A-List Readers’ Choice Awards 2024
We are pleased to announce the honorees of this year’s A-List Readers’ Choice Awards, an annual celebration of the region’s finest, as voted on by YOU! We send our appreciation to the 52,000+ people who weighed in the poll. Congratulations to all winners and finalists! Pick up the A-List edition of St. Louis Magazine on newsstands in September, or get early access here.
Note: The A-List Readers’ Choice Poll results are based 100 percent on the public’s nominations and votes. Being an advertiser/partner does not guarantee a spot as a winner or finalist. Finalists are listed in alphabetical order.
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Arts & Entertainment / Automotive / Beauty / Food & Drink / Health & Wellness / Home & Garden / Shopping & Services / Weddings / EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS / 2023 A-LIST AWARDS
Arts & Entertainment
The Factory (Best Live Music Venue)
Art Event
Winner
Art in Bloom: The Saint Louis Art Museum’s popular event merges flowers and fine art, as local floral designers showcase their skills by creating artistic floral designs that nod to select artworks in the museum’s collection.
Finalists
Saint Louis Art Fair
Webster Arts Fair
Art Gallery
Winner
Soulard Art Gallery: The co-op art gallery displays a variety of works in various mediums from 14 resident artists. Its latest juried exhibition, in cooperation with Stray Rescue of St. Louis, included animal-inspired artwork.
Finalists
Green Door Art Gallery
St. Louis Artists’ Guild
Art Museum
Winner
Saint Louis Art Museum: With free daily admission, the museum is a powerful force in making art accessible and informative for all. Current exhibits feature Spanish colonial art and expressionist paintings, and highlighted artists include modernist Romare Bearden and Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, an Indigenous contemporary visual artist.
Finalists
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
Pulitzer Arts Foundation
Author
Winner
Micheal Anderson: The beloved children’s author published her third book in the Zoey Lyndon series, Zoey Lyndon’s Misadventures at Camp, in 2022. Anderson’s books feature a young, Black female protagonist with a love for STEM.
Finalists
Cynthia Gagen
DeJuan Strickland
Band (Cover)
Winner
Zero to Ninety: Lovers of electric guitars and smashing drums can count on Zero to Ninety to satisfy their ’90s alternative rock cravings. From Nirvana and Pearl Jam to Audioslave and Green Day, the band has the hits covered.
Finalists
Hellen Back STL
Top GunZ
Band (Original)
Winner
Russo & Co.: This St. Charles–based band blends country and Americana influences. Frontman Anthony Russo can even tap-dance.
Finalists
Arkangela
Freedom Man
Blog
Winner
ReviewSTL: The site specializes in entertainment: music, sports, theater, movies, and video games, and posts photos of concerts and games across the region.
Finalists
The Newlywed Chefs
St. Louis Moms
Blues Player
Winner
Jordan Binnington: The goalie continues to be a fan favorite, years after the Blues hoisted the Stanley Cup. Today, Binnington remains among the league’s top goalies, maintaining a high save percentage despite the team’s ups and downs.
Finalists
Brayden Schenn
Colton Parayko
Cardinals Player
Winner
Matt Carpenter: Carp made his return to the team in 2024, after spending the past two seasons with the Yankees and Padres. In a statement announcing the one-year deal, Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak said, “We are excited to have his leadership and experience back in a Cardinals uniform.”
Finalists
Lars Nootbaar
Nolan Arenado
Casino
Winner
Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles: With a luxury spa, 400 suites, a variety of onsite restaurants, and a sprawling 130,000-square-foot casino, the possibilities are endless at Ameristar.
Finalists
Hollywood Casino
River City Casino
Comedy Club
Winner
Funny Bone: Looking for a laugh? The Funny Bone has two locations, in Westport and the Streets of St. Charles. For more than 35 years, the comedy club has hosted myriad talented comedians, from veterans to rising stars.
Finalists
The Factory
Helium Comedy Club
Dance Company
Winner
U Can Dance Studio: At U Can Dance Studio, co-owners Stan and Mary Collins and their award-winning staff teach dance to all ages and skill levels. The studio offers private lessons and group classes, competitive lessons, and lessons for those anticipating their First Dance.
U CAN DANCE STUDIO
Finalists
Saint Louis Dance Theatre (formerly The Big Muddy Dance Company)
St. Louis Ballet
DJ
Winner
DJ Greco Ray: Beyond her captivating, layered mixes that pump up crowds, EDM artist DJ Greco Ray also produces self-released music. Her new release, “Puppet Master,” is her first instrumental track.
Finalists
DJ Cassiana
Løstgirl
Festival
Winner
Festival of the Little Hills: Since 1971, this festival has celebrated the history of St. Charles, hosting more than 300 crafters, artisans, and arts vendors, as well as numerous food and drink options and a slate of live music.
Finalists
Festival of Nations
Sky Wars
Live Music Venue
Winner
The Factory: Since opening in 2021, the Chesterfield venue has become a staple on the music scene, hosting a range of big-name acts. Its flexible seating allows for up to 3,000 attendees, so a good seat can be found anywhere in the house, while the industrial energy fuels the electric atmosphere.
Finalists
The Pageant
Wildey Theatre
Live Theater Group
Winner
The Muny: This Forest Park institution continues to find new ways to delight audiences, including its recent debut of In the Heights, as well as a performance from John Legend and the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra.
Finalists
The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis
STAGES St. Louis
STAGES St. Louis
Local Musician
Winner
Miranda Bury: Bury is a country star on the rise, having released a self-titled album last year and a new single this year, all while performing at Southern Illinois venues.
Finalists
Danny Kalaher
Moon Valjean
Movie Theater
Winner
Marcus Ronnie’s Cinema: The South County cinema is a moviegoer’s paradise: It has a drive-in-themed area, an arcade, bar, tons of food, and plenty of theaters with cozy seating.
Finalists
B&B Theatres
Hi-Pointe Theatre
Museum (Non-Art)
Winner
City Museum: A sort of fever dream come to life, City Museum is a one-of-a-kind wonder for all ages to explore. Enjoy the rooftop Ferris wheel, outdoor climbable sculpture, a five-story spiral slide, and more in the heart of downtown.
Finalists
Missouri History Museum
Saint Louis Science Center
Missouri History Museum
Radio Personality
Winner
Randy Raley | KBDZ 93.1: With more than 45 years of experience, Raley is more than an on-air personality at the classic rock station—he’s also its music director.
Finalists
Courtney Landrum | 106.5 The Arch
Scott Rizzuto | 105.7 The Point
Radio Show
Winner
Randy Raley Morning Show | KBDZ 93.1: Weekday mornings start with rock and Raley, who prides himself on letting the music speak for itself, without filler content getting in the way.
Finalists
The Courtney Show | 106.5 The Arch
The Rizzuto Show | 105.7 The Point
Radio Station
Winner
KBDZ 93.1: Home to the best classic rock music of the ’70s and ’80s, KBDZ plays both the crowd-pleasing favorites and long-forgotten gems.
Finalists
106.5 The Arch
88.7 The Sound
Social Media Account/Influencer (Local)
Winner
Nikki Serenity: Nikki Serenity has been published in more than 90 magazines. In 2022, the model was featured on Dr. Phil, where she proudly embraced her body hair and expressed how harmful beauty standards can be.
Finalists
Kelly Manno
The Newlywed Chefs
Sports Team
Winner
St. Louis Cardinals: With 11 World Series championships, the Cardinals and St. Louis are synonymous. That “best fans in baseball” moniker is well-deserved.
Finalists
St. Louis Blues
St. Louis CITY SC
Talk/News Radio Show
Winner
St. Louis on the Air: Host Elaine Cha invites guests to discuss a wide range of timely topics: arts and culture, science and technology, politics—you name it. St. Louis on the Air creates a space for a deeper dive into some of the region’s most pressing issues.
Finalists
The Courtney Show | 106.5 The Arch
The Rizzuto Show | 105.7 The Point
Tourist Attraction
Winner
Saint Louis Zoo: The Saint Louis Zoo frequently tops this list—and national ones, too. Beyond the free admission and world-class exhibits, it does important conservation work behind the scenes, and it’s always looking for ways to improve. Case in point: the forthcoming 2.8-acre Destination Discovery area, as well as WildCare Park in North County.
