Unearth The Voyage
Missouri’s dining scene spans smoky barbecue legends, beloved neighborhood institutions, and chef-driven destinations that turn a meal into an experience. From sauce-glazed ribs and iconic deli sandwiches to inventive tasting menus that surprise and delight, this list points you to the places locals swear by and travelers happily plan trips around.
Each spot has a signature worth chasing, often tucked just a turn off the highway. Come hungry, bring a little curiosity, and get ready to taste Missouri at its very best.
1. Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque – Kansas City
Arthur Bryant’s Barbeque is Kansas City royalty, the kind of place where sauce-stained history hangs in the air. You order at the counter, watch brisket and burnt ends get carved thick, then carry a heavy tray like a proud trophy.
The legendary tangy sauce and slices of white bread keep things wonderfully old school.
Expect smoke that clings to your shirt and friendly banter from folks who have perfected this ritual for decades. Ribs come peppery and mahogany, while fries soak up every drop.
Sit, unwrap the butcher paper, and let the bark, fat, and char do the talking.
It is not fancy, just essential, and that is the whole charm. You taste Kansas City’s barbecue story in every bite, equal parts grit and glory.
If you love authenticity, this is your first stop.
2. Gates Bar-B-Q – Kansas City
Walk into Gates Bar-B-Q and you are greeted with the booming call, Hi, may I help you, a Kansas City tradition. The vibe is fast, friendly, and proudly no-nonsense, with a pit turning out ribs, sliced beef, and sausage.
Grab extra sauce for that sweet heat and tang.
Brisket sandwiches come stacked and juicy, while burnt ends land with caramelized edges and smoky depth. Fries and beans round out a classic plate that hits every craving.
The red and black decor feels timeless, a backdrop to generations of barbecue runs.
You come for energy as much as flavor, a rush that feels uniquely local. It is a place where first-timers and regulars share the same grin.
When in Kansas City, a Gates stop makes your trip feel official.
3. Jack Stack Barbecue – Kansas City
Jack Stack Barbecue brings a polished, sit-down take to Kansas City smoke. Think white plates, attentive service, and a menu that goes beyond the basics without losing soul.
Burnt ends, crown prime beef ribs, and that cheesy corn bake are house heroes.
Hickory smoke runs deep, balanced with rubs that highlight rather than hide. Sides matter here, from pit beans to onion rings that crunch dramatically.
You can linger over a bottle of wine and still feel connected to barbecue roots.
It is ideal for celebrations or when you want comfort dressed up. The pit still sets the pace, but the room turns dinner into an occasion.
Order a sampler to explore, then plan your return visit before dessert lands.
4. Blue City Deli – St. Louis
Blue City Deli channels New Orleans flavor with St. Louis swagger. The line moves fast, jazz spills from the speakers, and sandwiches arrive generously packed.
Try the Voodoo chicken, roast beef debris, or a po’ boy that drips down your wrist.
Bread is crusty, fillings are seasoned, and the spread selection is dialed. Regulars know to snag a table early or take it to the park.
The vibe feels celebratory, like a neighborhood party centered around great bread.
Prices are friendly and quality is unwavering, so it is easy to become a repeat customer. You taste care in every layer, from pickles to peppers.
Bring napkins, bring friends, and let the good times roll right through lunch.
5. Gioia’s Deli – St. Louis
Gioia’s Deli is famous for hot salami, a St. Louis original sliced thick and served steaming. The Hill neighborhood gives it an old-world charm you feel the second you step inside.
Order on fresh Italian bread with Provel or sharp provolone.
The meat is peppery and juicy, landing somewhere between salami and sausage. Add giardiniera for brightness and a little kick.
Everything is efficient, from the cheerful counter crew to the steady drumbeat of to-go orders.
It is a perfect quick lunch that still tastes like a treat. Locals bring out-of-town guests here to show real flavor.
If you want a sandwich with a story, this one tells it loud and clear.
6. Salt + Smoke – St. Louis
Salt + Smoke marries Texas-style brisket with St. Louis comfort. Slices come tender with a peppery bark, while smoked turkey surprises with juiciness.
You will want the white cheddar cracker mac and those glossy baked beans.
House sauces lean balanced rather than sugary, letting smoke lead. The bar program shines with bourbon, local beer, and smart cocktails.
Servers guide you toward the right cuts and portions so nothing goes to waste.
It feels modern without losing that neighborhood hug. Grab a tray, share sides, then finish with banana pudding.
When barbecue cravings hit in St. Louis, this spot hits back with confidence.
7. Vicia – St. Louis
Vicia celebrates vegetables with a live-fire glow that turns humble produce into stars. Menus change with the seasons and farmers, so every visit feels fresh.
