Deep-fried, ground-beef-stuffed pillows of pasta – need we say more?
Toasted ravioli, or t-ravs in the local vernacular, are quintessential St. Louis bar food. For Nick Lammering, they’re also the centerpiece of his game-day getup.
Known around town as T-Rav Man, Lammering wears a toasted ravioli hat fashioned by his partner to every St. Louis CITY SC game. Once he settles his face into the center of the oversized snack, he’s ready for a day of soccer, team spirit and St. Louis pride.
So, what, exactly, does match day at Energizer Park look like for T-Rav Man? Lammering takes us through the ritual.
“My days start with a marinara protein shake, which fuels my run to The Hill, where I check in on all my brothers and sisters at Charlie Gitto’s, Mama’s on The Hill and STL Toasted. If you’ve never tried toasted ravioli, now’s your chance. A St. Louis staple, the crispy, meat-filled pillows of pasta are fried to perfection. They’re humble, delicious and worthy of mascot status.
Before an evening match, I recommend exploring more of our neighborhoods. South Grand Boulevard is one of the city’s best dining destinations, while Soulard, The Grove, Webster Groves and Kirkwood all have the kind of energy that will get you ready for kickoff.
Gameday at Energizer Park is unforgettable. Arrive early to watch our boisterous supporter groups – the Saint Louligans, Saint Louis City Punks, STL Santos and Fleur de Noise – march into the stadium with flags, drums and plenty of fanfare. I’m their biggest fan – and not just because they made a chant about me. “Oh, St. Louis is wonderful. It’s the home of the toasted ravioli!”
With time before the match, eat your way around St. Louis. From beer and wine to burgers and hot dogs, the entire culinary program at Energizer Park is locally driven. Anthonino’s Taverna is my go-to food stall, but plenty of fans swear by Balkan Treat Box, Biscuit Town, Olive + Oak, Pappy’s Smokehouse, Seoul Taco and Taco Buddha.
When the action on the pitch begins, the stadium reaches a whole new decibel level: Cheers rise, scarves fly and even a walking ravioli can’t help but get goosebumps.
Want to catch a match outside the stadium? Head to 4 Hands at The District. The brewery overlooks a sun-soaked courtyard with open-air pavilions, a turf viewing field and a massive 20-by-11-foot LED screen that makes our players look even better than they already do.
Whether you’re inside Energizer Park or watching from Chesterfield, you’ll quickly learn two things about St. Louis: We love soccer, and we’ll find a way to serve toasted ravioli with just about anything.”