Finalists
The Gateway Arch
Missouri Botanical Garden
TV Meteorologist
Winner
Anthony Slaughter | KSDK (Channel 5): After spending five years in San Francisco as a meteorologist, Slaughter returned to St. Louis in 2016. His detailed forecasts and jovial personality shine through like the sun on a partly cloudy day.
Finalists
Angela Hutti | FOX 2
Glenn Zimmerman | FOX 2
TV Morning Show
Winner
FOX 2 News in the Morning: A perennial reader favorite, the morning show offers a mix of breaking news, heart-warming stories, and in-depth weather forecasts—all delivered by the station’s affable team.
Finalists
Great Day | KMOV (Channel 4)
Today in St. Louis | KSDK (Channel 5)
TV News Anchor
Winner
Mandy Murphey | FOX 2: Anchoring evening and night news for the FOX 2 news team, Murphey has won 14 Emmys over more than 30 years with the station. The combination of her news sensibility and relatability to the viewer have been the keys to her success.
Finalists
Mike Bush | KSDK (Channel 5)
Rene Knott | KSDK (Channel 5)
TV Sports Anchor
Winner
Frank Cusumano | KSDK (Channel 5): A St. Louis native, Cusumano understands the significance of local sports stories. He was named KSDK’s sports director in 2016 and continues to deliver compelling stories with the same passion he’s had since joining the station in 1993.
Finalists
Martin Kilcoyne | FOX 2
Tamar Sher | KMOV (Channel 4)
Weekend Getaway
Winner
Lake of the Ozarks: Make a splash, explore underground caves, recharge at a spa, dine at local restaurants, or go shopping. This summer staple is a perfect weekend retreat.
Finalists
Hermann
Innsbrook
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Automotive
Auto Dealer (New)
Winner
Lou Fusz Automotive Network: Home of St. Louis’ largest vehicle selection, Lou Fusz carries more than 3,000 new and used vehicles, 17 brands, and 19 locations nationwide, with 10 in the metro area.
Lou Fusz Automotive Network
Finalists
Bommarito Automotive Group
Jim Butler Automotive Group
Auto Dealer (Pre-Owned)
Winner
Lou Fusz Automotive Network: The Fusz Family proudly sponsors Lou Fusz Athletic: Automotive purchases help support young athletes in local club sports.
Lou Fusz Automotive Network
Finalists
Autohaus BMW
iAutoAgent
Auto Repair & Mechanic
Winner
Lou Fusz Automotive Network: For dents, dings, and repairs, Fusz has multiple auto body repair shops across the region, which are unique to the individual car brands.
Lou Fusz Automotive Network
Finalists
Quality Auto Repair Tire and Auto Sales
R & G Tire
Luxury Auto Dealer
Winner
Lou Fusz Automotive Network: At Lou Fusz, every vehicle is clearly priced and presented alongside a free CARFAX report.
Lou Fusz Automotive Network
Finalists
Autohaus BMW
Holman Motorcars
RV Sales and Service
Winner
Apache Village RV Center: Apache Village carries new and used RVs, parts, and accessories, in addition to offering service repairs and workups. The Hazelwood-based RV center is family-owned and -operated.
Apache Village RV
Finalists
Byerly RV
Midwest RV Center
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Arts & Entertainment / Automotive / Beauty / Food & Drink / Health & Wellness / Home & Garden / Shopping & Services / Weddings / EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS / 2023 A-LIST AWARDS
Beauty
Christina White Salon (Best Blow Dry Bar)
Barber
Winner
Abby Gaeng–The Hurley Co.: Formerly known as Salon Antebellum, The Hurley Co. offers “an experience, not just a haircut.” Abby Gaeng started with the company in January 2021 after shadowing in the salon—she especially appreciated its familial atmosphere and owner Kelly Hurley’s teaching style. Gaeng’s favorite services include balayages, color corrections, and eyebrow shaping.
Finalists
Happy Medium Barber Shop
Tailored Fades by Chelsie
Beauty Products
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: Run by the mother-daughter duo of Rachel and Virginia Schulte, Laser Me has garnered thousands of loyal clients during the 24 years it’s been in business.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
Christina White Salon
Sunset Skin
Beauty School
Winner
Crave Beauty Academy: The Ballwin location is the newest addition to the network of Crave Beauty campuses, which feature classroom facilities and a student salon. The academy offers courses and certification in cosmetology, aesthetics, and nail technology, while the salon has full services under the observation of experienced professionals.
Crave Beauty Academy
Finalists
Grabber School of Hair Design
South Technical High School
Blow Dry Bar
Winner
Christina White Salon: With locations in Brentwood and Chesterfield, Christina White Salon offers not only blow dry services but also hair extensions, blonding, and balayage, among other services. All employed stylists are certified in the Christina White Blended Method.
Finalists
Libby’s Blowtique—A Blow Dry Bar
The Face & The Body
Body Sculpting
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: At Laser Me, clients experience advanced aesthetic and wellness procedures, including laser hair removal, body sculpting, and hormone replacement therapy. Laser Me strives to help clients move toward their aesthetic goals with noninvasive options and visible results.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
Metro MedSpa
skinBe Med Spa
Cosmetic Injectables
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: In addition to providing services and treatments for St. Louis–area clientele, Laser Me gives back to the community through its Love for Survivors program, which supports local military veterans, first responders, and cancer survivors.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
Metro MedSpa
PRICK’D Medspa
Day Spa
Winner
SOHA Skin: The South City day spa offers massage therapy, facials, chemical peels, lash extensions, and spray tans.
Finalists
The Face & The Body Skin & Body Bar
Skin & Body Bar
Eye Lashes
Winner
Christy Leigh Lashes: Christy Leigh specializes in eyelash extensions while maintaining health for the natural lash. Leigh Classic fills, classic full sets, hybrid fills, volume fills, and lash removal are also offered. Appointments are required.
Finalists
Simplifying Beauty
SkyyyBeautyyy
Facial / Skin Care
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: Laser Me’s team includes an in-house physician, aestheticians, and certified nurses who provide aesthetic maintenance and boutique-style care.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
Metro MedSpa
PRICK’D Medspa
Hair Colorist
Winner
Hair by Rachel Drmacich: Based in St. Charles, Rachel Drmacich is a vivid hair color specialist but also accepts bridal beauty and blonde coloration appointments.
Finalists
Christina White Salon
Jill Rongey, Salon Ludic
Hair Extensions
Winner
Cindy Voss–Salon Lofts/Chesterfield Hair Enhancements: Hair-replacement and -enhancement specialist Cindy Voss has almost four decades of expertise in the beauty industry. She’s certified in Cyberhair, keratin complex, and formaldehyde-free smoothing treatments. The salon sources hair globally to match color, texture, and curls to any prospective client.
Chesterfield Hair Enhancements
Finalists
Christina White Salon
Jill Rongey, Salon Ludic
Hair Removal
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: At Laser Me, services run from aesthetic treatments—for instance, laser hair removal and permanent makeup—to medical procedures, such as hormone replacement therapy.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
Metro MedSpa
Waxed by MC
Hair Salon
Winner
314 Mane: Co-owners/master stylists Priscilla Gruber and Jonna Schaeffer, who both have more than 20 years of experience in the industry, offer a range of styling services at their Kirkwood salon.
314 Mane
Finalists
Christina White Salon
KkSnipsandStyles
Nail Salon
Winner
Nailz by Mary: Nailz by Mary offers high-quality nail art, enhancements, and manicures at a home-based studio, where the owner provides the customizable, personable benefits of a private nail technician.
Finalists
Beautiful Nails
The Face & The Body
Tanning Services
Winner
Spray St. Louis: The Valley Park–based, mobile spray-tanning service specializes in custom airbrush tans and a range of options: express, bridal packages, parties for groups of four or more, and boosters.
Spray St. Louis
Finalists
Just Fakin’ Tans
Sunset Skin
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Food & Drink
Terror Tacos (Best Vegetarian / Vegan Restaurant)
Bakery
Winner
Missouri Baking Co.: Celebrating its 100th year in business, the beloved bakery on The Hill serves up Italian treats and just about anything a pastry lover could desire: cookies, cannoli, chocolate drops, and more.
