33 Best Restaurants in St. Louis, MO for 2024
Are you searching for restaurants in St. Louis for a date night, weekday lunch meeting or casual get-together? Are you curious about the types of cuisine found in St. Louis? From St. Louis-style barbecue and pizza to gooey butter cake, toasted ravioli, St. Paul sandwiches and Midwest slingers, St. Louis food offers a variety of choices for hungry patrons.
St. Louis is also a wonderful destination to discover meat and produce of Midwest farms and fresh fish from the waters of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy lounge, outdoor dining or breathtaking waterfront views, read on for a helpful list of the 33 top restaurants in St. Louis, with something to satisfy all dining preferences.
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33 Best St. Louis Restaurants
1. Bowood by Niche
Bowood by Niche is one of eight restaurants in the Niche Food Group family. This restaurant in St. Louis is open for breakfast and lunch as well as special events.
The Vibe
Bright and airy, Bowood is located in the garden center at Bowood Farms. After you eat at this restaurant in St. Louis, make sure to check out the shop across the street for plants, home décor and gift items.
What to Order
For breakfast, some excellent options are the Vermont cheddar waffle or the eggs Benedict with prosciutto. For lunch, order a grilled cheese on cheddar-crusted sourdough or a grain bowl with wheat berries, sweet potato and goat cheese.
Bowood by Niche | 4605 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63108 | $
2. Songbird
Encounter the heart and soul of community dining and elevate your breakfast experience at Songbird. This restaurant in St. Louis is dedicated to serving locally sourced breakfast and lunch cuisine, crafting every dish with care and attention to detail and using the freshest ingredients available.
The Vibe
From the moment you step through the door, you'll feel the warmth of a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of togetherness and culinary excellence.
What to Order
Start your day with a classic breakfast sandwich, featuring aged white cheddar, applewood smoked bacon, a sunny fried farm egg and a drizzle of local honey, all nestled between griddled sourdough and sprinkled with sea salt for the perfect balance of savory and sweet. Pair it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Songbird | 4476 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $
3. Rooster
The perfect restaurant in St. Louis for breakfast or lunch, Rooster brings the farm to the table with locally sourced ingredients and organic produce.
The Vibe
This lively industrial-inspired restaurant in St. Louis is bright and colorful with sketch-style poultry art throughout.
What to Order
For breakfast, opt for sweet crêpes and pancakes or go savory with the Rooster Slinger, a Midwestern/Missouri diner favorite featuring a mixture of meat, potatoes, cheese and eggs.
Rooster | Multiple Locations | $
4. Creole With a Splash of Soul
Creole With a Splash of Soul brings Louisiana favorites to the Show-Me State at this Big Easy-inspired restaurant in St. Louis.
The Vibe
With bright walls and comfy seating, this restaurant in St. Louis is a neighborhood favorite for get-togethers, date nights or a solo evening out.
What to Order
Creole shrimp étouffée, Creole grilled salmon and gumbo filled with chicken, shrimp, sausage and rice are favorites at this restaurant in St. Louis. Finish off your meal with a delicious peach cobbler.
Creole With a Splash of Soul | 4353 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $
5. Trattoria Marcella
Trattoria Marcella has been serving traditional Italian cuisine since 1995. It’s one of the best restaurants in St. Louis for pasta, pizza and other Italian selections.
The Vibe
This corner neighborhood restaurant in St. Louis features linen tablecloths and a romantic ambiance.
What to Order
Toasted ravioli, a famous St. Louis food, is one of the favorites of the house. Other selections include lasagna al forno, veal marsala, braised pork shank and chicken risotto.
Trattoria Marcella | 3600 Watson Road, St. Louis, MO 63109 | $$
6. Gioia’s Deli
Dating to 1918, Gioia’s Deli is a neighborhood favorite for its fresh-sliced deli sandwiches.
The Vibe
This lively restaurant in St. Louis exudes bustling energy, offering the ideal setting for a casual meal.
What to Order
The favorite at Gioia’s is the overstuffed hot salami sandwich. Other great choices include an Italian sub or The Hogfather, which is made with bacon, salami and coppa.
