801 Fish
Only the second 801 Fish location in the country, this sister (and neighbor) to 801 Chophouse plans to fill the void that has heretofore existed for fresh quality seafood in St. Louis. The atmosphere is more casual than that of 801 Chophouse, but it’s equally dramatic. 801restaurantgroup.com.
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Porano Pasta
James Beard Award winner Gerard Craft’s first foray into fast-casual dining means Pastaria-quality fresh pasta in less time and for less money. A base, protein/veggie, sauce, and toppings are a steal at $7.95. poranopasta.com.
Gus’s Famous Fried Chicken
St. Louisans have eaten some superior fried chicken in the past several years, but many aficionados say there’s none better than the version served at Gus’s in Maplewood, the first local outpost of the Memphis-based chain. gusfriedchicken.com.
Doughocracy Pizza + Brews
The slick Chicago-based fast-casual pizza concept recently debuted in University City. The real news, though, is how fast the bubbly, crispy-crusted 12-inch pizza appears. doughocracy.com.
Zippy Burger
Simplicity reigns at this 18-seater, located just off the Delmar Loop. Because the menu consists of only griddled cheeseburgers, fries, and chili mac, the line moves quickly. zippyburgeronline.com.