Just One Midwestern City Makes Best Food Cities in U.S. List
St. Louis: A Midwest Culinary Powerhouse
When people think of the best food cities in America, their minds often go to places like New York, Chicago, or San Francisco.
But for those in the know, St. Louis has long been a hidden gem of the Midwest’s food scene.
With its diverse culinary influences, rich history, and a thriving community of chefs and restaurateurs, St. Louis is a must-visit destination for food lovers.
It’s the only midwestern city on a new list of Best Food Cities in America.
A Fusion of Flavors and Cultures
One of the things that sets St. Louis apart is its unique mix of culinary traditions. As a city with deep immigrant roots—ranging from Italian and German to Bosnian and Vietnamese—St. Louis offers a dining experience that reflects a melting pot of cultures.
- The Hill: This historic Italian neighborhood is the place to go for authentic Italian cuisine, where legendary spots like Charlie Gitto’s and Zia’s serve up classic pasta dishes and toasted ravioli, a St. Louis specialty.
- Bosnian Cuisine: St. Louis has one of the largest Bosnian populations in the U.S., making it a fantastic place to try dishes like cevapi (grilled minced meat sausages) and burek (flaky meat or cheese pastries) at spots like Grbic and Balkan Treat Box.
- Asian Influences: From fresh pho in South Grand’s Vietnamese restaurants to creative sushi rolls in the Central West End, St. Louis delivers a wide array of Asian flavors.
Home of Iconic St. Louis Eats
Every great food city has its signature dishes, and St. Louis is no exception. If you visit, here are a few must-try foods that define the city’s culinary identity:
- Toasted Ravioli: A beloved local specialty, these crispy, meat-filled pockets are often served with marinara sauce for dipping.
- St. Louis-Style Pizza: A controversial but cherished dish, St. Louis-style pizza features a thin, cracker-like crust topped with Provel cheese, a gooey blend of provolone, Swiss, and cheddar. I grew up near St. Louis and my husband and I love STL pizza so much that we got engaged in a St. Louis pizza parlor.
- Gooey Butter Cake: Originally created by accident, this ultra-rich, buttery dessert has become a staple in St. Louis bakeries.
- Pork Steak: A barbecue favorite, pork steak is a thick, juicy cut often grilled and slathered in a tangy, sweet sauce.
A Barbecue Scene That Holds Its Own
While cities like Kansas City and Memphis may get more national barbecue recognition, St. Louis stands tall in the world of smoked meats. The city is known for its signature St. Louis-style ribs, which are trimmed to a perfect rectangular shape and slathered in a sweet and tangy sauce. Some of the best spots to get your barbecue fix include Pappy’s Smokehouse, Bogart’s Smokehouse, and Sugarfire Smokehouse, where you can enjoy expertly smoked meats and inventive sides.
A Thriving Modern Food Scene
While St. Louis takes pride in its classic dishes, the city is also making waves with its innovative and modern dining scene. Talented chefs are putting their own spin on traditional flavors and introducing exciting new concepts.
- James Beard-Recognized Talent: Restaurants like Vicia, owned by James Beard-nominated chefs, are redefining farm-to-table dining with creative vegetable-forward dishes.
- Craft Beer & Cocktails: With a booming craft beer industry, breweries like Urban Chestnut and 4 Hands Brewing Co. are keeping St. Louis at the forefront of the Midwest beer scene. The cocktail bars in the city, such as Planter’s House, serve up some of the best drinks in the region.
- Trendy Neighborhood Eats: Areas like The Grove, Cherokee Street, and The Central West End are packed with eclectic eateries, from trendy taco joints to cozy brunch spots.
Why St. Louis Deserves a Spot on Your Food Bucket List
St. Louis is more than just the Gateway to the West—it’s the gateway to some of the best food in the Midwest.