43 Best Restaurants to Eat in St Louis
Last updated October 26, 2025
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St. Louis boasts an exceptionally remarkable culinary landscape.
With a range of exciting new venues and emerging talents, St. Louis City has made its mark, evolving from a flyover city into a true culinary destination.
Here are the 43 best restaurants to eat in St Louis!
1. Stacked STL
This is a well-known American dining spot that launched in 2013, providing a one-of-a-kind build-ur-own burger concept.
Featuring 12 signature deluxe burgers along with a customizable option that includes a variety of patties, buns, sauces, cheeses, and about thirty toppings, there is something for everybody here.
The restaurant likewise features a variety of beers and special drinks to complement your tasty burger.
2. Balkan Treat Box
This is a well-known restaurant in St Louis famous for Balkan dishes like pide, lahmacun, ćevapi, and döner.
It has earned both national and local recognition for its renowned cevapi, a garlic-infused minced meat kebab cooked on a wide open flame.
Presented in a wood-fired homemade pita with kajmak sauce and raw onion, this Sarajevo-styled cevapi, which is longer and denser, stands out as a menu highlight.
3. Sidney Street Cafe
This is a cherished restaurant in Benton Park famous for its creative New American dishes offered in an elegant and cozy atmosphere.
Kevin Nashan, the chef's menu features traditional items like lobsters alongside items like popcorn combined with contemporary options like hamachi crudo.
The restaurant's food is also characterized by a nice refinement of flavor and texture, earning Kevin national acclaim, including the 2017 James Beard Best Chef Award.
4. Farmhaus Restaurant
Situated inside Clifton Heights, Farmhaus Restaurant is a charming venue that captures the spirit of Midwestern upscale dining.
Chef Willmann highlights his deep Gulf Coast heritage in this restaurant with seafood creations that focus on seasonal and local produce from Missouri.
This restaurant's evolution from modest origins to a premier dining spot has been extraordinary.
Emphasizing fresh and community produce, Farmhaus ensures a captivating culinary experience through its chef-inspired menu and dishes.
5. Blue City Deli
This is an energetic location featuring a varied selection of sandwiches, po' boys, and salads amidst blues-themed decorations.
The deli provides a variety of sandwich types such as Italian subs, muffulettas, New Orleans poboys, hot dogs, NYC pastrami, and Memphis-styled barbecue.
On Mondays, you have to also try their 'Tony Supremo' and on Wednesdays, their 'Aporkalypse Pretzelwich'.
6. Salt + Fire
Salt + Fire is a casual BBQ establishment with a lovely Texan atmosphere. It features a variety of craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, and bourbons.
Customers have praised the friendly form of greeting and the comfortable environment.
Their menu includes a range of BBQ selections like pulled pork, brisket, and chicken wings.
Their dishes such as whitecheddar mac with creamed corn and cheese have also been lauded for their tasty flavor.
You can also relish their maple butter and hush puppies.
7. Eleven Eleven Mississippi
Situated inside St. Louis, this is a renowned bistro that specializes in Californian dishes with an emphasis on wine.
Established in 2003 by Wendy and Paul Hamilton, the restaurant offers a menu that includes homemade dishes crafted from seasonal vegetables and fruits cultivated in the greenhouse.
Their chic revamped factory venue offers a distinctive dining adventure for those discovering modern American cuisine.
Focusing on innovation and sustainability, this restaurant really highlights top regional and local produce.
8. Casa Don Alfonso
Situated at Clayton’s Ritz-Carlton, Casa Don Alfonso serves as the inaugural U.S. branch of the acclaimed 1890 Don Alfonso restaurant from SantAgata, Italy.
The 2-star Michelin establishment seeks to bring in the Sorrento Coast's tastes into the Midwest, focusing on culinary heritage from Campania.
9. Hendel's
Hendel's has been an assertive cornerstone for more than 20 years.
Situated in a historical structure from 1800, this family-run eatery features traditional and inventive American cuisine paired with a complete bar.
Run by a married couple, the eatery is recognized for its varied menu catering to omnivores, vegetarians, and vegans.
It features four distinct menus that include food, wine, drinks, and liquors.
10. Brasserie by Niche
This spot offers a traditional French brasserie atmosphere infused with elements of American style.
The eatery offers classic French cuisine for weekend brunch and dinner, including eggs cocotte, beignets, quiche, steak frites, croque madame, and onion soup.
Their menu also includes English translation for many dishes while keeping their French names.
11. Chao Baan
Nestled within the Grove, Chao Baan stands as a family-run eatery that provides a varied menu highlighting regional dishes from Thailand's north-eastern and southern regions.
