Best Restaurants in St Louis Missouri

St Louis is a major Missouri city along the Mississippi River. The city has a metro area of 2.2 million with a family-friendly setting and close-knit communities. It boasts sophisticated shops, streets, and restaurants.

The Soulard district is a hub for BBQ restaurants, nightclubs, and entertainment activities. If you are looking for a city offering fun and adventure, you will discover a whole lot of options in St Louis. There are numerous attraction spots, exhibits, and cuisine, wrapped in a welcoming, diverse setting.

After a hectic day, you deserve a stop by the best restaurants in St Louis to refuel. This is why I have compiled these top picks for you. Keep reading as you make your choice.

1. Restaurants in St Louis: Sidney Street Café

Nestled in St. Louis’s Benton Park neighborhood, Sidney Street Cafe stands out as a beacon of contemporary American cuisine. It blends classic dishes with innovative twists. The restaurant crafts a menu that changes seasonally. However, the ingredients are locally sourced.

The variety of dishes served here is presented with artistic flair. The beverage selection complements the menu with a curated list of wines, craft cocktails, and local beers. Sidney Street Cafe attracts visitors and locals, from food enthusiasts celebrating special occasions to business professionals enjoying a sophisticated dining experience.

While the restaurant’s elegant indoor space creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, outdoor dining options are available, providing a charming setting during pleasant weather. Although the restaurant exudes a more upscale vibe, it’s advisable to check their pet policy if you’re considering bringing along a furry friend.

Moreover, the best time to visit is during dinner hours.

Address: 2000 Sidney St, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States

Phone: +1 314-771-5777

2. Restaurants in St Louis Missouri: Vicia

Located in the Cortex Innovation Community, Vicia celebrates vegetable-forward cuisine. You will be glad to sample the versatility and flavor of plants in dishes that appeal to both vegetarians and omnivores. The chef focuses on sustainable, farm-to-table dining. That means the menu changes based on what’s in season.

Also, the restaurant offers a casual lunch service and a more elaborate dinner experience. This includes a chef’s tasting menu that’s highly recommended for a full exploration of Vicia’s offerings. The drink menu features innovative cocktails, a thoughtful wine selection, and local brews.

Vicia’s clientele ranges from business professionals and health-conscious diners to foodies seeking a unique culinary experience. With a modern, airy interior and outdoor seating are available.

Address: 4260 Forest Park Avenue Entrance On Boyle, At Corner Of, Duncan Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States

Phone: +1 314-553-9239

3. Pappy’s Smokehouse

Renowned for its Memphis-style barbecue, Pappy’s Smokehouse is a must-visit for meat lovers in St. Louis. The restaurant’s slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork, and brisket are staples.

This is why you will always find long lines of locals and tourists. If you don’t mind having many people around, you will love it here. The casual, down-to-earth atmosphere is perfect for a laid-back meal.

Take your time to savor smoky flavors enhanced by a selection of homemade sauces. Pappy’s offers different sides to complement your meats, including sweet potato fries, baked beans, and slaw.

The drink menu includes a range of beers and soft drinks. You can pair them with your barbecue. Pappy’s is best visited during lunch or early dinner to avoid the peak crowds. But while the indoor space buzzes with energy, outdoor seating is available if you would prefer dining al fresco. As a casual spot, Pappy’s might be more flexible with pet-friendly policies outdoors, but it’s wise to check in advance.

Address: 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

Phone: +1 314-535-4340

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4. Brasserie by Niche

This French-inspired restaurant offers a taste of Paris in the Central West End neighborhood of St. Louis. Brasserie by Niche delivers classic French dishes with a modern American twist. It uses locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that includes favorites like steak frites, coq au vin, and escargot.

Also, the restaurant’s ambiance strikes a balance between casual and sophisticated. Hence, it is suitable for a variety of occasions. The drink selection boasts French wines, cocktails, and beers. Guests typically include a mix of couples, families, and groups of friends, all looking to enjoy a relaxed yet elegant meal.

