Best of 15 lunch restaurants in St. Louis
Discover the vibrant culinary scene of lunch restaurants in St. Louis, where diverse flavors and inviting atmospheres await. From cozy cafes to upscale eateries, lunch restaurants in St. Louis offer a delightful array of dishes that cater to every palate. Whether you're seeking comfort food or gourmet options, St. Louis has something to satisfy your midday cravings.
- 1. Eleven Eleven Mississippi
- 2. Sauce on the Side
- 3. Vicia
- 4. Russell's on Macklind
- 5. Bowood by Niche
- 6. Turn
- 7. Bogart's Smokehouse
- 8. Gourmet Soul Restaurant and Catering
- 9. The Fountain on Locust
- 10. Rooster
- 11. Little Fox
- 12. Crown Candy Kitchen
- 13. Pappy's Smokehouse
- 14. Sugarfire Smoke House
- 15. Salt + Smoke
1. Eleven Eleven Mississippi
A neighborhood gem with a creative menu and outstanding service.

The staff consistently exceeded expectations, showcasing promptness, attentiveness, knowledge, and a genuine warmth that fostered a positive dining experience. Their expertise in crafting unique cocktails was particularly noteworthy, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the evening.
Guests consistently remarked on the friendly and helpful nature of the staff. The bartenders were known for their welcoming demeanor and ability to recommend suitable drinks, while the servers, like Gary, provided courteous and efficient service, assisting patrons with their dinner choices.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
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2. Sauce on the Side
Irresistible calzones made fresh daily, a must-try!

The calzones are a standout feature, generously sized and offering excellent value for money. The Nutella banana dessert is also a popular choice among patrons.
Friendly and helpful staff greet guests, offering explanations of the menu options and providing recommendations. The calzones, in particular, receive rave reviews, with many proclaiming them the best they've ever had.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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3. Vicia
A farm-to-table experience celebrating the best of local ingredients.

The menu at Vicia offers a compelling exploration of flavors, with highlights including the filet américain, meat sandwiches, and salami. Sweet tooths will appreciate the tasty ice cream, fruitcake, and yogurt, while those seeking a beverage pairing can enjoy good wine, craft beer, or liqueur.
The execution of the dishes is impeccable, showcasing meticulous preparation and attention to detail. The overall experience rivals the best dining moments in Barcelona and San Sebastian, solidifying Vicia's place among the most memorable culinary destinations.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
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4. Russell's on Macklind
A cozy spot for delightful lunches and inviting ambiance.

The establishment offers a variety of lunch options, all of which are delicious. Salads and sandwiches are particularly noteworthy.
This café is a great choice for both breakfast and lunch. The coffee is superb, and the baked goods are highly recommended.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Downtown Spots
5. Bowood by Niche
Experience fresh, locally sourced flavors in a unique dining environment.

The restaurant provided a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience for a weekday lunch party of three. The service was friendly, and the menu featured a variety of appealing dishes, including a dry aged burger, roasted turkey sandwich, and eggs Benedict, all of which were well-prepared and flavorful.
The restaurant emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with many of the herbs used in the dishes grown on-site and most of the produce from surrounding farms. This "farm to table" approach adds a distinctive and appealing quality to the menu, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to fresh, seasonal flavors.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
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6. Turn
Experience brunch like never before with our innovative dishes!

Turn is a contemporary brunch destination that exudes a calming ambiance. The space features a lo-fi aesthetic, abundant natural light, and a relaxed atmosphere, creating an inviting setting for a leisurely meal. The menu offers a compelling selection of dishes, while the lattes are consistently excellent.
Turn's lo-fi atmosphere, natural light, and casual vibe combine to create a comfortable and modern space for brunch. The menu is intriguing, and the lattes are consistently well-made, adding to the overall positive experience.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
7. Bogart's Smokehouse
Experience the best barbecue in St. Louis with a unique smoky flavor!

The Deviled Egg potato salad is a popular choice, earning praise for its flavor. The menu consistently receives positive feedback, particularly for its ribs and smoked chicken wings, often described as exceptional.
Customers appreciate the quality of the food, with many highlighting the ribs and wings as standout dishes. The pricing is also seen as favorable, further enhancing the overall dining experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Gourmet Soul Restaurant and Catering
Experience the soulful flavors of St. Louis in every bite!

