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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in University City

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27 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Crossing restaurant
1. The Crossing
4.9
Exceptional(2597)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Clayton
Booked 27 times today
Featuring local "farm to table" cuisine using a breadth of farmers in the Missouri and Illinois communities. When asked to define of The Crossing, Owner/Executive Chef Jim Fiala often says that he is a chef that buys locally whenever possible and cooks as any French and/or Italian chef would given the ingredients sourced. Joining Jim is Chef Thu Rein Oo who brings passion and years of experience to the kitchen. Our food is fresh, organic (whenever possible), seasonal and by design very simple. The Crossing stays true to classic techniques and the chefs love showing off their skills and passion for elegant food.
A photo of Café Napoli restaurant
2. Café Napoli
4.8
Exceptional(2283)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Clayton
Booked 42 times today
Café Napoli is a family owned restaurant, established in 1989 by Tony and Kathy Pietoso. Quickly becoming a success, they moved the small basement restaurant to a larger location at the corner of Forsyth and Bemiston in the heart of Clayton. In 2003, sons Ande and Kye expanded their family restaurant by adding Bar Napoli, a swank cocktail lounge. A few years later, Napoli Reserve was added onto Bar Napoli allowing for private event space and an additional bar and lounge for the weekends. After years of a flourishing business, Kathy and Tony decided to take their ventures West to Town and Country where they opened their second location, Napoli2, managed by Ande. Kye has taken the reigns from his father and is now the front man for the 8,000 square foot establishment in Clayton. Café Napoli and Bar Napoli have recently undergone a face lift inside and out. Inside the kitchen, Executive Chef from Napoli2 Jon Berger was recently added to the team, bringing fresh ideas and innovation to the regional Italian specialties.
A photo of Charlie Gitto's 'On the Hill' restaurant
3. Charlie Gitto's 'On the Hill'
4.8
Exceptional(7223)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • The Hill
Booked 71 times today
Charlie Gitto's On the Hill is a landmark for fine Italian dining in The Hill neighborhood of St. Louis.
A photo of Brasserie by Niche restaurant
4. Brasserie by Niche
4.8
Exceptional(4225)
Price: Moderate
• French • St. Louis
Booked 68 times today
Brasserie by Niche is a neighborhood gem in St. Louis. Reviewers rave about its 'great service', 'perfect cozy French restaurant' ambiance, and consistently 'delicious' food. It's described as 'charming', 'quaint', and 'like ducking into a restaurant in Paris'. It's the go-to spot for French cuisine in the area and a favorite for special occasions. The staff is 'friendly and welcoming' and the atmosphere is 'energetic'. It's also loved for its 'just right cocktail' and 'absolutely delightful meal every time'.
A photo of Diego's Cantina restaurant
5. Diego's Cantina
4.4
Awesome(480)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • University City
Diego's Cantina is a neighborhood gem, known for its elevated Mexican cuisine in a casual yet beautiful atmosphere. It's praised for its excellent service, delicious food, and festive atmosphere. It's described as trendy, cozy, and has a warm and welcoming vibe. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Reviews highlight the excellent food and service, and the ambiance, with one review even describing it as a 'casually posh environment' for date nights.
A photo of Acero restaurant
6. Acero
4.9
Exceptional(2800)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Maplewood
Booked 23 times today
Rustic Italian cuisine in the heart of Maplewood that features fresh ingredients from local farmers as well as an all Italian wine list.
A photo of Truffles - St. Louis restaurant
7. Truffles - St. Louis
4.8
Exceptional(1407)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Clayton
Booked 8 times today
"Truffles has always managed that elusive balance of refinement and relaxed casualness...” Sauce, 8/2011“This is a top-tier eatery. The kitchen is reinvigorated and inventive…” STL Magazine, 5/2011.Truffles strives to produce a menu that easily fuses rustic and contemporary American cooking. With simplicity and seasonality as our guide, house-made specialties such as pasta and salumi are prepared fresh every day and are complemented by choice selections of locally sourced and raised meats, seafood and inventive sides. The Truffles menu begins in the fields, rivers and farms of the Midwest and our award-winning wine list features wines from every corner of the earth. We bring the best flavors of the season direct to your plate.