Brasserie by Niche offers both indoor and outdoor seating, providing options for different weather conditions and preferences.

Address: 4580 Laclede Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States

Phone: +1 314-454-0600

5. Charlie Gitto’s On the Hill

As a landmark Italian restaurant in the historic Italian neighborhood “The Hill,” Charlie Gitto’s offers a blend of traditional Italian cuisine and St. Louis-style Italian dishes. As one of the top restaurants in St. Louis, it is known for its toasted ravioli, a St. Louis original. The restaurant also serves a variety of pasta, seafood, and veal dishes, prepared with time-honored recipes.

The wine list is extensive and features Italian and domestic wines that pair beautifully with the hearty, flavorful dishes. Charlie Gitto’s attracts a diverse clientele, from locals celebrating special occasions to visitors seeking an authentic taste of St. Louis’s Italian heritage.

In addition, the dining room provides a classic, old-world ambiance. The outdoor seating is available for those who prefer dining under the stars.

Address: 5226 Shaw Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

Phone: +1 314-772-8898

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6. Broadway Oyster Bar

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious seafood, Broadway Oyster Bar is a little piece of New Orleans in St. Louis. It specializes in Cajun and Creole cuisine. The restaurant also offers various seafood dishes, gumbos, jambalaya, and, of course, oysters.

Live music is often part of the experience. This makes it a spot that’s as much about entertainment as it is about dining. Different kinds of people patronize the restaurant, including locals and tourists seeking a fun, casual dining experience.

Besides, the best times to visit are during evenings and weekends when the music and crowd energy are at their peak. Broadway Oyster Bar provides both indoor and outdoor dining options, with the patio being a popular choice during warmer months.

Address: 736 S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, United States

Phone: +1 314-621-8811

8. Rooster

If you are looking for a top restaurant in St Louis, Rooster is a go-to spot for brunch enthusiasts. It offers a delightful mix of breakfast and lunch dishes with a European twist.

Fascinatingly, it is known for its delicious crepes. However, it also serves up omelets, sandwiches, and salads, paired with coffee beverages and cocktails. The atmosphere is laid-back and inviting, perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch.

The eatery attracts a mix of young professionals, families, and tourists, especially known for being a brunch hotspot. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, with a cozy setup for St. Louis’s varied weather. If you’re planning to dine with a pet, it’s best to inquire about their outdoor dining pet policy.

Address: 1025 Washington Ave St. Louis, MO 63101, USA

Phone: (314) 241-8118

9. The Fountain on Locust

This unique restaurant and ice cream bar offers a memorable dining experience with its retro-chic decor and inventive menu. The Fountain on Locust is famous for its house-made ice creams and desserts. It also has soups, salads, and sandwiches.

Undoubtedly, it’s a great spot for all ages, attracting families, couples, and groups looking for a fun and slightly nostalgic dining experience. The best time to visit is during the afternoons for lunch or early dinner. It is when you can enjoy their full menu and renowned ice cream treats. Finally, the restaurant primarily offers indoor seating.

Address: 3037 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103, United States

Phone: +1 314-535-7800

9. Eleven Eleven Mississippi

Offering a unique fusion of Northern California and Tuscan cuisine, Eleven Eleven Mississippi provides a sophisticated dining experience. It does so in a beautifully renovated warehouse.

The menu features innovative dishes that blend the flavors and techniques of both culinary traditions. These are complemented by an extensive wine list. The restaurant’s rustic yet elegant ambiance makes it a favorite for romantic dinners and special occasions.

Guests can choose from indoor seating, with its warm and inviting atmosphere, or outdoor dining in a charming patio setting.

Address: 1111 Mississippi Ave, St. Louis, MO 63104, United States

Phone: +1 314-241-9999

10. Anthonino’s Taverna

Blending Greek and Italian cuisines, Anthonino’s Taverna is a family-owned restaurant. As a top restaurant in St Louis, it offers a wide array of dishes from pizzas and pastas to gyros and dolmades.

