The night market is such a fun and unique time! You will find some one of a kind hand made items…read moreand so much more all while enjoying some great tunes! The people and the vibes are always great to be around. I love it when Night Market season rolls around!

If you know me, you know I'm fascinated by everyday historic landmarks. I prefer the places people…read moredon't always think about - like the Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. So, fun facts. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge is part of the even more historic Route 66. It also helps to connect Missouri and Illinois (and yes, you can walk it - or wheel it in my case). Built in 1929, the bridge features a 30-degree turn halfway across the mile-long bridge. While today this area is very passable by ships, in 1929 a "chain of rocks" (a 17-mile shoal) made passage difficult. Originally designed to go straight across, riverboat men protested because the bridge itself would have created an additional obstacle. Essentially, it had to "bend" for the sake of safe passage. The bridge cost twice its original estimate ($2.5 million), but it was built as a "destination" from the beginning. The Missouri side had a park; the Illinois side had 400 elm trees. There was even an amusement park. Also, during World War II the red sections were painted green so it would be less visible from air. The bridge closed in terms of official function in 1968 - a new Chain of Rocks Bridge opened in 1967 and includes Interstate 270. Old Chain of Rocks Bridge was nearly destroyed in 1967. For several years, that seemed likely. In 1980 (another fun fact), John Carpenter used the bridge in Escape From New York). Obviously, the bridge has been restored to some fame. It's now part of the Route 66 Bikeway (as of 1999), and in 2006 was added to the National Register of Historic Places. I'm considering a Route 66 Tenderness Tour (or at least part of the 2,000+ mile highway). This bridge may become part of that, so I'm thrilled I got the chance to check it out. The pathway for biking/wheeling is nicely done, easy to maneuver, and stunning in beauty (though it was an admittedly beautiful day when I was on the bridge). The bridge offers connections to the MCT Confluence Trail, Mississippi River Trail (Isn't it weird? I've been out of school 30+ years and I still sing the Mississippi song when I spell it), and the St. Louis Riverfront Trail. There's free parking on the Illinois side at the bridge entrance and also at North Riverfront Park. The Missouri side has a park with a pavilion, native habitats, an event lawn, and a gated parking lot (the event space opened in 2024). The bridge, no longer used by vehicles, is open daily for bikers/pedestrians (and wheelchairs).

This old bridge is an awesome piece of Americana history. It is about a 1 mile walk to get across…read morethe bridge. There are 2 castle looking buildings in the ole Mississippi that use to be the water source for the city of St Louis. I would recommend parking on the Missouri side as it has be recently redone. Nice parking lot with picnic tables and overhead protection from the sun. No running water but there are 2 porta potties under an awning. The Illinois side is not as pleasant.

The City of Edwardsville has really come a long way over the years. It's grown into a great college…read moretown while still keeping that welcoming, family-friendly feel. There's a nice balance here--plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from, along with a strong sense of community. Whether you're a student, a family, or just visiting, there's always something to do and somewhere new to check out. Overall, it's a well-rounded area that continues to grow and it's easy to see why so many people enjoy living and spending time here

From my yelp hub of St. Louis to home, you go over the bloodcurdling bridge, past the terrifying…read moretower of trash, left at the horrible hill, and north until you enter the heart of E'ville. My facetious "directions" are inspired by encounters with people who seem fearful of crossing the Mississippi, like the medieval cartographer who wrote on the edge of his map: "Beyond here, there be dragons." In response to this fear, I like to remind people that Edwardsville functions as a "suburb," using the second definition in Webster's Dictionary: "A smaller community ... within commuting distance of a city." I know many residents who commute to downtown for work, and some as far as west county. They'll tell you that the drive to downtown is easier than from places like Wildwood, St. Charles, or Lake St. Louis: commuting time is generally shorter, and morning into St. Louis and evening out, you have the sun at your back rather than in your face. There are at least six ways to approach E'ville, but, if you're coming from St. Louis, three make the most sense. If you happen to be looking for something on the east side of town, you could take I-55 to exit 23, then travel the new Governors' Parkway west. This is the way most people approach if they're coming from northern Illinois, or from eastern outlying areas to shop in grocery stores or strip malls. If you want a peaceful approach that takes you by the northern outskirts of SIUE, and through the historic St. Louis Street residential area, you could travel I-255 north to New Poag Road, then go east. Perhaps the best all-purpose route, not too busy, but takes you by or near restaurants, schools, and shopping, is to travel I-270 to exit #9, then left over the bridge, then veer right on Illinois 157 and northeast up the long hill on the bluff. You'll travel five or six miles through several traffic lights, and end up at the "T" intersection for St. Louis Street, where you'll turn right to find downtown. My LEAST favorite approach is I-270 to exit #12, which takes you north along Illinois 159, Troy Road, sort of the Manchester Road of our area. I've lived in Edwardsville very nearly ten years. It's the seat of Madison County, with a long history (third oldest city in Illinois). The establishment fifty years ago of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville slowly changed the flavor of the community, in many positive ways, I think. I moved here for two reasons: a fine job, and excellent public schools for my children. The bike trails are as good as any you'll find in the metro area. The shopping and dining options get better every year. I don't work for the city or the chamber of commerce, but I want to encourage you to try it sometime. It may be E'ville, but it's really not so scary.

