Posted by Andrea Durway
Maplewood Named a Hipster City
Just this morning, St. Louis Magazine reported on a study done by Yelp and realtor.com that ranked Maplewood number 14 out of 50 on a list of the “hottest hipster markets in America.” The list identifies the most in-demand housing markets in the U.S. with the highest concentrations of “hipster” businesses for home buyers looking to embrace indie culture.
Maplewood has been near and dear to my heart since I lived in a true Laverne & Shirley style basement apartment at Maple & Hazel Avenues. Back then, I walked to my part-time job at the fabric store (now home to Bolyyards Meat & Provisions and Living Room Coffee Cafe). And I cannot possibly count how many late night grilled cheese sandwiches I consumed at Tiffany’s Diner while listening to the juke box or how many times I bowled with friends at Saratoga Lanes.
What I still love about Maplewood is that it has been able to retain so much of its old school charm while still bringing in new businesses. Instead of typical chains that can come in and ruin the vibe, many of the establishments are local and/or unique specialty shops that really reflect the community. Immediate examples that come to mind are Mauhaus cat cafe and lounge, Roughneck Beard Company, and Planet Score Records. Schlafly Bottleworks entry into Maplewood in 2003 played a part in anchoring activity along the main strip. And there are so many great restaurants (Acero, Asador Del Sure, Side Project Pizza, The Crow’s Nest, Robin, The Blue Duck, Michael’s Bar and Grill)..
