Neighborhood augments international flavor

South Grand is often called the “International Community” of St. Louis.

An ethnically diverse neighborhood, South Grand is not only close, but also safe and affordable.

With an eclectic variety of boutiques, restaurants and coffee shops, you will not be disappointed with the great people-watching opportunities.

The neighborhood consists of turn-of-the-century architecture and the historic brownstone houses that are home to residents of diverse nationalities, races, ages and sexual orientations.

This charming, authentic neighborhood lies between Arsenal and Utah, along South Grand.

Restaurants

It is recommended you try something new in South Grand.

With such diverse options for dining, why choose something ordinary?

Pho Grand is a vegetarian-friendly Vietnamese restaurant with entrees between $10-15.

If you are looking for something a little cheaper, you could visit Chimichanga Mexican and try their classic Chile Verde.

Although not terribly adventurous, dining at the City Diner is a must for Saint Louis University students.

This typical ’50s themed diner has surprisingly good burgers, and they serve breakfast at any time.

But if exotic is your style, feast on Middle Eastern food at Al Waha Restaurant and Hookah Lounge or on Thai food at the King & I.

Entertainment

The Upstairs is a great place to go to dance and hear some local DJs spin every night of the week.

The Upstairs is located on the corner of Grand Boulevard and Hartford Street.

But the best way to find music in South Grand is at restaurants that host live music and entertainment.

If you enjoy jazz, it is essential that you check out the Dave Stone Trio at Mangia Italiano.

They perform at the Italian bistro every Friday night at 10.

At Café Natasha, you can sample some shish-ka-bob and watch belly dancers perform at night.  And if you so choose, feel free to enroll in some dance classes at Floored on Grand.  They offer a variety of courses, from swing dance to Flamenco.

Attractions

There is no way you can live in St. Louis without trying Ted Drewes Frozen Custard.

There are two locations in South Grand alone, and they make for great hang-out spots.  Merb’s Candies, another way to satisfy your sweet tooth, has been hand-making chocolates since opening in the 1920s.

In terms of quaint shops, Earth, Wind and Bead (which sells Native American jewelry and art) and Dunaway Books (which sells used and out-of-print books) have some out-of-the-ordinary merchandise.

Some annual events hosted in South Grand are a holiday walk in November, a Chinese New Year celebration in February, a house tour in April, the South Grand Bike Tour in May and the Festival of Nations in June.