A photo of Robust restaurant
8. Robust
4.4
Awesome(1279)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Webster Groves
Booked 4 times today
It is our desire to light a spark of adventure within you and encourage you to explore and rediscover a passion for life through truly experiencing what wine, food and hospitality are all about.When you experience wine, you experience life. Wine encompasses a world of history, food, travel, culture, and romance. Whether a novice wine drinker or expert, Robust wants to create an enjoyable and enriching experience that educates each guest to the next level. Sip wines, sample our tasting plates and shop our wines and gifts. Our menu of artisan cheeses, charcuterie and unique gourmet tasting plates are inspired by our wine selection.Wines are listed by Robust Factor™ - a friendly format to help you navigate through the vast world of wines. With more than 40 wines by the glass, wine flights, and a full bottle list, choose your favorites or our onsite sommeliers will be happy to accommodate you with a selection.
A photo of Dominics Trattoria restaurant
9. Dominics Trattoria
4.7
Exceptional(490)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Clayton
Booked 8 times today
Dominic"s Trattoria in Clayton is what a Trattoria is all about; Family owned and operated since March of 1997. Presenting authentic and regional dishes in a casual but elegant atmosphere. Some featured Italian dishes include Chicken Saltimbocca, Tenderloin Monte Carlo, Grilled Lamb Chops, Veal Milanese, Linguini with Fresh Clams and many other delectable creations. Dine in a cozy, relaxing atmosphere with gracious, personal service and a beautiful view of Shaw Park.Complementary Valet Parking available in the evenings.Please note: Due to limited seating in our bar, you must contact us to guarantee a table in that area.
A photo of Ivy Cafe restaurant
10. Ivy Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(118)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Clayton
Nestled in the heart of Clayton, Missouri, Ivy Cafe is a culinary oasis that tantalizes the senses with its fresh, locally sourced fare and inviting ambiance. The cafe's signature sourdough bread, baked daily, serves as the foundation for its delectable tartines, each a masterpiece of flavor and texture. From the vibrant Forsyth tartine, adorned with caramelized banana, cinnamon peanut butter, and homemade jam, to the savory caprese, featuring juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, Ivy Cafe's tartines are a symphony of culinary artistry. Beyond its tartines, Ivy Cafe offers a delectable array of seasonal salads, small plates, and house-crafted coffee and specialty cocktails. The cafe's commitment to sustainability and local sourcing is evident in every dish, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful ingredients grace your plate. Whether you're seeking a leisurely breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or an intimate dinner, Ivy Cafe provides an unforgettable dining experience. Step inside and be transported to a botanical haven, where emerald-green tiles, lush greenery, and rustic charm create a serene atmosphere. The cafe's warm and welcoming staff adds to the ambiance, ensuring your every need is met with a smile. Ivy Cafe is more than just a restaurant; it's

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Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in University City

Discover the hidden culinary delights of St. Louis in the charming neighborhoods of University City and Midtown, where "neighborhood gem" restaurants offer a unique and intimate dining experience. These local favorites stand out for their exceptional service, cozy atmospheres, and diverse menus that cater to a variety of tastes, including vegetarian and vegan options. Renowned for their commitment to quality and authenticity, these eateries provide a casually elegant environment perfect for everything from a casual meal to a special date night. Each restaurant in this area reflects the vibrant local culture and cuisine, promising an unforgettable dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. The dining scene in University City and Midtown is characterized by its eclectic mix of trendy and traditional establishments, making it a true gem for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the mood for innovative dishes or comforting classics, these neighborhood gems are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings with flair and finesse.

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