Will Smith, the developer behind City Foundry STL and one of the key voices in St. Louis’ urban revitalization, said food has always been central to his story, and we spoke extensively about it during his guest appearance on The Sauce podcast this week.
“My wife and I met each other during the pandemic when you only could spend time with a limited amount of people,” Smith said. “We both have traveled extensively (she was a flight attendant) and have always appreciated food and trying new cuisines.”
That perspective grew stronger while building partnerships for the Foundry’s food hall, where he sampled concepts from across the city. “When we were building our food hall partnerships, I had the pleasure of trying a lot of different concepts and exploring St. Louis’ incredible food scene. While it is difficult to pick 5 ‘Top’ spots, I do have 5 spots that I love.”
Aya Sofia
“This has been my wife’s and my anniversary destination for years. We love the food, the warmth, and the ambiance. Rarely do we have room for dessert, though sometimes we make space at Aya Sofia or cross the street to Ted Drewes. Go-to dish: Musakka.”
6671 Chippewa St., St. Louis, 314.645.9919, ayasofiacuisine.com
Egg
“When I lived in Midtown during the pandemic, Egg was one of the few places open within walking distance. We went almost every Saturday for breakfast and a cappuccino and got to know the owner along the way. Go-to dish: Corn Bread Benedict.”
3100 Locust St., St. Louis; 2200 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, eggstl.com
Fritanga Nicaraguan Cuisine
“I don’t think I’d had Nicaraguan cuisine until going to Fritanga. The best hospitality experiences exceed expectations, and this spot absolutely does. Go-to dish: Pork Conoa de Maduro.”
2208 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, fritangastl.com
Grand Pied
“One of my go-to brunch spots, especially before or after Tower Grove Farmers’ Market. I always bring as many friends as possible to share more plates. Go-to dish: Pancakes and Jam.”
3137 Morgan Ford Road, St. Louis, grandpied.com
Mi Ranchito
“It feels a little like a guilty pleasure, but it’s simply delicious and affordable. You can linger for hours or grab something quick. Go-to dish: Burrito California.”
887 Kingsland Ave., St. Louis, mi-ranchito-stl.com
This article appears in August 2025.