Central West End: Corners of the world meet
The Central West End is a place where all of the corners of the world meet- right here in St. Louis.
This area of St. Louis reached full development in the late 1800s, with the architecture frenzy of the 1904 World’s Fair ultimately leading to an array of classic buildings to set the precedent for this beautiful private area.
The Central West End takes great pride in neighborhood organizations that create a united spirit among residents and visitors.
Geographically, the Central West End lies in the center of St. Louis to the west of the Midtown area, directly across from Forest Park.
Cathedral Square is an important neighborhood that is defined by its cul-de-sacs and beautiful residential living.
It is known as the special business district, where the historic Fullerton’s Westminster Place- as well as the landmark Catholic church, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis- is located.
The Cathedral is acclaimed for standing as a testament to both Byzantine and Romanesque style structure, as well as housing the world’s largest collection of mosaic art.
The charm of the area is infectious, as cafes line the street, art galleries appeal to the imagination and upbeat boutiques and relaxing pubs provide a wide variety of ways to enjoy the true St. Louis spirit of life.
Restaurants
The Central West End is entirely famous for the dining along the streets and trendy flavors that will entertain all selective palates.
A unique event that is very popular is a “mirthday,” in which a restaurant is selected monthly to have a happy hour in which the community gathers to enjoy company and great new tastes.
Special restaurants in this diverse area of St. Louis range from sweet and savory Bissinger’s Chocolate Lounge, to the Drunken Fish sushi restaurant, to the Cupcakery- which stands as Missouri’s first gourmet cupcake shop and is sure to win over your sweet tooth.
Entertainment
This area of St. Louis is known for hosting a variety of events to maintain its eclectic standards.
A well-known annual event that is held in June is the Central West End Association’s Art Fair and Taste, which features a diverse array of over 60 regional artists, as well as a popular film festival.
In regard to daily enjoyment, many restaurants in the Central West End offer live music, including the Drunken Fish sushi bar and the West End Grill and Pub.
The Chase Park Plaza Cinema is a great place to catch the latest movies; this popular movie venue that is a historic building with a lot of character and entertainment value.
Attractions
Aside from the tantalizing food, stylish music and beautiful homes that comprise the Central West End, there are even more events and galleries to explore in this neighborhood.
An outstanding life-sized bronze sculpture of Pope John Paul II is located outside of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, and this was erected in honor of Pope John Paul II’s visit to St. Louis in 1999.
The Chase Park Plaza is being newly renovated with hotel accommodations, as well as private residences.
A unique place to check out in the Central West End is the Third Degree Glass Factory, which features beautiful displays of blown glass, and for those who like to get creative with their wine, the Vino Gallery is a must see in this neighborhood.