St. Louis Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in St. Louis. Your complete guide to dining in St. Louis.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for St. Louis! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that St. Louis has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase St. Louis's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through St. Louis like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- St. Louis offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in St. Louis.
The Fountain on Locust
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 3447 reviews.
📍 3037 Locust St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Eleven Eleven Mississippi
Highly rated American in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 1729 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 1111 Mississippi Ave, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
Pappy's Smokehouse
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 9060 reviews.
📍 3106 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Olive + Oak
Highly rated American in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 1631 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 216 W Lockwood Ave, Webster Groves, MO 63119, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic American cuisine
City Foundry STL
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 3443 reviews.
📍 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Songbird
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 974 reviews.
📍 3153 Morgan Ford Rd, St. Louis, MO 63116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sugarfire Smoke House
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.5 stars from 7116 reviews.
📍 605 Washington Ave, St. Louis, MO 63101, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Anthonino's Taverna
Highly rated Italian in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 3860 reviews.
📍 2225 Macklind Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
360 Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.4 stars from 3052 reviews.
📍 One S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
No Ordinary Rabbit
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.8 stars from 109 reviews.
📍 1621 Tower Grove Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Charlie Gitto's On the Hill
Highly rated Italian in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 3037 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 5226 Shaw Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Italian cuisine
Salt + Smoke
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.3 stars from 2034 reviews.
📍 501 Clark Ave, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in St. Louis.
City Foundry STL
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 3443 reviews.
📍 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Soulard Farmers Market
Highly rated International in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 5424 reviews.
📍 730 Carroll St, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Global Foods Market
Highly rated International in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 2893 reviews.
📍 421 N Kirkwood Rd, Kirkwood, MO 63122, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Trader Joe's
Highly rated International in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 2681 reviews.
📍 48 Brentwood Promenade Ct, Brentwood, MO 63144, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Whole Foods Market
Highly rated International in St Louis with 4.4 stars from 2027 reviews.
📍 1601 S Brentwood Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63144, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Whole Foods Market
Highly rated International in St Louis with 4.4 stars from 2083 reviews.
📍 4577 W Pine Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
United Provisions
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 1364 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 6241 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Schnucks Downtown
Highly rated Bakery in St Louis with 4.1 stars from 2403 reviews. Fresh baked goods and pastries daily.
📍 315 N 9th St, St. Louis, MO 63101, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bakery cuisine
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in St. Louis.
TourCWE
Highly rated International in St Louis with 5 stars from 35 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Saint Charles Foodie Tours
Highly rated International in St Louis with 5 stars from 30 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in St. Louis.
MountainHouse Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 4.8 stars from 214 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2901 Macklind Ave, St. Louis, MO 63139, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Mauhaus Cat Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 4.8 stars from 2058 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3101 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Songbird
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 974 reviews.
📍 3153 Morgan Ford Rd, St. Louis, MO 63116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
The Mud House
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 1861 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2101 Cherokee St, St. Louis, MO 63118, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Speakeasy Café
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 4.8 stars from 197 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 527 Holly Hills Ave, St. Louis, MO 63111, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Living Room Coffee & Kitchen
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 727 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 2810 Sutton Blvd, Maplewood, MO 63143, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Coffee Culture/Cookie Hustle
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 328 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 5532 S Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63123, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Drip Community Coffee House STL
Highly rated Cafe in St Louis with 5 stars from 204 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 3615 Potomac St, St. Louis, MO 63116, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to St. Louis.
Signature Dish
A must-try St. Louis specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved St. Louis dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of St. Louis with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this St. Louis specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic St. Louis creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A St. Louis classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try St. Louis specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved St. Louis dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of St. Louis with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this St. Louis specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in St. Louis.
The Crack Fox
Highly rated Bar in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 794 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1114 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63101, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Narwhal's Crafted
Highly rated Bar in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 1598 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 3906 Laclede Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
360 Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in St Louis with 4.4 stars from 3052 reviews.
📍 One S Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Thaxton Speakeasy
Highly rated Bar in St Louis with 4.6 stars from 415 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1009 Olive St, St. Louis, MO 63101, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Westport Social
Highly rated Bar in St Louis with 4.4 stars from 3689 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 910 W Port Plaza Dr, St. Louis, MO 63146, USA
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Up-Down STL
Highly rated Bar in St Louis with 4.7 stars from 2679 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 405 N Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
St. Louis's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in St. Louis vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
St. Louis is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in St. Louis offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for St. Louis specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
Enjoyed this guide? Share it!