Neighborhood restaurant recs in Maplewood, Brentwood & Richmond Heights

Acero

Italian. Cucina povera is glorious at this simple-yet-trendsetting place, where lighter pasta portions and affordable wine quartinos contribute to satisfying, memorable dinners. The four-course prix fixe is invariably worthwhile. Dinner Mon–Sat. 7266 Manchester, 314-644-1790, fialafood.com/acero. $$

Basso

Italian. The draw here, at one of the hippest bistro-type eateries in town, is small-portion Italian fare: roasted Brussels sprouts, seared pork belly, creamy burrata. Pizzas are topped with unexpected ingredients like duck egg and shrimp sausage. And happy hour doesn’t cease till 7 p.m. Dinner daily, lunch sun, changes seasonally. 7036 Clayton, 314-932-7820, basso-stl.com. $$

The Blue Duck

American. From the owners of the renowned Washington, Missouri, restaurant by the same name, expect next-level comfort food, right down to the house-made breads, including rye steam buns filled with pastrami and green chili cheese brioche that surrounds fried smoked chicken breaded with Red Hot Riplets. There’s a “Duckling” menu for kids, too. Lunch and dinner daily. 2661 Sutton, 314-769-9940, blueduckstl.com. $$

Blue Sky Tower Grill

American. There are burgers, wraps, pizzas, nachos, and daily specials. But the real draw at this quirky, bright eatery: more than 60 martinis. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 1034 S. Brentwood, 314-726-2583, blueskystl.com. $$

Bonefish Grill

Seafood. It’s like a very nice, very big, very classy bar that also serves great food. Should you want a quiet tête-à-tête, hang in the bar, which has full meal service. Fish and steaks get a wood-grilled treatment that highlights flavor and enhances texture. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch Sun. 8780 Eager, 314-918-1649, bonefishgrill.com. $$$

Boogaloo

Caribbean. The tapas menu boasts several dishes that you’re not likely to find anywhere else in

St. Louis, such as Brazil nut–encrusted manchego cheese and conch fritters. The sandwich menu features one of the best Cuban sandwiches in town, the Cubaniche, along with a vegetarian version. The Cuban Paella brings the flavors of Cuba—shrimp, mussels, clams, market fish, andouille sausage, saffron, coconut milk, Valencia rice—to the heart of Maplewood. Try to finagle a seat at the bar (they’re swings!) or a seat on the hidden patio out back. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 7344 Manchester, 314-645-4803, boogalooswings.com. $$

Boundary

American. The flagship restaurant at The Cheshire (formerly The Restaurant) rebranded, adding a raw bar and inventive menu, including the Toast app. The open kitchen and chef’s table remain for those who like to admire the back of the house. Lunch Mon–Fri, dinner daily, brunch Sat & Sun. 7036 Clayton, 314-932-7818, boundary-stl.com. $$$

Carl’s Drive In

American. Waiting for one of only a handful of seats in this closet-sized place is a St. Louis tradition. Crispy spatula-thin burgers sizzle, and golden onion rings crackle in hot oil. The aroma conjures pure, delicious nostalgia. Don’t even think about not ordering the root beer float. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sat. 9033 Manchester, 314-961-9652. $

The Crow’s Nest

American. Iconic rock and pop concert posters line the walls, menus are presented in album covers, and old movies are projected onto one wall. Must-try house specialties include the pork poutine and deep-fried deviled eggs. A Metal Brunch on Sundays brings typical breakfast fare with a soundtrack of classic metal bands. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch Sat & Sun. 7336 Manchester, 314-781-0989, eatcrowstl.com. $

Fozzie’s Sandwich Emporium

American. The sandwiches, burgers, salads, and gyros here are big, fresh, and creative. A house original, the Big Bend Mafia consists of Italian beek, salsiccia, giardiniera, and Provolone on a garlic hoagie. The Cardiac Burger—not for the faint of heart—is a quarter-pound burger dressed with bacon, a hot dog, chili, slaw, tomato, and American cheese. This location features and outdoor vegetable garden. Dinner and early dinner daily. 1170 S. Big Bend, 314-923-5414, foodatfozzies.com. $$