Gioia’s Deli | 1934 Macklind Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $
7. Diana’s Bakery
Diana’s Bakery features a sweetly fragrant and mouthwatering array of Mexican sweets, including churros, filled donuts and sweet and savory empanadas as well as whole and sliced cakes.
The Vibe
Your neighborhood bakery vibe is alive and well at Diana’s Bakery. Peruse the glass shelves filled with treats of all types at this restaurant in St. Louis.
What to Order
Stock up on authentic bolillos, choose an array of conchas and galletas or pick up a tres leches cake topped with fresh fruit for a birthday, anniversary or other special occasion.
Diana’s Bakery | 2843 Cherokee St., St. Louis, MO 63118 | $
8. Pappy’s Smokehouse
Pappy’s Smokehouse is one of the best restaurants in St. Louis for authentic St. Louis barbecue. Think brisket, pork ribs and smoky baked beans. The ribs served here have even been named Best Ribs in America by the Food Network.
The Vibe
Pappy’s features indoor and outdoor seating with a friendly neighborhood hang-out vibe.
What to Order
You can’t go wrong with a thick slab of ribs, a pulled pork sandwich or a baked potato with all the toppings.
Pappy’s Smokehouse | 3106 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63103 | $$
9. Little Fox
Located in Fox Park, Little Fox is inspired by neighborhood Brooklyn bistros. Open for brunch and dinner, it’s the perfect restaurant in St. Louis for a date night, weekday meal or a special occasion.
The Vibe
This is notably the perfect restaurant if you are looking for date ideas in St. Louis. Featuring simple recipes, a stylish demeanor and a modern vibe, this intimate eatery offers indoor seating in a bright and airy setting, plus patio dining.
What to Order
Try the anchovy and rosemary marinated half chicken or share a series of small plates, including herb cavatelli, short ribs and roasted squash soup. Don’t miss the wild blueberry cake for dessert.
Little Fox | 2800 Shenandoah Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$
10. Bistro La Floraison
For pastries, baguettes and authentic French dishes, Bistro La Floraison makes a wonderful choice for dinner or Sunday brunch.
The Vibe
Chandeliers and distinctive French flair bring an elegant vibe to this bistro and wine bar.
What to Order
Order a trio of French cheeses or fresh oysters for a decadent treat at this restaurant in St. Louis. For a heartier meal, try the traditional fare of chicken cordon bleu or trout a la marinière with roasted cauliflower and lemon confit.
Bistro La Floraison | 7637 Wydown Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63105 | $$$
11. Chao Baan
Enjoy Northeast and Southern Thai cuisine at Chao Baan, which means “of the people.” Regional specialties prepared from family recipes are also served at this restaurant in St. Louis.
The Vibe
Light wood tables and cozy booths give a bright and simplistic approach to a casual dinner at this restaurant in St. Louis.
What to Order
Traditional pad thai, tom yum soup and slow-cooked massaman curry are always stellar choices at this St. Louis restaurant.
Chao Baan | 4087 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $$
12. City Foundry Food Hall
City Foundry Food Hall is one of the best restaurants in St. Louis if you’re traveling with a large group. This vast indoor food market holds 17 dining outlets that include those serving pizza, Afro-Caribbean fare, Argentinean cuisine and desserts.
The Vibe
Enjoy a casual and bustling vibe as everyone picks their favorite dishes and then sits together to eat.
What to Order
What you pick at this restaurant in St. Louis really depends on what cuisine you're after and whether you want sweet or savory. A few options include poke bowls, Asian-Mexican fusion and handcrafted waffles.
City Foundry Food Hall | 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110 | $$
13. Imo’s Pizza
In business since 1964, Imo’s Pizza is among the best restaurants in St. Louis, MO. The owners revolutionized the pizza industry with their unique blend of cheeses and the introduction of pizza delivery.
The Vibe
This is your neighborhood pizza place to enjoy a casual Italian meal with friends and family.
What to Order
For St. Louis-style pizza, you can’t beat Imo’s. This regional specialty is topped with Provel cheese (a creamy combination of cheddar, Swiss and provolone) on a thin crust. It’s then cut into square slices rather than the traditional wedge. You can also order toasted ravioli and Provel Bites to enjoy along with your pizza at this casual restaurant in St. Louis.
