big congrats
St. Louis’ food scene continues to gain notoriety, thanks to our innovative chefs and restaurateurs. Vicia, opened by Michael and Tara Gallina in March in the Cortex, was recognized as one of the Best Restaurants of 2017 by Eater. Only 12 of the hottest, most original spots were selected from the entire country! … Nixta, the vision of Ben Poremba, earned major kudos as well, being named one of Bon Appetit’s 50 Best New Restaurants in America for the year. It was included on the esteemed list as one of the country’s premier places for modern Mexican cuisine. Poremba received the same accolade for Olio and Elaia in 2013.

five years young
It’s history in the making! On Sept. 16, Still 630 Distillery will release the first-ever, 5-year-old whiskey made in Missouri. The special edition, barrel-strength RallyPoint rye whiskey was one of owner David Weglarz’S first barrels when he started in 2012.

brewing guru
Emily Parker, head of brewing operations for Schlafly Beer, beat the odds to be named one of Wine Enthusiast’s 40 under 40 Tastemakers. The list, which gives a nod to innovators who are shaping the future of alcohol, rarely recognizes beer professionals. Parker, who is only 30, started with Schlafly as a lab intern six years ago. Now, she leads a team that brews more than 70 beers.

menu masters
The culinary team of the Chefs de Cuisine Association of St. Louis brought home a big win. The group of five students battled against four other teams in Orlando, Florida, to win the American Culinary Federation’s Student Team National Championship. The two-part competition included preparations for a cold-food buffet platter and four-course menu.

more ‘seoul’ in st. louis 
Seoul Taco owner and Chesterfield native David Choi has announced the fifth location of his popular Korean-influenced Mexican restaurant at 46 Four Seasons Shopping Center in Chesterfield, with plans to open late fall. … Seoul Garden just celebrated a grand opening of its second location in Creve Coeur (the original is in St. Ann). This spot focuses on the lunch crowd and offers an entire menu section dedicated to BiBamBap.