Let's Go on a Picnic!

Children love them, family reunions are built around them, even companies indulge in them. It is that common thread that weaves relaxation and fun into lasting memories – in short – the summer picnic. With the area's wide range of parks and St. Louis's crown jewel, Forest Park, this town was made for the picnic. They can be simple or elaborate, quietly romantic or a fun family outing, a picnic represents memories waiting to happen. Planning a perfect picnic requires a few basic ingredients. First on the list is a desire to enjoy the great outdoors, the next requirement is a bit more flexible and entails finding likeminded individuals although there is a lot to be said for the solitude of a quiet one-person affair. Aside from the participants, the focal point of a truly memorable picnic is the food. By its very nature, planning a picnic menu need not be a cause for stress. There are area restaurants ready to serve the needs of both the picnic planner and the spur of the moment enthusiast alike.

Two local eateries are offering their Forest Park Picnic Packs that make both the impromptu and the planned event a breeze. A portion of the proceeds from every bag goes to help Forest Park Forever in support of their efforts to maintain a vibrant Forest Park. If you are beginning your day of dining out from the Central West End, Taste of Lebanon on Euclid Avenue has a menu built for the picnic. Create your middle eastern inspired outing with shawarma, falafel, pita chips and hummus, babaganoush, kibbe or any of a dozen other options.

Have you found yourself in Clayton overcome with the need for a park adventure? If you are in the "sandwiches make the perfect picnic" camp, it would be difficult to find a better variety than those of Anthony's Italian Eats on Wydown Boulevard. The classic "Old Fashion" is an all- around favorite when it comes to dining in the great outdoors. The Turkey Caprese offers up a contemporary approach while the crowd pleasing Muffuletta Round will feed the crew. No matter your choice, a sandwich from Anthony's Italian Eats will fill that sandwich craving in style.

Don't let one of the most relaxing joys of summer pass you by this season. Get out and experience an al fresco afternoon in a park of your choice today.