Vivola Express

Vivola Express is one of those places that makes a serious food lover wonder, “How did I not know about this?”

Since 2001, this family-operated St. Louis sandwich shop has quietly built a cult following around something deceptively simple: really, really good sandwiches. Founded by Steve and Mary Kay Lauck and named after Steve’s mother, Rose Vivola, the shop has become an STL institution for locals who know where to eat.

But calling Vivola Express a “sandwich shop” almost undersells it. The menu is a playground for people who love bold flavors and unapologetic combinations. There’s Grandma Vivola’s Meatball, the Italian Classic, a French Dip, a Reuben—and then creations like the Spicy Meatball Pepp, Chipilo, and Spicy Chicken Parm that take the humble sandwich into another universe.

And here’s the foodie move: order the “Surprise Me.” You literally let the crew create something unexpected for you. That’s confidence in the kitchen.

Add their rich lobster bisque and one of those freshly baked cookies, and you’ve got yourself a lunch worth the drive.

Vivola Express isn’t trying to be fancy. It’s trying to make you ridiculously happy. And judging by the devoted following, they’ve nailed it

Cheers!