City Odyssey

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    St. Louis Greek Festival: A Celebration of Culture

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    Event Flyer Courtesy of opastl.com

    Guess who went to the annual Greek Festival in my city and didn’t take any pictures? Me! I was so busy queuing up for delicious food that I totally forgot. I’m such a terrible blogger, but I’ll do better next time!

    I attended the 107th Annual Labor Day Greek Festival during Labor Day weekend with my partner. The festival took place from August 31st to September 2nd. It was held at the St. Nicholas Orthodox Greek Orthodox Church in the Central West End neighborhood. The festival is held annually to celebrate Greek culture. The weekend was filled with authentic Greek food, live music, dance performances and church tours. The event was free and open to the entire community.

    The weather was perfect for an outdoor festival. As soon as we arrived at the church, it was clear that the turnout was fantastic. People were everywhere, enjoying the festivities. We went to queue for food in a space that had been transformed into a food hall. We ordered lamb shank and pilaf (Greek-style braised lamb shank with special sauce served over rice pilaf). We also ordered a gyro sandwich, a Greek salad, Grecian fries, and spanakopita (a pastry made with sheets of filo dough layered with savory spinach and cheese filling).

    I was impressed by the young people who were helping with various tasks in the food hall. The hall was filled with different kinds of people and there was a strong sense of community. Everyone seemed to be having a good time, eating, drinking and chatting away. This is one of the reasons why I enjoy festivals and events. I like seeing people relaxed and having a good time.

    After we left the food hall, we attempted to tour the church. Unfortunately, we arrived a bit too late and the tours had already ended. We headed outside and soaked in the lively atmosphere and enjoyed the band playing vibrant Greek music. With America being such a melting pot, it is always a joy to experience and share in cultures that are different from our own.

    After enjoying the music and resisting the delicious aroma of the kebobs grilling nearby, it was time for us to leave. We decided to take a stroll to Forest Park across the road and found a shady spot near the lake. We enjoyed our delicious Greek food while relaxing and taking in the beautiful surroundings. It was the perfect way to end the day.

    What are some festivals or cultural events you have recently attended? I’d like to hear about them.

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    24 hours in Miami

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    Photo Credit: City Odyssey & Stic

    I did a bit of traveling during the first half of the year. In late February, I went to Miami to meet a dear friend who was stopping there on their way to Mexico. Having visited Miami twice before, I was excited to return and see how this trip would differ. Along with meeting my friend, some of my family members were also coming to Miami from another city, making it a mini family trip of sorts.

    I arrived late and settled in. We stayed right by the water at the Mondrian South Beach, and the views were amazing. We were close enough to the city to enjoy its vibrancy but far enough to experience some peace and quiet. Miami can get super busy at night with all the nightlife going on.

    The following day, we got ready and headed to brunch. We chose a restaurant called Salt Cafe Miami Beach, with an outdoor seating area right by one of the busy streets. Here, we listened to music and people-watched while enjoying our meal. I ordered a delicious Mediterranean omelet and a glass of orange juice.

    Photo Credit: City Odyssey

    After brunch, we headed to the bay and rented a yacht for a few hours to spend some time on the water. I love being on the water, and this was a fun, relaxing way to see the city. We spent the afternoon catching up with our friend, whom we hadn’t seen in over 15 years. It was great reminiscing about old memories.

    Photo Credit: City Odyssey

    When our time on the water came to an end, we returned to our hotel, which had an outdoor restaurant by the water. We took in the sights, chatted some more, and ordered an early dinner. We enjoyed an outdoor dinner at the Baia Beach Club.

    Photo Credit: City Odyssey

    After dinner, we headed upstairs to rest after an eventful day.

    The next morning, we drove around Little Havana before making our way to the airport. I said goodbye to my family and made my way to my gate. It was a sweet and short trip, but I’m glad I got the chance to see my friend and spend time with my family.

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    Topgolf St. Louis-Midtown Review

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    Photo Credit: Topgolf.com

    I recently visited the new Topgolf in St. Louis – Midtown with friends. This is the second Topgolf location to open in Missouri, with the first being in Chesterfield, Missouri, about 30 minutes away from St. Louis. The Midtown location is a perfect addition for those who live closer to the city.

