Whether we’re taking our friends or family who live outside of the Franklin County area out to lunch, or we want a date night, my husband and I love visiting The Tilted Skillet in Washington. Not only is the food good, like really good, there’s a wide variety of menu items, which makes it a great place to take a group, since there’s salads, sandwiches and burgers, as well as pizza and entrees like whiskey glazed salmon, steak, and pasta dishes.
In addition to food, there’s also craft beer selections, which are typically a variety of local and national craft brews. The full bar also features cocktails, wines, and a substantial spirit selection, including extensive whiskey and bourbon offerings, as well as soft drinks and mocktails.
Shrimp skewers appetizer served over wild rice. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
But, back to the dining options. As I mentioned in my last food review, I’m working on getting healthier, through exercise, as well as eating more protein, and watching my carbs and sugar intake, which basically means no beer for me right now *insert sad face*.
When we dined out at The Tilted Skillet recently, we were both quite hungry, so we did something we rarely do and opted to get an appetizer as well as each order a meal. We ordered the shrimp skewers from the appetizer menu, and while I can’t remember if the menu mentions the glaze or sauce they’re finished with, it tasted similar to the delicious whiskey glaze that I’ve tried on some of the other seafood dishes at The Tilted Skillet.
Bunless burger with the zucchini and squash side. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
As for our meals, I chose a burger and asked for it without a bun, and the side I selected was the zucchini and squash, which is served sautéed with a sprinkling of parmesan. I think the burgers are my favorite menu items here, since they’re thick and juicy and get loads of flavor from the grill. This was my first time ordering my burger without a bun (at least at this establishment) and I really appreciated that it was served on top of romaine, making it easier for me to make it handheld like a traditional burger.
My hubby ordered the brat burger, a huge burger made from brat meat, served on a pretzel bun, with bacon, cheese, avocado, and he added sauerkraut, and ordered the sidewinder fries with Cajun seasoning. He loves this sandwich, but usually ends up removing the bottom part of the bun since it’s so huge!
The brat burger with cajun seasoned sidewinder fries. Photo credit: The Socialite_Amanda Bretz
On previous visits I’ve ordered the whiskey salmon, chop salad with chicken, rueben and brisket sandwiches, and the meat lovers pizza – and I have enjoyed everything I’ve ever ordered.
Although it doesn’t feel like it outside, we’re inching towards fall a little more with each passing day. This week is filled with events that celebrate autumn, family-friendly activities like festivals and free outdoor movies, live music events, markets, and more.
Thursday, Sept. 18 Union’s Dinner on the Square event is on Main Street, right in front of the Historic Old Courthouse. Get ready for a night filled with delicious food, live music by Tom Norton, and vibrant community spirit. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of a memorable evening under the stars! Get the details.
Friday, Sept. 19 Head to Scarlett’s Bar & Grill in St. Clair for a trivia night to support retired firefighter Rob Slinkard in his battle with cancer. There will be food specials from 5–9 p.m., a silent auction from 5–8:30 p.m., and trivia from 5:30–7 p.m. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 19 Want to learn some new moves, but don’t know where to start? McKelvey Vineyards is hosting an evening of fun, beginner-friendly line dancing from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Get the details.
Friday, Sept. 19 Calling all ’90s kids and music lovers! Extremely Unplugged will be kickin out the jams from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Front Street Cellars & Inn in Washington. Grab a bottle of wine and listen to them play acoustic ’90s covers. Get more info.
Friday, Sept. 19 On the third Friday of each month, The Washington Coffee Shop hosts an Open Mic Night. Singers, musicians, poets, and spoken word artists are welcome to share their talents with the crowd. Learn more at The Washington Coffee Shop’s Facebook page.
Saturday, Sept. 20 R&R Ace’s annual craft fair is happening in the front parking lot at R&R Ace in St. Clair. Find unique gifts and hand-crafted treasures at this event. Get more details on Facebook.
