Favorite SLUdent Places to Eat

Approved and reviewed by Billikens!

MIDTOWN

0.8 miles from SLU | $$ Pappy’s Smokehouse, an iconic St Louis spot, serves Memphis-style BBQ. Pappy's is known for their nationally acclaimed dry-rubbed ribs. They are slow smoked to juicy perfection over apple and cherry wood for a lightly smoked flavor. Additionally, their menu includes items like pulled pork, smoky beef brisket and burnt ends.

0.8 miles from SLU | $$ Are you looking for the perfect place for everyone to eat what they are craving lunch? If so, the City Foundry STL has you covered. Just a two block walk from SLU, the Foundry features local restaurants serving all kinds of cuisine and desserts. The Foundry has the perfect high-end food court and plenty of activities for everyone in the family! The Food Hall at the Foundry always has tasty foods and a fun environment. The newly renovated industrial space is a must-see in St. Louis and the perfect spot for everyone to hang out! My favorite restaurants are 4 Hens Creole Kitchen and Intergalactic Burgers (their waffle fries are so yummy)! At the Foundry, your foodie dreams will absolutely come true!

0.8 miles from SLU | $$ If you're looking to step back in time to the Roaring '20s or snack on some scrumptious ice cream, the locally-owned Fountain on Locust is just the place for you! You'll feel like you’ve time hopped when you see the retro theme, hand-painted walls and custom chandeliers. The view and food is delicious. The world famous Pickle Soup is the perfect side to any meal, and the homemade chocolate fudge will have you coming back for seconds. Just two blocks from campus, it is one of the most delicious lunch and dinner spots in town! If you check it out, I highly recommend the pickle soup and the critically acclaimed grilled cheese!!

0.4 miles from SLU | $$ Are you looking for a cute and Insta-perfect spot for lunch? If so, I have the place for you! With its unique spin on Asian and Latin cuisine, Saucy Porka is a perfect, scrumptious place to dine! With delicious duck, pork and vegan options, you are sure to find the perfect fusion cuisine! Just a block from campus, it is the perfect location to walk or drive. If you do end up trying it out, I recommend the yummy monkey fries. These fries have received award-winning reviews and are my personal favorite at Saucy Porka!

1.3 miles from SLU | $$ Kain Tayo is a vibrant and authentic Filipino restaurant that brings the rich and diverse flavors of the Philippines to the heart of Missouri. The menu is a fusion of traditional Filipino dishes and modern twists, offering favorites like adobo, sinigang and lechon. Whether you're a Filipino food enthusiast or new to this exciting cuisine, come and savor the tastes of the Philippines right here in St. Louis.

THE HILL

2.6 miles from SLU | $ Known for their hot salami sandwiches, Gioia’s Deli is an iconic St. Louis restaurant that’s been around for over 100 years. Gioia’s signature hot salami sandwich comes from a recipe for salam de testa created by Gioia’s founder, Charlie Gioia, more than a century ago. At Gioia's, the mixture of cured pig’s head meat, beef and spicy seasonings—served warm—is known simply as "hot salami." In addition to the signature sandwich, Gioia’s offers a roster of other sandwiches, many of which started as specials or customer concoctions, such as the Spicy Daggett, Porknado and Hogfather.

3.6 miles from SLU | $$ Are you trying to find the perfect Italian restaurant with an adorable Little Italy feel? If so, Zia’s is the place for you. With delicious, complimentary bread before your meal and elite service, Zia’s is the perfect Italian restaurant for you. I also cannot forget their delicious house salad! The restaurant staff makes you feel right at home, and the dining experience is exquisite. If you are wanting oysters, alfredo or classic spaghetti, Zia’s has got you covered! Also, in true St. Louis fashion, Zia’s has some of my favorite toasted ravioli in the city!

3.3 miles from SLU | $$ If you are looking for a homey feel and traditional Italian food, Mama’s on the Hill is the perfect restaurant for you! With handmade, award-winning meatballs, Mama’s is sure to make you feel like you are in Italy. I also love how you can custom-build pizzas in a variety of sizes and with lots of toppings. There are kid-friendly and adult menus, the latter of which features wines that pair perfectly with their food choices. Whether you are looking for a night out with family or the perfect pizza for lunch, Mama’s on the Hill has many delicious options that are sure to have you coming back for more!

3 miles from SLU | $$ Favazza’s on the Hill is the perfect spot for an evening dinner or lunch with a friend. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you are sure to have the best seat in the house. The service is quick and friendly, and the food is affordable! You'll start your meal with delicious bread and be able to choose from many traditional Italian dishes. Favazza's also has the lovely St. Louis toasted ravioli, which are my favorite appetizer. The chicken parmesan is also a great choice. With options for children, picky eaters and people who like to try new unique dishes, Favazza's is the perfect restaurant for you!

