MICRORANT
May We Suggest…Altoids?
If a server is allowed to take a cigarette break, proper hygiene should be enforced. If it were our restaurant, we’d provide complimentary Purell Wipes, a spray bottle of Febreeze, some innocuous cologne, and a bottomless tin of Altoids. Too extravagant, you say? Maybe. The alternative is to 86 smoking during service hours. How’s that for us backing into a suggestion?
INSIDER TIP
Shhh! There's a Secret Menu at Robust
A little bird told us (quietly) about a new innovation at Robust: a three-item Secret Menu, available only via the Robust Wine Bar app. Designed so Robust's repeat and loyal customers have more reason to remain so, the dishes will change on a regular basis (we favor the Three Piggy Pie, with prosciutto, bacon, salami, over fig jam with chili flakes and smoked mozz). You won't find these items on Robust's website, on Facebook, Twitter, or anywhere on social media, and no secret handshake is required. Simply download the app and whisper your order. 227 W. Lockwood, 314-963-0033; 635 Washington, 314-287-6300.
HOT SPOT
Hot on the (Wine) Trail
As St. Louis gets its first taste of fall weather, our thoughts turn to weekend getaways…in wine country. September is grape harvest time, the ideal month to investigate one of Missouri’s 120 wineries and 10 (yes, TEN!) wine trails, each with its own personality. Several Missouri wines received gold medals at wine competitions in 2015: the 2013 Cynthiana, Friendship School Red, and Friendship School White from St. James Winery; the Vignoles from Blumenhof Winery (“The Most Awarded All Missouri Winery”); Estate Bottled Vignoles and Estate Bottled Vintage Port, from Augusta Winery (complete list of awards here). Need another reason to raise a glass? September is also Missouri Wine Month. missouriwine.org
Follow George on Twitter @stlmag_dining or send him an email at gmahe@stlmag.com. For more from St. Louis Magazine, subscribe or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
