St. Louis Dining Guide: 2016 Edition

2016 edition

more than

500

RE S TA U RANT S IN S IDE

share your fun by using #westportstl BACKSTREET JAZZ & BLUes club • BRadford’s pub Dino’s Deli • Drunken Fish • FAMILY NUTS Funny bone comedy club • Fuzzy’s Taco Shop Gateway Newstands • IMO’s pizza • Jive & Wail Kobe japanese steakhouse • Mcdonalds Patrick’s Westport Grill • Paul Mineo’s Trattoria Playhouse @ Westport Plaza • STARBUCKS Sheratons at westport • St. Louis bread company Trainwreck Saloon Intersection of I-270 and Page Avenue St. Louis, MO 63146 • 314.576.7100 g Comin SOon!

Dining Guide 20 16 EDITION You are holding St. Louis Magazine’s annual Dining Guide. Written from an insider’s point of view by SLM’s dining team, it’s an essential compendium of restaurants across metro St. Louis. To best enjoy our region’s robust dining scene, we suggest that you keep copies at home, at work, and in your car. Cheers, and bon appétit! —George Mahe

DOWNTOWN p. 5

Central West End p. 20

Ladue, Frontenac, Creve Coeur & Olivette

FAR WEST COUNTY p. 44

p. 34

Midtown & Grand Center p. 7

DOGTOWN & THE HILL p. 24

Soulard, Benton Park & Lafayette Square p. 9

South City & COUNTY

University City & THE Delmar Loop

p. 18

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

p. 37

p. 46

metro east p. 49

p.26

CLAYTON p.31

p. 12

north city & COUNTY

Maplewood, Brentwood & Richmond Heights

st. charles & Beyond

KIRKWOOD, WEBSTER GROVES, ROCK HILL & DES PERES

multiple locations p. 51

p. 41

Key

RESTAURANT CUISINE HO U R S

Address

co v e r P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y

$ = Entrées $10 or less $$ = Entrées $11–$17 $$$ = Entrées $18–$24 $$$$ = Entrées $25 or more

KEVIN A. ROBERTS

Dining Guide 2016

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DT atmosphere mixes industrial chic with country nostalgia.

Lunch and dinner daily.

920 Olive, 314-241-8121, baileysrange.com. $

Ballpark Village

Rooster

DOWNTOWN DT

Al’s Restaurant

Anthony’s Bar

S t e a k ho u s e . This time portal back to the genteel era of dinner-jacketed waiters, swanky cocktails, and stockyards of beef manages to make “dated” a very good (if pricey) thing. Steaks are superb, service is perfectly polished, and the atmosphere’s decidedly formal.

Al’s is a memorable experience of elegant dining.

D i n n e r T u e – S at. 1200 N. First, 314-421-6399, alsrestaurant.net. $$$$

A m e r i ca n . The glossy, sophisticated bar tucked into the ground floor of the Equitable Building shares both kitchen and ownership with Tony’s. Lunch is busy, and dinner, with an eclectic menu, quieter. At dinner, you can order anything on the Tony’s menu and have it served to you here. Save room for pastry Meisterin Helen Fletcher’s desserts.

L u n ch T u e - F r i , d i n n e r

10 S. Broadway, 314-231-7007, saucecafe. com/tonys. $$ T u e – Sat.

Baileys’ Range am e r i ca n. If beef patties aren’t sufficient for your fix at the city’s most extravagant burger bar, consider alternatives like bison, pork, or lamb. House-made sauces sparkle; toppings are imaginative. Don’t neglect the local brews and booze-infused shakes. The

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

American. Naysayers who suspected this would be a cheesy tourist trap are now eating their words.

Developers have provided both major league visuals, entertainment (even in the offseason), and five dining options. At Cardinals Nation, reserve a spot on the AT&T Rooftop that includes ticketed seats overlooking Busch Stadium, an AYCE buffet and beverages, plus free passage into the Cardinals Hall of Fame Museum.

At the Budweiser Brew House, when people say “we’re here for the beer,” they could be referring to the beer flights, the selfserve 21-foot tap wall, or the 24 ABI-family beers on draft. Anchored by a monster 40-foot LED TV, FOX Sports Midwest Live! is BPV’s spectacular, actionpacked hub, the ideal perch for a beer and a Bacon Three Way Burger either pregame, postgame, or during special events. H o u rs vary.

601 Clark, 314-345-9481, ballparkvillage.com. $$

Bridge Tap House and Wine Bar A m e r i ca n . Bridge is all about upscale noshing: cheese and charcuterie platters, along with offbeat but delicious snacks such as duck tacos. If you can’t find one of the 200 beers or 100 wines to like, you’re too fussy. Brick walls and crowded tables make for a handsome but noisy environment. Lu n ch a n d dinner daily. 1004 Locust, 314-241-8141, thebridgestl. com. $$

Broadway Oyster Bar Ca j u n /C r e ol e .

Live mu-

sic nightly makes les bon temps rouler, but those charbroiled oysters, jambalaya, and catfish don’t hurt. It’s not a dive but instead a dip; don’t be put off by the scruffy exterior.

Inside, it’s friendly and happily packed, with wonderful beer and drinks. Lunch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 736 S. Broadway, 314-621-8811, broadwayoysterbar.com. $$

Carmine’s Steakhouse S t e a k ho u s e . Beef gets all the attention, though savvy diners at this splendidly formal eatery in the shadow of the Arch often opt for specialties such as chicken Gorgonzola and spinaci scallops. A classic steakhouse with a long history, it’s the perfect destination for a special evening. D i n n e r da i ly.

20 S. Fourth, 314-241-1631, lombardosrestaurants.com. $$$$

Charlie Gitto’s downtown Ital i a n . Celeb photos line the walls of this iconic downtown spot, where locals and tourists mix. The menu’s a textbook of ItalianAmerican dishes: pastas, veal, steaks, chicken—and a stup endous seafo o d risotto. Lunch and dinner Mon–sat. 207 N. Sixth, 314436-2828. $$

Cielo Italian. Few local restaurants can match Cielo for its combination of sleek sophistication and exquisite dining. Vistas of the riverfront are stunning.

The atmosphere is cool, refined. The menu tilts Italian with a decidedly upscale twist—veal-and-truffle ravioli—and an excellent wine list. Breakfast and lunch mo n – fr i , d i n n e r da i ly, br u n ch sat & s u n . 999 N. Second, 314-881-2105, cielostlouis.com. $$$$

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DT Copia restaurant and urban winery A m e r i ca n . Relaxed and comfortable (especially on the charming patio), Copia’s the place for an evening spent noshing and sampling wine. Three-course specialties are a great bargain.

Smaller offerings—such as arancini—are notable. The attached retail wine store is impressive. Lunch Mon– Fri, dinner Mon–Sat. 1122 Washington, 314-241-9463, copiastl.com. $$$

Hiro Asian Kitchen Perhaps the city’s only restaurant to make “Asian fusion” worthwhile, Hiro serves up such imaginative dishes as the San-Pei Chicken Claypot. Ramen with pork belly is a must-try. The décor is cool, the service is friendly, and the Asian eats are amazingly good (and don’t forget the cocktails).

The Sunday brunch is spectacular. L u n ch t u e – S at, Asian.

crab cakes Benedict to jambalaya, all presented with inventive flair. Affable service and a nice drink selection make sometimes-long waits more agreeable. Try the funnel fries for dessert.

Lu nch and dinner daily.

626 N. 6th, 314-241-5454, thekitchensink.letseat.at. $

lombardo’s trattoria See “Multiple Locations.”

Dinner Tue–Sun, brunch

Lucas Park Grille

1405 Washington , 314 -241- 4476, hiroasiankitchen.com. $$$

A m e r i ca n . This is one of few downtown eateries open into the wee hours, and many a night’s revelry concludes here. There’s also an unrestrained menu, including smoked wild boar ribs and lobster ravioli. You’ll find plenty of TVs, but they don’t overwhelm the clubby atmosphere. Lunch Mon–Fri,

sat & s u n .

J.F. Sanfilippo’s Italian Restaurant & Bar italian. Enjoy old-school Italian dining and decorum within walking distance of Washington Avenue. Don’t miss owner Joe Sanfilippo’s Rigatoni Giuseppe, which is made with a spicy vodka cream sauce that’s so tasty, he sells bottles of it to go.

dinner daily, Brunch Sat & Sun. 1234 Washington, 314-

241-7770, lucasparkgrille. com. $$

l u n ch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r

705 N. Broadway, 314-621-7213, jfsanfilippos. com. $$$ mon–sat.

joey b’s See “Multiple Locations.”

Kemoll’s Italian Restaurant Death in the Afternoon A m e r i ca n . Snag a patio s e at on game day, when Death in the Afternoon comes alive. Order a craft cocktail and the staff-recommended Cubano sandwich, and you’ll find pro of that Blo o d and Sand’s little sister is a stunner. s e aso n al ho u rs . 808 Chestnut , 314-621-3236, deathinthe afternoonstl.com.$$

Italian. Kemoll’s is part of St. Louis’ Italian restaurant royalty. Get a seat near windows that offer wonderful views; sunset dinners here are unforgettable. The fare is traditional Italian; the steaks are outstanding. The atmosphere is refreshingly formal, and service is friendly. A $30 “early dinner” menu is a terrific bargain. Lu n ch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r M o n – Sat. 211 N. Broadway, 314-421-0555, kemolls.com. $$$$

DRunken Fish

The Kitchen Sink

See “Multiple Locations.”

The Kitchen Sink’s well-named: The menu is a Cajun-Creole– based carnival ride, from

Gioia’s Deli See “Multiple Locations.”

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Cajun/Creole.

Dining Guide 2016

Medina Mediterranean Grill M e d i t e rra n e a n . Those jonesing for shawarma who happen to wander into this pint-sized diner downtown will find an essential example of the dish here. You might also be surprised at owner Ibrahim Ead’s willingness to meld other cuisines into Middle Eastern standards: Care for a little chipotle? Lu n ch da i ly, d i n n e r Mon–Sat. 1327 Washington, 314-241-1356, medinagrill. com. $

mr. curry’s india restaurant See “Multiple Locations.”

pi pizzeria See “Multiple Locations.”

Porano Pasta Ital i a n . D o w n t o w n St. Louis became the envy of the region when James Beard Award–winning chef Gerard Craft opened a fastcasual restaurant serving sustainable ingredients on a menu priced under $10.

Keep an eye out for the specials: Craft and his team use Porano to test dishes for all of Niche Food Group’s restaurants. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 634 Washington, 314-833-6414, poranopasta. com. $$

robust See “Multiple Locations.”

Mango

rooster

You don’t always crave Peruvian chow, but when you do, you head for this downtown eatery. A menu describes the spicy, exotic fare, and servers competently explain the details. Don’t neglect the Pisco Sours. The interior’s chic, beautifully lit, and recommended for a romantic date. L u n ch

See “Multiple Locations.”

so u th am e r i ca n .

M o n – Sat, d i n n e r da i ly.

1001 Washington, 314-6219993, mangoperu.com. $$

ruth’s chris steakhouse See “Multiple Locations.”

sauce on the side See “Multiple Locations.”

Schlafly Tap Room Bar & Grill. St. Louis’ first brewpub knew that in this town, it would have to get the food right, as well as the beer. And so it did: fish and

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

chips, mussels and ditto, and, above all else, sticky toffee pudding. There’s space to stretch out, live music, and frequent festivals. What else do you need?

Lunch and dinner daily.

2100 Locust, 314-241-2337, schlafly.com/tap-room. $$

Sen Thai Asian Bistro A s i a n. All of your favorite Thai dishes—noodles, curries, and soups—are served in an elegant setting. This lunch destination is popular with downtown workers; you’ll get a table faster at dinner. Try the Bamee BBQ Pork, a Thai street food classic that’s found in few local Thai places. L u n ch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r da i ly.

1221 Locust, 314-436-3456, senthaibistro.com. $$

Shift, Test Kitchen & Take Out Keep up with the latest food trends at this test kitchen–incubator, which offers recipe research and development for Dave Bailey’s ever-growing roster of restaurants. It’s open on weekdays for togo lunch only; service is lightning fast (and even faster if you order online).

L UN C H M O N – F R I . 313 N. 11th, 314-932-7443, shifttest kitchen.com. $ A m e r i ca n .

The Sliced Pint Pizza. Those amazing pies with a toasted ravioli crust are acclaimed, but don’t overlook the delightful sandwiches, including one packed with house-made meatballs and a blanket of gooey mozzarella. More than 30 beers on tap should satisfy even the most discriminating suds sophisticate. L UN C H A N D D INNE R D A I LY. 1511 Washington, 314-696-8787, theslicedpint. com. $$

sugarfire smoke house See “Multiple Locations.”

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Tazé Mediterranean Street Food M e d i t e rra n e a n . Start with a saffron rice bowl or a house-baked pita. Choose one: chicken or beef seared on skewers, gyro meat, grilled portobello, or flavorful falafel. Top it, sauce it, add a side of your choice, and choose from one of three hummus flavors.

That’s street food the Tazé way. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 626 Washington, 314-254-7953, tazestreet food.com. $

Three Sixty S mall P lat e s . Famous for its wraparound vistas, Three Sixty has fire pits and cocktails that make for convivial gatherings.

The menu’s a modern take on tapas, with fish tacos and individual pizzas. It’s hip, chic, and often busy.

D i n n e r da i ly. 1 S. Broadway, 314-421-1776, 360-stl. com. $$

Midtown Sushi

Midtown & Grand Center MGC

Tony’s

BaiKu Sushi Lounge

Curtain Call Lounge

For many St. Louisans, this legendary place defines decorous dining. It’s a panoply of tableside presentations, genteel service, and a lavish atmosphere that balances just short of ostentatious. Sauces are luxuriant, ingredients are impeccable, and preparations are flawless. It’s expensive but worth it. Dinner T ue–Sat. 410 Market, 314-231-7007, saucecafe.com/tonys. $$$$

Urbane lounge meets sushi joint.

The interior is swank, cool; the menu is wrapped around good sushi, teriyaki, and other Japanese specialties.

It’s popular with the hipoisie but a place for a serious dinner or relaxing drinks.

Probably the best selection of sake, including some unusual gems, in town. Lunch

A m e r i ca n . This elegant room feels like a nightclub, with original posters and almost as much glitz as its parent, the Fox Theatre.

You’ll find light food and plenty of choices for sparkling wine by the glass—order and prepay for a drink at theater intermission.

Don’t miss the aioli for

Italian.

Japane se/Sushi.

Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–sat.

3407 Olive, 314-896-2500, baikustl.com. $$$

wasabi sushi bar See “Multiple Locations.”

Wheelhouse A m e r i ca n . This sports bar offers a from-scratch menu of pub favorites, tons of TVs, and a great beer selection. It’s enough to ke ep any sp or ts lover happy. LUNCH AND DINNER DA I LY. 1000 Spruce, 314833-3653, wheelhousestl. com. $$

Café Ventana A m e r i ca n. Known for its New Orleans influence— beignets, chicory coffee, and muffulettas—this café draws students and faculty alike from nearby SLU. The spiked coffees, flavored with house-made syrups, are a sure thing. B r e a k fast, lunch, and dinner daily.

3919 W. Pine, 314-531-7500, cafeventana.com. $ Dining Guide 2016

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MGC your French fries. Check the website for occasional lunch openings. DINNER ON S H OW NIG H T S, F R I , & SAT.

521 N. Grand, 314-534-1678, fabulousfox.com. $$

The Dark Room w i n e bar . The perfect complement to Grand Center’s fine-arts venues, this place is both wine bar and photography gallery, and it regularly offers live music. The emphasis is on wine and paired comestibles— cheese boards, flatbreads, and charcuterie—but be sure to save room for a boozy affogato.

Happy hour tue–Fri, dinner Tue–Sat. 615 N. Grand,

314-531-3416, thedarkroom stl.com. $$

lar, intimate space. Diners can choose three courses as part of the prix fixe option, order individual items, or go for the small plates. New Orleans–inspired soul food punctuates several of the dishes. D i n n e r n i g htly

PaPPo’s Pizzeria & Pub Brewery & Pub. What better place for pizza and beer than a place that makes its own brews on site? PaPPo’s has taken full advantage of the departed Six Row Brewing’s facilities, offering a selection of 15 of its own beers, from standard pilsner to blood orange IPA, plus a few guest selections. LUNCH A N D D INNE R DA I LY. 3690 Forest Park, 314-833-3171, papposbrewco.com. $$

LoRusso’s on Grand Ital i a n . Rich and Terri LoRusso’s trattoria offers both a sit-down menu and a buffet. Consider the pork osso buco (available with either option), which is even more succulent than the traditional veal. The place definitely goes beyond Travs. LUN C H B E FO R E SAT– SUN FOX MATINEES, DINNER B E F O R E F OX S H O W S .

A m e r i ca n . With a fourwall mural, eccentricities such as the World’s Smallest Hot Fudge Sundae, and award-winning bathrooms, this is a must for the young and young at heart. Pages of drinks, eats, and ice cream treats await you. Standouts include the Polish Dill Pickle Soup, Fig and Bacon Flat, and Coconut Almond Joy ice cream. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r T u e – S u n . 3037 Locust , 314-535-7800, fountainonlocust.com. $

601 N. Grand, 314-601-3063. lorussos.com/ongrand. $$

Midtown Sushi & Ramen Japanese . The restaurant serves the most authentic ramen in town, Nagasaki style, with shrimp and cabbage. Fried karaage chicken nibbles and squid tentacles are a taste of Japan. It’s roomy, so even when the place is full it doesn’t feel crowded. Bonus: Outlets at every table are available to charge your laptop. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 3674 Forest Park, 314-328-2452, midtown-sushi.com. $$

B arb e c u e . This awardwinning spot serves arguably the best Memphisstyle barbecue in its class.

Sample the dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork to see why people don’t mind waiting in long lines and why items often sell out.

Lunch and Early dinner

The bistro’s menu matches this singuA m e r i ca n .

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3106 Olive, 314535-4340, pappyssmoke house.com. $$ lunch Sun.

Dining Guide 2016

A m e r i ca n . New ownership for the former City Diner location meant a change in menu and décor.

We’re happy to suggest the mushroom toast, long slices of French bread with cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and a sprinkling of balsamico.

Breakfast is served anytime, and you’ll also find a full bar and elevated coffee service.

B R E A K FA S T A N D L UN C H DA I LY, D INNE R T UE – S UN .

541 N. Grand, 314-533-7500, stageleftdiner.com. $

sweetie pie’s See “Multiple Locations.”

Small Batch vegetarian. A vegetarian menu is paired with dark spirits inside a former Ford Model T showroom. Housemade pastas and smoked Brie stand up well to 60-plus whiskeys, served neat or mixed with house-made bitters, tonics, and tinctures.

Dinner daily, lunch Sun.

3001 Locust, 314-380-2040, smallbatchstl.com. $$

Triumph Grill A m e r i ca n . This motorcycle-themed restaurant has a menu with lots of twists and turns. The Build Your Triumph Burger option provides plenty of choices for carnivores (beef, turkey, and bison) and vegetarians (black bean) with such “premium accessories” as caramelized bacon and seared wild mushrooms. B r e a kfast a n d l u n ch da i ly,

3419 Olive, 314-446-1801, triumph grill.com. $$ dinner tue–sat.

Vito’s Sicilian Pizza & Ristorante

Pappy’s Smokehouse

Mon–sat, lunch and late

Jazz at the Bistro

Stage Left Diner

3536 Washington, 314-571-6000, jazzstl.org/jazz-at-thebistro/dining. $$ at 7: 3 0 & 9 : 3 0 p. m .

This little spot has both usual and unusual barbecue fare, such as chicken rib tips in a cranked-up spicy-sweet St. Louis–style sauce. Excellent side dishes include spicy greens and sweet potatoes. Dixon’s is open from lunch until the food runs out. LUNCH TUE–SAT. 3674 Forest Park, 314-833-4161, dixonsmoke.com. $$

The Fountain on Locust

3108 Olive, 314531-4668, stlsouthern.com. $ lunch sun.

d u r i n g p e rforma n c e s

Dixon’s Smoke Company B arb e c u e .

wed –Sat, lunch and late

Southern southern. Chef Rick Lewis and Pappy’s Smokehouse’s Mike Emerson have created a winning combination of Nashville hot chicken and New Orleans–style sandwiches. Lines are often out the door, so go early.

Lunch and early dinner

Italian. A favorite among SLU students and faculty, Vito’s serves Sicilian-style pizza and other family recipes. The Quattro Formaggi pizza, with mozzarella, Fontina, Gorgonzola, and Parmigiano -Reggiano cheeses, won’t disappoint.

Happy hour specials on beer, wine, and drinks can be found 3–6 p.m. Monday through Friday. L u n ch mo n – sat, d i n n e r da i ly.

3515 Lindell, 314-534-8486, vitosstl.com. $$ Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

SBL Blues City Deli american. On Thursdays and Saturdays, the joint is packed as patrons gather for live music of a New Orleans bent. Every day, it’s a destination for exceptional sandwiches, including a massive muffaletta. Lunch M o n – S at, d i n n e r th u .

2438 McNair, 314-773-8225, bluescitydeli.com. $

Bogart’s Smokehouse

Element

At Soulard’s most celebrated BBQ joint, tales of life-changing meals of brisket, smoked turkey, and baked beans are only slight exaggerations. The usual challenges of any great BBQ place are here— long lines and “We outta that” are testaments to its popularity—but it’s absolutely worth it. Lunch Mon–

American. The restaurant has a welcome fetish for beautiful presentations.

The menu’s a constantly changing reflection of the chef ’s whims. The atmosphere is classy and understated, with a magnificent open-air lounge upstairs.

Element was named “Best Restaurant With an Attached Rock- Climbing Gym.” d i n n e r T u e – S at.

1419 Carroll, 314-241-1674, elementstl.com. $$

B arb e c u e .

S at, d i n n e r F r i & S at.

1627 S. Ninth, 314-621-3107, bogartssmokehouse.com. $$

Planter’s House

Soulard, Benton Park & Lafayette Square SBL 33 Wine shop & Bar Wine Bar. It’s dim, comfy,

relaxed. Like a neighborhood pub—with a staggeringly expansive wine list and a selection of beer that isn’t much smaller.

There are no full meals, but you’ll find high tea– type cheeses and meats well matched to the wine.

Dinner Tue–Sat. 1913 Park, 314-231-9463. $$

Baileys’ Chocolate Bar café. Think of it as a shrine for chocolate lovers. Desserts—brownies, cakes, and ice cream—range from the extravagant to the demented. The signature chocolate martini is legendary. There’s also an

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

array of nibbles—pizzetas, hummus, empanadas— that serve as the perfect complement to a tantalizing, diverse menu of liquor and beer. D i n n e r da i ly.

1915 Park, 314-241-8100, baileyschocolatebar.com. $$

Benton Park Café café. Booze smoothies start the day right here— and though sandwiches and soups are fine for later, breakfast pizzas and burritos make this place special. Get a seat at the bar to feel the heart of morning in St. Louis.

B r e a k fast a n d l u n ch da i ly, d i n n e r fr i & sat.

2901 Salena, 314-771-7200, bentonparkcafe.com. $

capitalist pig BBQ Located in a former police station, both the atmosphere and the barbecue are unconventional.

Capitalist Pig is the only area BBQ joint that goes whole hog—literally: buying whole hogs (many of them heritage breeds) and using the entire animal, snout to tail. It’s like eating traditional pulled pork at a pig roast. Lunch wed – sun. 2727 S. 12th, 314-7721180, capitalistpig.com. $$ barb e c u e .

Egg caf é . An imaginative breakfast and brunch menu, including several Benedicts, hashes, breakfast tacos, and even sopes. Highly recommended for something a little different, or even the same ol’ eggs, bacon and toast. There’s a full bar, too, if more than fresh orange and grapefruit juice is required. BREAKFAST AND L UN C H T UE - S UN . 2 200 Gravois, 314-202-8244, breakfastcamefirst.com. $$

Eleven Eleven Mississippi This welcoming place caters to locals with a bent for inventive dishes such as wild boar ravioli and braised rabbit. The atmosphere is charming, and the location is among the most historic in the city. Lu n ch Ital i a n .

Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat.

1111 Mississippi, 314-2419999, 1111-m.com. $$$

Epic Pizza and subs p i z za . Epic makes woodfired pies in the heart of Soulard. Order an Epic Supreme, then take it next door to International Tap House and pair it with some suds.

Lunch and dinner daily.

1711 S. 9th, 314-436-3742, epicpizzaandsubs.com. $

Ernesto’s Wine Bar w i n e bar . On Wednesday, wines are half price.

Flatbreads and steak and frites–type classics are served alongside seasonal specials. The drink menu in-

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SBL cludes New and Old World wines, as well as cocktails.

D i n n e r T u e – S at. 2730 McNair, 314-664-4511, ernestoswinebar.com. $$

Frazer’s Restaurant & Lounge Already popular for its innovative food, Frazer’s should be better known for its outstanding cocktails. The mood’s decidedly cool, with a lounge feel, and the menu changes constantly, with an emphasis on international flavors and superior ingredients.

It’s a place in which to savor both food and drink. dinner Mon–Sat, brunch Sat. 1811 Pestalozzi, 314-773-8646, frazersgoodeats.com. $$$ American.

llywelyn’s pub See “Multiple Locations.”

mcgurk’s irish pub See “Multiple Locations.”

Melo’s Pizzeria P i z z a . Located behind neighborhood staple Blues City Deli, this converted garage offers a small menu and a big hot oven that turns out legit Neapolitan pizza. Customers either eat at the counter or order to go. L UN C H M O N – S AT, D INNE R T H U – F R I . 2438 McNair Rear, 314-833-4489, melospizzeria.com. $$

mission taco joint See “Multiple Locations.”

Molly’s in Soulard There’s an attractive, bustling patio scene, and the music is rocking on weekends.

Weeknights are quieter.

Sunday brunch is delicious; consider the shockingly decadent bread pudding French toast and “Bloody Molly.” And for dinner? Try a great gumbo with braised chicken and house-made cornbread. lunch and dinC a j u n / cr e ol e .

ner tue-sat, brunch sun,

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cha n g e s s e aso n ally.

Lunch and dinner daily.

816 Geyer, 314-241-6200, mollysinsoulard.com. $$$

2017 Chouteau, 314-2417799, pwpizza.com. $$

The Peacemaker Lobster & Crab Company

Sidney Street Café

S e afood. A

lobster shack fell in love with a crab house and produced this rustic local favorite. Crab boils, lobster, mussels, clams— it’s a taste of the coast transplanted into a historic Midwest space. l u n ch mo n – fr i , d i n n e r da i ly.

