Westport Plaza has been around since the ‘70s, but it’s experiencing quite the renaissance lately, thanks to a few new head-turning additions and a high-profile “World Wide” neighbor.
In late 2017, World Wide Technology, one of the country’s largest private companies, officially opened its global headquarters in the heart of Westport Plaza, where for years, the golden tower shone as a beacon. These days, WWT’s shiny seven-story building stands alongside, flush with smart-office technology, LEED-certified spaces, and a 300-seat auditorium with a 51-foot-by-12-foot LED screen, one of the largest in North America.
This month, the 42-acre business, dining and entertainment district will welcome the arrival of Kemoll’s. Long a bastion of the St. Louis dining scene, the establishment is moving from its perch atop the Metropolitan Square building downtown and rebranding as Kemoll’s Chop House when it moves to Westport later this month.
From fine dining to fun dining—and even fun and games—Westport has everything covered. There’s Zen dining to be had at Drunken Fish, especially if you’re looking for a quiet business lunch during the work week. If you’re hungry for a burger, look no further than Trainwreck Saloon, where you’ll have to decide if you want classic, grass-fed or bison before you tell them whether you want it medium or well done. And those seeking more casual fare (with a side of darts or bocce ball) should head on over to Westport Social, the place to be for the big game, or just to start your own little game of pop-a-shot or ping pong. The ambience is just right, and perfect for a first date, a family or a group of friends.
AVENUE Q
at the Playhouse @ Westport Plaza
The three-time Tony Award-winning musical, “Avenue Q,” is on an extended engagement at the Playhouse through March 17, so be sure to reserve your seats now! The winner of the Tony “triple crown” (Best Book, Best Musical, Best Score) in 2004, “Avenue Q” tells the story of life in New York City through a cast of people and puppets. And while puppets are front and center, it’s not recommended for kids younger than 13. (Adult situations abound, such as mature language and full-puppet nudity. It’s also important to note that “Avenue Q” is not authorized, approved or affiliated with the Jim Henson Company or Sesame Workshop.)
Performances through March 17:
Wednesdays & Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.
Fridays at 7:30 p.m.
Saturdays at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Sundays at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $50 and $75; call (314) 534-1111 or metrotix.com
(Note: Most restaurants offer a 10-percent discount with a ticket stub, and parking is free in the garage with box-office validation)
IN AND AROUND WESTPORT
Kemoll’s Chop House
Restaurateur Mark Cusumano’s new digs will focus on steaks, chops and fresh seafood. But don’t fret, menu favorites like Steamed Mussels alla Crema, Peruvian Peppadew Peppers and Chef Dan’s Lasagna (going strong for 30 years!) are here to stay. The new Kemoll’s will be open for dinner only at this time, although we’re told that lunch will be offered in the not-so-distant future. kemolls.com
Westport Social
It’s a safe bet it’ll be the center of the universe on Super Bowl Sunday, as well as the march to March Madness and every other major sporting event that’s meant to be enjoyed with hundreds of your closest friends. But Westport Social can also be a cool place to hang out on a lazy weekend afternoon and enjoy a serious game of foosball over a mountain of Burnt End Nachos or Smoked Wings—both excellent choices. You’ll also find an impressive array of draft beer and spirits, but the star here is the cocktail program helmed by master mixologist Kyle Mathis, most recently known for his tenure at Taste. Each one of Mathis’ seasonal cocktails has a personality of its own, and we got along really well with the Winter Savory, the Auto Pilot, the Tiki and the Almond Granita. westportsocial-stl.com
