Are you planning a trip to St. Louis and eager to explore its vibrant culinary scene? Then, you’re in for a treat! This St. Louis food guide is your key to unlocking the city’s best flavors. Prepare to discover iconic local specialties, understand dining etiquette, explore unique ingredients, and uncover fascinating facts about the Gateway City. From toasted ravioli and gooey butter cake to St. Louis-style pizza and frozen custard, get ready for a delicious adventure. Let’s dive into the heart of St. Louis cuisine!
A Taste of St. Louis: Local Specialties You Can’t Miss
St. Louis boasts a rich culinary heritage, influenced by its diverse communities and historical roots. Here are some essential St. Louis dishes you absolutely must try:
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Toasted Ravioli (T-Ravs): A St. Louis original!
- Description: These aren’t your ordinary ravioli. Toasted Ravioli are square ravioli, breaded, deep-fried, and served with marinara sauce for dipping. The crispy, golden-brown pasta pockets are typically filled with meat (usually beef) or cheese, offering a savory and satisfying bite. The outside has a delicious crunch while the inside remains soft and flavorful.
- Where to Find It: Seek out classic Italian restaurants or family-friendly eateries. The “The Hill” neighborhood is the heart of St. Louis’s Italian-American community and a great place to start your T-Rav hunt.
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Gooey Butter Cake: The sweet icon of St. Louis.
- Description: This dense, buttery cake is known for its distinctive, slightly gooey and incredibly sweet, and subtly tangy topping. The base is often a yellow cake or a similar recipe. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s both rich and comforting.
- Origin/History: Legend has it that gooey butter cake was born by accident in the 1930s when a baker made a mistake with a cake recipe. Thankfully, the mistake was a delicious one, and the locals loved it.
- Where to Find It: Bakeries and cafes all over the city. It’s also readily available in many grocery stores and restaurants.
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St. Louis-Style Pizza: The pizza that’s unique to the Gateway City.
- Description: This pizza features a thin, almost cracker-like crust and is topped with Provel cheese (a processed cheese blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone) and an often unsweetened tomato sauce. The pizza is typically cut into small, square pieces, often called “party cut.”
- Where to Find It: Look for local pizza parlors and pizzerias throughout the city that specialize in St. Louis-style pizza.
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Ted Drewes Frozen Custard: A St. Louis tradition.
- Description: Thick, rich, and creamy frozen custard with a wide variety of mix-in options, including fruits, nuts, and candies. The “concrete” is the most famous order, which is so thick that it can be served upside down!
- Where to Find It: Ted Drewes has two iconic locations that often have long lines, especially during warm weather. This St. Louis staple is a must-try!
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St. Louis Ribs: Slow-smoked to perfection.
- Description: Tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs are slow-smoked for hours and are served with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce.
- Where to Find It: Barbecue restaurants throughout the city, particularly those specializing in slow-cooked meats.
Navigating the St. Louis Dining Scene: Etiquette and Local Customs
Understanding St. Louis dining etiquette can enhance your culinary experience. Here are some key tips:
- Tipping: Standard tipping practice is 15-20% for good service. It’s customary to tip on the pre-tax amount.
- Greeting: “How ya doin’?” is a common and friendly St. Louis greeting. Feel free to use it! Friendly service is a hallmark of the area.
- Table Manners: Generally, standard American table manners apply. Keep your napkin in your lap, avoid talking with your mouth full, and use your utensils properly.
- Pace of Dining: Dining can be leisurely, but not overly slow. Allow yourself time to savor the experience.
- Dress Code: Dress code is casual. Unless you’re at a very high-end restaurant, smart casual attire will fit the bill.
Essential Ingredients in St. Louis Cuisine
Several local ingredients contribute to the distinct flavors of St. Louis cuisine:
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Provel Cheese (Processed Cheese Blend): A unique blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses that melts beautifully, offering a distinctive flavor. Provel is a key component of St. Louis-style pizza and other local dishes.
- Description: This cheese has a distinctive, slightly smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate exactly.
- If you can’t find it… You can try combining equal parts mozzarella, provolone, and a small amount of sharp cheddar for a similar, though not identical, effect.
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Local Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, and other seasonal fruits.
- Description: Berries are grown throughout the St. Louis area. You’ll find them in pies, jams, jellies, desserts, and ice cream.
- If you can’t find it… Substitute frozen berries or source imported options from your local grocery store.
5 Fun Facts About St. Louis Food and Culture
Here are some fascinating facts to enrich your St. Louis experience:
- The Gateway Arch, a symbol of St. Louis, is the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere.
- St. Louis was the host city for the 1904 World’s Fair, which introduced many inventions and foods to the world, including the ice cream cone.
- The city is home to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, a must-see destination for tours and samples.
- St. Louis is known as the “City of Parks” due to its extensive park system, including Forest Park, which is larger than Central Park in New York City.
- The St. Louis Cardinals baseball team has won 11 World Series championships and is a source of great pride for the city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dining in St. Louis
Are reservations required at most restaurants?
It depends. For popular restaurants, especially on weekends, reservations are highly recommended. For casual dining, reservations are usually not necessary, so you may choose to walk in.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?
Yes, St. Louis’s tap water is safe to drink and of good quality.
What is the best way to find authentic local food markets?
Check out the Soulard Farmers Market, the oldest operating farmers’ market west of the Mississippi River.
Are there any food-related festivals I should know about?
Yes! The St. Louis Ribfest, the St. Louis Pizza Week, and the Taste of St. Louis are great events to consider, depending on your time of visit.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, shops, and attractions throughout St. Louis.
Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of St. Louis
St. Louis offers a culinary journey that’s as diverse as its history. From the satisfying crunch of toasted ravioli to the sweet embrace of gooey butter cake and the savory delight of St. Louis-style pizza, there is something for everyone. We hope this St. Louis food guide helps you create lasting memories and discover the best culinary delights the city has to offer. So, get out there, explore, and savor every delicious moment!