    We had a midday reservation on a Saturday. Getting there was fairly easy, and I was pleasantly surprised to find ample parking. If you know anything about Topgolf, it tends to get rather busy on the weekends.

    Our check-in process was seamless, and we made our way to our reserved bay on the 3rd floor. Since it is summer, you could definitely feel the warm air in the bay area. The bay area is open on both ends, making it virtually impossible to have air-conditioning. However, there were some huge fans that kept us cool.

    The setup at Topgolf is fantastic, with each bay equipped with comfortable seating, a table, and a touchscreen monitor to track your scores. The golf balls are microchipped, so you can see exactly where your shots land on the screen. This makes it easy to keep track of your progress and adds a fun, competitive element to the game.

    Our waiter was pleasant and suggested some great options for shareable foods for groups. We ordered cheesy macaroni bites, wings, fries, chicken bacon ranch flatbread, and some drinks. The food was brought out on time, and everything tasted great. We played various games, including the classic Topgolf game where you aim for different targets to score points, and some of the more challenging games that test your accuracy and distance. The variety of games available ensures that everyone, regardless of skill level, can have a great time.

    We played golf for the duration of our two-hour reservation and really enjoyed the experience. It was nice to get a group of friends together for an afternoon of golf and food. The atmosphere was lively, with music playing in the background and other groups cheering each other on.

    When our reservation was up, we went to an indoor bar and seating area, which was much cooler. We sat there, cooled down, and chatted for a bit before heading out to the parking lot. It was a fun day, and I’d definitely recommend this location.

    Tips:

    1. Make sure you have a reservation, although walk-ins are welcome.
    2. During warmer months, try to schedule your reservation earlier in the day or late in the afternoon/evening when it’s cooler.
    3. You don’t need to be a pro to enjoy Topgolf. The games are designed to be fun for all skill levels.

    Address: 3201 Chouteau Ave, St. Louis, MO 63103

    Phone: (314) 333-0188

    Hours: Mon-Thurs: 9AM – 12AM, Fri-Sat: 9AM – 1AM, Sun: 9AM – 12AM

    Website: Golf, Party Venue, Sports Bar & Restaurant | Topgolf St. Louis – Midtown

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    Support Black-Owned Businesses in St. Louis for Black History Month

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    Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

    Editor’s note: ***This is a very belated Black History Month post **

    In honor of Black History month, it is only befitting that we highlight some black owned business in the St.Louis area. Black History month is celebrated in February in the United States. During this month, black heritage and contributions to society are celebrated.

    We compiled a short list of places to check out or support.

    1.The Drip Community CoffeeHouse

    Go for : the menu, good vibes, art, a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.

    Located : 3615 Potomac St, St. Louis, MO 63118

    Phone :(314) 312-6254

    Website: The Drip Community Coffeehouse 

    2.The Griot Museum of Black History

    Go for : a cultural education on black history, life- size wax figures, art and educational programs.

    Location : 2505 St Louis Ave, St. Louis, MO 63106

    Phone: (314) 241-7057

    Website: The Griot Museum

    3. Teatopia

    Go for : an extensive loose leaf tea selection, tea – infused smoothies and a therapeutic environment.

    Location : 2606 Cherokee Street, St Louis, Missouri 63118

    Phone:314) 553-9402

    Website : Brewing better lives one leaf at a time. | Teatopia (teatopiastl.com) 

    4.Expedition Subsahara

    Go for : Beautifully designed and handcrafted wares and support the diverse cultures of Africa.

    Location:830 Fee Fee Rd. Maryland Heights, MO 63043

    Website : Expedition Subsahara

    5.Coda’s Events

    Go for: Exquisite boutique services for weddings and event planning.

    Location: St. Louis & Melbourne, Australia

    Website: Coda’s Events

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    Celebrate Mother’s Day in Style in St. Louis!

