From the ruins of its past life, Washington Avenue has been resurrected to become one of the trendiest and hottest spots in St. Louis.

After over $100 million in renovations, this once desolate street has become the perfect combination of modern chic meets classic 19^th century architecture lined with beautiful lofts, eclectic boutiques and restaurants and exciting nightlife.

Current Trends

Let your taste buds delight with dishes like creole lobster and pulled Korean BBQ pork at Mosaic Modern Fusion Restaurant & Lounge which was recently named “Best New Restaurant and Best Fusion” by the River Front Times and Sauce Magazine. Or stop by the Lucas Park Grille, a casually elegant Wash Ave. spot for some New American cuisine and an incomparable wine selection of over 300 bottles.

If you’re in the mood to play, the Flamingo Bowl offers a variety of signature cocktails, pizza, sandwiches and more while you bowl a few frames in an upscale nightclub setting. The Jive & Wail offers great live music in a fun sing-a-long venue named “St. Louis’ Best Piano Bar” and “Best Nightlife Spot” in 2011.

For the ultimate shopping spree, check out Beverly’s Hill for the latest in women’s loungewear, swimwear and intimates, and the fellows can stop by Boxers for an extensive collection of men’s underwear, athletics and accessories. When you’re on the go downtown and just need the essentials CeCi is your one stop shop for unique souvenirs, wearable art and eclectic jewelry and bags.

New Developments

There’s plenty more in the works downtown, including the Mercantile Exchange. Opening Summer 2012, this mega complex will feature hospitality and residential living as well as exciting entertainment, dining and retail such as Macy’s, a luxury movie theater and much more!

Also included, what was once the Grand Leader department store in 1906 and then later the Dillards building, a historic landmark is now reemerging as The Laurel, an inspiring retail, entertainment and residential complex at the heart of downtown St. Louis.

For more information on downtown St. Louis visit http://explorestlouis.com/conventionneighborhood/.

Get ready for the 7^th annual Downtown Restaurant Week in St. Louis (Aug. 22-Aug. 28). With over 26 participating restaurants, there will be a variety of delicious choices for the 19,000 diners expected to show. Space is limited, so book your reservations early!

The Festival of Nations is sure to expand your horizons (Aug. 27-28) with a diverse palette of ethic food and an international market, in addition to music, dancing and other educational exhibits on display at Tower Grove Park.

That’s not the only festival afoot, stop by the Japanese and Greek Festivals happening Sept. 3 through 5 at Missouri Botanical Garden and St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox church, respectively. There is sure to be plenty of authentic national cuisine and other fun, culturally rich activities as well!

Later in September will be the St. Louis Hispanic Festival. Visit the Soldier’s Memorial Plaza Downtown for some arts and crafts, Latino bands, and of course, lots of delicious Hispanic dining!

And last but not least, don’t miss the award-winning Taste of St. Louis festival downtown Sept. 23-25. This event is a celebration of food, art, music and culture featuring a Chef Battle Royale Culinary Competition, Sauce Magazine’s Restaurant Row, art & wine walk, kid’s kitchen and much more!

And don’t miss a chance to be part of Dine Out Missouri the whole month of October! Save your receipts at participating restaurants and if you spend $200 or more, you can earn a $25 gift certificate at any Missouri Restaurant Association Member! Along with receiving a free $25 gift certificate in exchange for the accumulation of $200 worth of receipts from participating restaurants, you will be entered for a chance to win one of five $100 gift cards from Discover

Check out our calendar section for an up-to-date listing of the Lou’s most flavorful activities!