This week on the Sauce podcast: Hidden Gem, vegan cafes and where we'll be eating in 2024

This week on the Sauce podcast, Michelle and Meera discuss Hidden Gem, the new "disco dive bar" in Midtown St. Louis. Hidden Gem’s inclusive attitude and affection for glitter were the initial draw, but drinks like Barbie With A Buzz Cut – their take on an espresso martini with reposado tequila – and the charming Boot Scootin’ Boogie, a beer served in a boot-shaped glass with an accompanying shot, prove that this bar is much more than an aesthetic treat.

They also discuss two vegan spots, South City stalwart SweetArt and the newly-opened Looking Meadow Cafe in Maplewood. At SweetArt, they chat about iconic vegan desserts like The Maine Event and their fudgy vegan brownie. From Looking Meadow Cafe, the biscuits and gravy and garlicky quiche cups were standouts. The conversation also takes in several forthcoming spots Meera and Michelle are looking forward to trying in the new year, including Brasas in the Delmar Loop, Taqueria Morita‘s permanent location in the Central West End, and Telva at the Ridge in Webster Groves.

Click here to listen to this week's episode of the Sauce podcast, and be sure to check out the previous episodes as well.