12 Insanely Unique Restaurants in St Louis, MO You Have to Try

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In the heart of the Midwest, St. Louis offers a culinary landscape bursting with bucket-list-worthy adventure. From inventive takes on comfort food to one-of-a-kind international flavors, this city has it all. St. Louis is known for its iconic toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake, yet its dining scene stretches far beyond tradition. Picture quirky retro diners, hidden speakeasies, and globally inspired fusion spots—all waiting to wow your taste buds. Whether you’re a foodie or just craving something out of the ordinary, St. Louis promises a lineup of insanely unique restaurants that redefine the art of dining.

👉 Pro Tip: You’ve gotta try this St. Louis food tour! Think gooey butter cake, the crispiest toasted ravioli, and a lineup of local breweries tailored to your taste—whether it’s the boutique vibe of Side Project Brewing or the massive Anheuser-Busch campus. You’ll get epic beer-and-BBQ pairings and a crash course in St. Louis’s food history.

Unique Restaurants in St. Louis, Missouri: 12 Incredible St. Louis Eateries

Are you ready to explore the most unique restaurants in St. Louis? As noted earlier, there’s a wide range of places to eat in St. Louis to suit all tastes and budgets. Keep reading to find out where to eat in St. Louis, MO.

Are you looking for a rooftop dining experience with panoramic city views? Or would you rather dive into a fusion dish where East meets West? Whatever your palate desires, St. Louis can accommodate your needs. Here’s your in-depth guide to the most unique restaurants in St. Louis.

1. The Fountain on Locust

• 📍 Location: Midtown
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Retro Soda Fountain / American Cafe / Ice Cream & Cocktails
• 🔥 Standout Features: Art Deco interior, “ice cream Martinis,” hand-painted murals.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Unique dessert dates, retro glamour fans, and boozy ice cream.

Step into a dazzling Art Deco dream at The Fountain on Locust! This Midtown St. Louis gem is a beautifully restored 1930s soda fountain, complete with stunning hand-painted murals and an atmosphere of vintage glamour. The air is sweet with house-made ice cream.

You’ll certainly want to try one of their famous “ice cream Martinis,” like the “Chocolate Raspberry Rendezvous.” Their classic, over-the-top sundaes and the “World’s Smallest Hot Fudge Sundae” are also delightful. The savory menu offers tasty soups and sandwiches.

2. Winslow’s Table & Bakery

• 📍 Location: University City
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: New American / Farm-to-Table / Bakery & Market
• 🔥 Standout Features: Market/restaurant combo, local/seasonal focus, beautiful bakery.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Stylish brunches/lunches, locavore foodies, and artisanal baked goods.

Experience a charming blend of neighborhood market and sophisticated eatery at Winslow’s Table & Bakery in University City. This beautifully curated spot is all about celebrating local, seasonal ingredients, with a delightful bakery, a small market area, and a restaurant.

You’ll certainly want to try their amazing brunch dishes, like the seasonal frittata or their famous biscuits with gravy. The grain bowl is a popular healthy choice, and their selection of homemade pastries and artisanal breads is not to be missed.

3. Crown Candy Kitchen

• 📍 Location: Old North St. Louis
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Historic Soda Fountain / American Diner / Candy Store
• 🔥 Standout Features: Iconic STL institution, famous BLT/malted milkshakes, vintage candy.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Nostalgic diner experiences, BLT connoisseurs, and old-fashioned sweet treats.

Take a delicious trip down memory lane at Crown Candy Kitchen, a St. Louis institution that’s been serving up sweet treats and classic diner fare since 1913! This Old North St. Louis gem is like stepping into a time capsule, with its vintage soda fountain.

You absolutely have to try their legendary BLT sandwich, piled high with crispy bacon. Wash it down with a thick, hand-dipped malted milkshake or a chocolate phosphate. Their chili dog is another classic. Don’t forget to grab some homemade candy!

4. Fox & Hounds Tavern

• 📍 Location: Clayton, The Cheshire Hotel
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: British Pub Fare / Gastropub
• 🔥 Standout Features: English pub ambiance, cozy/historic hotel, classic pub grub.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Anglophiles, cozy fireside drinks, and British comfort food.