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    Photo by George Dolgikh on Pexels.com

    Mother’s Day is swiftly approaching, and it’s the perfect time to show appreciation for the mothers and mother figures who enrich our lives. St. Louis is bustling with a variety of activities to make this day memorable. Here’s a curated list of events and experiences in the area:

    • Melting Pot: Indulge in a sweet experience filled with delicious cheese and chocolate fondue, along with fine drinks. Book here: Mother’s Day Dining
    • Flemmings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar: Enjoy a wonderful Mother’s Day 3 Course Lunch. Book here:  Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
    • Cardinals Nation: Make Mother’s Day a home run with a delightful brunch at Ballpark Village and a visit to the Cardinals Museum. Book here: Cardinals Nation
    • Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis Spa: Treat mom to a luxurious spa experience at The Four Seasons as a wonderful way to show your appreciation. Book here: Four Seasons St. Louis Spa
    • Sugar Creek Winery: Indulge in some fine wine and savor a tranquil winery experience this Mother’s Day, far from the city’s hustle and bustle. Book here: Sugar Creek Winery

    Whether you’re looking to enjoy a meal, explore new experiences, or simply spend quality time together, St. Louis has something special for every mom this Mother’s Day.

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    Sunday in Central West End

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    Sometimes, the most spontaneous days end up being the most fun. A few weekends ago, when the weather was just right, I decided to explore the Central West End (CWE). CWE is a lively neighborhood in St. Louis, Missouri, known for its historic charm, cultural institutions, and vibrant community. Here’s a glimpse of how my day unfolded:

    No day starts off perfectly without fueling up. So the first order of business was grabbing something to eat. My first stop was Kingside Diner, a charming chess-themed restaurant with an impressive menu. Luckily, I arrived before the late morning rush and secured a spot at the bar counter with a street view. There’s something fascinating about people-watching, isn’t there? From my perch, I observed the lively activity around me. For breakfast, I indulged in “The Three Piggies” which featured ham, bacon, sausage, two eggs, chipotle aioli, lettuce and tomato on a croissant, with a side of hash browns. 

    Three Little Piggies Photo Credit : City Odyssey

    When I was done with brunch, I strolled down Euclid Avenue toward Left Bank Books. This charming bookstore, one of the oldest and largest independently owned full-line bookstores in St. Louis, had me captivated by its extensive selection of books. Despite my eagerness to buy more books, I reminded myself of the unread books waiting at home. To show my support, I purchased bookmarks, a card game, and a St. Louis passport. The passport features popular area attractions and comes with stamps that you can place on the attractions that you have visited.So far, mine is halfway filled and I’m looking forward to collecting all the stamps.

    St. Louis Passport and Bookmarks Photo Credit : City Odyssey

    After leaving the bookstore, I strolled a short distance to the cluster of art galleries. Despite it being Sunday and the galleries shuttered, I couldn’t resist admiring the artwork through the windows. While I was “art gazing” at the Houska Gallery, I saw a note on the door saying to call or text a number for a viewing. Seizing the opportunity, I dialed the number, and to my delight, the owner, Charlie, responded. I was extremely thankful and felt special that I was given private access to the gallery. My little art loving heart was content! The exhibits, featuring works by St. Louis’s own Cbabi Bayoc  and Arkansas-based Zina Al-Shukri, were nothing short of spectacular. 

    Cbabi Bayoc Painting Photo Credit: City Odyssey
    Nah.Rosa Parks by Zina Al- Shukri Photo Credit:City Odyssey

    Following my departure from the gallery, I walked back up along Euclid Avenue and couldn’t pass up on the chance to grab some ice – cream from Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery. I tried the red velvet flavor, and it was so delicious. I sat by the window, savoring my ice-cream and people watching. When I was done, I decided to head home. It was quite literally one of the best Sundays I’ve had in a while. What started off as a spontaneous day, turned out to be adventurous and full of fun moments. Maybe I should do stuff like this more often, instead of dreading the end of the weekend.

    How do you spend your Sundays?

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    Hasan Minhaj – Off with His Head Tour – St. Louis Stop

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    Photo credit: Hasan Minhaj Facebook

    Last evening, I had the opportunity to attend Hasan Minhaj’s show at The Factory in Chesterfield, Missouri. Lately, I’ve been on a comedy kick, and this was the third show I’ve seen this year. While searching for local events, I was thrilled to find that Hasan was performing in the St. Louis area. I’ve enjoyed his work since “The Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj” and several of his Netflix specials.

    Getting to the venue was quite easy. I am familiar with the area, and it’s literally a straight shot from my home. Parking was aplenty, so that was a win! Don’t you hate when you go somewhere, and the parking situation is a mess? There were practically no lines, and I breezed through the check-in process.