DOWNTOWN

2.7 miles from SLU | $$ Are you craving fresh, homemade food with a touch of Italy? If so, Sauce on the Side is the perfect location to dine! You're sure to love its scrumptious sauces, delicious salad dressing and world-famous calzones. It's perfect for families of all sizes and ages! Everything you eat is made fresh, and don't worry — your sauce can always come on the side if you'd like!

3.3 miles from SLU | $$$ If you are looking for a sky-high dinner location with a beautiful view of the St. Louis Arch, 360 Rooftop bar is a great choice! While it is famous for their drink menu, 360 has delicious small plates, quick snacks and yummy open-flame pizzas. I love their fresh ingredient, open-flame Margarita pizza!! The atmosphere at 360 is great before any St. Louis Cardinals baseball game and around sunset. I highly recommend checking out this restaurant at least once during your visit to St. Louis!

3.2 miles from SLU | $$ If you are looking for classic BBQ and delicious country sides, look no further! Salt+Smoke is a St. Louis-owned and operated BBQ joint that features a fun cookout feel. If you are in the mood for pulled pork, some yummy mac and cheese, or just a fun night with the family, Salt+Smoke is the perfect dinner spot for you! Many SLU ambassadors love the mac and cheese and it is a fan favorite side! With multiple locations throughout the city, it is the perfect place to enjoy any meal of the day!

2.6 miles from SLU | $$ Sugarfire Smoke House is a renowned barbecue restaurant in downtown St. Louis. This beloved restaurant is celebrated for its slow-smoked meats, showcasing an impressive array of flavors and textures. With a commitment to using only the finest quality ingredients, Sugarfire crafts signature dishes like tender brisket, succulent pulled pork, and delectable ribs, all expertly seasoned and smoked to perfection. The diverse menu also includes inventive sides and creative sandwich creations, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. Sugarfire Smoke House offers a welcoming, down-home atmosphere that perfectly complements its delicious fare, making it a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts and food lovers alike in St. Louis.

SOUTH GRAND

2.9 miles from SLU | $ Whether you are looking for a sweet treat, a cup of coffee or a fresh sandwich, the Gelateria Coffee Company is the place for you! This restaurant is the perfect place to rest after a long day of excitement, with both indoor (upstairs and downstairs) and outdoor seating for your family! As its name says, it offers delicious coffees and gelato made in-house. If you decide to stop by, I highly recommend some of the homemade coffee brews and scrumptious cream cheese croissants for breakfast!

2.6 miles from SLU | $ The Vine Café is a family-owned restaurant founded in 2010 that specializes in the beautifully diverse flavors found in Mediterranean cuisine. Located on South Grand, The Vine is right at home in a neighborhood famous for cultural diversity. Offering incredible falafel, shawarma, kabobs and more, The Vine is a great spot to enjoy lunch or dinner.

2.6 miles from SLU | $$ Rooster is the perfect place for breakfast or lunch! By utilizing fresh farm-to-table ingredients, in-house cooking and St. Louis pride, Rooster is sure to be the ultimate dining location. With a beautiful open layout for seating and a fun environment, everyone is sure to walk out with full stomachs and a smile on their faces. My personal favorite is their delicious banana nut pancakes!! If you are ever looking for the perfect place to dine during your visit to St. Louis, stop by Rooster to start your day!

2.8 miles from SLU | $$ If you are craving some delicious Mexican cuisine, look no further! Padrinos Mexican Restaurant is a St. Louis' favorite! They serve authentic Mexican cuisine, tex-mex, and street tacos, each with their own unique chef’s twist! Padrinos is a beloved, up-and-coming restaurant and will have you excited to return. I am a huge fan of their street tacos (they are delicious and picture perfect)! If you are craving a taste of yummy Mexican food, definitely check them out for any meal of the day!

THE LOOP

4.4 miles from SLU | $$ Fitz’s Root Beer is not just about soda! Stop by Fitz’s for a sneak peek into how the delicious St. Louis sodas are made, and have some delicious food along the way. Fitz’s has options for every type of eater, including a special gluten-free menu! The quesadillas are my personal favorite, but their are also some delicious floats and shakes, so save room for dessert! Fitz’s is located in the Delmar Loop, which has many fun family things to do. And, you can take any of Fitz’ homemade sodas home with you!

4.4 miles from SLU | $$ Corner 17 is a delightful fusion dining experience that marries the best of Asian flavors with a contemporary twist. This restaurant, nestled in the heart of the city, offers a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for both casual outings and special occasions. With a diverse menu that boasts a tantalizing array of Chinese-inspired dishes, including noodle soups, dumplings and stir-fries, Corner 17 is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking bold and inventive flavors. Whether you're craving traditional comfort foods or innovative culinary creations, Corner 17 promises a memorable dining adventure in the heart of St. Louis.