The owners, Suchin and Sue Prapaisilp, also added meals from their hometowns to the menu.
Even, Chao Baan Restaurant has broadened its menu to feature an assortment of curries and popular items like the FourKings of Thailand.
12. Cinder House & Bar
This is a beautiful restaurant and lounge inspired by South American culture, and it's situated on Four Seasons Downtown’s rooftop.
This modern dining venue features velvet and leather in different natural shades, fostering an opulent ambiance.
It has even been deemed the most stunning Missouri bar due to its awe-inspiring Arch and the urban skyline's southern view.
The patio outside provides a captivating atmosphere with sparkling water and fire elements, making it ideal for dining in the fall.
13. Idol Wolf
This is a trendy and diverse eatery situated inside St. Louis's Hotel 21c.
Their menu features bocaditos, raciones, and tapas inspired by Spanish cuisine, together with seafood paella being the centerpiece.
Whether you want to treat yourself to the rib-eye or enjoy small plates and drinks, there are numerous ways to relish a meal in Idol Wolf Restaurant.
Also, all of their meals are delicious and expertly made.
14. Rooster
This is an energetic brunch destination famous for its unique crêpes, cozy European cuisine, and drinks.
Cassy Vires, the chef updated the dishes with her homemade flair, highlighting farm-2-table methods and regional ingredients.
This eatery also provides a contemporary breakfast experience featuring items such as crepes, breakfast sandwiches, and scrambles, along with vegan selections.
With locations in South Grand and Downtown, Rooster has established itself as a cherished brunch spot in St. Louis.
15. Sugarfire Smoke House
This is a cherished BBQ chain in the area famous for Southern-style dishes and chef-inspired methods.
Featuring several sites, including a site in Olivette, it is a favored option for casual-fast meals.
Its cafeteria-style arrangement enables visitors to select from an assortment of inventive side dishes and smoked meats.
Mike Johnson's creative dishes and house-made sauces have brought Sugarfire national acclaim and accolades.
This restaurant has effectively transformed the conventional barbecue adventure with its distinctive style.
16. Broadway Oyster Bar
This is a vibrant place that features Cajun favorites and live music every night plus a colorful outdoor patio.
It is included in St Louis’s blues triangle featuring other well-known spots such as Beale Broadway and BBs Jazz Blues and Soups, offering plenty of choices for blues fans nearby.
17. Charlie Gitto
This is a historic Italian restaurant celebrated for its traditional charm and refined ambiance.
The establishment takes pride in delivering attentive and friendly service including a sommelier to help guests select the ideal wine pairing.
Their menu features a range of choices such as steaks, seafood, pizza, veal, and pasta.
Also, signature meals like Penne Borghese and toasted ravioli are very recommended.
18. Sado
This stands as a Japanese eatery situated within The Hill, a neighborhood known for Italian-American culture.
Regardless of its setting, it presents a varied menu emphasizing Japanese dishes.
The eatery offers a wide variety of starters including steamed buns, gyoza, and seafood tartare.
Patrons can even enjoy the chance to share different dishes while dining.
The restaurant's atmosphere is lauded for its charming lighting and appealing decor. Note that it is advisable to make reservations because of the high demand here.
19. Anthonino's Taverna
This is a casual restaurant situated in the center of the Italian-American area of St. Louis.
This genuine restaurant serves a blend of classic and distinctive Greek and Italian cuisine including toasted ravioli and cheese pizza.
They also offer dolmathes, pasta carbonara, tzatziki sauce, gyros, chicken Parmesan, pasta dishes, and sandwiches.
Their menu also includes vegan pizza and gluten-free choices.
20. Little Fox
This is an enchanting restaurant found within Fox Park in St. Louis, providing a warm ambiance and a lively selection of small seasonal dishes and filling main courses.
Established by Mowgli and Craig Rivard who sought to develop a contemporary take on the classic neighborhood eatery, Little Fox offers a concise selection of natural wines and wines from small producers.
The couple has continuously demonstrated creativity and flexibility in achieving their vision.
21. Schlafly TapRoom
This is a vibrant brewpub and microbrewery situated within Downtown West.
It provides a friendly environment where visitors can savor robust pub fare alongside the brewery's unique beers which feature more than 60 varieties from traditional to innovative.
This place also provides outdoor seats for guests to unwind and enjoy their drinks.
And alongside its famous beer offerings, this tap room additionally features live music performances by local bands spanning different genres and ensuring full entertainment for everyone.