The restaurant offered a welcome change from the typical road-trip fare, providing a fresh and flavorful experience. Despite limited side options at the nearby barbeque joint, this gem delivered a healthy and satisfying meal, perfect for a lunch break from the City Museum.
The smothered pork chops were a revelation, bursting with flavor and perfectly seasoned. The restaurant provided a welcome respite from the usual travel cuisine, offering a truly memorable and delicious experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
9. The Fountain on Locust
A unique dining experience with a whimsical twist on classic comfort food.

The soup offerings are consistently popular, with the pickle soup standing out as a unique and well-received choice. The menu provides a variety of options to suit different tastes.
The sandwiches are praised for their creativity and consistency. Several users have specifically mentioned the salad sandwich as a standout option, highlighting its impressive flavor and quality.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Rooftop
- Dinner
10. Rooster
Experience delightful brunch options in a cozy downtown setting!

This downtown eatery boasts a prime location, consistently delicious food, and friendly, attentive service. The diverse menu features an array of mouthwatering crepes and sandwiches, and the cozy atmosphere creates a welcoming ambiance perfect for casual dining with friends or a quick solo bite.
The downtown location offers a spacious and inviting setting with a pleasant decor. The service is commendable, and the food is a standout, particularly the fruit crepe and the egg #4 crepe with its flavorful combination of cheese, potatoes, and salsa. The wait time is reasonable, and the prices are very attractive, making this establishment highly recommended for a satisfying downtown lunch.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
11. Little Fox
A cozy spot for a delightful lunch experience in St. Louis.

Little Fox provides a delightful dining experience, with friendly and attentive service contributing to a warm atmosphere. The staff's promptness and helpfulness further enhance the positive ambiance.
This standout restaurant excels in all aspects, featuring exceptional food, delicious drinks, and a pleasant atmosphere. The chef's experience in esteemed establishments is evident in the impressive dishes prepared.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Dinner
12. Crown Candy Kitchen
A St. Louis tradition serving delicious comfort food since 1913.

The turkey club sandwich is a delicious and satisfying choice, featuring a generous amount of flavorful ingredients. The accompanying crispy fries add a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect lunch option.
The grilled cheese sandwich and chili combination offers a comforting and nostalgic dining experience. The grilled cheese, with its melted cheese and buttery toast, is a classic comfort food, while the chili adds a warm and savory element, making it a fulfilling lunch.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
13. Pappy's Smokehouse
Experience authentic Memphis-style BBQ with a unique ordering system.

Pappy's Smokehouse delivers a top-notch BBQ experience, with perfectly smoked meats boasting a flavorful, sweet and tangy sauce. The tender, moist meat is complemented by an exceptional rub, while the sweet potato fries are a delightful accompaniment. The unique ordering system, where guests place their orders before being seated, ensures a swift and efficient service.
The quality of the barbecue at Pappy's Smokehouse shines through in every bite. The ribs are particularly impressive, showcasing a perfect balance of smoky flavor and tenderness. The sweet potato fries are a must-try, adding a touch of sweetness to the savory feast. The restaurant's efficient ordering process allows for a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Indian Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Waterfront
- Dinner
14. Sugarfire Smoke House
Savor the best barbecue in a vibrant setting!

This establishment offers an excellent lunch experience. The pulled pork sandwich is a standout, accompanied by delicious sides. The overall experience is highly recommended.
The brisket sandwich and ribs are exceptional, making this a great choice for a casual lunch. The lively atmosphere adds to the enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Corporate Events
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
15. Salt + Smoke
Savor the best BBQ in town with a cozy atmosphere.

This restaurant offers a delightful barbecue experience with delicious meats and a welcoming atmosphere. The brisket and ribs are particularly noteworthy, making it an excellent choice for a casual lunch outing with colleagues.
The friendly staff and tasty barbecue make this a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal. The brisket and ribs are standouts, perfect for a relaxed lunch with coworkers.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner