2017 Dining Guide by St. Louis Magazine

2017 EDITION MORE THAN

500

RESTAURANTS

RETREAT GASTROPUBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FARMHOUSE BURGER AND ROSEMARY-TRUFFLE FRIES

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Washington University Physicians

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Dining Guide 2017 ED ITION 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

FAR WEST COUNTY DOWNTOWN p. 5

CENTRAL WEST END p. 26

MIDTOWN & GRAND CENTER

DOGTOWN & THE HILL

LADUE, FRONTENAC, CREVE COEUR & OLIVETTE

p. 50

ST. CHARLES & BEYOND p. 52

p. 40

p. 31

p. 8

METRO EAST MAPLEWOOD, BRENTWOOD RICHMOND HEIGHTS & THE HI-POINTE AREA MULTIPLE LOCATIONS p. 55

SOULARD, BENTON PARK & LAFAYETTE SQUARE

UNIVERSITY CITY & THE DELMAR LOOP p. 32

p. 43

p. 58

p. 12

SOUTH CITY & COUNTY

CLAYTON p. 36

p. 15

KIRKWOOD, WEBSTER, ROCK HILL & DES PERES

INDEX p. 63

p. 46

NORTH CITY & COUNTY

Key

RESTAURANT CUISINE HO U R S

Contact info

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

p. 23

COVER PHOTO GRAPHY BY

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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KEVIN A. ROBERTS

DINING GUIDE 2017

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DOWNTOWN DT

PORANO PASTA ITALIAN. Downtown St. Louis became the envy of the region when James Beard Award–winning chef Gerard Craft opened a fast casual 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. $$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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DT AL’S RESTAURANT 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. DINNER TUE–SAT. 1200 N. First, 314-421-6399, alsrestaurant.net. $$$$ STEAKHOUSE .

ANTHONY’S BAR 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 C H M O N - F R I , D I N N E R T U E – SAT. 10 S. Broadway, 314-2317007, saucecafe.com/tonys. $$ AMERICAN.

ter the game or during a special event. HOURS VARY. 601 Clark, 314-345-9481, stlballparkvillage.com. $$

BRIDGE TAP HOUSE AND WINE BAR AMERICAN. 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1004 Locust, 314-241-8141, thebridgestl.com. $$

Naysayers who suspected this would be a cheesy tourist trap are now eating their words. Developers have provided major league visuals, entertainment (even in the off-season), 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, and 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 self-serve 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 action-packed hub, the ideal perch for a beer and a Bacon Three Way Burger before or afAMERICAN.

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DRUNKEN FISH See “Multiple Locations.”

GIOIA’S DELI

Live music 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 AND DINNER DAILY. 736 S. Broadway, 314-621-8811, broadwayoysterbar.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

CA J U N /C R E O L E .

CARMINE’S STEAKHOUSE STEAKHOUSE . Beef gets all the attention, though savvy diners at this splendidly formal eatery in the shadow of the Arch often opt for such specialties as chicken Gorgonzola and spinaci scallops. A classic steakhouse with a long history, it’s the perfect destination for a special evening. DINNER DAILY. 20 S. Fourth, 314-2411631, lombardosrestaurants.com. $$$$

CHARLIE GITTO’S DOWNTOWN BALLPARK VILLAGE

AMERICAN. Relaxed and comfortable (especially on the charming patio), Copia’s the place for an evening spent noshing and sampling wine. Threecourse specialties are a great bargain. Smaller offerings—such as arancini—are notable. The attached retail wine store is impressive. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY. 1122 Washington, 314-241-9463, copiastl.com. $$$

BROADWAY OYSTER BAR

BAILEYS’ RANGE AMERICAN. 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 atmosphere mixes industrial chic with country nostalgia. LU N C H A N D DINNER DAILY. 920 Olive, 314-241-8121, baileysrange.com. $

COPIA RESTAURANT AND URBAN WINERY

ITALIAN. Celeb photos line the walls of this iconic downtown spot where locals and tourists mix. The menu’s a textbook of Italian-American dishes: pastas, veal, steaks, chicken—and a stupendous seafood risotto. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER MON–SAT. 207 N. Sixth, 314-4362828, charliegittosdt.com. $$

HIRO ASIAN KITCHEN ASIAN. 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. LUNCH TUE– SAT, DINNER TUE–SUN, BRUNCH SAT &

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

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, it’s sold by the bottle to go. LUNCH MON– FRI, DINNER MON–SAT. 705 N. Broadway, 314-621-7213, jfsanfilippos.com. $$$

JOEY B’S See “Multiple Locations.”

KALDI’S CIELO 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-andtruffle ravioli—and an excellent wine list. B R E A K FA S T A N D L U N C H M O N –

See “Multiple Locations.”

I TA L I A N .

F R I , D I N N E R DA I LY, B R U N C H SAT & S U N . 999 N. Second, 314-881-5759, cielostlouis.com. $$$$

KEMOLL’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 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 bargain. LUNCH MON– FRI, DINNER MON–SAT. 211 N. Broadway, 314-421-0555, kemolls.com. $$$$

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DT KIMCHEESE

PORANO PASTA

See “Multiple Locations.”

See description on p. 5.

LOMBARDO’S TRATTORIA

ROBUST

See “Multiple Locations.”

LUCAS PARK GRILLE

ROOSTER

A M E R I C A N . This is one of the 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.

See “Multiple Locations.”

TAZÉ MEDITERRANEAN STREET FOOD

ROSALITA’S CANTINA

See “Multiple Locations.”

LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH

SAUCE ON THE SIDE

SAT & SUN. 1234 Washington, 314-241-

See “Multiple Locations.”

criminating suds sophisticate. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1511 Washington, 314-696-8787, theslicedpint.com. $$

SUGARFIRE SMOKE HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

See “Multiple Locations.”

THREE SIXTY RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

7770, lucasparkgrille.com. $$

SCHLAFLY TAP ROOM MANGO 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. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY. 1001 Washington, 314-621-9993, mangoperu.com. $$ SOUTH AMERICAN.

MEDINA MEDITERRANEAN GRILL MEDITERRANEAN. 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? LUNCH DAILY, DINNER MON– SAT. 1327 Washington, 314-241-1356, medinagrill.com. $

MORTON’S THE STEAKHOUSE STEAKHOUSE. 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 protein-loving pals or while celebrating something special. It delivers. It isn’t cheap, but life’s short. And a steak dinner at Morton’s is glorious. DINNER DAILY. 999 E. 2nd, 314-881-7777, mortons.com. $$$$

MR. CURRY’S INDIA RESTAURANT See “Multiple Locations.”

PI PIZZERIA See “Multiple Locations.”

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 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? LU N C H A N D DINNER DAILY. 2100 Locust, 314-2412337, schlafly.com/tap-room. $$

SEN THAI ASIAN BISTRO ASIAN. 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 C H M O N – F R I , DINNER DAILY. 1221 Locust, 314-4363456, senthaibistro.com. $$

SHIFT, TEST KITCHEN & TAKE OUT A M E R I CA N. Keep up with the latest food trends at this test kitchen–incubator, which holds recipe research and development for Dave Bailey’s ever-growing roster of restaurants. It’s open on weekdays for to-go lunch only; service is lightning fast (and even faster if you order online). L U N C H M O N – F R I . 313 N. 11th, 314-932-7443, shifttestkitchen.com. $

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 dis-

SMALL PLATES. 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. DINNER DAILY. 1 S. Broadway, 314-2418439, 360-stl.com. $$

TIN ROOF AMERICAN. Pulled pork nachos pair nicely with a rosé slushie Frosé at this live music venue built around a comfy Southern-themed eating joint. Sunday brunch is a draw, with bands playing while you graze on shrimp and grits, slingers, and “biscuit doughnuts” that are as decadent as they sound. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1000 Clark, 314240-5400, tinroofstlouis.com. $$

TONY’S I TA L I A N. 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 luxurious, 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. $$$$

WASABI SUSHI BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

WHEELHOUSE A M E R I C A N . This sports bar offers a from-scratch menu of pub favorites, tons of TVs, and a great beer selection. It’s enough to keep any sports lover happy. LUNCH AND DINN E R DA I LY. 1000 Spruce, 314-8333653, wheelhousestl.com. $$

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MIDTOWN & GRAND CENTER MGC

THE DARK ROOM WINE 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R W E D – S U N. 3610 Grandel Square, 314-776-9550, thedarkroomstl.com. $$

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MGC BAIKU SUSHI LOUNGE

HUGO’S PIZZERIA

SMALL BATCH

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. LU N C H WED –FRI, DINNER TUE–SAT. 3407 Olive, 314-896-2500, baikustl.com. $$$

PIZZA .

After mastering crêpes, burgers, sweets, and vegetarian fare, restaurateur Dave Bailey rolls out yet another concept: pizza, capitalizing on the most popular topping by offering five house-made varieties of pepperoni. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R D A I LY. 3135 Olive, 314-896-4846, hugospizzeria.com. $$

V E G E TA R I A N. A vegetarian menu is paired with dark spirits inside a former Ford Model T showroom. House-made 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 S U N . 3001 Locust, 314-380-2040, smallbatchstl.com. $$

JAZZ AT THE BISTRO

SOUTHERN

The bistro’s menu matches this singular, 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 H T LY D U R I N G

S O U T H E R N . Chef Rick Lewis and Pappy’s Smokehouse’s Mike Emerson founded Southern, which serves up a winning combination of Nashville hot chicken and New Orleans–style sandwiches. Go early to beat the crowds.

J A PA N E S E / S U S H I .

AMERICAN.

CAFÉ VENTANA AMERICAN. 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 FA ST, LU N C H , A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 3919 W. Pine, 314-531-7500, cafeventana.com. $

P E R FO R M A N C E S AT 7: 3 0 & 9 : 3 0 P. M .

3108 Olive, 314-531-4668, stlsouthern.com. $

3536 Washington, 314-571-6000, jazzstl.org. $$

SWEETIE PIE’S

CURTAIN CALL LOUNGE 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 your French fries. Check the website for occasional lunch openings. DINNER ON SHOW NIGHTS, FRI & SAT. 521 N. Grand, 314534-1678, fabulousfox.com. $$ AMERICAN.

DIXON’S SMOKE COMPANY BARBECUE. 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. $$

LU N C H A N D L AT E LU N C H S U N .

See “Multiple Locations.”

LORUSSO’S ON GRAND I TA L 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 T-ravs. L U N C H B E F O R E SAT & S U N F OX M AT I N E E S ,

601 N. Grand, 314-601-3063. facebook.com/ lorussosongrand. $$ D I N N E R B E FO R E FOX S H OWS.

THE DARK ROOM See description on p. 8.

LUNCH AND EARLY DINNER WED –SAT,

TRIUMPH GRILL AMERICAN. 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. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DA I LY, D I N N E R T U E – SAT. 3419 Olive, 314-446-1801, triumphgrill.com. $$

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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E – S U N . 3674 Forest Park, 314-328-2452, midtown-sushi.com. $$

TURN

PAPPY’S SMOKEHOUSE

VITO’S SICILIAN PIZZA & RISTORANTE

A M E R I CA N. Among the best breakfast places around, Turn serves such surprises as corncake arepas with chorizo and eggs. The “biscuit flight” with housemade jams is also phenomenal. The airy, comfortable place features groovy record album décor. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH TUE– S U N . 3224 Locust, 314-240-5157, davidkirklandcatering.com/turn. $$

THE FOUNTAIN ON LOCUST AMERICAN. With a four-wall 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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R TUE–SUN. 3037 Locust, 314-535-7800, fountainonlocust.com. $

BARBECUE . This award-winning spot

serves arguably the best Memphis-style barbecue in its class. Sample the dryrubbed ribs and pulled pork to see why people don’t mind waiting in long lines and why items often sell out. LU N C H AND EARLY DINNER MON–SAT, LUNCH

3106 Olive, 314535-4340, pappyssmokehouse.com. $$ AND LATE LUNCH SUN.

ITALIAN. 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–Friday. LUNCH MON– SAT, DINNER DAILY. 3515 Lindell, 314534-8486, vitosstl.com. $$

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SOULARD, BENTON PARK & LAFAYETTE SQUARE SBL

POLITE SOCIETY

AMERICAN. At this wonderful little brick-wall joint that’s heavy on the folksy, you’ll feel compelled to come in for a cocktail and stay for bistro steak or confit chicken wings. The bookshelves aren’t for show: There’s an array of readable tomes on seemingly every subject. DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH AND DINNER SAT & SUN. 1923 Park, 314-325-2553, politesocietystl.com. $$$

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SBL 33 WINE SHOP & BAR W I N E B A R . 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, facebook.com/33wine. $$

BAILEYS’ CHOCOLATE BAR C A F É . 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 array of nibbles— pizzetas, hummus, empañadas—that serve as the perfect complement to a tantalizing drink menu. D I N N E R W E D – S U N . 1915 Park, 314-241-8100, baileyschocolatebar.com. $$

BENTON PARK CAFÉ CAFÉ. Booze smoothies start the day,

and though sandwiches and soups are fine later, breakfast pizzas and burritos make this place special. B R E A K FA ST

hand-tossed pies, pizzettes, and panini. Start with an order of arancini or T-ravs. B R E A K FA ST, LU N C H , A N D DINNER DAILY. 1900 Arsenal, 314-3430294, cafepiazza.com. $$

EGG CAFÉ . The imaginative menu includes several Benedicts, hashes, breakfast tacos, and even sopes. There’s a full bar, too, if more than fresh orange and grapefruit juice is required. B R E A KFA S T A N D L U N C H T U E – S U N . 2200 Gravois, 314-202-8244, breakfast camefirst.com. $$

ELEMENT 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. $$

A N D LU N C H DA I LY, O P E N 2 4 H O U R S

ELEVEN ELEVEN MISSISSIPPI

FRI & SAT. 2901 Salena, 314-771-7200,

I TA L I A N .

bentonparkcafe.com. $

BOGART’S SMOKEHOUSE See description on p. 14.

BLUES CITY DELI 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 muffuletta. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER THU. 2438 McNair, 314-7738225, bluescitydeli.com. $ AMERICAN.

CAPITALIST PIG BBQ BARBECUE. Located in a former police station, Capitalist Pig offers an uconvential atmosphere and barbecue. It’s the only area ’cue joint that goes whole hog—literally: buying whole hogs 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, 314-772-1180, capitalist pigbbq.com. $$

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 C H MON–FRI, DINNER MON–SAT. 1111 Mississippi, 314-241-9999, 1111-m.com. $$$

EPIC PIZZA AND SUBS PIZZA . Epic makes wood-fired 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. LU N C H A N D D I N NER DAILY. 1711 S. 9th, 314-436-3742, epicpizzaandsubs.com. $

ERNESTO’S WINE BAR On Wednesday, wines are half price. Flatbreads and steak and frites–type classics are served alongside seasonal specials. The drink menu includes New and Old World wines, as well as cocktails. D I N N E R TUE–SAT. 2730 McNair, 314-664-4511, ernestoswinebar.com. $$ WINE BAR.

tails. The mood’s decidedly cool, with a lounge feel, and the menu changes constantly, with an emphasis on international flavors and superior ingredients. DINNER MON–SAT, BRUNCH SAT. 1811 Pestalozzi, 314-773-8646, frazers goodeats.com. $$$

L’ACADIANE CA J U N /C R E O L E . Dave Bailey moved his storied Chocolate Bar to the second floor so guests could enjoy Cajun/ Creole fare downstairs at L’Acadiane before moseying upstairs for Chocolate Inebriation cake. LUNCH AND DINN E R DA I LY. 1915 Park, 314-899-0430, lacadiane.com. $$

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. DINNER THU & FRI. 2438 McNair Rear, 314-833-4489, melospizzeria.com. $$

MISSION TACO JOINT See “Multiple Locations.”

MOLLY’S IN SOULARD CAJUN/CREOLE. There’s a bustling patio scene, and the music is rocking on weekends. For Sunday brunch, consider the decadent bread pudding French toast. And dinner? Try a great gumbo with braised chicken and house-made cornbread. LUNCH AND DINNER TUES AT, B R U N C H S U N ; C H A N G E S S E A-

816 Geyer, 314-241-6200, mollysinsoulard.com. $$$ S O N A L LY.

THE PEACEMAKER LOBSTER & CRAB COMPANY SEAFO OD. 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 C H M O N – F R I , L AT E L U N C H S U N , D I N N E R

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

DA I LY.

CAFÉ PIAZZA

FRAZER’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE

PIZZA . Vito La Fata’s pizzeria boasts a locally inspired ceiling mural and a gas-fired pizza oven that cranks out

A M E R I CA N. Already popular for its innovative food, Frazer’s should be better known for its outstanding cock-

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SBL PIZZEOLI PIZZA . 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. LUNCH FRI & SAT, DINNER TUE–SAT. 1928 S. 12th, 314-449-1111, pizzeoli.com. $$

selection is endless. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 2017 Chouteau, 314-241-7799, pwpizza.com. $$

SIDNEY STREET CAFÉ AMERICAN. 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. DINNER TUE–SAT. 2000 Sidney, 314-771-5777, sidneystreetcafe.com. $$$$

PLANTER’S HOUSE A M E R I CA N. 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, plantershousestl.com. $$

SOULARD COFFEE GARDEN CAFÉ CA F 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 brick-floored patio. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY. 910 Geyer, 314-241-1464, soulardcoffeegarden.com. $

POLITE SOCIETY See description on p. 12.

SQUARE ONE BREWERY AND DISTILLERY

PW PIZZA

BAR & GRILL . Square One delivers on many fronts. Flights of spirits distilled in house 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

PIZZA . The history of St. Louis brewer-

ies 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

staples like pot roast sandwiches and fish and (homemade) chips, the first distillery brewpub in Missouri is a solid choice. LU N C H M O N – SAT, D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H S U N. 1727 Park, 314-231-2537, squareonebrewery.com. $$

SQWIRES A M E R I C A N . Sqwires, housed in a converted wire factory, boasts a fireplace, live music, a menu bouncing from bacon-wrapped 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. L U N C H TUE–FRI, DINNER TUE–SAT, BRUNCH

1415 S. 18th, 314-865-3522, sqwires.com. $$$ SAT & SUN.

TUCKER’S PLACE See “Multiple Locations.”