1831 Sidney, 314-772-8858, peacemakerstl.com. $$

A m e r i ca n . Legions of local fans consistently rate this Benton Park mainstay among St. Louis’ finest.

Flavors of the South, Southwest, and France mingle in a constantly changing menu. Aged wood, brick, and crisp linen make the ambience; it’s relaxed, yet this is a place for serious food. D i n n e r T u e – S at.

2000 Sidney, 314-771-5777, sidneystreetcafe.com. $$$$

Pizzeoli P i z z a . The house-made dough takes three days to prepare before being topped with mouthwatering ingredients like arugula, yellow trumpet mushrooms, cashew ricotta, and Fontina.

It’s then baked in a 900-degree wood-fired oven. The sauce is certifiably Neapolitan, made only with crushed tomatoes and salt. No meat is served, but the vegan sausage is a savory treat that even non-vegetarians will love. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r Tue–Sat. 1928 S. 12th, 314449-1111, pizzeoli.com. $$

Planter’s House American. Cocktail House is more like it. The drink menu is stunningly extravagant. But don’t overlook the food, from nibbles to full meals. The interior’s magnificent, a step back in St. Louis history. D i n n e r T u e – S u n . 1000 Mississippi, 314-696-2603, planters housestl.com. $$

Soulard Coffee Garden Café Caf é . A boho-chic breakfast destination, this spot serves up pancakes, omelets, and innovative takes on eggs Benedict. On fine days, enjoy sandwiches and salads on a leafy brickfloored patio. B r e a k fast a n d l u n ch da i ly. 910 Geyer, 314-241-1464, soulardcoffeegarden.com. $

Square One Brewery and Distillery bar & g r i ll . Square One delivers on many fronts.

Flights of spirits distilled inhouse and craft beers brewed on-site gladden the heart.

The arched-window back bar and winsome, dog-friendly brick patio (one of the most charming in the city) delight the eye. For pub staples like pot roast sandwiches and fish and (homemade) chips, the first distillery brewpub in Missouri is a solid choice.

L u n ch M o n – S at , d i n n e r da i ly, bru n ch s u n .

PW Pizza The histor y of St. Louis breweries is on giant labels on the walls. Many of the ingredients are local, and you can supervise your own pizza construction. Calzones, hot sandwiches, and salads won’t disappoint. And the beer selection is myriad.

Pizza.

Dining Guide 2016

1727 Park, 314-231-2537, squareonebrewery.com. $$

Sqwires American. Housed in a converted wire factory, there’s a fireplace, live music, a menu bouncing from baconwrapped dates to chicken pot pie, and the world’s most

extensive Bloody Mary bar during a deluxe brunch. On Thursdays in the summer, try barbecue on the patio. In winter, enjoy fried chicken inside. Lunch Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–Sat, brunch Sat

1415 S. 18th, 314-8653522, sqwires.com. $$$ & Sun.

tucker’s place See “Multiple Locations.”

Venice Café Caribbean. Funky décor, lively bands, and a cash-only bar make this St. Louis institution the perfect place to take wide-eyed out-oftowners. Caribbean food at The Jerk Shack is a lagniappe. And don’t miss the awesomeness that is Monday’s open-mic night.

D i n n e r M o n – S at. 1903 Pestalozzi, 314-772-5994, thevenicecafe.com. $

Vin de Set F r e n ch . Think of it as an American bistro. Consistently good, Vin de Set offers numerous reasons for you to make it a regular destination. The Sunday brunch is opulent. Rooftop seats offer unparalleled vistas. There’s a classy bar with a tempting wine list, impeccable service, and a main dining room that’s often overlooked. L u n ch Tue–Fri, dinner Tue– S u n , br u n ch S u n . 2017 Chouteau, 314-241-8989, vindeset.com. $$$

Yemanja Brasil sou th american. After a couple of caipirinhas, you won’t care about the food.

Even so, it’s delightful and authentic. Traditional feijoada is meaty, starchy, gloriously indulgent. Other offerings, such as shrimp empanadas, offer a taste of Brazil. The ambience is low-key Carnival. In warm weather, the patio is magic.

D i n n e r T h u – S u n . 2900 Missouri, 314-771-7457, brazildining.com. $$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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scc Aya Sofia

DA I LY, B RUN C H S UN.

Drop by for eggplant moussaka, kebabs, or other Turkish delights flavored with exotic and tantalizing spices. Settle into one of the cozy curtained booths with pillows. Lu n ch

Byrd & barrel

E u rop e a n .

Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–

6671 Chippewa, 314-645-9919, ayasofiacuisine.com. $$$ S u n , br u n ch s u n .

Banh Mi So #1 Saigon Gourmet V i e t n am e s e . Regulars frequent this Vietnamese mainstay for arguably the “best spring rolls in St. Louis.” They stay for bowls of herb-scented pho and the namesake banh mi, cradled in crisp baguettes. L u n ch and dinner Tue–Sun.

Russell’s on Macklind

South City & COUNTY SCC 1904 Steakhouse You stood on 19—and hit it big—so it’s time to celebrate. And hey, there’s a steakhouse, just off the casino floor. It’s what you’d expect from a high-end place: aged meats, luxuriant sauces, extravagant desserts, crisp service…a dining destination conveniently located near the casino’s concerts. DINNER WED –SUN. 777 River City Casino, 314-388-7777, rivercity. com/dining/1904-steak-house. $$$$ S t e a k ho u s e .

Adam’s Smokehouse Barbecue. A descendant of the legendary Pappy’s S m o k e h o u s e , A d a m’s features a house-made smoked salami sandwich (a nod to the place’s proximity to The Hill) and ribs rubbed with undisclosed

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ingredients and slathered in a sweet apple butter. A single salad is found on the menu, but it’s topped with your choice of meat (of course). Lu n ch T u e – S u n , e arly d i n n e r W e d – Sat,

2819 Watson, 314-875-9890, adamssmokehouse.com. $$

4071 S. Grand, 314-353-0545, banhmiso1.com. $

bartolino’s osteria See “Multiple Locations.”

Biggies Restaurant and Bar Bar & Grill. Though you’ll want to plop right down on a stool upon entering through the bar—welcoming, low-lit, and spotted with AnheuserBusch memorabilia—moving a bit farther, into the casual dining areas, will make you feel even more at home, as will the St. Louis–style items on the vast menu, the friendly service, and the South Side clientele. Lunch

Atomic Cowboy

and dinner Tue–Sun.

This eclectic landing spot for the post– 1 a.m. crowd offers a deep roster of classic cocktails and eats that straddle the border between traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex. Looking to turn in early?

When the weather cooperates, Atomic Cowboy also offers up one of The Grove’s finest perches for outdoor dining. Lunch and dinner da i ly, bru n ch s u n. 4140 Manchester, 314-775-0775, atomiccowboystl.com. $$

3332 Watson, 314-781-0060, biggiesrestaurant.com. $$

M e x i ca n .

Dining Guide 2016

Brasilia Bar & Restaurant South American. Brasilia is South Grand’s answer to Brazilian cuisine. The menu is teeming with favorites such as beef acebolado (pan-fried steak with onions) and paella.

Beverage-wise, the caipirinha is the bellwether, but for a real indigenous experience, try the española, a blend of red wine and condensed milk. DINNER

3212 S. Grand, 314-932-1034, brasiliastl.com. $$

so u th e r n. The chicken’s crispy, hot, and tasty. The place is downright fun, with an urban beer garden and a drive-thru, as well as in-house seating. The quirky menu includes Kool-Aid pickles—a hot dog stuffed into a pickle, then battered and fried like a corndog—and a South Side take on poutine. L u n ch , dinner , and late night

3422 S. Jefferson, 314875-9998. $$ daily.

Cafe Natasha’s mediterranean. For more than 30 years, Cafe Natasha’s has remained the South City mecca for beef kebabs.

What’s in store for the uninitiated? Generous portions of sirloin that have been lovingly marinated in oil, onion, and spice. They’re skewered and charbroiled to crispy and ohso-tender perfection. Lunch a n d d i n n e r th u – t u e .

3200 S. Grand, 314-771-3411, cafenatasha.com. $$

Cibare Italian Kitchen Italian. Blackjack, Barolo, and Bolognese are finally under one roof at River City Casino’s newest restaurant, which cooks up fresh breads and pastas, as well as Italianthemed cocktails. Cibare’s retail bakery and coffee shop also serves Lavazza, “Italy’s favorite coffee.” LUNCH AND D INNE R D A I LY. 777 River City Casino, 314-388-7777, rivercity.com. $$

City Diner diner. The expansive menu includes diner staples for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The meatloaf is so popular, you can have it for breakfast (omelet), lunch (sandwich), or dinner (plate). Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.

3139 S. Grand, 314-722-6100, citydinerstl.com. $ Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

scc The Copper Pig The eclectic menu reflects the worldly travels and imaginative tastes of owner Nhat Nguyen and his staff. Nguyen encourages his crew to contribute to the menu, mixology, art, and atmosphere. Tip: The space is available for weddings, parties, and meetings. L UN C H A N D D INNE R A m e r i ca n .

M O N – S AT, B R UN C H S UN .

4611 Macklind, 314-4997166, thecopperpig.com. $$

The Dam Serving “slow food fast,” The Dam is ideal if you’re starving or if you just want a small batch of fries, served fresh from the oil with a choice of 10-plus sauces. Highlights include the tempura of the day, fish and chips, and The Louie—a deep-fried, bacon-wrapped hot dog. The Dam is located next door to the Amsterdam Tavern—a beneficial arrangement for both parties, giving thirsty folks sustenance and hungry folks hydration. Lunch and dinA m e r i ca n.

n e r da i ly, br u n ch s u n .

3173 Morgan Ford, 314-7713173, thedamstl.com. $

Edibles & Essentials Tucked into a small storefront, this humble South City eatery offers more than meets the eye.

Part artisanal grocery store, part café, E&E boasts a solid menu full of creative fare, such as the fried ribs, which combine the best elements of two current local obsessions: fried chicken and barbecue. LUNCH AND DINNER M O N – SAT. 5815 Hampton, 314-328-2300, ediblesand essentials.com. $ Deli.

Elaia Mediterranean. Tucked into an immaculately renovated house in blossoming Botanical Heights, Ben Poremba’s Elaia offers one of the city’s most complete din-

ing experiences. The dishes, always beautifully plated, change nightly and are paired with a deep and esoteric wine cellar. Expect an exciting yet leisurely dining experience.

D i n n e r W e d – S at. 1634 Tower Grove, 314-932-1088, elaiastl.com. $$$$

Everest Café & Bar You won’t need that bottle of sriracha on the table; each dish here provides the appropriate spice and distinctive flavors from Nepal, India, and Korea. The lunch buffet is popular and convenient, with an entire room home to a display of hot trays of specialties (well-labeled with dietary specifications). Egg, chicken, and vegetables are featured in an array of colorful, aromatic sauces. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sun, 4145 Manchester, 314-531-4800, everestcafeandbar.com. $$ asian.

Farmhaus A m e r i ca n . Chef Kevin Willmann’s hot spot is small, casual, and chef-owned, serving outstanding locally sourced food. The restaurant is sophisticated but with an approachable appeal in plate presentation, service, and ambience. Special attention is paid to fresh seafood, and the menu changes daily to showcase what’s fresh and seasonal. dinner T u e – S at. 3257 Ivanhoe, 314-647-3800, farmhaus restaurant.com. $$$

Fritanga n i caragua n. Serving up Nicaraguan and Latin cuisine, Fritanga allows you to order plantains three different ways to accompany your entrée— also topped with plantains.

We recommend the Rumtarindo, a rum-based cocktail that goes down smoothly with the help of the savory meat, bean, and rice dishes.

Service is attentive and on the verge of formal. Lunch and

2208 S. Jefferson, 314-664-7777, fritangastl.net. $$ d i n n e r T u e – S u n.

The Garden on Grand American. Sit at one of the most appealing bars in town and enjoy culinary adventures boasting thoughtful combinations of cultural flavors, colors, and textures. Old movies are shown on the patio, which features fire pits, hot drinks, and s’mores during chilly evenings. BREAKFAST, LUN C H , A N D D INNE R T UE –

2245 S. Grand, 314-898-3788, thegardenongrand.com. $$ S AT, B R UN C H S UN .

Grapeseed American. Chefs Ben Anderson and Jon Olson reunite in Southampton to offer an oft-changing seasonal menu of “smalls” and “mains” that facilitates both traditional appetizer-entrée-dessert meals and table-shared collections of dishes. Local grass-fed beef and heritage pork are typical of close-by sourcing, but the chefs aren’t dogmatic, which allows such items as a top-notch shrimp and grits to show up as well. D i n n e r T u e – S u n .

5400 Nottingham, 314-9258525, grapeseedstl.com. $$$

Grbic eu rop e a n. Friendly service and hearty food charm customers at this familyowned restaurant. Don’t miss cevapi, juicy beef sausages, and tarhana soup.

It’s a good place for a quiet conversation, even when there’s a wedding or community gathering being catered next door. Lu n ch

and Grand. The place exudes energy, fueled by the tastiest street food this side of Manila. Everything is reasonably priced and expertly cooked. L u n ch a n d d i n ner Mon–Sat. 3559 Arsenal, 314-529-1328, guerrillastreet food.com. $

Hartford Coffee Company Café. This corner spot offers organic and fair-trade coffee.

Freshly baked pastries will appeal to fans of both sweet and savory breakfasts, but the real draw is a dedicated play area that’ll keep the kiddos occupied while you enjoy a well-deserved coffee break. br e a k fast, l u n ch , a n d

3974 Hartford, 314-771-5282, hartford communitycafe.com. $ dinner daily.

Helen Fitzgerald’s Bar & Gr i ll . It’s a Syberg family restaurant, so you know the signature wings are mandatory. At night, Helen’s turns into a party with live bands, DJs, drink specials, and ladies’ nights. L u n ch and dinner daily. 3650 S. Lindbergh, 314-984-0026, helenfitzgeralds.com. $$

Hodak’s Restaurant so u th e r n . Winner, winner: Hodak’s is required eating for anyone who enjoys a fried chicken dinner. Popular long before there was a fried chicken trend, Hodak’s specializes in crowd-pleasing birds wrapped in a distinctive savory cornbread-and-flour coating. Lunch and dinner da i ly. 2100 Gravois, 314776-7292, hodaks.com. $$

Sat–Sun, dinner Tue–Sun.

Iron Barley

4071 Keokuk, 314-772-3100, grbicrestaurant.com. $$

American. Unusual yet delicious takes on traditional favorites are prepared from scratch in an arsenal of seasoned cast-iron pans. Pair the dishes with a cadre of local microbrews in the informal setting. First-time visitors tend to come away wishing that this

guerrilla street food as i a n . Guerrilla Street Food maintains its street swagger and serves startlingly good food in its crisply delineated space at Arsenal

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scc delicious neighborhood joint were in their own neighborhoods. Lunch and dinner wed –Sat. 5510 Virginia, 314351-4500, ironbarley.com. $$

j mcarthur’s am e r i ca n . At this handsome restaurant, every course is delightfully prepared with seasonal ingredients. The menu—with items like pea shoots and wild greens, diver scallops and Amish chicken, and blueberry marmalade– slathered beignets—is constantly changing. And the wine selection’s impressive.

(Note: A great late-night menu includes snacks like street tacos and flatbreads.) Dinner Tue–Sat. 3500 Watson, 314353-9463, jmcarthurs.com. $$

jj twig’s pizza & pub See “Multiple Locations.”

joe boccardi’s ristorante

joey b’s See “Multiple Locations.”

Kalbi Taco Shack A s i a n . The writing is on the wall here—literally— with a graffiti tag–style logo dominating the interior. The menu includes the namesake Korean grilled beef ribs and other Asian-accented proteins presented as tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, rice bowls, or banh mi.

L UN C H W E D – S UN . 2301 Cherokee, 314-240-5544, kalbitcoshack.com. $

Kounter Kulture Asian. Known for its unusual dishes, this carryout restaurant earns extra points for its farm-to-table philosophy and use of grass-fed meats and organic vegetables. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, as well as substitutions, are no problem here. DINNER MON–FRI. 3825 Watson, 314781-4344, kounterkulturestl. com. $$

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Simone Faure’s Parisian-themed pastry shop specializes in authentic French croissants, macarons, tartes, éclairs, and unique special-occasion cakes. B R E A K F A S T AND LUNCH TUE–SAT. 1626 Tower Grove, 314-932-7935. $ B a k e ry.

La vallesana m e x i ca n . What was once little more than a walk-up taco stand is now a full-fledged cantina. Seventy seats inside, plus two patios (one covered) makes this the most lively spot on Cherokee Street for al pastor tacos, tortas, homemade ice cream and paletas, plus horchatas, Mexican coke, and Corona by the bucket. lunch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 2801 Cherokee, 314-776-4223. $

Layla

See “Multiple Locations.”

14

La Pâtisserie Chouquette

bar & g r i ll . Surprising dishes include smoky mango wings and gooey butter baklava. The extensive burger menu includes beef, lamb, turkey, bison, and veggie. Layla’s adjacent lot makes parking a breeze. Lunch and dinner

and toothsome sweets are so delicious, they may elicit this Dickensian request: “Please, sir, I want some more.” T e a a n d l u n ch da i ly, 3128 Morgan Ford, 314-241-6556, thelondontearoom.com. $

LoRusso’s Cucina Ital i a n. With Italian standards and new ideas on that theme, LoRusso’s is one of the most vegetarian-friendly restaurants in town. There are gluten-free options as well. A pleasant wine list, warm hospitality, and occasional music in the bar make for festive dining. D i n n e r T u e – S u n .

3121 Watson, 314-647-6222, lorussos.com. $$$

At Lulu’s, virtue (healthful foods) is its own tasty reward each time you visit. Experience interesting vegan fare made from scratch daily from locally sourced ingredients. Don’t miss the spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites, the Sweet Potato Black Bean Burger, or the BBQ Jack—a jackfruit sandwich so good, you won’t notice that the meat’s missing. lunch and V e g e tar i a n .

dinner mon–sat, changes

4317 Manchester, 314-5539252, laylastl.com. $$

Lona’s LiL Eats

Mangia Italiano

Pining for Xishuangbanna eats? Lona serves her own version, Thai-Chinese food wrapped in giant rice wrappers. And don’t forget the superb dumplings. This place is tiny and inevitably busy. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r Tue–Sat. 2199 California, 314925-8938, lonaslileats.com. $

Italian. What began in 1983 as a deli and small shop offering fresh pasta has become a neighborhood go-to, offering a menu of inexpensive Italian dishes, including polenta fries, sandwiches, and house-made pastas. Choose a spot on the formal whitetableclothed side or on the casual side, marked by Formica tables, mismatched chairs, and the always-in-progress murals by local artist Wayne St. Wayne. Live music nightly.

Late-night menu available.

asian.

London Tea Room caf é . Banish thoughts of ladies sipping from delicate teacups. Think substantial Cornish pasties, sausage rolls, tomato soup, and tender quiches in a space that was once a saloon owned by Hyde Park Brewery. The great teas

Dining Guide 2016

Eth i op i a n. Chicken, lamb, and beef—served in ways you never imagined—are all on the menu at this standout in St. Louis’ Little Ethiopia. The décor captures sunny northern Africa. The food—piquantly spiced, eaten with spongy bread—is exotic and appealing.

Lunch and dinner daily.

3210 S. Grand, 314-772-4442, meskeremstl.com. $$

Milque Toast Bar Lulu’s Local Eatery

3201 S. Grand, 314-300-8215, luluslocal eatery.com. $

da i ly, br u n ch Sat– S u n .

Meskerem

seasonally.

D i n n e r da i ly , l u n ch

3145 S. Grand, 314-664-8585, dineat mangia.net. $$ Sat, bru n ch S u n.

American. The 15-seat café features inventive toasts, melts, bread puddings, daily soups, weekend specials, and flavored nut milks.

For the holidays, order the sauces, jams, preserves, pickles, salsas, and takeand-bake stuffing. LUN C H AND DINNER THU–TUE. 2312 S. Jefferson, 314-833-0085, milquetoastbar.org. $

The Mud House C af é . It’s the only coffeehouse in town with full-time chefs—and the occasional guest chef transitioning between gigs. They crank out dishes that play several levels above the cup of Joe–and–go usual. In other words, you can find good eats at an attractive price here pretty much any time of the day. Breakfast a n d l u n ch da i ly. 2101 Cherokee, 314-776-6599, themudhousestl.com. $

O’Connell’s Pub B ar & Gr i ll . A longtime St. Louis tradition, O’Connell’s is known for affordable pints, cozy seating, and burgers that are seared to the pinnacle of crusty, caramelized perfection. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r daily. 4652 Shaw, 314-7736600, saucemagazine.com/ oconnells. $

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

scc Olio

Pizzeria Tivoli

mediterranean. Diminu-

The blistered and blissfully Provel-free pies pulled from a hand-built wood-burning oven at this South City treasure continue to fly below the radar, leaving us to wonder, “How long can a hidden gem stay hidden?”

D i n n e r T u e – S u n . 5861 S. Kingshighway, 314-832-3222, pizzeriativoli.fliptstl.com. $$

tive in size but large in aspirations, the sister wine bar to Elaia is ideal for light snacking, full meals, great drinks, or any combination thereof.

Creative cocktails and a broad beer and wine list pair with shareable small plates.

Lunch and dinner daily,

1634 Tower Grove, 314-932-1088, oliostl. com. $$ br u n ch S u n .

Onesto Pizza. The pizza is the draw, along with the garlic knots.

There’s a focus on the seasonal and local, including craft beer and vegetables grown onsite. Stromboli, sandwiches, and pasta are served in an informal but elegant atmosphere. Mondays are popular for discounted sangrias. Dinn e r da i ly. 5401 Finkman, 314-802-8883, onestopizza. com. $$

Pho Grand Vietnamese . Pho Grand’s where we first came to love the bun thit nuong cha gio, thin noodles topped with marinated and grilled pork, slivers of lemongrass, and egg rolls that have been broken into chopstick-friendly sections. The atmosphere’s casual and comfortable, and the accessible eats are offered at attractive prices.

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r W e d –

3195 S. Grand, 314664-7435, phogrand.com. $

Mon.

piccadilly at manhattan High five–worthy fried chicken is served with sides like Grandma used to make. Piccadilly’s fried chicken sports a crisp, salty crust that begs for a generous slathering of hot sauce and honey. Extra napkins are a must, as are the complimentary wet naps. d i n n e r T u e – sat. 7201 Piccadilly, 314-646-0016, thepiccadilly.com. $$ american.

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Pizza.

pueblo solis mexican. A delicious merger of traditional Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex favorites is a mainstay here. Locals can be seen sipping potent margaritas and sharing from plates of tamales filled with simmered black beans, pork, cheese, and jalapeño. D i n n e r da i ly. 5127 Hampton, 314-3519000, pueblosolisstl.com. $$

miss the colorful mural of an Italian seaside in the back dining room. Lu n ch t u e – fr i , dinner tue–Sat. 145 Concord Plaza, 314-842-9998, robertosstl.com. $$$

Sanctuaria rooster See “Multiple Locations.”

RUSSELL’S CAFÉ & BAKERY CAFÉ . Whether the call is for breakfast, lunch, or baked goods, chef Russell Ping delivers, sourcing produce and proteins locally and roasting lunchmeats in house. Expect soups, salads, sandwiches, cookies, and cakes like Grandma used to make (or maybe better). If Fenton is out of your way, try the recently expanded Russell’s on Macklind and check out chef Ping’s dinner specials. B R E A K FA S T A N D

the Purple Martin

LUN C H , M O N – SAT, D INNE R

american. Pair a weeekend specialty dish with one of a wide selection of local beers.

Despite several chef and menu changes, The Purple Martin has quickly become a gathering place in Fox Park.

The restaurant’s easy to find; just look for the purple glow.

M O N – F R I . 952 Brookwood Center, 636-343-8900, russellscafe.com. $

Dinner daily, early dinner fri & sat, lunch and

2800 Shenandoah, 314-898-0011, thepurplemartinstl.com. $$ br e a k fast s u n .

Quincy Street Bistro A m e r i ca n. This everyday corner pub and dining destination serves from-scratch comfort-food classics such as Southern fried chicken and a gravy-covered meatloaf that rivals Mom’s. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 6931 Gravois, 314-353-1588, quincystreetbistro.com. $$

RUSSELL’S ON MACKLIND C A F É . Like its sister location in Fenton, this South City spot emphasizes locally sourced products. Dinner is a particular focal point. Enjoy candlelit dinners on the lovely, tree-covered patio at night. Or if weather’s an issue, choose between the two dining rooms.

And don’t forget the sweets: Owner Russell Ping’s gooey butter cake (made with a shortbread crust) is legendary, and the signature chocolate-and-whipped cream layer cake is nearly a foot tall.

B R E A K FA S T A N D L UN C H , TUE–SUN, DINNER TUE–SAT.

5400 Murdoch, 314-5539994, russellscafe.com. $$$

Sameem Roberto’s Trattoria Chef Roberto Zanti brings the tastes of southern Italy to St. Louis. With seafood that’s delivered fresh daily, pastas, and gelato, Roberto’s keeps customers coming back. Don’t Ital i a n .

The exquisite flavors will bring you back for more. L u n ch and dinner Tue–Sun. 4341 Manchester, 314-534-9500, sameems.com. $$

afghan. This small restaurant in The Grove serves up big taste and affordably priced Afghan and Persian food. The dish names roll off the tongue: sambosas; lamb, shrimp, or chicken beriani; beef koobeda; chicken masala; and more.

Small Plates. Drink in the unusual religious artwork. Peruse an unreal menu of cocktails and an uncommon “wild tapas” menu. And consider reserving the garden patio and its refurbished French conservatory. D i n n e r T u e – S u n .

4198 Manchester, 314-5359700, sanctuariastl.com. $$

sasha’s on shaw See “Multiple Locations.”

sauce on the side See “Multiple Locations.”

The Shaved Duck B arb e c u e . Fans line up early for the eats at this cozy 40-seater, where you’ll find live guitar music every night. The St. Louis–style ribs are worthy of attention, but we’re partial to a serving of smoked chicken, frites prepared in duck fat, and the homemade sides. Dinner and dinner mon–Sat.

2900 Virginia, 314-776-1407, theshavedduck.com. $$

Sheesh E u rop e a n . For nights when you crave outstanding Turkish food, Sheesh offers a completely casbah setting, copper dishes, and loungetype seating. The fare is authentic, too, from the stuffed grape leaf appetizers to aromatic kebabs to Turkish apple tea. Lively and fun, it’s great for couples or small groups.

LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY.