Imo’s Pizza | Multiple Locations | $
14. The Annex
The Annex offers the convenience of being a restaurant, a coffee shop and a gourmet food store all in one.
The Vibe
Simple and charming, you’ll find a variety of sandwiches, quiches and bakery items for breakfast, lunch or dinner at this restaurant in St. Louis. Enjoy indoor dining or sit outdoors on the covered patio.
What to Order
Order a BLT with house-cured Montreal bacon, a Cuban with Missouri ham or a chicken Caesar wrap. Don’t forget a chocolate macaroon to finish the meal.
The Annex | 8122 Big Bend Blvd., Old Orchard, Webster Groves, MO 63119 | $
15. Balkan Treat Box
If you’re looking for a unique place for lunch, Balkan Treat Box is a terrific option for restaurants near St. Louis. A wood-fired oven makes this spot a treat to enjoy a casual meal or business meeting lunch.
The Vibe
The ambiance at Balkan Treat Box is bright and colorful with light pine tables and walk-up counter service.
What to Order
Choose from traditional Turkish recipes with a modern twist, including balik ekmek (a sandwich with the fish of the day), wood-fired eggplant and wood-fired flatbread with parsley, lemon and onion.
Balkan Treat Box | 8103 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, MO 63119 | $
16. The Lucky Accomplice
Located in Fox Park, The Lucky Accomplice offers the choice of ordering small bites, creating a charcuterie board at the bar or enjoying a seven or 10-course menu.
The Vibe
Crystal chandeliers create an intimate vibe while an urban aesthetic delivers an industrial touch to this lively restaurant in St. Louis.
What to Order
Locally sourced cuisine is at the heart of the Lucky Accomplice. Opt for a charcuterie board that you build yourself to sample a bit of everything. Items to add include focaccia or cornbread, prosciutto, red cabbage marmalade and pickles. Sharing plates are also available and the cocktail list has a unique drink for all tastes.
The Lucky Accomplice | 2501 S. Jefferson Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $
17. Idol Wolf
Idol Wolf, located at 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis, draws inspiration from Spanish cuisine for its menu, which offers tapas-style dishes prepared with a Midwestern twist.
The Vibe
With its eclectic and stylish ambiance, Idol Wolf is a terrific restaurant in St. Louis for a romantic evening out.
What to Order
Authentic seafood paella, gambas al ajillo, patatas bravas and albondigas are all excellent choices at this restaurant in St. Louis.
Idol Wolf | 1528 Locust St., St. Louis, MO 63103 | $$$
18. Sameem Afghan Restaurant
If you’re looking for authentic Afghan cuisine, Sameen Afghan Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in St. Louis to check out.
The Vibe
The cozy and colorful storefront opens to an interior decorated with brick walls, unique art, textiles and murals.
What to Order
The eatery’s Mideast Feast includes falafel, hummus, eggplant boorani, naan and pashtoon salad. You could also try the mixed grill kebobs or the always-popular chicken tikka masala at this restaurant in St. Louis.
Sameem Afghan Restaurant | 4341 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $$
19 Sado
Sado serves traditional Japanese cuisine in the Italian-American neighborhood of The Hill. Enjoy a large menu of traditional fare, plus a long list of beer, wine, craft cocktails and spirits.
The Vibe
With colorful murals, bright accents and an industrial vibe, Sado is an excellent place to meet for drinks with friends. It's also ideal for a special occasion or even a casual meal with co-workers.
What to Order
Gyoza and steamed buns are favorites at this restaurant in St. Louis. Picking a few things from the extensive sushi menu is a must too.
Sado | 5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $$$
20. Hamilton’s Urban Steakhouse and Bourbon Bar
Hamilton’s Urban Steakhouse and Bourbon Bar serves the finest 100% black Angus Midwest beef along with produce that’s grown in an on-site hydroponic greenhouse.
The Vibe
Exposed brick, natural textures and local-inspired art accents bring a warm and inviting touch to this neighborhood eatery. Proper attire is required for an upscale dining experience.
What to Order
Share a charcuterie tray, slice into a 16-oz. ribeye or try the roasted dry-rub salmon served with shaved Brussels sprouts and asparagus.
