The Scoop: Edibles & Essentials to open in St. Louis Hills

    St. Louis Hills will soon see the opening of Edibles & Essentials, a counter service cafe and market at 5815 Hampton Ave. Chef-owner Matthew Borchardt said the 1,600-square-foot space will include an artisan market and a counter-service cafe showcasing dishes from around the world. Borchardt most recently served as a consulting chef for Taze Mediterranean Street Food, along with previous roles at Cafe Provencal, Frazer’s Restaurant & Lounge and a program director position at L’Ecole Culinaire. For his first independent venture, Borchard is opening his shop on home turf. “My wife and I met as next-door neighbors in Clifton Heights. My parents’ house was in the Lindenwood Park area right up the street from Mom’s Deli. I love the St. Louis Hills area,” Borchardt said. On the market side, Edibles & Essentials will offer a variety of imported and locally sourced goods including oils and vinegars, breads, cheeses, wine and spirits, spices, cured meats, cookbooks, cookware, kitchen utensils and kitchen gadgets. A small butcher counter will also feature a selection of hand-cut steaks, chops and seafood. The cafe will feature globally inspired cuisine and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Standard menu items will include small plates like french fries, sauteed spinach or crab cakes and larger entrees such as a roasted pork sandwich and grilled meats. The menu will also feature charcuterie boards paired with jams, jellies, cheeses, pickles and breads. Both international and local bottled brews and wines by the glass or bottle will also be available for customers. Borchardt hopes to seat 20 inside and an additional 30 under a covered courtyard.