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Saturday, Sept. 20 Head to downtown Sullivan for the fall market from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shop vendors during the market, or arrive early and watch the band parade, where students from all over the state will show off their musical skills as they march through downtown. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 20 The St. Clair Farmers Market happens the first and third Saturday in the Elks parking lot. Find local produce, meat from Bardot Farms, cottage baked goods, and more.
Saturday, Sept. 20 Four Rivers Car Show is happening from noon-5 p.m. at Washington VFW. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 20 Astral Glass Studio is hosting its annual Pumpkin Palooza from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and will be unveiling this year’s stock of glass pumpkins made by Lance Stroheker. Don’t forget to grab your free ticket to enter into a glass pumpkin giveaway at 2 p.m. More info.
Saturday, Sept. 20 Come see a variety of machines, farm equipment, and trucks at the Meet the Machines event at FBC in St. Clair. This is a free event for the entire family that will feature games, a craft station, food, and lots to see. Get all the details.
Saturday, Sept. 20 St. Clair Christian Church is hosting a free drive-in movie. The movie will be “King of Kings” and it will start as soon as the sun goes down. Interested attendees are encouraged to get into a parking space for this movie night. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 20 OxFest Music Festival happens at the fairgrounds in Washington from noon until 10 p.m. Since 2017 OxFest has donated more than $322,000 to charities that support children. Get your tickets and get ready for a day of great music for a great cause. Get ticketing info.
Saturday, Sept. 20 Join the Franklin County Deputy Sheriff’s Association at it’s second annual Fall Dance. The theme this year is Western, so dress in your best cowboy/cowgirl outfits. Included in your tickets is a live band, dinner, and a cash bar. Tickets are $50 per person. It is recommended to get your tickets in advance, and all proceeds for this event aid in supporting Franklin County First Responders. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
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Thursday, Sept. 18– Sunday, Sept. 20 Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, try tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 19 Life House in Cuba will host an outside movie night, and admissions is free. Concessions will be available for sale. Grab your blankets and chairs and don’t miss out on the showing of the film “Spiderman.” Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 20 Taste of the Ozarks is happening in Steelville. Expect food trucks, vendors, and live music. Get more details.
Saturday, Sept. 20 Fall at the Farm at Smith Valley Event Barn in Salem is the perfect place to get that fall decor and start shopping for the Christmas season. Make plans to get the friends together and enjoy a day of shopping. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 20 Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg is hosting a free stargazing event. The public is invited to meet in front of the visitor center to view the unobstructed night sky and learn about some of the objects that can be seen. Astronomy experts will be demonstrating the use of telescopes and identifying stars and planets. Find out more.
This week there’s craft and vendor festivals, a grown up book fair, live music, a breathwork and cold exposure workshop, a rodeo, a car show, and more.
Thursday, Sept. 11 Take in live music by Dave Alans at Music on Main in Union. Head to Hansen Park, for the event. Gates open at 5 p.m., music starts at 6 p.m. Food and refreshments available for purchase by Elmer’s Tavern. Learn more.
Thursday, Sept. 11 Soul Refresh in Washington is hosting a Breathwork and Cold Exposure Workshop with a certified guide. Attendees begin with a 30-45 minute breathwork class, 3 minute dip in the cold plunge, and a 20 minute heat session in one of our infrared saunas. Afterwards, enjoy light food and time for connection. Workshop attendees should bring a water bottle, yoga mat, and clothing to plunge and sauna in. Cost is $60 per person. Register here.
Friday, Sept. 12-Saturday, Sept. 13 The St. Clair Saddle Club and the Mid Missouri Rodeo Association are putting on a rodeo. Over the two day event, attendees can see bronc riding, barrel racing, roping, and more. Get details.
