On this episode of The Sauce podcast, host and Sauce executive editor Lauren Healey sits down with Will Smith, developer of City Foundry STL, to explore the vision and challenges behind one of St. Louis’ most ambitious redevelopment projects.

We also discuss:

• How a trip to Atlanta’s Krog Street Market sparked the idea for a St. Louis food hall
• The hurdles of transforming a contaminated, long-abandoned foundry into a thriving destination
• The hidden history that inspired speakeasy None of the Above (NoDa)
• Balancing local food concepts with national entertainment anchors
• What’s next at City Foundry, from new tenants to family-friendly play spaces

📖 Want more? Pick up the August issue of Sauce Magazine, featuring 12 Reasons Why We Love City Foundry STL, on stands now or at saucemagazine.com.

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. Louis
• What it was like when the May 16, 2025, tornado damaged some of his businesses
• Feel-good moments that confirm he’s in the right profession

Three of Ben’s picks from his top 10 St. Louis restaurants: The full list goes live on Wednesday, Aug. 20, at saucemagazine.com.