Downtown St. Louis Restaurant Week returns, spotlighting 25+ eateries through Oct. 26. Also today: Rep. Cori Bush’s campaign faces a cash crunch; city leaders renew focus on vacant properties; a new apartment complex breaks ground in St. Charles; and St. Louis Public Schools update tornado repair timelines.

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Restaurant Week Returns

Downtown St. Louis Restaurant Week began yesterday and runs through Sunday, Oct. 26, inviting diners to enjoy special menus and discounts at more than 25 downtown eateries. The event is organized by Greater St. Louis, Inc., and Explore St. Louis.

Participating restaurants range from local favorites to nationally known spots, aiming to showcase the variety and creativity of St. Louis chefs. Organizers say the week not only spotlights culinary talent but also highlights restaurants’ contributions to the city’s economic growth. More venues may be added as the week progresses.

Special offerings and limited-time menus will continue through Sunday. For the latest list of participating restaurants and current deals, visitors can check the event’s official website. The celebration underscores the ongoing role of restaurants in supporting downtown’s development and reputation as a dining destination.

AROUND TOWN

St. Charles officials have approved a 213-unit apartment complex near Highway 364’s south side. The development, called Boulders at Southpointe, received city council backing after public discussion and will increase residential options in a fast-growing part of the metro area. The developer, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, plans to break ground later this year after addressing remaining permitting requirements. Supporters cite housing demand, while some neighbors have raised concerns about traffic and infrastructure impacts details here.

St. Louis is expanding its global reputation as an agtech hub by supporting international startups through new initiatives. The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center’s Core Facilities Access Fund, launched via Cultivar STL and financed by Breakthrough Energy Discovery (Bill Gates-backed), awarded support to Argentina’s APOLO Biotech and Costa Rica’s Innovaciones Circulares to utilize the center’s research, greenhouses, and expert network. BioSTL recently debuted a partnership with India’s AgVaya LLP to attract more foreign agtech companies, further boosting St. Louis’ economic development and international connections. For more, see this coverage of St. Louis’ international agtech strategy.

St. Louis Public Schools plan to reopen some tornado-damaged buildings as early as January 2025. The district, which shuttered seven schools after a May 16 tornado caused $77 million in damages, currently has about 2,000 displaced students at other campuses. Board President Karen Collins-Adams said at a Monday press conference that three to four schools could reopen by January, though the timeline remains tentative. Interim Superintendent Myra Berry was introduced following Millicent Borishade’s dismissal last week; a national superintendent search is underway, targeting July for a permanent hire. Federal, state, and insurance funds will cover some repair costs, but the district faces ongoing financial gaps.

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Cori Bush Campaign Faces Cash Deficit

U.S. Rep. Cori Bush’s re-election campaign continues to face financial challenges, reporting a cash deficit and outstanding debts to multiple vendors. The difficulties come as Bush seeks another term in Missouri’s 1st Congressional District.

Federal filings show Bush’s campaign owes money amid a competitive election year. Local observers note that financial problems could impact her campaign’s strategy and outreach. Bush faces primary opposition as well as questions about her path to November. Read more details in the original reporting.

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Alderman Urges Action on Vacant St. Louis Building

Alderman Shane Cohn is pressing for solutions to address the long-vacant Roosevelt Apartments at S. Grand Blvd and Alberta St. in Dutchtown, which partially collapsed in 2024. The property is now in its second round of litigation as the local neighborhood organization sues the owner for needed repairs.

Nonprofit developers are considering the site for affordable housing. However, Cohn criticizes the city’s lack of proactive building inspections, noting only 10 complaints have been filed with the Citizens Service Bureau this year. Mayor Cara Spencer says restructuring the building division is a high priority. Learn more about the redevelopment push here.

QUICK HITS

Humana and Mercy have launched expanded primary care options in St. Louis, aiming to connect adults 65 and older with personalized, in-network healthcare through the 65 Prime Plus program and online tools.

City of St. Louis is accepting bids until 2 p.m. on Nov. 13, 2025, for roof repairs and replacements at three historic recreation centers, including Wohl, Buder, and 12th & Park.

Gateway Arch National Park has reopened daily through Nov. 2 with community funding partnerships, allowing visitors to celebrate the landmark’s 60th anniversary despite the ongoing government shutdown.

St. Louis City 2 forward Brendan McSorley scored two goals Sunday in the MLS NEXT Pro playoff opener, just one day after playing for City SC's first team.

St. Louis teen Kat Gaylord partnered with Enewton to launch a bracelet, with 100 percent of profits funding pediatric brain tumor research at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.