VENICE CAFÉ C A R I B B E A N . Funky décor, lively bands, and a cash-only bar make this St. Louis institution the perfect place to take wide-eyed outof-towners. 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 – SAT. 1903 Pestalozzi, 314-772-5994, thevenicecafe.com. $

VIN DE SET FRENCH. 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. LUNCH TUE–FRI, DINNER TUE–SUN, BRUNCH

2017 Chouteau, 314-241-8989, vindeset.com. $$$ SUN.

YEMANJA BRASIL

BOGART’S SMOKEHOUSE

BA R B E C U E . At Soulard’s most celebrated barbecue joint, tales of life-changing meals of brisket, smoked turkey, and baked beans are only slight exaggerations. The usual challenges of any great barbecue place are here—long lines and “We outta that” are testaments to its popularity—but it’s absolutely worth it. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER FRI & SAT . 1627 S. Ninth, 314-621-3107, bogartssmokehouse.com. $$

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SOUTH 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 empañadas, 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. $$

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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 highend place: aged meats, luxurious 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, river city.com/dining/1904-steak-house. $$$$ STEAKHOUSE.

ADAM’S SMOKEHOUSE A descendant of the legendary Pappy’s Smokehouse, Adam’s features a house-made smoked salami sandwich (a nod to the place’s proximity to The Hill) and ribs rubbed with undisclosed 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). BARBECUE.

LUNCH TUE–SUN, EARLY DINNER FRI

2819 Watson, 314-875-9890, adamssmokehouse.com. $$ & S AT.

harira soup make for powerfully flavored meals. It’s all slow-cooked, so expect a leisurely experience. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT. 3191 S. Grand, 314-9327950, baidarestaurant.com. $$

BANH MI SO #1 SAIGON GOURMET VIETNAMESE . 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. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 4071 S. Grand, 314-353-0545, banhmiso1.com. $

BASIL SPICE THAI. A suitably Siamese interior and relaxing sidewalk patio make this a favorite for South Grand diners seeking low-key, satisfyingly authentic meals. Expect the usual Thai offerings: curries, noodles, and spicy-sweet soups (with plenty of vegetarian options). It’s comfortable, and you’ll want to linger over Thai beers. Friedbanana crêpes provide a sweet finish.

ATOMIC COWBOY

LUNCH WED –MON, DINNER NIGHTLY.

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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H S U N . 4140 Manchester, 314775-0775, atomiccowboystl.com. $$

3183 S. Grand, 314-776-1530. $$

M E X I CA N.

AYA SOFIA E U R O P E A N . 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 C H

BARTOLINO’S OSTERIA See “Multiple Locations.”

BIGGIES RESTAURANT AND BAR B A R & G R I L L . Though you’ll want to plop right down on a stool upon entering through the bar—welcoming, low-lit, and spotted with Anheuser-Busch 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 AND DINN E R T U E – S U N. 3332 Watson, 314-7810060, biggiesrestaurant.com. $$

TUE–FRI, DINNER TUE–SUN, BRUNCH

BRASILIA BAR & RESTAURANT

6671 Chippewa, 314-645-9919, ayasofiacuisine.com. $$$

S O U T H A M E R I CA N . 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. LUNCH TUE–SAT, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. 3212 S. Grand, 314-9321034, brasiliastl.com. $$

S U N.

BAIDA MOROCCAN RESTAURANT It’s just like Applebee’s—except with belly dancing and delicious dishes graced with aromatic spices (cumin, coriander, saffron), lemon, and caramelized onion. The tajines are particularly fine; sweet-savory chicken pie and hearty tomato-based MEDITERRANEAN.

BYRD & BARREL SOUTHERN. The chicken’s crispy, hot, and tasty. The place is downright fun, with an urban beer garden and a drivethru, 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. BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND DINNER DAILY. 3422 S. Jefferson, 314-875-9998. $$

CAFÉ MOCHI J A P A N E S E / S U S H I . This popular neighborhood haunt is famous for its happy hour sushi specials. Upstairs, it’s coffee-house quiet; the first floor’s bustling and lively. Those fuchsia walls and the smooth-cool music—along with fine beers, fruity cocktails, and a wild assortment of hyperconcocted sushi rolls—make dining enjoyable. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E – SUN. 3221 S. Grand, 314-773-5000. $$

CAFE NATASHA’S M E D I T E R R A N E A N. 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 oh-so-tender perfection. LUNCH AND DINNER THU–TUE. 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 Italian-themed cocktails. Cibare’s retail bakery and coffee shop also serves Lavazza, “Italy’s favorite coffee.” LUNCH A N D D I N N E R D A I LY. 777 River City Casino, 314-388-7777, rivercity.com. $$

CITY DINER D I N E R . 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). B R E A KFAST, LUNCH, AND DINNER SUN–THU;

3139 S. Grand, 314-722-6100, citydinerstl.com. $ O P E N 2 4 H O U R S F R I & S AT.

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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. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT, BRUNCH SUN. 4611 Macklind, 314-499-7166, thecopperpig.com. $$ AMERICAN.

THE DAM AMERICAN. 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 DINNER DAILY. 3173 Morgan Ford, 314-771-3173, thedamstl.com. $

EDIBLES & ESSENTIALS D E L I . 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 MON–SAT. 5815 Hampton, 314328-2300, ediblesandessentials.com. $

ELAIA M E D I T E R R A N E A N . Tucked into an immaculately renovated house in blossoming Botanical Heights, Ben Poremba’s Elaia offers one of the city’s most complete dining 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 – SAT. 1634 Tower Grove, 314-932-1088, elaiastl.com. $$$$

EVEREST CAFÉ & BAR A S I A N . 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, 314531-4800, everestcafeandbar.com. $$

FARMHAUS AMERICAN. 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 TUE–SAT. 3257 Ivanhoe, 314-6473800, farmhausrestaurant.com. $$$

FRITANGA NICARAGUAN. 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 DINNER TUE–SUN. 2208 S. Jefferson, 314-664-7777, fritangastl.net. $$

The Steaks by which all others are judged! HISTORIC SOULARD

2117 South 12th St. 314 772 5977

SOUTH COUNTY

3939 Union Rd. 314 845 2584

WEST COUNTY

14282 Manchester Rd. 636 227 8062 www.tuckersplacestl.com 16

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SCC THE GARDEN ON GRAND

HELEN FITZGERALD’S

LA PÂTISSERIE CHOUQUETTE

Sit at one of the most appealing bars in town and enjoy culinary adventures boasting thoughtful combinations of cultural flavors, colors, and textures. The patio features fire pits, hot drinks, and s’mores on chilly evenings. DINNER T UE–SAT, BRUNCH S U N . 2245 S. Grand, 314-898-3788, thegardenongrand.com. $$

BAR & GRILL. It’s a Syberg family restau-

rant, 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DA I LY. 3650 S. Lindbergh, 314-9840026, helenfitzgeralds.com. $$

B A K E R Y. Simone Faure’s Parisianthemed pastry shop specializes in authentic French croissants, macarons, tartes, éclairs, and unique special-occasion cakes. B R EA K FA ST A ND LUN C H T U E– SAT. 1626 Tower Grove, 314-932-7935, simonefaure.com. $

HODAK’S RESTAURANT

LA VALLESANA

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. LU N C H A N D DINNER DAILY. 2100 Gravois, 314-7767292, hodaks.com. $$

MEXICAN. What was once little more than a walk-up taco stand is now a full-fledged cantina. Seventy seats insideplus two patios (one covered) make this the liveliest spot on Cherokee Street for al pastor tacos, tortas, and homemade ice cream and paletas, plus horchatas, Mexican Coke, and Corona by the bucket. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 2801 Cherokee, 314-776-4223, facebook.com/lavallesana. $

AMERICAN.

SOUTHERN.

GRACE MEAT + THREE SOU THERN. Chef Rick Lewis throws down Southern-style cooking, with cracklin’ cornbread, fried catfish, and sweet tea-brined turkey legs. There are vegetarian offerings, too, like hot fried Mofu Tofu, topped with an egg and served with biscuits and vegetarian gravy. In-the-know guests still order the famous fried chicken that Lewis is known for, hot as Hades and served with grace. LUNCH AND DINNER WED – SUN. 4270 Manchester, 314-533-2700, stlgrace.com. $$

JJ TWIG’S PIZZA & PUB See “Multiple Locations.”

LAYLA JOE BOCCARDI’S RISTORANTE See “Multiple Locations.”

GRBIC

JOEY B’S

Friendly service and hearty food charm customers at this family-owned restaurant. Don’t miss ćevapi, 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 C H SAT– S U N, D I N N E R T U E – S U N. 4071 Keokuk, 314772-3100, grbicrestaurant.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

EUROPEAN.

GUERRILLA STREET FOOD A S I A N. Guerrilla Street Food maintains its street swagger and serves startlingly good food in its crisply delineated space at Arsenal and Grand. The place exudes energy, fueled by the tastiest street food this side of Manila. Everything is reasonably priced and expertly cooked. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT. 3559 Arsenal, 314-529-1328, guerrillastreetfood.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. B R E A K FA S T, L U N C H , A N D D I N N E R

3974 Hartford, 314-771-5282, hartfordcommunitycafe.com. $ DAILY.

KALBI TACO SHACK ASIAN. 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, and banh mi. LUNCH W E D – S U N . 2301 Cherokee, 314-2405544, kalbitcoshack.com. $

KING & I T H A I . The King and St. Louisans have been getting to know each another for decades. The city’s most renowned Thai eatery is roomy, sleek, and attractively lit. An extensive menu covers a great deal of Thai cuisine. Insiders order central Thai classics such as Bangkok kapow and red curry duck. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E – S U N. 3155 S. Grand, 314-771-1777, kingandistl.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–SAT. 3825 Watson, 314-781-4344, kounterkulturestl.com. $$

B A R & G R I L L . 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 DA I LY, B RU N C H SAT– S U N. 4317 Manchester, 314-553-9252, laylastl.com. $$

LEMMONS BY GRBIC AMERICAN. A beloved St. Louis dining landmark is totally renovated, yet it keeps the neighborhood feel of a beloved dining destination. It’s bright, fun, relaxed, and retains the same standard for “contentment food:” fried chicken, crab cakes, pastas, and Bosnian specialties that add a memorable twist. LU N C H SAT– S U N , DINNER T UE–SUN. 5800 Gravois, 314899-9898, lemmonsrestaurant.com. $$

LEMONGRASS V I E T N A M E S E . Imagine a cozy diner crossed with a first-rate Vietnamese eatery. LemonGrass is inviting and relaxed, offering a range of pho and other such fare. The sesame tofu has its charms. The specialty: clay hot pots layered with crusty-bottom baked rice, seafood, and a seductive soy–and– fish sauce gravy. LUNCH AND DINNER DA I LY . 3161 S. Grand, 314-664-6702, lemongrass-rest.com. $$

LONA’S LIL EATS A S I A N . Pining for Xishuangbanna eats? Lona serves her own version, Thai-Chinese food wrapped in giant rice wrappers. And don’t forget the su-

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SCC perb dumplings. This place is tiny and inevitably busy. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R TUE–SAT. 2199 California, 314-925-8938, lonaslileats.com. $

THE LONDON TEA ROOM CAFÉ . Banish thoughts of ladies sipping from 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 and toothsome sweets are so delicious, they may elicit this Dickensian request: “Please, sir, I want some more.” LUNCH DAILY, 3128 Morgan Ford, 314-2416556, thelondontearoom.com. $

LORUSSO’S CUCINA ITALIAN. 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. DINNER TUE–SUN. 3121 Watson, 314-647-6222, lorussos.com. $$$

platters of whole roasted fish and piles of shrimp and crab legs. The namesake chef, Pedro “El Gato” Diaz, has since departed to start his own restaurant (of the same name) on Gravois. LUNCH AND DINNER THU–TUE. 4561 Gravois, 314-282-0772; 2818 Cherokee, 314-449-1220. $$$

MESKEREM ETHIOPIAN. 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 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 take-and-bake stuffing. B R E A K FA S T A N D L U N C H T H U –T U E .

LULU’S LOCAL EATERY VEGETARIAN. 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. LU N C H AND DINNER MON–SAT, CHANGES SEA-

3201 S. Grand, 314-300-8215, luluslocaleatery.com. $ SONALLY.

2212 S. Jefferson, 314-833-0085, milquetoastbar.org. $

THE MUD HOUSE CAFÉ . 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 AND LUNCH DA I LY. 2101 Cherokee, 314-776-6599, themudhousestl.com. $

MANGIA ITALIANO I TA L I A N. What began in 1983 as a deli and small shop offering fresh pasta has become a neighborhood go-to serving a menu of inexpensive Italian dishes, including polenta fries, sandwiches, and house-made pastas. Choose a spot on the formal white-tableclothed side or on the casual side, marked by Formica tables, mismatched chairs, and the always-inprogress murals by local artist Wayne St. Wayne. Live music nightly. Late-night menu available. DINNER DAILY, LUNCH SAT, BRUNCH SUN. 3145 S. Grand, 314664-8585, dineatmangia.net. $$

MARISCOS EL GATO MEXICAN. Cherokee Street becomes a beach for this authentic surfside seafood shack. Low on frills, the restaurant puts the emphasis on spectacular overflowing

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NIXTA M E X I CA N . Traditional cucina ingredients are magically combined into small-plate presentations offering a whole new level of taste. The bar’s a good place to wait until dinner, which includes such dishes as empañadas stuffed with citrus-braised pork shoulder and the stunningly complex molè. DINNER TUE–SAT. 1621 Tower Grove, 314-899-9000, nixtastl.com. $

O’CONNELL’S PUB BAR & GRILL. 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 4652 Shaw, 314-773-6600, saucemagazine.com/oconnells. $

OLIO MEDITERRANEAN. Diminutive 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. $$

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 on-site. Stromboli, sandwiches, and pasta are served in an informal but elegant atmosphere. Mondays are popular for discounted sangrias. DINNER DAILY. 5401 Finkman, 314-8028883, onestopizza.com. $$

THE PALM TREES M I D D L E E A ST E R N . The metro area’s only Saudi restaurant subtitles itself “Middle Eastern,” because you’ll recognize tabbouleh, samosas, and baba ghanouj, as well as such Saudi-specific items as lamb mandi and kabsa. The legendary Saudi hospitality is on display, and you may eat sitting up or reclining at the table. LUNCH AND DINNER WED – S U N. 2837 Cherokee, 314-226-9243, thepalmtreesstl.com. $$

THE PASTA HOUSE CO. See “Multiple Locations.”

PHO GRAND V I E T N A M E S E . 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 chopstickfriendly sections. The atmosphere’s casual and comfortable, and the accessible eats are offered at attractive prices. LUNCH AND DINNER WED –MON. 3195 S. Grand, 314-664-7435, phogrand.com. $

PICCADILLY AT MANHATTAN A M E R I C A N . 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. LU N C H AND DINNER TUE–SAT. 7201 Piccadilly, 314-646-0016, thepiccadilly.com. $$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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TRADITIONAL BAVARIAN CUISINE • BEER • ENTERTAINMENT Opening Early 2018 Only 10 Minutes from Downtown St. Louis

BELLEVILLE, IL • I-255 EXIT 17A

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SCC PIETRO’S

ROBERTO’S TRATTORIA

SAUCE ON THE SIDE

Name six Italian-American entrées. You can bet Pietro’s has ’em—and more. A South City icon, the family-run restaurant dishes out pasta, steaks, veal, and seafood in a whitetablecloth room. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT. 3801 Watson, 314-645-9263, pietrosdining.com. $$

Ch e f R o b e r t o Z a n t i 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 miss the colorful mural of an Italian seaside in the back dining room. LUNCH TUE–FRI, DINNER TUE– SAT. 145 Concord Plaza, 314-842-9998, robertosstl.com. $$$

See “Multiple Locations.”

I TA L I A N.

PIZZA HEAD PIZZA . After Pizzeoli’s unbridled success with Neapolitan-style pies, New Jersey native Scott Sandler is tossing and topping 20-inch New York–style pies (whole and by the slice) on pizza-deprived South Grand. As at Pizzeoli, all toppings are vegetarian or vegan, but the pizza’s so authentic, the carnivores don’t care. LUNCH TUE–SAT, DINNER DAILY. 3196 S. Grand, 314-2665400. pizzaheadstl.com. $$

PIZZERIA TIVOLI P I Z Z A . The blistered and blissfully Provel-free pies pulled from a handbuilt 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?” DINNER T U E – S U N. 5861 S. Kingshighway, 314832-3222, pizzeriativolistl.com. $$

I TA L I A N .

ROOSTER

SHEESH RUSSELL’S CAFÉ & BAKERY See “Multiple Locations.”

RUSSELL’S ON MACKLIND CAFÉ. 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 ST

THE PURPLE MARTIN A M E R I CA N. Pair a sandwich or platter with one of a wide selection of local beers. Despite several chef and menu changes, The Purple Martin has become a gathering place in Fox Park. The restaurant’s easy to find; just look for the purple glow. DINNER DAILY. 2800 Shenandoah, 314-898-0011, thepurplemartinstl.com. $$

QUINCY STREET BISTRO AMERICAN. This everyday corner pub and dining destination serves fromscratch 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. $$

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5400 Murdoch, 314-553-9994, russellscafe.com. $$$ SAT.

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 DAILY. 5127 Hampton, 314-351-9000, pueblosolisstl.com. $$ MEXICAN.

DINING GUIDE 2017

BARBECUE . 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 2900 Virginia, 314-776-1407, theshavedduck.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

AND LUNCH, TUE–SUN, DINNER TUE–

PUEBLO SOLIS

THE SHAVED DUCK

SAMEEM 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. The exquisite flavors will bring you back for more. LUNCH AND DINNER T UE–SUN. 4341 Manchester, 314-534-9500, sameems.com. $$

SANCTUARIA SMALL PLATE S. Drink in the unusual artwork. Peruse an unreal menu of cocktails and an uncommon “wild tapas” menu. And consider reserving the garden patio and its refurbished French conservatory. LUNCH TUE–SAT, DINNER TUE–SUN, BRUNCH SUN. 4198 Manchester, 314-535-9700, sanctuariastl.com. $$

SASHA’S ON SHAW See “Multiple Locations.”

EUROPEAN. For nights when you crave outstanding Turkish food, Sheesh offers a completely casbah setting, copper dishes, and lounge-type 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 DA I LY. 3226 S. Grand, 314-833-4321, sheeshrestaurant.com. $$

SISTER CITIES CAJUN C A J U N / C R E O L E . 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. LU N C H A N D DINNER TUE–SUN. 3550 S. Broadway, 314-448-6013, sistercitiescajun.com. $$

SNAX GASTROBAR A M E R I CA N. OK, so they can’t spell, and “gastrobar” isn’t really a word. Nonetheless, the atmosphere’s comfortable and the food’s outstanding. Paired with a frosty craft beer, the roasted chicken or mushrooms and grits make for a perfect dinner. Be sure to start with an order of Buffalo Balls. DINNER TUE–SAT. 3500 Watson, 314-353-9463, snaxstl.com. $$

SOUTHWEST DINER D I N E R . 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 FA S T A N D LUNCH DAILY. 6803 Southwest, 314260-7244, southwestdinerstl.com. $

SALT + SMOKE See “Multiple Locations.” Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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SCC SPARE NO RIB!

and pizzas—something for everyone.