22. Bowood by Niche
This is a dining treasure found in the 21 c Museum Hotel that features a luxurious atmosphere and genuine Iberian dishes.
Its romantically dim central area and vibrant bar provide a very wonderful atmosphere for visitors.
Initially created by Bowood Farm as a city refuge, it was subsequently turned into a dining hotspot by Gerard Craft, a renowned chef.
This laid-back brunch location features a menu inspired by the Midwest, boasting tasty choices such as Vermont cheddar waffles and French toastbread pudding.
23. Carmines Steak House
Situated at the corner of Fourth & Walnut, this is a well-established, family-operated Italian eatery that provides an array of options such as steaks, seafood, and special pasta.
Their menu includes fresh seafood, hand-sliced chops, aged beef, chicken dishes, and homemade desserts.
This eatery likewise offers private dining facilities for banquets for as many as 125 guests.
24. Nudo House Delmar
This is a quick-service restaurant that captures the spirit of commitment and perseverance.
Owned by Qui Tran and Marie Velasco, the ramen restaurant was carefully designed for several years, taking cues from Shigetoshi Nakamura, a Japanese ramen expert.
Its tonkotsu broth signature dish is simmered for more than 20 hours in order to achieve perfection and is accompanied by delicious chashu pork.
25. John D. McGurk
Situated in the French Quarter of St. Louis, this Irish Pub & Garden has remained a favorite destination for genuine Irish dishes for more than 43 years.
The cozy brick-walled spaces of the pub and its beautifully arranged back garden offer an ideal atmosphere for savoring Irish cuisine, live performances, and drinks.
Even, Esquire Magazine acknowledged it among the finest American bars.
26. Akar
This is a warm and small restaurant found in Clayton in Missouri.
Bernie Lee, its chef, takes cues from his Malaysia heritage to craft a blend of international and Malaysian cuisines.
The restaurant provides a cozy dining atmosphere with a limited indoor capacity of 14 guests, along with extra seating on its delightful patio.
Its menu showcases distinctive items like duck breast brined in oolong tea, charsiu chicken, gnocchi served in Malaysian curries, and rangoon lobster ravioli.
27. Louie
Louie, an inviting Italian eatery situated in DeMun, is a cherished local venue famous for its pasta options, wood-fired pizza, and meticulously chosen wine selection.
The eatery radiates a sense of subtle sophistication with its refined decor and carefully selected menu.
Even, Louie has received many awards as part of St. Louis's top restaurants.
28. Lombardo's Trattoria
This is a long-standing, family-run Italian eatery situated in St. Louis' center.
It has remained famous since its inception in 1934 for its traditional pasta meals, wood-fired pizza, and delicious desserts.
The eatery always provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, rendering it a favored option for those in search of genuine Italian tastes.
29. Vicia
This is a stylish St. Louis restaurant recognized for its ethically sourced meats and seasonal, local dishes that emphasize vegetables.
The restaurant presents a Farmers Feast of three courses, highlighting its kitchen's seasonal ingredients and creative motivation, and substituting the classic tasting menu.
Owned by Tara and Michael Gallina, Vicia offers outstanding guest engagement and hospitality to create a one-of-a-kind dining adventure.
30. Union Loafer Café & Bread Bakery
This is a modern venue that provides an assortment of traditionally made breads, midday sandwiches, and evening pizzas.
Their lunch offerings include easy and remarkable choices like chicken-n-rice soup, ham-n-cheddar sandwiches, and a tasty PB&J.
Their salad, Little Gem, has received great praise for its wonderful mix of herbs, lettuces, buttermilk dressing, and breadcrumbs.
31. Bridge Tap House and Wine Bar
This is a fashionable and high-end venue situated in downtown of St. Louis that features a chic and elegant atmosphere along with a wide variety of beers and wines.
It offers an impressive beer selection with more than 50 choices, encompassing local brews, USA craft beers from various regions, and traditional Belgian varieties.
The atmosphere here is dim and enchanting, rendering it a favored option for romantic outings or a refined evening.
32. The Fountain Locust
This is an old Stutz car showroom transformed into a dining establishment that features traditional American meals and unique ice creams.
The venue boasts art decor murals and exudes a nostalgic atmosphere, evoking memories of high school formal dances.
Its menu features distinctive international dishes from different cultures, along with specialties such as pickle soup, creative cocktails, and lovely ice creams.
The restaurant's radio show and stunning authentic decor really caters to a variety of tastes.
33. Hi-Point Drive-In
This is a fashionable dining spot situated in a converted drive-in of the 1980s, providing a contemporary take on sandwiches and burgers made with ingredients that are locally sourced.
