Wash Ave. Food Hall Opens With Eight Vendors Ahead of Mizzou-SLU Rivalry
The new dining space targets a gap in evening downtown activity and hosts weekend events including a vintage market and NFL viewing.
By Luana Sato ·
Eight food vendors opened their doors Friday at the new Wash Ave. Food Hall in St. Louis, creating a gathering spot for residents and fans ahead of the Missouri-Saint Louis basketball game. The matchup marked the return of the rivalry after a 25-year hiatus.
The facility aims to address a specific lack of evening options in the downtown corridor. A July survey of the local community identified a demand for more businesses and places to gather. Al Anderson, a downtown resident, told KMOV that the scarcity of open businesses along Washington Avenue during evening hours is a primary barrier to daily foot traffic.
Andrew Cook, a Missouri fan, used the venue to meet a friend and order tacos before tipoff. He stated that the casual atmosphere, which includes seating for food and drinks, made the downtown trip feasible. Cook predicted an easy victory for Missouri. Quinlan Chavez, a Saint Louis fan, noted the strategic location of the hall for game days, describing a routine where attendees could park, eat, and walk to City SC games.
David Bickel, the bar manager, said the space serves the nearby residential population. He explained that neighbors can visit for lunch or dinner, socialize, and play games in close proximity to their homes. The physical layout includes table seating, a bar, and a lawn area designated for activities.
The grand opening weekend features specific events to draw crowds. A vintage market and cornhole tournament are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The venue will host an NFL watch party beginning at 11 a.m. on Sunday.
