We just got back from a fantastic weekend in St. Louis visiting Hudson. It always goes by way too quickly — that’s for sure. Brian and I drove in Friday afternoon, stopped at our favorite store, AO&Co, on the way, and then checked into our Airbnb. We weren’t sure of Hudson’s schedule, so we booked it last minute. It was a new host and a new listing, which felt like a bit of a gamble — but it was absolutely perfect. Probably our favorite rental yet. Really comfortable and cute, and in a great area. Hudson met us at the house, and we had a little time before meeting Natalie for dinner, so we wandered the neighborhood and stumbled upon a storefront called Analog that had a real photobooth! They also had a digital one in the basement, but finding the old chemical ones is such a treat. The three of us squeezed in and took three different strips — never mind the one with the two blank shots. We didn’t realize it started immediately when you tapped your credit card, which was kind of hilarious. Afterward, we met Natalie at Basso for dinner, which was absolutely delicious. We called it a night pretty early. Brian was on fumes after a busy work week, and Hudson had just completed his first observation flight that day — so exciting.
The next morning, Hudson came over and we walked to the Tower Grove Farmers’ Market, which was more crowded than I’ve ever seen it. On the way back, Brian and Hudson stopped at Amsterdam Tavern to catch the end of a soccer match. It was only a couple of blocks from our place, so I opted out and met up with them later. We decided to wander around The Hill and stumbled upon the chubbiest dog I’ve ever seen. It was actually kind of sad — but also, how cute was he sticking his little nose out? Poor guy. Next, we stopped by Milo’s Bocce Garden for a snack. Hudson and Natalie are regulars, and we had to try the pizza, complete with St. Louis’s famous Provel cheese. I’m so fascinated by it — and it’s growing on me. In small doses, at least. It was such a fun day just wandering around. That evening, we met up with Natalie (who had worked all day), her mom, and her boyfriend. This was the second time we’d hung out with them, and I knew we were in for a good time. They’re just so easy to be around. They made reservations at The Gin Room, which was such a treat. They’re family friends of Edward’s and took great care of us. Natasha is a gin expert — she literally travels the globe as a gin judge and hosts tastings — and the cocktails were out of this world. And the food! Persian and absolutely delicious. Next, we walked a few steps to their other establishment, Monstera Mezcaleria, run by Natasha’s husband. A mezcaleria and wine bar, of course. The interior was incredible, and the speakeasy behind the bookshelf was such a fun surprise. What a cool family. But the night wasn’t over yet. We had one more stop: Venice Cafe. I’ve never seen anything like it. The entire place is covered in mosaic tiles and wild installations created by the owner himself. Even the bathroom was decked out — I almost wasn’t sure I was allowed to use it. Our St. Louis tour guides really outdid themselves. It was such a blast.
After not nearly enough sleep, it was time to check out. Thankfully, we were able to meet Hudson and Natalie one last time for breakfast before hitting the road. What a great weekend.
