One of the better spots in town for beer-snobs and foodies alike, Square One Brewery & Distillery is a must-visit in St. Louis. Located in the heart of the vibrant Lafayette Square, only a short drive from downtown, this fully-functional brewery also seconds as a happening restaurant offering modern American cuisine along with classic standbys. The menu can be described as 'comfort food at its best' with a line-up of signature specialties like Pulled BBQ Pork, Smoked Salmon BLT, Fish & Chips, Crab Cakes, Bacon & Avocado Omelet, Cobb Salad and Buffalo Hot Wings. Post dining, patrons can sample some of the best micro-brews, crafted cocktails, wines and other spirits. The 13 beers on tap feature not only local brews but also a variety of imported ales. The atmosphere is laid-back and the service is top-notch. So, whether you are looking for a night-out destination or just want to venture outside downtown, come down to Square One Brewery.
"Fun and casual" is the name of the game at this American restaurant. Owners Thom and Jane Sehnert are friendly and well-known in the St. Louis community and culinary scene. Annie's serves great food, as evidenced by the always full dining room and perpetual line out the door. This restaurant is known for its steaks, but it also serves smoked meats, pork, fish, ribs, burgers and more. Outdoor dining is available.
The Royale is one of the best places in South City to get a bite, have a drink and mingle with a cool and diverse young crowd. The kitchen serves up tasty variations on classic pub food and the bar features a long list of custom cocktails. A large crowd of regulars and a steady stream of lively groups give this place a comfortable and exciting atmosphere unmatched in St. Louis.
This pub is as close to Dublin as you can get in St. Louis. You will find a large selection of beers, including 16 on tap, and live Irish bands frequently perform traditional Celtic music here. If you are looking for comfort food, especially on a chilly evening, try the traditional Irish potato soup, which is thick with potatoes, celery and onions and topped with cheese. If you are looking for the Irish-American favorite of corned beef and cabbage, you can order that, too. McGurk's was named Best Pub by an area publication.
Helmed by Skip Steele, Niki Puto, Michael Macchi and Brian Scoggins, Bogart's Smokehouse is among the best BBQ joints in town. It is better to come early than come later and be disappointed when everything is lapped up by BBQ enthusiasts. The meat is slow cooked on apple and cherry wood pits for nearly 24 hours. Dig into their succulent Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, Tri-Tip Sirloin, Ribs and Turkey that are smoky and sweet with right amount of spice.
St. Louis has a reputation for fine Italian restaurants, and Marcella's epitomizes that tradition. Located in the south city neighborhood of "The Hill", this unpretentious trattoria serves wonderful food while maintaining a warm neighborhood atmosphere. Appetizers include a marvelous pizza with truffle oil and a four-cheese pizza. The innovative house salad is a delightful mix of greens topped with tomato, red onion, mozzarella and pine nuts with balsamic tomato vinaigrette. This is a great place to hang out with some friends and is also light on the pocket.
Historic and famous Soulard Farmer's Market is the home of Julia's Market Cafe. Located in the southwest wing of the market, Julia's is known for their Bloody Mary, but is probably most popular as a place to go to quench that nagging hunger that develops while grocery shopping. Grab a sandwich or a kabob made from some of the local meats that are available in the market or get a quick dessert for a great price. The menu is not extensive, but on a nice day, the experience is certainly appreciated. Listen to the buskers on the sidewalk and enjoy the sun soaked patio while watching shoppers haggle for the best price. -Cathryn D. Blue
True to its name, Balkan Treat Box regales avid foodies with an array of savory bites. Focusing on whipping up Turkish delights and serving them in quaint boxes, the establishment has garnered acclaim for its minimal yet hearty meal plans which are not only healthy but also equally delicious. Pick from options such as grilled Balkan Burgers, grilled fish, beef sausages, wood-fired eggplants and flatbreads, and scrumptious salads among others. Round off your meal with Sutlija, a kind of rice pudding packed with tantalizing flavors.
St. Louis has a reputation for fine Italian restaurants, and Marcella's epitomizes that tradition. Located in the south city neighborhood of "The Hill", this unpretentious trattoria serves wonderful food while maintaining a warm neighborhood atmosphere. Appetizers include a marvelous pizza with truffle oil and a four-cheese pizza. The innovative house salad is a delightful mix of greens topped with tomato, red onion, mozzarella and pine nuts with balsamic tomato vinaigrette. This is a great place to hang out with some friends and is also light on the pocket.
Helmed by Skip Steele, Niki Puto, Michael Macchi and Brian Scoggins, Bogart's Smokehouse is among the best BBQ joints in town. It is better to come early than come later and be disappointed when everything is lapped up by BBQ enthusiasts. The meat is slow cooked on apple and cherry wood pits for nearly 24 hours. Dig into their succulent Pulled Pork, Beef Brisket, Tri-Tip Sirloin, Ribs and Turkey that are smoky and sweet with right amount of spice.
Built inside what once used to be a warehouse, The Civil Life Brewing Company has made the space more civilized and turned it into a pub. Brewed onsite, the ten beers on tap cover all the bases: there's a Prairie Pilsner, a Black Ale, an English Pale Ale, and more. Munch on pretzels filled with goat cheese while you play a board game from their selection. They don't accept credit cards, so come prepared with cash.
Bakers & Hale calls themselves a seed to table establishment. They take pride in growing their own ingredients in their garden and procure produce from nearby farms. There is a certain rusticity in the ambience with farm equipment as decorative elements along with vintage family photos of the owner on its walls. The inspired, seasonal menu of American comfort food and classics is delicious and has something for everyone. Enjoy happy hours at either of their bars inside or outside. Warm hospitality and a friendly staff ensure that dining here is a delight. Reservations are recommended.