UNION LOAFERS

The barbecue joint delivers top-drawer ribs, pulled pork, burgers with pit beans, and fries that are hand-cut the same day. Throw in tacos and cachete (braised beef cheeks), and somehow it all works. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 3701 Jefferson, 314-354-8444, sparenorib.com. $$

LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H

B A K E R Y. Using fresh bread as its foundation, this bakery/café in Botanical Heights blends great food (sandwiches, salads, and soups) with a lively space. L U N C H W E D – S U N , D I N N E R W E D – SAT. 1629 Tower Grove, 314-833-6111, unionloafers.com. $

BA R B E C U E .

SPIRO’S See “Multiple Locations.”

3153 Morganford, 314-772-9800, threemonkeysrestaurant.com. $$ S U N.

TRATTORIA MARCELLA I TA L 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 – S AT. 3600 Watson, 314-352-7706, trattoriamarcella.com. $$

STACKED BURGER BAR AMERICAN. Tableside lists include bun selection, burger type, toppings, and extras. Or choose a preset burger from the creative menu. LU N C H A N D D I N NER DAILY. 7637 Ivory, 314-544-4900, stackedstl.com. $

THE STELLAR HOG B A R B E C U E . This former dive bar– turned–barbecue joint blends the best of both worlds in a family-friendly environment. Meltingly tender ribs, crispy smoked wings, brisket, smoked corned beef… It’s hard to choose just one of chef Alex Cupp’s barbecue offerings. Try the off-the-menu combo platter of mixed meats and sides, tailored to your taste. LUNCH AND DINNER THU– S U N . 5623 Leona, 314-481-8448, thestellarhog.com. $$

TRATTORIA TOSCANA I TA L I A N . 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. LU N C H M O N – F R I , D I N N E R M O N – SAT.

11686 Gravois, 314-849-1499, trattoria toscanastl.com. $$$

VEGETARIAN. With its lively patio, welldesigned dining room, and a quirky third-floor 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. LATE BREAKFAST AND

See “Multiple Locations.”

3177 S. Grand, 314-696 -2100, treehousestl.com. $$

SWEETART

TUCKER’S PLACE

CAFÉ . This husband-and-wife–owned

See “Multiple Locations.”

hideaway has visual treats and scratchbaked eats. Among local veggie burger options, the Sweet Burger remains our first love. B R E A K FA S T, LU N C H , A N D L AT E LU N C H T U E – SAT. 2203 S. 39th, 314-771-4278, sweetartstl.com. $

TACO CIRCUS M E X I C A N . This colorful restaurant features Austin-style street eats that are big on taste but light on the pocketbook. Try locally raised grass-fed beef, Berkshire pork, and farm eggs for tacos and fajitas. LUNCH AND DINNER WED M O N . 4258 Schiller, 314-320-8884, tacocircus.com. $

M E D I T E R R A N E A N . Pita is baked in this Lebanese restaurant’s attached bakery. Middle Eastern fare, from shawarma to kebabs, is authentic and generously portioned. The tabbouleh salad is famous. Oh, and two words: chocolate baklava. LU N C H A N D D I N NER DAILY. 3171 S. Grand, 314-776-0991, thevinestl.com. $$

VISTA RAMEN JA PA N E S E . Chef Chris Bork serves up steaming bowls of creative soup on Cherokee Street. Small plates and cocktails are equally compelling. DINNER MON–SAT, BRUNCH SUN. 2609 Cherokee, 314-797-8250, vistaramen.com. $$

TREE HOUSE

LU N C H T U E - S U N, D I N N E R T U E – S U N,

SUGARFIRE SMOKE HOUSE

THE VINE

B RU N C H S U N .

WALNUT GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

YAQUIS ON CHEROKEE P I Z Z A . 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 SAT, BRUNCH SUN. 2728 Cherokee, 314-400-7712, yaquispizza.com. $$

YOLKLORE TWISTED TREE STEAKHOUSE This relatively new steakhouse in Sunset Hills serves oldschool fare—family-style salads, longaged steaks, and batter-fried lobster tails—at its finest. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE-SAT. 10701 Watson, 314-394-3366, twistedtreesteakhouse.com. $$$$ STEAKHOUSE.

AMERICAN. This locally sourced little spot in Crestwood goes way beyond the expected breakfast chow, with falafel, sous-vide eggs, and housemade sausage. There are also a couple of sandwiches and a salad. Don’t miss the Chocolate Cake for Breakfast. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY. 8958 Watson, 314-270-8538, yolklore.com. $

THREE MONKEYS B A R & G R I L L . This Morganford staple serves fine pub grub: shareable appetizers, sandwiches, entrées,

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EXPERIENCE USDA PRIME STEAK LIKE NEVER BEFORE Reminiscent of a grand 1920s New York steakhouse and featuring USDA Prime-grade beef only, jet-fresh fish, innovative side dishes, and an award-winning wine list, 801 Chophouse sets the standard for exemplary service and cuisine. St. Louis loves 801 Chophouse’s Manhattan-style restaurant and bar, full of East Coast ambience. At 801 Chophouse, you’ll find the highest level of service from the best wait staff in St. Louis. Combined with a wonderful menu and atmosphere, you will have a dining experience you will never forget. The private and semi-private rooms at 801 Chophouse accommodate two to 40 people, so you and your guests will have a place to enjoy cuisine, wine, and conversation. 801 Chophouse’s world-class chef specializes in combining classic steakhouse dishes with modern and delicious favorites—and, of course, pairing dishes with a wine from the restaurant’s extensive list. 137 CARONDELET PLAZA, CLAYTON, MO 63105 (314) 875-9900 / 801CHOPHOUSE.COM

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NORTH CITY & COUNTY NCC

BIG BABY Q AND SMOKEHOUSE BARBECUE . The guy at the cash register is best known as a Chicago artist; his chef 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 TUE–SAT. 11658 Dorsett, 314-801-8888, bigbabyq.com. $$

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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DINING GUIDE 2017

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NCC ANGELO’S PIZZERIA P I Z ZA . If you have a hankering for a

thin-crust pizza with bubbly edges 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 baked in a square pan, so the pie perfectly fits in a square pizza box. LUNCH AND DINNER T UE– SUN . 4814 Parker, 314-355-3242. $$

CUGINO’S ITALIAN BAR AND GRILL 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 has set up operations inside, selling its four beers onsite. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1595 N. Highway 67, 314831-3222, dinecuginos.com. $$ I TA L I A N .

KASLIK MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE M E D I T E R R A N E A N . Thank ownerchef Wasem Hamed (of Layla and Ranoush) for serving some of the best Mediterranean food around. Carefully sourced authentic spices are part of the reason that the flavors are so bold. BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND DINNER DAILY. 7847 N. Lindbergh, 314972-8282. $$

BIG BABY Q AND SMOKEHOUSE See description on p. 23.

DRUNKEN FISH

LOMBARDO’S RESTAURANT

See “Multiple Locations.”

FREDERICK’S STEAKHOUSE & PIZZERIA

THE PASTA HOUSE CO.

CATHY’S KITCHEN A M E R I CA N. The food at this upbeat restaurant pingpongs across the map. Memphis-style gumbo, Texas chicken wings, and New Mexican fish tacos keep folks coming back. Save room for co-owner Cathy Jenkins’ homemade Dutch apple pie. Motown’s on the airwaves, and you’re traveling with the Jenkins family. Enjoy. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 250 S. Florissant, 314-524-9200, cjenkins company.com. $

The menu at this family-owned restaurant 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 Famous-Barr’s legendary French onion soup alone are worth the visit. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 12490 St. Charles Rock Road, 314-733-5500, fredericksstl.com. $$$

CHARLIE GITTO’S See “Multiple Locations.”

CHEF MA’S CHINESE GOURMET RESTAURANT C H I N E S E . The most startlingly authentic Chinese eatery in town serves fare that’s unequaled locally, like Hainan chicken and Hakka-style fried rice. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 2336 Woodson, 314-395-8797. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

STEAKHOUSE.

PEARL CAFÉ T H A I . 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 sampling dishes of increasing hotness. There are also more than 200 beers and 125 single-malt Scotch selections. LUNCH AND DINNER MON– SAT. 8416 N. Lindbergh, 314-831-3701, dinepearlcafe.com. $$

GOODY GOODY DINER D I N E R . 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, goodygoodydiner.com. $

PUEBLO NUEVO MEXICAN. This 30-year-old mainstay delivers such memorable Mexican specialties as birria, a hearty goat stew. Try chilaquiles, a layered tortilla casserole, or the classic rojo posole. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 7401 N. Lindbergh, 314-831-6885. $$

SWEETIE PIE’S COMPANION CAFÉ See “Multiple Locations.”

CORK WINE BAR Several wine options are offered at controlled temperatures for optimal tasting. Sample fondue, veal shanks, or popcorn. The shrimp and polenta and bacon hash pair perfectly, no matter the selection. DINNER TUE– SUN. 423 S. Florissant, 314-521-9463, corkferguson.com. $$ W I N E BA R .

CROWN CANDY KITCHEN This St. Louis institution has been serving up housemade chocolate candy and ice cream since 1913. The Heart Stopping BLT features almost a pound of kettlecooked bacon. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R MON–SAT. 1401 St. Louis, 314-621-9650, crowncandykitchen.net. $

HENDEL’S MARKET CAFÉ & WINE BAR

See “Multiple Locations.”

A M E R I CA N . This family-owned restaurant is housed in a historic brick building with a covered porch and ivydraped 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 tobacco-onion remoulade. If you’re there for brunch, grab a mimosa for $2.25. LUNCH AND DINNER T UE–SAT, B RU N C H S U N . 599 St. Denis, 314-8372304, hendelsrestaurant.com. $$

TAQUERIA DURANGO

AMERICAN.

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INDIA PALACE INDIAN. The menu offers some of the best Indian cuisine around. The lamb vindaloo and chicken tikka masala are outstanding. LUNCH BUFFET AND DINN E R DA I LY. 4334 N. Lindbergh, 314731-3333, indiapalaceairport.com. $$

MEXICAN. As with many such hole-inthe-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 C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 10238 Page, 314-429-1113. $

VINCENZO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT ITALIAN. Warm and intimate, Vincenzo’s features a classic Italian menu, a full-service bar, great beers, and a approachable wine list. Daily specials and “soups of the moment” provide a counterpoint to Italian standards. LUNCH TUE–FRI, DINNER TUE–SUN. 242 S. Florissant, 314-524-7888, vincenzosstl.com. $$

DINING GUIDE 2017

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Fresh. Authentic. Delicious. You don’t have to go far to enjoy the exotic flavors of Asia—a unique culinary experience that features true Vietnamese favorites and Pan-Asian cuisine.

RSL

Job #

97974

Title Version

ONE AMERISTAR BLVD ST. CHARLES, MO 63301 | 636.949.7777 | Media Type

Trim / Flat width x height

6x4.8125

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Round

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Scale: 1/1

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DINING GUIDE 2017

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CENTRAL WEST END CWE

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-and-wife team come from Blue Hill at Stone Barns, the James Beard Award’s Restaurant of the Year in 2015, so expect good things. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER TUE–SAT. 4260 Forest Park, viciarestaurant.com. $$$

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DINING GUIDE 2017

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Dinner Monday thru Saturday Mondays are Chef’s Choice Prix Fixe 3-Course Dinner pangeaworldfusion.com · (636) 757-3579 3245 Rue Royale, St. Charles, MO 63301 (In New Town next to the volleyball courts)

BEST BBQ IN U-CITY TOP 10 BBQ IN MISSOURI ALIVE MAGAZINE /YELP, 2016

BEST U-CITY RESTAURANT TRIPADVISOR, 2014–2015

BEST BBQ IN ST. LOUIS STL MAGAZINE A-LIST, 2014

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VERNONSBBQ.COM DINING GUIDE 2017

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CWE 1764 PUBLIC HOUSE

THE BLOCK

Like a trip downtown—and downriver—Lucas and Derek Gamlin’s third restaurant along Euclid Avenue is a paean to the city’s French history, founding year (1764), and flavors (Crawfish Toasted Ravioli, Cajun Char Crust Ribeye). When the window walls open, you can almost hear the steamboat whistles howl. B R E A K FA ST, LU N C H , A N D D I N NER DAILY. 39 N. Euclid, 314-405-8221, 1764pub.com. $$$

See “Multiple Locations.”

AMERICAN.

THE BOATHOUSE A M E R I C A N . 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. LUNCH AND DINN E R DA I LY, B RU N C H S U N, C H A N G E S

THE BBQ SALOON

6101 Government, Forest Park, 314-367-2224, boathouse forestpark.com. $$ S E A S O N A L LY.

BARBECUE. Owners Phil and Tracy Czar-

nec, 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, 314-8336666, bbqsaloonstl.com. $$

BAR ITALIA I TA L I A N. Come spring, enjoy a gentle breeze and a Negroni 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 people-watching. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN, BRUNCH SAT

13 Maryland Plaza, 314-361-7010, baritaliastl.com. $$$ & SUN.

BLK MKT EATS

F R E N C H . Chef Gerard 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. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SAT & SUN. 4580 Laclede, 314454-0600, brasseriebyniche.com. $$$

CAFÉ OSAGE AMERICAN. 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. B R E A K FA ST AND LUNCH DAILY. 4605 Olive, 314-4546868, bowoodfarms.com. $$

Burrito-size sushi rolls are stuffed with such ingredients as buttermilk fried chicken; housecured salmon; and kimchi slaw, jalapeños, and shrimp tempura. Oh, and there’s Puck’s artisanal soda. Yes, it’s weird. But you’re going to enjoy it—and you can do so until 2 a.m. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 9 S. Vandeventer, 314304-8420, blkmkteats.com. $$

CENTRAL TABLE AMERICAN. This cavernous hall is popu-

lated 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. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH MON–FRI. 23 S. Euclid, 314-449-1600, centraltablestl.com. $$$

JAPANESE/SUSHI.

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BAR & GRILL . 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. LUNCH M O N – SAT, D I N N E R DA I LY, B R U N C H

419 N. Euclid, 314-361-1060, dresselspublichouse.com. $$

DRUNKEN FISH See “Multiple Locations.”

EL BURRO LOCO MEXICAN. Hark back to the days when such places as Chi-Chi’s and Casa Gallardo introduced Mexican food to the mass market, with fajitas, chimichangas, and other then-exotic menu offerings. Toss in the wackiest and most whimsical Mexican décor in town, as well as fishbowl-size margaritas. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 313 N. Euclid, 314-224-5371. $$

EVANGELINE’S BISTRO C A J U N / C R E O L E . Enjoy nightly live music and food, both of which lean toward Louisiana traditions. It’s a fine spot for a leisurely brunch with New Orleans–style eye-openers like brandy milk punch and a Ramos gin fizz. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH

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 MON–SAT, BRUNCH SUN. Missouri History Museum, 5700 Lindell, 314-361-7313, bixbys-mohistory.com. $$ AMERICAN.

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DRESSEL’S PUBLIC HOUSE

SUN.

BRASSERIE BY NICHE

BIXBY’S

And the Chase Club provides a more affordable dining option, with a patio beside the iconic pool. SEE WEB SITE FOR HOURS. 212 N. Kingshighway, 314-6333000, sonesta.com. $$–$$$$

DINING GUIDE 2017

512 N. Euclid, 314-367-3644, evangelinesstl.com. $$ SUN.

GAMLIN WHISKEY HOUSE STEAKHOUSE. Whiskey for dinner? Genius! If you want something more than the myriad labels available, the restaurant can fix you up with prime rib, chicken and waffles, or shrimp and grits. LUNCH AND D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H SAT & S U N .

236 N. Euclid, 314-875-9500, gamlin whiskeyhouse.com. $$$

THE CHASE PARK PLAZA ROYAL SONESTA ST. LOUIS

HANDCRAFTED BY BISSINGER’S

The Tenderloin Room is known for seared steaks and sauced pepperloin à la tenderloin, gentle refinement, and stellar service. The Preston is old-style cool and sophisticated, with a serious bar and elevated small plates, including the beautiful charred octopus.

W I N E B A R . What’s not to like about an attractive café, chocolate shop, and cocktail/wine bar? The wine preservation system is worth the trip alone. B R E A KFAST, LUNCH, AND DINNER DAILY. 32 Maryland Plaza, 314-367-7750, hand craftedbybissingers.com. $$

AMERICAN.

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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CWE JUNIPER

PI PIZZERIA

THE SCOTTISH ARMS

Juniper feels like a pop-up restaurant that (fortunately) decided 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 – SAT. 360 N. Boyle, 314329-7696, junipereats.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

B A R & G R I L L . 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.

SOUTHERN.

KINGSIDE DINER

PIG & PICKLE AMERICAN. Folksy meets fine dining here

with deliciously inventive combinations, such as shrimp-and-cabbage-stuffed squid and brisket jambalaya. Though there’s a chicken-and-biscuit Southern accent, the collection of small plates bounces all over the culinary landscape. The scene (formerly Atlas) is cozily urbane. DINNER TUE–SAT, BRUNCH SAT & S U N . 5513 Pershing , 314-349-1697, pigandpickleeatery.com. $$

LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH

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

SUB ZERO VODKA BAR A M E R I CA N /S U S H I . Burgers and sushi are paired with 500-plus vodkas. It’s enough to please even the most discriminating connoisseur. A frozendrink rail, sports TVs, and energetic music add up to a hip atmosphere.

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. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY. 4651 Maryland , 314 - 454 -3957, kingsidediner.com. $

ASIAN. The city’s first poke shop offers half a dozen build-it-your-way protein options atop hot rice, cold noodles, fresh greens, or fried wonton chips. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 8 S. Euclid, 314833-5900, pokedokestl.com. $$

LITTLE SAIGON CAFÉ

RETREAT GASTROPUB

VIETNAMESE. This snug spot serves Sai-

See “Multiple Locations.”

The menu is described as “scratch-made American pub food with a modern twist,” one being that half the items are vegetarian (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 SAT & SUN. 2 N. Sarah, 314-261-4497, retreatgastropub.com. $$

MARY ANN’S TEA ROOM

SCAPE

VICIA

Yes, the CWE has a place to have high tea. But for that experience, 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 lunch in a greenhouse space. Do wear something nice, dear. LUNCH AND HIGH TEA TUE–SUN. 4732 McPherson, 314-361-5303, maryannstearoom.com. $$

Among the reasons to visit: candlelight, starched linens, a tuckedaway courtyard patio, impeccable service, great drinks, and seasonal cuisine, including English pea risotto and wildcaught striped bass. The Sunday brunch is among the best around; consider the Farmers Cheese Pancakes, with blueberries, ricotta, and lemon curd. D I N N E R TUE–SAT, BRUNCH SUN. 48 Maryland Plaza, 314-361-7227, scapestl.com. $$$$

See description on p. 26.