Finalists
Federhofer’s Bakery
Nathaniel Reid Bakery
Bar
Winner
Syberg’s: With eight locations and a 40-plus-year history, the family-owned business has become a sports bar staple in St. Louis. Try the award-winning chicken wings or iconic Syberg’s Shark Bite cocktail.
Finalists
Helen Fitzgerald’s Irish Grill & Pub
Narwhal’s Crafted
BBQ
Winner
Sugarfire Smoke House: Whether you’re craving classic barbecue, burgers, salad, or salmon, you’ll find it at Sugarfire. Top your favorite meat with one of seven unique sauces—and polish off the meal with a slice of pie.
Finalists
Pappy’s Smokehouse
Salt + Smoke
Breakfast
Winner
The Shack Breakfast & Lunch: The Shack is all about making memories, which is why the restaurant lets customers write on the walls. The menu is memorable too, featuring over-the-top dishes with creative names.
Finalists
Clara B’s Kitchen Table
hatch’d STL
Hatch’d STL
Brewery
Winner
4 Hands Brewing Co.: Whether you’re adventurous or prefer the classics, 4 Hands has a beer for everyone. The seasonal beers cycle through inventive flavors, and the original tasting room offers food and arcade games upstairs—though the newer Chesterfield and Kirkwood locations are also well worth a visit.
Finalists
Heavy Riff Brewing Co.
Schlafly Beer
Brunch
Winner
The Shack Breakfast & Lunch: Go as sweet or savory as you like at The Shack. With such menu items as “Make a Grown Man Cry” and “Why the French Hate Us,” your curiosity and appetite are bound to be piqued.
Finalists
Carnivore STL
Twisted Tavern
Burger
Winner
Hi-Pointe Drive-In: What started as a little—albeit colorful—burger joint off Highway 40 has turned into a multi-location St. Louis favorite. Hi-Pointe’s salads and milkshakes are something special, but its mouthwatering burgers steal the show.
Finalists
Mac’s Local Eats
Twisted Tavern
Chef
Winner
Tyler Layton | Twisted Tree Steakhouse: Layton, who can be found in the kitchens of Twisted Tree Steakhouse and Twisted Tavern, is the force behind the restaurants’ juicy steaks, made from premium Black Angus beef from Creekstone Farms.
Finalists
Coby Arzola | Arzola’s Fajitas + Margaritas
Mike Lutker | Carnivore STL
Chinese Restaurant
Winner
Corner 17: At Corner 17, you can’t go wrong with handmade dumplings or orange chicken, but try spicing up your order with one of the specials: sweet and sour flounder, Sichuan spicy noodles, or mango fluffy ice for dessert.
Finalists
China King
Lu Lu Seafood & Dim Sum
Chocolatier
Winner
Crown Candy Kitchen: Crown Candy is a St. Louis icon for a reason. It has a vast selection of sweet treats, ranging from chocolate-covered caramels that melt in your mouth to snappers with a satisfying crunch.
Finalists
Bissinger’s
Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Co.
Cocktails
Winner
Narwhal’s Crafted: With 14 frozen cocktails and more on the rocks, Narwhal’s Crafted is a refreshing stop in summer. Cool off with a frozen blackberry-cucumber mojito or an Aperol spritz. Can’t pick? Get three with the Flight of the Narwhal.
Finalists
Planter’s House
Twisted Tavern
Coffeehouse
Winner
Upshot Coffee: Upshot’s rich flavors and relaxed atmosphere have turned this coffeehouse into a St. Louis favorite in just five short years. Try one of the pour-overs or, if coffee isn’t your thing, an “alt-coffee,” such as a golden milk or charcoal latte.
Upshot Coffee
Finalists
Exit 11 Coffee
Teleo Coffee
Cupcakes
Winner
Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Café: Since 2007, Jilly’s cupcakes have won heaps of awards, as well as the hearts—and taste buds—of the city. Keep it fresh with the monthly cupcake, or enjoy a tried-and-true treat, such as the s’moreo or turtle cheesecake.
Finalists
The Cup
Sarah’s Cake Shop
Desserts
Winner
The Blue Owl Bakery: The legendary bakery/restaurant Blue Owl in Kimmswick offers a range of flavorful treats. If you’re partial to fruit desserts, then try its award-winning Levee High Apple Pie or the peach pie. Those with a sweet tooth should consider the Snicker Bar Pie or gooey butter cheesecake.
The Blue Owl Bakery
Finalists
Nathaniel Reid Bakery
Sugar & Slice Bakery on Main
Diner
Winner
Billy G’s Chesterfield: Billy G’s has a different take on a “diner,” serving elevated fare in a casual setting. Its classic breakfast menu is served all day. For dinner, consider a smokehouse smashburger with bacon and caramelized onions, or try a plate of rigatoni alla vodka with homemade marinara cream sauce.
Billy G’s Chesterfield
Finalists
Courtesy Diner
Southwest Diner
Distillery
Winner
Old Monroe Distilling Co. (formerly Stumpy’s Spirits Distillery): Based in Columbia, Illinois, this distillery emphasizes a farm-to-table, family-driven approach. Its Old Monroe bourbon whiskey is a signature blend with notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Finalists
Pinckney Bend Distillery
StilL 630 Distillery
Doughnuts
Winner
Old Town Donuts: For more than 30 years, Old Town Donuts has been baking up fresh, tasty doughnuts for St. Louis sweet tooths. You can’t go wrong with a simple glazed or Long John; its blueberry cake doughnut and old-fashioned are winners, too.
Finalists
Donut Drive-In
The Donut Stop
Farmers Market
Winner
Soulard Farmers Market: Centuries after opening near the banks of the Mississippi, St. Louis’ oldest public market remains a hub of eclectic sights and sounds. Enjoy high-quality produce and an array of vendors who stock items from every corner of the globe.
Finalists
The Summit All Seasons Market, Kirkwood Farmers Market
Tower Grove Farmers’ Market
Fine Dining Restaurant
Winner
Twisted Tree Steakhouse: From the families behind Syberg’s and Macon’s Pear Tree Kitchen & Bar, this Sunset Hills restaurant is known for its wet-aged steaks. Don’t overlook the breakfast menu—or its Sip & Savor menu, available from 3–6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
Finalists
Annie Gunn’s
LoRusso’s Cucina
Food Truck
Winner
Truck Norris STL: Perhaps it’s no surprise, given the name, but Truck Norris seems to do it all—and do it well. Peruse its extensive menu, filled with nachos, egg rolls, sushi, and sandwiches. Don’t miss the Tot-Chos: crispy tater tots layered with pulled pork, St. Louis-style barbecue sauce, and a heap of toppings.
Finalists
Narwhal’s Crafted
Taste-D-Burger STL
French Fries
Winner
Steve’s Hot Dogs: There’s more to Steve’s than just its iconic hot dogs. It recently added smashburgers to the menu, and you can supplement either with a choice of fries—including the buffalo-and-bacon-topped Darth Tater version.
Finalists
Mascots
Taste-D-Burger
French Restaurant
Winner
Brasserie by Niche: Experience French fine dining without leaving the city at Gerard Craft’s French-inspired bistro, where the menu includes such entrées as pan-seared trout amandine, bistro steak, and duck l’orange.
Finalists
Cafe Provencal
La Bonne Bouchée
Fried Chicken
Winner
Hodak’s Restaurant & Bar: A St. Louis staple since 1962, Hodak’s started as a small tavern but has grown into a restaurant and bar with a loyal following for its golden-fried chicken, with the perfect measures of tenderness, flavor, and crunch.
Finalists
Joey B’s
King Edward’s Chicken & Fish
Frozen Custard
Winner
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: Ted Drewes’ familiar yellow cups are a hallmark of summertime in St. Louis. With more specialty items and custard combos than you can count, Ted Drewes serves up the perfect cold treat for everyone—upside down, of course.
Finalists
Andy’s Frozen Custard
Doozle’s Frozen Custard
Greek Restaurant
Winner
Olympia Kebob House & Taverna: Olympia prides itself on serving authentic Greek food in a neighborhood atmosphere. Try one of the popular gyros, lamb chops with rice and vegetables, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.
Finalists
Michael’s Bar & Grill
Spiro’s Restaurant
Grocery Store
Winner
Schnucks: Founded in North St. Louis in 1939, the family-owned company has expanded to more than 115 stores across four states and now offers curbside and delivery services, as well as cooking classes.
Finalists
Dierbergs Markets
Straub’s
Happy Hour
Winner
Syberg’s: Syberg’s hosts happy hour on weekdays from 2–6 p.m., when specials include select drinks, 9-inch St. Louis–style pizzas, and a range of $7 appetizers.
Finalists
Helen Fitzgerald’s Irish Grill & Pub
Narwhal’s Crafted
Hidden Gem Restaurant
Winner
Liliana’s Italian Kitchen: The family-owned and -operated restaurant’s sweeping menu includes Italian sandwiches, salads, pastas, and pizzas. Complete your meal with a side of garlic bread.
Finalists
Fratelli’s Ristorante
Vicini Pastaria
Ice Cream
Winner
Clementine’s Creamery: With new spins on old classics—and some flavors you’ve probably never heard of—Clementine’s excels at the element of surprise. Try the honey lavender or gooey butter cake ice cream for a new twist, or get “naughty” with one of the alcoholic flavors.
Finalists
Singers Ice Cream
Sugarwitch
Indian Restaurant
Winner
House of India: House of India calls itself a “home away from home” for customers looking for authentic Indian cuisine. Its menu includes seafood, chicken, lamb, and vegetarian dishes galore.
Finalists
Black Salt
Himalayan Yeti
Italian Restaurant
Winner
Fratelli’s Ristorante: Fratelli’s moved to St. Charles in 1996 and has been there ever since. Try a specialty pasta, such as the penne alla salute, with mushrooms, broccoli, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic in a pomodoro sauce.
Fratelli’s Ristorante
Finalists
Cunetto House of Pasta
Liliana’s Italian Kitchen
Korean Restaurant
Winner
Seoul Taco: Tacos, burritos, nachos, and more take a Korean spin at Seoul Taco. The hefty steak and chicken burritos—with kimchi fried rice, Seoul sauces, cheese, and veggies—make a filling meal and a great intro to the popular fusion restaurant.
Finalists
Kimchi Guys
Tiny Chef
Latin Restaurant
Winner
Mayo Ketchup: Mayo Ketchup serves authentic Venezuelan and Colombian street food in a casual environment in Lafayette Square. Enjoy the beef or chicken empanadas (made with hand-rolled dough), or try the queso frito (fried cheese with guava sauce).
Finalists
Asador Del Sur
TANGO Argentina Food
Liquor or Wine Store
Winner
Total Wine & More: Whatever your drink of choice, Total Wine & More can please your palate. Pick up a cocktail mix, grab a pack of your favorite beer or seltzer, or buy a bottle of wine at any price range.
Finalists
Randall’s
The Wine and Cheese Place
Mexican Restaurant
Winner
Arzola’s Fajitas + Margaritas: Yes, Arzola’s has burritos, tacos, and quesadillas, but its signature fajitas steal the show. Go classic with steak or chicken, or switch it up with the sweet potato or mojo shrimp.
Finalists
Amigos Cantina
La Catrina
Middle Eastern Restaurant
Winner
Aya Sofia: The flatbreads are loaded with beef and lamb, feta, and mozzarella, and they’re cooked to perfection. The entrées—such as Turkish dumplings, kebabs, and swordfish—are delightful representations of Middle Eastern fare.
Aya Sofia
Finalists
Sultan Mediterranean Restaurant
The Vine Cafe
New Restaurant
Winner
Billy G’s Chesterfield: The Billy G’s brand has put a new spin on retro dining. Enjoy coffee, all-day breakfast, or dinner in one of the cushy booths or on the patio. Comfort and quality is the mission at the new restaurant.
Billy G’s Chesterfield
Finalists
Madrina
Tim’s Chrome Bar
Patio
Winner
John D. McGurk’s: The beloved Irish bar in Soulard goes green in more than one way: Its picturesque patio has a sprawling garden that’s filled with plants, flowers, and a fountain—the perfect setting to enjoy an Irish-inspired meal.
Finalists
Billy G’s, Kirkwood
Joey B’s, Manchester
Billy G’s Kirkwood
Pizza (Non-St. Louis–Style)
Winner
Dewey’s Pizza: Dewey’s serves up an array of specialty pies. Consider the Don Corleone (with pepperoni, ham, and Genoa salami on red sauce) or the Edgar Allan Poe (with mushrooms, garlic, and olives on olive oil).
Dewey’s Pizza
Finalists
Pizza Head
Twisted Tavern
Pizza (St. Louis–Style)
Winner
Imo’s Pizza: When you think St. Louis–style pizza, you likely think Imo’s. Since its first store opened in 1964, Imo’s has grown into a pizza powerhouse, known far and wide for the “square beyond compare.”
Finalists
Biggie’s
Liliana’s Italian Kitchen
Rooftop Dining
Winner
Three Sixty: Enjoy your meal with a bird’s-eye view of the city in the heart of downtown. The rooftop dining experience is the perfect spot for a date night, a special celebration, or drinks with friends before a ballgame.
Finalists
The Frisco Barroom
Rooftop Garden Bar at the Moonrise Hotel
Sandwich
Winner
Gioia’s Deli: Gioia’s is rightfully famous for its signature salami sandwiches, but don’t sleep on the other options, including the Hogfather. Want to up your deli game? Get the sandwiches on garlic cheese bread.
Finalists
Blues City Deli
The Gramophone
Specialty Market
Winner
Global Foods Market: The Kirkwood store brings together flavors from around the globe. Whether you’re looking for Asian-inspired meats, Middle Eastern–style cheeses, sausages from Eastern Europe, or beer from India, you’ll find it at Global Foods.
Finalists
Parker’s Table
The Smokehouse Market at Annie Gunn’s
Sports Bar
Winner
Syberg’s: With eight area locations, including one in Downtown West near CITYPARK, Syberg’s is a popular spot to grab food and drinks while watching the game—or celebrating afterward.
Finalists
Frankie G’s
Mascots
Steakhouse
Winner
Tucker’s Place: Tucker’s Place has been cooking up its acclaimed steaks for more than 40 years. Its steaks are also some of the most reasonably priced in town.
Finalists
Sam’s Steakhouse
Twisted Tree Steakhouse
Sushi/Japanese Restaurant
Winner
Sushi Ai: Sushi Ai offers roughly 60 sushi rolls and three seasonal flavors. Choose from such options as Gochujang salmon, KBBQ Surf and Turf, and crunchy onion, as well as combos and all-you-can-eat sushi dinners.
Finalists
Sado
Wasabi Sushi Bar
Takeout
Winner
Seamus McDaniel’s: The Dogtown mainstay’s extensive lunch and dinner menu makes for a great takeout meal. Pick up jumbo onion rings, fried cheese bites, Seamus burgers, and more for a party or a low-key night at home.
Finalists
JP’s Hideout Pub & Grill
Mascots
Thai Restaurant
Winner
King & I Thai Cuisine: After moving from South Grand to Richmond Heights, St. Louis’ first Thai restaurant remains among the city’s favorites, thanks to its talented chefs, who bring authentic Thai flavors to the table.
Finalists
Pad Thai
Thai Kitchen
Vegetarian / Vegan Restaurant
Winner
Terror Tacos: A taco shop unlike any other, Terror Tacos has moody lighting, dark walls, and loud music—but also sets itself apart from the crowd with its 100 percent plant-based, vegan tacos on corn tortillas or Greek pitas. Order a “Fright” to try multiple tacos.
Finalists
Pizza Head
Tree House
Vietnamese Restaurant
Winner
Mai Lee: St. Louis’ first Vietnamese restaurant opened in 1985 with a menu primarily composed of Chinese cuisine; over time, it evolved to feature more Vietnamese dishes, such as the famous pho.
Finalists
DD Mau Vietnamese Eatery
LemonGrass
Winery
Winner
LaChance Vineyards: LaChance produces European-inspired wines from grapes in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. Enjoy a glass or two on the De Soto location’s beautiful grounds or in its historic Kimmswick cabin.
Finalists
Cedar Lake Cellars
Wild Sun Winery and Brewery
Wings
Winner
Syberg’s: The St. Louis sports bar proclaims it’s the “undisputed king of wings”—and for good reason. Pair the jumbo chicken wings with a choice of nine sauces, including the mustard-based fan-favorite Syberg’s Famous Wing Sauce, Sweet Heat, or Suicide Sauce for an extra kick.