Cheerio! Escape to a cozy corner of Britain at Fox & Hounds Tavern, nestled within the charming, Tudor-style Cheshire hotel in Clayton. This place is the epitome of an authentic English pub, with dark wood, roaring fireplaces, and a wonderfully warm atmosphere.

A smart move is to try classic British pub fare, like hearty fish and chips, a traditional shepherd’s pie, or satisfying bangers and mash. The Scotch egg is also a popular starter. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a pint.

5. Salt + Smoke

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations including The Loop, Hampton
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: St. Louis Style BBQ / Southern
• 🔥 Standout Features: St. Louis BBQ, craft beer, bourbon selection, lively.
• 🎯 Perfect For: BBQ lovers, bourbon drinkers, and casual group meals.

Get your St. Louis barbecue fix at Salt + Smoke! This popular spot, with multiple locations, serves up delicious slow-smoked meats with all the classic Southern sides. The atmosphere is always lively and filled with the tempting aroma of barbecue.

You really should try their St. Louis cut ribs or the tender pulled pork. The beef brisket is another standout. For sides, the white cheddar cracker mac and pit beans with bacon are crowd-pleasers. Their extensive bourbon list is also a draw.

6. Blueberry Hill

• 📍 Location: Delmar Loop
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Pub Grub / Eclectic
• 🔥 Standout Features: Iconic STL institution, pop culture memorabilia, live music (Duck Room).
• 🎯 Perfect For: Music/pop culture fans, casual fun/history, and iconic St. Louis.

Get ready to rock ‘n’ roll (and eat!) at Blueberry Hill, an absolute St. Louis icon in the Delmar Loop! This place is a vibrant explosion of pop culture memorabilia, and a legendary live music venue, home to the Duck Room where Chuck Berry frequently performed.

A wise choice involves grabbing one of their famous burgers, like the “Blueberry Hill Burger”. A hearty sandwich or their homemade chili are also popular. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a museum of cool and a fantastic place to hang out.

7. The Mud House

• 📍 Location: Cherokee Street
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Coffeehouse / Bakery / Eclectic Cafe Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Cozy coffeehouse, excellent coffee/baked goods, creative vegetarian/vegan.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Coffee lovers, casual breakfast/lunch, and relaxed artsy vibe.

Settle into a cozy, bohemian haven at The Mud House on Cherokee Street. This beloved neighborhood coffeehouse and bakery is the perfect spot to unwind with an excellent cup of coffee and some delicious, homemade food. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming.

You absolutely have to try one of their amazing lattes or pour-overs. Pair it with a fresh scone, a slice of their quiche, or the popular “Slinger” for breakfast. Their creative vegetarian and vegan sandwiches are also fantastic.

8. The Last Kitchen

• 📍 Location: Webster Groves
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $75 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Upscale Casual
• 🔥 Standout Features: Acclaimed neighborhood spot, seasonal ingredients, lively bar.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Upscale neighborhood dining, special occasions, and seasonal food fans.

Experience culinary excellence in a lively neighborhood setting at Olive + Oak in Webster Groves. This highly acclaimed restaurant is known for its consistently delicious modern American cuisine, focus on seasonal ingredients, and a warm, bustling atmosphere.

You’ll want to make a reservation well in advance. Consider their renowned O+O Burger or the flavorful blue crab gratin. Their fresh pasta dishes and perfectly cooked scallops are also frequently praised. The cocktails are top-notch.

9. Seoul Taco

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations, including The Loop
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Korean-Mexican Fusion / Street Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Korean-Mexican street food, food truck origins, vibrant/casual.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Korean BBQ taco fans, adventurous street food, and quick flavorful eats.

Get ready for a flavor collision that’s pure magic at Seoul Taco! This hugely popular spot brings the incredible flavors of Korean BBQ and Mexican street food together in perfect harmony. The vibe is always energetic and fun, with a vibrant, modern feel.

You absolutely, positively must try their signature bulgogi beef tacos or a loaded gogi bowl with spicy pork and kimchi fried rice. Their kimchi slaw and the sweet potato waffle fries are also fantastic, tangy sides.

