Excuse me? LaWHO? As much as we hate to admit it, CHS, we have a confession to make: there are actually things to do in Ladue. That’s right, the land of our rival is not filled only with big houses, sprawling lawns, and Ladusers. In fact, there are some good places to eat and hang out. You may have to avoid some powder blue Rams on this venture out of the Clayton bubble, but the risk involved is bound to pay off. So get ready, if you dare, to leave your comfort zone in a most extreme way. Just don’t blame these places for their location; they can’t help that.

Schneithorst’s

Despite an impossibly perplexing entrance location and pronunciation (shine-thorst’s? shnith-horst’s?), this rustic German restaurant is an amusing place to spend a lunch. The overusage of wood and the quaint pictures of vegetables and geese adorning the walls contribute to the feel of an authentic German inn setting. The menu itself is more diverse, with only a slight sprinkling of native amenities, and they serve a killer pancake on the weekends. The German fare itself is slightly harder to fathom, let alone digest, and it is apparent that in order to dine here, one’s sandwich-eating skills must be up to par. Failure to do so is disastrous. Additionally, senior citizens generally populate the restaurant. But that’s only a negative if you don’t mind the stares/occasional snoring. Besides, those pancakes? So worth it.

Frontenac Theater

Plaza Frontenac is not usually known for its fabulous shopping, at least to the teenage generation, but they do boast one of the best non-mainstream theaters around. Frontenac is the place to go for those movies that make limited release only, or just don’t float around on the popular circuit. This normally describes great period dramas and quirky documentaries, both of which are always worth the view. The small size adds to the allure of it all. Sure, there are fewer movies, but there are also shorter lines and more snacks at the concession stand.  This may be a theatre frequented by senior citizens, but, when you’re enjoying “The Young Victoria” in a dark theater, who’s really going to care?

House of India

As the name implies, House of India offers consistently good Indian food to the Clayton and Ladue area. Located right behind the Ladue Schnucks, getting there is no hike. Though the food is a little pricey, the deliciousness is well worth the splurge. I particularly recommend the takeout for a fun evening in with a friend or two. Entering the restaurant and catching a glimpse of the clean, somewhat formal interior, I told the hostess my name to pick up my order. She, perhaps perplexed at the contrast between my all-business phone voice and flip-flopped appearance, raised an eyebrow at my adolescent presence and asked delicately, “Dinner time?” I just grinned.  With an evening of naan (order the plain, not the chicken) and chicken biryan, I did not mind her amused skepticism.

Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Cafe

Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Cafe, a desert restaurant located right next to House of India, is a bright, modern environment in which to enjoy a decadent treat. Although the restaurant offers an array of lunch options, the cupcakes definitely steal the show. From the basic Birthday Sundae Delight to the over-the-top Reese’s cupcake, Jilly’s treats are fun and delicious, and the shop features a selection of Easter and spring themed cupcakes for April. These cupcakes are stuffed with rich fillings and are big enough for two, so plan to share. For around six dollars or less, Jilly’s cupcakes make great birthday surprises or even snacks for study breaks.