3226 S. Grand, 314-833-4321, sheeshrestaurant.com. $$

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scc Sister Cities Cajun & BBQ Louisiana native Travis Parfait and restaurant veteran Pamela Melton link the Gateway City and Crescent City with a combination of barbecue and New Orleans comfort food. The Cajun smoked wings are among the best in town. S e e w e bs i t e for hours. 3550 S. Broadway, 314-448-6013, sister citiescajun.com. $$ barbecue.

Southwest Diner Diner . Simple, solid Southwestern fare is executed with precision and flair in a classic diner setting. Favorites include a New Mexico– style breakfast burrito and Jonathan’s Famous Fiery Scramble. B r e a k fast a n d l u n ch da i ly. 6803 Southwest, 314-260-7244, southwestdinerstl.com. $

Spare No Rib B arb e c u e . The barbecue joint delivers top-drawer ribs, pulled pork, burgers with pit beans, and fries hand-cut the same day by a human. Throw in tacos and cachete (braised beef cheeks), and somehow it all works. lu n ch a n d d i n n e r mo n – sat. 3701 Jefferson, 314-354-8444, spare norib.com. $$

spiro’s See “Multiple Locations.”

Stacked Burger Bar

veggie burger options, the SweetBurger remains our first love. B r e a k fast,

Trattoria Marcella

771-4278, sweetartstl.com. $

Ital i a n . Owned by the brothers Komorek (Steve and Jamie), Trattoria Marcella is a classic, ever-popular place. The lobster risotto special is a headliner, but almost anything on the menu swings. D i n n e r T u e – Sat. 3600 Watson, 314-352-7706, trattoriamarcella.com. $$

Sweet Times at the Mangrove Southern. With a streamlined cafeteria line and 60 more seats, the former Sweetie Pie’s (under new ownership) is serving even more customers the familiar menu of fried chicken and catfish, jumbo wings, and mac and cheese. lunch and d i n n e r da i ly. 4270 Manchester, 314-371-0304. $$

Taco Circus Mexican. This colorful fastcasual restaurant features Austin-style street eats that are big on taste but light on the pocketbook. Top-quality ingredients include locally raised grass-fed beef, Berkshire pork, and farm eggs for tacos and fajitas. lu n ch

L u n ch T u e – F r i , d i n n e r M o n – Sat. 11686 Gravois, 314-849-1499, trattoria toscanastl.com. $$$

Tree House Vegetarian. With its lively patio, well-designed dining room, and a quirky thirdfloor bar, the space charms.

The vegan and vegetarian fare—with such inspired dishes as paella, “chorizo” tamales, and sliders—even satisfies a carnivore’s soul.

Three Monkeys bar & g r i ll . This Morgan

Ford staple serves fine pub grub: shareable appetizers, sandwiches, entrées, and pizzas—something for everyone. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly, br u n ch s u n . 3153 Morgan Ford, 314-772-9800, 3 m o n k e y s s t l .c o m . $ $

Three Flags Tavern

See “Multiple Locations.”

american. The classic vibe, professional service, and delicious food make Three Flags seem as if it’s been around for decades. From the lobster roll to the lamb burger, the fare is always top-notch. D i n n e r

Dining Guide 2016

The Vine M e d i t e rra n e a n . Pita is baked in this Lebanese restaurant’s attached bakery. Middle Eastern fare, from shawarma to kebabs, are authentic and generously portioned. The tabouli salad is famous. Oh, and two words: chocolate baklava. Lunch and dinner da i ly. 3171 S. Grand, 314776-0991, thevinestl.com. $$

VISTA Ramen Japanese . Chef Chris Bork serves up creative, steaming bowls of soup on Cherokee Soup. Small plates and cocktails are equally compelling. DINNER MON–SAT. 2609 Cherokee, 314-797-8250, vistaramen.com. $$

Yaquis On Cherokee

3177 S. Grand, 314-6962100, treehousestl.com. $$

pizza . Sit near the window to enjoy a wood-fired pizza and people-watch along Cherokee Street. Or cozy up to the bar; discuss world affairs; listen to live music; and savor the wine, pizza, and warmth of the oven. Dinner daily, lunch S at, br u n ch S u n . 2728 Cherokee, 314-400-7712, yaquispizza.com. $$

tucker’s place

Yolklore

See “Multiple Locations.”

A m e r i ca n . This locally owned and sourced little spot in Crestwood goes way beyond the expected breakfast chow, with falafel, sous-vide eggs, and house-made sausage. If breakfast for lunch isn’t your thing, there are also a couple of sandwiches and a salad.

Don’t miss the Chocolate Cake for Breakfast. B R E A K-

L at e br e a k fast a n d l u n ch t u e - fr i , d i n n e r t u e – s u n , br u n ch sat & sun.

Twisted Tree Steakhouse

sugarfire smoke house

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Italian. The chef knows his way around a Bolognese sauce, chicken and white wine, and a veal Milanese. The ambience is informal, but with an emphasis on serious cuisine.

Our go-to dishes are either version of the calamari and the seafood-laden tuttomare.

4258 Schiller, 314-808-2850, tacocircus.com. $

7637 Ivory, 314-544-4900, stackedstl.com. $

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Trattoria toscana

a n d d i n n e r w e d - mo n .

Lunch and dinner daily.

This husband-andwife–owned hideaway has visual treats and scratchbaked eats. Among local

B a k e ry. Using its fresh bread as a foundation, this bakery-café in Botanical Heights blends great food (sandwiches, salads, and soups) with a lively space.

LUNCH TUE–SUN. 1629 Tower Grove, 314-833-6111, union loafers.com. $

lu n ch , a n d lat e lu n ch

include bun selection, burger type, toppings, and extras.

Or choose a preset burger from the creative menu.

C af é .

Union Loafers

4940 Southwest, 314-6699222, threeflagstavern.com. $$

tue–Sat. 2203 S. 39th, 314-

am e r i ca n . Tableside lists

SweetArt

daily, brunch Sat & Sun,

Steakhouse. This relatively new steakhouse in Sunset Hills serves old-school fare— family-style salads, long-aged steaks, and batter-fried lobster tails—at its finest. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE-SAT. 10701 Watson , 314-394-3366, twistedtreesteakhouse.com. $$$$

FA S T A N D L UN C H D A I LY.

8958 Watson, 314-270-8538, yolklore.com. $ Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

85% of patients have some form of gum disease.

Don’t be a statistic, make a dental visit today to evaluate your gum health.

Dining Guide 2016

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keep folks coming back.

Save room for Cathy Jenkins’ homemade Dutch apple pie. Motown’s on the airwaves, and you’re traveling with the Jenkins family.

Enjoy. lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 250 S. Florissant, 314-524-9200, cjenkins company.com. $

charlie gitto’s See “Multiple Locations.”

shrimp and polenta and bacon hash pair perfectly, no matter the selection.

D i n n e r T u e – S u n . 423 S. Florissant, 314-521-9463, corkferguson.com. $$

Crown Candy Kitchen A m e r i ca n . This St. Louis institution has been serving up house-made chocolate candy and ice cream since 1913. Master the Crown Candy Challenge by drinking five malted milkshakes in less than 30 minutes, and you’ll have your name added to a plaque bearing just 22 other winners. The Heart Stopping BLT features almost a pound of kettlecooked bacon. Lunch and d i n n e r M o n – S at. 1401 St. Louis, 314-621-9650, crowncandykitchen.net. $

Cugino’s Italian Bar and Grill Cugino’s Italian Bar and Grill

north city & COUNTY ncc Angelo’s Pizzeria P i z z a . If

you have a hankering for a thin-crust pizza with bubbly edges, toppings from side to side, and a cheese that’s not 100 percent Provel, then this longtime North County joint gets the call. Some say it’s the best pizza in town. Plus, it’s cooked in a square pan, so the pie perfectly fits in a square pizza box. What a concept! Lu n ch a n d d i n ner Tue–Sun . 4814 Parker, 314-355-3242. $$

Big Baby Q and Smokehouse Barbecue . The guy at the cash register is best known as a Chicago artist; his chef

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son does Memphis barbecue with (among others) Korean and coffee-based sauces. There’s also jerked tofu and such desserts as a dulce de leche–raisin bread pudding. Oh, and the restaurant’s only open on weekdays from 11 a.m. until that day’s barbecue runs out. LUNCH MON–FRI. 11658 Dorsett, 314-801-8888, bigbabyq.com. $$

Chef Ma’s Chinese Gourmet Restaurant C h i n e s e . Huai? (Bad?) You’ll eat off Styrofoam and struggle with a handwritten menu with the good stuff in untranslated Chinese. Hao? (Good?) The most startlingly authentic Chinese eatery in town. Incredible, delicious fare unequalled locally, like Hainan chicken and Hakkastyle fried rice. Lu n ch a n d dinner daily. 2336 Woodson, 314-395-8797. $$

A m e r i ca n . The food at this upbeat restaurant p i n g p o n g s a c ro s s t h e map. Insider favorites like Memphis-style gumbo, Texas chicken wings, and New Mexican fish tacos

Dining Guide 2016

drunken fish See “Multiple Locations.”

Companion café See “Multiple Locations.”

Ferguson Brewing Company

Cork Wine Bar

bar & grill . North County’s first brewpub offers beer-friendly foods, such as brats, soft pretzels, and a hearty beer-cheese soup.

Try the smoked chicken wings—a full pound. You’ll also find eight brews on tap, as well as seasonal selections. L u n ch a n d

Several wine options are offered at controlled temperatures for optimal tasting. A menu of small plates designed for sharing is organized as “hot,” “cold,” and “snacks.”

Sample fondue, veal shanks, or popcorn. The w i n e bar .

Cathy’s Kitchen

Italian. The partners are cousins (cugini), and the fare ranges from St. Louis-style pizza to classic Italian, plus a large selection of sandwiches and burgers. In addition to the 50-plus beers on tap, Narrow Gauge Brewing Company plans to set up operations inside the restaurant in mid-2016, with hopes of selling its four beers (including a Coconut Porter) exclusively onsite. Lunch and dinner da i ly. 1595 N. Highway 67, 314-831-3222, dinecuginos. com. $$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

NCC da i ly . 4 1 8 S .

Florissant, 314-521-2220, fergusonbrewing.com. $$ dinner

Frederick’s Steakhouse & Pizzeria S t e a k ho u s e . St. Louis once had dozens of such places, run by and oriented to families. The menu runs from burgers to steaks, St. Louis–style pizza to fried catfish, Dr Pepper to Cognac. Regulars make dinners seem like family reunions. The Noah’s Ark’s clam chowder and FamousBarr’s legendary French onion soup alone are worth the visit. L UN C H A N D D INNE R D A I LY. 12490 St. Charles Rock Road, 314-733-5500, fredericksstl.com. $$$

Goody Goody Diner Diner. Opened in 1948, this spanking-clean diner delivers with fried chicken and Belgian waffles and eggs cooked to order 12 ways.

Named one of “America’s Best Diners” by Travel + Leisure, Goody Goody sticks to its roots. Breakfast and lunch daily. 5900 Natural Bridge, 314-383-3333, goody goodydiner.com. $

floor view of planes at the airport. The menu offers some of the best Indian cuisine around. The lamb vindaloo and chicken tikka masala are outstanding. Lunch buffet and dinner daily.

4534 N. Lindbergh, 314-7313333, indiapalaceairport. com. $$

Kaslik Mediterranean Cuisine

Many dine at the Lindbergh location for the setting alone, with its topPhotography by Kevin A. Roberts

See “Multiple Locations.”

M e x i ca n . This 30-yearold mainstay delivers such memorable Mexican specialties as birria, a hearty goat stew. Try chilaquiles, a layered tortilla casserole, or the classic rojo posole. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r M o n – S at . 7401 N. Lindbergh, 314-831-6885. $$

Sun.

Indian.

Sweetie pie’s

7847N. Lindbergh, 314-9728282. $$

Mediterranean. This St. Ann spot is an exemplar of affordable Mediterranean fare. Huge bowls of hummus, crispy falafel, and superior pita-stuffed shawarma are served in a converted Taco Bell that fills to capacity on most evenings.

The hot rolls are seriously addicting. Lunch tue-sun, d i n n e r T u e – sat. 10111 St. Charles Rock, 314-429-6881, omarstann.com. $$

India Palace

314-621-8180, smokiosbbq. com. $$

Pueblo Nuevo

A m e r i ca n . This familyowned restaurant is housed in a historic brick building with a covered porch and ivy-draped brick courtyard.

Many come for the steak— USDA Choice beef, aged at least 21 days. The signature Louisiana-style crab cakes are served with a tobaccoonion remoulade. If you’re there for brunch, grab a mimosa for $2.25. Lunch and

599 St. Denis, 314-8372304, hendelsrestaurant. com. $$

dinner Tue & wed, dinner thu–Sat. 1545 N. Broadway,

lunch, and dinner daily.

Omar’s Italian & Mediterranean Cuisine

Pearl Café Thai. The traditional Thai menu is filled with chicken, beef, pork, and seafood dishes. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the King of Spice Challenge by sam-

2470 N. Highway 67, 314-921-2179. $$ Mon.

Barb e c u e . It’s a barbecue place run by a couple named Otis and Earline. What else do you need to know? Bizarre Foods host Andrew Zimmern dubbed the pork snoots “one of the 10 best BBQ dishes in the USA.” It’s takeout tiny, so plan on taking your bounty home. L u n ch a n d e arly

Thank owner-chef Wasem Hamed (of Layla and Ranoush) for bringing some of the best Mediterranean food in the area to North County.

The staff is also eager to help patrons feel right at home. One secret: Carefully sourced, authentic spices are part of the reason that Hamed’s flavors are so bold.

Don’t overlook the thin-cut pita, which leaves plenty of room for a square of baklava or harissa. B r e a k fast,

See “Multiple Locations.”

Thai. This little joint has the best Thai in North County and some of the tastiest Thai dishes in the region. The noodles are a favorite, but try the authentic, delicious pla sam rod, with three flavors of catfish.

Smoki O’s

M e d i t e rra n e a n.

lombardo’s restaurant

Simply Thai

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r W e d –

pirrone’s pizzeria See “Multiple Locations.”

Hendel’s Market Café & Wine Bar

dinner Tue–Sat, brunch

pling dishes of increasing hotness. There are also more than 200 beers and 125 single-malt Scotch selections. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r mo n – sat. 8416 N. Lindbergh, 314-831-3701, dinepearlcafe.com. $$

taqueria durango

See “Multiple Locations.”

m e x i ca n . As with many such hole-in-the-wall joints, here we have our favorites: a trio of tacos (choose from 14 tipos de carne); the torta ahogada,with chunks of juicy pork; and on the weekends, menudo, the sinus-clearing cure for the common cold— or hangover. L u n ch a n d dinner daily. 10238 Page, 314-429-1113. $

Ruiz’ Mexican Restaurant

Vincenzo’s Italian Restaurant

Mexican. At one of St. Louis’ oldest Mexican eateries, the fourth-generation owners serve tacos, burritos, and fajitas, along with Pueblo specialties. The main draw is the cemita de puerco, a hefty sandwich loaded with barbacoa pork, avocadoes, and cheese. Oh, and the margaritas are almost big enough to swim in. Lunch and dinner T u e – S u n . 901 N. Highway 67, Florissant, 314-838-3500, dineruiz.com. $$

Ital i a n . Warm and intimate, Vincenzo’s features a classic Italian menu, a full-service bar, great beers, and a manageable wine list.

Daily specials and “soups of the moment” provide a lively counterpoint to Italian standards. Seasonal patio dining and a private room for 60 guests are available.

the rib shack

L u n ch t u e – fr i , d i n n e r

242 S. Florissant, 314-524-7888, vincenzosstl. com. $$ t u e – s u n.

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on the patio. The veal, salads, and pastas—such as a mushroom-studded rigatoni—are notable, as are the antipasti and drinks. It’s a perfect place for peoplewatching. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sun, brunch sat

13 Maryland Plaza, 314-361-7010, baritaliastl. com. $$$ & s u n.

Bixby’s A m e r i ca n . The Missouri History Museum houses a restaurant with unparalleled views of Forest Park. The atmosphere’s tasteful and stylish, with lighter fare such as sandwiches and soups, as well as a luxurious Sunday Champagne brunch. Lunch

cwe Atlas Restaurant An absolute charmer, Atlas resembles a little East Village eatery. The menu’s Italian-inspired but marked by creative tweaks.

The scallops are excellent, the risotto is creamy, and the steak frites are marvelous. An extensive wine list and fine desserts add to the e u rop e a n .

fun. Dinner Tue–Sat. 5513 Pershing, 314-367-6800, atlarestaurantstl.com. $$$

The BBQ Saloon B arb e c u e . Owners Phil and Tracy Czarnec, who also run Wild Flower Restaurant across the street, take a nonconformist approach to barbecue. Here, you’ll find spare ribs instead of baby backs, spice pastes instead of rubs, and boutique meats (wild boar, ostrich, kangaroo burgers) in addition to the usual suspects. A back bar with 600 whiskeys sparks conversation and supplies liquid courage. Our favorites include the beef ribs and the coleslaw with blueberries.

Lunch and dinner daily.

4900 Laclede, 314-833-6666, bbqsaloonstl.com. $$

Bar Italia Italian. Come spring, enjoy a gentle breeze and Negroni

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Dining Guide 2016

Café Osage A m e r i ca n. A hidden gem, Café Osage is tucked into a lush urban nursery where many of the café’s ingredients are grown in season. Lunch options include the Brie LT. Breakfast on the sun-dappled patio is a perfect start to the day. Breakfast and lunch daily. 4605 Olive, 314-4546868, bowoodfarms.com. $$

Central Table

the block See “Multiple Locations.”

B r e a k fast a n d l u n ch

Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell, 314-361-7313, bixbys-mohistory.com. $$

Central West End

4580 Laclede, 314-454-0600, brasseriebyniche.com. $$$

American. This cavernous hall is populated with miniature eateries producing pizza, sandwiches, pastas…

It might sound weird, but it works. At lunch, the place is packed with professionals.

Things are more sedate during dinnertime, in a spot that’s bound to please all appetites.

M o n – S at, br u n ch S u n .

Scarlett’s Wine Bar

daily, brunch Sat & Sun.

Mon–Fri, dinner thu–Sat.

The Boathouse Beloved by locals, The Boathouse offers charming vistas of Post-Dispatch Lake. The classic meeting spot serves up sandwiches, pizzas, and a fine Sunday brunch. It’s often crowded, but you can paddleboat up an appetite before admiring a gorgeous sunset from the restaurant’s deck. L u n ch A m e r i ca n.

and dinner daily, brunch Sun, change s seasonal-

6101 Government, Forest Park, 314-367-2224, boat houseforestpark.com. $$ ly.

Brasserie by Niche F r e n ch . Chef G erard Craft’s third restaurant is simply the best brasserie in town. Don’t believe us? Try those mussels, served Normandy-style with cider and leeks. Or savor the braised beef, exquisite steak frites, a glorious croque-madame— and a local draft beer to boot. It’s served in a classic, convivial atmosphere that’s indubitably Parisian. Dinner

23 S. Euclid, 314-449-1600, centraltablestl.com. $$$

Dressel’s Public house B ar & Gr i ll . Few places capture the Welsh pub experience as well as Dressel’s. The dark wood–and–brick interior holds a lively crowd enjoying draft beers. Completing the effect is the food: rarebit, lamb burgers, fish and chips, soft pretzels. It’s hearty dining in a charmingly informal vintage-feel setting. Lu n ch M o n – Sat, d i n n e r da i ly,

419 N. Euclid, 314-361-1060, dresselspublic house.com. $$ brunch Sun.

DRunken Fish See “Multiple Locations.”

El Burro Loco Mexican. Hark back to the days when such places as ChiChi’s and the beloved Casa Gallardo introduced Mexican food to the mass market, with fajitas, chimichangas, and other then-exotic menu offerings.

Toss in the wackiest and most

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

S M A L L P L A T E S. H E A R T Y S U P P E R. L I B A T I O N S. R U S T I C FA R E

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DINNER

C R A F T CO C K TA I L S

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7 0 3 6 C L AY TO N AV E .

31 4 . 9 3 2 . 7 8 1 8

R AW BA R

S U N DAY B R U N C H

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BOUNDARY-STL.COM

cwe whimsical Mexican décor in town, as well as fishbowl-size margaritas, and you have El Burro Loco. Celebrating an adult’s birthday? Opt for the same free birthday dessert the kids get—or a complimentary shot. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 313 N. Euclid, 314-224-5371. $$

Evangeline’s Bistro Enjoy nightly live music and food, both of which lean toward Louisiana traditions.

Located at the northern end of the Euclid strip, it’s a particularly fine spot for a long, leisurely brunch, especially with New Orleans–style eyeopeners like brandy milk punch and a Ramos gin fizz. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly, br u n ch S u n . 512 N. Euclid, 314-367-3644, evangelinesstl.com. $$ ca j u n / cr e ol e .

to stick around long-term. It serves some of the best fried chicken in town, along with other down-home Southern eats conjured in a delightfully uptown style. The bread basket is mandatory, as are the exceptional craft cocktails. The scene’s folksy, friendly, and wildly popular.

D i n n e r M o n – S at. 360 N. Boyle, 314-329-7696, junipereats.com. $$

Kingside Diner A m e r i ca n . Looking for a restaurant with a great short stack? Check. How about a kale salad? Check.

Whatever your order, ask for a seat on the upstairs patio. The view from this chess-themed throwback is fit for king, queen, or bishop.

B r e a k fast ,

l u n ch ,

4651 Maryland, 314-454-3957, kingsidediner.com. $ a n d d i n n e r da i ly.

Gamlin Whiskey House Steakhouse . Whiskey for dinner? Genius! If you want something more than the myriad labels available at Gamlin Whiskey House, the restaurant can fix you up with prime rib, chicken and waffles, or shrimp and grits. The atmosphere’s rustic-chic, with a nice patio and cozy bar. Go early, or make reservations.

Lunch and dinner daily,

236 N. Euclid, 314-875-9500, gamlin whiskeyhouse.com. $$$ brunch Sat & Sun.

Little Saigon Café Vietnamese. This snug spot serves Saigon-flavored Vietnamese fare, including pho and other noodle dishes, soft spring rolls, and iced coffee. The outside seating is pleasant, and a wall-length window makes inside seating equally desirable for watching the neighborhood’s movable circus. L u n ch a n d d i n ner Mon–Sat. 10 N. Euclid, 314-361-8881, littlesaigoncafe. com. $$

llywelyn’s pub See “Multiple Locations.”

Mary Ann’s Tea Room Yes, the Central West End has a place to have high tea. But for that experience (which can include such items as petits-fours and caviar), you’ll need to make reservations two days in advance, and it’ll run you at least $30 per person. If that’s not in the cards, you can still have a lovely lunch in a formally set greenhouse space. Do wear something nice, dear. Lunch café .

Juniper S o u th e r n . Juniper feels like a pop-up restaurant that (fortunately) decided

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

4732 McPherson, 314-361-5303, maryannstearoom.com. $$ and high tea daily.

mission taco joint See “Multiple Locations.”

Panorama A m e r i ca n. Located inside the Saint Louis Art Museum, Panorama is elegant without pretense. A pleasant lunch and dinner menu emphasizes seasonally changing cuisine. There’s also a weekend brunch, with French toast and frittatas. Lunch T ue s–Fri, dinner Fri, brunch Sat–

1 Fine Arts, Forest Park, 314-655-5490, slam.org. $$ Sun.

pi pizzeria See “Multiple Locations.”

Pizzeria Mia P i z z a . One benefit of the huge Bosnian migration into St. Louis has been the opening of some excellent pizzerias. Here’s another, sharing an owner with Cafe Milano, a neighborhood coffee shop near Bevo Mill. With a bake time of roughly six minutes at 650 degrees, the pies here are not quite Neapolitan, not quite American. The domeshaped oven is faced with repurposed red brick. dinner T u e – S u n . 4501 Maryland, 314-400-7706. $$

The Preston American. Located in The Chase Park Plaza, the restaurant’s old-style cool and sophisticated, with a serious bar and a small-plates approach that works. Don’t miss the beautiful charred octopus and scallop chowder, as well as the melting chocolate sphere dessert. DINNER DAILY. 212 N. Kingshighway, 314-6337800, theprestonstl.com. $$$

Retreat Gastropub A m e r i ca n . The menu is described as “scratch-made American pub food with a modern twist,” one being that half the items are veg-

etarian (the veggie ragout with trout is flat-out delicious) while the other half are g’pub staples like poutine. Even the house salad (with butternut squash and pumpkin seeds) is superior. And if you think concrete bar tops are sooo turn of the century, wait until you see this one. Lunch and dinner Wed–Mon, brunch

2 N. Sarah, 314261-4497, retreatgastropub. com. $$ sat & sun.

Scape A m e r i ca n . Among the reasons to visit this jewel: candlelight, starched linens, a tucked-away courtyard patio, impeccable service, great drinks, and seasonal cuisine, including English pea risotto and wild-caught striped bass.

Before or after, visit Scapegoat next door for a namesake cocktail, like the Monica or the Buckner. Dinner T ue–Sat, br u n ch S u n . 48 Maryland Plaza, 314-361-7227, scapestl.com, scapegoatstl. com. $$$$

Scarlett’s Wine Bar W i n e B ar . This essential neighborhood eatery has oven-scorched pizzas, unpretentiously presented upscale fare, a handsome wine list, and plenty of cocktails. Two patio areas are equally comfortable and inviting. Insiders focus on the extensive appetizers and grand cheese board. LUN CH A N D D INNE R DA I LY. 4253 Laclede, 314-797-8223. $$

The Scottish Arms bar & g r i ll . The front room’s casual, with tall tables and a roomy bar. In back, the dining is more formal.

The food is grand, an interpretation of such Scottish dishes as pasties and smoked salmon. An unparalleled list of single-malt Scotches headlines a fine drink selection. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r daily, brunch sat & Sun.

6–8 S. Sarah, 314-776-1407, thescottisharms.com. $$$

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cwe Sub Zero Vodka Bar Burgers and sushi are paired with 500-plus vodkas. It’s enough to please even the most discriminating connoisseur.

A frozen-drink rail, sports TVs, and energetic music add up to a hip atmosphere.

A m e r i ca n / S u sh i .

