On this episode of The Sauce podcast, host and Sauce executive editor Lauren Healey sits down with acclaimed restaurateur Ben Poremba to explore the roots of his culinary journey, how his heritage shapes his cooking, and what’s new in the Bengelina Hospitality Group.We also discuss:The challenges and rewards of running restaurants in St. LouisWhat it was like when the May 16, 2025, tornado damaged some of his businessesFeel-good moments that confirm he’s in the right professionThree of Ben’s picks from his top 10 St. Louis restaurants: The full list goes live on Wednesday, Aug. 20, at saucemagazine.com.
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The Sauce Trailer
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64 - Meals That Changed My Life
In this final episode of The Sauce, Meera Nagarajan, executive editor, discusses leaving Sauce Magazine after 16 years. She shares a few memories from her time working at the magazine and the St. Louis meals that changed her life.You can continue to find copies of the monthly print magazine the first Wednesday of the month and daily updates on the website at SauceMagazine.com. To all listeners of The Sauce, we thank you for tuning in each week. It has been a pleasure and an honor to serve you.
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63 - Most Affordable Steak in Town
This week Meera and Michelle discuss a visit to CITYPARK, where the vegan kebab at Balkan Treat Box and the bacos at Saucy Porka stood out. Also in the conversation was a visit to Blues City Deli where their take on the tuna melt, the fiesty tuna sandwich, was a knockout. A recent trip to Tucker's Place solidifies that this steak house is serving up one of the most affordable steaks in town.CITYPARK2100 Market St., St. LouisBalkan Treat BoxSaucy PorkaBlues City Deli2438 McNair Ave., St. Louis, 314-773-8225Tucker's Place4 Hands + Peacemaker Kirkwood150 W. Argonne Dr., KirkwoodFirst Look: 4 Hands + Peacemaker Kirkwood
For over 25 years, Sauce Magazine has been the go-to guide for St. Louis’ best culinary experiences. Now, The Sauce podcast is back with a new host and a renewed mission: to take listeners behind the scenes with the incredible people shaping the local hospitality industry – from chefs and restaurateurs to brewers, bartenders, bakers and beyond.Hosted by Sauce Magazine’s executive editor Lauren Healey, who has spent her career honing her writing, editing and photography skills at various media outlets in the Midwest, the show blends insider stories with inspiration on where to eat and drink right now. Since joining Sauce in 2018, Lauren’s passion for St. Louis’ culinary scene has only deepened, fueling her pride in calling the city home and her drive to help you discover your next great meal.
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