By Stig Editor 
St. Louis is renowned for its rich culture and mouthwatering culinary landscape. Foodies from around the globe flock to the Gateway City to sample the delectable fare on offer. While choosing from various dining establishments can feel daunting, here is a guide to find out the best restaurants in St. Louis, perfect for any palate.
Salt + Smoke
No visit to St. Louis is complete without enjoying the city’s signature steak. Salt + Smoke has earned a spot as one of the best restaurants in St. Louis through their focus on quality ingredients and precise cooking methods. Their dry-aged cuts are sourced from small, local farms and prepared using old-world smoking and grilling techniques. Diners can customize their experience with a variety of delicious sides. From mac and cheese to creamed corn, each dish is made in-house with the finest, freshest ingredients. Both meat lovers and vegetarians will find satisfaction in their thoughtful menu. Salt + Smoke’s dedication to honing their craft has made them a popular choice for special occasions and everyday dining alike among patrons searching for the best St. Louis has to offer.
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Polite Society
For an upscale culinary adventure, explore Polite Society. This innovative and one of the best restaurants in St. Louis takes an artistic approach by highlighting Midwestern ingredients through creative preparations and thoughtful presentations. Upon arrival, diners are immersed in a welcoming space with modern furnishings and live greenery. Their six-course tasting menu changes regularly based on seasonal availability, ensuring each experience feels novel. Dishes may include offerings like smoked lake trout with charred onion and wild rice or lamb sirloin with sunchokes and salsa macha. Paired craft cocktails and an extensive wine list further enhance the multi-sensory journey. Polite Society transports guests to a world where artistry meets crave-worthy flavors. Their commitment to showcasing regional culture and techniques has earned them numerous accolades as one of the best restaurants in St. Louisfor premier fine dining destinations.
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Pi Pizzeria
When craving pizza, locals frequently turn to Pi Pizzeria. Here, passionate pizza artists deliver creative Neapolitan-style pies with a St. Louis twist. Their wood-fired ovens blaze at over 900 degrees Fahrenheit to produce light, airy, and blistered crusts. Toppings utilize ingredients sourced from local purveyors, resulting in fresh, seasonal flavor combinations. Guest favorites include the St. Louis style provel cheese pie and the fig and prosciutto. In addition to their à la minute pizzas, Pi offers appetizers, salads, and sandwiches for diners wishing to linger. Both the lively atmosphere and passionate staff cultivate a lively experience for any meal of the day. With widespread acclaim for their skills in the kitchen, Pi secures its place as among the the best restaurants in St. Louis.
Cecelia
Cecelia invites diners to craft memorable meals by sharing creative small plates. Set in The Grove neighborhood, the space strikes the perfect balance of casual and refined. Upon arrival, patrons are transported to a scenic outdoor courtyard with string lights, festive plants, and vibrant murals. Inside, an open kitchen concept allows guests to observe the culinary artistry firsthand. Dishes run the gamut from smoked eggplant caviar to ricotta gnudi, with global influences and local ingredients at the forefront. Options accommodate diverse diets, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and more. Pairings from their thoughtful beverage menu complement each bite. Cecelia exemplifies innovative cuisine in a lively, welcoming setting perfect for socializing or winding down after a day exploring the best restaurants in St. Louis.
Sullivan’s Station Roadhouse
When in the mood for an extraordinarily decadent burger, Sullivan’s Station Roadhouse satisfies unlike any other. Here, generously proportioned patties shine as the star on brioche buns alongside melting cheese and signature sauces. Choices range from classic preparations to inventive regional creations, including St. Louis-style provel cheeseburgers. Accompanied by crispy fries and heirloom salad blends, each meal feels indulgent yet balanced. Beyond burgers, their menu explores rustic American fare with flair through dishes such as chicken fried quail and macaroni gratin. Craft drinks emphasize regional selections, including wine, beer, and spirits. Sullivan’s Station crafts memorable meal experiences with care, establishing itself as the the best restaurants in St. Louis among locals for the ultimate Best Burger.
Kyo
Blending Asian flavors with Midwest ingredients, Kyo as one of the the best restaurants in St. Louis offers unique takes on traditional cuisine. The stylish atmosphere channels an urban oasis with warm woods, soft lighting, and lush greenery. Dishes are artfully arranged to evoke the senses at first glance. Signature offerings include wagyu beef with shiitake, miso glaze, and sesame, along with seared salmon presented with seasonal veggies and nuoc cham vinaigrette. Dim sum options like shrimp shumai and pork dumplings provide shareable starters. Creative cocktails incorporate unexpected yet complementary flavors. With devotion to quality sourcing and technique, Kyo adds novel global layers to the local culinary landscape. Both adventurous foodies and casual diners find satisfaction in exploring this acclaimed Asian-fusion eatery.
Twisted Tree
An anchor of Tower Grove South for over a decade, Twisted Tree exudes Southern charm with a hometown heart. Entering feels like stepping into a sun-drenched greenhouse dining room or shady back porch. Farm-to-table dishes spotlight seasonal St. Louis ingredients prepared with a coastal flair. Signature offerings include shrimp and grits with tasso ham or catfish atop cheddar stone-ground grits enhanced with local veggies. Craft cocktails pull influence from the gulf while showcasing local spirits. Friendly servers foster a relaxed yet refined atmosphere through attentive, knowledgeable service. With an impressive wine cellar, Twisted Tree caters flawlessly to any dining party size or celebration. Their devotion to community and flavors define the epitome of Twisted Tree’s welcoming Southern hospitality.
Parigi
Surrounding the arch for over 100 years, Parigi remains a local staple. This Downtown staple excels at crafting shareable eats perfect for grazing. Stopping in feels like stepping into vintage Paris. Crusty baguettes entice alongside Charcuterie, cheese, and imported goods. Salads showcase perfectly ripe seasonal ingredients while flatbreads emerge piping from the stone hearth. Alongside classic cocktails and wines, novel creations highlight local spirits and varietals. Outdoor seating wraps the bustling sidewalks during warmer months. Generous portions and reasonable prices cater to all cravings without emptying pockets. Whether dining solo or with a crowd, Parigi transports guests to continental flair amid the heart of St. Louis. Their commitment to the community endures them as a cherished landmark.
Five Bistro and Wine Bar
In Clayton’s walkable district, Five Bistro seamlessly blends polish with heartfelt hospitality. Intimate hardwood booths and candlelit tables set a casually refined tone. The globally-influenced menu highlights the chef’s artistry through dishes like seared diver scallops over whipped potatoes or duck breast paired with fig chutney. Small plates pair inventively with over 100 wines by the bottle or glass. Beyond savory specialties, bakery countertreats tempt indulgence. Knowledgeable servers enhance each experience with suggestions tailored to personal tastes. Five Bistro cultivates an unpretentious ambiance where patrons feel welcomed yet transported. Their passion for culinary artistry and service has cemented this Clayton staple as among the top contenders for the best fine dining in St. Louis.