21 Best Restaurants for a Birthday Dinner in St. Louis, MO in 2024
Finding the perfect venue for a birthday dinner in St. Louis can transform a special day into an unforgettable celebration. Luckily there are many options in the city for a unique birthday meal, whether you’re planning a big event with lots of guests or something more intimate.
To help you discover the perfect eatery for your special occasion, we’ve curated a helpful list of the top places for a birthday dinner in St. Louis. From elegant fine dining establishments to more casual eateries, you’re sure to find an excellent spot to host a memorable and delicious birthday party dinner.
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The 21 Best Birthday Dinner Restaurants in St. Louis, MO
1. Brasserie by Niche
Inspired by traditional French brasseries, Brasserie by Niche is ideal for a relaxed yet memorable and sophisticated birthday dinner in St. Louis. If planning a celebration earlier in the day, you can also book for brunch.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at Brasserie by Niche is casual and inviting, with a European flair. It features cozy booths, warm lighting and a lively bar scene that's ideal for a birthday night out with friends.
What to Order
When dining here, you can indulge in St. Louis food with a French twist. Favorites include steak frites, goat cheese tart and French onion soup. Finish up with an indulgent chocolate dessert.
Brasserie by Niche | 4580 Laclede Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 | $$
2. Sidney Street Café
Sidney Street Café is a St. Louis staple renowned for its inventive American cuisine. With multiple James Beard Award nominations under its belt, this restaurant is a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.
The Vibe
The ambiance is elegant yet cozy, with exposed brick walls and dim lighting creating an intimate setting that’s perfect for a special birthday dinner St. Louis-style
What to Order
Start your meal with a charcuterie board to share and delicious lobster turnovers. For your main, the halibut with turnip velouté, fava beans and potatoes or the farro risotto with pesto are both excellent choices that showcase the restaurant's creative flair.
Sidney Street Café | 2000 Sidney St., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$$
3. Olive + Oak
If you’re looking to put on a memorable birthday dinner around St. Louis, Olive + Oak can help thanks to its lively atmosphere, creative cocktails and exquisite dishes.
The Vibe
Modern décor, a large and well-stocked central bar and lots of natural light create a relaxed yet sophisticated place to dine. The addition of a bustling atmosphere makes Olive + Oak the perfect spot for a fun group birthday meal.
What to Order
Try the blue crab gratin or the famous Olive + Oak Burger, both of which are known for their exceptional flavors. Be sure to also try a few craft cocktails and end with a decadent dessert.
Olive + Oak | 216 W. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119 | $$
4. Tony's
An iconic institution in St. Louis, Tony's has been offering upscale Italian cuisine since 1946. Known for its impeccable service and fine dining experience, it has long been a favorite for celebrating special occasions, from birthday dinners in St. Louis to engagement parties and more.
The Vibe
Tony's exudes classic elegance with its white tablecloths, sophisticated décor and well-dressed waitstaff, making it a perfect choice for the classiest birthday dinner in St. Louis.
What to Order
Signature dishes include the expertly prepared and exquisitely presented lobster albanello and the filet de Burgo.
Tony's | 410 Market St., St. Louis, MO 63102 | $$$$
5. The Crossing
The Crossing is a fine dining restaurant that blends French and Italian culinary traditions. Chef Jim Fiala’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients shines through in every dish.
The Vibe
This classy venue offers a refined yet comfortable dining experience, with soft lighting and tasteful décor. It’s an ideal spot for all types of celebrations, from a meal with lots of friends and family to a more intimate date night birthday dinner with your other half.
What to Order
Any of the handmade pasta dishes are sure to impress. Indulging in the sea scallops with lemon truffle, shitake mushrooms and Parmigiano Reggiano is also a great option. There’s a tasting menu that’s worthy of a special occasion as well.
The Crossing | 7823 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, MO 63105 | $$$$
6. Farmhaus
Serving up farm-to-table dining with a Southern twist, Farmhaus is a unique entry on this list of the best places for a birthday dinner in St. Louis. Chef Kevin Willmann's dedication to local ingredients and sustainable practices is evident in every dish. As many menu items are seasonal, you’ll be able to try something new even if you’ve dined here before.
The Vibe
With a rustic yet chic interior, Farmhaus offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a laid-back and elegant birthday dinner in St. Louis.
What to Order
Don’t miss the pork belly or the smoked Missouri trout, both showcasing the freshest local produce. There’s also a tasting menu, with wine pairing optional, if you want to try as many dishes as possible.
Farmhaus | 3257 Ivanhoe Ave., St. Louis, MO 63139 | $$
7. Trattoria Marcella
Trattoria Marcella is renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and has been a firm local favorite for birthday dinners in St. Louis since its opening in 1995.
The Vibe
The eatery’s cozy, rustic décor and friendly service provide a comfortable setting for a relaxed birthday dinner in St. Louis.