A M E R I CA N.

POKE DOKE

LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH

308 N. Euclid, 314-367-1200, subzerovodkabar.com. $$ SAT & SUN.

TASTE

gon-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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 10 N. Euclid, 314-361-8881, littlesaigoncafe.com. $$

LLYWELYN’S PUB

CAFÉ .

MISSION TACO JOINT

AMERICAN.

See “Multiple Locations.”

S M A L L P L AT E S . 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. D I N N E R DA I LY. 4584 Laclede, 314-361-1200, tastebarstl.com. $$

THE TAVERN KITCHEN & BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

TAZÉ MEDITERRANEAN STREET FOOD See “Multiple Locations.”

WEST END GRILL & PUB BA R & G R I L L . 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 postshow drink. LUNCH M O N – F R I , D I N N E R D A I LY, B R U N C H

354 N. Boyle, 314-531-4607, westendgrillandpub.com. $ SAT & SUN.

SCARLETT’S WINE BAR PANORAMA Located in the Saint Louis Art Museum, Panorama is elegant without pretense. The menu emphasizes seasonally changing cuisine. There’s also a weekend brunch, with French toast and frittatas. LU N C H T U E S – F R I , B RU N C H SAT–SUN. 1 Fine Arts, Forest Park, 314655-5490, slam.org. $$ AMERICAN.

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

DiningGuide_1217.indd 29

W I N E B A R . 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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R D A I LY. 4253 Laclede, 314-797-8223. $$

WILD FLOWER RESTAURANT & BAR AMERICAN. When you can’t agree on a dining destination, go here. It has everything: bison steak, roast duck, wild mushroom fettuccine—and one of the best patios around. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H SAT &

4590 Laclede, 314-367-9888, wildflowerstl.com. $$$

SUN.

DINING GUIDE 2017

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DOGTOWN & THE HILL DTH ANTHONINO’S TAVERNA

FELIX’S PIZZA PUB

JOEY B’S

ITALIAN/GREEK. With a friendly staff

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 televisions and lots of activity, but it’s all part of the fun. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 6401 Clayton, 314-645-6565, felixspizzapub.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

and recent 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. L U N C H & D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 2225 Macklind, 314-773-4455, anthoninos.com. $$

PIZZA .

BARTOLINO’S See “Multiple Locations.”

FIVE BISTRO

The exterior’s unassuming. Inside, the décor’s minimalist. Tables are filled with fans of such dishes as the Tenderloin Modiga, trout, pastas, and cheesecake cassata. LUNCH TUE– FRI, DINNER TUE–SUN. 3073 Watson, 314-481-5464. $$$

AMERICAN. 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. DINNER TUE–SAT, LUNCH SAT. 5100 Daggett, 314-773-5553, fivebistro.com. $$$$

CHARLIE GITTO’S

GIAN-TONY’S

See “Multiple Locations.”

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. D I N N E R DAILY. 5356 Daggett, 314-772-4893, gian-tonys.com. $$$

BRAZIE’S RISTORANTE ITALIAN.

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. LUNCH TUE–FRI; DINNER TUE– S U N. 5453 Magnolia, 314-781-1135, cunetto.com. $$

DOMINIC’S ON THE HILL Open since 1971, Dominic’s personifies an Old World–to–New World transition marked by teams of attentive servers, classic recipes, and a romantic atmosphere. DINNER MON–SAT. 5101 Wilson, 314-771-1632, dominicsrestaurant.com. $$$$ ITALIAN.

FAVAZZA’S I TA L I A N . The best reason to visit this nearly 40-year-old 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, 314-7724454, favazzas.com $$

GUIDO’S PIZZERIA & TAPAS ITALIAN/SMALL PLATES. Pizza and paella on the same menu? Sure. After finishing some traditional-style tapas, try the St. Louis–style pizza, which is way more than just an afterthought. 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. $$

J. SMUG’S GASTROPIT BARBECUE . Eat in or carry out at this cute-as-heck redone mid-20th-century gas station that features all of the usual barbecue suspects, as well as such specialties as smoked meatballs. (Hey, it’s on The Hill!) There’s also a salad dressing-like “Bianca” to complement the KC-, Memphis-, and Carolina-style sauces and a good selection of local craft beer. LUNCH AND DINNER WED – S U N . 2130 Macklind, 314-499-7488, jsmugsgastropit.com. $$

LORENZO’S TRATTORIA ITALIAN. 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. DINNER DA I LY. 1933 Edwards, 314-773-2223, lorenzostrattoria.com. $$$

THE PAT CONNOLLY TAVERN 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. LUNCH A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B R U N C H SAT &

6400 Oakland, 314-647-7387, patconnollytavern.com. $$ 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. BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND DINNER MON–SAT. 4945 Daggett, 314-7724900, rigazzis.com. $$

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. LUNCH AND DINNER DA I LY. 1208 Tamm, 314-645-6337, seamusmcdaniels.com. $$

ZIA’S ITALIAN. A Hill stalwart, 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. L U N C H A N D DINNER MON–SAT. 5356 Wilson, 314776-0020, zias.com. $$

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UNIVERSITY CITY & THE DELMAR LOOP UCD

VIETNAM STYLE VIETNAMESE . This bright, cheery addition to the East Loop offers both Vietnamese standards and steak specialties. The signature bo ne is highly recommended. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E â&#x20AC;&#x201C; S U N. 6100 Delmar, 314-405-8348. $$

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DINING GUIDE 2017

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8958 WATSON RD 6am-2pm MON-FRI + 7am-2pm SAT - SUN 314.270.8538 | YOLKLORE.COM

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UCD ASIAN KITCHEN KOREAN CUISINE

COLLEEN’S

HOUSE OF INDIA

It’s best known for 15-plus banchan (side dishes) that come with each entrée. Equally impressive are the varieties of bibimbap, which rival those of our favorite restaurants in L.A.’s Koreatown. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 8423 Olive, 314-989-9377, asiankitchenstl.com. $

What began as a custom cookie bakery (and a darn 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. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DA I LY. 7337 Forsyth, 314-727-8427, colleenscookies.com. $

INDIAN. 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 also available for feasting at home. And the restaurant is vegetarian-friendly. LUNCH BUFFET AND DINNER DAILY. 8501 Delmar, 314567-6850, hoistl.com. $$

KO R E A N .

BLUEBERRY HILL AMERICAN. This Loop landmark is known for its pop culture memorabilia and darts tournaments. But it’s also a destination for hearty bar food, allday breakfast, and a late-night menu. Live music is featured in the downstairs Duck Room. LUNCH AND DINNER DA I LY. 6504 Delmar, 314-727-4444, blueberryhill.com. $

BOBO NOODLE HOUSE ASIAN. An AIA award–winning space, Bobo serves such notable dishes as crispy pork spring rolls with a limesoy 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. LUNCH AND DINNER MON– SAT. 278 N. Skinker, 314-863-7373, bobonoodle.com. $

CATE ZONE CAFÉ This star in the happy new constellation of local Chinese eateries caters to fans of legitimate regional cuisine. The hearty noodles and thick stews are gaining fans daily. It’s bright, friendly, and invariably crowded. For dessert, the spun sugar dish is essential. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 8146 Olive, 314-738-9923. $$ CHINESE.

CORNER 17 CHINESE. 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DA I LY. 6623 Delmar, 314-727-2402, corner17usa.com. $

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AMERICAN.

DEWEY’S PIZZA See “Multiple Locations.”

JILLY’S CUPCAKE BAR & CAFÉ See “Multiple Locations.”

ECLIPSE A M E R I C A N . 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. B R E A K FA S T, L U N C H , A N D D I N N E R

6177 Delmar, 314-726-2222, eclipsestlouis.com. $$ DA I LY.

FITZ’S AMERICAN. Known for its root beer and bottling line, Fitz’s offers a full menu of classic American food. 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 6605 Delmar, 314-7269555, fitzsrootbeer.com. $

FORK & STIX T H A 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E – S U N . 549 Rosedale, 314-863-5572, forknstix.com. $

KAYAK’S BY KALDI’S COFFEE See “Multiple Locations.”

LULU SEAFOOD & DIM SUM ASIAN. 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 pull out all the stops for the weekend carts. And karaoke is available in English, Chinese, and Korean. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 8224 Olive, 314-997-3108, luluseafood.com. $$

MISSION TACO JOINT See “Multiple Locations.”

MOMOS OUZARIA TAVERNA 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. L U N C H M O N – S AT, D I N N E R D A I LY.

630 North & South, 314-863-3511, momosgreekrestaurant.com. $

NOBU’S JAPANE SE/SUSHI. 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:

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UCD seasoned rice, chicken, and vegetables steamed in a pot. D I N N E R TUE–SAT. 8643 Olive, 314-997-2303, nobusushistl.com. $$

THE PASTA HOUSE CO. See “Multiple Locations.”

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 memorabilia, and the tiered diner counters mimic a peacock’s feathers. The diner never closes, so you can shake your tail feathers all night long. OPEN 24 HOURS. 6261 Delmar, 314-7215555, peacockloopdiner.com. $

PHO LONG VIETNAMESE. This no-nonsense noodle joint is short on menu items but long on righteous flavor. Pho Long is an outpost 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. LUNCH AND DINNER WED –MON. 8627 Olive, 314-997-1218. $

PI PIZZERIA See “Multiple Locations.”

weather is nice. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 6707 Vernon, 314-726-1227, vernonsbbq.com. $$

LA PIZZA P I Z Z A . Heralded by many as serving 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 8137 Delmar, 314-725-1230, lapizzamenu.com. $$

VIETNAM STYLE See description on p. 32.

WINSLOW’S HOME A M E R I C A 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 sandwich. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH T UE–SUN, DINNER

PÚBLICO 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. DINNER TUE– S U N . 6679 Delmar, 314-833-5780, publicostl.com. $$$ PAN-LATIN.

7213 Delmar, 314-725-7559, winslowshome.com. $$ TUE–SAT.

WONTON KING C H I N E S E . 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, Singapore-style fried vermicelli, and cashew chicken. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 8116 Olive, 314-567-9997, wontonkingsaintlouis.com. $$

SALT + SMOKE See “Multiple Locations.”

PRIVADO A M E R I CA N . Owner/chef Mike Randolph’s envelope-pushing weekendsonly, reservations-only tasting menu restaurant also features open bar service with limited á la carte items. D I N N E R F R I – S A T, P L U S P R I VA T E

6665 Delmar, 314-899-9221, privadostl.com. $$$$ EVENTS.

PRIVATE KITCHEN C H I N E S E . 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 particularly attractive, but everything at this unusual place is memorable. DINNER W E D – M O N , BY R E S E RVAT I O N O N LY.

8106 Olive, 314-989-0283. $$

SEOUL TACO See “Multiple Locations.”

SOUP DUMPLINGS STL CHINESE. Private Kitchen’s Lawrence Chen brings a first to the metro area: an eatery devoted to xiao long bao, or “soup dumplings.” Choose from four varieties—beef, chicken, crab, or pork—and check out the daily offerings in the cases. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 8110 Olive, 314-445-4605. $

THREE KINGS PUBLIC HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

VERNON’S BBQ & CATERING BARBECUE . 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

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CLAYTON CT

SARDELLA ITALIAN. Gerard Craftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest endeavor features creative yet comforting Italian-influenced fare at lunch and dinner, as well as house-baked pastries, grain bowls, and riffs on morning meal classics at breakfast time. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SAT & SUN. 7734 Forsyth, 314-862-6603, nichestlgroup.com. $$

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DINING GUIDE 2017

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We C a t e r !

Healthy, Delicious, Convenient Grab & Go Meals

NO Meat

NO Dairy

LOW Sodium

LOW Sugar

NO Oil

NO Preservatives

Multiple St. Louis Locations â&#x20AC;¢ fredricky.com

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CT 801 CHOPHOUSE This restaurant is a throwback to the days when greencoated servers pushed guéridon carts through fine dining rooms. A magnificent oval bar anchors the restaurant, the fifth location of the Des Moines, Iowa–based chain. DINNER DAILY. 137 Carondelet Plaza, 314-875-9900, 801restaurant group.com/st-louis. $$$$ STEAKHOUSE.

801 FISH S E A F O O D. 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. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY. 172 Carondelet Plaza, 314-875-9636, 801fish.com. $$$$

whether to make a first impression or to celebrate a special occasion. DINNER MON–SAT. 7637 Wydown, 314-725-8880, barlesfreres.net. $$$

BILLIE-JEAN AMERICAN. A stone’s throw from owner Zoë Robinson’s other two restaurants (I Fratellini and Bar Les Fréres) is her newest, named after her parents. The culinary focus is American and Asian; the black walls and white accents conjure a 1940s New York supper club. DINNER TUE–SAT. 7610 Wydown, billejeanstl.com. $$$

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, DINNER MON–SAT. 7754 Forsyth, 314-863-5731, cafenapoli.com. $$$

CANTINA LAREDO MEXICAN. The St. Louis outpost 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 order some freshly made guacamole. Don’t miss the generous happyhour specials. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 7710 Forsyth, 314-725-2447, cantinalaredo.com. $$

AMERICAN. 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 DAI-

12 N. Meramec, Clayton, 314-727-4141, avestl.com. $$$ LY, BRUNCH SAT & SUN.

BARCELONA TAPAS RESTAURANT SMALL PLATES. This high-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 DINNER DAILY. 34 N. Central, 314863-9909, barcelonatapas.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 Zoë Robinson.) One of the most romantic restaurants in town, the tiny storefront is the perfect spot for a glass of Champagne,

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See “Multiple Locations.”

DEMUN OYSTER BAR S E A F O O D. This diminutive on-trend oyster bar wows with its rotating selection of fresh bivalves, killer chowders, and array of wines, craft cocktails, and beer. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H

demunoysterbar.com. $$

I TA L I A N.

On the increasingly competitive fried-chicken scene, this popular inexpensive haunt—which also boasts many notable New Orleans–influenced dishes—continues to shine. L U N C H T U E – F R I , D I N N E R TUE–SAT. 8127 Maryland, 314-725-1019, almondsrestaurant.com. $$

AVENUE

CRUSHED RED URBAN BAKE AND CHOP SHOP

SAT & SUN. 740 DeMun, 314-725-0322,

CAFÉ NAPOLI

ALMONDS RESTAURANT AMERICAN.

is not to be missed. LU N C H M O N – F R I , D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 7823 Forsyth, 314721-7375, fialafood.com/the-crossing. $$$$

THE CAPITAL GRILLE STEAKHOUSE . Dry-aged beef, luxurious seafood, and meticulous service are specialties at this high-end addition to the Clayton dining scene. The wine selection is award-winning. At lunchtime, consider the lobster-and-crab burger. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–FRI, DINNER SAT & SUN. 101 S. Hanley, 314725-0930, thecapitalgrille.com. $$$$

CITY COFFEE HOUSE & CRÊPERIE CAFÉ . Ann Gallardo’s European café serves specialty breakfast, lunch, and dessert crêpes; homemade pastries; sandwiches; salads; and soups. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY. 36 N. Brentwood, 314-862-2489, citycoffee andcreperie.com. $

DOMINIC’S TRATTORIA I TA L I A N . Tucked in the bottom of a Clayton condo, Dominic’s has remained one of the most beloved Chicken Parm 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. $$$

EXTRA BRUT A M E R I CA N. The region’s sole champagne-only bar combines a speakeasy vibe with sparkling wines from around the world, including several by the glass. The limited small-plates menu includes raw bar items and broiled oysters. DINNER FRI–SAT. 16 S. Bemiston, 314-669-9170, extrabrutstl.com. $$

FIVE STAR BURGERS See “Multiple Locations.”

THE GRILL AMERICAN. Oh, so classy. Dinner is an experience, surrounded by dark wood and white tablecloths, with superb presentations and sterling-silver service. Seafood, steaks, and a dazzling wine selection combine seamlessly for meals that are consistent with everything else at The Ritz. DINNER WED –SAT. The RitzCarlton, 100 Carondelet, 314-863-6300, ritzcarlton.com. $$$$

HALF & HALF THE CROSSING 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

See “Multiple Locations.”

EU R O P E A N.

HERBIE’S In late 2016, Herbie’s, along with many of the legendary posters and mirrors, moved from the Central West AMERICAN.

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CT End to the former Cardwell’s in Clayton space. Expect the same signature dishes, as well as a refined version of Midwest comfort food with French influences, including some tableside presentations. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY, B RU N C H SAT & S U N. 8100 Maryland, 314-769-9595, herbies.com. $$$

I FRATELLINI A longtime staple, Zoë 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 M O N – F R I , D I N N E R M O N – S AT. 7624 Wydown, 314-727-7901, ifratellini.com. $$$ ITALIAN.

KALDI’S See “Multiple Locations.”

THE LIBERTINE AMERICAN. With some refining, the fare is a bit 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. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY. 7927 Forsyth, 314-862-2999, libertinestl.com. $$$

LOUIE ITALIAN. On DeMun Avenue in Clayton, renowned restaurateur Matt McGuire rekindles some of the magic of the former King Louie’s, where an all-star kitchen crew executing his vision of a neighborhood Italian restaurant, boasting items like wood-roasted black cod and tonnarelli with morels, favas, and asiago. LU N C H M O N - F R I , D I N N E R M O N – S AT . 706 DeMun, louiedemun.com. $$

colors of the Mexican flag). LUNCH AND D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 7810 Forsyth, 314833-8200, mayanamex.com. $

OCEANO BISTRO S E A FO O D. 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-andbe-seen spots. Call ahead for a window seat. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. 44 N. Brentwood, 314-7219400, oceanobistro.com. $$$

THE RESTAURANT AMERICAN. The owners wasted no energy coming up with a clever name and instead put it all into the cool, dark décor, with an iceberg-sized 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. BREAKFAST DAILY, LUNCH MON–SAT.

The Ritz-Carlton, 100 Carondelet, 314863-6300, ritzcarlton.com. $$$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE PARIGI 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 DINNER T UE-SAT. 8025 Bonhomme, 314-8999767, parigistl.com. $$$$

See “Multiple Locations.”

EUROPEAN.

PASTARIA I TA L I A N . A wide selection of housemade organic pastas account for the bulk of the menu at this familyfocused Italian dining hall. Wood-fired pizzas and veggie-centric apps make up the rest. The reasonable prices mean that you can enjoy some gelato, too.

SARDELLA See description on p. 36.

SASHA’S WINE BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

SAUCE ON THE SIDE See “Multiple Locations.”