Lunch and dinner daily,

308 N. Euclid, 314-367-1200, subzero vodkabar.com. $$ brunch sat & sun.

and appetizingly presented plates separate Tortillaria from many Mexican restaurants. It’s informal, bright, and bustling. Fish tacos and giant burritos are specialties. Don’t miss the street corn or salsa bar. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly . 8 S. Euclid, 314-361-4443, tortillaria.net. $$

Vicia A m e r i ca n . Michael and Tara Gallina introduce St. Louis to “vegetable-forward cuisine” at their muchanticipated avant garde restaurant in the Cortex district. The husband-andwife team come from Blue Hill at Stone Barns, the James Beard Award’s Restaurant of the Year in 2015, so expect good things. L u n ch Mon–Fri, dinner Tue–

4260 Forest Park, vicia restaurant.com. $$$ Sat.

Taste Small Plates. This speakeasy-inspired spot combines cool and romantic. Pair excellent tapas-style noshables with fabulously creative cocktails. Note: The place is small; waits are usually shorter on weeknights. Dinn e r da i ly. 4584 Laclede, 314-361-1200, tastebarstl. com. $$

West End Grill & Pub bar & grill. Devotees rave over the Hungarian goulash with house-made spaetzle.

Steaks and seafood are equally notable. Located beside the Gaslight Theatre, it’s convenient for dinner before a show or a post-show drink. Lunch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r da i ly, br u n ch S at & S u n . 354 N. Boyle, 314-531-4607, westendgrillandpub.com. $

the tavern kitchen & Bar See “Multiple Locations.”

The Tenderloin Room

Wild Flower Restaurant & Bar

This elegant restaurant is known for seared steaks and sauced pepperloin à la tenderloin.

The atmosphere is refreshingly formal, a setting of gentle refinement and stellar service. It’s one of the city’s most iconic dining spots for a reason. Lu n ch T u e – F r i , d i n n e r da i ly. The Chase Park Plaza, 232 N. Kingshighway, 314-361-0900, tenderloinroom.com. $$$$

When you can’t agree on a dining destination, go here. It’s got ever ything: bison steak, roast duck, wild mushroom fettuccine, with handsome presentations—not to mention one of the best patios in town. The weekend brunch is expansive. The bar’s open nightly until 1 a.m., making for pleasa n t l a t e c o n v i v i a l i t y.

Steakhouse .

A m e r i ca n .

lunch and dinner daily,

Tortillaria

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4590 Laclede, 314-367-9888, wild flowerstl.com. $$$ bru n ch sat & s u n.

Fresh ingredients, homemade tortillas, M e x i ca n .

Dining Guide 2016

Lorenzo’s Trattoria

DOGTOWN & THE HILL DTH Anthonino’s taverna Ital i a n / Gr e e k . With

a friendly staff and a 10thanniversary expansion, Anthonino’s remains a favorite.

The modern yet cozy vibe is optimal for any occasion. The menu includes hand-tossed pizzas, fresh pastas, sandwiches, salads, and gyros.

Consider reservations on weekends. Lunch & dinner M o n – Sat. 2225 Macklind, 314-773-4455, anthoninos. com. $$

bartolino’s See “Multiple Locations.”

Brazie’s Ristorante Ital i a n . The exterior’s spectacularly unassuming.

Inside, the décor’s minimalist.

Tables are filled with families and fans of such dishes as the Tenderloin Modiga, trout, and pastas. The cheesecake cassata has mysterious curative

powers. L u n ch

Tue–Fri,

3073 Watson, 314-481-5464. $$$ dinner Tue–Sun.

charlie gitto’s See “Multiple Locations.”

Cunetto House of Pasta Italian. For more than four decades, Cunetto has been serving up massive but affordable plates of pasta to those celebrating special occasions—or just another Tuesday night. Remember to leave a tip and take the cannoli. Lunch tue–Fri; dinner t u e – S u n . 5453 Magnolia, 314-781-1135, cunetto.com. $$

Dominic’s on the Hill Ital i a n . Open since 1971, Dominic’s personifies a disappearing Old World–to– New World transition marked by teams of attentive servers, classic recipes, and a romanPhotography by Kevin A. Roberts

dth tic atmosphere. D i n n e r Mon–Sat. 5101 Wilson, 314771-1632, dominicsrestaurant. com. $$$$

visions and lots of activity, but it’s all part of the fun. Lunch and dinner Tue–sun. 6401 Clayton, 314-645-6565, felixs pizzapub.com. $$

Favazza’s Ital i a n . The best reason to visit this nearly 40-yearold Hill classic—besides the house garlic bread and the generous pasta portions—is to dine on the new all-season covered patio, complete with a fireplace and its own bar. It’s fun to eat “outside” in the wintertime. Lunch and dinner M o n – Sat. 5201 Southwest, 314-772-4454, favazzas. com $$

Felix’s Pizza Pub P i z z a . The move from its former location to larger quarters across the street has put Felix’s into overdrive.

The menu includes New York– style pizza, plus sandwiches, drinks, and killer trashed wings. There are several tele-

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Gian-Tony’s Italian. Located in an old house, this stalwart offers great versions of Italian standards, plus Sicilian specialties. The servers wear black ties, but patrons often dress in polos. Don’t miss the osso buco special. Dinn e r da i ly. 5356 Daggett, 314-772-4893, gian-tonys. com. $$$

Giovanni’s on The Hill Five Bistro A m e r i ca n . Modern and seasonal, with a menu that’s constantly evolving, Five Bistro offers up food that makes a diner think. Many local providers are used, and the atmosphere is always welcoming, with chef Anthony Devoti’s parents running the front of the house.

D i n n e r T u e – Sat, l u n ch

5100 Daggett, 314-7735553, fivebistro.com. $$$$ sat.

Ital i a n. This traditional fine-dining spot is ideal for big o ccasions and romance. The next generation of Gabriele family owner-chefs has updated the restaurant without abandoning dishes named for celebrities. Proteins are the usual big sellers, but don’t neglect the pastas, which are marvelous. D i n n e r mo n - sat. 5201 Shaw, 314-772-5958, giovannis onthehill.com. $$$$

Guido’s Pizzeria & Tapas Italian. Pizza and paella on the same menu? Sure. After finishing some traditionalstyle tapas, try the St. Louis– style pizza, which is way more than just an afterthought.

Dining Guide 2016

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dth Like Modesto, this is not the sort of spot you’d expect to find on The Hill. Lunch and dinner daily. 5046 Shaw, 314-771-4900, guidosstl. com. $$

top, and bottles of wine are priced under $45. dinner mon–sat. 5257 Shaw, 314772-8272. $$

joey b’s

Bar & Grill . Better known as Pat’s, this bar has been feeding families for decades.

Fried chicken is the star, but there are also tasty sandwiches and desserts from Sugaree Baking. L u n ch

See “Multiple Locations.”

Lorenzo’s Trattoria Ital i a n . Modern Italian is carried off quite successfully at Lorenzo’s.

Sure, there are pastas and risotto, but you’ll also find a pork flatiron steak with tomato truffle bread pudding, veal liver, and ricotta cheesecake. Expect solid service in an informal atmosphere. Weekend reservations are a good idea.

D i n n e r da i ly. 1933 Edwards, 314-773-2223, lorenzos trattoria.com. $$$

The Pat Connolly Tavern

and dinner daily, brunch

6400 Oakland, 314-647-7387, patconnolly tavern.com. $$ Sat & Sun.

Rigazzi’s Italian. Rigazzi’s has long offered sustenance to folks getting off night shifts, as well as the rest of us. Pizza and meatball sandwiches seem reasonable at that early hour; whether the trademark fishbowls of beer are, well, that’s a matter of individual preference. B r e a k fast, Lunch, and dinner mon–

4945 Daggett, 314-7724900, rigazzis.com. $$ sat.

Público

Randolfi’s

University City & the Delmar Loop ucd

Seamus McDaniel’s Bar & Grill. This popular Irish pub has a large covered patio in the rear. Many opt for the immense burger, but we yearn for the pork tenderloin sandwich. Onion rings trump the fries by a country mile. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 1208 Tamm, 314645-6337, seamusmcdaniels. com. $$

Zia’s

Mona’s: An AmericanItalian Joint Ital i a n . T h e f o r m e r Modesto space now serves up mo derately priced Roman-style pizzas, handmade pastas, and such American-Italian fare as gnocchi with pork belly and roasted-corn cream sauce.

Eight Italian wines priced at $6 to $9 per glass are on

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Italian. A Hill stalwart with legions of fans for whom it’s the fallback restaurant, Zia’s offers up plenty of pasta options, always a good idea, with forays into chicken, veal, and beef. Loud and hearty rather than cozy and intimate, it’s popular with midsize groups, so be sure to reserve on weekends.

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r mo n –

5356 Wilson, 314-7760020, zias.com. $$ sat.

Dining Guide 2016

Asian Kitchen Korean Cuisine It’s best known for 15-plus banchan (side dishes) that come with each entrée. Equally impressive are the varieties of bibimbap, which rival our favorite restaurants in L.A.’s Koreatown. Lunch and dinner T ue–Sun. 8423 Olive, 314989-9377, asiankitchenstl. com. $ kor e a n .

Blueberry Hill American. This Loop landmark is known for its popculture memorabilia and darts tournaments. But it’s also a destination for hearty bar food, all-day breakfast, and a late-night menu. Live music is featured at the downstairs Duck Room. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 6504 Delmar, 314-727-4444, blueberryhill.com. $

Bobo Noodle House A s i a n . An AIA awardwinning space, Bobo serves such notable dishes as crispy pork spring rolls with a lime-soy sauce; Asian barbecue spare ribs; lemongrass beef with spicy cucumbers and chilled sesame noodles; and mussels with coconut curry, scallions, and egg noodles. Bobo’s signature sauces are also available for purchase. Lu n ch and dinner Mon–Sat. 278 N. Skinker, 314-863-7373, bobonoodle.com. $

Cicero’s A m e r i ca n. Known for its large portions, inexpensive prices, and the largest beer selection in U. City (plus beer school every Wednesday), this Loop classic doubles as a popular music venue, with bands

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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27

ucd playing almost every night of the week. L u n ch a n d dinner daily. 6691 Delmar, 314-862-0009, ciceros-stl. com. $$

Corner 17 C h i n e s e . You’ll get dinner and a show at this Loop treasure: Fresh noodles are pulled, twisted, and pared in front of you; they’re available pan-seared or in a soup. Also featured are traditional Sichuan dishes, such as cumin lamb and twice-cooked pork, and whole-milk sweet bubble tea. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 6623 Delmar, 314727-2402. $

Grab a burger, wings, or nachos with Fitz’s soda—on tap in “bottomless” mugs— or a float. Try the classic root beer, cream soda, or black cherry soda, as well as new flavors like Kaldi’s Coffee cola and Pi ginger beer.

also available for feasting at home. And the restaurant is vegetarian-friendly. Lunch buffet and dinner daily.

8501 Delmar, 314-567-6850, hoistl.com. $$

fast a n d l u n ch da i ly, e arly d i n n e r mo n – sat.

7337 Forsyth, 314-727-8427, colleenscookies.com. $

dewey’s pizza See “Multiple Locations.”

Eclipse Inventive fine dining is served amid retro lunar-themed décor at the Moonrise Hotel. The restaurant’s LED-lit bar is a colorful setting for a handcrafted cocktail, and the Rooftop Terrace Bar offers incredible views of the city’s skyline. Breakfast, A m e r i ca n.

lunch, and dinner daily.

6177 Delmar, 314-726-2222, eclipsestlouis.com. $$

Fitz’s A m e r i ca n. Known for its root beer and bottling line, Fitz’s offers a full menu of classic American food.

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lunch and dinner daily.

8224 Olive, 314-997-3108, luluseafood.com. $$

Lunch and dinner daily.

mission taco joint

6605 Delmar, 314-726-9555, fitzsrootbeer.com. $

See “Multiple Locations.”

Momos Ouzaria Taverna

Colleen’s A m e r i ca n . What began as a custom cookie bakery (and a darned good one) has morphed into a bakery/café with sandwiches and salads that match the quality of the expanded cookie and pastry selection. Renowned chef Chris Lee has improved upon an already solid menu. Break-

pull out all the stops for the weekend carts. And karaoke is available in English, Chinese, and Korean.

Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Café Yes, Jilly’s has some of the best gourmet cupcakes around—and takes the business of sweets seriously. The “everyday” cupcake is a full half-pound. But the menu also offers cake, ice cream, and a full lunch menu of soups, salads, and sandwiches, including a must-try tender brisket sandwich on a challah bun. Sunday brunch, described as a “foodie-fest,” features “the most perfect eggs Benedict” and a makeyour- own- cupcake bar.

Café.

Fork & Stix T ha i . This small side street eatery serves up authentic northern Thai cuisine, specifically from the Cheng Mai region. The flavors of lemongrass, makrut lime leaves, cilantro, chili paste, lime juice, coconut, fish sauce, tamarind, mint, sweet chili, garlic, basil, and curry reign supreme here. They’re found in traditional soups, salads, spring rolls, and noodle, rice, meat, seafood, and vegetarian entrées, often containing locally sourced meats and produce. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sun. 549 Rosedale, 314-863-5572, forknstix.com. $

House of India Long heralded locally and nationally as one of the best Indian restaurants in St. Louis, House of India offers an extensive menu of authentic dishes. The daily buffet is a popular business lunch and weekend tradition for many. Takeout is Indian.

Dining Guide 2016

lunch daily, changes seasonally. 8509 Delmar, 314-

993-5455, jillyscupcakebar. com. $

kaldi’s coffee roasting co.

See “Multiple Locations.”

Greek. All of your favorite traditional Greek dishes are expertly prepared and offered with a playful cocktail menu, some ouzo, and a little belly dancing on the side. The menu of cold and hot mezes is extensive. The avgolemono (chicken broth with orzo and lemon) Soup of the Day special is one of the best in the city. And don’t leave without a triangle of baklava. Lu n ch M o n – Sat, dinner daily. 630 North & South, 314-863-3511, momos greekrestaurant.com. $

Nobu’s Japa n e s e / S u sh i . At the best Japanese restaurant in St. Louis, the sushi is correctly prepared and presented, with minimal Americanized silliness. Tempura is crisp, golden, and hot. Don’t overlook the noodle dishes— or the kamameshi: seasoned rice, chicken, and vegetables steamed in a pot. L u n ch Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–Sat.

8643 Olive, 314-997-2303, nobusushistl.com. $$

the pasta house co.

See “Multiple Locations.”

LuLu Seafood & DIM SUM A s i a n . A red-and-gold entrance prepares you for the authentic dining experience you’re about to experience. The restaurant’s four chefs hail from Sichuan, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing. They bring the regions’ best culinary techniques with them. Two chefs are experts in dim sum and

Peacock Loop Diner Diner. Owner Joe Edwards wanted “to create a diner unlike any other in the U.S.” Mission accomplished. Anticipate classic diner fare, plus some surprises, like a chicken club and a Finals Breakfast Sandwich (served between two waffles). Display cases hold peacock

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

ucd memorabilia, and the tiered diner counters mimic a peacock’s feathers. The diner never closes, so you can shake your tail feather all night long. Open 24 hours.

6261 Delmar, 314-721-5555, peacockloopdiner.com. $

particularly attractive, but everything at this unusual place is memorable. D i n ner wed –mon, by re ser-

8106 Olive, 314-989-0283. $$ vat i o n o n ly.

pi pizzeria See “Multiple Locations.”

Pho Long Vietnamese. This no-nonsense noodle joint is short of menu items but long on righteous flavor. Pho Long is an outlier for lovers of this Vietnamese soup, with traditional flavors of charred onion, cinnamon, and clove lurking in an oh-so-beefy broth that promises to keep you coming back for more. lu n ch a n d d i n n e r wed –mon. 8627 Olive, 314997-1218. $

La Pizza Pizza . Heralded by many as the best New York–style pizza in town, La Pizza might also be the tiniest pizzeria you’ve ever visited. There are just a few tables, so arrive early or order to go. The dough is hand-tossed, the cheese is 100 percent whole-milk, and everything is made in-house. Stromboli, calzones, hero sandwiches, and salads are also available. lunch and dinner daily

8137 Delmar, 314-725-1230, lapizzamenu.com. $$

Público m e x i ca n . At Público, the massive hearth, with its wood fire, creates the exceptional flavors of dishes inspired by countries south of the border. Adventurous selections like arepas topped with turkey liver butter, fried sage, and maple syrup share space with comforting tacos al pastor. The menu changes seasonally. Presentations are always superb, and the food’s delicious. D i n n e r Tue–Sun. 6679 Delmar, 314833-5780, publicostl.com. $$$

Randolfi’s Italian Kitchen Enjoy chef Mike Randolph’s imaginative interpretations of classic Italian dishes, rooted in his family traditions. From sauce to soups, pastas to pizzas, Randolph and his crew execute each dish from scratch, using fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes seasonally. Don’t miss the Italian-inspired cocktails. Dinner Tue–Sun. 6665 Delmar, 314-899-9221, randolfis.com. $$ Ital i a n.

Private Kitchen The concept’s unique: a bespoke Chinese eatery where you must call ahead, not just for reservations, but also to consult on the menu. It’s tiny, intimate, more like eating in the chef ’s home than a restaurant, with exquisite service.

The dishes are predominantly Shanghai-style, with subtle sauces. Seafoods are Chinese.

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Salt + Smoke

VietNam Style

A singular focus on “barbecue, bourbon, and beer” translates to loads of meat (pulled pork, pulled chicken, ribs, brisket, and smoked trout), craft and barrel-aged cocktails, and more than 40 bourbons. Don’tmiss sides include fried house pickles with flaxseed mayo, hush puppies with maple butter, and burntend toasted ravioli. Craft beer is plentiful, and meat is available to go by the pound.

Vietname se . This bright, cheery addition to the East Loop offers both Vietnamese standards and steak specialties. The signature Bo Ne is highly recommended.

Barbecue.

LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY.

6100 Delmar, 314-4058348. $$

Lunch and dinner daily.

6525 Delmar, 314-727-0200, saltandsmokestl.com. $$

Seoul Taco Korean. The descendant of a still operational food truck mashes up Korean staples such as bulgogi and spicy pork with Mexican musts like tacos and burritos. Owner David Choi’s generations-old 24-hour meat marination process almost guarantees a return visit. Seoul’s relocation to a larger space in the Loop and major expansion one year later are a testament to its popularity. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly, 6665 Delmar. 314-863-1148, seoul taco.com. $

three kings public house See “Multiple Locations.”

Winslow’s Home A m e r i ca n . Winslow ’s Home offers locally sourced food and home goods. Much of the menu features organic fruits, vegetables, flowers, and herbs grown on Winslow’s Farm. Breakfast includes buttermilk pancakes and corned beef hash; for lunch, order the torta rustica or the Brie and brisket sandw i c h . B r e a k fast a n d l u n ch T u e – S u n , d i n n e r

Vernon’s BBQ & Catering

7213 Delmar, 314725-7559, winslowshome. com. $$ tue–sat.

B arb e c u e . At Vernon’s, you’ll find a whole lotta barbecue for your dollar: baby back ribs, brisket, pulled pork, chicken wings, and even smoked tofu. You’ll also notice unexpected flavors: tequila-lime green beans, smoked seasonal fruit, and barbecue nachos.

Rolling garage doors in the dining room are open when the weather is nice. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sun.

6707 Vernon, 314-726-1227, vernonsbbq.com. $$

Wonton King Chine se . One of the most authentic Chinese restaurants around, Wonton King offers more than 100 items.

Standout entrées include Cantonese dim sum, Hong Kong braised noodles, roast duck, congee, Singaporestyle fried vermicelli, and cashew chicken. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 8116 Olive, 314-567-9997, wonton kingsaintlouis.com. $$

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BIG STEAKS & BIG WINE Located across from the Ritz Carlton in Clayton,

We offer private dining for groups up to 50 guests,

801 Chophouse transports you back to an authentic

specializing in private luncheons and dinners, cocktail

1920’s New York-style steakhouse, serving only the

parties and events up to 200, and feature customized menus.

finest aged USDA Prime steaks. Enjoy our daily Fresh Sheet, featuring finned fish, East and West Coast

For lunch, cocktails, dinner or your private event,

oysters, live Maine lobsters, seasonal salads and

we’re confident your experience will be memorable.

innovative sides. Explore our award-winning wine list and extensive collection of small batch bourbons and single malt Scotches.

AT 801 CHOPHOUSE, OUR RESTAURANT IS YOUR RESTAURANT.

FOR RESERVATIONS

314.895.9900 801chophouse.com/st-louis 801chophouseSTL@801restaurants.com

ct energy spot is famous for its sangria, small plates, and sidewalk tables. It’s well suited for a night out watching the game or a last drink during a first date. Lunch and dinn e r da i ly. 34 N. Central, 314-863-9909, barcelona tapas.com/st-louis. $$

Bar Les Frères French. Despite the name, Bar Les Frères is not your brothers’ bar. (It’s actually across the street from I Fratellini, also owned by restaurateur Zoe Robinson.) One of the most romantic restaurants in town, the tiny storefront is the perfect spot for a glass of Champagne, whether to make a first impression or to celebrate a special occasion. Dinner Mon–Sat. 7637 Wydown, 314-725-8880, bar lesfreres.net. $$$

I Fratellini

CLAYTON ct 801 Chophouse

Almonds Restaurant

This restaurant is a throwback to the days when green-coated servers pushed gueridon carts through fine dining rooms. A magnificent oval bar anchors the restaurant, the fifth location of the Des Moines, Iowa– based steakhouse. Dinner daily. 137 Carondelet Plaza, 314-875-9900, 801restaurant group.com/st-louis. $$$$

A m e r i ca n. In the increasingly competitive fried-chicken scene, this inexpensive popular haunt—which also boasts many notable New Orleans–influenced dishes— continues to shine. L u n ch

Steakhouse .

801 Fish seafood. At St. Louis’ most lavish seafood restaurant, everything is posh and sleek, and the wine list shines. The oceans’ best appears with a minimum of fussiness—the emphasis is on the fish itself.

801 boasts the best chilled shrimp and fried clams this side of the Mississippi. Go early for the felicitous happy hour. DINNER DAILY. 172 Carondelet Plaza, 314-8759636, 801fish.com. $$$$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–Sat.

8127 Maryland, 314-725-1019, almondsrestaurant.com. $$

Avenue A m e r i ca n . Chef Bryan Carr’s reliable newest outpost serves modern and homestyle fare with French accents. Ask for a seat in the back room, with its fireplace and chandelier; it’s a great spot for a quiet business breakfast. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, brunch Sat & Sun.

12 N. Meramec, Clayton, 314727-4141, avestl.com. $$$

BARcelona Tapas Restaurant Small Plate s.

This high-

Café Napoli Italian. A favorite among Clayton power brokers, Napoli serves pasta and other Italian standards. Pair your meal with a glass from the extensive wine list, available on tablets. Lunch Mon–Fri, d i n n e r M o n – S at. 7754 Forsyth, 314-863-5731, cafe napoli.com. $$$

Cantina Laredo M e x i ca n . A fairly new kid on the block but not in the biz, this is the modern Mexican chain’s eighth location—though the sleek space reads more Clayton than chain. Grab a margarita and a seat by the open fireplace, and watch your server craft the guacamole tableside.

36 N. Brentwood, 314-862-2489, citycoffeeandcreperie.com. $ a n d l u n ch da i ly.

The Crossing european. This classic, unobtrusive spot wowed diners from the start, and it continues to dazzle. Its four-for-$35 tasting menu is a frontrunner for the best dining deal in St. Louis. At lunch, the burger is not to be missed. Lu n ch Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat.

7823 Forsyth, 314-721-7375, fialafood.com/the-crossing. $$$$

crushed red urban bake and chop shop See “Multiple Locations.”

DeMun Oyster Bar S e afood . This diminutive on-trend oyster bar wows with its rotating selection of fresh bivalves, killer chowders, and an array of wines, craft cocktails, and beer. l u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly, br u n ch s u n .

740 DeMun, 314-725-0322, demunoysterbar.com. $$

Dominic’s Trattoria Ital i a n . Tucked in the bottom of a Clayton condo, Dominic’s has remained one of the most beloved Chicken Parma palaces in St. Louis.

Details like the tapenade accompanying the bread and perfectly timed service elevate this trattoria. Dress up and appreciate a night of gracious eating. Lunch mon– fri, dinner mon–sat. 200 S. Brentwood, 314-863-4567, dominicsrestaurant.com. $$$

Lunch and dinner daily.

five star burgers

7710 Forsyth, 314-725-2447, cantinalaredo.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

The Grill City Coffee House & Crêperie C af é . Ann Gallardo’s European café serves specialty breakfast, lunch, and dessert crêpes; homemade pastries; sandwiches; salads; and soups. B r e a k fast

American. Oh, so classy.

Dinner is an experience, surrounded by dark wood and white tablecloths, with superb presentations and sterling-silver service. There’s a decidedly decorous air of gentility and civility. Seafood, steaks,

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ct and a dazzling wine selection combine seamlessly for meals that are consistent with everything else at The Ritz. Dinner thu–sat. The Ritz-Carlton, 100 Carondelet, 314-8636300, ritzcarlton.com. $$$$

Lunch and dinner daily.

See “Multiple Locations.”

protein-loving pals or while celebrating something special. It delivers. It isn’t cheap, but life’s short. And a steak dinner from Morton’s is glorious. Dinner daily. 7822 Bonhomme, 314725-4008, mortons.com. $$$$

Half & Half

The Libertine

Oceano Bistro

A mix of standard fare and variations, such as mascarpone-and-raspberry pancakes, sate the appetites of sweet- and savorybreakfast aficionados alike in this packed-from-the-start champion of the local brunch scene. A rotating selection of guest roasters’ coffee is also a highlight. Breakfast and

Since some kitchen changes, the fare is a little more classic comfort than the original menu. With owner Nick Luedde’s hospitality and eye for interesting wines, combined with the bar staff’s outstanding craft cocktails, The Libertine continues its winning ways. Din-

S e afood. Seafood flown in daily and a fantastic veranda continue to bring diners to one of the city’s only seafood restaurants, one of the hottest see-and-be-seen spots.

Call ahead for a window seat.

l u n ch T u e – F r i , bru n ch

7927 Forsyth, 314-862-2999, libertinestl.com. $$$

A m e r i ca n .

8135 Maryland, 314-725-0719, halfandhalfstl. com. $$ Sat & S u n.

Herbie’s In late 2016, Herbie’s moved from the Central West End to the former Cardwell’s in Clayton space, along with many of the legendary posters and mirrors. Expect the same signature dishes, as well as a refined version of Midwest comfort food with French influences, including some tableside presentations.

American.

L UN C H M O N – F R I , D INNE R DA I LY, B R UN C H SAT– S UN .

8100 Maryland, 314-7699595, herbies.com. $$$

I Fratellini A longtime staple, Zoe Robinson’s cozy but elegant 40-seater is located in a quiet pocket of Clayton. Make a reservation and enjoy a romantic dinner of straightforward Italian classics. Lunch Italian.

Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat.

7624 Wydown, 314-727-7901, ifratellini.com. $$$

Katie’s Pizzeria Café A range of interestingly topped Tuscan-style pizzas, salads, and appetizers make up the menu at this eclectically decorated café. Classic toasted ravioli is kicked up with an artichoke and Gorgonzola–stuffed variation.

Pizza .

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6611 Clayton, 314-727-8585, katiespizzacafe.com. $$

kaldi’s coffee roasting co.

A m e r i ca n .

n e r da i ly, br u n ch s u n .

Lu n ch M o n – Sat, d i n n e r

44 N. Brentwood, 314-721-9400, oceanobistro.com. $$$ daily, brunch Sun.

16 S. Bemiston, 314-875-9373 louieswinedive.com. $$

Parigi

Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat.

It’s among the most elegant restaurants in town, with a cool and sleek Continental feel. The menu’s Italian, with a dash of French. There’s arancini, risotto, fish stew. Presentations look effortlessly perfect. Reserve a table near the big windows and dine during a spectacularly romantic sunset. LUNCH AND

222 S. Bemiston, 314-726-5757, remyskitchen.com. $$$

European.

D INNE R T UE - S AT, O C C A S I O N A L S UN DAY B R UN C H .

8025 Bonhomme, 314-8999767, parigistl.com. $$$$

Morton’s The Steakhouse

Pastaria

It has steaks.

Surprised? No. You know what the place is: a famous chain with top-quality meat and a luxurious atmosphere. You eat here while entertaining clients or

A wide selection of house-made organic pastas account for the bulk of the menu at this family-focused Italian dining hall. Woodfired pizzas and veggie-

Dining Guide 2016

Italian. This neighborhood trattoria blends old-style Italian with less-expected options. It’s an above-average spot for vegetarians, too, with five meat-free pizzas, among other suitable options. If he’s not otherwise occupied, the chatty chef/ proprietor will bring you up to date on things. D INNE R

A m e r i ca n . A standout on Clayton’s formidable dining scene, Remy’s is a frequent winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Lesser known is the “ecstatic hour,” luring post-work crowds with small dishes and cocktails to ease the transition from work time to your time. L u n ch

DA I LY, B R UN C H SAT– S UN .

Steakhouse .

Peno

Remy’s Kitchen & Wine Bar

L UN C H M O N – F R I , D INNE R

Hacienda restaurant’s first foray into t h e f a s t - c a s u a l re a l m boasts fresh street tacos, salads, bowls, and quesadillas—all with ultraspeedy service. Try the Wet Burrito, topped with queso and red and green sauces (the colors of the Mexican flag). LUN C H A N D DINNER MON–SAT. 7810 Forsyth, 314-833-8200, mayana mex.com. $

7734 Forsyth, 314-862-6603, pastariastl.com. $$

7600 Wydown, 314-899-9699, penosoulfood.com. $$

American. Wine, yes. Dive, no. The place is so handsome, it’s hard to believe that it’s part of a small chain. The food is as much the focus as the wine is. The don’t-miss dish is the deviled eggs, which are festooned with bacon.

M e x i ca n .

daily, brunch sat & Sun.

TUE–SUN, BRUNCH SAT–SUN.

Louie’s Wine Dive

Mayana Mexican Kitchen

centric apps make up the rest. The reasonable prices mean that you can take the family and enjoy some gelato, too. Lunch and dinner

The Restaurant A m e r i ca n . The owners wasted no energy coming up with a clever name and instead put it all into the cool, dark décor, with an icebergsized bar dominating the center of an attractive dining space. The food’s suitably chic. Brunch is extravagant, with dishes such as prime rib hash, and the cocktails are good anytime. B r e a kfast da i ly, lu n ch M o n –

Italian.

Sat. The Ritz-Carlton, 100 Carondelet, 314-863-6300, ritzcarlton.com. $$$

ruth’s chris steakhouse See “Multiple Locations.”

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Five Star Burgers

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ct Sardella

Cardwell’s at the Plaza

Gerard Craft’s latest endeavor features creative-yet-comforting Italianinfluenced fare at lunch and dinner, as well as house-baked pastries, grain bowls, and riffs on morning meal classics at breakfast time. BREAKFAST, i tal i a n .

See “Multiple Locations.”

American. Located inside Plaza Frontenac, Cardwell’s continues to hit the mark after more than 20 years in business. Bill Cardwell’s offerings, some standards and others seasonal, make for sup erior me als. A wood-fired oven, elegant wine list, and well-trained staff all add to the experience. Lunch and dinner daily. Plaza Frontenac, 94 Plaza Frontenac, 314997-8885, billcardwell.com/ cardwells.html. $$$

Tani Sushi Bistro

companion Café

After a move, the popular sushi spot now benefits from a larger space that retains the loungelike feel of the original. Sushi is fine, particularly the rolls; consider, though, specialties like tempura and teriyaki. Lunch

See “Multiple Locations.”

LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY.

7734 Forsyth, 314-862-6603, nichestlgroup.com. $$

sasha’s wine bar See “Multiple Locations.”

sauce on the side

Japa n e s e /S u sh i .

crushed red urban bake and chop shop See “Multiple Locations.”

Dave & Tony’s Premium Burger Joint

EdgeWild Bistro & Tap

Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–Sat.

7726 Forsyth, 314-296-8069, tanisushi.com. $$

wasabi sushi bar See “Multiple Locations.”

Wicked Greenz A m e r i ca n . A new fast-casual concept from fine-dining chef Justin Haifley (formerly of The Tavern and Cucina Pazzo) features healthy graband-go meals, soups, and 13 inspired salads. In true chef style, each salad is paired with its own dressing. In-store service and delivery (in Clayton, via bicycle) are both superfast.

LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY.

16 N. Central, 314-727-2772, wickedgreenz.com. $

Whitebox Eatery am e r i ca n . Order at the counter of this airy cosmopolitan space and enjoy a range of breakfast and lunch classics, as well as house-made pastries. B r e a k fast a n d lunch daily, brunch Sat

176 Carondelet Plaza, 314-862-2802, whitebox eatery.com. $ & S u n.

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Ladue, Frontenac, Creve Coeur & Olivette lfco

Bricktop’s This attractively appointed, dimly lit place fills the bill, no matter what sounds good for dinner.

Fresh seafood is delivered daily, and you can find classics such as meatloaf, prime rib, salads, and burgers. Don’t miss the candied bacon and deviled egg appetizer. Lunch and dinner daily. 10342 Clayton, 314-567-6300, bricktops.com/st-louis. $$$ A m e r i ca n .

Brio Tuscan Grille Ital i a n . Lots of marble, drapes, and warm colors lend a lush Mediterranean touch.

The fare includes Americanized Italian favorites, with some superior pasta dishes and grilled specialties. Go early and hang out at the bar.

Dining Guide 2016

After dinner, try the seasonally flavored bread pudding.

Lunch and dinner daily,

1601 S. Lindbergh, 314-432-4410, brioitalian.com. $$$ brunch sat & sun.

bristol seafood grill See “Multiple Locations.”

Canyon Café am e r i ca n . It’s more Tex than Mex—think of it as Southwestern Spicy. Sirloin gets a chili rub, and chicken chowder is spiked with poblanos. Enchiladas, “street” tacos, and fajitas are all good. Regulars rave about the chips and “limit-two” margaritas.

am e r i ca n . Construct your own gourmet burger from a wide array of ingredients, some fairly inventive. Burgers are juicy, and the fries are splendid. The atmosphere is just above that of fast food, but it’s comfortable. It’s often crowded at lunch, but the family-friendly dinner is more sedate. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 12766 Olive, 314-439-5100, daveand tonys.com. $

EdgeWild Bistro & TAP American. The menu’s ambitious: pizza, sandwiches, salads, along with such meals as Cajun penne and fried smoked chicken. It’s one of those places that’s suitable for a business lunch or a weekend dinner with the family. The beer selection is worthy, too.

Lunch and dinner daily.

12316 Olive, 314-548-2222, edgewildbistro.com. $$

Lunch and dinner daily.

1707 S. Lindbergh, 314-8723443, canyoncafe.com. $$

Five Star Burgers See “Multiple Locations.”

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

lfco Fleming’s prime steakhouse & wine bar What distinguishes Fleming’s from other high-end steak-oramas? They all have excellent meat, a luxurious atmosphere, and quality sides. But Fleming’s also has a fabulous happy hour, with such daily specials as an outstanding cheeseburger. An early dinner here can be both delicious and affordable. D i n n e r da i ly, bru n ch s u n. 1855 S. Lindbergh, 314-567-7610, flemingssteakhouse.com. $$$$ S t e a k ho u s e .

Italian restaurants, Il Bel Lago is consistently one of the best. Presentations are extravagant. The menu’s classic Italian. Happy hour, lasting until 8 p.m., offers lots of affordable small plates. L u n ch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r M o n – S at. 11631 Olive, 314-994-1080, bellagostl.com. $$$

kimcheese See “Multiple Locations.”

Kreis’ Steakhouse & Bar Generations of St. Louisans have dined sumptuously at Kreis’. The atmosphere’s strictly dark wood and soft lighting. Everything’s à la carte. There are hefty steaks; the prime rib is a specialty. Wines are refreshingly affordable. The staff ’s been there since the Eisenhower administration.

It’s opulent, timeless, and satisfying. D i n n e r da i ly.

535 S. Lindbergh, 314-9930735, kreisrestaurant.com. $$$$ Steakhouse.

La Bonne Bouchée If you can make it past the pastry case, your self-discipline is exemplary. Enjoy the quiches, onion soup, frittatas, pastry-wrapped vol au vent, and ruinously rich croissants. The atmosphere is civilized. And the macarons, tarts, and tortes are waiting on your way out.

C af é .

Giovanni’s Kitchen Italian. Flavors and textures combine in intricate presentations. There’s an impressive Italian-heavy wine list, crisp service, and some unexpected dishes, including the moon-shaped, prosciutto-stuffed ravioli and Chianti-marinated tenderloin. It’s deliziosa dining in a formal, reasonably priced atmosphere.

B ar & Gr i ll .

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Although there are plenty of big TVs, the name is misleading.

It’s less sports bar, more neighb orho o d e ater y.

There are house-smoked meats, fine sandwiches, and de cent barb e cue.

Soups and salads are particularly delicious. Expect

Sportsman’s Park Bar & Grill. It’s beloved for its happy hour. Locals know the tiny watering hole for its attractive bar food: wraps, sliders, wings, and some fine curly fries. The walls are plastered with sports memorabilia; every seat has a TV view. It’s always crowded, enjoyable, and a solid lunch choice. Lunch and dinner da i ly. 9901 Clayton, 314991-3381, sportsmanspark ladue.com. $$

sugarfire smoke house See “Multiple Locations.”

9638 Olive, 314-995-9945. $

sugo’s spaghetteria the original pancake house

See “Multiple Locations.”

See “Multiple Locations.”

Truffles

Peshwa indian. The buffet here is splendid, featuring regional dishes from all over India.

Alternately, the menu has dozens of specialties, including a sprawling assortment of vegetarian offerings and chaat, or street snacks. Fragrant, fluffy rice biryani are outstanding.

It’s a modest place, with few frills but lots of firstrate Indian fare. L u n ch

A m e r i ca n . Truffles is a Ladue landmark, clasically appointed, with an emphasis on creative preparations of quality ingredients. Note the award-winning wine list. And be sure to pick up some prime meats at the Butchery next door before heading home. Lunch and dinner Tue–Fri, dinner o n ly Sat. 9202 Clayton, 314-567-9100, todayat truffles.com. $$$$

and dinner Wed–Mon.

10633 Page, 314-428-8888, peshwafood.com. $$

the post sports bar and grill See “Multiple Locations.”

Pizza . Order a chopped salad and a “designer pizza” in a telephone booth–sized portico, then eat at an outside table or take your food home.

The toppings include such unusual options as meatloaf, Thai chicken, and cremini mushrooms. This is a Provelfree zone. Dinner tue–sun.

9769 Clayton, 314-997-7070, redlpizza.com. $$

12344 Olive, 314-576-6606, labonnebouchee.com. $

721-4100, giovanniskitchen stl.com. $$$

Ital i a n . Among West County’s upscale formal

fast a n d l u n ch da i ly.

Red-L Pizza

Lester’s Sports Bar

Il Bel Lago

diner. You’re wedged into a time warp at this diner, where hash browns are hand-cut and biscuits are draped with a creamy mantle of gravy. There are burgers, chili, and (of course) glorious slingers. The atmosphere’s full of ’50s décor and regulars. Break-

da i ly, d i n n e r T u e – S at.

Tue–Sun. 8831 Ladue, 314-

See “Multiple Locations.”

Olivette Diner

B r e a k fast a n d l u n ch

L u n ch T u e – F r i , d i n n e r

gulf shores restaurant & grill

a convivial, family-friendly atmosphere. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 9906 Clayton, 314-994-0055, lestersrestaurant.com. $$

the shack See “Multiple Locations.”

Via Vino Enoteca Small Plates. It’s romantic, classy, and intimate. A compact menu is balanced between small plates and larger courses, both exemplary. Grab a seat away from the bar, which swiftly fills with those waiting for a table. The warm apple tart is a must for dessert. Dinner Mon–Sat .

10427 Clayton, 314-5690405, viaviavino.com. $$

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street taco + made from scratch tortilla = deliciosa!

www.MayanaMex.com Mon-Sat 11am-8pm

7810 Forsyth Blvd., Clayton

Online ordering • We CAter 36

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Dining Guide 2016

mbr service. Fish and steaks get a wood-grilled treatment that highlights flavor and enhances texture. Lunch and dinner da i ly, bru n ch s u n. 8780 Eager, 314-918-1649, bonefish grill.com. $$$

Boogaloo

Basso Boundary

Maplewood, Brentwood & Richmond Heights mbr Acero Cucina povera is glorious at this simple-yettrendsetting place, where lighter pasta portions and affordable wine quartinos contribute to satisfying, memorable dinners. The four-course prix fixe is inevitably worthwhile. D i n n e r M o n – Sat. 7266 Manchester, 314- 644-1790, fialafood.com/acero. $$ Ital i a n .

shrimp sausage. And happy hour doesn’t cease till 7 p.m.

Dinner daily, lunch sun, cha n g e s s e aso n ally.

7036 Clayton, 314-932-7820, basso-stl.com. $$

Ital i a n . The draw here, at one of the hippest bistrotype eateries in town, is smallportion Italian fare: roasted Brussels sprouts, seared pork belly, creamy burrata. Pizzas are topped with unexpected ingredients like duck egg and

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Boundary The flagship restaurant at The Cheshire (formerly The Restaurant) rebranded, adding a raw bar and an array of comfortable seating options. The open kitchen and the chef’s table remain for those who like to see the back of the house at work. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINA m e r i ca n .

NER DAILY, BRUNCH SAT &

7036 Clayton, 314-9327818, boundary-stl.com. $$$ SUN.

Blue Sky Tower Grill American. There are burgers, wraps, pizzas, nachos, and daily specials. But the real draw at this quirky, bright eatery: more than 60 martinis. lu n ch a n d d i n n e r M o n –

Basso

C ar i bb e a n . The tapas menu boasts several dishes that you’re not likely to find anywhere else in St. Louis, such as Brazil nut–encrusted manchego cheese and conch fritters. The sandwich menu features one of the best Cuban sandwiches in town, the Cubaniche, along with a vegetarian version. The Cuban Paella brings the flavors of Cuba—shrimp, mussels, clams, market fish, andouille sausage, saffron, coconut milk, Valencia rice—to the heart of Maplewood. Try to finagle a seat at the bar (they’re swings!) or a seat on the hidden patio out back. L u n ch and dinner Mon–Sat. 7344 Manchester, 314-645-4803, boogalooswings.com. $$

1034 S. Brentwood, 314726-2583, blueskystl.com. $$ Sat.

Bonefish Grill Seafood. It’s like a very nice, very big, very classy bar that also serves great food. Should you want a quiet tête-à-tête, hang in the bar, with full meal

Carl’s Drive In American. Waiting for one of only a handful of seats in this closet-sized place is a St. Louis tradition. Crispy spatula-thin burgers sizzle, and golden onion rings crackle in hot oil. The aroma conjures pure, delicious nostalgia.

Don’t even think about not ordering the root beer float.

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r T u e –

9033 Manchester, 314961-9652. $ Sat.

The Crow’s Nest A m e r i ca n . Iconic rock and pop concert posters line the walls, menus are presented in album covers, and old movies are projected onto one wall. Must-try house specialties include the pork poutine and deepfried deviled eggs. A Metal Brunch on Sundays brings typical breakfast fare with a soundtrack of classic metal bands. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch sat & sun .

7336 Manchester, 314-7810989, eatcrowstl.com. $

Fox & Hounds Tavern A m e r i ca n . Cozy, retroromantic, and chockfull of nooks, the Fox & Hounds is where you’ll stop for a cocktail and end up staying for more, such as the Liverpool wings, grilled salmon, or chocolate gooey butter cake. The fireplace is a perfect place to gather and reminisce. Dinner and early dinner daily.

6300 Clayton, 314-6477300, cheshirestl.com. $$

Frank Papa’s Ristorante Italian. Linen tablecloths, sparkling tableware, and a splendid wall of wine are hints: This is classic—surprisingly affordable—Italian dining. It’s posh. Chocolate ravioli is the best dessert; before getting there, you’ll work your way through superior veal dishes, some grand pastas and risotto, and delightful primi offerings like mussels diavolo. d i n n e r M o n – Sat. 2241 S. Brentwood, 314-961-3344, frankpapas.com. $$$

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken A m e r i ca n . This popular chicken house from Memphis offers spicing that varies a little from day to day, as well as country-style sides.

The medium-spicy chicken (and less-spicy chicken fingers) have legions of devo-

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mbr tees. Full table service in a casual setting. LUN C H A N D DINNER DAILY. 7434 Manchester, 314-899-9899, gusfriedchicken.com. $$

mike duffy’s pub and grill See “Multiple Locations.”

Joy Luck Buffet Chinese . This local favorite has a buffet whose offerings are constantly replenished.

The variety runs the gamut from Americanized items to authentically exotic dishes.

Seafood selections are particularly enticing. For those with a taste for spicy Sichuan, Joy Luck offers one of the best hot pots in town. Lunch and d i n n e r da i ly. 8030 Manchester, 314-645-9982. $$

Mai Lee Mai Lee is St. Louis’ go-to for beefy, herby pho. The menu’s big and so is the space, which is always crowded. If you’re adventurous, ask the staff for suggestions, or try the canh chua ca, an addictive fish stew.

Make this a Sunday-night dinner stop. L u n ch a n d d i n ner Tue–Sun. 8396 Musick Memorial, 314-645-2835, maileestl.com. $$ V i e t n am e sE .

Revel Kitchen American. St. Louis Cardi-

The Muddled Pig Gastropub Bar & Gr i ll . As the name implies, expect a pork-centric menu with upscale takes on classic dishes, such as poutine topped with a poached egg. The vibe is a satisfying combo of elevated eatery and neighborhood joint, which means a tight craft beer selection. LUNCH TUE–SUN, DINNER T UE–SAT. 2733 Sutton, 314-781-4607, themuddledpig. com. $$

Nadoz Bakery + Café Maya Café Pa n - L at i n . Reopened

in February 2015, this popular Maplewood haunt was closed for so long, we’d almost forgotten about the hand-shaken margaritas and pollo en pepián dulce, best enjoyed on the “shipwreck” patio out back.

L u n ch T u e – Sat, d i n n e r daily. 2726 Sutton, 314-781-

4774, mayacafestl.com. $$

Michael’s Bar and Grill bar & g r i ll . Traditional Greek flavors can be found in this neighborhood sports-bar setting. Fried zucchini with horseradish sauce is a refreshing twist on French fries. The 10-ounce Michael Burger is a sight to behold, especially when topped with a ball of soft cheddar. Lunch and dinner daily. 7101 Manchester, 314644-2240. $$

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culinarians serves amped-up “neighborhood restaurant” fare with a beverage program to match. The main dining room is upstairs, but we prefer the action on the ground floor. d i n n e r w e d – mo n , B r u n ch sat & s u n . 7322 Manchester, 314-899-9821, reedsamericantable.com. $$

caf é . Did you think life couldn’t get any better than sprinkle-topped donuts? Try the Nutella-slathered crêpes.

Or if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider the salmon-bagel platter.

As for lunch, there are burgers, paninis, savory crêpes, sandwiches, and salads. And on hot days, check out the blended iced frappés. hours vary by location. 12 The Boulevard, 314-726-3100, nadozcafe.com $

the post sports bar and grill See “Multiple Locations.”

Reeds american table am e r i ca n. Led by former Taste chef Matt Daughaday and the city’s most credentialed sommelier, Andrey Ivanov, a crackerjack team of

Dining Guide 2016

nals nutritionist Simon Lusky hit the proverbial home run when he created a 100 percent gluten-free menu that’s both delicious and inexpensive.

Choose from juices, smoothies, salads, bowls, handhelds, and healthy takeout meal plan options. B r e a k fast,

Schlafly Bottleworks Bar & Grill. Schlafly offers 20 beers on tap and hearty pub food created from local provisions. Consider the beer bread or the chorizo meatloaf with a Fitz’s root beer–tomato glaze. An outdoor farmers’ market runs Wednesdays from April through October, and there’s an indoor market from November through March. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch sat & sun.

7260 Southwest, 314-2412337, schlafly.com. $$

l u n ch , a n d e arly d i n n e r da i ly. 8388 Musick Memorial, 314-647-2222, eat revelkitchen.com. $

Riverbend Restaurant Ca j u n /C r e ol e . It’s reminiscent of New Orleans— without the corruption and drunken collegians. Spicy, smoky Cajun-Creole flavors are authentically rendered in a place that has the feel of a relaxed neighborhood eatery. The specials, such as our town’s best turtle soup, are always worthwhile, and regular fare, such as gumbo, po’ boys, and jambalaya is delectably perfect. Lu n ch and dinner Tue–Sun. 1059 S. Big Bend, 314-664-8443, riverbendbar.com. $$

Robata Japa n e s e . Ramen’s a big draw. The tonkotsu broth is milky-rich, and a salt-smacked miso-flavored version is entirely worthy of your attention.

Robata also offers Japanese specialties, such as grilled yellowtail jaw and salmon and rice, that are rarely served locally. It’s small and crowded, with all the atmosphere of a cozy neighborhood Tokyo joint. DINNER MON-SAT. 7260 Manchester, 314-899-9595, robatamaplewood.com. $$

twin Oak wood-fired Pizza and bbq P i z z a / barb e c u e . Woodfired pizza and barbecue?

If this place had local beers and good cocktails, it’d be the perfect restaurant.

Oh, wait—it does. The relaxed ambience makes for an ideal gathering spot.

Don’t overlook the salads; ingredients are fresh. Two musts: the wood-fired wings and the deep-dish chocolatechip cookie dessert.

Lu n ch T u e – S u n , d i n n e r nightly. 1201 Strassner, 314-644-2772, twinoak woodfired.com. $$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

PIZZA • PART Y • PATIO

S U N D AY B R U N C H

10 : 0 0 a . m . — 2 : 0 0 p . m .

Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar 131 W. Argonne Dr. Kirkwood, MO 314.984.4000 | www.billygskirkwood.com

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Party Punch...

Make a memory with Balaban’s

Catering • Fine Food Retail Wine 1772 clarkson rd. at Baxter chesterfield, Mo 63017 Phone: 636.449.6700

www.balabanswine.com 40

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Dining Guide 2016

kwrd Water Street

the block

You’re gonna pass on a place with a Corpse Reviver #2 cocktail? We didn’t think so. Light meals such as grilled polenta and chicken pot pie go great with a long selection of mixed drinks and wine. The feel here is sleek, swank, and stylish. (Oh, and Fridays feature a rollicking combination movie night/happy hour.) D i n n e r mo n – sat.

7268 Manchester, 314-6468355, waterstreetstl.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

A m e r i ca n .

Café Provencal

Olive + Oak

Weber Grill Restaurant Steaks, seafood, pizzas, and veggies are all cooked on stainless-steel Weber grills inside the restaurant. Reserve booth 335 for a great view of the grills, or relax by the fire pit on the all-season patio. You can also take a class at the on-site Grill Academy, where smoking (of a sort) is allowed in school. L UN C H A m e r i ca n .

A N D D INNE R DA I LY, S UN -

Saint Louis Galleria, 314-930-3838, webergrillrestaurant.com. $$$

DAY B R UN C H .

Yen Ching Chinese. A tribute to grand Americanized Chinese food, Yen Ching beautifully strikes every note: sizzling rice soup, pot stickers, Szechuan beef…

It’s family-friendly, yet bigger and more formal than most Chinese restaurants.

Even when other places are packed, you can almost always get a table. L u n ch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r da i ly.

1012 S. Brentwood, 314-7217507. $$ Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

KIRKWOOD, WEBSTER GROVES, ROCK HILL & DES PERES kwrd Amigos Cantina This fun, informal eatery is perhaps the best margarita bar in town.

You’ll find the usual Mexican offerings, including some excellent fajitas. The lunch specials are tasty, too. The restaurant is often busy and can get loud, so opt for the rear patio (El Porche) if weather permits. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 120 W. Jefferson, 314-821-0877, amigos kirkwood.com. $$ M e x i ca n .

Big Sky Cafe American. The presentations here are among the most artistic in town—they can actually distract diners from the wildly decorated interior. Seasonal menus guarantee return visits. Favorites include the salmon burger

and the passing freight trains. The service is snappy, so Big Sky’s an ideal destination when you have plans for later in the evening. Lunch Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–sun,

47 S. Old Orchard, 314-962-5757, bigskycafe.net. $$$ Sunday brunch.

fr e n ch . Temptations abound at this bastion of civilized French dining in West County. The atmosphere resembles a Burgundy kitchen, with a splendid wine list and exquisite Epi bread. Consider lunch here, with salad Niçoise, croque-madame, or garlicky escargots. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 427 S. Kirkwood, 314-822-5440, cafe provencal.com. $$$

Circa STL A m e r i ca n. It might be the perfect restaurant formula for St. Louis: pairing a museum’s worth of authentic memorabilia with local classics like toasted ravioli, Gerber and Prosperity sandwiches, and Famous-Barr’s French onion soup. LUN C H A N D D INNE R DA I LY. 1090 Old Des Peres, 314-394-1196. $$

Billy G’s Kirkwood

Citizen Kane’s Steakhouse

American. It looks like the Taos Pueblo outside. Inside are burgers the size of your head, decent BBQ, pizzas, and nachos. The bar is comfortable, and the terrace is spacious, with attractive fire pits. It’s a family-type place, though a younger crowd moves in as the night deepens. Lunch and d i n n e r da i ly. 131 W. Argonne, 314-984-8000, billy gskirkwood.com. $$

S t e a k ho u s e . Located in a Victorian house, Citizen Kane’s matches steakhouse luxury with down-home affordability. A delicate char adorns juicy, glistening steaks. Salads and sides reflect a kitchen that’s determined to please. It’s a steak place without the usual accoutrements—but all of the flavor. Dinner Tue–Sun 133 W. Clinton, 314-965-9005, citizenkanes.com. $$$$

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kwrd Cravings Restaurant and Bakery caf é . You might drop in for a cake slathered with that incredible buttercream frosting—but end up dining on risotto, chicken Provençal, and pork tenderloin.

