The first episode of The Sauce podcast relaunch features Sauce executive editor and podcast host Lauren Healey chatting with acclaimed restaurateur Ben Poremba to talk about the roots of his culinary journey, how his heritage shapes his cooking and what’s new at Bengelina Hospitality Group. We also delve into some of the struggles of being a restaurant owner, including what it was like during the May 16 tornado that damaged some of his businesses, as well as some feel-good moments that made him sure he’s in the right profession.
Ben also shares three of his picks from his top 10 restaurants in St. Louis, just enough to whet your appetite before we post the full list on Wednesday, Aug. 20, at saucemagazine.com.
You can watch the video on YouTube, and listen on all your favorite streaming platforms, including Spotify. New episodes drop every Tuesday, so make sure you tune in.
This article appears in August 2025.