Discover Rouge Bistro, the elegant restaurant bar poised to elevate Midtown’s social scene. Learn about the challenges it faces from neighboring businesses and hear insights from visionary Julian Davis.
Courtesy of Julian Davis
As Black History Month unfolds, I want to highlight Julian Davis, a notable contractor in St. Louis who is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for all to enjoy. Unfortunately, he is encountering criticism and hostility from neighboring businesses, and I believe it’s important to bring attention to this issue.
Rouge Bistro, an elegant restaurant bar poised to make a significant mark on Midtown’s landscape, now faces the threat of cancellation due to opposition from neighboring businesses. I had the pleasure of speaking with my friend Julian Davis, the visionary behind this ambitious project.
He recognized the potential of a spacious location near Harris Stowe State University and Pappy’s BBQ, aiming to bring a vibrant atmosphere to the area. However, several businesses in the vicinity have banded together to petition against Rouge Bistro’s bid for a liquor license.
I attempted to reach out to one of the signatories of the petition, but my call has not yet been returned. In the interest of providing a balanced perspective, I have shared press releases from one of the petitioners and am eager to gather their insights on this matter for an upcoming update.
In the interim, let’s delve into the vision of Julian Davis and the pressing need for more establishments like Rouge Bistro to enrich the Midtown area.
Julian shared with me that his business has been struggling lately due to ongoing issues with his liquor license. As a result, he has had to pause his lunch service, which had been thriving.
Unfortunately, factors like the weather and other complications have also impacted his operations. Below is the original review from Sauce Magazine copied by the former Riverfront Time, and some pictures of his menu, which has received high praise since its grand opening last year.
In conclusion, I sincerely hope that the city of St. Louis can unite in recognizing the importance of establishing more quality African American restaurants in Midtown. Such establishments would provide a welcoming space for students at Harris-Stowe State University and St. Louis University. I find it difficult to understand why there are efforts to petition against allowing this business to serve liquor.
About Rouge Bistro (Sauce Magazine review)
Rouge Bistro, a meatball-centric eatery inspired by New York City’s Meatball Shop, made its debut in Midtown last year, taking over the space once occupied by Olive Bar at 3037 Olive Street.
Owner Julian Davis has created a stunning ambiance. With bold red walls, industrial ceilings, and lighting reminiscent of a New York runway, Rouge Bistro is visually striking, even before you factor in the waterfall at the entrance. Spanning an impressive 3,700 square feet, the restaurant accommodates over 300 guests, according to Davis.
Amidst all the vibrant red, the meatballs A La Rouge stand out—a delightful dish featuring four two-ounce beef and pork meatballs served atop bucatini pasta, accompanied by mascarpone, basil, and red sauce. However, the orange chicken balls also catch the eye, served with kimchi fried rice, a sunny-side-up egg, green onions, and sesame seeds. And let’s not overlook the jerk chicken meatballs paired with fried plantains, coconut rice, and peas—each dish showcasing thoughtful culinary design.
However, the enthusiastic owner faces challenges in obtaining a liquor license, as local residents are cautious about the space reverting to its previous nightclub identity. “It was a nightclub, and there were issues,” Davis explains.
The building’s multiple levels and rooftop patio, which offers a partial view of the Arch, hint at a nightlife potential. Yet, although a large crowd gathered for a 314 Day celebration during our visit, Davis emphasizes that “nightlife” is not his focus.
In addition to meatballs, Rouge Bistro boasts 14 creative takes on chicken wings, including flavors like gochujang, bourbon, Sunkist soda, and garlic Parmesan. The menu also features salads, tomato soup and grilled cheese, and kimchi fried rice.
Courtesy of Rouge Bistro
Courtesy of Rouge Bistro
Courtesy of Rouge Bistro
Courtesy of Rouge Bistro
Courtesy of Rouge Bistro
Rouge Bistro, Midtown nightlife, restaurant bar, Julian Davis, business opposition, dining, nightlife, culinary experience, restaurant challenges
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