Guests here have the option to personalize their burgers or enjoy chef-designed specialties such as the tasty Cowboy Burger.
This includes double patties, cheddar, bacon, pepper Jack, barbecue sauce, and onion rings.
The restaurant's modest facade reveals distinctive charm within, featuring nostalgic decor that pays tribute to icons of pop culture.
34. Pappy's Smokehouse
This is a well-known restaurant famous for its Memphis-styled barbecue smoked over wood.
For more than ten years, it has remained a cornerstone of St. Louis' thriving barbecue culture, alongside its sister establishment, Bogarts Smokehouse.
It is also renowned for its classic Memphis-style ribs, burnt ends, and pulled pork.
Bogarts features unique apricot-brulee finished ribs along with tri-tip and pastrami.
35. Acero
This is a fashionable Italian eatery situated in Maplewood, providing creative Italian cuisine via tasting menus and la carte.
Jim Fiala, the owner, has added roomy tents to the patio, creating inviting outdoor dining choices.
The tent has been positively embraced by visitors, ensuring a pleasant experience even during chillier conditions.
Acero has indeed led the way in introducing distinctive Italian dining to St. Louis.
36. Havana Cuisine Restaurant
Starting as a lovely food truck, Havana's Cuisine has recently opened a physical restaurant in Washington Avenue.
This restaurant is famous for its pressed sandwich assortment, with its Cubano sandwich being a highlight item.
Other additional favored choices here comprise the ropa vieja and pancon lechon sandwiches.
Also, alongside their iconic sandwiches, this restaurant features black bean traditional soup and slow-cooked tender pork meals.
37. Gioia's Deli
Gioia's Deli has transformed from a nice grocery store into a famous sandwich shop having four spots.
The original store on the iconic Hill is acknowledged as an "American Classic".
Gioia's is renowned for its salami called Salam Testa, created from pork and beef snouts.
38. Lonas Lil Eats
This is an inviting and one-of-a-kind St. Louis restaurant, celebrated for its Asian vegan-friendly fusion dishes.
Chef Lona Luo's distinctive cooking approach has received widespread acclaim since she launched her dumplings right at a nearby farmer's market.
The restaurant's menu features an array of items, including mushroom and steak-n-mushroom dumplings.
They also offer rice wraps that are filled with amazing smoked turkey or brisket in a delicious lemongrass pesto.
39. Crossing
Situated in Clayton, The Crossing provides a distinctive dining experience featuring creative, upscale dishes that blend Italian and French culinary traditions.
The eatery has become well-known for its alfresco dining idea, showcasing comfortable tents right on the terrace where guests can relish their food.
The menu here features inventive dishes including a salad having Iberico ham, Romano Pecorino cheese, arugula, and fennel, alongside veal cheek that is expertly braised.
40. Polite Society Restaurant & Bar
This restaurant, situated within St. Louis, provides a cozy and chic atmosphere for visitors to savor seasonal small dishes, cocktails, and main courses.
The restaurant offers a friendly environment with a carefully designed menu highlighting locally sourced products.
Whether you want a fast snack or an elaborate meal, their chef-inspired menu features a variety of dishes that vary with the seasons.
Their artisan cocktail selection is also impressive, making the restaurant a perfect option for those looking for a refined dining adventure with great service.
41. Songbird
This is a delightful local restaurant situated in Forest Park's Southeast, merely a few blocks away from the iconic Grove.
It provides a charming array of breakfast favorites, sandwiches, unique drinks, and coffee.
Songbird has become popular for its outstanding breakfast sandwich that includes egg, cheese, sea salt, optional bacon, and honey.
Also, its bialy topped with sesame seeds, Scottish house-cured salmon lox, capers, cream cheese, sieved egg, and pickled onion comes highly recommended as well.
42. Grace Meat and Three
This restaurant presents a contemporary take on the traditional meat & three idea, showcasing a selection of sides and proteins along with special offerings every night.
Its owner/chef Rick Lewis demonstrates his culinary expertise with "blue-collar" meals that radiate sophistication and artistry.
This restaurant is also famous for its creative Southern dishes, especially its highly praised fried chicken that has been named the best within Missouri.
43. iNDO
This is an upscale restaurant that boasts a patio for visitors to savor drinks and bite-sized dishes enriched with tastes of Southeast Asian flavors.
It has received acclaim as part of the top eateries in the USA.
Nick Bognar, the restaurant's proprietor, adeptly merges sushi customs with his extensive Southeast Asian fare and Thai background to craft distinctive plates like shrimp toast and lamb larb.
