Travelers Culinary Pilgrimage: St.Louis BBQ @ Salt + Smoke

Every culinary journey is, at its core, a search for the elusive holy grail – perfection, innovation and great service. Its about finding those places where tradition meets creativity, where local flavors are elevated with out loosing their soul. In St Louis that journey led me to Salt + Smoke, a standout in the city’s ball park village district and a must. Another xcellent recommendation from Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.

When in St. Louis, barbecue isn’t just a meal – its a culture and rite of passage. My order: half rack of ribs slathered in Salt + Smoke spicy sauce, side of vinegar based coleslaw, pickles, and deep flavored brisket chili. Each bite a kin to a jazz melody – listening and playing off each other. Each morsel a testament to the craft of slow-smoked meats, but the revelation of the meal was something unexpected- the popover.

A perfect popover is the mark of culinary basics done well. Get is right, and it signals a kitchen that understands the fundamentals of great cooking. This one is golden and crisp on the outside, impossibly airy on the inside, and a perfect companion to taste all the house sauces offered.

Salt + Smoke didn’t just serve up excellent barbecue – it captured the spirit of the city that takes its food seriously. A meal here is more than just a stop on culinary adventure; its a moment of discovery, proving once again the best adventures are the ones that suprise and delight.