Best known for its catered pastries, Cravings serves excellent food in a quaint, dainty, bright setting.

real secret here is a spectacular meatball sandwich. (Get it on the garlic cheese bread.)

The Rock Hill institution has a spacious new patio and a large banquet space. Lunch

queso con chorizo is not to be missed. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sun. 20 Allen, 314962-4300, milagromodern mexican.com. $$

M o n – Sat, d i n n e r da i ly.

Nachomama’s

9525 Manchester, 314-9620048, farottos.com. $$

M e x i ca n . The décor has a certain roadhouse kitsch.

Parking can be challenging.

Meals are served on Styrofoam. And yet you’ll adore the place. Tex-Mex is served in all its refried, tortillawrapped, fresh salsa–splattered glory. The drive-thru is fast, but you’ll want to get the full dine-in experience.

five star burgers See “Multiple Locations.”

L u n ch T u e – Sat, d i n n e r F r i & Sat. 8149 Big Bend, 314-961-3534, cravings restaurant.info. $$$

crushed red urban bake and chop shop See “Multiple Locations.”

Cyrano’s d e ss e rts / caf é . Once the dessert destination in St. Louis, Cyrano’s has a reputation that remains deservedly formidable.

The dinner menu includes sandwiches and heartier fare: steak frites, pork tenderloin, shrimp Creole…

The vibrant pastels, glittery tiles, and bright lantern lighting make for a pleasant, upbeat atmosphere. Lunch a n d d i n n e r da i ly . 603 E. Lockwood, 314-963-3232, cyranos.com. $$

Daily Bread Bakery and Cafe Panum nostrum was never so delectable. Soups change daily, and particularly extravagant sandwiches change with the seasons.

You can’t miss the cakes, cookies, brownies, and incredible seasonal sour cream breads. Breakfast Café .

and lunch daily, dinner

11719 Manchester, 314-909-0010, thedbcafe. com. $ mon–fri.

dewey’s pizza See “Multiple Locations.”

Gerard’s Restaurant am e r i ca n / i tal i a n . The food is above-average American-Italian fare. The service is good, though leisurely. But Gerard’s boasts one of the greatest wine lists in the Midwest. Enjoy wine?

Eat—and drink—here. D i n n e r M o n – Sat. 1153 Colonnade Center, 314-821-7977, stlgerards.net. $$$

Hacienda Mexican. Fine renditions of Mexican dishes such as chicken mole are served in a delightfully unique setting. Chalet meets estancia—and it’s among the oldest historic structures in the county. The terrace is shaded, boisterous. The bar’s convivial. And did we mention that Hacienda has its own tortilla factory?

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Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r M o n –

9643 Manchester, 314961-9110, nachomamas-stl. com. $ Sat.

daily, brunch Sat & Sun.

9568 Manchester, 314-9426555, katiespizzaandpasta. com. $$

llywelyn’s pub See “Multiple Locations.”

mike duffy’s pub and grill See “Multiple Locations.”

9748 Manchester, 314-9627100, haciendastl.com. $$

j. gilbert’s st e a k ho u s e . It’s a cut above, so to speak, with USDA Prime steaks, a broad-ranging menu, aboveaverage starters and sides, and the most comfortable bar stools in town. Lu n ch M o n – Sat, D i n n e r da i ly.

17A West County Center, 314965-4600 jgilberts.com. $$$$

joe boccardi’s ristorante See “Multiple Locations.”

St. Louis–style pizza is served alongside fish, chicken, and pasta, but the

Ital i a n . The kitchen’s obsessed with assembling pizzas topped with fresh ingredients like figs and dandelion greens. The pastas are even more entertaining, dressed with such splendid ingredients as wild boar ragu and caviar. Much of the fare is garnished with bounty from the patio garden. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r

Lunch and dinner daily.

Farotto’s Pizzeria Ital i a n .

Katie’s Pizza and Pasta

kaldi’s coffee roasting co.

See “Multiple Locations.”

Dining Guide 2016

Nathaniel Reid Bakery

Milagro Modern Mexican M e x i ca n . The beautiful interior make this an attractive restaurant, but Milagro’s take on Mexican fare—wild mushroom quesadillas and chili-spiked smashed potatoes, for instance—elevates it considerably. The margaritas are also excellent, and the

Bakery. World-class pastry chef Nathaniel Reid has opened a dream of a traditional bakery. Light-as-air macarons, fruit and seasonal sweet croissants, cookies, and extraordinary cakes fill the cases, which are replenished throughout the day.

Savories include breakfast and lunch sandwiches, quiche, and salads. BREAKF A S T A N D L A T E L UN C H MON–SAT. 11243 Manchester,

314-858-1019, chefnathaniel reid.com. $ Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

kwrd Nourish by Hollyberry Sit in the compact dining area for lunch, or grab something from the to-go menu. Healthy soups and salads are the norm, with a short list of sandwiches available for healthy eaters. Owner Holly Cunningham is an evangelist of freshness, so all of the veggies are as fresh as possible. Lunch Mon–Sat. 10037 Manchester, 314-8359196, nourishbyhollyberry. com. $ C af é .

Olive+Oak A m e r i ca n . High-voltage chatter about this new place has dominated the local food scene. There’s a constantly changing menu of light snacks and full meals, including the perfect butterscotch pot de crème, as well as inventive mixed drinks.

The service is personable and refreshingly excellent.

DINNER DAILY. 102 W. Lockwood, 314-736-1370, olive andoakstl.com. $$$

800 S. Geyer, 314-909-1375, peppesapt2.com. $$$

pi pizzeria See “Multiple Locations.”

robust See “Multiple Locations.”

Saffron Indian Cuisine I n d i a n . Here you’ll find Northern Indian fare: fistsized samosas, fragrant tandoori, creamy sauces, and exquisite naan bread.

From the outside, it’s strip mall ordinary. Inside, it’s colorful and friendly. The staff is helpful in explaining (and moderating) the spice levels, from mild to rocket fuel explosive. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 2137 Barrett Station, 314-965-3822, saffronstl.net. $$

such creative variations as a Nashville fried chicken slider and the Texican, topped with avocado. Also unexpected: delightful salads, including a butter poached– lobster Cobb. You’ll find community tables, a cozy fire pit, and even volleyball in warm weather. L UN C H A N D D INNE R DA I LY. 9528 Manchester, 314-942-6445, thesliderhouse.com. $

Spencer’s grill diner. Serving Kirkwoodians for nearly 70 years at the same address, Spencer’s finally has all of the things a diner should but usually doesn’t: properly prepared food (like crispy-edged pancakes, perfect hash browns, and freshly baked seasonal pies), snappy service, and owners who keep the place spotless and make sure everybody knows one another.

St. Louis Wing Company A m e r i ca n . More than a dozen sauces are beguiling.

But if the wings aren’t correctly prepared, it doesn’t matter whether it’s basilpesto or Cajun Alfredo.

Fortunately, former finedining chef Bobby Tessler mans the fryer, so the meat here is moist and succulent, with crispy skin. You can mix and match sauces. The fried macaroni wedges are sublime. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r daily. 9816 Manchester, 314962-9464, stlwingco.com. $

Italian. Located in a renovated Victorian home, Peppe’s has “romantic” spilling all over, from the chandeliers to the crisp table linens.

Chef-owner Peppe Profeta’s veal is exceptional, the pasta dishes are house-made, and half-portion options are a nice touch. The wine selection’s also classy. Reservations are a must. Lunch Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–Sat.

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

three kings public house See “Multiple Locations.”

wasabi sushi bar See “Multiple Locations.”

223 S. Kirkwood, 314821-2601. $

This tapas place gets it right. The atmosphere is romantic, with live music on weekends. The menu is reasonably priced.

The plates—baked goat cheese, calamari, smoked Gouda grits—are delicious.

And there’s a lovely wine selection. You’ll nibble, sip, chat, fall in love. L u n ch

Peppe’s Apt. 2

S u sh i /Japa n e s e . Webster’s only non-chain sushi restaurant happens to be a pretty good one, as evidenced by industry types who frequent the place.

The affable owners and an accommodating staff serve up a huge selection of Japanese offerings. Lunch and dinner daily. 29 N. Gore, 314-733-5511, thesushi station.com. $$

daily.

W i n e B ar .

M o n – Sat, d i n n e r da i ly.

The Sushi Station

br e a k fast a n d l u n ch

One 19 North

119 N. Kirkwood, 314-8214119, one19north.com. $$

es. Lunch Tue–Fri, dinner da i ly . 118 W. Adams, 314965-6644, sunset44.com. $$$

Sapore Italian Café Ital i a n . When a restaurant patio is elevated and has a fountain, we’re interested; when the food’s good, we’re regulars. Chef Paul Buzzetta’s parents (who ran Benedetto’s in Frontenac) contribute here as well. We gravitate toward the linguine with seafood (a steal at lunch), and if available, Pauli’s eggplant stack salad and the sauteed sea bass. Lu n ch M o n - F r i , d i n n e r mo n - S at. 451 S. Kirkwood, 314-909-7575, saporeitaliancafé.com. $$$

The Slider House A m e r i ca n . Though the classic burgers are fine, there are also surprises in

Sunset 44 Bistro American. This Kirkwood bistro is the Official Family Restaurant for legions of St. Louisans. The menu is diverse, with items like swordfish and sauerbraten.

Though the atmosphere’s linen and candles, it’s also casual, with a loyal clientele whose members appreciate the personal, clubby touch-

The Wood Cask A m e r i ca n. A somethingfor-everyone menu ranges from an upscale grilled cheese sandwich to a $30plus ribeye steak, with flatbreads and Scotch eggs and lots of other stuff in between. But what do you expect at a place called Wood Cask? Whiskey, of course, and there’s plenty of it here, with more than 70 choices. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch sun. 10332 Manchester, 314-858-1085, thewoodcask.com. $$

Dining Guide 2016

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fwc and entrée portions. And more vino is available in the wine shop. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat, brunch Sun.

1772 Clarkson, 636-4496700, balabanswine.com. $$

Benedetto’s on Main Tony Buzzetta honors the restaurant family’s patriarch with family recipes served in a space with an atmosphere sufficient to make you forget that you’re far from The Hill. Be sure to ask about the nightly specials. LUN C H AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 16721 Main, Wildwood, 636-8213535, benedettostl.com. $$$ Ital i a n .

out the menu. Lu n ch

tue–

14412 Clayton, 636-220-9707, circle7ranch.com. $$ s u n , d i n n e r da i ly.

cooper’s hawk winery & restaurant am e r i ca n. This Chicagobased restaurant/winery hybrid offers a wine-paired menu in a large multi-room space that belies its size. A mandatory stop is the tasting room, where guests learn about— and taste—the broad range of Cooper’s Hawk wine. Lunch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 1146 Town & Country Crossing, 636-489-0059, coopershawk winery.com. $$

Bishop’s Post

Napoli 2

FAR WEST COUNTY fwc Absolute BBQ Indian Wish Grill Indian. Lunch is particularly

worthwhile here, with bargain combinations that offer a variety of the place’s outstanding Indian dishes. The menu’s small, with an emphasis on kebabs and curries. The biryani is extravagant and delicious. This is a welcome, exotic change from most strip mall eateries. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 17409 Chesterfield Airport, 314-200-1111, abarbq. com. $$

Addie’s Thai House T ha i . This haven for lovers of authentic Thai food offers beautiful presentation and fiery dishes. The Waterfall Beef dish is unique to Addie’s, and the deep-fried sweet potatoes with coconut and tom yum gai soup are customer favorites.

L u n ch M o n – Sat, d i n n e r

13441 Olive, 341-4691660, addiesthaihouse.com. $$ daily.

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Annie Gunn’s American. Annie Gunn’s has earned an esteemed spot in the St. Louis culinary lexicon and beyond. Every dish on its traditional American menu— a robust steak, a signature hamburger, a fluffy potato pancake—is approached with passion, creativity, and an eye toward tasteful composition.

Pair that food with a glass of wine from an award-winning list of more than 300 bottles.

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r T u e –

16806 Chesterfield Airport Rd., 636-532-7684, anniegunns.com. $$$$ Sun.

Balaban’s A m e r i ca n . An extensive wine list spans more than 860 offerings, including a Library Wine Collection with 250plus older, vintage varieties.

The contemporary American menu’s influenced by French, Spanish, and Italian cuisine, with small plates, flatbreads,

Dining Guide 2016

A m e r i ca n . Bishop’s Post takes its name from Col. Justus Post, original owner of the land on which it sits, and is grounded in the history of Chesterfield’s beginnings.

Likewise, its menu features classic American dishes: a bounty of chicken, beef, and seafood, including St. Louis– style spare ribs, Maryland crab cakes, smoked Missouri trout, and a spicy andouilleand-seafood gumbo. Complimentary house-made sweet potato chips and an onion dip are a nice treat. Lunch Mon–

dalie’s smokehouse

Sat, dinner daily, brunch

East Coast Pizza

16125 Chesterfield Pkwy.

W, 636-536-9404, bishops post.com. $$$

p i z z a . One of the more underrated pizzerias in the metro region, this sister restaurant to Soulard’s Epic Pizza and Subs features New York–style pies and brick ovens. Large sub sandwiches are built on rolls imported from legendary bakery Amoroso’s in Philadelphia. Lunch and dinner daily. 17304 Chesterfield Airport, 636-5367888, eastcoastpizza.net $

Sun.

charlie gitto’s See “Multiple Locations.”

Circle 7 Ranch Taphouse & Grill B ar & Gr i ll . Circle 7 Ranch is a rustic taphouse and grill featuring personal table taps—the first in Missouri—that allow patrons to pour cold draft beers tableside. The menu offers hearty bar food favorites, with an extensive burger, wrap, sandwich, and salad selection, as well as mac and cheese 11 ways. Unexpected options—corn fritters, dirty fries, and fried pickles—round

barbecue. The team behind Pappy’s and Bogart’s serves up killer ’cue in Valley Park.

Order a slab or a sandwich, add some Papa Joe’s Original sauce, and pair it with a side of hush puppies or Fire and Ice Pickles. lunch and dinner tue–sat, lunch sun.

2951 Dougherty Ferry, 636529-1898, daliessmokehouse. com. $$

dewey’s pizza See “Multiple Locations.”

EdgeWild Restaurant & Winery American. Owned by Andy and Dee Dee Kohn, this wine bar, winery, and restaurant has a certified sommelier and a certified specialist of wine—perhaps no surprise for a place with its own EdgeWild-

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

FWC label wines and dishes accompanied by carefully chosen wine pairings. L u n ch a n d dinner daily, brunch Sun.

550 Chesterfield Center, 636532-0550, edgewildwinery. com. $$$

Gianfabio’s Italian Café Italian. Gianfabio’s offers Italian food bliss: eggplant parmigiana, cannelloni, veal piccata, chicken Marsala, linguine tutto mare… Fresh pizzas come from an open-flame brick oven that separates the dining room from the bar.

L u n ch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r

127 Hilltown Village Center, 636-532-6686, gianfabio.com. $$$ Mon–Sat.

jj twig’s pizza & pub See “Multiple Locations.”

buying more local produce than any chef in town. His new place is a combination to-go gourmet, café sit-down, and boutique local meat–and–produce grocer—or, if you will, a classic “meat and three” with sensational meals. L UN C H A N D E A R LY D INNE R M O N –

15270 Manchester, 636220-3212. $$ SAT.

Manee Thai Thai. Manee serves some of the best Thai food in St. Louis.

The extensive menu includes several unique options, such as northeastern Thai sausage, as well as seasonal dishes like pumpkin red curry, poached pears in red-wine sauce, and homemade pomegranate ice cream. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 481 Lafayette Center, 636-256-8898, maneethaistl.com. $$

joe boccardi’s ristorante See “Multiple Locations.”

joeY b’s

for pho aficionados include the “shaking beef,” sizzling Saigon crepe, and Vietnamese coffee.

We’re also partial to the Vietnamese curry, green papaya salad, and calamari with flash-fried spinach leaves.

And top it off with an Asianinspired cocktail, like the lychee martini. Lunch and d i n n e r mo n – Sat. 14248 Manchester, 636-256-8838. $$

napoli 2 i tal i a n . The notion that great Italian dining is confined to The Hill is dramatically disproven. This Chesterfield restaurant doesn’t miss anything, with elegant décor, gracious service, and a superior wine selection that all focus attention on the menu. Fresh pasta, steaks, and a veal chop the size of Connecticut are combined with classics like eggplant Parmesan and calamari fritti. d i n n e r da i ly. 1054 Town and Country Crossing, 636256-9998, napoli2.com. $$$

See “Multiple Locations.”

John Mineo’s John and Anna Mineo opened the place with just 12 tables more than 40 years ago. Now run by the next generation, Mineo’s feels rich, so eat accordingly—maybe a rack of lamb with an incredibly reduced jus? Lunch Tue–Fri, d i n n e r M o n – S at. 13490 Clayton, 314-434-5244 john mineos.com. $$$$

kaldi’s coffee roasting co.

See “Multiple Locations.”

kimcheese See “Multiple Locations.”

Marcella’s Mia Sorella Italian. Named one of Thril-

list’s “21 Best Italian Restaurants in America,” this sister restaurant to Trattoria Marcella has a contemporary Italian menu centered by housemade pasta, exquisite risotto, and hand-tossed pizza. Even the cheeseburger is exemplary. Lunch Mon–Fri, dinner M o n – Sat. 14426 Clayton, 636-333-1015, miasorellastl. com. $$

llywelyn’s pub See “Multiple Locations.”

mike duffy’s pub and grill

Local Chef Kitchen

See “Multiple Locations.”

A m e r i ca n . Chef Rob Uyemura may be too modest for his own good, having flown too far under the radar for someone who at any given time was

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Monsoon Vietnamese Bistro Menu favorites at this West County haven Vietname se .

pi pizzeria See “Multiple Locations.”

Rock & Brews A m e r i ca n . The local outpost of KISS rockers Gene Simmons’ and Paul Stanley’s 300-seat comfort food and craft beer emporium conjures a family-friendly music event, with concert lighting and rock music videos. One of the tap rooms features only Missouri craft beers. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 17258 Chesterfield Airport, 636-536-2739, rock andbrews.com. $$

Señor Pique M e x i ca n . A solid taco menu’s accompanied by flavorful tilapia ceviche, enchiladas de mole, and grilled steak. Everybody’s favorite Mexican desserts—sopaipillas and fried ice cream—round out the menu. Stop by during the day for $1.99 margaritas.

Nippon Tei

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r t u e –

Japanese fusion and a full sushi menu are served in an upscale modern atmosphere. Specialties include soft-shell crab, saltbaked shrimp, and spicy bay scallops with eggplant. The house-made miso dressing with the mixed greens house salad is exquisite. L u n ch

sun.

Tue–Fri, dinner Tue–Sun.

See “Multiple Locations.”

14025 Manchester, 636-3868999, nippontei-stl.com. $$$

Table Three

j apa n e s e .

Ital i a n .

is superb, as is the wine list.

Dinner Mon–Sat. 75 Forum Center, 314-878-1274. $$$

the original pancake house See “Multiple Locations.”

Paul Manno’s Café Ital i a n . E f f o r t l e s s l y elegant, this upscale Italian restaurant serves house specialties like pasta della Nonna and the Sunday gravy pasta special. The romantic, softly lit setting includes classic 1950s jazz and photos of Italian-American celebrities. Tableside service

14870 Manchester, 636394-3455, senorpique.com. $$

the shack See “Multiple Locations.”

spiro’s See “Multiple Locations.”

sugarfire smoke house

american. Although Table Three might be best known for its large patio, the interior is equally cozy. Begin with Parmesan truffle frites and tempura green beans, then debate the short but appealing selection of main courses. l u n ch t u e – sat, d i n n e r

16765 Main, Wildwood, 636-458-4333, tablethree.com. $$$ Mon–Sat.

the tavern kitchen & Bar See “Multiple Locations.”

Dining Guide 2016

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45

fwc tucker’s place

and pasta. On Monday nights, kids eat for free, which should either be a warning or an invitation. B r e a k fast S u n -

See “Multiple Locations.”

Veritas gateway to food and wine

day, l u n ch da i ly, d i n -

Buy wine in the store, and drink it with dinner in the restaurant.

Chef Mathis Stitt’s creative menu changes with the seasons. Then, retire to Mustard’s Bar to finish that wine. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r T u e – Sat. 15860 Fountain, 636-227-6800, veritasgate way.com. $$$

515 S. Main, St. Charles, 636-493-9303, braddens.vpweb.com. $$

A m e r i ca n .

n e r M o n – Sat.

Bristol Seafood Grill See “Multiple Locations.”

Bugatti’s Steak & Pasta Steakhouse. Tableside service is a dying art, but not at Bugatti’s. Order the monster Prime Tomahawk ribeye for two and then the Chocolate Implosion for dessert. We call it dinner and a show. (Not quite that hungry? Bugatti’s offers half-size “tasting” portions.) D INNE R T UE – S UN .

1 Ameristar, 636-940-4471, ameristar.com/st-charles/ bugattis. $$$$

Vito’s in the Valley Italian. Chef Gianfranco Munna serves up pizzas, pasta, and calzones, plus steak and seafood selections. The stellar wine list is focused on Sicilian wines. d i n n e r mo n – sat.

138 Chesterfield Towne Center, 636-536-3788, vitos inthevalley.com. $$

Asia

st. charles & Beyond

walnut grill See “Multiple Locations.”

wasabi sushi bar See “Multiple Locations.”

SCb

Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro

Asia

This upscale chain offers house-made pasta, brick-oven pizzas, and sustainably sourced seafood.

With limestone walls and pillars, a mosaic-tile floor, and sconce lighting, Ya Ya’s is impressive both inside and out. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly, bru n ch S u n. 15601 Olive, 636-537-9991, yayasstl. com. $$$

Asian. Chinese and Vietnam-

ese specialties are featured at this 80-seater, located just off the casino floor. Start with the Szechuan Wontons, follow by the Sizzling Black Pepper Beef. Note that every entrée is paired with sake—a winning combo. DINNER DAILY. 1 Ameristar, St. Charles, 636949-7777, ameristar.com/ st-charles/asia. $$

w i n e bar . Tapas-type nibbles and a wonderful wine list make this a splendid evening destination in old-town St. Charles. The cozy brickwalled interior with its fireplace and the beautiful, intimate patio also make it a natural gathering spot. Don’t miss the fondue or the cobbler desserts—or some fine wine flights. L u n ch F r i & Sat,

Yori

BC’s Kitchen

dinner tue–sun, brunch

Japanese. The set lunch is

Bill Cardwell’s beautifully prepared fare impresses. The setting is sleek and contemporary, roomy and relaxed. Sample the inventive cocktails; don’t fill up on the magnificent onion ring and Saratoga chips appetizer.

sun. 325 S. Main, St. Charles,

e u rop e a n .

appealing, affordable, and enormous. There are garlicky bulgogi and kalbi ribs, as well as spicy stews. Rice sizzles in hot stone bowls.

Insiders crave the pork bone soup and whole fried fish.

Banchan sides change regularly. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT, DINNER SUN. 1637 Clarkson, 636-536-7778. $$$

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A m e r i ca n .

Lunch and dinner daily.

11 Meadows Circle, Lake Saint Louis, 636-542-9090, bill cardwell.com/bcs.html. $$$

Dining Guide 2016

Bella Vino Wine Bar & Tapas

636-724-3434, bellavino winebarstl.com. $$

dewey’s pizza See “Multiple Locations.”

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill A m e r i ca n . The moniker “polished casual” is apropos at the first Missouri location of the popular 40-unit chain.

Imbibers are lured by the Firebar’s waterfall of backlit liquor bottles and the signature $10 pineapple-infused martini ($5 at happy hour); diners succumb to the signature Durango Burger, fresh seafood, and the reasonably priced bleu-cheese fillet, all cooked on an oakand fruitwood- burning grill.

Lunch and dinner daily .

1501 Beale, 636-866-0984, st-charles.firebirdsrestaurants .com. $$$$

Fratelli’s Ristorante Braddens Restaurant Eating your way down St. Charles’ old Main Street will have you stopping at this informal eatery in a historic location. The worthy menu consists of sandwiches and wraps, plus a few steaks American.

Italian. From the Tuscany vista murals to the scratchmade sauces, it doesn’t get more “St. Louis Italian.” The ambience is all about family; not only do the staff know you, but they also know your Uncle Max—and his weird new girl-

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

scb friend. It’s affordable, enjoyable, and dependably good.

L u n ch M o n – F r i , d i n n e r

2061 Zumbehl, 636949-9005, fratellisristorante. com. $$ da i ly.

agreeable surprises, such as the “lemosa” and the fabled Toll House pie. B r e a k fast

spiro’s

Thai Kitchen

See “Multiple Locations.”

Tue–Sat, lunch Tue–Sun.

Stone Soup Cottage

837 First Capitol, St. Charles, 636-946-4202, missaimeeb. com. $

American. SLM’s 2010 Restaurant of the Year boasts the area’s only prix fixe, no-choice, one-seating menu. It’s built around ingredients grown on the beautiful farm on which the restaurant sits. After all this time, Stone Soup remains the must-try (and then must-make-reservations-andreturn) spot for destination dining. That reminds us: It’s time to head back for dinner.

D i n n e r th u – S at. 5809 Highway N, Cottleville, 636244-2233, stonesoupcottage. com. $$$$

T ha i . The Thai dumplings are inspired, and the panang curries are suitably incendiary. While the atmosphere is strip-mall informal, the cuisine is admirably represented.

Lunch is often crowded; go for a leisurely dinner, which should include a spicy beef salad. And finish things with an addictive Thai coffee.

Hendricks BBQ Barbecue. It’s a feast for the eyes, ears, and palate. There’s a rustic roadhouse vibe upstairs, a blues bar downstairs, a massive patio overlooking the Katy Trail, and exceptional barbecue. First-timers should opt for a combo; consider a hearty plate of tender beef brisket, decadent ribbons of pulled pork, and oh-so-moist turkey. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 1200 S. Main, St. Charles, 636-724-8600, hendricksbbq.com. $$

jj twig’s pizza & pub See “Multiple Locations.”