Hamilton’s Urban Steakhouse and Bourbon Bar | 2101 Chouteau Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103 | $$$
21. Brasserie by Niche
If you’re looking for a romantic experience, you can’t go wrong by booking an evening at this upscale eatery. Brasserie by Niche features an easily identifiable bright red exterior and serves authentic French cuisine.
The Vibe
Red and white checkered tablecloths, elaborate flower displays, patio bistro tables and a buzzy vibe give this restaurant in St. Louis the air of a gourmet Paris café.
What to Order
Try a Brasserie classic — the pan-seared trout amandine. It's paired with crisp green beans, preserved lemon and a rich brown butter sauce.
Brasserie by Niche | 4580 Laclede Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 |
22. Sugarfire Smoke House
Check out Sugarfire Smoke House for the best mix of traditional and modern barbecue ingredients and methods. The award-winning eatery has been named Best Barbecue by the Travel Channel and featured on “Beat Bobby Flay.”
The Vibe
Sugarfire offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it ideal for family dinners and meet-ups with friends.
What to Order
Order thick and hearty sandwiches like the Cuban Reuben, a slaw-topped pulled pork sandwich or a thick and juicy brisket. If you’re more in the mood for fish, try the smoked salmon and a side of hush puppies.
Sugarfire Smoke House | Multiple Locations | $
23. Jovick Brothers Burgers
Jovick Brothers Burgers, located in Princeton Heights, is the go-to destination for burgers, chicken sandwiches and “glizzies” (hot dogs).
The Vibe
This restaurant in St. Louis is perfect for enjoying casual indoor seating or dining al fresco on the patio.
What to Order
Choose from hearty burgers or a chicken sandwich with Swiss or pepper jack. The menu also features vegan burgers and plant-based meatballs.
Jovick Brothers Burgers | 4993 Loughborough Ave., St. Louis, MO 63109 | $
24. El Milagro Azteca
One of the best St. Louis restaurants for hearty Mexican fare and happy hour specials is El Milagro Azteca, located in the Southwest Garden neighborhood.
The Vibe
Colorful décor, iron accents, a tin ceiling and a bustling bar make this restaurant in St. Louis a fun spot to enjoy time with family, friends or co-workers.
What to Order
Enchiladas, smoked pulled pork burritos, fresh chicken fajitas or the always popular quesabirria tacos are menu favorites.
El Milagro Azteca | 4940 Southwest Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110 | $
25. The Golden Hoosier
The Golden Hoosier, located in South City, offers a unique setting for great food and craft cocktails.
The Vibe
Located in a building dating to the 1930s, The Golden Hoosier features the ambiance of the Prohibition era combined with a bit of the Old West in its array of vintage taxidermy. Sit back and tell a story or two at this restaurant in St. Louis.
What to Order
Order smash burgers with sharp cheddar and bacon jam or topped with pepper jack and tomatillo salsa. You could also go light with grilled cheese and tomato soup.
The Golden Hoosier | 3707 South Kings Highway Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63109 | $
26. Olive + Oak
With its large booths and cozy tables, Olive + Oak is a wonderful restaurant in St. Louis for a rehearsal dinner, anniversary or romantic date night.
The Vibe
Bright and welcoming, you’ll find an elegant and friendly atmosphere at Olive + Oak. Sit at the bar or gather with friends over a bottle of craft beer or glass of wine.
What to Order
Share a 32-oz. cowboy ribeye, try the baked clams or go for the ground goat ragù at this one-of-a-kind restaurant in St. Louis.
Olive + Oak | 216 West Lockwood Ave., St. Louis, MO 63119 | $$$
27. Polite Society
Polite Society is one of the best restaurants in St. Louis to gather with friends for drinks or a great meal. It’s open for dinner and weekend brunch.
The Vibe
If you are looking for warm and cozy restaurants, this casual restaurant in St. Louis delivers a snuggly vibe with warm wood, red brick, charming bookshelves and iron accents.
What to Order
French toast covered in powdered sugar and topped with fresh fruit is a breakfast staple. For dinner, choose any of the pan-roasted salmon dishes, the seared scallops and bacon risotto or the stuffed acorn squash with root vegetables.