What to Order
If you love pasta, try the toasted ravioli and the rigatoni, both of which are house specialties that highlight the restaurant's expertise in Italian cuisine. The ossobuco with polenta is also highly recommended.
Trattoria Marcella | 3600 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63109 | $$
8. Eleven Eleven Mississippi
Eleven Eleven Mississippi is housed in a converted warehouse in Lafayette Square and offers a unique Tuscan-inspired dining experience. Combining rustic charm with modern culinary techniques, this spot for a birthday dinner in St. Louis is perfect for lovers of innovative fare.
The Vibe
The restaurant’s interior is warm and inviting, featuring exposed brick, high ceilings and a cozy ambiance ideal for an intimate birthday dinner. Whether you’re inviting lots of friends or searching for birthday date ideas in St. Louis with your other half, booking a table here is sure to please.
What to Order
Try the wild boar ravioli for something a little different and end on a sweet note with poached pear and figs. This spot also has gluten-free and vegan menus, meaning there should be something for everyone in your dining party.
Eleven Eleven Mississippi | 1111 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$$
9. Nudo House
For a fun and casual birthday dinner in St. Louis, make reservations at Nudo House. This friendly local spot serves up a delightful array of Japanese ramen and Vietnamese-inspired dishes for you to enjoy with friends.
The Vibe
Nudo House features a vibrant, casual setting with colorful décor and a lively atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed and enjoyable celebration.
What to Order
Start with a few appetizers, including spring rolls, papaya salad and charred edamame. Favorites for the main course include the Nudo Ramen, featuring tonkatsu broth, pork and black garlic, and the beef pho that’s packed with authentic and comforting flavors. When on the menu, the beef and lobster pho also can't be missed.
Nudo House | Multiple Locations | $$
10. Vicia
Celebrated for its innovative approach to vegetable-forward cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and creative presentations, Vicia is a top eatery for those looking for plant-based and healthier dishes for their birthday dinner.
The Vibe
This popular restaurant in St. Louis offers a bright, modern atmosphere with an open kitchen and sleek design. For a perfect contemporary birthday dinner, vegetarians and those who love seasonal cuisine can’t get enough of this one!
What to Order
Menu highlights include mushroom lasagna and semolina gnocchetti. For seafood eaters, the crab bucatini and clams with cucumber, coriander and serrano chile oil are must-tries. To finish, add a few candles to the delicious frozen strawberry pie.
Vicia | 4260 Forest Park Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 | $$$
11. Katie's Pizza & Pasta Osteria
Another of the best places for a birthday dinner around St. Louis is Katie's Pizza & Pasta. This family-owned restaurant has a few locations in and around the city and is renowned for its artisan pizzas and handmade pasta dishes.
The Vibe
Katie's Pizza & Pasta offers a lively, modern atmosphere with a bustling open kitchen and bright and light décor.
What to Order
Try the wood-roasted chicken or the ricotta stuffed squash blossoms as an addition to a selection of pizzas and pasta dishes for the table to share.
Katie's Pizza & Pasta Osteria | Multiple Locations | $$
12. Annie Gunn's
Known for its hearty American fare and welcoming atmosphere, Annie Gunn's is a great spot for a celebration dinner with lots of guests.
The Vibe
With its rustic charm, including wood paneling and vintage seating, Annie Gunn's provides a comfortable setting for a fun and relaxed family birthday dinner around St. Louis.
What to Order
Don’t miss the smoked jumbo shrimp or the crispy fried chicken. There’s also a four-course prix fixe menu complete with wine pairing that is highly recommended.
Annie Gunn's | 16806 Chesterfield Airport Road, Chesterfield, MO 63005 | $$$
13. Pastaria
Another of the top places for a birthday dinner near St. Louis, Pastaria in Clayton offers approachable Italian fare in a casual yet stylish setting. The fresh, handmade pasta is the highlight of the menu but you’ll be impressed no matter what you order.
The Vibe
With its bright, airy space and open kitchen, Pastaria provides a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for all types of celebrations, including get-togethers with family of all ages.
What to Order
Favorites include the garganelli with braised beef and any of the pizzas, all dishes that capture simple, authentic Italian flavors.
Pastaria | 7734 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, MO 63105 | $$
14. Planter's House
Planter's House is known for its creative cocktails and modern American cuisine and is an excellent location for a more elevated birthday dinner in St. Louis.
The Vibe
Featuring a stylish, vintage-inspired interior with a lively bar and bustling atmosphere, Planter’s House is a festive spot that locals flock to, time and time again.
What to Order
The Planter’s House Burger is a crowd-pleaser while the chile-roasted pork with chorizo, creamy corn purée, brussels sprouts and a mojo rojo sauce is a more innovative and unique choice. No matter what food you get, be sure to try at least one craft cocktail from the extensive beverage menu.
