There’s no denying the culinary scene in Saint Louis, Missouri is a delightful fusion of flavors that paints an exquisite canvas of dining experiences. As your favorite food blogger, I’ve taken up the challenge to guide you through the melting pot that is Saint Louis’s gastronomy, from the plushy softness of toasted ravioli to the heavenly descent of gooey butter cake. Prepare your taste buds, for they are about to embark on a delectable adventure that they won’t forget soon.
A vibrant city that seamlessly marries tradition with innovation, Saint Louis has a pulsating heart that beats strong in its restaurants’ kitchens, where time-honored recipes are executed with a modern twist. What’s more, this city is home to a vast array of cuisines, offering everything from Mexican and Italian to Asian and everything in-between.
Whether you’re a food connoisseur, a casual diner, or a hard-core foodie, this guide has you covered. We’ll explore iconic eateries, hidden gems, award-winning restaurants, and food trucks, all of which contribute to the rich culinary tapestry of Saint Louis. So, loosen your belts, raise your forks, and let’s embark on this gastronomic journey together.
Most Popular Restaurants in Saint Louis
Having the nickname “Gateway to the West”, Saint Louis, Missouri serves as a gateway to a smorgasbord of fantastic dining options that combine Midwestern hospitality with cosmopolitan sophistication. Here are a few handpicked options that are a must-visit in this vibrant city.
First up on our gastronomic tour is Sugarfire Smokehouse, located at 605 Washington Ave. This local barbecue hub, with its comfortable vibe and friendly service, offers succulent meats that will transport your taste buds into a world of rich smoky flavors. The restaurant is widely known for its mouth-watering brisket and ribs that fall off the bone. Remember to also try their signature Sugarfire Pie – a sweet, creamy, crackly top dessert – before you walk out the door.
Next, we journey to the “Hill”, Saint Louis’s historic Italian neighborhood, to visit Charlie Gitto’s on the Hill located at 5226 Shaw Ave. This iconic Italian restaurant is famous throughout the Midwest for its delicious homemade pastas and signature toasted ravioli. The romantic ambiance of this traditional venue lends itself perfectly to date nights or special occasions.
The creative culinary scene of Saint Louis wouldn’t be complete without the mention of Small Batch, a vegetarian and whiskey bar set in a historic automotive factory at 3001 Locust St. This gastronomic oasis for plant-based food lovers offers innovative dishes that are big on flavor – their Truffle Alfredo or Jackfruit Tacos are not to be missed. And with over a hundred varieties of whiskey, bourbon, and rye, it’s a paradise for whiskey enthusiasts too.
Last but certainly not least, Cafe Madeleine located in the beautiful Piper Palm House at 4256 Magnolia Ave, is a perfect Sunday brunch destination. This charming French cafe in the heart of Botanical Heights offers delectable crepes, omelettes, and pastries in a tranquil garden setting that will make you feel like you’ve escaped to the French countryside.
These are just a taste of Saint Louis’ thriving culinary scene. With countless local spots offering diverse cuisines and distinct experiences, there’s something for every foodie in this vibrant city.
Most Unique Restaurants in Saint Louis
If you are looking for an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience in Saint Louis, Missouri, this is the place to be. The city boasts some truly unique restaurants that you won’t find elsewhere, offering remarkable ambiance, fascinating history, and of course, delicious food. Here are some notable restaurants you shouldn’t miss.
Let’s start with The Royale located at 3132 S Kingshighway Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63139. The Royale is a classic neighborhood public house that has been serving the community since the 1930s. The décor is a homage to St. Louis history with maps and photographs adorning the walls. The food at the Royale is as eclectic as the decor, with dishes ranging from traditional pub foods to creative vegetarian offerings.
For those of you who are looking for an innovative dining experience, Small Batch, located at 3001 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103, is a must. This whiskey lounge and restaurant is an all-vegetarian spot that will delight even the most dedicated carnivore. Small Batch offers a rotating menu of creative, globally-inspired dishes, each thoughtfully paired with a suggestion from their extensive list of craft whiskeys.
Next, be sure to check out Fitz’s Root Beer located at 6605 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63130. Fitz’s is a St. Louis institution that has been serving its famous root beer since the 1940s. This is not just a restaurant, it’s an attraction. While dining, guests can watch the vintage root beer bottling machinery at work through a glass wall. The menu at Fitz’s is classic American fare, including their famous root beer floats, which are a must-try.