10. Pi Pizzeria

• 📍 Location: Botanical Heights
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Bakery / Cafe / Sandwiches & Pizza
• 🔥 Standout Features: Artisan bread bakery, wood-fired pizzas, seasonal sandwiches.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Bread enthusiasts, wood-fired pizza lovers, and casual cafe dining.

Prepare for bread nirvana at Union Loafers Cafe and Bread Bakery. This Botanical Heights gem is renowned for its incredible artisan breads, which form the foundation for their delicious sandwiches and wood-fired pizzas. The aroma of baking bread is simply divine.

It’s a great idea to try their wood-fired pizzas, like the classic Margherita or a seasonal special. Their sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, such as the “Little Gem” salad sandwich or the smoked turkey, are exceptional. Don’t leave without a loaf to take home.

11. Rooster

• 📍 Location: South Grand & Downtown
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: European Cafe / Crepes / Brunch
• 🔥 Standout Features: Sweet/savory crepes, European cafe ambiance, popular brunch.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Crepe lovers, delightful brunches/lunches, and European cafe culture.

Bonjour, St. Louis! Get whisked away to a charming European cafe at Rooster. This bright and airy spot is renowned for its incredible selection of both sweet and savory crepes, alongside other delicious brunch and lunch fare. The atmosphere is bustling and cheerful.

You’ll certainly want to try one of their amazing crepes – perhaps a savory one filled with ham and Gruyère or the goat cheese & fine herbs. For a sweet treat, the Nutella and banana crepe is a classic. Their frites are also fantastic.

12. Vicia

• 📍 Location: Cortex Innovation Community
• 💲 Price range: $75 – $150+ per person (Tasting menu focus)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Vegetable-Forward / Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Vegetable-focused tasting menus, innovative/artistic plating, focus on local/seasonal.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous fine dining, vegetable lovers, and special occasion splurges.

Experience an innovative and beautiful approach to dining at Vicia, located in the Cortex Innovation Community. This acclaimed restaurant focuses on vegetable-forward cuisine, transforming seasonal, locally sourced ingredients into works of art. The tasting menus are a journey.

You’ll find standout dishes like the crispy potatoes with aioli, the chicken fried oyster mushrooms, or inventive turnip shell tacos. Their tasting menus showcase the best of what’s in season with creative flair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Most Unique Restaurants in St. Louis, MO

Are you looking for more content about where to eat in St. Louis, Missouri? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about St. Louis’s most unique restaurants.

What food is St. Louis famous for?

The St. Louis-style pizza stands out with its thin crust and unique Provel cheese blend. Another must-try is the toasted ravioli, a delightful appetizer that’s breaded and deep-fried, often accompanied by marinara sauce. And for those with a sweet tooth, the St. Louis butter cake offers a rich and gooey treat that’s hard to resist.

Where to eat in St. Louis 2023?

Based on Yelp’s latest recommendations for 2023, here are some of the best places to eat in St. Louis, Missouri:

• The Fattened Caf.: Specializing in Filipino and Barbeque cuisine, this restaurant has a rating of 4.8 and is located in Gravois Park. It’s closed until Thursday but offers outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout.
• Idol Wolf: This Downtown restaurant offers Tapas and Spanish dishes. It has a rating of 4.1 and opens at 5:00 PM. It also offers outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout.
• Rosé by Peno: Located in Lafayette Square, this restaurant specializes in Seafood and Pizza and has a rating of 4.9. It opens at 5:00 PM and offers takeout.
• Fleur STL: This restaurant offers Breakfast, Brunch, Burgers, and Sandwiches and has a rating of 4.9. It’s located in Lasalle and is open until 3:00 PM.
• El Milagro Azteca: Specializing in Mexican and Caribbean cuisine, this restaurant is located in Southwest Garden and has a rating of 4.6. It opens at 11:00 AM and offers outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout.
• Bulrush STL: This American (New) restaurant is located in Covenant Blu/Grand Ctr. and has a rating of 4.8. It opens at 5:00 PM and offers outdoor seating, delivery, and takeout.
• La Calle: Specializing in New Mexican Cuisine and Tacos, this restaurant is located in Forest Park Southeast and has a rating of 5.0. It opens at 11:00 AM and offers outdoor seating and takeout.