Polite Society | 1923 Park Ave., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $$$
28. Retreat Gastropub
Retreat Gastropub, located in the Central West End, is one of the best restaurants in St. Louis to gather with friends. Enjoy craft brews and modern American cuisine with a rustic twist.
The Vibe
Retreat offers a bright and casual ambiance with eclectic art, warm wood tones and a stone-top bar. Sit indoors, in the enclosed sunroom, or outdoors on the patio at this restaurant in St. Louis.
What to Order
Menu selections include sausage and pepper flatbread, an eggplant sandwich with feta spread and seared salmon with pesto aioli.
Retreat Gastropub | 6 N. Sarah St., St. Louis, MO 63108 | $
29. Papa Shihs
Papa Shihs is one of the best restaurants in St. Louis for Chinese-Korean fusion cuisine.
The Vibe
This casual spot, which has no on-site seating, is the ideal place to grab takeout that you can enjoy in a nearby park or the comfort of your home.
What to Order
Traditional homemade noodle dishes, sweet and sour pork or hunan chicken are all excellent choices.
Papa Shihs | 23 South Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63108 | $
30. The Blue Duck
The Blue Duck, located in Downtown Maplewood, features an array of scratch-made comfort food and unique sandwiches. This restaurant in St. Louis is open for brunch and dinner.
The Vibe
Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and an interior complete with vintage décor, bright walls, rustic wood and cozy seating.
What to Order
For brunch, consider a bacon, ham and cheese burrito or eggs Benedict with smoked duck ham. Dinner calls for shrimp and grits, a Nashville hot chicken sandwich or risotto with roasted mushrooms and braised leeks. Check out the glass bakery case for a treat or two before you leave.
The Blue Duck | 2661 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood, MO 63143 | $$
31. Taco Buddha
Craving tacos? Look no further than Taco Buddha and its extensive array of unique tacos, chips and soups.
The Vibe
Sit inside the small and bustling interior or dine outdoors on the patio at this restaurant in St. Louis.
What to Order
Try The Nashville, filled with New Mexico chiles and Nashville-style chicken. Other selections include The Baja and its crispy battered fish or The Thai Street Beef with braised brisket and griddled onions.
Taco Buddha | 7405 Pershing Ave., University City, MO 63130 | $
32. Peacemaker Lobster & Crab
James Beard-winning Chef Kevin Nashan mixes his favorite fare, such as New England-style seafood and Santa Fe favorites, into the menu at Peacemaker Lobster & Crab.
The Vibe
Rustic wood, industrial-inspired seating and whitewashed brick decked out with waterman photos indicate a casual and laid-back dining experience. Don’t be afraid to get messy here.
What to Order
Try a Buffalo crawfish po’boy, a lobster boil or a big bowl of gumbo at this restaurant in St. Louis.
Peacemaker Lobster & Crab | 1831 Sidney St., St. Louis, MO 63104 | $
33. Shabu Day
Shabu Day is one of the best restaurants in St. Louis to enjoy the experience of Korean hot pot dining.
The Vibe
The warm and lively atmosphere is complemented by K-pop music, colorful murals and the all-you-can-eat community dining format.
What to Order
Experience the fun of choosing noodles, vegetables, meat and other ingredients to create a customized hot pot meal with two different types of broth.
Shabu Day | 8235 Olive Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63132 | $$
Try Cooking St. Louis Foods
Searching for ways to boost your culinary expertise? Sometimes cooking dishes yourself can be a fun and comforting experience. As an alternative to dining out, cooking classes in St. Louis can teach you the secrets to cooking the cuisine that makes St. Louis famous, allowing you to bring your favorite meals right to your own kitchen.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
When it comes to dining in St. Louis, the options are endless. From mouthwatering barbecue joints to cozy Italian eateries and everything in between, the city offers something to satisfy every craving. Choosing a favorite restaurant in St. Louis is no easy task, given the abundance of delicious options. Whether you're into upscale dining or casual bites, there's a spot that will capture your taste buds. So, go ahead, explore and savor the flavors of St. Louis — it's a delicious adventure waiting to happen!
For even more ways to explore St. Louis and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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