The Central West End is one of my all time favorite parts of St Louis. Yes, yes…I lived there for 7 years and made friends of a lifetime but even without those fantastic people, just the neighborhood alone would have been worth it. So close to Forest Park that we in fact rode our bikes to fantastic events such as the Great Forest Park Balloon Race  and the Shakespeare Festival.

The historic homes in the Central West End are by far some of the most fantastic architecture that St Louis has to offer. There is so much attention to detail in these old homes. The brickwork, the moldings, the glass and marble and hardwood. House parts that are no longer made part of modern construction. Conversely the Central West End is home to some of the best modern architecture in St Louis. Buildings such as The 100 building and the elegant and modern condo at the 4545 Lindell building are keeping St Louis on the map with cutting edge new construction.

The Central West End has a fantastic neighborhood association as well that keeps community members engaged and informed.

Science, Education and Innovation Just Around the Corner

One of the main draws of The Central West End is it’s proximity to Barnes Jewish Hospital, Washington University and Cortex.

Barnes is not only one of St Louis Cities biggest employers, it also partners with Wash U to provide some of the highest ranked medical education in the country AND world class health care. Part of the Barnes campus includes other institutions such as the Siteman Cancer Center , St Louis School of Pharmacy and the Goldfarb School of Nursing.

The Cortex Innovation Community is just to the east of the Barnes campus and also a major part of the Central West End although a newer addition to the community. The Cortex Community is a 200 acre hub of businesses focused on growth, innovation and technology with the idea that being closer in proximity with each other offers opportunities for growth and learning. Oh, and there happens to be a bunch of great dining on site as well.

Eat, Drink and Play

Some of St Louis’ best dining also happens to be in the Central West End. No matter what part of the West End you find yourself in, throw a rock and you’ll hit something delicious to eat.

The variety of cuisine in the Central West End is outstanding. On the southern end of the CWE are establishments such as Brasserie and BBQ Saloon. I have to add here that the best sushi in St Louis is located in this part of the CWE as well. Sushi Koi always has the absolute freshest sushi in town and some of the best rolls I’ve had. Insider tip…they close between 2:00 and 4:00 every day to prep so if you’re looking for an early happy hour…you’ll have to go somewhere else.

On the north side of the CWE are tow of my other favorite places to have a bite and a cocktail, Pi Pizzeria and Mission Taco. Insider tip at Mission Taco…order the side dish of black beans with your chips and salsa as a makeshift bean dip appetizer.