Finalists
Hodak’s Restaurant & Bar
Joey B’s
JUMP TO SECTION
Arts & Entertainment / Automotive / Beauty / Food & Drink / Health & Wellness / Home & Garden / Shopping & Services / Weddings / EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS / 2023 A-LIST AWARDS
Health & Wellness
Castlewood State Park (Best Hiking Spot)
Acupuncture
Winner
Dr. Daniel Fazio, D.C. | Aequa Health & Wellness: An experienced chiropractic physician, Dr. Daniel Fazio aims to provide holistic health services to patients. Through acupuncture, he works to relieve pain, promote healing, and create balance in the body.
Finalists
Brian Sylve, DC | MTAA Chiropractor
PALM Health
Assisted-Living Facility
Winner
Friendship Village Senior Living: With locations in Chesterfield and Sunset Hills, the faith-based, resort-style, senior-living community promotes an active, secure, and spiritual lifestyle.
Friendship Village
Finalists
Allegro Richmond Heights
McKnight Place Assisted Living & Memory Care
Allegro Richmond Heights
Audiology Center
Winner
Gateway ENT: The oldest privately owned audiology and ENT medical practice in St. Louis offers quality care and a personalized approach.
Gateway ENT
Finalists
Mercy Adult and Children’s Audiology & Cochlear Implants
Sound Health Services
Boutique Fitness Studio
Winner
Barre STL: Perfect for the fitness newbie or longtime athlete, the barre-based fitness method combines Pilates, yoga, strength training, HIIT, and dance to create a workout that will leave members energized.
Finalists
Burn Boot Camp
St. Louis Strength Academy
Cannabis Dispensary
Winner
Kind Goods: With a wide selection of products, Kind Goods is the place for all things cannabis. Some locations offer express pickup, and others have a drive-thru or delivery.
Kind Goods
Finalists
Feel State Dispensary
Proper Cannabis
Chiropractor
Winner
Premier Chiropractic: With a variety of treatments available, from adjustments to rehabilitation, the team at Premier Chiropractic in Weldon Spring can address a wide range of conditions.
Finalists
Gateway Chiropractic
Vidan Family Chiropractic
Cosmetic Dentist
Winner
Kraner Family Dentistry | Matt Kraner: Since 2006, Matt Kraner and his team have offered comprehensive dental services. They employ high-end technologies to straighten, whiten, and brighten patients’ smiles.
Finalists
Chesterfield Dental Studio
Oakville Dental Care
Cosmetic Dermatologist
Winner
Jason B. Amato, MD Dermatology: Born and raised in St. Louis, Dr. Amato is ready to assist with everything related to the body’s biggest organ: skin. The practice has a variety of services, including Botox, filler, chemical peels, and laser treatments.
Jason B. Amato, MD Dermatology
Finalists
Basia Marie Michalski-McNeely | Washington University Physicians
Dr. Sarah Jensen | Regional Dermatology
Dietitian
Winner
Lesko Health: Allison Lesko, R.D., L.D., takes time with each client to discover how to best customize her services to their health journey. Whether the desire is weight loss or just focusing on a more nutritious diet, Lesko is there to help patients meet their goals.
Finalists
Mariah Hammond, MA, RD, LD
Precision Fitness and Nutrition Studio
Eye Care
Winner
Vision Care Consultants: Whether you need a routine eye exam or are on the hunt for the perfect pair of frames, the family-owned business prides itself on excellent service and optimal outcomes.
Vision Care Consultants
Finalists
Kirkwood Eye Associates
Primary Eyecare & Eyeware
Fitness Center
Winner
Burn Boot Camp: Besides classes, Burn Boot Camp offers child care, nutritional guidance, and a sense of community.
Finalists
Life Time Fitness
St. Louis Strength Academy
Golf Course
Winner
The Courses at Forest Park: The Norman K. Probstein golf course is open to the public and features three nine-hole courses, practice facilities, a pro shop, and a restaurant. Naturally, Forest Park provides a beautiful backdrop.
Finalists
Annbriar Golf Course
Tapawingo National Golf Club
Health Food Store
Winner
Fresh Thyme: With multiple area locations, the market-style grocer features the best in organic, fresh, and natural foods.
Finalists
Busy Body Meals
Fit-flavors
Hiking Spot
Winner
Castlewood State Park: Popular with leisurely walkers and serious hikers alike, the state park features four trails suited for any skill level.
Finalists
Cliff Cave County Park
Shaw Nature Reserve
Home Health Care
Winner
FV at Home: Friendship Village Senior Living’s home services are available on a temporary basis—such as after a surgery or illness—as well as on a long-term basis, including for seniors who require consistent at-home care.
Friendship Villages Retirement Communities
Finalists
AccuCare Home Health Care of St. Louis
Martha’s Hands
AccuCare Home Health Care of St. Louis
Independent Living
Winner
Friendship Village Senior Living: This senior-living community is an excellent option for older adults who are seeking an active, secure, and spiritual community but still want to live an independent lifestyle.
Friendship Village
Finalists
The Gatesworth
Laclede Groves
Laser Eye Treatment
Winner
Pepose Vision Institute: The first to offer LASIK in the St. Louis region, Pepose Vision is consistently recognized among the in the country for laser eye treatment and cataract surgery. The patient-centered practice boasts the latest technology, an advanced research center, and an outpatient surgery center.
Pepose Vision Institute
Finalists
Brinton Vision
Clarkson Eyecare
Massage
Winner
Maura Kay Buchheit, LMT: Through services at Brick City Wellness, Buchheit is an independent licensed massage therapist and Reiki practitioner who offers holistic support through manual bodywork and energy medicine.
Maura Kay Buchheit, LMT
Finalists
Bloom Mind + Body Co.
Mesha Hurst
Medical Spa
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: Laser Me brings exceptional care across a range of areas, as many of its more than 10,000 clients can attest.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
Metro MedSpa
PRICK’D Medspa
Medical Weight-Loss Clinic
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: The professionals at Laser Me can assist clients who want to advance their weight-loss journey, helping them look and feel their best.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
PALM Health
SSM Health Weight Management Services
Orthodontist
Winner
Otto Orthodontics: With locations in Creve Coeur, Des Peres, Fenton, St. Peters, and Wentzville, Otto Orthodontics treats each patient with customized service and strives to make orthodontic treatment a positive experience for all.
Otto Orthodontics
Finalists
Bankhead & Firth Orthodontics
Borello Orthodontics
Park (Besides Forest Park)
Winner
Tower Grove Park: The beloved park has all sorts of draws across its 289 acres: historic features, grass tennis courts, a picturesque fountain and pavilions, and a bustling farmers market.
Finalists
Creve Coeur Lake Park
Francis Park
Personal Trainer
Winner
Jennifer Bertucci | Life Time Fitness: Bertucci is a favorite trainer for members of Life Time Fitness in Ellisville. Certified by the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Bertucci has experience as a marathon runner—she even ran last year’s Boston Marathon.
Finalists
Ashley O’Hare | Burn Boot Camp
Katrine Stewart | Burn Boot Camp
Physical Therapy/Rehab
Winner
Factor Physical Therapy: From adolescents to seniors, Factor Physical Therapy specializes in one-on-one rehabilitative therapy. Whether you’re suffering from a work or sports injury or just generalized pain, Factor’s licensed physical therapists are ready to help.
Finalists
Advanced Training and Rehab
SSM Health Physical Therapy
Pilates Studio
Winner
Brick City Yoga: Clients can focus on stretching while strengthening the body and mind with Pilates classes at Brick City Yoga’s Benton Park studio.
Brick City Yoga
Finalists
Boom Pilates
City Pilates
Boom Pilates
Sports/Orthopedic Rehab
Winner
Factor Physical Therapy: Athletes can get back to what they do best with the help of Factor’s sports and orthopedic rehabilitation services.
Finalists
Axes Physical Therapy
SSM Health Physical Therapy
Therapist or Mental Health Professional
Winner
Sea-Change Health & Wellness: Owner Lauren-Ashleigh Whitaker believes that therapy is a necessity in today’s world. She prides herself on providing clients with compassion, support, and holistic care.
