Sandwiched between the "big guys" (Straub's to the west, Schnucks to the east and, before long, Whole Foods a few blocks west) sits tiny Shapiro's Market operated by charming young brothers, Maher and Shady David. The David's father Thomas, who operates the Florissant Dairy, bought the market in May 2012 and put his sons in charge.
Maher and Shady have made a success of Shapiro's at 111 S. Newstead (just south of Lindell), and shrug off any concern that Whole Foods might hurt their business. .
Shapiro's Market, which has been in the same location since 1965, caters to a diverse clientele that includes nearby apartment and condo dwellers, college students, the W.U. Medical Center and Cortex. The big draw is the convenience of picking up apartment-size necessities and reasonably-priced, delicious sandwiches from the deli department, which features Boar's Head meats. Maher David has been cooking since he was ten (he is now 31). In addition to deli sandwiches, Maher and Shady offer lunch specials grilled daily on their "backyard barbecue" (which is actually out front).
Call ahead (314-531-5704) to find out what's on the menu, since whatever they put on the grill sells out fast. On any given day it might be cheese-stuffed 1/2-pound burgers ($3.99), pulled pork, brats, ribs, pork steaks ($6.99). Lunch platters are served with a side, such as potato salad.
Shady, above, the younger of the two brothers, is usually behind the counter making sandwiches with clever names like Las Palmas or Fifi, $5.99 (see board above), or their fabulous Rueben sandwich, $5.99. There is a vegetarian selection too, $4.99.
Shapiro's caters events of all sizes and will also grill whatever meats you might fancy – from tenderloin, rib eye, baby back ribs, to rack of lamb. Call for prices and arrange catering or special orders at least 24 hours in advance.
Shapiro's also stocks some organic foods, Fage yogurt, and beverages including craft beers. Currently a local brew from 4 Hands Brewery is the most popular craft beer in the market's cooler.
Parking can be tricky, though there is usually a spot in the 30-minute zone in front of the store.
Shapiro's Market, 111 N. Newstead, Mon. – Fri. 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., (314) 531-5704. Visit Shapiro's Market on Facebook. Maher and Shady care about the broader neighborhood too as proud members of the Central West End Association.