Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust: Soul Food & Closure In St. Louis

Is it possible for a restaurant to become a cultural landmark, a family's legacy, and a television sensation all at once? For Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust in St. Louis, Missouri, the answer was a resounding yes, but as the doors close, the sweet taste of success is tempered by the bittersweet reality of change.

The aroma of soul food, the warmth of Southern hospitality, and the drama that unfolded within its walls made Sweetie Pie's more than just a restaurant; it was an experience. Located at 3643 Delmar Blvd in St. Louis, the establishment became a celebrated destination, known for its comforting dishes and the familial atmosphere fostered by its owner, Miss Robbie Montgomery. For years, guests flocked to savor the acclaimed peach cobbler, sweet potato pie, and pecan pie a symphony of flavors that defined the restaurant's identity. The offerings extended beyond the delectable desserts, with a selection of refreshing lemonade, ice tea, and juice completing the culinary experience. The intimate ambiance was perfect for unwinding, making Sweetie Pie's a haven after a long day's work.

The legacy of Sweetie Pie's extends beyond the delicious meals and the welcoming environment. The reality television show, "Welcome to Sweetie Pie's," broadcast on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), offered audiences a glimpse into the Montgomery family's life, their struggles, and their triumphs. The show showcased the dynamics of the family-run business, the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and the importance of family bonds. The presence of the show brought immense visibility to the restaurant, transforming it into a popular destination for both local residents and visitors from afar. Even Oprah Winfrey made a memorable visit, underscoring the restaurant's cultural impact.

Category Details
Name Robbie Montgomery (Miss Robbie)
Occupation Restaurateur, Former Singer
Birthdate November 27, 1940 (approximate)
Birthplace St. Louis, Missouri
Known For Owner of Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust restaurant, star of "Welcome to Sweetie Pie's"
Career Highlights
  • Singer with the Ikettes (backup singers for Ike & Tina Turner)
  • Owner of Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust (multiple locations)
  • Star of "Welcome to Sweetie Pie's" reality TV show
  • Voted Favorite Soul Food Restaurant in St. Louis (June 2022)
Legacy Established a successful soul food restaurant that became a St. Louis institution and a symbol of family and community.
Reference Website Oprah.com

However, the story of Sweetie Pie's, like life itself, is marked by transitions. The original empire, once encompassing multiple locations, was eventually pared back, leaving the Delmar Boulevard establishment as the final bastion of Miss Robbie's culinary vision. Yet, the restaurant persevered, maintaining its reputation for excellence and receiving accolades, including being voted the favorite soul food restaurant in St. Louis in the Sauce Reader's Choice Awards as recently as June 2022. This recognition underscored the enduring popularity and quality of the establishment.

The news of the closure came as a poignant moment for the community and fans of the restaurant. Announced on social media, the last day of service was scheduled for Sunday, September 25th, at 6 p.m. The primary reason cited for the closure was the expansion of the John Cochran Veterans Hospital, a factor that highlighted the changing landscape of the neighborhood. The restaurant's departure from the Delmar Loop location signified not only the end of an era but also the physical and symbolic transformation of a familiar space.

The impact of Sweetie Pie's extended beyond its culinary offerings. The staff, known for their gracious service, contributed to the welcoming atmosphere that made the restaurant so special. The countless positive reviews and the recommendation to try the peach cobbler, sweet potato pie, and pecan pie further solidified its standing as a must-visit destination. The restaurant's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, including those used for its morning pastries, specialty cakes, cheesecakes, pies, cookies, bars, and wedding cakes, ensured that every dish met the high expectations of its customers. Sweetie Pie's also provided a space for community, serving as a place to relax, enjoy a coffee, and relish in its delicious desserts.

In the midst of change, the possibility of a comeback was briefly considered, with plans announced for a new location at Kingshighway and Dr. Martin Luther King Drive. This venture was even allocated a $1.5 million grant, a testament to the community's desire to see Sweetie Pie's thrive. However, this comeback never fully materialized.

The closure announcement also stirred memories of the past. The location at Sweetie Pie's on Grand and Delmar Blvd served as a reminder of the restaurant's growth. The experience of visitors, such as those who traveled from Indiana to meet Miss Robbie, further highlighted the personal connections made at the establishment. The warmth of Miss Robbie's personality, evident in her interactions with customers, left a lasting impression. Though some experiences were marred by issues in service, the restaurant still earned a positive reputation.

The reality of the end of Sweetie Pie's, as it stood in its Delmar Loop location, presented a moment for reflection on the restaurant's significance. It provided opportunities to enjoy its comforting food, to recall the episodes of the television show, and to celebrate the cultural impact of Miss Robbie Montgomery. From the stories and memories shared by those who visited, to the flavors that left a distinct mark, Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust carved out a special place in the hearts of many.

For those seeking a taste of the familiar or wanting to create their own version of sweet treats, the original recipes can be found online, a testament to the owner's passion. As the chapter closes on the Delmar Boulevard location, the Sweetie Pie's legacy continues to live on. The memories and the recipes will continue to inspire others to create delicious food and share the same spirit of community and warmth that characterized the restaurant. While the physical space of Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust may disappear, the spirit of Miss Robbie and her family will remain, influencing the community and the world of soul food for years to come.

The closure marks not just the end of a restaurant, but also of a chapter in the history of St. Louis soul food and a testament to the power of family, food, and television. Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust provided a space that was more than just a restaurant, with an atmosphere that brought people together.

The restaurant's impact on the community, coupled with its delicious food and gracious service, makes it clear that Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust was, and will continue to be remembered, as a St. Louis icon.

Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust, 3643 Delmar Blvd 3617 in St. Louis
Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust, 3643 Delmar Blvd 3617 in St. Louis
Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust, 3643 Delmar Blvd 3617 in St. Louis
Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust, 3643 Delmar Blvd 3617 in St. Louis
Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust, 3643 Delmar Blvd 3617 in St. Louis
Sweetie Pie's Upper Crust, 3643 Delmar Blvd 3617 in St. Louis

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