    Brian Parise was the sole opening act, and although I wasn’t acquainted with his work, he did an excellent job setting the stage for the main event.

    As Hasan Minhaj took the stage, his presence was magnetic, immediately commanding the attention of the audience. With a mischievous grin, he greeted us, setting the tone for an evening filled with laughter and insight.

    “We’re gonna go crazy tonight!” Hasan exclaimed, his voice resonating through the venue.

    The crowd erupted into laughter, signaling the start of a comedic journey that would leave us in stitches. Hasan wasted no time delving into his signature blend of humor and social commentary, effortlessly navigating through topics as diverse as race, politics, history and family dynamics. He tested some fresh material that seemed to resonate well with the audience. He mentioned he will continue perfecting some of the new stuff, and it may make it into his next special. And yes, he addressed The New Yorker controversy in his trademark humorous style. If you’re unaware of what I’m talking about, a quick Google search will provide some context.

    At the show’s conclusion, Hasan expressed his gratitude to the attendees and revealed that St. Louis was a late addition to his tour itinerary. Overall, the performance was quite enjoyable, and I’m looking forward to his next special.

    Note: Guests were asked to secure their phones in Yondr pouches, which remained locked throughout the show. While we were allowed to keep the pouches with us, there were specific zones outside the main event area where phone usage was permitted. This might be something to keep in mind if you plan to attend a show.

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    Valentine’s Day Weekend Activities in St. Louis

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    This year’s Valentine’s Day lands on a Wednesday, which might not be the most convenient day for many. Weekdays come with their share of responsibilities—work, school, childcare, and more. Understandably, the options for celebrating on a Wednesday are somewhat limited. However, fear not! The weekend awaits, and it’s the perfect time to create memorable moments with your loved one(s). Here are some artsy, family -friendly and entertaining suggestions for your Valentine’s weekend:

    1. Saint Louis Ballet – LOVEX3 

    Photo Credit: Saint Louis Ballet

    Calling all ballet enthusiasts! The St. Louis Ballet has something special in store for Valentine’s weekend. Prepare to be enchanted by a captivating lineup of performances that celebrate love and the mesmerizing fusion of music and movement. 🩰

    Dates : February 16 at 7:30pm, February 17 at 3:00pm & 7:30pm, February 18 at 3:00pm

    Venue : Kirkwood Performing Arts Center 210 East Monroe Avenue, Kirkwood, MO 63122

    Website: Saint Louis Ballet | LOVEX3 (stlouisballet.org)

    Phone: 314-822-5813

    2. Jazz St.Louis

    Photo Credit : Jazz St.Louis

    If you’re in the mood for a delightful evening of jazz music, I highly recommend checking out Jazz St. Louis. The talented Camille Thurman will be gracing the stage alongside the Darrell Green Quartet from February 16th to February 18th. Tickets are selling like hotcakes, so make sure to secure yours for one of these dates before they vanish into thin air! 🎶🎷

    Dates : February 14 – 18

    Venue : The Harold & Dorothy Steward Center for Jazz 

    3536 Washington Avenue St.Louis, MO 63103

    Website : Jazz St.Louis 

    Phone : 314-571-6000

    3. City Museum – Tunnel of Love

    Photo Credit : Tunnel of Love – City Museum

    The museum is currently hosting a month-long exhibit dedicated to love. Among its enchanting features, the heart-shaped tunnel stands out as a delightful spot for lovers, families, and friends alike. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand with your sweetheart, sharing laughter with family members, or creating cherished memories with friends, this tunnel invites you to step into a world where love takes center stage. ❤️🌟

    Dates : February 8 – 29

    Venue : City Museum  750 North 16th Street, St. Louis, MO 63103

    Website : Tunnel of Love – City Museum

    Phone: 314-231-2489 

    4. Saint Louis Art Museum  Wee Weekend: Love is in the Air

    Photo Credit : Saint Louis Art Museum Facebook

    The museum is organizing a delightful family-friendly program tailored for young children. This engaging program aims to immerse kids in the world of art, storytelling, and play. Best of all, it’s free of charge, but registration is necessary. Don’t miss out on this enriching experience! 🎨📚

    Dates: February 17

    Venue : Saint Louis Art Museum One Fine Arts Dr, St. Louis, MO 63110 United States