TANI SUSHI BISTRO JAPANE SE/SUSHI. After a move, the sushi spot benefits from a larger space that retains the lounge-like feel of the original. Sushi is fine, particularly the rolls; consider, though, specialties like tempura and teriyaki. LU N C H M O N – F R I , D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 7726 Forsyth, 314-296-8069, tanisushi.com. $$

LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H

WASABI SUSHI BAR

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

See “Multiple Locations.”

SAT & SUN.

WICKED GREENZ PENO 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. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER TUE– SUN, BRUNCH SUN. 7600 Wydown, 314899-9699, penosoulfood.com. $$

AMERICAN. A new fast casual concept from fine dining chef Justin Haifley (formerly of The Tavern and Cucina Pazzo) features healthy grab-and-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. LU N C H A N D D I N NER DAILY. 16 N. Central, 314-727-2772, wickedgreenz.com. $

MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SAT

REMY’S KITCHEN & WINE BAR

WHITEBOX EATERY

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

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. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER MON– SAT. 222 S. Bemiston, 314-726-5757, remyskitchen.com. $$$

A M 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. BREAK-

LOUIE’S WINE DIVE A M E R I C A N . 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. LUNCH & SUN.

MAYANA MEXICAN KITCHEN MEXICAN. Hacienda restaurant’s first foray into the fast casual realm boasts fresh street tacos, salads, bowls, and quesadillas—all with ultra speedy service. Try the Wet Burrito, topped with queso and red and green sauces (the

ITALIAN.

A M E R I CA N .

FAST AND LUNCH DAILY, BRUNCH SAT

176 Carondelet Plaza, 314-8622802, whiteboxeatery.com. $ & SUN.

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LADUE, FRONTENAC, CREVE COEUR & OLIVETTE LFCO

NUDO HOUSE JAPANESE . At Qui Tran’s long-awaited restaurant, you’ll find a happy fusion of the noodle dish’s classic version mixed with innovative riffs. Try a pho dip with a banh mi sandwich or a traditional miso pork ramen. The mid-county location’s perfect for lunch; lines aren’t as long for dinner. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT. 11423 Olive, 314-274-8046. $$

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LFCO BRICKTOP’S This attractively appointed, dimly lit place near Plaza Frontenac 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA ILY. 10342 Clayton, 314-567-6300, bricktops.com/st-louis. $$$ AMERICAN.

DAVE & TONY’S PREMIUM BURGER JOINT 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 12766 Olive, 314-439-5100, daveandtonys.com. $ AMERICAN.

BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE ITALIAN. Lots of marble, drapes, and warm colors lend a lush Mediterranean touch at this popular chain. The fare includes Americanized Italian favorites, with some superior pasta dishes and grilled specialties. Go early and hang out at the bar or the popular patio. After dinner, try the seasonally flavored bread pudding. LUNCH

EDGEWILD BISTRO & TAP

A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B R U N C H SAT &

A M E R I CA N . 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. $$

1601 S. Lindbergh, 314-432-4410, brioitalian.com. $$$

FIVE STAR BURGERS

SUN.

See “Multiple Locations.”

BRISTOL SEAFOOD GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

FRED AND RICKY’S See “Multiple Locations.”

CANYON CAFÉ AMERICAN. 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1707 S. Lindbergh, 314-872-3443, canyoncafe.com. $$

CARDWELL’S ATTHE PLAZA A M E R I C A N . 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 superior meals. 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, 314-997-8885, billcardwell.com/ cardwells.html. $$$

COMPANION CAFÉ

FLEMING’S PRIME STEAKHOUSE & WINE BAR S T E A K H O U S E . What distinguishes Fleming’s from other high-end steako-ramas? 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. DI NNE R DAILY. 1855 S. Lindbergh, 314-567-7610, flemingssteakhouse.com. $$$$

HUMBLE PIE PIZZA. Owned by Fozzies’ Mark Lucas, the successor to Red-L Pizza plays the pizza game a little differently, offering very thin homemade crusts, generously and imaginatively topped, from a small takeout window down a brick walkway. Don’t miss the pie pops for dessert. DINNER DAILY. 9783 Clayton, 314-997-7070, eatthehumblepie.com. $$

IL BEL LAGO ITALIAN. Among West County’s upscale formal 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. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER MON–SAT. 11631 Olive, 314-994-1080, bellagostl.com. $$$

KREIS’ STEAKHOUSE & BAR STEAKHOUSE. 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. DINNER DAILY. 535 S. Lindbergh, 314993-0735, kreisrestaurant.com. $$$$

LA BONNE BOUCHÉE C A F É . 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. B R E A KFA S T A N D L U N C H D A I LY, D I N N E R

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. LUNCH TUE–FRI, D I N N E R T U E – S U N . 8831 Ladue, 314721-4100, giovanniskitchenstl.com. $$$

See “Multiple Locations.”

12344 Olive, 314-576-6606, labonnebouchee.com. $ MON–SAT.

LESTER’S SPORTS BAR Although there are plenty of big TVs, the name is misleading. It’s less sports bar, more neighborhood eatery. There are house-smoked meats, fine sandwiches, and decent barbecue. Soups and salads are particularly delicious. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 9906 Clayton, 314-994-0055, lestersrestaurant.com. $$ BAR & GRILL.

GULF SHORES RESTAURANT & GRILL CRUSHED RED URBAN BAKE AND CHOP SHOP

See “Multiple Locations.”

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LFCO NUDO HOUSE

SPORTSMAN’S PARK

VIA VINO ENOTECA

See description on p. 40.

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 DAILY. 9901 Clayton, 314991-3381, sportsmansparkladue.com. $$

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, 314569-0405, viaviavino.com. $$

OLIVETTE DINER 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.

BAR & GRILL.

B R E A K F A S T A N D L U N C H D A I L Y.

9638 Olive, 314-995-9945. $

SUGARFIRE SMOKE HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

SUGO’S SPAGHETTERIA See “Multiple Locations.”

THE PASTA HOUSE CO. See “Multiple Locations.”

THE POST SPORTS BAR AND GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

THE SHACK See “Multiple Locations.”

TRUFFLES AMERICAN. Truffles is a Ladue landmark, clasically appointed, with an emphasis on creative preparations of quality ingredients. Note the awardwinning 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

9202 Clayton, 314-5679100, todayattruffles.com. $$$$ O N LY SAT.

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MAPLEWOOD, BRENTWOOD, RICHMOND HEIGHTS & THE HI-POINTE AREA MBR

HI-POINTE DRIVE-IN A M E R I CA N. The hippest hamburger joint in town keeps a few top-secret menu items under wraps in its cargo container funhouse. Ask for the Double Secret Probation Burger, a double bacon cheeseburger run through the garden and nestled in fried chicken buns. And try the Weenie in Betweenie chili cheese dog grilled cheese and the Philly Mac & Cheese Steak, stuffed with cheesy pasta. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DAILY. 1033 McCausland, 314-349-2720, hipointedrivein.com. $

Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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MBR ACERO Cucina povera is glorious at this simple-yet-trendsetting 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. $$ I TA L I A N .

BASSO ITALIAN. The draw here, at one of the hippest bistro-type eateries in town, is small-portion Italian fare: roasted Brussels sprouts, seared pork belly, creamy burrata. Pizzas are topped with unexpected ingredients like duck egg and shrimp sausage. And happy hour doesn’t cease till 7 p.m. DINNER DA I LY. 7036 Clayton, 314-932-7820, basso-stl.com. $$

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 C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 7344 Manchester, 314-645-4803, boogalooswings.com. $$

BOUNDARY AMERICAN. 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–SAT, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SAT & SUN. 7036 Clayton, 314932-7818, boundary-stl.com. $$$

CARL’S DRIVE IN

2661 Sutton, 314-769-9940, blueduckstl.com. $$

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 skipping the root beer float. LUNCH AND DINNER T UE–SAT. 9033 Manchester, 314-961-9652. $

BLUE SKY TOWER GRILL

THE CROW’S NEST

AMERICAN. There are burgers, wraps,

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 deep-fried deviled eggs. A Metal Brunch on Sundays brings typical breakfast fare with a soundtrack of classic metal bands.

THE BLUE DUCK A M E R I C A N . The DLT, with seared duck breast, is just one of the housemade attractions at this upscale eatery with a minimalist ambience, ideal for large groups. LU N C H T U E – F R I , D I N N E R T U E – S U N, B RU N C H SAT & SUN.

chocolate gooey butter cake. The fireplace is a perfect place to gather and reminisce. DINNER AND EARLY DINNER DA I LY. 6300 Clayton, 314-647-7300, 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 C A 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 lessspicy chicken fingers) have legions of devotees. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 7434 Manchester, 314-899-9899, gusfriedchicken.com. $$

HI-POINTE DRIVE-IN

pizzas, nachos, and daily specials. But the real draw at this quirky, bright eatery: more than 60 martinis. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT. 1034 S. Brentwood, 314-726-2583, blueskystl.com. $$

BONEFISH GRILL S E A FO O D. It’s like a very nice, very classy bar that also serves great food. Should you want a quiet tête-à-tête, hang in the bar, with full meal service. Fish and steaks get a wood-grilled treatment that highlights flavor and enhances texture. LU N C H A N D D I N NER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. 8780 Eager, 314-918-1649, bonefishgrill.com. $$$

BOOGALOO CA R I B B 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—

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See description on p. 43.

AMERICAN.

LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H SAT & SUN . 7336 Manchester, 314-781-

0989, eatcrowstl.com. $

JOY LUCK BUFFET C H I N E S E . 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 8030 Manchester, 314-645-9982. $$

DEL PIETRO’S ITALIAN. Reprising his parents’ iconic restaurant, which closed in 2011, chef Michael Del Pietro recreates such favorites as Spaghetti a la Angela, Beef Sotto, and Chicken Burko (named after a family friend), as well as new dishes that dovetail with the classics. SEE WEBSITE FOR HOURS . 1059 S. Big Bend. $$$

FOX & HOUNDS TAVERN AMERICAN. Cozy, retro-romantic, 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

MAI LEE VIETNAMESE. Mai Lee is St. Louis’ goto 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E – S U N. 8396 Musick Memorial, 314-645-2835, maileestl.com. $$

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MBR MAUHAUS CAT CAFÉ & LOUNGE The region’s first cat café has, on average, a dozen cats in residence, all adoptable through a local shelter. (Sorry, patrons’ cats aren’t allowed.) Food options include predominantly baked goods but also some savory items, such as hummus and salmon dip. LATE BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER THU–SUN. 3101 Sutton, 314384-3287, mauhauscafe.com. $ AMERICAN.

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. LUNCH TUE–SAT, DINNER TUE–SAT. 2726 Sutton, 314-781-4774, mayacafestl.com. $$

As for lunch, there are burgers, panini, crêpes, sandwiches, and salads. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY. 12 The Boulevard, 314-726-3100, nadozcafe.com $

THE POST SPORTS BAR & GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

REEDS AMERICAN TABLE AMERICAN. Led by former Taste chef Matt Daughaday and the city’s most credentialed sommelier, Andrey Ivanov, a crackerjack team of 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. DINN E R W E D – M O N, B RU N C H SAT & S U N.

7322 Manchester, 314-899-9821, reedsamericantable.com. $$

REVEL KITCHEN MICHAEL’S BAR AND GRILL

AMERICAN. St. Louis Cardinals nutri-

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. L U N C H AND DINNER DAILY. 7101 Manchester, 314-644-2240. $$

tionist 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. BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND EAR-

MIKE DUFFY’S PUB AND GRILL

ROBATA

See “Multiple Locations.”

JAPANE SE . 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. D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 7260 Manchester, 314-899-9595, robatamaplewood.com. $$

BAR & GRILL.

THE MUDDLED PIG GASTROPUB BAR & GRILL. As the name implies, ex-

pect 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. LUNCH AND DINNER T UE–SUN. 2733 Sutton, 314-781-4607, themuddledpig.com. $$

LY DINNER MON–SAT, BREAKFAST AND LU N C H S U N. 8388 Musick Memorial, 314-647-2222, eatrevelkitchen.com. $

TAPPED BREWPUB. The bar without tenders, Tapped sports 39 beers, one local brewed coffee, and eight wines to serve yourself, quaff, and savor. Tapped serves food, too, including wood-fired pizzas, made with Reel’s signature Hefeweizen-enhanced dough. DINNER TUE–FRI, LUNCH AND DINNER SAT & SUN. 7278 Manchester, 314-899-0011, tappedstl.com. $$

TWIN OAK WOOD-FIRED PIZZA AND BBQ P I Z Z A / B A R B E C U E . Wo o d - f i re d pizza and barbecue? If this place had local beers and good cocktails, it’d be the perfect restaurant. Oh, wait—it does. Don’t overlook the salads, the wood-fired wings, or the deep-dish chocolate chip cookie dessert. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1201 Strassner, 314-644-2772, twinoakwoodfired.com. $$

WATER STREET A M E R I CA N. 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 M O N – SAT. 7268 Manchester, 314-646-8355, waterstreetstl.com. $$

WEBER GRILL RESTAURANT A M E R I C A N . 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. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY. Saint Louis Galleria, 314-930-3838, webergrillrestaurant.com. $$$

NADOZ CAFÉ + CATERING CA F É . Did you think life couldn’t get any better than sprinkle-topped doughnuts? Try the Nutella-slathered crêpes. Or if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider the salmon-bagel platter.

SCHLAFLY BOTTLEWORKS

YEN CHING

Schlafly offers 20 beers on tap and hearty pub food. Consider the beer bread or chorizo meatloaf with a Fitz’s root beer–tomato glaze. An outdoor farmers’ market runs Wednesdays from April–October, and there’s an indoor market from November–March. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SAT & SUN. 7260 Southwest, 314-241-2337, schlafly.com. $$

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. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY. 1012 S. Brentwood, 314-721-7507. $$

BAR & GRILL.

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KIRKWOOD, WEBSTER GROVES, ROCK HILL & DES PERES KWRD

OLIVE+OAK AMERICAN. 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. D I N N E R DA I LY. 102 W. Lockwood, 314-736-1370, oliveandoakstl.com. $$$

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Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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KWRD AMIGOS CANTINA

CITIZEN KANE’S STEAKHOUSE

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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 120 W. Jefferson, 314-821-0877, amigoskirkwood.com. $$

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. $$$$

BIG SKY CAFE

CRAVINGS RESTAURANT AND BAKERY

MEXICAN.

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, AMERICAN.

STEAKHOUSE .

SUN.

CA F 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. LUNCH TUE–SAT, DINNER FRI & SAT. 8149 Big Bend, 314-961-3534, cravingsrestaurant.info. $$$

BILLY G’S KIRKWOOD

CRUSHED RED URBAN BAKE AND CHOP SHOP

D I N N E R T U E – S U N , B R U N C H S AT &

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

A M E R I C A N . 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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 131 W. Argonne, 314-984-8000, billygskirkwood.com. $$

THE BLOCK See “Multiple Locations.”

Hill institution has a spacious new patio and a large banquet space. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY. 9525 Manchester, 314-962-0048, farottos.com. $$

GERARD’S RESTAURANT A M E R I C A N / I TA L 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, 314-8217977, stlgerards.net. $$$

HACIENDA MEXICAN. Fine renditions of Mexican dishes such as chicken molé 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? LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 9748 Manchester, 314-962-7100, haciendastl.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

HALF & HALF CYRANO’S 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 AND DINNER DAILY . 603 E. Lockwood, 314-963-3232, cyranos.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

D E S S E RT S /CA F É .

HONEY PIT SMOKEHOUSE BARBECUE . A health-conscious chef/ cookbook author takes traditional ’cue for a spin, with smoked turkey and chicken platters paired with lower-cal side dishes. Pork and brisket staples, plus flat-grilled burgers and shakes, are also available. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 951. S. Kirkwood, 314-698-2121, honeypitsmokehouse.com. $$

CAFÉ PROVENCAL F R E N C H . 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, cafeprovencal.com. $$$

DAILY BREAD BAKERY AND CAFE

J. GILBERT’S

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 AND LUNCH DAILY, DINNER MON–FRI. 11719 Manchester, 314909-0010, thedbcafe.com. $

ST E A K H O US E . It’s a cut above, so to speak, with USDA Prime steaks, a broad-ranging menu, above-average starters and sides, and the most comfortable bar stools in town. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY. 17A West County Center, 314-965-4600, jgilberts.com. $$$$

CIRCA STL

DEWEY’S PIZZA

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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1090 Old Des Peres, 314-394-1196. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

CA F É .

JOE BOCCARDI’S RISTORANTE AMERICAN.

See “Multiple Locations.”

KALDI’S FAROTTO’S PIZZERIA St. Louis–style pizza is served alongside fish, chicken, and pasta, but the real secret here is a spectacular meatball sandwich. (Get it on the garlic cheese bread.) The Rock

See “Multiple Locations.”

I TA L I A N .

KATIE’S PIZZA AND PASTA OSTERIA See “Multiple Locations.”

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KWRD KIRKWOOD BREWHOUSE

ONE 19 NORTH

Smoked meats abound at this sports fan– and familyfriendly neighborhood joint, yet we seem to revert to the grass-fed candied bacon burger on a pretzel bun. Though it’s not a strict brewhouse, suds heads will find 25-plus beers on tap and another dozen by bottle. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 10312 Manchester, 314-394-1365, kirkwoodbrewhouse.com. $$

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, smokedGouda grits—are delicious. And there’s a lovely wine selection. You’ll nibble, sip, chat, fall in love. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY. 119 N. Kirkwood, 314821-4119, one19north.com. $$

A M E R I CA N.

WINE BAR.

PEPPE’S APT. 2 LLYWELYN’S PUB See “Multiple Locations.”

MIKE DUFFY’S PUB & GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

MILAGRO MODERN MEXICAN MEXICAN. The beautiful interior makes

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 queso con chorizo is not to be missed. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 20 Allen, 314-9624300, milagromodernmexican.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, D I N N E R T U E – SAT. 800 S. Geyer, 314909-1375, peppesapt2.com. $$$

PI PIZZERIA See “Multiple Locations.” robust See “Multiple Locations.”

SAFFRON INDIAN CUISINE NACHOMAMA’S 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, tortilla-wrapped, fresh salsa–splattered glory. The drive-thru is fast, but you’ll want to get the full dine-in experience. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 9643 Manchester, 314-961-9110, nachomamas-stl.com. $ M E X I CA N .

NATHANIEL REID BAKERY B A K E RY. 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.