Another interesting spot is The Dark Room at 3610 Grandel Square, St. Louis, MO 63108. As the name might suggest, The Dark Room offers a unique combination of culinary and visual arts. The restaurant features live jazz, a carefully curated wine list, and a rotating gallery of work by local photographers. The menu is a blend of traditional and innovative dishes designed to complement the intimate, artistic atmosphere.
One restaurant that certainly ticks the ‘unique’ box is Venice Café at 1903 Pestalozzi St, St. Louis, MO 63118. The Venice Café is an eclectic blend of a traditional coffee shop, bar, music venue, and art gallery. The décor is a riot of color and art, with mosaics, murals and an array of interesting knickknacks filling every nook and cranny. The food is delicious and varied, with a range of dishes available to cater for every palate.
By visiting these unique restaurants in St. Louis, you will not only get to try some fantastic food but also immerse yourself in the local culture and history. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these spots are sure to spice up your dining routine.
Best Casual Restaurants in Saint Louis
If you want to experience culinary delights without all the fuss, then you’ll be thrilled to know Saint Louis is home to a variety of casual dining spots that do not compromise on flavor or quality. Here are some of our recommendations:
Firstly, Pizzeoli Wood Fired Pizza located at 1928 S 12th St, St. Louis, MO 63104 is a must-visit. This spot boasts Neapolitan-style, vegan-friendly pizzas that will take your tastebuds on a trip to Italy. The interior is cozy and laid-back, making it an excellent choice for a low-key night out. You can feast on pies like the Margherita or Funghi, all paired with an assortment of delectable wines and craft beers.
Next, for those who love a good brunch or sandwich, Rooster is the place to go. Situated at 1104 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63101, Rooster offers a plethora of scrumptious options. From their signature crepes to mouthwatering sandwiches, you’re guaranteed to find something you love. The restaurant also has a wide range of locally brewed beers and craft cocktails.
Another excellent casual spot is Mission Taco Joint on 6235 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63130. This place serves up some of the best street tacos you’ll ever try! The atmosphere is fun and relaxed, and the margaritas are the perfect companion to fresh, flavorful tacos. Try the duck taco with jalapeno garlic sauce or the Baja fish taco for a delightful meal.
Lastly, if you’re in the mood for something a bit different, head to Balkan Treat Box at 8103 Big Bend Blvd, Webster Groves, MO 63119. This eatery offers a unique blend of Balkan and Middle Eastern cuisine. The casual setup is perfect for a leisurely lunch or dinner. The wood-fired pide, cevapi, and pljeskavica are unforgettable dishes that will leave you wanting to come back for more.
To sum it up, these casual restaurants in Saint Louis offer an incredible mix of flavors and cuisines all while maintaining a relaxed and welcoming ambiance. They are the perfect spots for foodies who wish to enjoy a hearty meal without worrying about dress codes or reservations.
Best Family Restaurants in Saint Louis
When you find yourself in Saint Louis, it’s worth exploring the many family-friendly dining options the city has to offer. One such gem is Blue City Deli. Located at 2438 McNair Ave, Saint Louis, this is an ideal spot for families looking for a casual and hearty meal. It features composed sandwiches and live blues music, providing both a tasty and entertaining experience. The atmosphere is always welcoming, making it a hit for kids and adults alike.
Next on the list is Charlie Gitto’s on ‘The Hill’. This traditional Italian restaurant resides at 5226 Shaw Ave, Saint Louis. The family-owned establishment takes pride in its mouthwatering dishes and warm, cozy setting. Moreover, the children’s menu has been carefully thought out – offering smaller portions of their classic dishes. After dinner, the whole family can enjoy Italian gelato, a delicious end to your meal.
If you’re on the hunt for something more exotic, head over to Mai Lee, located at 8396 Musick Memorial Dr, Saint Louis. This Vietnamese and Chinese restaurant are beloved by locals and visitors for its expansive menu and comfortable dining room. It’s not uncommon to see families sharing large bowls of pho or plates of stir-fry. Mai Lee also offers a kids menu with approachable versions of their main menu items, making it a hit with all age groups in the family.
Lastly, a trip to Saint Louis wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Sugarfire Smokehouse. This popular joint at 605 Washington Ave, Saint Louis, serves up some of the best barbecues in town. The menu is as huge as the dining area – ensuring that every family member will find something they love. The laid-back ambiance coupled with friendly staff makes this restaurant a must-visit for families exploring Saint Louis.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty sandwich, traditional Italian, fragrant Asian cuisine, or a succulent barbecue, Saint Louis offers a plethora of family-friendly restaurants that cater to every palate. Every eatery not only offers a vast menu that is sure to please but also a comfortable atmosphere perfect for family dining.
