Angela Baker and Jennedy Lombard, who both call Creve Coeur home, co-wrote this post.
Angela: When I moved to the Creve Coeur area (10 years ago this month actually), I was looking for an affordable starter home while staying as close to the central corridor as possible, and Creve Coeur certainly delivered. For nights out and shopping, I usually found myself headed back to my go-to’s: Clayton, South City, or Central West End. But, over the years, I’ve come to appreciate some of what’s available in my own backyard.
Jennedy: I grew up in Creve Coeur! I never realized that many of the neighborhood staples that I frequented as a kid are really special jewels in the St. Louis area. Rediscovering my hometown and moving back there as an adult with two kids has been eye-opening! We’re lucky to have such great options in our area–and a love/hate relationship with Olive Blvd.
Here is a round-up of our favorites in the area!
A: I know St Louisans love their Panera, but the best bagels in the area are from the Bagel Factory. Be prepared to stand in line on a weekend morning, but I promise it’s worth it. The bagels are fresh, soft, and only available until they run out. Don’t forget to bring cash.
A: One of my favorite spots for a quick takeaway lunch is Pita Plus. Don’t be deterred by the location in a strip mall. The pita is always soft and fresh, and the falafel are crisp and flavorful. If you save room for dessert, the baklava is outstanding.
A: When I’m sick, forget chicken soup. There’s nothing like pho for comfort food. Creve Coeur was beyond excited to get our very own Nudo location. Their unique takes on pho, ramen, and even bahn mi make this another lunch favorite. Pro tip: you definitely want to try a spring roll.
J: La Bonne Bouche – Growing up, this was a “fancy” French place that we would go to for the best croissants and specialty French desserts. Now, it is a great breakfast option and has the most amazing cakes, tarts, macarons, and specialty gift items. This a great place to get dessert for a special occasion and a wonderful place for small children to pick out an extra special treat.
J: Gioia’s Deli – You may have been to this specialty deli on The Hill, and I am thrilled to have recently discovered them in the heart of Creve Coeur! The bread and ingredients are fresh and of high quality. They have one of my favorite sandwiches in the city! Pro Tip: Order ahead and pick up at the counter for a speedy lunch option. Get a side of the St. Louis original Red Hot Riplets potato chips.
J: Seoul Garden Korean BBQ – Have you ever tried Korean BBQ? This is one of the best places around town for the tableside, DIY Korean BBQ experience. It’s great for a group dining experience— the Kimchi is authentic, and the service is top-notch.
A: I’m something of a frozen custard connoisseur, and to me, the benchmark of a custard establishment is the quality of their turtle sundae. In Creve Coeur, the go-to custard shop is Silky’s. I particularly appreciate that they offer a low-fat custard option that’s as creamy and rich as the original.
J: 100% agree! Silky’s is my favorite! The Hawaiian Concrete has been a special occasion staple my entire life!
A: I’ve been making the trip to Guy & Carmelo’s Salon for my stylist Amy Light since before I lived out here. She has kept me looking fashionable and my grays covered for over a decade. The salon is sleek and fully stocked while maintaining a casual, laid-back vibe.
A: For esthetician services, I head to Studio Branca. Even when I’m just stopping in for a quick brow wax, the atmosphere is so chill and relaxing I leave feeling like I’ve had a whole day at the spa. Meghan Wilson is my go-to for helping me try to realize my Kardashian eyebrow dreams.
J: Top Nails in Fernwood Plaza- I can’t give enough love to my neighborhood Nail Salon that I’ve gone to for over ten years. Patty & Sonny, the owners, make you feel like family and provide fantastic, high-quality service! Patty is the only person who I allow to tame these eyebrows!
A: Parks were not on my radar when I moved to Creve Coeur, but that quickly changed when my children were born. A family favorite for a Sunday morning is Millennium Park. It offers a good mix of clean, well-cared-for equipment for little kids as well as their older siblings. We especially enjoy the free splash pad during the summer months.
J: Veneable Park – This park is a true hidden gem tucked in a residential neighborhood off of Spoede Rd. It has two playgrounds, a shelter, tennis courts, a soccer field, a walking path, and restrooms! I love to gaze at some of the remaining mid-century homes surrounding the park, as well.
J: Miss Kelly’s Gym – at Miss Kelly’s Gym, you can sign up for Dance and Gymnastics classes and have your children, 10 months- 12 years, participate in camps during summer and breaks. They even have a Parent’s Night Out once a month, where you can drop your kids off for a few hours in the evening to play! My son enjoyed their summer camp one year; he got to safely explore, jump and dance in a safe environment with enthusiastic teachers! Bonus: It’s right next door to Silky’s frozen custard (listed above).
A: The last thing I have the wherewithal to do on a Saturday morning is trek down to Soulard or Tower Grove Park. No problem. I can get all the seasonal fruit and vegetables I need at the Creve Coeur Farmer’s Market from 8-12 on Saturday mornings, May through October. It’s a small market but has a good variety to choose from.
A: If you need your funnel cake fix this month (or maybe that’s just me), check out our annual Creve Coeur Days festival from June 20-23rd on the grounds of De Smet High School. It offers a full carnival midway, games, food, and entertainment. Maybe next year, when the pandemic is further in the rearview mirror, I’ll sign up for the 5k fun run.
J: Creve Coeur Park is a popular location to gather for various events. Rowing & Sailing competitions on the lake, 5K runs for charity, and renting kayaks and multicycles are all special offerings at this St. Louis County Park. There is even a GO APE Ropes Course located at the top of the park! This is a beautiful oasis in our bustling suburb.
I hope these suggestions draw you to a new place in Creve Coeur! It is a diverse and happening area that we are happy to call home.
