Best Local Dishes To Try In St. Louis

St. Louis, a vibrant city nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, is not only known for its iconic Gateway Arch but also for its rich culinary scene. The local dishes reflect the city's diverse culture and history, offering a delightful experience for food enthusiasts. If you're planning a visit, here’s a guide to the best local dishes you absolutely must try.

1. St. Louis-Style BBQ Ribs

When it comes to barbecue, St. Louis has a reputation that stands tall. The city is famous for its unique style of ribs, which are cut from the pork spare ribs. The ribs are typically cooked low and slow, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. They are often served with a tangy tomato-based sauce that has a hint of sweetness.

Where to Try:

• Pappy's Smokehouse: Renowned for its Memphis-style BBQ, but the St. Louis ribs are a must-try.
• Sugarfire Smoke House: Offers a variety of smoked meats, including their delicious ribs.

2. Toasted Ravioli

A St. Louis original, toasted ravioli is a delightful appetizer that you won’t want to miss. These pasta pockets are filled with a mixture of meat or cheese, breaded, and then deep-fried to golden perfection. They are typically served with marinara sauce for dipping.

Where to Try:

• Charlie Gitto's: Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, their toasted ravioli is a crowd favorite.
• The Hill: This neighborhood is famous for its Italian heritage and is home to several restaurants serving this local delicacy.

3. St. Louis-Style Pizza

St. Louis-style pizza is distinct for its thin, cracker-like crust and is typically topped with Provel cheese, a processed blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. The pizza is cut into squares rather than traditional slices, making it easy to share.

Where to Try:

• Imo's Pizza: The most famous pizzeria in St. Louis, known for its unique style and flavor.
• Pizza-A-Go-Go: Offers a variety of toppings and is a local favorite for late-night cravings.

4. Gooey Butter Cake

No visit to St. Louis is complete without indulging in gooey butter cake. This dessert is a rich, buttery cake topped with a gooey layer of cream cheese and powdered sugar. It’s sweet, decadent, and utterly irresistible.

Where to Try:

• Little Country Bakery: Known for its homemade gooey butter cakes in various flavors.
• Park Avenue Coffee: Offers a delicious version of this local treat, perfect with a cup of coffee.

5. St. Louis-Style Hot Dogs

St. Louis-style hot dogs are a unique twist on the classic. They are typically served on a poppy seed bun and topped with a variety of ingredients, including mustard, onions, and a special blend of chili.

Where to Try:

• The Dog House: A local favorite for hot dogs, offering a variety of toppings and styles.
• Pappy's Smokehouse: Not just BBQ, their hot dogs are also a hit among locals.

6. Fried Catfish

Fried catfish is a popular dish in St. Louis, often served with a side of coleslaw and hushpuppies. The catfish is typically breaded and deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender fish inside.

Where to Try:

• The Crossing: Known for its Southern-inspired menu, their fried catfish is a must-try.
• Nadoz Cafe: Offers a delicious take on this classic dish, served with house-made sides.

7. St. Louis-Style Chili

St. Louis-style chili is characterized by its unique blend of spices and is often served over spaghetti. The chili is typically thicker than other styles and is topped with cheese and onions.

Where to Try:

• Chili Mac: A local favorite for chili lovers, offering a variety of styles and toppings.
• The Hill: This neighborhood is known for its Italian influence, and many restaurants serve their own version of St. Louis-style chili.

8. Pork Steaks

Pork steaks are a St. Louis staple, often grilled or smoked and served with a side of barbecue sauce. This dish is a favorite at backyard cookouts and local restaurants alike.

Where to Try:

• Smokey O's BBQ: Known for its smoked meats, their pork steaks are a hit among locals.
• Salt + Smoke: A modern take on BBQ, offering delicious pork steaks among other smoked meats.

9. Slinger

A slinger is a hearty breakfast dish that consists of a bed of hash browns topped with eggs, chili, and cheese. It’s a filling meal that’s perfect for starting your day.

Where to Try:

• Crown Candy Kitchen: Famous for its slingers, this diner is a local institution.
• The Breakfast Bar: Offers a delicious version of this classic breakfast dish.

10. St. Louis-Style Ice Cream

St. Louis is also known for its unique ice cream flavors, often featuring local ingredients. The city has a variety of ice cream shops that offer everything from traditional flavors to innovative creations.

Where to Try:

• Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: A St. Louis institution, known for its rich and creamy frozen custard.
• Clementine's Creamery: Offers a variety of unique flavors made with high-quality ingredients.

Best Time to Visit St. Louis

The ideal time to visit St. Louis is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the city hosts various festivals. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter brings cold temperatures and occasional snow.

Weather Information:

• Spring: Average temperatures range from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C).
• Summer: Average temperatures can reach up to 90°F (32°C) with high humidity.
• Fall: Temperatures range from 40°F to 70°F (4°C to 21°C).
• Winter: Average temperatures can drop to 20°F (-6°C) with occasional snowfall.

Conclusion

St. Louis is a city that offers a rich tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions. From the smoky goodness of BBQ ribs to the sweet indulgence of gooey butter cake, each dish tells a story of the city’s heritage. As you plan your trip, don’t forget to savor these local delights that make St. Louis a unique gastronomic destination.

For a comfortable stay, consider booking your accommodations through Hotels & Flights and arrange your transfers via Transfers. Enjoy your culinary adventure in St. Louis!