Must-Try St. Louis Food Dishes

St. Louis, known as the Gateway to the West, is not just famous for its iconic arch but also for its unique culinary scene. The city’s food culture is a blend of traditional Midwestern comfort food with a few unexpected twists, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip to St. Louis or just looking to explore its flavors, here are some of the best foods you absolutely need to try.

Toasted Ravioli

Toasted ravioli is perhaps the most iconic dish associated with St. Louis. This appetizer is a staple in many local restaurants, particularly in The Hill neighborhood, which is known for its Italian heritage. The dish consists of meat or cheese-filled ravioli that’s breaded and deep-fried to perfection, served with a side of marinara sauce. Legend has it that toasted ravioli was invented by accident when a chef dropped traditional ravioli into hot oil. Today, you can sample this crispy delight at places like Charlie Gitto’s or Anthonino’s Taverna​(

St. Louis-Style Pizza

St. Louis-style pizza is unlike any other pizza you’ve tried. It features a thin, cracker-like crust and is topped with Provel cheese, a processed blend of provolone, Swiss, and cheddar that melts into a gooey, creamy layer. This pizza is usually cut into squares rather than traditional slices. The use of Provel cheese gives the pizza a distinct flavor and texture, making it a love-it-or-hate-it experience for many. Imo’s Pizza is the go-to spot for this local specialty, with multiple locations across the city​(

Gooey Butter Cake

Another St. Louis original, gooey butter cake is a rich, sweet dessert that was reportedly created by accident in the 1930s when a local baker mixed up the proportions for a traditional cake. The result was a dense, chewy, and oh-so-sweet cake that has become a St. Louis staple. Traditionally served as a coffee cake, it’s perfect for those with a serious sweet tooth. You can find variations of this cake at bakeries like Russell’s Café and Gooey Louie​(

St. Louis-Style Ribs

When it comes to barbecue, St. Louis does it its own way. St. Louis-style ribs are pork ribs that are trimmed into a rectangular shape and cooked to perfection with a dry rub before being slathered in a tangy, tomato-based barbecue sauce. The result is a tender, flavorful rib that’s slightly different from the smoky, sauce-heavy ribs you might find in Kansas City. Pappy’s Smokehouse is renowned for serving some of the best ribs in the city, often with lines out the door, but it’s well worth the wait​(

Pork Steaks

Pork steaks are another St. Louis barbecue classic. Cut from the shoulder, these steaks are seasoned, grilled, and then doused in barbecue sauce. They’re known for their rich, juicy flavor and are a common feature at local barbecues and restaurants. Sugarfire Smoke House and Five Aces Bar-B-Que are top spots to try this dish​(

The Slinger

For those looking for a hearty breakfast or late-night meal, the slinger is the ultimate comfort food. This dish typically includes a hamburger patty or sausage, hash browns, eggs, and chili, all piled high on a plate and topped with cheese and onions. It’s a messy, indulgent meal that’s perfect for curing a hangover or satisfying a serious hunger pang. Chili Mac’s Diner is a popular spot to grab a slinger​.

Frozen Custard

St. Louis takes frozen custard seriously, with Ted Drewes leading the charge. This frozen treat is thicker and creamier than regular ice cream, and it’s often served as a “concrete,” which is so thick that it’s served upside down. Ted Drewes offers a variety of flavors and mix-ins, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists alike​(

Gerber Sandwich

The Gerber sandwich is a St. Louis original that’s often overlooked by visitors but beloved by locals. It’s an open-faced sandwich made with garlic bread, topped with ham, and smothered in Provel cheese, then toasted until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This savory sandwich is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the city’s unique takes on comfort food​(

Conclusion

St. Louis offers a diverse and delicious array of foods that reflect the city’s history and culinary creativity. From the crispy goodness of toasted ravioli to the indulgent sweetness of gooey butter cake, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re a fan of barbecue, pizza, or sweet treats, the flavors of St. Louis are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, the next time you find yourself in the Gateway City, be sure to embark on a culinary adventure and try these iconic dishes.