4.1 miles from SLU | $$ Mission Taco Joint is definitely a St. Louis classic! Whether you are actually in the Loop or headed to a St. Louis Blues game, Mission Taco is a delicious dining experience! The West Coast-style street tacos and Midwestern charm are sure to have you staying for just one more taco. This restaurant is very kid-friendly and is a favorite spot among college students in the city! They have delicious guacamole, so don’t forget your chips. If you are looking for a fast, sit-down meal, Mission Taco Joint is the perfect place for you!

3.8 miles from SLU | $$ Blueberry Hill is a beloved restaurant known for its iconic, retro vibe and delicious American comfort food. This nostalgic spot has been a local institution since it opened its doors in 1972. With its retro decor — including vintage posters, neon signs and a charming jukebox — Blueberry Hill transports diners back in time to a bygone era. The menu offers an array of classic dishes, including burgers, sandwiches and comfort foods like chili and fried chicken. However, the restaurant is perhaps most famous for its extensive selection of over 40 types of hamburgers, each with its own unique twist and topping combination. Vegetarian options are also available for those with dietary preferences.

CENTRAL WEST END

2.1 miles from SLU | $$ Are you looking for scrumptious, Chicago-style deep dish pizza? If so, Pi Pizzeria is for you! Whether you are wanting family-style meals or a solo pizza, Pi Pizzeria has got you covered. It is said to have irrationally good pizza, and the environment is very fun and welcoming! While you are dining, don’t forget to order the delicious garlic knots or the delicious blazed wings! If you or your family is in the mood for great pizza and company, then it adds up that Pi Pizzeria is the place for you!

1.5 miles from SLU | $$ Do you love ranch? If so, Twisted Ranch is a must try for you! With over 30 ranch options to choose from, you are sure to fall in love with this restaurant. Don’t worry; Twisted Ranch has more than just ranch to choose from. The menu features delicious fries, fried pickles and a classic grilled hamburger with a toasted bun! My personal favorite is the ranch flight. This is a fry platter, and you can choose up to ten ranch dips! This restaurant has the perfect environment for any group or family, with an adorable rustic feel! While Twisted Ranch is geared towards ranch lovers, there is definitely something for everyone!

FOX PARK

2.8 miles from SLU | $ The menu at Lona's Lil Eats is a testament to the vibrant diversity of global cuisine, with a focus on Asian-inspired dishes. Here, you'll find an array of flavorful offerings that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options. Signature dishes include the delectable rice paper rolls, bursting with colorful vegetables and your choice of protein, all served with an array of homemade dipping sauces that are both savory and addictive. Beyond its exceptional food and welcoming atmosphere, Lona's Lil Eats stands out for its commitment to sustainability and community involvement. The restaurant actively engages in eco-friendly practices, striving to minimize its environmental footprint. It's also deeply rooted in the local community, often hosting events and collaborating with nearby businesses and artists.

OLD NORTH ST. LOUIS

3 miles from SLU | $ Crown Candy Kitchen, located in the heart of St. Louis, is a beloved and iconic restaurant that has been serving up delicious comfort food and sweet treats since 1913. This charming establishment is not just a restaurant; it's a piece of local history. Known for its nostalgic ambiance, Crown Candy Kitchen takes guests on a trip back in time with its retro soda fountain decor and vintage charm. The menu at Crown Candy Kitchen boasts an array of classic American dishes, from hearty sandwiches and burgers to old-fashioned malted milkshakes and sundaes that are simply irresistible. One of their most famous offerings is their BLT sandwich, stacked high with crispy bacon, lettuce and tomato. Additionally, the restaurant is renowned for its hand-dipped chocolates and homemade candy, making it a must-visit spot for those with a sweet tooth.

THE GROVE

1.2 miles from SLU | $ The Gramophone is a fun, inexpensive sandwich pub that’s bound to have something for everyone. The menu consists of unique sandwiches, soups and sides, as well as over 20 types of beer. There is usually live music or a DJ, which adds to the ambiance.

0.9 miles from SLU | $ Seoul Taco is a vibrant and delicious fusion restaurant that seamlessly combines the flavors of Korean and Mexican cuisine. Located close to campus, this trendy spot offers a unique dining experience where traditional Korean BBQ meets the flavors of Mexican street food. Guests can enjoy dishes like Korean BBQ tacos, bulgogi burritos and kimchi quesadillas, all of which are prepared with high-quality ingredients and a creative twist.

SHAW

1.8 miles from SLU | $$ Known for its charming and welcoming atmosphere, Songbird combines cozy neighborhood vibes with an incredible brunch menu. The diverse menu features mouthwatering brunch classics like fluffy pancakes, gourmet omelets, and savory sandwiches. The restaurant's commitment to sourcing local and seasonal ingredients ensures that each dish is bursting with fresh flavors.

2.2 miles from SLU | $$ Baileys' Range is renowned for its gourmet burgers, handcrafted shakes and diverse menu that caters to all tastes. What sets Baileys' Range apart is its commitment to using locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients. The rustic ambiance adds to the overall appeal, making it an ideal spot for casual lunches or family dinners.