INDIAN. Here you’ll find Northern Indian fare: fist-sized samosas, fragrant tandoori, creamy sauces, and exquisite naan bread. The staff is helpful in explaining (and moderating) the spice levels, from mild to rocket fuel explosive. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 2137 Barrett Station, 314-965-3822, saffronstl.net. $$

SAPORE ITALIAN CAFÉ ITALIAN. 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 sautéed sea bass. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 451 S. Kirkwood, 314-909-7575, saporeitaliancafé.com. $$$

BREAKFAST AND LATE LUNCH MON– SAT. 11243 Manchester, 314-858-1019,

THE SLIDER HOUSE

chefnathanielreid.com. $

A M E R I C A N . Though the classic burgers are fine, there are also surprises in such creative variations as a Nashville fried chicken slider and the Texican. Also unexpected: delightful salads, including a but-

OLIVE+OAK See description on p. 46.

ter poached–lobster Cobb. You’ll find community tables, a cozy fire pit, and even volleyball in warm weather. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 9528 Manchester, 314-942-6445, thesliderhouse.com. $

SPENCER’S GRILL D I N E R . Serving Kirkwoodians for nearly 70 years, Spencer’s has all of the things a diner should but usually doesn’t: properly prepared food, snappy service, and owners who keep the place spotless and make sure the patrons all know one another. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY. 223 S. Kirkwood, 314-821-2601. $

ST. LOUIS WING COMPANY AMERICAN. More than a dozen sauces are beguiling. But if the wings aren’t correctly prepared, it doesn’t matter whether it’s basil pesto or Cajun Alfredo. Fortunately, former fine dining 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 9816 Manchester, 314-9629464, stlwingco.com. $

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 touches. LUNCH TUE–FRI, DINNER DAILY . 118 W. Adams, 314-965-6644, sunset44.com. $$$

THE SUSHI STATION SUSHI/JAPANESE. Webster’s only nonchain sushi restaurant happens to be a pretty good one, as evidenced by the 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, thesushistation.com. $$

THREE KINGS PUBLIC HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

WASABI SUSHI BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

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FAR WEST COUNTY FWC ABQ-INDIAN GRILL

BISHOP’S POST

EAST COAST PIZZA

Lunch is particularly worthwhile here, with bargain combinations. The menu’s small, with an emphasis on kebabs and curries, as well as a standout biryani. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE– SUN. 17409 Chesterfield Airport, 314-2001111, abarbq.com. $$

Bishop’s Post takes its name from Colonel Justus Post, original owner of the land on which the restaurant sits in Chesterfield. 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 andouille-and-seafood gumbo. LUNCH TUE–SUN, DINNER DAILY. 16125 Chesterfield Pkwy. W., 636-536-9404, bishopspost.com. $$$

PIZZA . One of the region’s more underrated pizzerias, this sister restaurant to Epic Pizza & Subs features New York– style pies. Large sub sandwiches are built on rolls imported from legendary Philly bakery Amoroso’s. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 17304 Chesterfield Airport, 636536-7888, eastcoastpizza.net. $

INDIAN.

ADDIE’S THAI HOUSE THAI. 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. LUNCH MON–SAT, D I N N E R DA I LY. 13441 Olive, 341-4691660, addiesthaihouse.com. $$

ANNIE GUNN’S A M E R I C A N . Every dish on the acclaimed restaurant’s 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 awardwinning list of more than 300 bottles. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 16806 Chesterfield Airport, 636-532-7684, anniegunns.com. $$$$

BALABAN’S A M E R I C A N . An extensive wine list spans more than 860 offerings, including a Library Wine Collection with 250-plus older vintage varieties. The contemporary American menu’s influenced by French, Spanish, and Italian cuisine, with small plates, flatbreads, and entrée portions. And more vino is available in the wine shop. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – S A T, B R U N C H

1772 Clarkson, 636-449-6700, balabanswine.com. $$

SUN.

BENEDETTO’S ON MAIN ITALIAN. 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R TUE–SUN. 16721 Main, Wildwood, 636821-3535, benedettostl.com. $$$

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A M E R I CA N .

CHARLIE GITTO’S See “Multiple Locations.”

CIRCLE 7 RANCH TAPHOUSE & GRILL B A R & G R I L L . This rustic taphouse and grill features table taps—the first in Missouri—that allow patrons to pour their own beers. The menu offers hearty bar food favorites, with an extensive burger, wrap, sandwich, and salad selection, as well as mac and cheese 11 ways. LUNCH TUE–SUN, DINNER DAILY. 14412 Clayton, 636-220-9707, circle7ranch.com. $$

COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT AMERICAN. This Chicago-based restaurant/winery hybrid offers a winepaired 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 AND DINNER DAILY. 1146 Town & Country Crossing, 636-489-0059, coopershawkwinery.com. $$

DALIE’S SMOKEHOUSE BARBECUE . The team behind Pappy’s

EDGEWILD RESTAURANT & WINERY A M E R I C A N . 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-label wines and dishes accompanied by carefully chosen wine pairings. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, BRUNCH SUN. 550 Chesterfield Center, 636-532-0550, edgewildwinery.com. $$$

FRED AND RICKY’S See “Multiple Locations.”

GIANFABIO’S ITALIAN CAFÉ ITALIAN. Gianfabio’s offers Italian food bliss: eggplant parmigiana, cannelloni, veal piccata… Fresh pizzas come from an open-flame brick oven that separates the dining room from the bar. LU N C H MON–FRI, DINNER MON–SAT. 127 Hilltown Village Center, 636-532-6686, gianfabio.com. $$$

JJ TWIG’S PIZZA & PUB See “Multiple Locations.”

JOE BOCCARDI’S RISTORANTE See “Multiple Locations.”

JOEY B’S See “Multiple Locations.”

JOHN MINEO’S

2951 Dougherty Ferry, 636-529-1898, daliessmokehouse.com. $$

I T A L I A N . 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? LU N C H T U E – F R I , D I N N E R M O N – S AT. 13490 Clayton, 314-434-5244 johnmineos.com. $$$$

DEWEY’S PIZZA

KALDI’S

See “Multiple Locations.”

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 A N D D I N N E R T U E – SAT, LU N C H S U N .

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FWC KATIE’S PIZZA AND PASTA OSTERIA

See “Multiple Locations.”

a veal chop the size of Connecticut are combined with classics like eggplant Parmesan and calamari fritti. DINNER DAILY. 1054 Town and Country Crossing, 636-256-9998, napoli2.com. $$$

LLYWELYN’S PUB

NIPPON TEI

See “Multiple Locations.”

JAPANESE. Japanese fusion and a full sushi menu are served in an upscale modern atmosphere. Specialties include soft-shell crab, salt-baked shrimp, and spicy bay scallops with eggplant. The house-made miso dressing with the mixed greens house salad is exquisite. LUNCH TUE–FRI, DINNER TUE–SUN. 14025 Manchester, 636-386-8999, nippontei-stl.com. $$$

See “Multiple Locations.”

KIMCHEESE

LOCAL CHEF KITCHEN AMERICAN. Chef Rob Uyemura emphasizes local ingredients. His place in Ballwin is a combination to-go gourmet, café sitdown, and boutique local meat–and–produce grocer—or, if you will, a classic “meat and three.” LUNCH AND EARLY DINNER TUE–SAT, BREAKFAST SAT & SUN. 15270 Manchester, 636-220-3212. $$

THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

MANEE THAI T H A I . 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 481 Lafayette Center, 636-256-8898, maneethaistl.com. $$

MARCELLA’S MIA SORELLA I TA L I A N . Named one of Thrillist’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 MON–SAT. 14426 Clayton, 636-333-1015, miasorellastl.com. $$

MIKE DUFFY’S PUB AND GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

MONSOON VIETNAMESE BISTRO VIETNAME SE . Menu favorites include the “shaking beef,” sizzling Saigon crépe, and Vietnamese coffee. We’re also partial to the Vietnamese curry, green papaya salad, and calamari with flashfried spinach leaves. Top it off with an Asian-inspired cocktail, like the lychee martini. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT. 14248 Manchester, 636-256-8838. $$

PI PIZZERIA See “Multiple Locations.”

A M E R I CA N. Although Table Three is 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. LUNCH TUE–SAT, DINNER MON–SAT. 16765 Main, Wildwood, 636-458-4333, table-three.com. $$$

THE TAVERN KITCHEN & BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

TUCKER’S PLACE See “Multiple Locations.”

VERITAS GATEWAY TO FOOD AND WINE AMERICAN. 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.

PAUL MANNO’S CAFÉ

LUNCH AND DINNER WED–SAT, BRUNCH

Effortlessly 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. DINNER MON–SAT. 75 Forum Center, 314-878-1274. $$$

SUN.

ITALIAN.

15860 Fountain, 636-227-6800, veritasgateway.com. $$$

VITO’S IN THE VALLEY

See “Multiple Locations.”

ITALIAN. Chef Gianfranco Munna serves up pizzas, pasta, and calzones, plus steak and seafood selections. The stellar wine list is focused on Sicilian wines. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY. 138 Chesterfield Towne Center, 636-536-3788, vitosinthevalley.com. $$

ROCK & BREWS

WALNUT GRILL

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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R D A I LY. 17258 Chesterfield Airport, 636-536-2739, rockandbrews.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

PI PIZZERIA

A M E R I CA N.

RUSSELL’S CAFÉ & BAKERY See “Multiple Locations.”

WASABI SUSHI BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

WESTPORT SOCIAL A M E R I C A N . The sprawling space houses live music, shuffleboard, foosball, giant kickball-pool, hoops, darts, ping-pong, giant TVs, sleek lounges, a full kitchen, and an even fuller bar. It’s an entertainment gathering spot for fun, long lunches. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 910 Westport Plaza, 314-548-

SEOUL TACO

2876, westportstl.com. $$

See “Multiple Locations.”

YA YA’S EURO BISTRO THE SHACK See “Multiple Locations.”

NAPOLI 2 ITALIAN. This Chesterfield restaurant doesn’t miss a thing, with elegant décor, gracious service, and a superior wine selection that all focus attention on the menu. Fresh pasta, steaks, and

TABLE THREE

SPIRO’S See “Multiple Locations.”

SUGARFIRE SMOKE HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

EUROPEAN. This upscale chain offers house-made pasta, brick-oven pizzas, and sustainably sourced seafood. With limestone walls, a mosaic-tile floor, and sconce lighting, Ya Ya’s is impressive inside and out. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. 15601 Olive, 636-537-9991, yayasstl.com. $$$

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ST. CHARLES & BEYOND SCB ASIA

DEWEY’S PIZZA

See description on p. 53.

See “Multiple Locations.”

BC’S KITCHEN

FIREBIRDS WOOD FIRED GRILL

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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 11 Meadows Circle, Lake Saint Louis, 636-542-9090, billcardwell.com/bcs.html. $$$

A M E R I CA N. The moniker “polished casual” is apropos at the first Missouri location of the popular chain. Imbibers are lured by a waterfall of backlit liquor bottles and the signature pineapple-infused martini; diners succumb to the signature Durango Burger, fresh seafood, and the reasonably priced bleu-cheese fillet, all cooked on an oak- and fruitwood- burning grill. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY . 1501 Beale, 636-866-0984, st-charles.firebirdsrestaurants.com. $$$$

AMERICAN.

BELLA VINO WINE BAR & TAPAS W I N E B A R . Tapas-type nibbles and a wonderful wine list make this a splendid evening destination in old-town St. Charles. The cozy brick-walled 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. LU N C H F R I – S U N , D I N N E R T U E – S U N .

325 S. Main, St. Charles, 636-724-3434, bellavinowinebarstl.com. $$

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 and pasta. On Monday nights, kids eat for free, which should serve as either a warning or an invitation. LUNCH DAILY, DINNER MON–SAT. 515 S. Main, St. Charles, 636-493-9303, braddens.vpweb.com. $$ AMERICAN.

FRATELLI’S RISTORANTE I TA L I A N . From the Tuscany vista murals to the scratch-made 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 girlfriend. It’s affordable, enjoyable, and dependably good. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DA I LY. 2061 Zumbehl, 636-949-9005, fratellisristorante.com. $$

HENDRICKS BBQ

See “Multiple Locations.”

BARBECUE. There’s a rustic roadhouse vibe upstairs, a blues bar downstairs, a massive patio overlooking the Katy Trail, and exceptional barbecue. Firsttimers should opt for a combo; consider a hearty plate of tender beef brisket, decadent ribbons of pulled pork, and oh-so-moist turkey. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 1200 S. Main, St. Charles, 636-724-8600, hendricksbbq.com. $$

BUGATTI’S STEAK & PASTA

JJ TWIG’S PIZZA & PUB

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 I N N E R T U E – SAT. 1 Ameristar, 636-940-4471, ameristar.com/st-charles/bugattis. $$$$

See “Multiple Locations.”

BRISTOL SEAFOOD GRILL

STEAKHOUSE.

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LEWIS AND CLARK’S A M E R I CA N. Expect bustling crowds here, especially on weekends. Why? It offers a charmingly restored 18th-century 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 some-

what quieter experience. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 217 S. Main, St. Charles, 636-947-3334, lewisandclarks restaurant.com. $$

LLYWELYN’S PUB See “Multiple Locations.”

McGURK’S PUBLIC HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

PANGEA A M E R I C A N . Haute hits the hinterlands—or at least New Town—at this ambitious upscale eatery. Bone marrow tarts, beef cheeks… The menu sparkles with surprising ingredients that are impressively presented. The surroundings are so attractive, a post-prandial stroll is almost mandatory. DINNER MON–SAT. 3245 Rue Royale, St. Charles, 636-7573579, pangeaworldfusion.com. $$

THE PASTA HOUSE CO. 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. LUNCH AND DINNER T UE–SUN. 5212 Highway N, Cottleville, 636-477-6155, plankroadpizza.com. $$

PRASINO AMERICAN. 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.” LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BREAKFAST SAT & SUN.

1520 S. Fifth, St. Charles, 636-277-0202, prasinostcharles.com. $$$

SPIRO’S See “Multiple Locations.”

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SCB STONE SOUP COTTAGE 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-and-return) spot for destination dining. That reminds us: It’s time to head back for dinner. DINNER THU–SAT. 5809 Highway N, Cottleville, 636-2442233, stonesoupcottage.com. $$$$ AMERICAN.

SUGARFIRE SMOKE HOUSE See “Multiple Locations.”

SUNISA’S THAI RESTAURANT 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 6057 Mid Rivers Mall, St. Peters, 636-922-4888. $$ THAI.

SUSHI SEN 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-the-way strip mall, but it’s well worth the trip. LUNCH AND DINNER MON–SAT. 161 Civic Center, Lake Saint Louis, 636-561-4449. $$ JAPANE SE/SUSHI.

still notable. It’s fun, with imaginative offerings like the gargantuan bacontopped 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 11 Wentzville Bluffs, 636-887-2178, thetattooeddog.com. $

TONY’S ON MAIN STREET I TA L I A N . 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 atmosphere. Families, couples, and after-work flocks all gather here. LU N C H T U E – SAT, D I N N E R T U E – S U N.

132 N. Main, St. Charles, 636-940-1960, tonysonmain.com. $$$

TRAILHEAD BREWING CO. AMERICAN. 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 onsite brewery turns out superior suds. Burgers and specialty sandwiches are served in one of the city’s most

delightfully restored vintage spaces. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R D A I LY. 921 S. Riverside, St. Charles, 636-946-2739, trailheadbrewing.com. $$

TUCANO’S BRAZILIAN GRILL SOUTH AMERICAN. 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 C H A N D D I NNER MON–SAT. 1520 S. Fifth, St. Charles, 636-724-4499, tucanos.com. $$$

VB CHOCOLATE BAR CA F 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. H O U R S VARY. 5326 Highway N, Cottleville, 636352-1139, vbchocolatebar.com. $

WALNUT GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

WASABI SUSHI BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

THAI KITCHEN THAI. The Thai dumplings are inspired, and the panang curries are suitably incendiary. While the atmosphere is stripmall 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 3899 Veteran’s Memorial, Ste. B, St. Peters, 626-4471883, thaikitchenstpeters.com. $$

THE TATTOOED DOG AMERICAN. Though no dogs are actually tattooed there, this quirky burger-and-sandwich joint in Wentzville is

ASIA

A S I A N . Chinese and Vietnamese specialties are featured at this 80-seater, located just off the casino floor. Start with the Szechuan Wontons and follow up with the Sizzling Black Pepper Beef. Note that every entrée is paired with sake—a winning combo. D I N N E R DA I LY. 1 Ameristar, St. Charles, 636-949-7777, ameristar.com/ st-charles/asia. $$

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ON THE BURNER

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METRO EAST ME

4204 MAIN STREET BREWERY BAR & GRILL. Grab a seat by the outdoor fire pit. Order a malty German Alt, one of 4204â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many fine brews, and a ribeye that matches it perfectly. Be sure to add some fried pickles. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 4204 W. Main, Belleville, 618-416-7261, mainstreetbrewingco.com. $$$

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ME 1818 CHOPHOUSE

CLEVELAND–HEATH

See “Multiple Locations.”

AMERICAN. Warning: The deviled eggs

4204 MAIN STREET BREWERY See description on p. 55.

AGOSTINO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT I TA L I A N. 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 up and go find out. L U N C H MON–FRI, DINNER MON–SAT. 130 Ludwig, Fairview Heights, 618-394-1800, agostinosrestaurant.com. $$$

ANDRIA’S COUNTRYSIDE S T E A K H O U S E . The highest-grade 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. DINNER MON–SAT. 7415 Highway 143, Edwardsville, 618-656-0281, andriascountryside.com. $$$$

ANDRIA’S RESTAURANT STEAKHOUSE. 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–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. DINNER MON–SAT. 6805 Old Collinsville, O’Fallon, Ill., 618-6324866, andrias.com. $$$$

BEAST CRAFT BBQ CO. BA R B 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.” LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. 20 S. Belt West, Belleville; 618257-9000; beastcraftbbq.com. $$

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here are potentially addicting. Limit yourself, and concentrate on the everchanging seasonal menu. Housed in a 1930s-era building, Cleveland–Heath is one of the most popular restaurants in the Metro East. (Read: Go early.) L U N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. 106 N. Main, Edwardsville, 618-307-4830, clevelandheath.com. $$$

DEWEY’S PIZZA See “Multiple Locations.”

cue. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E – S U N . 609 S. Illinois, Belleville, 618-234-7427, hicksbbqcompany.com. $$

HOFBRÄUHAUS ST. LOUIS–BELLEVILLE G E R M A N . Based on the design of the 400-year-old original in Munich, the 25,000-square-foot restaurant/bierhall is the largest in the U.S, seating 750 inside and 250 outside. Highlights include Bavarian cuisine, beer brewed on site, and oompah bands flown in from across the pond. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 123 St. Eugene, Belleville, 618-800-2337, hofbrauhausstlouis.com. $$

DREAMLAND PALACE GERMAN. The tchotchke-laden space is 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 lively and loud. Vergnügen! LUNCH AND DINNER WED –SUN. 3043 Highway 156, Waterloo, 618-939-9922, dreamlandpalace.net. $$

J FIRES’ MARKET BISTRO A M E R I C A N . A beautifully restored Victorian home provides an elegant setting. The menu ranges from steaks to seafood, pasta to pizza, with pleasant surprises along the way. The vineentwined patio is splendid for warmweather dining. D I N N E R W E D – S U N , BRUNCH SUN. 725 N. Market, Waterloo, 618-939-7233, jfires.com. $$

FLETCHER’S KITCHEN & TAP AMERICAN. 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. $$

GALLAGHER’S A M E R I C A N . 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. LUNCH AND DINNER TUE–SUN. 114 W. Mill, Waterloo, 618-939-9933, gallagherswaterloo.com. $$$

GULF SHORES RESTAURANT & GRILL See “Multiple Locations.”