    Website : Wee Weekend: Love is in the Air – Saint Louis Art Museum (slam.org)

    Phone : 314 -721- 0072

    5. Ice Skating at Steinberg Skating Rink ( Forest Park)

    Photo Credit : Steinberg Skating Rink (steinbergrink.com)

    Lastly, during this winter season, don’t miss the chance to glide gracefully across the ice at Steinberg Skating Rink. Whether you’re young or young at heart, with a partner or a group of friends, ice-skating is an activity that brings joy to all. ⛸️❄️

    Dates : November 17, 2023 – March 1, 2024

    Venue : Steinberg Skating Rink 400 Jefferson Drive,St. Louis, MO 63110

    Website :Steinberg Skating Rink (steinbergrink.com)

    Phone: 314-361-0613

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    5 Amazing Valentine’s Day Dinner Specials in St. Louis

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    Whether it’s your first or your tenth Valentine’s Day with your partner, you probably want to make it a memorable and special occasion. But finding the perfect place to go can be challenging, especially when the weather is chilly in the St.Louis area. Don’t worry, though, there are still plenty of things to do and places to see.

    To help you out, here are 5 restaurants that you might want to consider for Valentine’s Day.

    1. Casa Don Alfonso 

    Photo Credit : Casa Don Alfonso

    If you are looking for a cozy and classy place to savor the flavors of Italy, Cas Don Alfonso is the perfect choice. This restaurant is nestled inside the Ritz Carlton Hotel in the heart of Clayton Business District. For Valentine’s Day, Cas Don Alfonso offers a special Prixe Dinner that features a four-course menu of exquisite dishes. To make a reservation, you can visit their website or call 3147191496. The address is 100 Carondelet Plaza, Clayton, MO 63105.

    2. Eleven Eleven Mississippi 

    Photo Credit: Eleven Eleven Mississippi

    Contrary to what the name suggests, this is not a Southern restaurant. This restaurant specializes in a fusion of Tuscan and Californian cuisine. The restaurant, situated in the Lafayette Square neighborhood, prepares its food from scratch and is a well-known place in the St.Louis area. To book a table, you can go to their website or call 314 241 9999. The address is 1111 Mississippi St. Louis, MO 63104.

    3. Ruth’s Chris Steak House 

    Photo Credit: Ruth’s Chris Steak House St.Louis

    If you are looking for a delicious steak, Ruth’s Chris is the perfect choice. It is located on the first floor of the Hyatt, overlooking the Gateway National Park. You will enjoy the ambiance and the cuisine, inspired by New Orleans flavors. To book your table, click here or call (314) 259-3200. The address is 315 Chestnut Street, St. Louis, MO 63102.

    4. Cafe La Vie

    Photo Credit : Café La Vie St.Louis 

    Enjoy a romantic Valentine’s dinner at this French inspired restaurant inside Le Meridien Hotel in Clayton. They have a special Pre -Fixe Menu for the occasion. To book your table, click here or dial (314) 836-0400 . The restaurant is located at 7730 Bonhomme Ave, Saint Louis, MO.

    5. Tree House Restaurant

    Photo Credit:Tree House Stl
    Enjoy a vegan and vegetarian feast at the Tree House Restaurant on Valentine’s Day. You can treat yourself and your loved one to a delicious 6 course menu prepared by the chef. To book your table, visit their website or call (314) 696-2100. The restaurant is at 3177 South Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63118. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate with plant-based cuisine. 🌱

  • Hello!

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    Hello!

    Hello and welcome to City Odyssey, the blog where I share my passion for exploring the world and having fun along the way. My name is KC and I’m an adventurer who loves to try new things. I started this blog to inspire others to live more adventurously.

    On this blog, you will find:

    • Travel guides and tips for various destinations
    • Restaurant reviews and recommendations
    • Hidden gems and fun things to do
    • Advice and resources for planning your own adventures
    • And much more!

    I hope you will join me on this journey and discover the amazing places and experiences that the world has to offer. Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or a beginner, there is always something new to learn and explore. Adventure is not a destination, it’s a way of life.

    Thank you for stopping by and I hope to see you again soon. Feel free to leave a comment, ask a question, or share your own adventure stories. I would love to hear from you and connect with you.

    Happy adventuring!

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