Photograph by Katherine Bish
When a group of local firefighters banded together to discuss ways they could support two favorite charities (The BackStoppers and Missouri Children’s Burn Camp), starting a restaurant was not high on the list. Yet it made the most sense: Their culinary skills are legendary, serving the public (and serving it well) is part of their DNA, and out-of-service fire equipment makes for great conversation starters. A red, cast-iron hydrant serves as the beer tap; fire helmets are pendant lights; and yes, that would be a rescue net, not a trampoline. Like a bona fide firehouse, Lafayette will serve three squares a day, seven days a week. We’re betting you’ll enjoy the pepperoni– and Cajun roast beef–stuffed State Street Meatloaf (created in the city’s Southern state–named street firehouses) so much, you’ll toss a few charitable dollars into the antique call box, for which you’re allowed a few tugs on the ol’ fire bell. For a big donation? Thankfully, there are no horns or sirens.
1801 Park
Lafayette Square
Phone: 314-621-5001
Website: lafayettefirecompany.com
Hours: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily
