Whether you intentionally planned to stay out late or “a few drinks after work” turned into an all-night affair, there’s always that moment—around 10 or 11pm—where you find yourself hungry and out of luck. Of course diners like Eat Rite, Courtesy, and Tiffany’s are always options, and even the cozy Uncle Bill’s Pancake & Dinner House will do you in a pinch, but I wanted to try to stray away from the grease and the typical all-night atmosphere to a more…digestible fare.
Here are 10 places on that list:
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Sandrina’s – Serving until 2 a.m. (Mon–Sat)
One of the only 3 a.m. bars outside of the South Grand strip is Sandrina’s, which once acted as a “pharmacy” during prohibition and continues the tradition of serving up remedies and a full menu of St. Louis favorites (Gus’ Pretzels, toasted ravs, chicken tenders) as well as sandwiches, pizza, and pastas.
The Bridge Tap House & Wine Bar – Until 1 a.m. (Mon–Sat) & midnight on Sunday
Thanks to this prime location, it’s now possible to go out to eat after a game at the stadium, a show at the Peabody, a concert at the Firebird, or an opening on Washington. With a decidedly upscale selection of small plates and more, The Bridge tops off your night with a little class.
Mission Taco Joint (two locations) – Until 1 a.m. (Tue–Sat) & midnight on Sunday
Newish to the local scene, Mission Taco has undeniably raised taco standards in St. Louis, first by offering some unusual selections of ingredients (ever had nopales cactus or tofu on your taco?) and then by manufacturing their own masa for shells. On top of that, delicious cocktails, quality salsas, and a post-10 p.m. taco Happy Hour.
Dressel’s Pub – Until midnight with a limited menu (Fri-Sat)
An established go-to—full of personality, local celebrities, and fine whiskey—Dressel’s is one of the remaining landmark pubs in St. Louis, and is undoubtedly the best place to get a taste of evening rarebit.
Friendly’s – Until 1:30 a.m. 7 days a week
I’m always surprised at how inexpensively this neighborhood staple has priced its food and how it’s even cheaper during home-team games. The 10 p.m.-to-close drink Happy Hour encourages you to wash it down with an equally affordable beverage.
Cicero’s – Until 12:30 a.m. (Mon–Sat)
Concert venue, arcade, beer bar (50+ on draft alone) and late-night restaurant wrapped up into one. How can you go wrong?
Yaqui’s – Until 1:30 a.m. (7 days a week)
Included in Cherokee Street’s cuisine expansion, which now includes bars and breakfast destinations, is Yaqui’s—a laid-back wine bar that wood-fires its pies for an even more unique touch.
Llywelyn’s (All 6 metro locations) – Until midnight with a limited menu (Mon–Sat) & 11 p.m. on Sunday
With convenient locations placed strategically across the area, it’s easy to close out the night with their reverse Happy Hour (10 p.m. to midnight) and a plate of mussels or pub pickles.
Benton Park Café – 24 hours (Fri- Sat only)
The Benton Park neighborhood has become the place to be when it comes to restaurants, and this place’s extended hours on the weekends may be one of the reasons why. (FYI: It’s walking distance from the Venice Café.)
Peacock Loop Diner – 24 hours, 7 days a week
I wasn’t going to mention diners, but, as we recently noted, this newest addition to the Loop is a site to behold. And so is its eclectic menu (which includes—for $.50—a cracker with Easy Cheese and an olive on top).