The welcoming atmosphere, combined with hearty, flavorful dishes, makes it a popular spot for both families and groups of friends. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian comfort food or Greek specialties, Anthonino’s has something to satisfy your cravings.

They provide both indoor and outdoor seating. Hence, you can enjoy your meal in a setting that suits you.

Address: 2225 Macklind Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, United States

Phone: +1 314-773-4455

11. Nudo House STL

This vibrant spot is a haven for noodle lovers. It brings a creative twist on traditional ramen and pho. Nudo House’s innovative approach to these classic dishes, incorporating local ingredients and bold flavors, has made it a favorite among those who want to dine in good restaurants in St. Louis.

In addition, the restaurant has a modern, casual atmosphere. That is why it has become a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. It’s particularly popular among younger crowds and professionals seeking a flavorful, quick meal.

They typically offer indoor seating with a lively, bustling environment reflective of their innovative culinary approach.

Address: 11423 Olive Blvd St. Louis, MO 63141, USA

 Phone: (314) 274-8046

12. The Shaved Duck

Specializing in smoked meats and comfort food, The Shaved Duck is a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts. Their menu boasts a range of smoked meats, savory sides, and hearty dishes that showcase the best of American BBQ with a unique twist. The atmosphere is cozy and rustic, providing a warm, welcoming setting for a casual meal.

Again, The Shaved Duck is popular with locals and visitors alike, particularly attracting families and groups looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal. They offer both indoor and outdoor dining options, with the outdoor area providing a more relaxed vibe.

Address: 2900 Virginia Ave, St. Louis, MO 63118, United States

Phone: +1 314-776-1407

13. Juniper

This is a Southern cuisine restaurant that offers a modern take on traditional Southern dishes. Juniper features a menu that includes favorites like fried chicken, biscuits, and gumbo, all crafted with a contemporary flair.

The restaurant’s decor pays homage to Southern style, creating an inviting and warm atmosphere. This eatery is ideal for those seeking a taste of the South with a modern twist. No wonder it attracts a diverse clientele, including families, couples, and groups. They provide indoor seating in a charmingly decorated space, with the option to check for outdoor seating availability.

Note that this restaurant is permanently closed. Contact them for their new location.

Address: 4101 Laclede Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, United States

Phone: +1 314-329-7696

14. Mango Peruvian Cuisine

Offering a taste of Peru in the heart of St. Louis, Mango Peruvian Cuisine is the place to be. It serves up traditional Peruvian dishes, including ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina.

The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere, coupled with its authentic dishes, makes it a popular choice. Those looking to explore international flavors can visit during their stay in the city. Mango is frequented by a mix of adventurous food lovers, friends, families, and professionals. They offer a warm and inviting indoor dining area. However, checking for outdoor dining availability is recommended for those who prefer it.

Note that this eatery is temporarily closed. Find out when they will be open.

Address: 1001 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63101, United States

15. Restaurants in St Louis Missouri: Pastaria

An Italian restaurant focusing on fresh, handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas, Pastaria offers a casual yet lively dining experience. Their menu also features Italian wines and artisanal gelato. This rounds it out a robust dining experience.

The restaurant is particularly popular with families and groups looking for a casual meal in a vibrant setting. Pastaria’s open kitchen design adds to the lively atmosphere, providing diners with a glimpse into the pasta-making process.

They provide spacious indoor seating and may offer outdoor dining options, depending on the location.

Address: 7734 Forsyth Blvd, Clayton, MO 63105, United States

Phone: +1 314-862-6603

Conclusion

These establishments each bring a unique flavor to St. Louis’s dining scene. If you are looking to dine in a welcoming atmosphere, they have culinary experiences that cater to various tastes and dining preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty BBQ meal, exotic international flavors, classic Southern comfort food, or artisanal Italian cuisine, St. Louis has a wealth of options to explore.