Do you love large breast? If so you need to visit Castelli's and have their fried chicken dinner…read more The breast they serve, are the largest I have ever seen and the accompanying pieces are impressive as well. Thick meaty thighs, curvaceous legs and wings that look as if the chicken has been pumping iron at the local gym. Big pieces, crispy flavorful coating and juicy meat. I primarily do carry-out and the quality of their take out is equally as good as when dining in the restaurant. Pick-up is smooth and fast, as they have a separate entrance and room for take-out. The staff is friendly and very professional. The service has that family owned business feel. If you're a fan of Onion Rings, I recommend enjoying an order as an appetizer. Their rings are super big and made in house. I do not like onion rings that come from a bag. When ordering my sides, I like mashed potatoes with white gravy. They also offer brown gravy, if that is your thing. My other side is always green beans. They make their green beans with bacon and onion. It reminds me of my momma's. With those two sides, it is a true Sunday Chicken Dinner on any day of the week. I've been coming to Castelli's my entire life. I started coming here as a child when it was called, Moonlight. Many of the locals still call it, Moonlight and no-one will correct them, because we all know where they are talking about. Service in the carry-out room is always speedy and friendly. So if you're a fan of fried chicken, I recommend ordering on-line for a pick-up. Or, treat yourself to a night out and dine in the restaurant. Remember to order the onion rings.

First, there is nothing Italian as to the way they cook chicken. They have very little to do with…read morereal Italian food. If you like over cooked pasta, served watery on the plate by all means step right up. The sauce needs help runny and lacks flavor. Perhaps you could go to Italy and truly learn how to present these dishes you claim Italian. Service is lacking and servers are not friendly what so ever. Ambiance is not big in their list to impress. Honestly, just call it a chicken shop, that's what they tell everyone it is. Drop the Italian as you lack the knowledge to properly prepare Italian foods. It does not even rate a 1 star, place needs a good derp cleaning

Everything about this restaurant hits the spot Great food…read moreofferings and excellent staff and service Very nice atmosphere and clean

Santino's is back under the ownership of the original owners. Unfortunately the ones who bought it…read moreabout a year ago did not succeed and the original owners came back to rescue the restaurant. They had a special grand re-opening last night, which I avoided. I knew the crowds would be insane, so I came for their first day serving lunch. I like how the ambiance is old school Italian. White linen table cloths and black linen napkins. The tables are protected it a sheet of butcher paper cut to the exact size. It protects that pretty white linen. As a centerpiece, they have tacky artificial flowers. Table would look better without it. My server was quick to greet me. I ordered a Pino Grigio as my adult beverage. When she delivered my wine, I said I needed more time to look the menu over. When she came back, I asked a couple of questions and went with the chalkboard special, Meat Cannelloni with Spinach Pink Vodka Sauce. It came with a side salad and a breadstick. I chose Bleu Cheese as my dressing. The dressing was thick, creamy and had chunks of Bleu Cheese. The lunch special had two cannelloni's filled with meat and overly covered in a rich pink vodka sauce blended with lots of sautéed spinach. The sauce had good flavor, they just over poured on top of the cannelloni. Luck for me it came with a breadstick to wipe up the extra sauce. My server was attentive. She checked on me a couple of times while I dined. Sonny the owner, was assisting servers and thanking guest for coming back. From what I have heard in the community, everyone is glad Sonny is back in charge. I think they'll be doing just fine.

Order:Split Cup Iced pearl & Turtle. W/ cookie cup…read more Pros: Oh My FREAKIN Goodness!!!! This here is a drank! The cup is creative and amazing! Definitely sets them a part from other coffee spots. I hope they continue to grow and create amazing/creative drinks!!! They're blackowned!!! Cons: 30 min drive from the downtown area and I was a little perturbed. BUT they are opening up a location within the next month downtown so that is AMAZING! So although I was upset at first about the drive, I must say it was worth it!!! Support this Black-owned business!!

This is such a cute little coffee shop!…read more I love the atmosphere, very quiet inside and out. I could read a book or zone out on my laptop here for sure. I do hope they eventually get some cozy seating for a longer visit. So my chosen libations were the cinnamon latte and the green bliss drink. Both were delicious but my absolute favorite is the green bliss drink. It's my favorite so much that I'm openly admitting that I'm writing this review on the parking lot the day after I first drank it and feeding my newfound crave. I'm abandoning Starbucks over it (don't judge me), and very happily feeding my new addiction. Yep.....that word. The cookies and icing from Dough Re Mea were also good. I'm all about supporting local business and thoroughly excited to see more and more small businesses opening in my neighborhood!