Does St. Louis have a good food scene?

St. Louis boasts a diverse and evolving food scene. From historic diners dishing out timeless classics to contemporary restaurants offering innovative fusion dishes, the city caters to a wide range of culinary preferences. With its mix of traditional eateries and modern establishments, St. Louis provides a culinary journey that celebrates both its heritage and forward-looking trends.

Are there many themed restaurants in St. Louis?

Yes, St. Louis is home to several themed restaurants that offer unique dining experiences. Here are a few standout options:

1. Blueberry Hill – A rock ‘n’ roll haven filled with music memorabilia.
2. Boogaloo – Dive into a Creole-Cuban-Caribbean fusion with swing seats at the bar.
3. City Museum – More than just a museum, it offers dining amidst surrealistic art installations.
4. The Last Kitchen – Set in a historic hotel, it’s a blend of culinary delights and local art.

Is dining in St. Louis expensive?

St. Louis offers a range of dining options to fit various budgets. While there are upscale restaurants that provide fine dining experiences, the city also boasts numerous affordable eateries, food trucks, and cafes that deliver great value without compromising on taste.

What’s the best area in St. Louis for unique dining experiences?

The Delmar Loop is one of the most vibrant areas in St. Louis, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and bars. However, neighborhoods like Cherokee Street and South Grand also offer a plethora of unique dining spots worth exploring.

Are there vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in St. Louis?

Certainly! St. Louis is quite accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diets. Here are some top picks for unique plant-based dining:

1. Lulu’s Local Eatery – A popular spot offering a range of vegan bowls, wraps, and smoothies.
2. Seedz Cafe – Dive into organic, plant-based dishes in a cozy setting.
3. Pizza Head – Who said vegans can’t enjoy pizza? They offer vegan pies with all the toppings.
4. Confluence Kombucha – A gastro lab that experiments with fermented foods, offering a vegan-friendly menu.

What’s the best thing to eat in St. Louis?

St. Louis, Missouri, is a city rich in culinary diversity, offering everything from New Mexican brunch spots to award-winning fine-dining establishments. However, when it comes to the best thing to eat in St. Louis, the city is famous for a few iconic dishes:

• Gooey Butter Cake: This is a dense, buttery cake that’s almost like a cross between a cake and a brownie. It’s a must-try when you’re in the city.
• Toasted Ravioli: A St. Louis original, these are breaded and deep-fried ravioli, usually filled with meat or cheese and served with marinara sauce.
• St. Louis Style Pizza: Known for its thin, cracker-like crust and Provel cheese, a local specialty.
• St. Louis Style Barbecue: While not as famous as its counterparts in other cities, St. Louis BBQ, particularly the ribs, have a style and flavor all their own.

Wrapping Up St. Louis’ Unique Restaurants

St. Louis stands tall and proud, not just for its iconic Gateway Arch but also for its vibrant and diverse dining scene. From the historic neighborhoods echoing with tales of the past to the modern eateries pushing culinary boundaries, the city offers a wide range of flavors and experiences.

Whether you’re diving into a plate of the city’s iconic toasted ravioli, sipping cocktails atop a Ferris wheel, or discovering the magic of fusion foods, there’s never a dull moment on this culinary rollercoaster. And the best part? St. Louis caters to all – whether you’re on a shoestring budget or looking to splurge on a lavish dinner.

For those who’ve always wondered about the most unique restaurants in St. Louis, the journey is as delightful as the destination. Each visit unveils a new facet, a fresh taste, and a novel perspective. And while the dishes satiate the palate, the experiences feed the soul.

As you chart your culinary adventures in this dynamic city, remember that St. Louis is more than just a stopover. It’s a celebration of unique flavors, cultures, and stories. So, here’s to the unforgettable moments and meals that await in the heart of America’s Midwest. Cheers to St. Louis and its culinary wonders!