Sea-Change Health & Wellness
Finalists
EMPOWERED Therapy
Osage Valley Counseling
Urgent Care
Winner
Total Access Urgent Care: Receive care from emergency-trained medical staff without a visit to the emergency room. Convenience is at the forefront, as testing, lab work, and imaging are available in one place.
Finalists
Mercy-GoHealth Urgent Care
St. Luke’s Urgent Care
Wellness Center
Winner
Laser Me Aesthetics & Wellness: When life feels chaotic, retreat to Laser Me for a wellness boost. Feeling drained and want a quick fix? Laser Me has B12 injections and IV hydration.
Laser Me: Aesthetics & Wellness
Finalists
ABChiropractic Family & Wellness
Brick City Wellness
Yoga Studio
Winner
Brick City Yoga: Find solace in the city with a variety of inclusive yoga classes meant to accommodate every experience level and budget.
Brick City Yoga
Finalists
Go Yoga Express
South River Yoga
JUMP TO SECTION
Arts & Entertainment / Automotive / Beauty / Food & Drink / Health & Wellness / Home & Garden / Shopping & Services / Weddings / EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS / 2023 A-LIST AWARDS
Home & Garden
Metro Lighting (Best Home Lighting)
Antique and Vintage Shop
Winner
St. Louis Estate Buyers: St. Louis Estate Buyers offers estate buyouts, online and in-person auctions, and appraisals. Its retail stores in West County Center and South County Center feature a selection of inventory from various estates.
St. Louis Estate Buyers
Finalists
Ditto
The Hill Antique Market
Electrician
Winner
Streib Company: Today, Streib Company is a full-service commercial and residential electric, media, systems, security, and renewable energy contractor. President/CEO Tom Streib started as an electrician in Shrewsbury in 1996, and Streib’s still considers residential electrical services “the heart of Streib Company’s business.”
Streib Company
Finalists
Baker Electric
Hoffmann Brothers
Hoffmann Brothers
Flooring Retailer
Winner
Advance Carpet One Floor & Home: As part of the Carpet One Floor and Home cooperative, Advance Carpet One pairs local ownership with the buying power of 1,000 locations worldwide. Shoppers can browse hardwood, carpet, luxury vinyl, tile, and more at its showrooms in Des Peres and O’Fallon, Missouri.
Advance Carpet One
Finalists
Champion Floor Co.
Evans Flooring
Furniture Store
Winner
Carol House Furniture: Since founder Nat Dubman started his first furniture store in Valley Park in 1964, Carol House has grown from two employees to more than 170. There’s two retail locations, each with more than 75,000 square feet of showroom space. Local ads still feature brother-and-sister owners Brook and Amy Dubman, as well as the company’s classic catchphrase: “Because you like nice things.”
Finalists
Amini’s Galleria
The White Hare
Garden Store / Nursery
Winner
Rolling Ridge Nursery: The Webster Groves nursery and garden center has been serving the St. Louis area for more than 60 years. It’s stocked with a variety of plants and products and offers potting services, free local delivery, and outdoor installation and removal services.
Rolling Ridge Nursery
Finalists
Chalily Ponds & Gardens
Frisella Nursery
Heating and Air Conditioning Company
Winner
Air Comfort Service: Air Comfort Service is a full-service heating and cooling contractor that offers repair, installation, maintenance plans, and more to commercial and residential clients. See its website for details on discounts for seniors and active military members, as well as referral rewards.
Finalists
Hoffmann Brothers
SmartHouse Heating & Cooling
Hoffmann Brothers
SmartHouse Heating and Cooling
Home Appliance Store
Winner
Slyman Bros Appliances: After launching the business in 1965, founding partners Bob and Harry Slyman made names for themselves by starring in their own commercials. While you won’t see a Slyman on TV these days, you can still find a Slyman family member at each of the chain’s stores.
Slyman Bros
Finalists
Appliance Discounters
Lemcke Appliance & Television
Home Builder
Winner
McBride Homes: As Missouri’s largest home builder, McBride has a host of choices for buyers considering a newly built home. It has everything from move-in-ready houses to a selection of sites and floorplans that can be customized at its 10,000-square-foot design center showroom in Chesterfield Valley.
McBride Homes
Finalists
Fischer & Frichtel Homes
Rolwes Co.
Fischer & Frichtel
Home Insulation
Winner
Buckingham Pest Control: While it’s best known for residential and commercial pest control, Buckingham also offers home insulation options, including conventional cellulose attic insulation and thermal acoustical pest control—insulation that should only be installed by licensed pest control professionals.
Buckingham Pest Control
Finalists
Goley Insulation Inc.
Koala Insulation of Gateway West & Metro East, IL
Koala Insulation of Gateway West & Metro East, IL
Home Landscaping
Winner
All Seasons Maintenance Services: Industrial, commercial, and residential clients can look to All Seasons for a broad portfolio of services, including customized irrigation plans, excavation, concrete and gravel installation, and traditional landscaping, such as turf maintenance and seasonal cleanup.
Finalists
Flora Design & Landscape
Frisella Landscape Group
Home Lighting
Winner
Metro Lighting: In addition to operating six lighting and furniture showrooms in Missouri, Metro Lighting also has such services as customized lighting design and layout, energy audits, lamp and fixture repair, and custom-lighting-fixture design for both consumers and design professionals.
Finalists
Amini’s Galleria
Frisella Outdoor Lighting
Home Organization
Winner
Saint Louis Closet Co.: This woman-owned business begins every job with a free in-home design consultation that helps clients envision custom closets and storage solutions for spaces including pantries, laundry rooms, garages, craft rooms, wine nooks, and more.
Finalists
Goldilocks Solutions
Properly Spaced
Home Resale Shop
Winner
Ditto Family Resale: Eight area schools operate this nonprofit resale shop; earnings are divided equally among them and go toward student scholarships. Many shoppers don’t have any affiliation with the schools, however, and are simply drawn to the broad selection of clothing, furniture, home decor, toys, games, and more.
Finalists
Emporium St. Louis
The Hill Antique Market
House Cleaning
Winner
Better Life Maids: Locally owned by husband-and-wife team Matt and Angela Ricketts, Better Life has specialty services—including move-out cleaning, deep cleaning, and organizational consultations—in addition to traditional house cleaning.
Better Life Maids
Finalists
Green Angel Cleaning
Two Ladies & A Bucket
Kitchen and Bath Remodeler
Winner
Premium Kitchen & Bath: Locally owned and operated by husband-and-wife team John and Candice Morgan, Premium works with contractors, homebuilders, remodelers, and designers—though homeowners are also welcome to check out its showroom, which is stocked with kitchen and bath cabinetry.
Premium Kitchen and Bath
Finalists
Anne Marie Design Studio
Liston Design Build
Liston Design Build
Moving Company
Winner
Two Men and A Truck: Two Men and A Truck’s St. Louis location started with a single truck in 1994 and has since expanded its services to include junk removal, packing services, storage, senior-living moves, and business-relocation services. Today, the location operates more than 40 trucks that complete more than 10,000 home and business relocations annually.
Two Men and a Truck
Finalists
BEK Moving Co.
McGuire Moving and Storage
Painting Company
Winner
Kennedy Painting: In business since 1998, Kennedy Painting’s services include interior and exterior painting, cabinet painting, and plaster and drywall work. Its Painter for a Day service can also help homeowners turn over small painting and carpentry jobs to a professional.
Kennedy Painting
Finalists
House of Paint & Design Co.
OnDemand Painters
Pest Control
Winner
Buckingham Pest Control: Buckingham offers pest control for a variety of creepy crawlers: termites, ants, and more. There are interior, exterior, and custom plans, as well as specialty services, such as attic insulation installation and wildlife removal.
Buckingham Pest Control
Finalists
AMCO Ranger Termite & Pest Solutions
Rottler Pest Solutions
Plumbing
Winner
Hoffmann Brothers: Mechanical engineer Robert Hoffmann founded the company in 1988 with four employees, who specialized in residential heating and cooling. Today, company ownership has expanded to include sons Chris and Joe, and the company employs more than 300 people. Hoffmann Brothers now offers such services as plumbing, electrical, and appliance repair in St. Louis and Nashville.
