St. Louis readers! Today I’m partnering with Soft Surroundings, a St. Louis based women’s clothing line that’s celebrating their 11th birthday in November. The first store opened right down the street from my house this month in 2005 and today they have over 35 stores throughout the country. To celebrate and honor their St. Louis roots (the company is still headquartered in St. Louis), they’ve asked people in the community to share their favorite spots around town while wearing a favorite item from their store.  So without further ado, here I am in the Delmar Loop (a favorite street of mine in St. Louis), wearing the Soft Surroundings’ Cosette Sweater. I chose this top because of the length…I’m always looking for a top that covers my bum while wearing leggings in the Fall and this one fits the bill.

Shop my sweater here.

The Delmar Loop comprises 6 blocks of cafes, music venues and shops in St. Louis. The street got it’s name over 100 years ago because of the streetcars that came from the West and then “looped around” before redirecting to other areas. The Loop was also recently named “One of the Great Streets in America” by the American Planning Association. Here are a few of the reasons I love the Loop:

1. Al Tarboush – This is our go-to for Middle Eastern food. It’s a casual eat-in deli (order the chicken shawarma) or take it to go. Grab the tabbouleh, baba ganoush, garlic hummus, dolmades and pita bread from their refrigerators and call it a day. My kids love this spread as an after school snack.

2. Oso : a style lab A store packed with cool clothing and accessories unlike anywhere else you’ll find in town. Specializing in Indie and local designers, this place is edgy and hip. I always love to stop in and see what owners Jen and Chris have sourced for their shelves.

3. U City Library  There are a lot of libraries in town, but none with as vibrant a children’s program as U City. Led by their fearless children’s librarian, “Miss W” the storytimes at U City Branch are second to none. Miss W is truly an institution, an entertainer and a wealth of children’s literature knowledge. Here is the schedule.

4. Tavolo – this Italian eatery on the eastern end of the loop is a favorite spot. On warm evenings they open the garage style front windows so you get a perfect view of the Loop and can people watch to your hearts content. plus they have parking and there isn’t usually a wait (two rarities in this area). the italian food is authentic and service is always good. Order the meatball and the egplant parmesan.

Are you local? What are some of your favorite spots around town? Or what am I missing in the Loop…share your favorites below!