HICK’S BBQ BARBECUE . 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 barbe-

JOE BOCCARDI’S RISTORANTE See “Multiple Locations.”

LASCELLES GRANITE CITY AMERICAN. This chef-inspired 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 MON–SAT. 1324 Niedringhaus, Granite City, 618-709-7375, lascellesgc.com. $$

THE GRILLE AT THE MANSION A M E R I C A N . 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. DINNER T UE–SAT. 1680 Mansion Way, O’Fallon, Ill., 618-624-0629, mansionsteakhouse.com. $$$$

MI TIERRA TIENDA Y TAQUERIA M E X I C A N . 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:

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ME 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 best limespiked guacamole around. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 3121 Collinsville, East St. Louis, 618-271-8168. $

ticularly extensive menu of toppings. Prices are reasonable. House-special rolls are inventive. Lunch specials are varied and affordable. Open until 2 a.m., Seven is a late-night favorite. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY. 28 E. Main, Belleville, 618-277-6702. $$

bold flavors and creative interpretations of foods from all over the East. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY, B RU N C H

1035 Century, Edwardsville, 618-655-0888, wanggangasian.com. $$ SAT & SUN.

WASABI SUSHI BAR See “Multiple Locations.”

SUGO’S SPAGHETTERIA MR. CURRY’S INDIA RESTAURANT

See “Multiple Locations.”

THAI HOUSE MIKE SHANNON’S GRILL 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. Don’t miss the upside-down apple pie. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. 871 S. Arbor Vitae, Edwardsville, 618-655-9911, mikeshannonsgrill.com. $$$

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 worth a visit. And when a couple can dine there for less than $30, return trips get planned. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 109 S. Main, C o l u m b i a , I l l . , 6 1 8 - 2 8 1 - 2 7 7 7, columbiathaihouse.com. $$

PEEL WOOD FIRED PIZZA

WANG GANG ASIAN EATS

See “Multiple Locations.”

ASIAN. First-timers should consult the staff here. The menu boasts a tantalizing but bewildering collection of Asianinfluenced dishes: stir fries, noodles, and sandwiches. The emphasis is on

AMERICAN. Mike Shannon once played

SEVEN SUSHI BAR S U S H I . Simple, nearly austere, and small, this sushi-ya excels in its par-

WHO DAT’S SOUTHERN FOOD C A J U N / C R E O L E . Who 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. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R T U E – SAT. 123 S. Main, Columbia, Illinois, 618-281-2229, whodatsrestaurant.com. $

THE WINE TAP WINE 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. D I N N E R T U E – SAT. 223 E. Main, Belleville, 618-239-9463, thewinetap belleville.com. $$

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MULTIPLE LOCATIONS ML

KATIE’S PIZZA AND PASTA OSTERIA ITALIAN. 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 ragù and caviar. Much of the fare is garnished with bounty from the patio garden. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SAT & SUN. 9568 Manchester, 314-942-6555; 14171 Clayton, 636-220-3238; katiespizzaandpasta.com. $$

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Photography by Kevin A. Roberts

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ML 1818 CHOPHOUSE

CRUSHED RED

GULF SHORES RESTAURANT & GRILL

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. LUNCH TUE–SAT, DINNER TUE–FRI, BRUNCH SUN. 210 S. Buchanan, Edwardsville, Ill., 618-3079300; 1405 N. Green Mount, O’Fallon, Ill.; 1818chophouse.com. $$$$

Individual pizzas are built to order, along with tasty chopped salads. The atmosphere is informal, happy, and convivial; the ingredients are flawless and delicious. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. See website for locations, crushed-red.com. $

CAJUN/CREOLE. The étouffées, jambalaya, and po’ boys are authentic. The atmosphere is New Orleans–meets– college bar—but with better food. And live music and daily drink specials add to the fun. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. 12528 Olive, 314878-3306; 215 Harvard, Edwardsville, Ill., 618-650-9109; gulfshoresrestaurant andgrill.com. $$$

STEAKHOUSE .

BARTOLINO’S I TA L I A N . Bartolino’s opened in 1969 on The Hill. Today, two locations—one in South County and another in a Drury Inn—serve a menu of Italian specialties, seafood, fine meats, pastas, risotto, sandwiches, and St. Louisstyle pizzas. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY. 2103 Sulphur, 314-644-2266; 5914 S. Lindbergh, 314487-4545; bartolinosrestaurants.com. $$$

THE BLOCK AMERICAN. “Meat-friendly” hardly covers it. The place has its own 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. HOURS VARY BY LOCATION. 33 N. Sarah, 314535-5100; 146 W. Lockwood, 314-9187900; theblockrestaurant.com. $$

BRISTOL SEAFOOD GRILL S E A F O O D. 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. LUNCH

PIZZA.

DEWEY’S PIZZA PIZZA . This gourmet pizza chain serves inventive specialty pizzas, as well as seasonal offerings. Rotating craft beers are on tap, and the wine list includes Dewey’s own line from Novy Family Wines. LUNCH MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, deweyspizza.com. $$

DRUNKEN FISH JAPANE SE/SUSHI. Though sushi gets the most attention, consider the donburi, bowls filled with rice and generous toppings of chicken or fish. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, drunkenfish.com. $$$

CHARLIE GITTO’S Classic Italian accommodates both dressing up and dressing down. The eggplant Napoleon is a culinary wonder, 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, 314770-7663; 15525 Olive, 636-536-2199; charliegittos.com. $$$ ITALIAN.

COMPANION CAFÉ CAFÉ . This lunch favorite serves bread, daily soups, and fresh ingredients in an airy café. No meal is complete without a cookie. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH DAILY. 9781 Clayton, 314-218-2280; 2331 Schuetz, 314-627-5262; companionstl.com. $

A M E R I C A N . A mix of standard fare and variations, such as mascarponeand-raspberry pancakes, sates the appetites of sweet- and savory-breakfast aficionados alike. A rotating selection of guest roasters’ coffee is also a highlight. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH TUE–FRI, BRUNCH SAT & SUN. 8135 Maryland, 314725-0719; 220 W. Lockwood, 314-962-1617; halfandhalfstl.com. $$

JILLY’S CUPCAKE BAR & CAFÉ Yes, Jilly’s has some of the best gourmet cupcakes around. But the menu also offers cake, ice cream, and a full lunch menu of soups, salads, and sandwiches. LUNCH DAILY, BRUNCH SAT & SUN. 8509 Delmar, 314-993-5455; 222 E. Park, Edwardsville, 618-307-9545; jillyscupcakebar.com. $ CAFÉ.

FRED AND RICKY’S A M E R I C A N . Kathleen (a.k.a. Fred, a nickname) and Richard (Ricky) Waidmann sell only “plant-based” foods, with new items added weekly. The popular “Planta-sagna” is a must. There are two brick-and-mortar locations, or you can purchase grab-and-go items at select spots across the metro area. SEE WEBSITE FOR HOURS AND ADDITIONAL

64 Weldon Parkway, 314942-8900; 11252 Olive, 314-942-3100; fredricky.com. $ LO CATIONS.

MON–FRI, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN.

11801 Olive, 314-567-0272; 2314 Technology, O’Fallon, Mo., 636-625-6350; bristolseafoodgrill.com. $$$

HALF & HALF

FIVE STAR BURGERS A M E R I C A N . Former Harvest owner Steve Gontram’s family-friendly burger outpost whips up meat-eating perfection with creative toppings, alongside a stellar selection of craft beer and wine. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 8125 Maryland, 314720-4350; 11621 Olive, 314-942-6450; 5starburgersstl.com. $$

GIOIA’S DELI AMERICAN. Oil tanker–size sandwiches are the attraction at the downtown location, whose roots stretch back nearly a century. Build your own, or go with a classic such as the Porknado or Hogfather. H O U R S VA RY B Y L O C AT I O N . 1934 Macklind; 903 Pine; 314-776-9410; gioiasdeli.com. $

JJ TWIG’S PIZZA & PUB P I Z ZA . 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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. See website for locations, 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. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, joeboccardis.com. $$

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. Don’t miss the tower of hand-breaded onion rings. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, joeybsmanchester.com. $$

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ML KALDI’S The metro area’s largest thirdwave coffee roaster serves up a range of hand-brewed, drip, and espresso coffee drinks and teas, alongside a tasty selection of breakfast and lunch items. BREAKFAST, LUNCH, AND DINNER DAILY. Visit website for locations, kaldiscoffee.com. $ CA F É .

KATIE’S PIZZA AND PASTA OSTERIA See description on p. 58.

KIMCHEESE KOREAN. A popular lunch spot, Kimcheese effortlessly handles crowds. The décor looks Korean country. The menu combinations are unexpected but delicious, with such dishes as porkbelly tacos and burritos plump with Korean BBQ beef, kimchi, rice, and beans. The kalbi burger is amazing. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 13435 Olive, 314-485-1408; 1 Metropolitan Square; kimcheese.net. $

LLYWELYN’S PUB BAR & GRILL . 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. Visit the website for hours and locations, llywelynspub.com. $$

LOMBARDO’S I TA L I A N . Classic and cultivated, this longtime local favorite offers urbane Italian dining. The veal is wonderful, and pasta portions are generous. The lunch menu’s Italian sausage sandwich is the best in town. HOURS VARY BY LO CAT I O N . 10488 Natural Bridge, 314429-5151; 201 S. 20th, 314-621-0666; lombardosrestaurants.com. $$$

McGURK’S PUBLIC HOUSE BA R & G R I L L . 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 is a huge outdoor garden and traditional Irish music. In O’Fallon, Missouri, 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, mcgurks publichouse.com. $$

with sandwiches, wings, pizza, and TVs everywhere. Myriad burger varieties are available on the “Burger Heaven” menu. HOURS VARY BY LO CATION. See website for locations, mikeduffys.com. $

THE POST SPORTS BAR AND GRILL MISSION TACO JOINT The specialties are housemade 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 notable. And Mission Taco is a great spot for a handcrafted cocktail. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, missiontacojoint.com. $

B A R & G R I L L . This haven for sports fans has an extensive appetizer menu. “Post-Its” come in three varieties: garlic cheese-bread bites, bacon chicken ranch, and pepperoni pizza. The rest of the hefty menu includes pub-friendly salads, soups, pizza, sandwiches, and wraps. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 7372 Manchester, 314-645-1109; 763 Old Ballas, 314-7361205; thepostsportsbar.com. $

MR. CURRYS INDIA RESTAURANT

ROBUST

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 LOCATION. 612 Olive, 314-2412877; 7403 Marine, Edwardsville, 618692-3892; mrcurrys.com. $

W I N E B A R . 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, 314963-0033; robustwinebar.com. $$

THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE

ROOSTER

Even weekday mornings are packed. The reason: fluffy flapjacks, golden clouds of hash browns, sunrises of eggs. It’s a whole morning of happiness on a plate. BREAKFAST AND LUNCH TUE– SUN. 8817 Ladue, 314-932-1340; 17000 Chesterfield Airport, 636-536-4044; originalpancakehousestlouis.com. $

CAFÉ. At downtown’s top breakfast destination, guests line up for the cheese-laden crêpes, loaded scrambles, and lavish French toast in a light-filled space. The South Grand location has a communal layout and pictures of roosters drawn by local children. HOURS VARY BY LO CATION. 1104 Locust, 314-241-8118; 3150 S. Grand, 314-772-3447; roosterstl.com. $$

M E X I CA N.

INDIAN.

A M E R I CA N .

THE PASTA HOUSE CO. ITALIAN. 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, and toasted ravioli. Pizza, burgers, and sandwiches are also available. LU N C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. See website for locations, pastahouse.com. $$

PEEL WOOD FIRED PIZZA PIZZA . Pizzas are topped with innovative ingredients: BBQ pork, duck sausage, roasted sweet potatoes… In O’Fallon, Illinois, there’s an entire brewpub upstairs; at the Edwardsville location, the patio is enjoyable. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 921 S. Arbor Vitae, Edwardsville, 618659-8561; 104 S. Cherry, O’Fallon, Ill., 618-726-2244; peelpizza.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,

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cornmeal dough. Consider the neighborhood-themed pizza specials. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, pi-pizza.com. $$

ROSALITA’S CANTINA MEXICAN. You’ll find an array of the usual taco-burrito-chimichanga standards, but consider such specialties as the Oaxacan grouper, pepita-encrusted salmon, and fried quail. Margaritas flow, dinner portions are generous, and a tableside guacamole is sabrosisimo. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. 12796 Manchester, 314-441-7060; 1235 Washington, 314621-2700; rosalitascantina.com. $$

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). B R E A K FA S T A N D

PI PIZZERIA

LUNCH, MON–SAT, DINNER MON–FRI.

President Barack Obama’s favorite pizza comes in thin-crust and deep-dish styles, with Pi’s distinctive

952 Brookwood Center, 636-343-8900; 14888 Clayton; russellscafe.com. $

P I Z ZA .

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Make Memories

at BalaBan’s

Catering • Retail Wines • Party Rooms 1772 Clarkson rd. at Baxter Chesterfield, Mo 63017 Phone: 636.449.6700

www.balabanswine.com

Sicilian Pizzeria & Artisan Café

BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER BRUNCH SAT & SUN LOCATED AT LEMP & ARSENAL 314-343-0294 cafepiazza.com

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RUTH’S CHRIS STEAKHOUSE

SPIRO’S

AND DINNER DAILY. 626 Washington,

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. DINNER DAILY. 1 N. Brentwood, 314-783-9900; 315 Chestnut, 314-2593200; ruthschris.com. $$$$

GREEK. Specialties include steak krasa-

314-254-7953; 8½ S. Euclid, 314-9327182; tazestreetfood.com. $

STEAKHOUSE.

to and rack of lamb with scallops. Created tableside, a Greek salad is a nice touch. And don’t forget to save room for a piece of house-made baklava. HOURS VA RY BY L O CAT I O N. See website for locations, spiros-restaurant.com. $$$

SUGARFIRE SMOKE HOUSE SALT + SMOKE A singular focus on “barbecue, bourbon, and beer” translates to loads of meat, craft and barrel-aged cocktails, and more than 40 bourbons. Don’t-miss sides include fried house pickles with flaxseed mayo, hush puppies with maple butter, and burnt-end T-ravs. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 6525 Delmar, 314-727-0200; 5625 Hampton; saltandsmokestl.com. $$ BARBECUE.

SASHA’S WINE BAR. At the flagship, on DeMun, enjoy a wine flight on the always-lively patio before taking a stroll in the seminary grounds across the street. The Shaw location boasts two bars, funky décor, and an equally fetching patio. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. 4069 Shaw, 314-771-7274; 706 DeMun, 314-863-7174; sashaswinebar.com. $$

SAUCE ON THE SIDE ITALIAN. 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. L U N C H A N D D I N N E R M O N – SAT. See website for locations, eatcalzones.com. $

BARBECUE. Yes, we have other phenomenal BBQ joints, but none matches Sugarfire for inventive dishes and the most exquisite brisket outside Texas. It’s fun and decidedly informal, with patrons eating daily specials off metal trays. LUNCH A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. See website for locations, sugarfiresmokehouse.com. $$

SUGO’S SPAGHETTERIA 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, 314-5690400; 243 Harvard, Edwardsville, 618-659-4640; sugoscucina.com. $$

SWEETIE PIE’S S O U T H E R N . “Miss Robbie” Montgomery is the no-nonsense matriarch of this legendary soul-food joint, the lead on the popular TV show Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s. Try the famous fried chicken, cobbler, and mac and cheese. H O U R S VA R Y B Y L O CAT I O N . See website for locations, sweetiepieskitchen.com. $

THE TAVERN KITCHEN & BAR The Tavern serves artful comfort food. The Seafood Trio and Surf & Turf tasting boards are standouts. There are also vegetarian, glutenfree, and kids’ menus. Don’t miss the donuts and house-infused cocktails. H O U R S VA RY B Y L O C AT I O N . 392 N. Euclid, 314-696-8400; 2961 Dougherty Ferry, 636-825-0600; tavernstl.com. $$$ AMERICAN.