Fox & Hounds Tavern

American. Cozy, retro-romantic, and chockfull of nooks, the Fox & Hounds is where you’ll stop for a cocktail and end up staying for more, such as the Liverpool wings, grilled salmon, or chocolate gooey butter cake. The fireplace is a perfect place to gather and reminisce. Dinner and

early dinner daily. 6300 Clayton, 314-647-7300, cheshirestl.com. $$

Frank Papa’s Ristorante

Italian. Linen tablecloths, sparkling tableware, and a splendid wall of wine are hints: This is classic—surprisingly affordable—Italian dining. It’s posh. Chocolate ravioli is the best dessert; before getting there, you’ll work your way through superior veal dishes, some grand pastas and risotto, and delightful primi offerings like mussels diavolo. Dinner Mon–Sat. 2241 S. Brentwood, 314-961-3344, frankpapas.com. $$$

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

American. This popular chicken house from Memphis offers spicing that varies a little from day to day, as well as country-style sides. The medium-spicy chicken (and less-spicy chicken fingers) has legions of devotees. Full table service in a casual setting. Lunch and dinner daily. 7434 Manchester, 314-899-9899, gusfriedchicken.com. $$

Joy Luck Buffet

Chinese. The buffet’s variety runs the gamut from Americanized items to authentically exotic dishes. Seafood selections are particularly enticing. For those with a taste for spicy Sichuan, Joy Luck offers one of the best hot pots in town. Lunch and dinner daily. 8030 Manchester, 314-645-9982. $$

Mai Lee

Vietnamese. Mai Lee is St. Louis’ go-to for beefy, herby pho. The menu’s big, and so is the space, which is always crowded. If you’re adventurous, ask the staff for suggestions, or try the canh chua ca, an addictive fish stew. Make this a Sunday-night dinner stop. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sun. 8396 Musick Memorial, 314-645-2835, maileestl.com. $$

Mauhaus Cat Café & Lounge

American. Yes, there are felines. But the metro region’s first cat café also offers hummus, multi-flavored samosas, arepas, quiche, cicchetti, and baked goods, as well as coffees and teas. Lunch and dinner Thu–Sun. 3101 Sutton, 314-384-3287, mauhauscafe.com. $

Maya Café

Pan-Latin. Reopened in February 2015, this popular Maplewood haunt was closed for so long, we’d almost forgotten about the hand-shaken margaritas and pollo en pepián dulce, best enjoyed on the “shipwreck” patio out back. Lunch Tue–Sat, dinner daily. 2726 Sutton, 314-781-4774, mayacafestl.com. $$

Michael’s Bar and Grill

Bar & Grill. Traditional Greek flavors can be found in this neighborhood sports-bar setting. The 10-ounce Michael Burger is a sight to behold, especially when topped with a ball of soft cheddar. Lunch and dinner daily. 7101 Manchester, 314-644-2240. $$

Mike Duffy’s Pub and Grill

Bar & Grill. It’s like your Uncle Mike’s basement rathskeller—only with a more attractive clientele. Duffy’s is a classic neighborhood St. Louis sports bar, with sandwiches, wings, pizza, and TVs everywhere. Myriad burger varieties are available on the “Burger Heaven” menu. Lunch and dinner Mon–Sat. 6662 Clayton, 314-644-3700, mikeduffys.com. $

The Muddled Pig Gastropub

Bar & Grill. As the name implies, expect a pork-centric menu with upscale takes on classic dishes, such as poutine topped with a poached egg. The vibe is a satisfying combo of elevated eatery and neighborhood joint, which means a tight craft beer selection. Lunch Tue–Sun, dinner Tue–Sat. 2733 Sutton, 314-781-4607, themuddledpig.com. $$

Nadoz Bakery + Café

Café. Did you think life couldn’t get any better than sprinkle-topped donuts? Try the Nutella-slathered crêpes. Or if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider the salmon-bagel platter or a salad. Breakfast and lunch daily. 12 The Boulevard, 314-726-3100, nadozcafe.com. $

The Post Sports Bar and Grill

Bar & Grill. A haven for sports fans, The Post has an extensive appetizer menu. “Post-Its” come in three varieties: garlic cheese bread bites, bacon chicken ranch, and pepperoni pizza. The rest of the hefty menu includes pub-friendly salads, soups, pizza, sandwiches, and wraps. Lunch and dinner daily. 7372 Manchester, 314-645-1109, thepostsportsbar.com. $

Reeds American table

American. Led by former Taste chef Matt Daughaday and the city’s most credentialed sommelier, Andrey Ivanov, a crackerjack team of culinarians serves amped-up “neighborhood restaurant” fare with a beverage program to match. The main dining room is upstairs, but we prefer the

action on the ground floor. Dinner Wed–Mon, brunch Sat & Sun. 7322 Manchester, 314-899-9821, reedsamericantable.com. $$

Revel Kitchen

American. St. Louis Cardinals nutritionist Simon Lusky hit the proverbial home run when he created a 100 percent gluten-free menu that’s both delicious and inexpensive. Choose from juices, smoothies, salads, bowls, handhelds, and healthy takeout meal plan options. Breakfast, lunch, and early dinner daily. 8388 Musick Memorial, 314-647-2222, eatrevelkitchen.com. $

Riverbend Restaurant

Cajun/Creole. Spicy, smoky Cajun-Creole flavors are authentically rendered in a place that has the feel of a relaxed neighborhood eatery. The specials, such as our town’s best turtle soup, are always worthwhile, and regular fare such as gumbo, po’ boys, and jambalaya is delectably perfect. Lunch and dinner Tue–Sun. 1059 S. Big Bend, 314-664-8443, riverbendbar.com. $$

Robata

Japanese. Ramen’s a big draw. The tonkotsu broth is milky-rich, and a miso-flavored version is equally notable. Robata also offers such Japanese specialties as grilled yellowtail jaw and salmon and rice. Dinner Mon–Sat. 7260 Manchester, 314-899-9595, robatamaplewood.com. $$

Schlafly Bottleworks

Bar & Grill. Schlafly offers plenty of beers on tap and hearty pub food created from local provisions. An outdoor farmers’ market runs Wednesdays from April through October, and there’s an indoor market from November through March. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch sat & sun. 7260 Southwest, 314-241-2337, schlafly.com. $$

Twin Oak Wood-Fired Pizza and BBQ

Pizza/Barbecue. Wood-fired pizza and barbecue? If this place had local beers and good cocktails, it’d be the perfect restaurant. Oh, wait—it does. Don’t overlook the salads; ingredients are fresh. Two musts: the wood-fired wings and the deep-dish chocolate chip cookie dessert. Lunch Tue–Sun, dinner nightly. 1201 Strassner, 314-644-2772, twinoakwoodfired.com. $$

Water Street

American. You’re gonna pass on a place with a Corpse Reviver #2 cocktail? We didn’t think so. Light meals such as grilled polenta and chicken pot pie go great with a long selection of mixed drinks and wine. The feel here is sleek, swank, and stylish. Dinner Mon–Sat. 7268 Manchester, 314-646-8355, waterstreetstl.com. $$

Weber Grill Restaurant

American. Steaks, seafood, pizzas, and veggies are cooked on stainless-steel Weber grills. Reserve booth 335 for a great view of the grills, or relax by the fire pit on the all-season patio. You can also take a class at the on-site Grill Academy, where smoking (of a sort) is allowed in school. Lunch and dinner daily, brunch Sun. Saint Louis Galleria, 314-930-3838, webergrillrestaurant.com. $$$

Yen Ching

Chinese. A tribute to grand Americanized Chinese food, Yen Ching beautifully strikes every note: sizzling rice soup, pot stickers, Szechuan beef… It’s family-friendly, yet bigger and more formal than many Chinese restaurants. Lunch Mon–Fri, dinner daily. 1012 S. Brentwood, 314-721-7507. $$