Expect char-kissed carrots, grains with texture, and plates that look like art.
There is meat and fish, too, but the plant-first mindset makes flavor pop. Service is warm and knowledgeable without being stiff.
Lunch brings creative grain bowls and tartines, while dinner leans tasting-menu elegant.
You feel cared for from the first bite of house bread. If you love peak-season cooking, this is your happy place.
Book ahead, bring curiosity, and let the hearth guide your night.
8. Sidney Street Cafe – St. Louis
Sidney Street Cafe blends fine-dining finesse with neighborhood warmth in a historic Benton Park building. The menu riffs on Midwestern ingredients with global curiosity.
Think delicate pastas, impeccably seared proteins, and sauces with layered depth.
Service is polished but friendly, guiding you through pairings and portions. Seasonal changes keep regulars excited while first-timers feel spoiled.
The room glows with candlelight that turns dinner into an occasion.
It is a go-to for anniversaries, celebrations, or just a night you want to savor. Expect thoughtful technique without pretension.
Leave room for dessert, because the finale often steals the show.
9. Sado – St. Louis
Sado brings a refined sushi and seafood experience to St. Louis with exacting technique. The fish list is deep, with pristine cuts handled gently over perfectly seasoned rice.
Omakase highlights balance, temperature, and texture in each bite.
Expect thoughtful sake pairings and a serene room that keeps focus on the food. Nigiri glides, sashimi gleams, and specialty plates add creative flair without clutter.
Staff guide you toward seasonal standouts and rare imports.
It is the kind of place where you slow down and notice details. If you value precision and restraint, this will speak to you.
Reserve early, then let the chef steer the evening.
10. Mainlander – St. Louis
Mainlander is a playful, modern spot known for bold flavors and colorful plates. The menu changes often, leaning into seasonal produce and imaginative technique.
Cocktails arrive in whimsical glassware that sets a celebratory tone.
Expect shareable dishes that zig from bright acid to rich umami. The room channels retro energy without feeling like a theme.
Staff are enthusiastic guides who make trying new things easy and fun.
You will leave buzzing about a sauce or texture you did not expect. It is perfect for date night or a spirited group dinner.
Come curious, and let the kitchen surprise you course after course.
11. Booches – Columbia
Booches is a Columbia institution where burgers come small, griddled, and served on wax paper. The pool hall setting adds to the charm, with locals trading stories over cold beer.
Simplicity rules, and that is exactly why it works.
Thin patties sear hard, cheese melts fast, and onions kiss the heat just right. Order a few, add chili if you like, and keep napkins handy.
Service is brisk, prices are friendly, and the vibe feels timeless.
It is the kind of place you remember from college days and revisit happily. Bring cash just in case, and settle in near a table.
One bite and you will understand why loyal fans never stray.
12. Lambert’s Cafe – Sikeston
Lambert’s Cafe is home of the throwed rolls, and yes, they really toss them. The dining room hums with energy as servers launch fluffy rolls across aisles.
Portions are huge, and pass-around sides keep plates overflowing.
Chicken fried steak, catfish, and ham steaks are crowd pleasers, all seasoned for comfort. Sorghum and apple butter make those rolls even better.
Kids light up, adults laugh, and strangers become tablemates fast.
It is roadside Americana done with heart and humor. Come hungry and ready to catch, literally.
By the time dessert offers, you will be full but tempted anyway.
13. Undercliff Grill & Bar – Tipton
Undercliff Grill & Bar feels like a hidden Missouri postcard, tucked against a limestone cliff. The setting alone is worth the drive, but the food completes the trip.
Burgers, onion rings, and country-fried favorites arrive hot and generous.
You get small-town hospitality with a side of scenery. Sit outside when weather cooperates and watch the light change on the rock face.
Inside, vintage signs and wood textures add cozy charm.
It is a weekend escape spot that rewards curiosity. Bring friends, share baskets, and linger a little longer than planned.
The road back feels better after a satisfying, simple meal.
14. Broadway Oyster Bar – St. Louis
Broadway Oyster Bar brings New Orleans spirit to downtown St. Louis with live music and Cajun plates. Chargrilled oysters steal the show, smoky and buttery with a squeeze of lemon.
The patio glows under string lights and practically dances on weekends.
Po’ boys, jambalaya, and crawfish etouffee keep the party rolling. Drinks lean fruity and fun, perfect for a warm night.
Staff manage the crowd with smiles and efficient pacing.
It is a destination for friends, birthdays, and anyone craving Gulf flavors. Come early or expect a wait, because the secret is out.
You will leave humming along to the band and planning your return.