SEOUL TACO KOREAN. Owner David Choi mashes up such Korean staples as bulgogi and spicy pork with Mexican musts like tacos and burritos. Choi’s 24-hour meat marination process almost guarantees a return visit. LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, seoultaco.com. $

THE SHACK

TAZÉ MEDITERRANEAN STREET FOOD

A M E R I CA N . Omelets and skillets lead the breakfast menu; lunch features piledhigh sandwiches, such as the Leftovers dish—bacon-wrapped meatloaf topped with melted Provolone. H O U R S VA RY BY LO CATION. See website for locations, shackstl.com. $

M E D I T E R R A 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. LUNCH

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THREE KINGS PUBLIC HOUSE BAR & GRILL . 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 everrotating selection. LU N C H A N D D I N NER DAILY. See website for locations, threekingspub.com. $$

TUCKER’S PLACE S T E A K H O 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. LU N C H M O N – SAT, DINNER DAILY. See website for locations, tuckersplacestl.com. $$

WALNUT GRILL A M E R I C A N . The first Missouri expansion of a mini-chain 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. LUNCH MON–SAT, DINNER DAILY, BRUNCH SUN. See website for locations, eatwalnut.com. $$$

WASABI SUSHI BAR JAPANESE/SUSHI. The popular local chain serves up sushi, noodles, and other Japanese fare. Go with the Wasabi combinations, or consider the generously portioned bento. See website for locations, wasabisushibars.com. $$

’ZZA PIZZA + SALAD PIZZA . Though individual, oblong pizzas get the spotlight, don’t overlook the freshly mixed salads with ingredients like falafel and tortilla chips. It’s great for weekday lunches, and it’s kid-compatible. There’s also a good selection of local beers. LUN C H A N D D I N N E R DA I LY. See website for locations, zza-pizza.com. $

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Index

NEIGHBORHOOD ABBREVIATIONS: Downtown (DT) p. 5 / Midtown & Grand Center (MGC) p. 8 /

Soulard, Benton Park, Lafayette Square (SBL) p. 12 / South City & County (SCC) p. 15 / North City & County (NCC) p. 23 / Central West End (CWE) p. 26 / Dogtown & The Hill (DTH) p. 31 / University City & the Delmar Loop (UCD) p. 32 / Clayton (CT) p. 36 / Ladue, Frontenac, Creve Coeur & Olivette (LFCO) p. 40 / Maplewood, Brentwood, Richmond Heights & the Hi-Pointe Area (MBR) p. 43 / Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Rock Hill & Des Peres (KWRD) p. 46 / Far West County (FWC) p. 50 / St. Charles & Beyond (SCB) p. 52 / Metro East (ME) p. 55 / Multiple Locations (ML) p. 58

AFGHAN

Social (FWC), Winslow’s Home (UCD)

and Distillery (SBL), Tapped (MBR), Three

$$ Sameem (SCC)

$$$ 1764 Public House (CWE), Avenue (CT),

Kings Public House (ML), Three Monkeys

BC’s Kitchen (SCB), Billie-Jean (CT), Big Sky

(SCC), Trailhead Brewing Co. (SCB), Wheel-

AMERICAN $ Baileys’ Range (DT), Blues City Deli (SBL),

Café (KWRD), Bishop’s Post (FWC), Bound-

house Bar & Restaurant (DT)

ary (MBR), Bricktop’s (LFCO), Cardwell’s

$$$ The Scottish Arms (CWE), Weber Grill

Blueberry Hill (UCD), Carl’s Drive In (MBR),

at the Plaza (LFCO), Cleveland–Heath

Restaurant (MBR)

Cathy’s Kitchen (NCC), City Diner (SCC),

(ME), Cooper’s Hawk (FWC), Copia Res-

Colleen’s (UCD), Crown Candy Kitchen

taurant and Urban Winery (DT), EdgeWild

(NCC), The Dam (SCC), Dave & Tony’s Pre-

Restaurant & Winery (FWC), Farmhaus

BARBECUE $$ Adam’s Smokehouse (SCC), BEAST Craft

mium Burger Joint (LFCO), Fitz’s (UCD), The

(SCC), Frazer’s Restaurant & Lounge

BBQ (ME), The BBQ Saloon (CWE), Big Baby

Fountain on Locust (MGC), Fred & Ricky’s

(SBL), Gallagher’s (ME), Gerard’s Restau-

Q and Smokehouse (NCC), Bogart’s Smoke-

(ML), Gioia’s Deli (ML), Goody Goody Diner

rant (KWRD), Herbie’s (CT), The Libertine

house (SBL), Capitalist Pig BBQ (SBL), Dalie’s

(NCC), Hi-Pointe Drive-In (MBR), Kingside

(CT), Mike Shannon’s Grill (ME), Nathalie’s

Smokehouse (FWC), Dixon’s Smoke Com-

Diner (CWE), Mauhaus Cat Café & Lounge

(CWE), Olive+Oak (KWRD), Pangea (SCB),

pany (MGC), Hendricks BBQ (SCB), Hick’s

(MBR), Milque Toast Bar (SCC), Olivette Din-

Paulo’s at the Mansion (ME), Polite Society

BBQ (ME), Honey Pit Smokehouse (KWRD),

er (LFCO), The Original Pancake House (ML),

(SBL), Prasino (SCB), The Preston (CWE),

J. Smug’s GastroPit (DTH), Pappy’s Smoke-

Peacock Loop Diner (UCD), Revel Kitchen

Remy’s Kitchen & Wine Bar (CT), The Res-

house (MGC), Salt + Smoke (ML), The Shaved

(MBR), The Shack (ML), Shift, Test Kitchen

taurant (CT), The Restaurant at the Cheshire

Duck (SCC), Spare No Rib (SCC), The Stellar

& Take Out (DT), The Slider House (KWRD),

(MBR), SqWires (SBL), Sunset 44 Bistro

Hog (SCC), Sugarfire Smoke House (ML),

Southwest Diner (SCC), Spencer’s Grill

(KWRD), Table Three (FWC), The Tavern

Twin Oak Wood-Fired Pizza and BBQ (MBR),

(KWRD), St. Louis Wing Company (KWRD),

Kitchen & Bar (ML), Veritas Gateway to Food

Vernon’s BBQ & Catering (UCD)

Stacked Burger Bar (SCC), The Tattooed Dog

& Wine (FWC), Vicia (CWE), Walnut Grill

(SCB), Whitebox Eatery (CT), Wicked Greenz

(ML), Wild Flower Restaurant & Bar (CWE)

(CT), Yolklore (SCC)

$$$$ Annie Gunn’s (FWC), Firebirds Wood

CAFÉ AND/OR BAKERY $ Benton Park Café (SBL), Café Ventana

$$ Almonds Restaurant (CT), Anthony’s

Fired Grill (SCB), Five Bistro (DTH), The Grill

(MGC), City Coffee House & Crêperie (CT),

Bar (DT), Balaban’s (FWC), Ballpark Village

(CT), Privado (UCD), Scape (CWE), Sidney

Companion Café (ML), Daily Bread Bakery

(DT), Billy G’s Kirkwood (KWRD), Bixby’s

Street Café (SBL), Stone Soup Cottage (SCB)

and Café (KWRD), Edibles & Essentials

(CWE), The Block (ML), The Blue Duck

(SCC), Hartford Coffee Company (SCC), Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Café (ML), Kaldi’s

house (CWE), Braddens Restaurant (SCB),

ASIAN $ Bobo Noodle House (UCD), Guerrilla Street

Bridge Tap House and Wine Bar (DT), Café

Food (SCC), Kalbi Taco Shack (SCC), Lona’s

serie Chouquette (SCC), London Tea Room

Osage (CWE), Central Table (CWE), The

Lil Eats (SCC)

(SCC), Mary Ann’s Tea Room (CWE), The

Chase Club (CWE), Circa STL (KWRD),

$$ Asia (SCB), Everest Café & Bar (SCC),

Mud House (SCC), Nadoz Bakery + Café

The Copper Pig (SCC), Curtain Call Lounge

Kounter Kulture (SCC), Lulu Seafood and

(MBR), Nathaniel Reid Bakery (KWRD),

(MGC), Eclipse (UCD), EdgeWild Bistro &

Dim Sum (UCD), Poke Doke (CWE), Wang

Nourish by Hollyberry (KWRD), Picasso’s

Tap (LFCO), Element (SBL), Extra Brut (CT),

Gang Asian Eats (ME)

Coffee House (SCB), Russell’s Café & Bak-

Five Star Burgers (ML), Fletcher’s Kitchen

$$$ Hiro Asian Kitchen (DT)

ery (ML), Soulard Coffee Garden Café (SBL),

(MBR), Blue Sky Tower Grill (MBR), The Boat-

& Tap (ME), Fox & Hounds Tavern (MBR),

(ML), La Bonne Bouchée (LFCO), La Pâtis-

SweetArt (SCC), Union Loafers (SCC), VB Chocolate Bar (SCB)

mous Fried Chicken (MBR), Half & Half (ML),

BAR & GRILL , BREWERY & PUB $ The Crow’s Nest (MBR), Mike Duffy’s

Hendel’s Market Café & Wine Bar (NCC), J

Pub & Grill (ML), O’Connell’s Pub (SCC),

(KWRD), Egg (SBL), Rooster (ML)

Fire’s Market Bistro (ME), Jazz at the Bis-

The Post Sports Bar and Grill (ML), Urban

$$$ Cravings (KWRD)

tro (MGC), Kirkwood Brewhouse (KWRD),

Chestnut Brewing Company (ML), West

Lascelles Granite City (ME), Lemmons by

End Grill & Pub (CWE)

Grbic (SCC), Lewis and Clark’s (SCB), Local

$$ Biggies Restaurant and Bar (SCC), Circle

Chef Kitchen (FWC), Louie’s Wine Dive (CT),

7 Ranch Taphouse & Grill (FWC), Dressel’s

CAJUN/CREOLE $ Who Dat’s Southern Food (ME) $$ Broadway Oyster Bar (DT), Evangeline’s

Lucas Park Grille (DT), Panorama (CWE),

Public House (CWE), Helen Fitzgerald’s

Bistro (CWE), L’Acadiane (SBL), Sister Cities

Piccadilly at Manhattan (SCC), Pig & Pickle

(SCC), Joey B’s (ML), Layla (SCC), Lester’s

Cajun (SCC)

Eatery (CWE), Planter’s House (SBL), The

Sports Bar (LFCO), Llywelyn’s Pub (ML),

$$$ Gulf Shores Restaurant & Grill (ML),

Purple Martin (SCC), Quincy Street Bistro

McGurk’s (ML), Michael’s Bar and Grill

Molly’s in Soulard (SBL)

(SCC), Reeds American Table (MBR), Retreat

(MBR), The Muddled Pig Gastropub (MBR),

Gastropub (CWE), Rock & Brews (FWC),

The Pat Connolly Tavern (DTH), Schlafly

Snax Gastrobar (SCC), Sub Zero Vodka Bar

Bottleworks (MBR), Schlafly Tap Room

CHINESE $ Corner 17 (UCD), Soup Dumplings STL

(CWE), Tin Roof (DT), Triumph Grill (MGC),

(DT), Seamus McDaniel’s (DTH), Sports-

(UCD)

Turn (MGC), Water Street (MBR), Westport

man’s Park (LFCO), Square One Brewery

$$ Cat Zone Café (UCD), Chef Ma’s Chinese

The Garden on Grand (SCC), Gus’s World Fa-

$$ Baileys’ Chocolate Bar (SBL), Cyrano’s

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Gourmet Restaurant (NCC), Joy Luck Buffet

$$$ Agostino’s (ME), Bar Italia (CWE), Bar-

(MBR), Private Kitchen (UCD), Wonton King

tolino’s Osteria (ML), Benedetto’s on Main

(UCD), Yen Ching (MBR)

(FWC), Brazie’s Ristorante (DTH), Brio Tus-

SOUTHERN $ Southern (MGC), Sweetie Pie’s (ML) $$ Byrd & Barrel (SCC), Grace Meat + Three

can Grill (LFCO), Café Napoli (CT), Charlie

(SCC), Hodak’s (SCC), Juniper (CWE)

ETHIOPIAN $$ Meskerem (SCC)

Gitto’s (ML), Del Pietro’s (MBR), Dominic’s

Giovanni’s Kitchen (LFCO), I Fratellini (CT),

SOUTH AMERICAN, CENTRAL AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN $ Venice Café (SBL) $$ Boogaloo (MBR), Brasilia Bar & Restau-

Il Bel Lago (LFCO), J.F. Sanfilippo’s Italian

rant (SCC), Fritanga (SCC), Mango (DT),

Restaurant & Bar (DT), Lombardo’s (ML),

Maya Café (MBR), Yemanja Brasil (SBL)

Ouzaria Taverna (UCD), Tazé Mediterranean

Lorenzo’s Trattoria (DTH), LoRusso’s Cucina

$$$ Tucanos Brazilian Grill (SCB)

Street Food (ML), The Vine (SCC)

(SCC), Napoli 2 (FWC), Paul Manno’s Café

$$ Café Natasha’s (SCC), Dreamland Palace

(FWC), Peppe’s Apt. 2 (KWRD), Roberto’s

(ME), Grbic (SCC), Hofbräuhaus St. Louis–

Trattoria (SCC), Sapore Italian Café (KWRD),

Belleville (ME), Kaslik Mediterranean Cuisine

Trattoria Toscana (SCC)

STEAKHOUSE $$ Tucker’s Place (ML) $$$ Frederick’s Steakhouse & Pizzeria

(NCC), Olio (SCC), Sheesh (SCC)

$$$$ Cielo (DT), Dominic’s on The Hill

(NCC), Gamlin Whiskey House (CWE)

$$$ Aya Sofia (SCC), Bar Les Freres (CT),

(DTH), John Mineo’s (FWC), Kemoll’s Ital-

$$$$ 1818 Chophouse (ML), 1904 Steak-

Brasserie by Niche (CWE), Café Provencal (KWRD), Elaia (SCC), Spiro’s (ML),Vin de Set (SBL), Ya Ya’s Euro Bistro (FWC)

ian Restaurant (DT), Tony’s (DT), Tony’s on

house (SCC), 801 Chophouse (CT), Al’s

Main Street (SCB)

Restaurant (DT), Andria’s Countryside

$$$$ The Crossing (CT), Parigi (CT)

JAPANESE AND/OR SUSHI $ BLK MKT Eats (CWE) $$ Café Mochi (SCC), Midtown Sushi and

Steak & Pasta (SCB), The Capital Grille (CT),

Ramen (MGC), Nobu’s (UCD), Nudo House

Steakhouse & Wine Bar (LFCO), J. Gilbert’s

(UCD), India Palace (NCC), Mr. Currys India

(LFCO), Robata (MBR), Seven Sushi Bar

(KWRD), Kreis’ Steakhouse & Bar (LFCO),

Restaurant (ML), Saffron Indian Cuisine

(ME), Siam (SCC), Sub Zero Vodka Bar

Morton’s the Steakhouse (DT), Ruth’s Chris

(KWRD)

(CWE), Sushi Sen (SCB), The Sushi Station

Steakhouse (ML), The Tenderloin Room

(KWRD), Tani Sushi Bistro (CT), VISTA Ra-

(CWE), Twisted Tree Steakhouse (SCC)

Trattoria (CT), Eleven Eleven Mississippi (SBL), Frank Papa’s Ristorante (MBR), Gian-

EUROPEAN (FRENCH, GERMAN, GREEK, MEDITERRANEAN, & MORE) $ Medina Mediterranean Grill (DT), Momos

Tony’s (DTH), Gianfabio’s Italian Café (FWC),

INDIAN $$ ABQ-Indian Grill (FWC), House of India

(ME), Andria’s Restaurant (ME), Bugatti’s

ITALIAN AND/OR PIZZA $ Angelo’s Pizzeria (NCC), Crushed Red

men (SCC), Wasabi Sushi Bar (ML)

(ML), East Coast Pizza (FWC), Epic Pizza and

Fish (ML), Nippon Tei (FWC), Yori (FWC)

$$$ BaiKu Sushi Lounge (MGC), Drunken

Subs (SBL), Sauce on the Side (ML), ’ZZA

Carmine’s Steakhouse (DT), Citizen Kane’s Steakhouse (KWRD), Fleming’s Prime

THAI $ Fork & Stix (UCD) $$ Addie’s Thai House (FWC), Basil Spice

KOREAN $ Asian Kitchen Korean Cuisine (UCD), Kim-

(SCC), King & I (SCC), Manee Thai (FWC),

$$ Acero (MBR), Anthonino’s Taverna (DTH), Basso (MBR), Café Piazza (SBL),

cheese (ML), Seoul Taco (ML)

Sunisa’s Thai Restaurant (SCB), Thai House

Pizza + Salad (ML)

Charlie Gitto’s Downtown (DT), Cibare Italian

Pearl Café (NCC), Sen Thai Asian Bistro (DT), (ME), Thai Kitchen (SCB)

(NCC), Cunetto House of Pasta (DTH), Dew-

MEXICAN & PAN-LATIN $ El Toluco Taqueria (FWC), La Vallesana

ey’s Pizza (ML), Farotto’s Pizzeria (KWRD),

(SCC), Mayana Mexican Chicken (CT), Mi

Favazza’s (DTH), Felix’s Pizza Pub (DTH),

Tierra Tienda y Taqueria (ME), Mission Taco

Fratelli’s Ristorante (SCB), Guido’s Pizze-

Joint (ML), Nachomama’s (KWRD), Taco Cir-

ria & Tapas (DTH), Hugo’s Pizzeria (MGC),

cus (SCC), Taqueria Durango (NCC)

Humble Pie (LFCO), JJ Twig’s Pizza & Pub

$$ Amigos Cantina (KWRD), Atomic Cowboy

VIETNAMESE $ Banh Mi So #1 Saigon Gourmet (SCC),

(ML), Joe Boccardi’s Ristorante (ML), Katie’s

(SCC), Cantina Laredo (CT), Canyon Café

Pho Grand (SCC), Pho Long (UCD)

Pizza and Pasta (ML), La Pizza (UCD), Louie

(LFCO), El Burro Loco (CWE), Hacienda

$$ Lemongrass (SCC), Little Saigon Café

(CT), Mangia Italiano (SCC), LoRusso’s on

(KWRD), Milagro Modern Mexican (KWRD),

(CWE), Mai Lee (MBR), Monsoon Vietnam-

Grand (MGC), Melo’s Pizzeria (SBL), Onesto

Nixta (SCC), Pueblo Nuevo (NCC), Pueblo

ese Bistro (FWC), VietNam Style (UCD)

(SCC), The Pasta House Co. (ML), Pastaria

Solis (SCC), Rosalita’s Cantina (ML)

(CT), Peel Wood Fired Pizza (ML), Peno

$$$ Mariscos el Gato (SCC), Público (UCD)

WINE BAR AND/OR SMALL PLATES $$ 33 Wine Shop & Bar (SBL), Barcelona

MIDDLE EASTERN $$ The Palm Trees (SCC)

Tapas Restaurant (CT), Bella Vino Wine

Kitchen (SCC), Cugino’s Italian Bar and Grill

(CT), Pi Pizzeria (ML), Pirrone’s Pizza (ML), Pizza Head (SCC), Pizzeoli (SBL), Pizzeria Tivoli (SCC), Plank Road Pizza (SCB), Porano Pasta (DT), PW Pizza (SBL), Randolfi’s (UCD),

VEGETARIAN $ Lulu’s Local Eatery (SCC) $$ Small Batch (MGC), Tree House (SCC)

Bar & Tapas (SCB), Cork Wine Bar (NCC), The Dark Room (MGC), Ernesto’s Wine Bar (SBL), Guido’s Pizzeria & Tapas (DTH),

Pint (DT), Sugo’s Spaghetteria (ML), Trat-

SEAFOOD $$ DeMun Oyster Bar (CT), The Peacemaker

toria Marcella (SCC), Twin Oak Wood-Fired

Lobster & Crab Company (SBL)

North (KWRD), Robust (ML), Sanctuaria

Pizza and BBQ (MBR), Vincenzo’s Italian Res-

$$$ Bonefish Grill (MBR), Bristol Seafood

(SCC), Sasha’s (ML), Scarlett’s Wine Bar

taurant (NCC), Vito’s in the Valley (FWC),

Grill (ML), Oceano Bistro (CT)

(CWE), Taste (CWE), Three Sixty (DT), Via

Vito’s Sicilian Pizza & Ristorante (MGC),

$$$$ 801 Fish (CT)

Vino Enoteca (LFCO), The Wine Tap (ME)

Rigazzi’s (DTH), Sardella (CT), The Sliced

Handcrafted by Bissinger’s (CWE), One 19

Yaquis on Cherokee (SCC), Zia’s (DTH)

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