Hoffmann Brothers
Finalists
Chesterfield Service
Warrior Sewer and Drain
Real Estate Agent
Winner
The Dawn Griffin Real Estate Group | eXp Realty: A team that includes a dedicated transactions coordinator, a business analyst, and other specialty support staff means agents can focus fully on client service at this real estate group, which has helped more than 1,000 clients with more than $220 million in sales since 2004.
The Dawn Griffin Real Estate Group
Finalists
The Dawn Griffin Group’s team approach provides individualized experiences connecting clients to real estate goals. Professionals are laser-focused on delivering in their area of expertise, ensuring outstanding customer experiences. By leveraging deep local insights, adept negotiation skills, and innovative strategies, clients are assured a seamless journey, guided by caring experts.
Swimming Pool Services
Winner
Baker Pool Construction & Service: Baker Pool remains one of the region’s leading builders of custom concrete swimming pools, with more than five decades of experience. Beyond offering new pool construction, Baker Pool also offers pool and spa maintenance services, allowing customers to spend more time relaxing.
Finalists
Meramec Hardscapes
The Pool Specialists
Windows and Doors
Winner
Chaney Windows and Doors: This locally owned and operated company sells and installs doors and windows, including an eye-catching array of custom projects and bow and bay windows.
Chaney Windows and Doors
Finalists
Mosby Building Arts
Schultz Contracting
JUMP TO SECTION
Arts & Entertainment / Automotive / Beauty / Food & Drink / Health & Wellness / Home & Garden / Shopping & Services / Weddings / EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS / 2023 A-LIST AWARDS
Shopping & Services
Thirteen Roses Tattoo (Best Tattoo Shop)
Activewear
Winner
Alpine Shop: The award-winning outfitter started its journey more than 40 years ago as a small climbing shop above a home winemaking business. It focuses on outdoor activities and stocks apparel, footwear, and accessories for camping, as well as products for climbing, cycling, paddling, running, and snow sports.
Finalists
Fantastic Finds
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Animal Clinic (Practice)
Winner
Imperial Animal Hospital, LLC: This independently owned animal clinic serves Imperial and the surrounding area with veterinary care, plus boarding and grooming services. With the motto “caring hearts, tender hands,” it has also created the IAH Care Fund in partnership with the Veterinary Care Foundation.
Imperial Animal Hospital, LLC
Finalists
Barrett Station Veterinary Clinic
MetroVet
Bank
Winner
Commerce Bank: Established a century and a half ago, Commerce Bank’s mission is to help clients solve financial challenges so they can “focus on the things that matter most.” The bank operates in 300 branch and ATM locations, 61 of them in Missouri.
Finalists
Regions Bank
Simmons Bank
Simmons Bank
Bed and Breakfast
Winner
Old Vine Bed and Breakfast: This elegant B&B is located in Hermann’s historic district, within walking distance of restaurants, wineries, distilleries, boutiques, as well as the train station. Guests are treated to a locally sourced, farm-to-table breakfast.
Old Vine Bed and Breakfast
Finalists
Hermann Hill
Tuxedo Park STL
Bicycle Shop
Winner
South Side Cyclery: Founder Velmo “Chap” Chappuis raced with the St. Louis Cycling Club, and he and his family lived above the store when it opened in the 1930s. South Side Cyclery offers traditional and electric bikes, wheels, parts, accessories, and more. It hosts classes on basic maintenance, in addition to group rides, such as Girls Night Out and Saturday Morning Training.
Finalists
Big Shark
The Bike Center
Bookstore
Winner
The Novel Neighbor: This women-owned and -operated bookstore in Webster Groves welcomes people of all backgrounds to celebrate a love for books. The Novel Neighbor carries a wide range of genres, locally made art, and curated gifts. It’s also known for personalized Mystery Boxes, as well as its subscription service.
Finalists
Betty’s Books
Left Bank Books
Credit Union
Winner
Vantage Credit Union: Founded as a credit union for educators, Vantage Credit Union now serves residents throughout St. Louis. If you’re looking to bank, borrow, invest, or insure, it offers a wide range of options, with services including vehicle loans, credit cards, home equity, financial planning, and retirement planning.
Vantage Credit Union
Finalists
Century Credit Union
First Community Credit Union
Dry Cleaner / Alterations
Winner
American Cleaners: This locally owned and operated family business has been providing dry-cleaning and commercial-laundry service in St. Louis since 1961. American Cleaners even offers same-day service for most dry-cleanable items.
American Cleaners
Finalists
Anthony Tailoring and Alteration
DeMun Professional Cleaners
Financial Advisor
Winner
ARK Financial Wellness: ARK strives to empower clients to achieve financial independence by “employing highly personalized planning strategies that embrace core values to achieve your most fulfilling return on life.”
ARK Financial Wellness
Finalists
Andy Branz, New York Life
Rob Read, CWR Private Client Group
Florist
Winner
Walter Knoll: With multiple locations across the region, Walter Knoll has a wide range of floral arrangements for various occasions. Same-day delivery is available too.
Finalists
Blooming Buckets
Kirkwood Florist
Gift Store
Winner
Sammysoap: The Kirkwood shop handcrafts each bar in small batches using 100 percent, all-natural skin care products that are vegan, as well as fragrance-, dye-, and synthetic-free. All products are also made without cruelty to animals. The soap is created in an attached factory, tucked behind the store, which is available for tours.
Finalists
Aerie Lane
The White Hare
Insurance Agent
Winner
Kyle Dillehay | Dillehay Insurance Agency: This St. Peters–based agency assists customers with a plethora of insurance options, including auto, home, life, umbrella, restaurant, and contractors.
Finalists
Andy Branz, New York Life
Kirk D. Faubel Insurance Advisors
Jeweler
Winner
Adler’s Diamonds: A passion for jewelry and watchmaking runs deep at Adler’s Diamonds, which is owned and operated by two sisters who were raised by jewelers—their father, grandfather, and great-grandmother previously owned Adler’s Jewelers.
Adler’s Diamonds
Finalists
Lindwedel Jewelers
Summit Jewelers
Local Hotel
Winner
The Cheshire: Eighteenth-century antiques, furnishings, and fixtures adorn this historic hotel, which is cozily infused with a British aesthetic. Its 108 rooms and suites are named in honor of British authors, poets, and playwrights.
Finalists
Angad Arts Hotel
Le Méridien St. Louis Clayton
Locally Owned Clothing Store
Winner
Series Six: Years ago, after not being able to find a “classic” St. Louis T-shirt to take with her to college, Sami Maurer decided to make one of her own. Today, her storefront in Lindenwood Park sells more than just shirts; it also stocks hats, children’s clothing, accessories, and more.
Finalists
Alpine Shop
AUDRA
Mortgage
Winner
HomeKey Mortgage: Focusing on new-construction home mortgages, HomeKey’s goal is to make financing a home an “easy-to-understand and stress-free process.”
Finalists
Golden Oak Lending
Simmons Bank
Golden Oak Lending
Simmons Bank
Outdoor Outfitters
Winner
Alpine Shop: No matter what adventure you seek, Alpine Shop has you covered. With locations in Kirkwood, Chesterfield, and beyond, Alpine Shop carries apparel, footwear, and accessories to accommodate every outdoor need.
Alpine Shop
Finalists
Bass Pro Shops
Field Theory
Pet Daycare / Boarding
Winner
Petropolis: Before Petropolis opened, its owners operated the oldest pet hotel in the country. Today, the family-owned business has two locations—one in St. Charles and one in Chesterfield—and offers daycare, boarding for cats and dogs, grooming, and force-free training.
Finalists
Furtopia Pet Care
Imperial Animal Hospital Boarding and Grooming, LLC
Pet Groomer
Winner
Imperial Animal Hospital Boarding and Grooming, LLC: The animal hospital’s pet grooming services include haircuts, baths, pedicures, ear trimming, and more.
Finalists
Paw Purfect
Petropolis
Pet Store
Winner
Treats Unleashed: This locally owned and operated business has 15 locations across the metro area and carries a wide range of items for pets—and it hand-selects each one. Priding itself on being the “natural place for pets,” the shop sells food, fresh-baked treats, custom pet cakes, and more.
Finalists
Petropolis
Three Tails Parlor and Pantry
Pet Trainer / Obedience School
Winner
PetImpact!: Using positive reinforcement and relationship-based training to help customers connect with their dogs, the school emphasizes training with compassion and uses non-confrontational methods.
Finalists
Petropolis
Sky Soldier Dog Training
Photographer
Winner
Brad Prime, Prime Photography: Brad Prime’s work has been published in more than 20 magazines, including Fashion Avenue News and Shotcaller Magazine. He specializes in events, headshots, modeling, and real estate photography.
Finalists
Home Frame Pro
Leave It to Beaver Photography
Record Store
Winner
Vintage Vinyl: The beloved record shop in the Delmar Loop is still going strong after more than four decades. From the latest catchy pop album to timeless vinyls, the store stocks a sea of options—customers can easily while away hours there.
Finalists
Euclid Records
Record Exchange
Resale and Consignment Shop
Winner
Fantastic Finds: Assistance League volunteers manage this Creve Coeur resale shop, where all of the items have been donated. Proceeds go toward the nonprofit’s various programs.
Fantastic Finds
Finalists
NCJW Resale Shop
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Shoe Store
Winner
Laurie’s Shoes: For decades, Laurie’s Shoes has put extra emphasis on service. Customers can come in, have their feet measured, and try a range of shoes for the best fit. Expect a personally tailored experience from the moment you walk through the door.
Finalists
Cleary’s Shoes & Boots
Seliga Shoes
Shopping Center
Winner
West County Center: The Des Peres mall has more than 150 stores, including Apple, Barnes & Noble, Bath & Body Works, Sephora, and more. Kiddos can also take a ride on the miniature train on the ground floor.
Finalists
The Meadows at Lake Saint Louis
Plaza Frontenac
Tattoo Shop
Winner
Thirteen Roses Tattoo: Established in 2019, this artist-owned creative collective in Maryland Heights includes artists who specialize in a range of styles and can also do microblading and lash extensions. The shop is appointment-based but takes walk-ins when possible.
Finalists
Beauté Brows
Steel & Ink Studio
Travel Agency
Winner
Altair Travel & Cruises: From a quaint four-person basement office to an agency in Brentwood with more than 50 agents, Altair is one of the largest full-service travel agencies in the region. It can help plan both domestic and international trips, including business travel, family travel, cruises, honeymoons, and more.
Altair Travel & Cruises
Finalists
Brentwood Travel
Sky High Travel
Veterinarian
Winner
Dr. John Bates | Imperial Animal Hospital, LLC: Dr. John Bates has been synonymous with Imperial Animal Hospital for decades: He became the animal hospital’s owner in 1986, after starting out as a volunteer and earning his doctorate in veterinary medicine.
Finalists
Dr. Lynn Meyer | Barrett Station Veterinary Clinic
Dr. Seth Williams | MetroVet
JUMP TO SECTION
Arts & Entertainment / Automotive / Beauty / Food & Drink / Health & Wellness / Home & Garden / Shopping & Services / Weddings / EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS / 2023 A-LIST AWARDS
Weddings
Lovergirl Bridal (Best Wedding Dress Boutique)
Wedding Cakes and Desserts
Winner
The Blue Owl Bakery: The Kimmswick institution and its famous Levee High Apple Pie has been featured on the Food Network, The Travel Channel, Today, and as one of Oprah’s favorite things. So for the big day, it’s well worth considering for a custom cake or dessert buffet.
The Blue Owl Bakery
Finalists
Made. by Lia
Sugar & Slice Bakery on Main
Wedding Caterer
Winner
Hog Call Barbeque: With its delectable slow-smoked meats cooked over high-quality hickory, Hog Call is a crowd-pleaser. It provides pickup, delivery, and full catering services, including a food truck for St. Louis–area events.
Hog Call Barbeque
Finalists
Sugarfire Events
Taste of Graze
Wedding Dress Boutique
Winner
Lovergirl Bridal: Located in The Grove, Lovergirl fits brides-to-be in the perfect dress for the big day. It carries eight dress designers and plenty of accessories. Dresses are made to order in sizes ranging from 0 to 30.
Finalists
The Bridal Parlour
Mia Grace Bridal
Wedding Entertainment
Winner
Show Me Sound: Since 2011, Show Me Sound has offered fully customizable music experiences for weddings, corporate events, and memorable nights out.
Finalists
Dave’s DJ & Karaoke
Spin Society DJs
Wedding Florist
Winner
Cultivated Blooms: The full-service wedding and event florist has contemporary designs and modern arrangements, as well as more traditional floral bouquets. Owner Marisa Douty wears many hats: wedding planner, designer, florist… She prides herself on creating the dream atmosphere for those tying the knot—a true labor of love.
Cultivated Blooms
Finalists
Root & Relic
Sisters Floral Design Studio
Root & Relic
Wedding Formalwear
Winner
Savvi Formalwear: At Savvi, wedding parties can make an appointment for a professional stylist to help select the perfect gowns. Beyond weddings, Savvi has options for a range of formal events: proms, corporate events, and more.
Finalists
Boulevard Bride
Tailored Gents at Savile Row
Wedding Hair
Winner
Posh Beauty: Posh Beauty is a one-stop shop, with freelance hair stylists and makeup artists to ready brides-to-be and their bridal parties for the celebration.
Finalists
Brooke A. Mulholland Makeup Artistry
The Face & The Body
Wedding Hotels and Lodging
Winner
Ameristar Casino Resort Spa St. Charles: Beyond Ameristar’s quality entertainment and gaming, the Resort Spa in St. Charles has become a prime destination for out-of-town wedding guests. Ameristar features a vast range of entertainment opportunities, dining options, and room layouts.
Finalists
The Cheshire
Le Méridien St. Louis Clayton
Wedding Makeup
Winner
Posh Beauty: Posh Beauty offers hair and makeup services at the site of the wedding venue, as well as at the salon’s St. Peters location. With approximately 35 freelance hair stylists and makeup artists, Posh has more than 100 years of combined experience in the bridal industry.
Finalists
Brooke A. Mulholland Makeup Artistry
The Face & The Body
Wedding Photographer
Winner
Sophie Axie Mae Photo: Having photographed more than 100 weddings, the St. Charles–based photographer strives to capture each couple’s special day with beauty and authenticity.
Sophie Axie Mae Photo
Finalists
Brad Prime, Prime Photography
Kaylee Elizabeth Photography
Kaylee Elizabeth Photography
Wedding Planner
Winner
Cultivated Events Co.: At Cultivated Events Co., Marisa Douty and Molly Reiher offer fully customizable service packages, whether it be day-of coordination or a unique cocktail station.
Finalists
Events by Megan
Nicole Marshall Brock Events
Wedding Rentals
Winner
Seated STL: Founder Tammi Camp has spent more than a decade as a wedding photographer and now maintains a wedding rental company, Seated STL. With her design-forward thinking, Camp fuses European and coastal aesthetics for Midwest weddings and events.
Finalists
Styled + Staged STL
Weinhardt Party Rentals
Wedding Stationery
Winner
Simply Torn Art + Design: St. Louis native Christa Pfile Gleich meets with each client to understand their ideal aesthetic before capturing their themes and interests in elegant, professional stationery.
Finalists
Artfully Overjoyed
Creatives By Casey
Wedding Transportation
Winner
Platinum Transportation: With a range of vehicles (SUVs, limos, vans, buses, and beyond), Platinum offers professionally trained chauffeurs and luxury services for weddings, proms, anniversaries, and any other special night out.
Finalists
JED Transportation
StL Crew Shuttle
Wedding Venue
Winner
The Franklin of Soulard: Situated in a 120-year-old building in Soulard, The Franklin is a timeless ballroom. With a candlelit mezzanine and dressing-room amenities, it’s the perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding service and reception.
Finalists
Haue Valley
Loveland Estates
Wedding Videographer
Winner
Brad Prime, Prime Photography: Prime has extensive experience as a wedding photographer and videographer. With high-quality HDR footage and drone footage capacities, he beautifully captures the special day from every angle.
Finalists
First Twin Films
Metrospect Media
JUMP TO SECTION
Arts & Entertainment / Automotive / Beauty / Food & Drink / Health & Wellness / Home & Garden / Shopping & Services / Weddings / EDITORS’ CHOICE AWARDS / 2023 A-LIST AWARDS