Best Takeout Food in Saint Louis
For those nights when you just don’t feel like cooking, Saint Louis, Missouri offers a plethora of delightful takeout options. Let’s start by exploring the culinary treasures of this city.
Perhaps the crown jewel of Saint Louis takeout is Pappy’s Smokehouse. Located at 3106 Olive St, this place is revered as a temple of BBQ goodness. Since its opening in 2008, it has become a hotspot for locals and visitors looking for their slow-smoked meat fix. Their standout dish, the St. Louis-style smoked ribs, is a flavor-packed delight that you wouldn’t want to miss.
Next, we have Mai Lee. Nestled at 8396 Musick Memorial Dr, Brentwood, this family-run restaurant has been serving Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine since 1985. Their Pho Bo (beef noodle soup) is a standout, simmered for hours to create a flavorful broth that warms the soul. Also, their Banh Mi sandwiches are touted as some of the best you’ll find outside Vietnam.
Located at 4659 Maryland Ave, Pietro’s has been a staple in Saint Louis since 1960. They specialize in Italian cuisine, with their lasagna and toasted ravioli being fan favorites. Their perfectly cooked pastas coupled with mouth-watering sauces will keep you coming back for more.
For those with a craving for Mexican food, Mission Taco Joint at 6235 Delmar Blvd is a must-visit. Their street tacos are a delicious revelation, filled with your choice of meat, fish, or veggies, and topped with punchy salsa and fresh lime. Pair it with their house-made tortilla chips and you’ve got a feast fit for a king.
Let’s not forget the vegetarians and vegans out there. Lulu’s Local Eatery, located at 3201 S Grand Blvd, offers a delightful array of plant-based dishes that even carnivores would enjoy. Their Buffalo Cauliflower Wrap and Sweet Potato Falafel are just a couple of the exceptional menu items to enjoy.
All in all, Saint Louis offers a smorgasbord of takeout options to satisfy any taste bud. These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the culinary delights that await in this vibrant city.
What Foods is Saint Louis Known For?
When you think of St. Louis, Missouri, the immediate thoughts that come to mind are the Gateway Arch, the St. Louis Cardinals, and, of course, the city’s fantastic food scene. Let me share with you some of the most iconic foods that this city is known for, along with where you can get your hands on them.
Top on the list is the St. Louis-style pizza, a thin-crust delight dished up by Imo’s Pizza. Located at 800 N New Ballas Rd, St. Louis, MO 63146, USA, Imo’s is renowned for their ultra-thin crust pizza topped with Provel cheese, a local favorite. This cheese is a blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone that melts into a gooey, creamy texture unlike any other.
Next is the St. Louis-style ribs, which are a barbecue staple in this city. These are spare ribs cut in a specific style and then slathered in delectable BBQ sauce. You can indulge in some of these at Pappy’s Smokehouse located at 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA. The perfectly prepared meat at Pappy’s literally falls off the bone and melts in your mouth, making it a must-try for any meat lover.
St. Louis isn’t all about dinner though – it’s also famous for its delectable dessert, the gooey butter cake. This dense and rich cake has a crust layer topped with a filling made from butter and, typically, cream cheese, resulting in a texture that’s firm on the outside but gooey on the inside. A great place to savor this cake is Park Avenue Coffee, located at 4240 Duncan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. They offer more than 70 different flavors of this signature dessert spread throughout the week.
Another iconic St. Louis food you really have to try is the toasted ravioli. These deep-fried, breaded ravioli are usually filled with either meat or cheese and served with marinara sauce. Head to Anthonino’s Taverna at 2225 Macklind Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA to taste some of the best toasted raviolis in town.
St. Louis has a unique food culture that beautifully blends Midwestern and Southern styles. Whether you’re a local, visitor, or someone planning a trip, these eats are a must-try to get a real taste of the Gateway to the West.
Eating Your Way Around Saint Louis: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
Let’s start our journey with Pappy’s Smokehouse wonderfully located at 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103. Here, you can get the taste of mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and other deliciously smoked meats that will surely get your taste buds tingling. Do not forget to enjoy their delicious sides including fried corn on the cob, coleslaw, and potato salad.