Plank Road Pizza Pizza . Bespoke pizzas are worth the drive to Cottleville, the little burg that’s become a dining destination. The setting is enjoyable: rustic meets pizzeria. It’s informal, with enticingly fresh ingredients, folksy service, and no-frills simplicity. And the patio is ideal during nice weather.

Lewis and Clark’s

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r T u e –

American. Expect bustling

Sun.

crowds here, especially on weekends. Why? It offers a charmingly restored 18thcentury space, a delightful second-story patio, and superior pub fare, as well as Missouri wines and a fine lemon drop martini. If you’re shopping or wandering old St. Charles, try lunch here for a somewhat quieter experience.

Lunch and dinner daily.

217 S. Main, St. Charles, 636947-3334, lewisandclarks restaurant.com. $$

5 212 Highway N, Cottleville, 636-477-6155, plankroadpizza.com. $$

Prasino A m e r i ca n . Eat for a week here, and you’ll still be trying to figure it out: The menu bounces from sushi to tacos, barbecued short ribs to lamb sirloin… Each dish has a terrific presentation. The atmosphere’s easygoing yet sleek, with a sizable craft beer selection. There’s a patio, and memorable design makes even the interior seem “outside.”

llywelyn’s pub

lunch and dinner daily,

See “Multiple Locations.”

br u n ch sat & s u n . 1520 S. Fifth, St. Charles, 636-2770202, prasinostcharles.com. $$$

mcgurk’s public house See “Multiple Locations.”

Miss Aimee B’s Tea Room & Gallery caf é . Think civilized dining

in a circa-1865 house, with local artwork and tables set with quiches, sandwiches, fabulous breakfast specialties, and flavored lattes. It’s enormously popular for parties and showers. Sure, it’s a bit “precious.”

Mind, though, some subtle, Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

The Rack House West Winery w i n e bar . Panini, flatbreads, and bar bites match an expansive wine list in a spacious tasting room that fronts for an “urban winery.”

And a cigar lounge is attached.

Lunch and dinner daily.

5065 Highway N, Cottleville, 636-244-0574, rackhouse. westwinery.com. $

sugarfire smoke house See “Multiple Locations.”

Sunisa’s Thai Restaurant T ha i . Working your way through Sunisa’s extensive menu is a rewarding tour of Thai cuisine. There are complex flavors, fresh ingredients, and exotic preparations.

Specialties include thick rad na noodles and sweet black sticky rice. Homey service and solicitous attention make Sunisa’s a perfect place for families or couples. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 6057 Mid Rivers Mall, St. Peters, 636-922-4888. $$

Sushi Sen Japa n e s e /S u sh i . Among the top tier of local Japanese eateries, this familyrun restaurant is relaxed.

Ignore the sushi rolls that you can get anywhere.

Instead, go for splendid, expertly presented sashimi, grilled yellowtail jaw, or tempura—presented as it’s meant to be: crisp, greaseless, and awesomely fresh. Sushi Sen is located in an out-of-theway strip mall, but it’s well worth the trip. Lu n ch a n d dinner Mon–Sat. 161 Civic Center, Lake Saint Louis, 636561-4449. $$

lunch and dinner daily.

3899 Veteran’s Memorial, Ste. B, St. Peters, 626-447-1883, thaikitchenstpeters.com. $$

The Tattooed Dog am e r i ca n . Though no dogs are actually tattooed there, this quirky burger-andsandwich joint in Wentzville is still notable. It’s fun, with imaginative offerings like the gargantuan bacon-topped Porkonator, as well as more predictable dishes like fried chicken and apple pancakes. A fine craft beer selection offers numerous pours that go perfectly with the signature pico fromage. Lunch and dinner T u e – Sat. Moving at press time, see website for details, thetattooeddog.com. $

Tom+Chee A m e r i ca n. Tom+Chee explores the many ways you can put cheese to bread and grill it, along with meats, hummus, pesto… Design your own testament to this American favorite—and accompany it with tomato soup or a salad.

Or try the legendary grilled cheese doughnuts of story and song. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r daily. 1280 State Highway K, O’Fallon, 636-294-9800, tomandchee.com. $

Tony’s on Main Street italian. A fixture in historic St. Charles, it’s a place that manages to put out superior food while maintaining a neighborhood-joint feel.

The menu includes chicken Modiga and crab legs, as well as pizzas and burgers. Brick walls lend a rustic atmo-

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ME sphere. Families, couples, and after-work flocks all gather here. Lunch Tue–Sat, dinner Tue–Sun. 132 N. Main, St. Charles, 636-940-1960, tonysonmain.com. $$$

stuffed turnovers. Though the beef gets top billing, consider the outstanding seafood dishes. Multiple rooms range from spacious to intimate. It’s folksy, bright—and a perfect destination for dinner. D i n n e r M o n – S at. 6805 Old Collinsville, O’Fallon, Ill., 618632-4866, andrias.com. $$$$

Trailhead Brewing Co. A m e r i ca n . This brewpub is airy and light during the day, romantically shadowy at night. It’s the perfect place for dinner or a drink before a leisurely stroll down South Main Street. The on-site brewery turns out superior suds. Burgers and specialty sandwiches are served in one of the city’s most delightfully restored vintage spaces.

BEAST Craft BBQ Co. barb e c u e . Owner David Sandusky barbecues with focused intensity. It pays off with killer slabs, thick pork steaks that are tender to the bone, crazy-good chicken, and sausages that bite with a juicy snap. He only uses the best fresh ingredients, adheres to the standards, and serves food that’s “all killer, no filler.”

L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 921 S. Riverside, St. Charles, 636-946-2739, trailheadbrewing.com. $$

Tucano’s Brazilian Grill so u th am e r i ca n . This small chain of restaurants has successfully created a Brazilian-themed churrasco steakhouse priced well below the competition and featuring a dozen skewered proteins served tableside. A substantial salad bar includes three soups—and fried bananas.

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r M o n –

1520 S. Fifth, St. Charles, 636-724-4499, tucanos.com. $$$ Sat.

VB Chocolate Bar caf é . You can easily miss it, tucked away in Cottleville.

The cozy, intimate spot serves specialty coffees, beer, and ice cream, as well as house-made pastries and staggeringly good candies.

The “adult hot chocolate” is a winter treat; in warmer weather, sit on the best patio around for enjoying desserts.

HOURS VARY. 5326 Highway N, Cottleville, 636-352-1139, vbchocolatebar.com. $

Walnut Grill See “Multiple Locations.”

wasabi sushi bar See “Multiple Locations.”

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Lunch and dinner daily.

20 S. Belt West, Belleville; 618-257-9000; beastcraft bbq.com. $$

Andria’s Countryside

Cleveland–Heath

metro east me 1818 Chophouse

up and go find out. Lu n ch

See “Multiple Locations.”

Mon–Fri, dinner Mon–

4204 Main Street Brewery

Sat. 130 Ludwig, Fairview Heights, 618-394-1800, agostinosrestaurant.com. $$$

bar & g r i ll . Grab a seat by the outdoor fire pit. Order a malty German Alt, one of 4204’s many fine brews, and a ribeye that matches it perfectly. Be sure to add some fried pickles. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 4204 W. Main, Belleville, 618-416-7261, mainstreetbrewingco.com. $$$

Agostino’s Italian Restaurant Classic fare—veal, steaks, fettuccine, and farfalle—are served in a romantic atmosphere. The stemware sparkles. The linens are crisp. The presentations are as impeccable as the service. It compares with any St. Louis ristorante. You’ve always wondered what’s in Fairview Heights; dress Italian

Andria’s Countryside Steakhouse . The highestgrade steaks in the metro area meet the grill at this odd but delightful place. Andria’s is odd in that it’s a converted ranch-style house. It’s delightful in that the steaks and sides are extraordinary.

Don’t forget to check out the oft-overlooked Lounge menu. D i n n e r M o n – S at.

7415 Highway 143, Edwardsville, 618-656-0281, andrias countryside.com. $$$$

Andria’s Restaurant S t e a k ho u s e . Another family-run gem in a beautiful old home, Andria’s Restaurant makes things special with simple touches such as hot bread and bacon–blue cheese–

A m e r i ca n . Warning: The deviled eggs here are potentially addicting. Limit yourself, and concentrate on the ever-changing seasonal menu.

Housed in a 1930s-era building, Cleveland–Heath is one of the most popular restaurants in the Metro East. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so eat either Midwestern early or big-city late to avoid a long wait. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 106 N. Main, Edwardsville, 618-307-4830, clevelandheath.com. $$$

dewey’s pizza See “Multiple Locations.”

Dreamland Palace G e rma n . You probably can’t pronounce half of the items on the menu here, but it’s fun to try. Dreamland Palace is the place for German fare, a tchotchke-laden space where cafeteria meets hofbrau. The food’s authentic, and the beer is nearly as cold as the frosted mugs.

A perfect spot for larger groups, the atmosphere is

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ME lively and loud. Vergnügen!

Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r W e d –

3043 Highway 156, Waterloo, Ill., 618-939-9922, dreamlandpalace.net. $$ Sun.

Fletcher’s Kitchen & Tap Pastas, burgers, and sandwiches are served in a loud, friendly atmosphere.

You’ll sniff the hickory smoke a block away; the grilled ribs and thick burgers are as good as they smell. Don’t miss the grilled zucchini. Lunch and dinner daily. 6101 W. Main, Belleville, 618-239-3317, fletcherskitchen.com. $$ American.

Gallagher’s American. Paying homage to the crispy browned bird, this comfortable Waterloo classic is a repository of local architectural details, with vintage doors, railings, and more. A wide-ranging menu includes premium steaks and a “candied bacon cheeseburger.” L u n ch a n d d i n n e r T u e – S u n . 114 W. Mill, Waterloo, 618-939-9933, gallagherswaterloo.com. $$$

gulf shores restaurant & grill See “Multiple Locations.”

Hick’s BBQ B arb e c u e . A vinegary Carolina-type sauce “with a kick” dominates at this small, rustic, inevitably packed joint.

The wait is worth it. The ribs are excellent, the brisket is properly moist and tender, and the pork sandwiches are decadently overstuffed. Oh, and don’t miss the homemade potato chips. Though the frills are few, this is serious barbecue. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r T u e – S u n . 609 S. Illinois, Belleville, 618-234-7427, hicksbbqcompany.com. $$

J Fires’ Market Bistro A m e r i ca n . A beautifully restored Victorian home is transformed into unexpected dining elegance in the fields of

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Waterloo. The menu tilts toward Cajun: étouffée, gumbo, and boudin. Surprises such as lamb and whole fish keep things interesting. The vineentwined patio is splendid for warm-weather dining. Dinner Wed –Sun, brunch Sun. 725 N. Market, Waterloo, 618939-7233, jfires.com. $$

joe boccardi’s ristorante See “Multiple Locations.”

Lascelles Granite City A m e r i ca n . This chefinspired restaurant is housed in a century-old bank building. Menu items with simple descriptions give way to thoughtful plate presentations. In the beer garden out back, pair a steak of the month with one of a dozen craft brews. Lunch and dinner M o n – Sat. 1324 Niedringhaus, Granite City, 618-7097375, lascellesgc.com. $$

best lime-spiked guacamole around. Lunch and dinner daily. 3121 Collinsville, East St. Louis, 618-271-8168. $

mr. curry’s india restaurant See “Multiple Locations.”

Mike Shannon’s Grill A m e r i ca n. Mike Shannon once played for some local team—there’s a couple (hundred) memorabilia reminders decorating this stylish steakhouse. You can order burgers and fries or excellent steaks and seafood. TV screens show every sporting event in the world. The upside-down apple pie should receive your complete dessert attention. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch sun. 871 S. Arbor Vitae, Edwardsville, 618-655-9911, mikeshannons grill.com. $$$

peel wood fired pizza See “Multiple Locations.”

the Mansion restaurant An elegant, perfectly restored 1857 Italianate mansion hosts perhaps the most formal dining in the region. Reservations are vital. Everything is perfect and decorous, with effortlessly polished service. Steaks, pasta, seafood, lamb chops, duck— every meal is an artistic statement. Dress up, straighten up, and enjoy what “fine dining” really means. D i n n e r T u e – S at. 1680 Mansion Way, O’Fallon, Ill., 618-624-0629, mansionsteakhouse.com. $$$ A m e r i ca n .

Mi Tierra Tienda y Taqueria The taqueria is there—really. A tiny space with a couple of tables in the back of a Mexican grocery, Mi Tierra serves delicious tacos: lengua, juicy al pastor, and carne asada, with just the right prickle of cilantro and chopped onions. Torta buns are stuffed with grilled steak.

Don’t forget an order of the M e x i ca n .

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Thai House Thai. When an unassuming Asian joint in a small town attracts customers from around the region (and beyond), it’s noteworthy. When standards like pad thai, tom yum soup, and even crab rangoon draw near-universal raves, it’s visit-worthy. And when a couple can dine there for less than $30, return trips get planned. L u n ch a n d dinner daily. 109 S. Main, Columbia, Ill., 618-281-2777, columbiathaihouse.com. $$

Wang Gang Asian Eats A s i a n. First-timers should consult the staff here. The menu boasts a tantalizing but bewildering collection of Asian-influenced dishes: stir fries, noodles, and sandwiches. The emphasis is on bold flavors and creative interpretations of foods from all over the East. L u n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 1035 Century, Edwardsville, 618-655-0888, wanggangasian.com. $$

Seven Sushi Bar s u sh i . Simple, nearly austere, and small, this sushiya excels in its particularly extensive menu of toppings.

Prices are reasonable. Housespecial rolls are inventive.

Lunch specials are varied and affordable. Open until 2 a.m., Seven is a late-night favorite.

Lunch and dinner daily.

28 E. Main, Belleville, 618277-6702. $$

Social Gastropub american. Come for the 20 or so draft beers. Stay for a oftchanging menu that includes sandwiches and lobster rolls.

If you used to visit the raucous bar Shenanigans in the same space, you’ll be stunned at what the owners have done with the place. Lu n ch a n d dinner tue–sat, changes

2 157 Center, Edwardsville, 618-692-5156, socialgastropub.com. $$ seasonally.

sugo’s spaghetteria See “Multiple Locations.”

wasabi sushi bar See “Multiple Locations.”

Who Dat’s Southern Food ca j u n / cr e ol e . W h o Dat’s is a spicy slice of New Orleans—with gooey butter cake for dessert. Portions of jambalaya, étouffée, and gumbo are indulgent. The feel is pure family-style Cajun, with superior NOLA fare and Abita beer. Lunch and dinn e r T u e – Sat. 123 S. Main, Columbia, 618-281-2229, whodatsrestaurant.com. $

The Wine Tap w i n e bar . An impeccable wine menu is the draw, but a roofed patio and 80 craft beers don’t hurt. Sit near the outdoor oven and order baked Brie with a Rombauer Chardonnay. Dinner T u e – sat, lu n ch Sat. 223 E. Main, Belleville, 618-2399463, thewinetapbelleville. com. $$

ML 535-5100; 146 W. Lockwood, 314-918-7900; theblock restaurant.com. $$

Bristol Seafood Grill S e afood. What feels like a steakhouse is actually a first-class seafood restaurant. The fish is fresh, the sides are attractive, and the service is polished. The lobster bisque might even have healing powers. The Sunday brunch buffet is legendary, with a staggering array of seafood, omelets, meats, waffles, and salads. Lunch Mon– Fri, dinner daily, brunch

11801 Olive, 314-5670272; 2314 Technology, 636- 625- 6350; bristol seafoodgrill.com. $$$ S u n.

Charlie Gitto’s

Drunken Fish

multiple locations ml

1818 Chophouse S t e a k ho u s e . Options abound at this upscale eatery. Go all out with a bone-in Delmonico, midrange with the brown sugar–brined chicken, or casual with the lobster BLT with egg.

Tip: The patio has comfy, deeply cushioned chairs.

Italian specialties, seafood, fine meats, pastas, risotto, sandwiches, and St. Louis– style pizzas with Provel cheese. Lu n ch mo n – fr i , d i n n e r da i ly. 2103 Sulphur, 314-644-2266; 5914 S. Lindbergh, 314-487-4545; bartolinosrestaurants.com. $$$

L u n ch T u e – Sat, d i n n e r

The Block

210 S. Buchanan, Edwardsville, Ill., 618-307-9300; 1405 N. Green Mount, O’Fallon, Ill.; 1818chophouse.com. $$$$

American. “Meat-friendly” hardly covers it. The place has its own meat-for-sale butchery, just in case the braised pork, beef ribs, and bacon jam aren’t enough.

The thick-cut bacon in the to-go case at the Webster location is as good as any in town. And on a nice day, consider the patio at the CWE location. ho u rs vary by location. 33 N. Sarah, 314-

Tue–Sun, brunch Sun.

Bartolino’s Ital i a n . B a r t o l i n o ’s opened in 1969 on The Hill.

Today, two locations—one in South County and another in a Drury Inn in South City—serve a classic menu of

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Ital i a n . Classic Italian simultaneously accommodates dressing up and dressing down. The eggplant Napoleon is a wonder of culinary architecture, and Nunzio—as in Gitto’s signature veal dish—is apparently Italian for Oscar. hours vary by location. 5226 Shaw, 314-772-8898; Hollywood Casino, 314-770-7663; 15525 Olive, 636-536-2199; charliegittos.com. $$$

particular. Breakfast and lunch daily. 9781 Clayton, 314-218-2280; 2331 Schuetz, 314-627-5262; companionstl. com. $

Crushed Red Urban Bake and Chop Shop Pizza . It’s not really a stolen car kind of chop shop.

Here, individual pizzas are built to order, along with tasty chopped salads. The atmosphere is informal, happy, and convivial; the ingredients are flawless and delicious. Just don’t ask about aftermarket carburetors. Lunch and dinner daily. 8007 Maryland, 314725-8007; 140 S. Kirkwood, 314-238-0100; 11635 Olive, 314-942-3000; crushedred.com. $

Dewey’s Pizza P i z za . This gourmet pizza chain serves inventive specialty pizzas, as well as seasonal offerings. Rotating craft beers are on tap, with an emphasis on local breweries. A full wine list includes Dewey’s own line from Novy Family Wines.

L u n ch M o n – fr i , d i n n e r daily. See website for loca-

tions, deweyspizza.com. $$

Drunken Fish Japanese/Sushi. The Ballpark Village location is so close to Busch Stadium, you’ll need to watch for foul balls. In the CWE, everyone eventually passes its location at Maryland and Euclid. Though sushi gets the most attention, consider the donburi, bowls filled with rice and generous toppings of chicken or fish.

Companion café

Lunch and dinner daily.

This p erennial lunch favorite serves fresh breads, daily soups, and fresh ingredients in a light, airy café loaded with charm and hospitality. The cowboy chili with cornbread is tasty.

And no meal is complete without dessert, cookies in

See website for locations, drunkenfish.com. $$$

C af é .

Five Star Burgers A m e r i ca n . Former Harvest owner Steve Gont r a m’s f a m i l y - f r i e n d l y burger outpost whips up meat-eating perfection,

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ML alongside a stellar selection of locally focused craft beer and wine. All manner of burgers—beef, bison, and lamb—are served with such toppings as fried eggs, green chilies, and entertaining sauces. L u n ch a n d d i n ner daily. 8125 Maryland, 314-720-4350; 312 S. Kirkwood, 314-394-2250; 11621 Olive, 314-942-6450; 5star burgersstl.com. $$

JJ Twig’s Pizza & Pub With three area locations, JJ Twig’s has a well-established clientele.

Order the signature Double-Decker, which allows customers to build two layers of toppings for the monstrous double-crust pie. pizza.

Lunch and dinner daily.

2964 Dougherty Ferry, 636225-9944; 5600 Hampton, 314-833-6700; 1090 Tom Ginnever, O’Fallon, Mo., 636379-4446; jjtwigsstl.com. $$

Joe Boccardi’s Ristorante Italian. There’s an extensive menu of Italian favorites for lunch and dinner, but pizza remains the top seller.

Try traditional choices such as Joe’s Special Original or the meat-laden Raffaele.

Gioia’s Deli

Lunch and dinner daily.

Oil tanker–size sandwiches, including the legendary Hot Salami, are the attraction at the downtown location whose roots stretch back nearly a century to The Hill. Build your own, or go with a classic such as the Porknado or Hogfather.

Regulars appreciate the many specialty sodas. hours vary by locat i o n . 1934 Macklind; 903 Pine; 314776-9410; gioiasdeli.com. $

8556 Watson, 314-849-7976; 117 S. Main, Columbia, Ill., 618-281-6700; 128 Boccardi, Eureka, 636-938-6100; 958 Brookwood Center, Fenton , 636-326-2563; joeboccardis.com. $$

American.

Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill cajun/creole . Étouffées, jambalaya, and po’ boys are all deliciously authentic here. The atmosphere is New Orleans–meets–college bar—but with better food. Live music and daily drink specials add to the fun.

Weekends demand reservations. Don’t miss the Eggs Chesapeake, poached eggs atop crab cakes atop English muffins. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch sun. 12528 Olive, 314-878-3306; 215 Harvard , Edwardsville, Ill ., 618-650 -9109; gulf shoresrestaurantandgrill. com. $$$

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Joey B’s Bar & Grill. A big menu of appetizers, burgers, wings, sandwiches, and even steak modiga keeps crowds coming back. The pizza is remarkably satisfying for a spot that doesn’t focus on it. And don’t miss the tower of hand-breaded onion rings. L u n ch and dinner daily. 710 N. Second, 314-621-9570, joeybslanding.com; 2524 Hampton, 314-645-7300, joeybshill.com; 189 Concord Plaza, 314843-2121, joeybsconcord. com , 14445 Manchester, 636-527-5639; joeybs manchester.com. $$

Kaldi’s Coffee Roasting Co. Café . The metro area’s largest third-wave coffee roaster serves up a range of handbrewed, drip, and espresso coffee drinks and teas,

Dining Guide 2016

alongside a tasty selection of breakfast and lunch items.

Vegetarian options abound. In addition to locations in Clayton, Kirkwood, and Chesterfield, Kaldi’s menu is served at Kayak’s in U. City. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Visit website for locations, kaldiscoffee.com. $ daily.

KimCheese k or e a n . A wildly popular lunch spot for nearby workers in Chesterfield and Creve Coeur, Kimcheese effortlessly handles crowds. The décor looks Korean country. The menu combinations are unexpected but delicious, with such dishes as pork-belly tacos and burritos plump with Korean BBQ beef, kimchi, rice, and beans. The kalbi burger is amazing. Lu n ch a n d d i n ner daily. 10441 Olive, 314569-4123; 13435 Olive, 314485-1408; kimcheese.net. $

Llywelyn’s Pub B ar & Gr i ll . It’s boisterously happy—and not just because of that beer menu that’s longer than a Stephen King novel. It’s suitably pub-ish, with old brick and dark wood. Llywelyn’s serves as a headquarters for all things Celtic in St. Louis. Visit the website for hours and locations, llywelynspub.com. $$

McGurk’s bar & grill. Chunky Guinness stew steaming in a bread bowl. Live maudlin music.

Corned beef and cabbage.

Yeah, it’s Irish and a pub.

What distinguishes the Soulard spot, however, is a huge outdoor garden with fountains and the traditional Irish music. In O’Fallon, there’s also a giant bar and relaxed patio. hours vary by location.

1200 Russell, 314-776-8309, mcgurks.com; 108 S. Main, O’Fallon, 636-978-9640, mcgurkspublichouse.com. $$

Mike Duffy’s Pub and Grill Bar & Grill . It’s like your Uncle Mike’s basement rathskeller—only with a more attractive clientele.

Duffy’s is a classic neighborhood St. Louis sports bar, with sandwiches, wings, pizza, and TVs everywhere.

Myriad burger varieties are available on the “Burger Heaven” menu. HOURS VARY B Y L O C AT I O N . 124 W. Jefferson, 314-821-2025; 6662 Clayton, 314-644-3700; 1024 Woods Mill Plaza, 636394-8855; mikeduffys.com. $

Lombardo’s Ital i a n . Classic and cultivated, this longtime local favorite offers urbane Italian dining. The veal is wonderful, and pasta portions are generous. The atmosphere’s formal, like a private club, yet convivial. It’s the perfect date destination. The lunch menu’s Italian sausage sandwich is the best in town. hours vary by location. 10488 Natural Bridge, 314-429-5151; 201 S. 20th, 314-621-0666; lombardos restaurants.com. $$$

Mission Taco Joint M e x i ca n . The specialties here are house-made corn tortillas and authentic Mexican street food reminiscent of the offerings in San Francisco’s Mission District. Carne asada fries and brisket birria are also

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

ml notable. And Mission Taco is a great spot for a handcrafted cocktail, with 100 percent fresh-squeezed (in-house) juices. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 6235 Delmar, 314932-5430; 908 Lafayette, 314-858-8226; 398 N. Euclid, 314-930-2955; mission tacojoint.com. $

Mr. Currys India Restaurant I ndi an. Housed in another repurposed house in Illinois, Mr. Currys is a home for northern Indian fare. The food is delicious, with a choice of heat levels, and the Sunday buffet is a bargain. Curries, biryani, and masalas are all glorious—and the southern Indian dosa are fat and flavorful. hours vary by locat i o n . 612 Olive, 314-241-2877; 7403 Marine, Edwardsville, 618-692-3892; mrcurrys.com. $

The Pasta House Co. For four decades, this St. Louis pasta chain has been a go-to for favorite Italian dishes, such as pasta con broccoli, fettuccine Alfredo, eggplant Parmigiana, cannelloni, chicken Marsala, cheesy garlic bread, and toasted ravioli. Pizza, burgers, and sandwiches are also available. Take note of all-youcan-eat pasta Mondays and kids-eat-free Sundays.

Italian.

Lunch and dinner daily.

See website for locations, pastahouse.com. $$

Peel Wood Fired Pizza The aroma coming from that oven makes waiting for a table a delicious agony. The pizzas are topped with innovative ingredients: BBQ pork, duck sausage, roasted sweet potatoes… In O’Fallon, there’s an entire brewpub upstairs; at the Edwardsville location, the patio is enjoyable. Lunch and dinner daily. 921 S. Arbor Vitae, Edwardsville, 618-659-8561; 104 S. Cherry, O’Fallon, Ill., 618-726-2244; peelpizza.com. $$

fast and Lunch Tue–Sun.

8817 Ladue, 314-932-1340; 17000 Chesterfield Airport, 636-536-4044; original pancakehousestlouis.com. $ Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

a n d d i n n e r da i ly.