Planter's House | 1000 Mississippi Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$
15. Frida’s
Frida's is a beloved vegetarian restaurant just outside central St. Louis, offering a diverse menu that caters to health-conscious diners and food enthusiasts alike.
The Vibe
The ambiance at Frida's is bright and welcoming, featuring colorful décor and lots of greenery. The casual and relaxed setting, coupled with attentive service, makes it a perfect spot for a laid-back birthday dinner St. Louis locals love.
What to Order
Popular dishes include the Frida Burger with a plant-based patty, kale salad and vegan chimichurri steak. Accompany your meal with a refreshing beverage, such as a hibiscus margarita or a smoked pineapple, lime and cranberry mocktail.
Frida's | 622 North and South Road, University City, MO 63130 | $$
16. The Tenderloin Room
The Tenderloin Room has been serving classic steakhouse fare since 1922. This iconic restaurant is known for its timeless elegance as well as its exceptional steaks.
The Vibe
With its luxurious décor and old-world charm, The Tenderloin Room provides an upscale setting for the most sophisticated birthday dinner in St. Louis.
What to Order
A steak dish is a must here. Accompany your meat with lobster and a Caesar salad, plus other steakhouse sides like creamed corn or garlic mashed potatoes.
The Tenderloin Room | 232 N. Kingshighway Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108 | $$$$
17. Louie
Offering a cozy neighborhood vibe, Louie is a charming spot with a focus on simple, high-quality Italian dishes.
The Vibe
Louie features a warm, inviting atmosphere with an open kitchen and friendly service, making it a great spot for a casual yet special birthday celebration with any number of guests.
What to Order
Favorites include the Margherita pizza and the pappardelle Bolognese, packed full of authentic flavors. Be sure to accompany your main meal with a bottle or two of Italian wine.
Louie | 706 De Mun Ave., Clayton, MO 63105 | $$
18. Polite Society
Polite Society offers a diverse menu of modern American cuisine in a beautifully restored historic building. The restaurant's name reflects its commitment to creating a welcoming community space.
The Vibe
With its warm, eclectic décor, exposed brick walls and inviting atmosphere, Polite Society is ideal for a cozy and intimate birthday dinner in St. Louis with a few close friends or your other half.
What to Order
Popular dishes include the Polite Society Caesar Salad and the bistro steak with crispy Brussels sprouts and maple Dijon dressing. There’s an excellent wine list to make a selection from as well.
Polite Society | 1923 Park Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$
19. Union Loafers
Celebrated for its artisanal bread and casual yet refined café menu, Union Loafers is a quaint choice for a birthday meal in St. Louis.
The Vibe
Union Loafers offers a relaxed, minimalist setting with an emphasis on quality and simplicity. For a laid-back birthday dinner, St. Louis locals love this spot.
What to Order
Try the turkey sandwich or any of the pizzas, all of which are a testament to the bakery’s exceptional baking prowess. The house sodas are also a must-order and be sure to finish with a birthday dessert.
Union Loafers | 1629 Tower Grove Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $
20. SqWires Restaurant
Housed in a former wire factory in Lafayette Square, SqWires Restaurant offers a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary American cuisine.
The Vibe
SqWires features exposed brick, high ceilings and a lively bar area, creating a vibrant atmosphere for a celebratory birthday dinner in St. Louis.
What to Order
Favorites include the chicken pot pie, truffle mac and cheese and the SqWires Burger. If you’re planning an earlier meal, you can benefit from the excellent happy hour menu as well.
SqWires Restaurant | 1415 S. 18th St., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$
21. Café Napoli
Café Napoli is a family-owned Italian restaurant known for its warm hospitality and classic dishes. Since 1989, it has been a go-to birthday restaurant near St. Louis that locals rave about.
The Vibe
This spot offers a lively, upscale atmosphere with elegant décor and a bustling bar area.
What to Order
Signature dishes include the linguine with clams and the veal saltimbocca, both of which are beloved for their authentic Italian flavors.
Café Napoli | 7754 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton, MO 63105 | $$$
Other Foodie Experiences in St. Louis
While dining out is one of many excellent birthday ideas in St. Louis, preparing your own meal adds some extra excitement to your celebration. At cooking classes in St. Louis, you and your birthday guests can learn to cook an array of dishes, from local favorites to international cuisine. You’ll also pick up some top cooking tips from your professional instructor and will get to enjoy the meal you’ve whipped up with your loved ones at the end of the session.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Finding the perfect spot for a birthday dinner in St. Louis can transform any celebration into an unforgettable experience. With a diverse array of restaurants in and around the city, ranging from elegant fine dining establishments to cozy, casual eateries, there is something to suit every taste and preference.
For even more ways to explore St. Louis and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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