SLM contributor Joe Bonwich weighs in on local food events, happenings, and dining news of note. Look for his observations every other week in On the Burner, SLM’s dining e-newsletter.
Here, Kitty
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Heads up, fanboys, fangirls, cosplayers, Hello Kitty fans—oh, and lovers of elaborate sweets: The Hello Kitty Cafe Food Truck (yes, there is such a thing, one that cruises the eastern U.S. and one that cruises the west) will hit the Saint Louis Galleria on Saturday, June 17, from 10 a.m.–8 p.m. We get the east version, which will be parked near to Macy’s serving (what else?) “supercute” treats. Hello Kitty Café warns, however, that supplies are limited, so don’t be late.
Blithe Spirits
If you’re unaware of the wide range of hooch now being produced in Missouri, then stop by the Clayton location of The Wine and Cheese Place (7435 Forsyth) between 4 and 7 p.m. Friday, June 16, for a Missouri Craft Spirits Tasting Open House. Some of the featured products are from Still630, Cardinal Sin, and The Big O. Best of all, it’s free. The Ballwin location of The Wine and Cheese Place (14748 Clayton) also has announced the permanent installation of a whiskey-tasting bar, including by-the-glass offerings of many rare expressions.
Recurring Rant
Every now and then this needs to be repeated, because so many restaurants just can’t seem to get it right: Red wine should be served cool. There are disputes among wine twinks about what “cool” means, but it’s definitely below room temperature, and it sure as heck ain’t the ambient temperature on a patio. (Here’s one expert opinion, which also includes temps for white wines.) My latest run-in with this was at a place that successfully tempted me with $40–$50 per bottle Napa cabs in an affordable flight—but then brought them out, well, tepid.