Friday, Sept. 12 Sunset on the Rails is a free concert in Pacific that happens on the second Friday of the month at Pacific Station and features vendors and food. This month’s concert features the music of Sweet Ruckus. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 12 The Union Farmers Market is happening from 4-7 p.m. at the corner of Oak and Main. Find items from local makers, produce, honey, plants, and more, as well as food truck vendors and live music. Find out more.
Friday, Sept. 12-Saturday, Sept. 13 Grace United Methodist Church in Sullivan is hosting a Fall Free Market, where everything is free. Come by to stock up on cool weather clothing for all ages. Shoes, boots, hats, coats, clothing, housewares and linens. Get event times here.
Saturday, Sept. 13 As a kid, if you saved up your allowance money for weeks to get things at the Scholastic Book Fair, then you’ll want to snag your ticket for the Grown Up Book Fair. This year’s theme is Y2K and is happening at Point Labaddie Brewery from 6-9 p.m. Tickets to this 21+ event are $25 per person includes your first drink. There will also be music, food, swag, and books. Tickets purchased through Neighborhood Reads.
Moms. Busy women. Goal-getters. You don’t have to do it alone. Fitness. Fuel. Focus. Grab your FREE guide!
Saturday, Sept. 13 Members of the Boone Society will be giving a free presentation at the historic Good Hope Baptist Church on Ridge Avenue in St. Clair. Learn about Daniel, Daniel Morgan, and Nathan Boone. There will be books for sale, and light refreshments served. Attendees are invited to head to the St. Clair Historical Museum after the presentation. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 13 Liberty Hall in Washington is hosting an Indoor Marketplace event. Gifts, art, home goods, baked treats, and something for everyone – free to attend! Bring your friends, your family, and your weekend energy — and support local in a beautiful, indoor space. Learn more.
Sunday, Sept. 14 Old Farm Winery in Catawissa is hosting a Fall Craft Fair, with craft and food vendors, live music, and a food truck. Learn more.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Thursday, Sept. 11– Sunday, Sept. 14 Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, tuck into tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 12 Owensville is hosting a free showing of “The Wizard of Oz.” The movie will be shown at Buschman Park and will start at 7:15 p.m. Find out more.
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Saturday, Sept. 13 It’s time to dust off the jorts, tease that hair sky-high, and crack open a cold one, because things are gettin’ wild at The Rose in Cuba. Expect Redneck jams all night, cheap beer and trashy cocktails, backyard bites and party games. Prizes for Best Dressed, Tackiest Couple, and Most Likely to Be on COPS. More details.
Saturday, Sept. 13 Take in the sights of classic and unique cars, while enjoying food and crafts from area vendors at the 8th Annual Bourbon Car Show. Find out more.
Sunday, Sept. 14 Head to Defiance for the Busch and Boots Music Festival. Busch Family Brewing and Distilling is the host for this ticketed event that will feature live music, food, and local artisan vendors. Get tickets.
This weekend is packed with things to do around the area – there’s car shows, food focused events, and festivals galore, from the Celtic Festival and Beerfest in Washington, to WingFest in Union, plus the Harvest Festival in Steelville, the Boots and Bourbon Bash in Rosebud, and many more events.
Thursday, Sept. 4 Are you looking for ways to extend the growing season in your vegetable garden? The Sullivan branch of Scenic Regional Library is having a program called Extending the Growing Season, at 6 p.m. The event is free, but RSVP is required to attend. RSVP and get more information.
Graphic via Sullivan Branch of Scenic Regional Library’s Facebook
Friday, Sept. 5 Pinckney Bend Distillery in New Haven is hosting a BBQ pop-up, with Josh Lang cooking up the ‘cue. The event is from 3-5 p.m., or until sold out. Learn more.
Friday, Sept. 5-Saturday, Sept. 6 The 9th Annual WingFest is going down at the Union Fairgrounds, located at Union City Park. This free two day event will feature food, vendors, live music, wing eating contest, chicken nugget contest, a corn hole tournament, fireworks, face painter, mechanical bull, bounce houses, and a lot more. Get details on Facebook.
