On this week’s episode of The Sauce podcast, host Lauren Healey sits down with Danni Eickenhorst, CEO of HuSTL Hospitality and co-owner of some of St. Louis’ most beloved restaurants, including Steve’s Hot Dogs, Steve’s Meltdown at City Foundry STL, and iconic The Fountain on Locust.
Danni shares how an unexpected partnership with musician and restaurateur Steve Ewing helped save Steve’s Hot Dogs from closing and led to a new chapter for the brand. From simplifying menus and building stronger teams to expanding into new locations and partnerships, Danni explains how HuSTL Hospitality is rethinking what it means to run a restaurant in today’s challenging industry.
The conversation also dives into Danni’s background in nonprofit leadership and crisis response, including her experience working on disaster recovery after the 2011 Joplin Tornado and how those skills helped her lead community relief efforts when a tornado impacted parts of St. Louis near their restaurants.
Danni also discusses the realities of running restaurants today — from rising costs and unpredictable weather to shifting customer habits — and how her team is adapting by expanding into catering, festivals, food trucks, and partnerships across the region.
From loaded hot dogs and smash burgers to art deco dining rooms and ice cream martinis, this episode highlights the creativity, resilience, and community spirit behind some of St. Louis’ most recognizable dining spots.
In this episode:
- Saving Steve’s Hot Dogs and partnering with Steve Ewing
- Taking over the iconic The Fountain on Locust
- Building the restaurant group HuSTL Hospitality
- How Danni’s nonprofit background shaped her leadership style
- Supporting the St. Louis community during disaster recovery
- Expanding into catering, festivals, and a new Steve’s Hot Dogs food truck
- Favorite menu items, cocktails, and local restaurants
Come for the hospitality insights. Stay for the stories behind the restaurants that help define St. Louis’ dining scene.
Presented by SWADE Dispensary, with 11 locations across Missouri. Learn more about their Passport Membership program at swadecannabis.com. Our other podcast sponsors are 4 Hands Brewing Co. and LHM.