Picasso’s Coffee House

Robust

Now with two locations, Picasso’s has become the go-to coffee house in St. Charles for a variety of reasons: coffee sourced from different roasters, wine and craft beer, rotating displays of local art, occasional live music, excellent food, and a passionate staff.

w i n e bar . In many cases, tapas has become synonymous with “overpriced little plates.” Not at Robust. Exquisite cheeses and cured meats are matched with an extraordinary wine list. hours vary by location. 635 Washington, 314-287-6300; 227 W. Lockwood, 314-963-0033; robustwinebar.com. $$

Caf é .

Hours vary by location.

101 N. Main, 636-925-2911; 1650 Beale, 636-410-8348; picassoscoffeehouse.com. $

P i z za .

The Original Pancake House A m e r i ca n. Get in line (or check in early on the NoWait app). Even weekday mornings here are packed. The reason: fluffy flapjacks, golden clouds of hash browns, sunrises of eggs. It’s a whole morning of happiness on a plate. The Dutch Baby is a pancake bowl of lemon tart, a powdered sugar–covered tribute to breakfast. Break-

Manchester, 314-966-8080; 610 Washington, 314-5887600; 14870 Clayton, 636527-5070; pi-pizza.com. $$

Pirrone’s Pizzeria P i z z a . Rectangular thincrust pies are made fresh, from the dough to the toppings. Sandwiches, pastas, salads, and more are available, too. Lunch and dinner daily. 1775 Washington, 314-8393633; 299 Salt Lick, St. Peters, 636-278-3800; pirronespizza. com. $$

The Post Sports Bar and Grill B ar & Gr i ll . A haven for sports fans, The Post has an extensive appetizer menu.

“Post-Its” come in three varieties: garlic cheesebread bites, bacon chicken ranch, and pepperoni pizza.

The rest of the hefty menu includes pub-friendly salads, soups, pizza, sandwiches, and wraps. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 7372 Manchester, 314-645-1109; 763 Old Ballas, 314-736-1205; thepostsportsbar.com. $

Pi Pizzeria President Barack Obama’s favorite pizza comes in thin-crust and deep-dish styles, with Pi’s distinctive cornmeal dough.

It’s worth trying the inventive neighborhood-themed specials. Lu n ch a n d d i n n e r da i ly. 6144 Delmar, 314-727-6633; 400 N. Euclid, 314-367-4300; 10935 Pizza .

The Rib Shack Barbecue. Perfectly named, The Rib Shack serves such sides as collards and yams, and they’re just as delicious as the ribs and other slowsmoked meats. Crowds are the norm, so don’t be in a hurry.

And though industrial steel tables aren’t exactly homey, it’s a terrific place. L u n ch

8642 Natural Bridge, 314-427-1777; 1300 Cass, 314-241-2223; ribshackstl.com. $$

Rooster caf é . At downtown’s top breakfast destination, guests line up for the cheese-laden crêpes, loaded scrambles, and lavish French toast. The setting’s light and comfy but loud.

The South Grand location is a stunner, with a communal layout and pictures of roosters drawn by local children. hours vary by location.

1104 Locust, 314-241-8118; 3150 S. Grand, 314-772-3447; roosterstl.com. $$

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse Steakhouse. Ruth’s Chris is ideal for those moments when you’ve just gotta dress up and eat a week’s worth of protein paired with gorgeous wine. The atmosphere is opulent, and service shines.

D i n n e r da i ly. 1 N. Brentwood, 314-783-9900; 315 Chestnut, 314-259-3200; ruthschris.com. $$$$

Sauce on the Side Ital i a n . The concept is brilliant in its simplicity: half a dozen salads and 15 kinds of calzones, with 10 sauces “on the side” for dipping.

The Nutella/banana dessert calzone is mandatory. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 411 N. 8th, 314-241-5667; 7810 Forsyth, 314-833-5426; 4261 Manchester, 314-932-7800; eatcalzones.com. $

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ML & Turf tasting boards are standouts. There are also vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid’s menus. And don’t miss the rave-worthy donuts and house-infused cocktails. hours vary by location.

Sugarfire Smoke house

392 N. Euclid, 314-696-8400; 2961 Dougherty Ferry, 636825-0600; tavernstl.com. $$$

B arb e c u e . Yes, we have other phenomenal barbecue joints, but none matches Sugarfire for inventive dishes and the most exquisite brisket outside Texas.

Portions and quality are astounding. It’s fun and decidedly informal, with patrons eating daily specials off metal trays. Lunch and d i n n e r da i ly. See website for locations, sugarfire smokehouse.com. $$

urban chestnut brewing company bar & g r i ll . We were already happy as hopheads with the two dozen-plus microbrews. But when we sampled the brats and schnitzels, we added The Grove location to our regular rotation. And the Biergarten in Midtown is always festive.

Sugo’s Spaghetteria

The Shack A m e r i ca n . Omelets and skillets lead the breakfast menu; lunch features piledhigh sandwiches, such as the Leftovers dish—baconwrapped meatloaf topped with melted Provolone. ho u rs v ary by loca -

Italian. There are affordable Italian specialties with startlingly big portions. It’s southern Italian, whipped up by a well-known St. Louis chef who can duplicate Nonna’s classics. hours vary by location. 10419 Clayton, 314-569-0400; 243 Harvard, Edwardsville, 618659-4640; sugoscucina. com. $$

tion. 731 S. Lindbergh, 314-

736-5900; 13645 Big Bend, 636-529-1600; 14810 Clayton, 636-220-9367; shackstl. com. $

Spiro’s Specialties at this respected family-owned chain include steak krasato and rack of lamb with scallops. (Try the combination plate if you can’t cho ose just one dish.)

Created tableside, a Greek salad is a nice touch. And don’t forget to save room for a piece of house-made baklava. ho u rs vary by locat i o n. 1054 N. Woods Mill, 314-878-4449; 3122 Watson, 314-645-8383; 2275 Bluestone, 636-916-1454; spiros-restaurant.com. $$$ Greek.

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sweetie pie’s so u th e r n . “Miss Robbie” Montgomery is the no-nonsense matriarch of this legendary soulfood joint, the lead on the popular TV show Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s. Try the famous fried chicken, cobbler, and mac and cheese. ho u rs v ary by loca -

9841 W. Florissant, 314-942-1701; 3643 Delmar, 314-932-5364; 9650 Natural Bridge, 314-279-6858; 8180 N. Lindbergh, 314-720-4224; sweetiepieskitchen.com. $ tion.

lunch and dinner daily.

3229 Washington, 314-2220143; 4465 Manchester; urbanchestnut.com. $

Three Kings Public House The menu includes upscale pub grub, as well as seafood stew, pan-roasted chicken, and a pub chips platter with Irish cheddar rarebit. An impressive tap list features an ever-rotating selection.

B ar & Gr i ll .

Lunch and dinner daily.

6307 Delmar, 314-721-3355; 11925 Manchester, 314-8153455; threekingspub.com. $$

Tucker’s Place S t e a k ho u s e . Portions way past “generous” are standard at this longtime favorite steakhouse. The ribeyes, buttery prime rib, and suitcase-size baked potatoes are legendary. It’s justly renowned for amazingly low prices on protein.

L u n ch M o n – Sat, d i n n e r

The Tavern Kitchen & Bar The Tavern serves artful comfort food.

The Seafood Trio and Surf A m e r i ca n .

Dining Guide 2016

2117 S. 12th, 314-7725977; 3939 Union, 314-8452584; 14282 Manchester, 636-227-8062; tuckers placestl.com. $$ daily.

Walnut Grill am e r i ca n. The first Missouri expansion of a minichain that began in Pittsburgh, this upscale-casual spot surprises with such unusual fusions as Thai pork mac and cheese. Want to sample idiosyncratic Pittsburgh cuisine? Try the chicken salad, something of a cross between a Rich & Charlie’s salad and a slinger.

Lu n ch M o n – Sat, d i n n e r da i ly, bru n ch S u n . 1386 Clarkson/Clayton Center, 636220-1717; 4401 Highway K, O’Fallon, Mo., 636-685-0212; eatwalnut.com. $$$

Wasabi Sushi Bar Japa n e s e / S u sh i . The popular local chain serves up sushi, noodles, and other Japanese fare. Go with the Wasabi combinations, or consider the generously portioned bento. Visit the w e bs i t e for ho u rs and locations, wasabisushibars. com. $$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

Index

Neighborhood Abbreviations: Downtown (DT) p. 5 / Midtown & Grand Center (MGC) p. 7 /

Soulard, Benton Park, Lafayette Square (SBL) p. 9 / South City & County (SCC) p. 12 / North City & County (NCC) p. 18 / Central West End (CWE) p. 20 / Dogtown & The Hill (DTH) p. 24 / University City & the Delmar Loop (UCD) p. 26 / Clayton (CT) p. 31 / Ladue, Frontenac, Creve Coeur & Olivette (LFCO) p. 34 / Maplewood, Brentwood & Richmond Heights (MBR) p. 37 / Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Rock Hill & Des Peres (KWRD) p. 41 / Far West County (FWC) p. 44 / St. Charles & Beyond (SCB) p. 46 / Metro East (ME) p. 49 / Multiple Locations (ML) p. 51

Afghan

$$$ Avenue (CT), BC’s Kitchen (SCB), Big

head Brewing Co. (SCB), Wheelhouse Bar &

$$ Sameem (SCC)

Sky Café (KWRD), Bishop’s Post (FWC),

Restaurant (DT)

Boundary (MBR), Bricktop’s (LFCO),

$$$ The Scottish Arms (CWE), Weber Grill

AMERICAN $ Baileys’ Range (DT), Blues City Deli (SBL),

Cardwell’s at the Plaza (LFCO), Cleve-

Restaurant (MBR)

Blueberry Hill (UCD), Carl’s Drive In (MBR),

Copia Restaurant and Urban Winery (DT),

Cathy’s Kitchen (NCC), City Diner (SCC),

EdgeWild Restaurant & Winery (FWC),

BARBECUE $$ Adam’s Smokehouse (SCC), BEAST Craft

Colleen’s (UCD), Crown Candy Kitchen

Farmhaus (SCC), Frazer’s Restaurant &

BBQ (ME), The BBQ Saloon (CWE), Big Baby

(NCC), The Dam (SCC), Dave & Tony’s Pre-

Lounge (SBL), Gallagher’s (ME), Gerard’s

Q and Smokehouse (NCC), Bogart’s Smoke-

mium Burger Joint (LFCO), Fitz’s (UCD), The

Restaurant (KWRD), Grapeseed (SCC),

house (SBL), Capitalist Pig BBQ (SBL), Dalie’s

Fountain on Locust (MGC), Gioia’s Deli (ML),

Herbie’s (CT), The Libertine (CT), Mike

Smokehouse (FWC), Dixon’s Smoke Com-

Goody Goody Diner (NCC), Kingside Diner

Shannon’s Grill (ME), Nathalie’s (CWE),

pany (MGC), Hendricks BBQ (SCB), Hick’s

(CWE), Milque Toast Bar (SCC), Miss Aimee

Olive+Oak (KWRD), Paulo’s at the Mansion

BBQ (ME), Pappy’s Smokehouse (MGC), The

B’s Tea Room & Gallery (SCB), Olivette Diner

(ME), Prasino (SCB), The Preston (CWE),

Rib Shack (ML), Salt + Smoke (UCD), The

(LFCO), The Original Pancake House (ML),

Remy’s Kitchen & Wine Bar (CT), The Res-

Shaved Duck (SCC), Sister Cities Cajun &

Peacock Loop Diner (UCD), Revel Kitchen

taurant (CT), The Restaurant at the Cheshire

BBQ (SCC), Smoki O’s (NCC), Spare No Rib

(MBR), The Shack (ML), Shift, Test Kitchen

(MBR), SqWires (SBL), Sunset 44 Bistro

(SCC), Sugarfire Smoke House (ML), Twin

& Take Out (DT), The Slider House (KWRD),

(KWRD), Table Three (FWC), The Tavern

Oak Wood-Fired Pizza and BBQ (MBR), Ver-

Southwest Diner (SCC), Spencer’s Grill

Kitchen & Bar (ML), Veritas Gateway to Food

non’s BBQ & Catering (UCD)

(KWRD), Stage Left Diner (MGC), St. Louis

& Wine (FWC), Vicia (CWE), Walnut Grill

Wing Company (KWRD), Stacked Burger Bar

(ML), Wild Flower Restaurant & Bar (CWE)

(SCC), The Tattooed Dog (SCB), Tom+Chee

$$$$ Annie Gunn’s (FWC), Firebirds Wood

CAFÉ AND/OR BAKERY $ Benton Park Café (SBL), Café Ventana

(SCB), Whitebox Eatery (CT), Wicked Greenz

Fired Grill (SCB), Five Bistro (DTH), The Grill

(MGC), City Coffee House & Crêperie (CT),

(CT), Yolklore (SCC)

(CT), Scape (CWE), Sidney Street Café (SBL),

Companion Café (ML), Daily Bread Bakery

$$ Almonds Restaurant (CT), Anthony’s Bar

Stone Soup Cottage (SCB)

and Café (KWRD), Edibles & Essentials

land–Heath (ME), Cooper’s Hawk (FWC),

(SCC), Hartford Coffee Company (SCC),

(DT), Balaban’s (FWC), Ballpark Village (DT),

Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Café (UCD), Kaldi’s

The Block (ML), Blue Sky Tower Grill (MBR),

ASIAN $ Bobo Noodle House (UCD), Guerrilla Street

The Boathouse (CWE), Braddens Restaurant

Food (SCC), Kalbi Taco Shack (SCC), Lona’s

(LFCO), La Pâtisserie Chouquette (SCC),

(SCB), Bridge Tap House and Wine Bar (DT),

Lil Eats (SCC)

London Tea Room (SCC), Mary Ann’s Tea

Café Osage (CWE), Central Table (CWE), Ci-

$$ Asia (SCB), Everest Café & Bar (SCC),

Room (CWE), The Mud House (SCC), Nadoz

cero’s (UCD), Circa STL (KWRD), The Cop-

Kounter Kulture (SCC), Lulu Seafood and

Bakery + Café (MBR), Nathaniel Reid Bakery

per Pig (SCC), Curtain Call Lounge (MGC),

Dim Sum (UCD), Wang Gang Asian Eats (ME)

(KWRD), Nourish by Hollyberry (KWRD),

Death in the Afternoon (DT), Eclipse (UCD),

$$$ Hiro Asian Kitchen (DT)

Picasso’s Coffee House (SCB), Soulard Coffee

Billy G’s Kirkwood (KWRD), Bixby’s (CWE),

EdgeWild Bistro & Tap (LFCO), Element

Coffee Roasting Co. (ML), La Bonne Bouchée

Garden Café (SBL), SweetArt (SCC), Union Loafers (SCC), VB Chocolate Bar (SCB)

Kitchen & Tap (ME), Fox & Hounds Tavern

BAR & GRILL , BREWERY & PUB $ The Crow’s Nest (MBR), Mike Duffy’s Pub

(MBR), The Garden on Grand (SCC), Gus’s

& Grill (ML), O’Connell’s Pub (SCC), The Post

(KWRD), Egg (SBL), Rooster (ML)

World Famous Fried Chicken (MBR), Half

Sports Bar and Grill (ML), Urban Chestnut

$$$ Cravings Restaurant and Bakery

& Half (CT), Hendel’s Market Café & Wine

Brewing Company (ML), West End Grill &

(KWRD), Russell’s Café & Bakery (ML)

Bar (NCC), Iron Barley (SCC), J Fire’s Mar-

Pub (CWE)

ket Bistro (ME), J McArthurs (SCC), Jazz

$$ Biggies Restaurant and Bar (SCC), Circle

at the Bistro (MGC), Lascelles Granite City

7 Ranch Taphouse & Grill (FWC), Dressel’s

(ME), Lewis and Clark’s (SCB), Local Chef

Public House (CWE), Ferguson Brewing

ern Food (ME)

Kitchen (FWC), Louie’s Wine Dive (CT), Lu-

Company (NCC), Helen Fitzgerald’s (SCC),

$$ Broadway Oyster Bar (DT), Evangeline’s

cas Park Grille (DT), Panorama (CWE), Pic-

Joey B’s (ML), Layla (SCC), Lester’s Sports

Bistro (CWE), Riverbend Restaurant (MBR)

cadilly at Manhattan (SCC), Planter’s House

Bar (LFCO), Llywelyn’s Pub (ML), McGurk’s

$$$ Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill (ML),

(SBL), The Purple Martin (SCC), Quincy

(ML), Michael’s Bar and Grill (MBR), The

Molly’s in Soulard (SBL)

Street Bistro (SCC), Reeds American Table

Muddled Pig Gastropub (MBR), PaPPo’s Piz-

(MBR), Retreat Gastropub (CWE), Rock &

zeria & Pub (MGC), The Pat Connolly Tavern

Brews (FWC), Social Gastropub (ME), Sub

(DTH), Schlafly Bottleworks (MBR), Schlafly

Zero Vodka Bar (CWE), Three Flags Tavern

Tap Room (DT), Seamus McDaniel’s (DTH),

CHINESE $ Corner 17 (UCD) $$ Chef Ma’s Chinese Gourmet Restau-

(SCC), Triumph Grill (MGC), Water Street

Sportsman’s Park (LFCO), Square One Brew-

rant (NCC), Joy Luck Buffet (MBR), Private

(MBR), Winslow’s Home (UCD), The Wood

ery and Distillery (SBL), Three Kings Public

Kitchen (UCD), Wonton King (UCD), Yen

Cask (KWRD)

House (ML), Three Monkeys (SCC), Trail-

Ching (MBR)

(SBL), Five Star Burgers (ML), Fletcher’s

$$ Baileys’ Chocolate Bar (SBL), Cyrano’s

CAJUN/CREOLE $ The Kitchen Sink (DT), Who Dat’s South-

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ETHIOPIAN $$ Meskerem (SCC)

detto’s on Main (FWC), Brazie’s Ristorante

Bar & Tapas (SCB), Cork Wine Bar (NCC),

(DTH), Brio Tuscan Grill (LFCO), Café Na-

The Dark Room (MGC), Ernesto’s Wine Bar

poli (CT), Charlie Gitto’s (ML), Dominic’s

(SBL), One 19 North (KWRD), Robust (ML),

EUROPEAN (French, German, Greek, Mediterranean, & More) $ Medina Mediterranean Grill (DT), Momos

Trattoria (CT), Eleven Eleven Mississippi

Sanctuaria (SCC), Sasha’s (ML), Scarlett’s

(SBL), Frank Papa’s Ristorante (MBR), Gian-

Wine Bar (CWE), Taste (CWE), Three Sixty

Tony’s (DTH), Gianfabio’s Italian Café (FWC),

(DT), Via Vino Enoteca (LFCO), The Wine

Giovanni’s Kitchen (LFCO), I Fratellini (CT),

Tap (ME)

Ouzaria Taverna (UCD), Tazé Mediterranean

Il Bel Lago (LFCO), J.F. Sanfilippo’s Italian

Street Food (DT), The Vine (SCC)

Restaurant & Bar (DT), Lombardo’s (ML),

$$ Café Natasha’s (SCC), Dreamland Pal-

Lorenzo’s Trattoria (DTH), LoRusso’s Cucina

ace (ME), Grbic (SCC), Kaslik Mediterranean

(SCC), Napoli 2 (FWC), Paul Manno’s Café

SOUTHERN $ Southern (MGC), Sweetie Pie’s (ML) $$ Byrd & Barrel (SCC), Hodak’s (SCC), Ju-

Cuisine (NCC), Olio (SCC), Omar’s Italian &

(FWC), Peppe’s Apt. 2 (KWRD), Roberto’s

niper (CWE), Sweet Times at the Mangrove

Mediterranean Cuisine (NCC), Sheesh (SCC)

Trattoria (SCC), Sapore Italian Café (KWRD),

(SCC)

$$$ Atlas Restaurant (CWE), Aya Sofia

Trattoria Toscana (SCC)

(SCC), Bar Les Freres (CT), Brasserie by Niche (CWE), Café Provencal (KWRD), Elaia (SCC), Spiro’s (ML),Vin de Set (SBL), Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro (FWC)

$$$$ Cielo (DT), Dominic’s on The Hill

(DT), Tony’s (DT), Tony’s on Main Street

SOUTH AMERICAN, CENTRAL AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN $ Venice Café (SBL) $$ Boogaloo (MBR), Brasilia Bar & Restau-

$$$$ The Crossing (CT), Parigi (CT)

(SCB)

rant (SCC), Fritanga (SCC), Mango (DT),

INDIAN $$ Absolute BBQ Indian Wish Grill (FWC),

JAPANESE AND/OR SUSHI $$ Midtown Sushi and Ramen (MGC), Nobu’s

$$$ Tucanos Brazilian Grill (SCB)

House of India (UCD), India Palace (NCC),

(UCD), Robata (MBR), Seven Sushi Bar (ME),

Mr. Curry’s India Restaurant (ML), Peshwa

Siam (SCC), Sub Zero Vodka Bar (CWE), Su-

(LFCO), Saffron Indian Cuisine (KWRD)

shi Sen (SCB), The Sushi Station (KWRD),

STEAKHOUSE $$ Tucker’s Place (ML) $$$ Frederick’s Steakhouse & Pizzeria

Tani Sushi Bistro (CT), VISTA Ramen (SCC),

(NCC), Gamlin Whiskey House (CWE)

(DTH), Giovanni’s on The Hill (DTH), John Mineo’s (FWC), Kemoll’s Italian Restaurant

Maya Café (MBR), Yemanja Brasil (SBL)

ITALIAN AND/OR PIZZA $ Angelo’s Pizzeria (NCC), Crushed Red Ur-

Wasabi Sushi Bar (ML)

$$$$ 1818 Chophouse (ML), 1904 Steak-

$$$ Baiku Sushi Lounge (MGC), Drunken

house (SCC), 801 Chophouse (CT), Al’s

ban Bake and Chop Shop (ML), East Coast

Fish (ML), Nippon Tei (FWC), Yori (FWC)

Restaurant (DT), Andria’s Countryside

Pizza (FWC), Epic Pizza and Subs (SBL),

(ME), Andria’s Restaurant (ME), Bugatti’s Steak & Pasta (SCB), Carmine’s Steakhouse

$$ Acero (MBR), Anthonino’s Taverna

KOREAN $ Asian Kitchen Korean Cuisine (UCD), Kim-

(DTH), Basso (MBR), Charlie Gitto’s Down-

cheese (ML), Seoul Taco (UCD)

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

Sauce on the Side (ML)

town (DT), Cibare Italian Kitchen (SCC),

(DT), Citizen Kane’s Steakhouse (KWRD), (LFCO), J. Gilbert’s (KWRD), Kreis’ Steakhouse & Bar (LFCO), Morton’s the Steak-

House of Pasta (DTH), Dewey’s Pizza (ML),

MEXICAN & PAN-LATIN $ La Vallesana (SCC), Mayana Mexican

Farotto’s Pizzeria (KWRD), Favazza’s (DTH),

Chicken (CT), Mi Tierra Tienda y Taqueria

The Tenderloin Room (CWE), Twisted Tree

Felix’s Pizza Pub (DTH), Fratelli’s Ristorante

(ME), Mission Taco Joint (ML), Nachomama’s

Steakhouse (SCC)

(SCB), Guido’s Pizzeria & Tapas (DTH), JJ

(KWRD), Taco Circus (SCC), Taqueria Du-

Twig’s Pizza & Pub (ML), Joe Boccardi’s

rango (NCC)

Ristorante (ML), Katie’s Pizza and Pasta

$$ Amigos Cantina (KWRD), Atomic Cowboy

(KWRD), Katie’s Pizzeria Café (CT), La Pizza

(SCC), Cantina Laredo (CT), Canyon Café

THAI $ Fork & Stix (UCD) $$ Addie’s Thai House (FWC), Manee Thai

(UCD), Mangia Italiano (SCC), Mona’s: An

(LFCO), El Burro Loco (CWE), Hacienda

(FWC), Pearl Café (NCC), Sen Thai Asian Bis-

American-Italian Joint (DTH), LoRusso’s on

(KWRD), Milagro Modern Mexican (KWRD),

tro (DT), Simply Thai (NCC), Sunisa’s Thai

Grand (MGC), Melo’s Pizzeria (SBL), Onesto

Pueblo Nuevo (NCC), Pueblo Solis (SCC),

Restaurant (SCB), Thai House (ME), Thai

(SCC), The Pasta House Co. (ML), Pastaria

Ruiz Mexican Restaurant (NCC), Señor Pique

Kitchen (SCB)

(CT), Peel Wood Fired Pizza (ML), Peno

(FWC), Tortillaria (CWE)

(CT), Pi Pizzeria (ML), Pirrone’s Pizza (ML),

$$$ Público (UCD)

Cugino’s Italian Bar and Grill (NCC), Cunetto

Pizzeoli (SBL), Pizzeria Mia (CWE), Pizzeria

house (CT), Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (ML),

VEGETARIAN $ Lulu’s Local Eatery (SCC) $$ Small Batch (MGC), Tree House (SCC)

rano Pasta (DT), PW Pizza (SBL), Randolfi’s

SEAFOOD $$ Demun Oyster Bar (CT), The Peacemaker

(UCD), Red-L Pizza (LFCO), Rigazzi’s (DTH),

Lobster & Crab Company (SBL)

Sardella (CT), The Sliced Pint (DT), Sugo’s

$$$ Bonefish Grill (MBR), Bristol Seafood

VIETNAMESE $ Banh Mi So #1 Saigon Gourmet (SCC),

Spaghetteria (ML), Trattoria Marcella (SCC),

Grill (ML), Oceano Bistro (CT)

Pho Grand (SCC), Pho Long (UCD)

Twin Oak Wood-Fired Pizza and BBQ (MBR),

$$$$ 801 Fish (CT)

$$ Little Saigon Café (CWE), Mai Lee (FWC), VietNam Style (UCD)

$$$ Agostino’s Italian Restaurant (ME), Bar

SMALL PLATES AND/OR WINE BAR $ The Rack House West Winery (SCB) $$ 33 Wine Shop & Bar (SBL), Barcelona

Italia (CWE), Bartolino’s Osteria (ML), Bene-

Tapas Restaurant (CT), Bella Vino Wine

Tivoli (SCC), Plank Road Pizza (SCB), Po-

(MBR), Monsoon Vietnamese Bistro

Vincenzo’s Italian Restaurant (NCC), Vito’s in the Valley (FWC), Vito’s Sicilian Pizza & Ristorante (MGC), Yaquis on Cherokee (SCC), Zia’s (DTH)

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