A Musical Feast: Pairing Culinary Delights with Muny's 2026 Season
The Muny's 2026 season promises a delightful blend of entertainment and culinary adventures. As an avid theater enthusiast and foodie, I'm thrilled to explore the unique dining experiences that complement each musical performance. Get ready for a journey through time and taste, as we uncover the perfect pre-show meals to enhance your Muny experience!
Hairspray: A Taste of Baltimore's Finest
Imagine stepping into the vibrant 1960s Baltimore, where the romantic comedy 'Hairspray' takes place. The city's culinary claim to fame? Luxurious crab cakes! For a truly authentic experience, I'd recommend two spots. Matt McGuire's Wright's Tavern offers a refined dining experience with their baked Maryland blue crab cakes, but be prepared for a wait. Alternatively, McGuire's Box Hill Grocer provides a convenient grab-and-go option, perfect for a picnic before the show.
Now, here's a fun twist: if you want to go all out, Broadway Oyster Bar is the place to be. This restaurant embraces the Maryland-to-St. Louis connection, serving up a trio of crab cakes with a Cajun-Creole twist. It's a culinary nod to the show's setting, with a side of local flavor.
Shrek's Fairytale Feast
Shrek's culinary world is a whimsical blend of fiction and reality. While the giant turkey leg might be the first thing that comes to mind, I'd argue that the essence of Shrek's cuisine lies in its heartiness. Mositos captures this perfectly with their tender turkey legs, available for pickup or delivery. But for a truly immersive experience, The Scottish Arms, a Victorian-style pub, offers a taste of the English countryside. And for a sweet treat, Twisted Rolls Chimney Cake lets you indulge in Donkey's famous waffles!
South Pacific: Island Flavors
Transporting audiences to a lush island during World War II, 'South Pacific' calls for a tropical dining experience. Buzz's Hawaiian Grill, a family-run gem, serves up authentic Hawaiian dishes like Kalua pig and poke. For a more modern twist, Yellowbelly offers coastal interpretations of seafood classics, along with unique cocktails. It's like bringing a piece of the South Pacific to your palate!
Disney's Newsies: A Taste of the Big Apple
New York City's iconic pizza scene takes center stage in 'Disney's Newsies.' La Pizza in University City delivers a slice of the Big Apple with its NYC-style pies, a must-try for expats craving a taste of home. But if you're looking for a more formal dining experience, Aubrey is the place to be. This restaurant-lounge captures the essence of iconic New York dining rooms, complete with vintage scenes of the city. It's like stepping into a time machine and savoring the flavors of old New York.
Ain't Too Proud: Detroit's Pizza and Middle Eastern Delights
Detroit's culinary scene shines in 'Ain't Too Proud,' with its unique pizza style and rich Middle Eastern influences. Nicky Slices, a popular Instagram-ordering concept, offers Detroit-style pizza with a crispy crust and airy dough. For a more diverse dining experience, Sameem Afghan Restaurant and Sultan Mediterranean Restaurant showcase the city's Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors, featuring kabobs and an array of rice dishes.
Meet Me In St. Louis: A Gateway to Classic Cuisine
What better way to celebrate St. Louis than with its iconic toasted ravioli? The Hill, with its plethora of Italian restaurants, is a foodie's paradise. Anthonino's, Trattoria Marcella, and STL Toasted each offer their take on this classic dish. But don't stop there; Monte Bello, St. Louis' oldest pizzeria, is a must-visit for pizza lovers. And for a sweet ending, Clementine's Naughty & Nice Creamery serves up locally made ice cream flavors, including the famous gooey butter in a waffle cone—a nod to the 1904 World's Fair.
Something Rotten!: London's Global Culinary Fusion
London's culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, and 'Something Rotten!' captures this perfectly. While fish and chips are a classic, the city's love for global cuisine shines through with chicken tikka masala as its unofficial national dish. Himalayan Yeti offers a taste of both Indian and Nepali cuisine, while Extra Wavy in Lafayette Square presents a unique twist on fish and chips, served with their signature salt-and-vinegar fries.
The Ultimate Pre-Show Experience
In my opinion, these dining recommendations are more than just meal suggestions; they're an invitation to immerse yourself in the world of each musical. It's about creating a sensory experience that enhances the theater-going journey. From Baltimore's crab cakes to London's fusion cuisine, each dish tells a story, adding depth and flavor to the Muny's 2026 season.
Personally, I find it fascinating how food can transport us to different places and times, just like a musical. These pairings are not just about satisfying hunger; they're about creating a holistic experience, where taste, culture, and entertainment intertwine. So, before you head to the Muny, consider making a reservation or packing a picnic basket—it's all part of the show!