Next up, we have Rooster located at 3150 S Grand Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63118. This is the perfect place for breakfast or brunch. From savory crepes to Scrambles and Biscuits & Gravy, everything is a hit!
Moving on, let’s have lunch at Pi Pizzeria, positioned at 6144 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63112. Indulge yourself in their thin crust pizza or try out the deep dish pizza that’s out-of-this-world delicious. With their extensive variety of pizzas and toppings, there’s something for everyone!
For an afternoon snack, stop by Ted Drewes Frozen Custard, located at 6726 Chippewa St, St. Louis, MO 63109. Serving some of the best custards in America, this place is a true St. Louis tradition. Try their special, the “concrete”, which is so thick that they serve it to you upside down!
For dinner, visit Broadway Oyster Bar situated at 736 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102. Offering a diverse menu with a mix of Creole, Cajun and Southern dishes, this place has a lively atmosphere with great live music. Make sure to try their Crawfish Monica and Chargrilled Oysters.
End your day with some desserts at Crown Candy Kitchen, a nostalgic candy store and soda shop located at 1401 St Louis Ave, St Louis, MO 63106. Enjoy the wide array of sweets from chocolate malts to their world-famous BLTs. The heart-stopping BLT sandwich should be on your must-try list!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What are some well-known restaurants in Saint Louis?
A1: Saint Louis has a wide variety of restaurants known for their excellent food and ambiance. Some renowned ones include Sidney Street Cafe, which offers a blend of American and French cuisine, and The Hill, famous for its Italian dishes. Other notable mentions are Pappy’s Smokehouse, best known for St. Louis-style BBQ, and Brasserie by Niche, for their French cuisine.
Q2: Are there any good vegan restaurants in Saint Louis?
A2: Absolutely! Saint Louis is home to several excellent vegan restaurants. For instance, Frida’s serves a menu full of vegetarian and vegan options, while Lulu’s Local Eatery offers Asian-inspired vegan dishes. Seedz Cafe is another great spot for plant-based food.
Q3: Can you suggest some bars with great food in Saint Louis?
A3: For bars with tasty food, head over to The Royale, known for its cocktails and contemporary American cuisine. Another great place is the Broadway Oyster Bar, which serves some of the best seafood in town. Planter’s House is also highly commendable, offering a good blend of drinks and delicious food.
Q4: What are some must-try local dishes in Saint Louis?
A4: When in Saint Louis, make sure to try out some local favorites. Gooey Butter Cake is a classic dessert, while the St. Louis-style pizza is thin, crispy, and cut into squares. Toasted ravioli is another local specialty. For BBQ lovers, the St. Louis-style ribs are a must-try.
Q5: Are there any good breakfast spots in Saint Louis?
A5: Saint Louis has many great places to start your day. Half & Half is a popular spot known for its unique breakfast items. Another great place is Sardella, which offers a variety of breakfast and brunch options. Egg is also well-loved by locals and visitors for its classic breakfast dishes.
Q6: What are the best fine dining restaurants in Saint Louis?
A6: For fine dining, consider a visit to Tony’s, an Italian restaurant that has been a staple of the St. Louis dining scene for years. Another upscale dining spot is Vicia, which focuses on vegetable-forward cuisine. Sidney Street Cafe is also known for its gourmet menu and elegant setting.
Q7: Can you recommend good food trucks in Saint Louis?
A7: Saint Louis has a vibrant food truck scene. Guerrilla Street Food is a top choice for Filipino-inspired dishes. Others like Seoul Taco and Holy Crepe offer delicious Korean-Mexican fusion food and sweet and savory crepes respectively. For pizza lovers, the Pie Hard food truck is a must-try.
Q8: What are some budget-friendly places to eat in Saint Louis?
A8: For budget-friendly dining, check out Mission Taco Joint for tasty and affordable tacos. Blues City Deli is also well-loved for its inexpensive sandwiches. For those craving Asian cuisine, Mai Lee Restaurant offers some of the best Vietnamese-Chinese food at affordable prices.
Are you a globetrotter with a passion for discovering unique culinary delights? Do you yearn to uncover the flavors and foodie hotspots that are hidden in cities around the world? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve crafted an array of travel food guides that dive into the gastronomic treasures of many fascinating cities. From the pizza havens of New York to the tapas trails in Barcelona, we’ve got it all covered. So why not take your taste buds on an adventure and check out our collection of food travel guides? You can explore them right here. Bon Appétit!