Wow. Can't wait to go back. Steak was unreal, pasta just absolutely delicious. Started out the a…read morechocolate martini - the bar was hopping. Smaller place and pretty loud if you're looking for romantic and quiet, but great if you need a little of that vibe. Service was also top-notch. Desserts were on point!

Stopped in for lunch today! I had Tutto Mare and my wife had Chicken Piccata both were delicious! I…read morealso had a Caesar salad which was perfect. The high reviews on this place are correct this place is awesome! The service was prompt and friendly. The restaurant is beautiful and very appealing! We will definitely be back!

This is my 3rd time visiting the fabulous Italian Restaurant. They are wonderfully decorated…read more Beautiful artwork in every area. Wine bottles decorated this amazing place. However there was nothing better than the beautiful art work to come. The food presentation was excellent. The garlic cheesebread is to die for. The Cajun chicken pasta was delicious. The salad was good Customer service was amazing. I know there were other customers but our server made us feel like we were the only customers in the place. Before I could think of asking for something she was bringing it. She kept our drinks filled. She asked if we wanted parmesean cheese on our salads and pasta. These put the cheese on our food. We were going to ask for some to go boxes. But she asked us first. Then she said she would take our food and box it for us. She labeled each one and neatly wrapped it in clear plastic. Most restaurants don't do that anymore. Very classy! There is plenty if parking in this strip mall.

Felt pampered in this old school Italian restaurant. Service attentive and helpful. Lunch prices…read moreso reasonable. Added soup with my meal which was a delicious tomato basil. April specials just started. Tried the cranberry chicken. Fantastic choice! Nice selection of fish, chicken,pastas, pizza and salads. Many gf choices! Full bar service.

We just finished our first Peel Pizza experience, and all I can say is.....WOW!! I took my…read moredaughter, her hubby and their two daughters here. The girls weren't thrilled about eating pizza, but boy, did they change their minds! We started with the pretzel rolls and the goat cheese and pita chips for starters. So so so good! The, we ordered three different pizzas and a calzone. The bourbon and chicken pizza, the potato pizza, and the spicy pepperoni, sausage and bacon pizza, as well as a bacon and tomato calzone. Absolutely delicious! Everybody had pieces of each pizza, and everyone was sated and, frankly, STUFFED! My granddaughters, ages 11 and 14, who can't agree on ANYTHING, told me that whenever they come to visit, I have to take them to Peel! Oh, and our server, whose name I can't recall (sometimer's disease) was super friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. A fantastic experience!!.

What an incredible lunch special, for the low price of $18. You get to choose one item each from…read moretwo sections. The variety of choices allows you to create the perfect lunch. When I saw they had hot honey and pepperoni paired together on a 8" pizza, I instantly knew that was one of my choices. The fresh mozzarella and ricotta cheeses paired with the hot honey and pepperoni exploded with flavor. My only disappointment was the inner crust. The outer rim crust was very crispy, but the inner was soft and limp due to the excessive grease from the flavorful pepperoni. I guess that is something I just need to deal with for a tasty lunch pizza. My other choice was, the Apple Gorgonzola Salad. Wow. Double Wow! This has to be the best salad I have ever had. It was a delightful mix of, spinach, granny smith apple, gorgonzola, sun-dried cranberries, candied pecans, all topped with a delicious maple cider vinaigrette. I will be back for the large version and a glass of Pino Grigio as a dinner. As my usual, I sat at the bar. My adult beverage of choice, was a Peel Summer Lager. I may be going back to fill my growler, for the upcoming holiday weekend. The restaurant has a contemporary feel, but the acoustics make it a loud environment. I didn't mind the laughter and loud conversations, it was the yelling and crying toddlers that made me cringe. Service was friendly and attentive. I enjoyed watching the bartenders use their mixologist skills preparing all the cocktails. It pleased me to see they offer "hooks under the bar". That's a small detail that makes me smile.

I recommend reservations on Saturday. Ambiance is fine…read more Service was good. The cocktails were excellent. Especially loved the espresso martini. Bread was served fast and warm, but a little on the medium side. Caesar salad was good, but not exciting. Toasted ravs were excellent. Hot and crunchy. Chicken spedini was wonderful. Crunchy on the outside and moist on the inside. Nice sauce. We loved the creamy marinara. The salmon was very good. Served on some of the best risotto I've ever had. Portions were good. Prices were very good considering the much higher costs of dining out nowadays. Looking forward to going back. Chicken spedini was wonderful.

You get consistent food, no matter what day what time of the day what time of the year?. the…read moreservice is excellent and it's always clean and polite service with the best possible salads and menu additions on a daily basis. Highly recommend the pizza and the mainstays, which are the chicken spendini!