Friday, Sept. 5 The Washington Public Library’s writers’ group, the Washington Wordsmiths, is publishing their second anthology, “‘Doorknobs & Pathways’.” To add to the festivity local authors are invited to bring their work to sell. Come talk to the authors and enjoy festive treats. Copies of “‘Doorknobs & Pathways'” will be available for purchase. Learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 6 If you’re feeling crafty, then head to DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs in downtown St. Clair for a resin wind chime class. The cost if $35 per person, with all materials included in the attendance price, and each attendee will leave with a wind chime. More details.
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Saturday, Sept. 6 Calling all craft beer lovers, the 19th Annual Washington Jaycees Brewfest is happening at the Washington Farmers Market from 4-8 p.m. Guests of this ticketed event will gain access to 20+ breweries, home-brewers, and distilleries, as well as getting a commemorative Brewfest pint glass. There will be live music and food available for purchase from Ernesto’s Mexican Restaurant, and American Legion Auxiliary will be hosting a bake sale at the event. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 6 If you’re looking for a spot to chill and listen to live music with an uplifting message, then head to Pacific for Rockin’ the Railroad, a concert put on by The Bridge. The gate opens at 5 p.m. and will feature the music of The Protest, Behold the Beloved, and Cole Abell. Get all the details.
Saturday, Sept. 6 The Chick-fil-A food truck will be in New Haven, at People’s Savings Bank. A portion of the sales from the day will benefit The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation. The food truck operates on a pre-order basis so the restaurant knows how much food to bring to each mobile location. Learn more and pre-order here.
Saturday, Sept. 6 The annual VFW Celtic Festival is back for its one-day celebration at the Washington VFW, located at 813 Jefferson St. This ticketed event features, food, a beer tent, festivities, and music. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 6 Andy’s Too in Union’s ice cream shop, located on U.S. 50, is hosting its grand opening. The festivities include family-fun like face painting, as well as a seafood boil, plus more. Get the details.
Saturday, Sept. 6 Liberty Field in Pacific will be the site of Jimmy Smooths Creepin’ Show, a car show featuring rat rods and bikes, plus music, kids activities, food trucks, a swap meet, and more. Learn more.
Sunday, Sept. 7 Macadoodles Fine Wine, Beer, & Spirits in Union is hosting its grand opening celebration from 1-5 p.m. There will live music by Twisted Fiction, along with free product samples, and giveaways. More info.
Sunday, Sept. 7 Looking for a rejuvenating experience? Lost Hill Lake Wedding & Events in St. Clair has a workshop for that. Combining the power of breath work with the invigorating effects of ice baths and saunas, attendees will release stress, boost their immune system, and leave feeling refreshed and energized. Get tickets.
Road Trippin’
Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.
Tuesday, Sept. 2 – Sunday, Sept. 7 Head to Steelville for Harvest Festival 2025, a several days long event that features music, food, games, and rodeo fun. More information.
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Thursday, Sept. 4– Sunday, Sept. 7 Autumn Glow Festival is lighting up Eureka Thursdays-Sundays this fall at Brookdale Farms. This enchanting night walk, inspired by traditional Chinese lantern festivals, is the perfect autumn outing for friends and families. Explore 100s of intricately crafted lanterns, enjoy live acrobatic shows, tuck into tasty local food, and discover a world of festive fun for all ages. Learn more.
Thursday, Sept. 4 – Saturday, Sept. 6 The annual Grape & Fall Festival in St. James kicks off Thursday, and just a few of the festivities include Weiner dog races, a rodeo roping show, street market fair, carnival rides, livestock exhibits, food vendors, and more. Find out more.
Saturday, Sept. 6 Put on your Western wear for the Boots & Bourbon Bash at Copper June’s in Rosebud. This one-day event will feature music, food trucks, spirits from area distilleries, and boot-scootin’ fun. Get tickets.
Small Town Socialite 