Located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, St. Louis is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and delicious food scene. From classic American comfort food to innovative international cuisine, St. Louis has a diverse range of restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences. In this article, we'll explore the best restaurants in St. Louis, highlighting their unique features, menu highlights, and what sets them apart from the rest.
Best Overall Restaurants in St. Louis
Here are some of the top-rated restaurants in St. Louis that offer a well-rounded dining experience:
- Annie Gunn's: This upscale restaurant in Chesterfield serves contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Enjoy dishes like roasted bone marrow and grilled filet mignon in an elegant atmosphere.
- The St. Louis Fish Market: Located in the heart of the city, this seafood restaurant offers a variety of fresh fish and shellfish, including oysters, lobster, and sushi.
- Pappy's Smokehouse: This popular barbecue joint in Soulard has been featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives." Try their slow-smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, and pulled pork.
- The Capital Grille: This high-end steakhouse in the Central West End offers dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list in an upscale atmosphere.
Best Restaurants in Specific Neighborhoods
The City of St. Louis has many distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and dining scene. Here are some top-rated restaurants in specific neighborhoods:

The Central West End is home to a variety of upscale restaurants, including:
- Five Bistro: This intimate French bistro serves classic dishes like escargots and duck confit in a cozy atmosphere.
- Ellie's Restaurant & Lounge: This modern American restaurant offers a seasonal menu with dishes like roasted chicken and grilled salmon.
The Soulard neighborhood is known for its historic charm and delicious Creole cuisine. Be sure to check out:
- Soulard Farmers Market: This historic market has been in operation since 1779 and offers a variety of fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.
- Satchmo's Bar-B-Que: This casual barbecue joint serves up tender meats and sides in a fun, lively atmosphere.
The CWE is also home to the famous The Hill, a historic Italian-American neighborhood with plenty of delicious Italian restaurants, including:

- Charlie Gitto's: This St. Louis institution has been serving up classic Italian-American cuisine since 1918, including their famous toasted ravioli.
- Adriana's: This cozy Italian restaurant offers a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian favorites in a warm atmosphere.
Best Budget-Friendly Restaurants in St. Louis
St. Louis has plenty of affordable dining options that won't break the bank. Here are some top-rated budget-friendly restaurants:
For a delicious and affordable meal, try:
- Ted Drewes: This classic Ted Drewes Frozen Custard has been a St. Louis staple since 1929. Try their famous concrete (a thick milkshake) or a cone with fresh custard.
- Imo's Pizza: This St. Louis favorite has been serving up thin-crust pizza since 1964. Try their classic cheese or toppings like sausage and mushrooms.
- Slim's Chicken & Waffles: This casual eatery serves up crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles in a fun atmosphere.
Best Brunch Spots in St. Louis
St. Louis has a lively brunch scene, with plenty of restaurants serving up delicious eggs, pancakes, and other morning favorites. Here are some top-rated brunch spots:
- The Flying Pan: This popular brunch spot in the Central West End offers a variety of omelets, waffles, and other morning favorites in a cozy atmosphere.
- Southside Charcoal Pit: This soul food restaurant in South St. Louis serves up classic brunch dishes like fried chicken and waffles, as well as Southern favorites like grits and biscuits and gravy.