Every year from mid-June to mid-August, a series of musical performances is presented at America’s oldest and largest outdoor musical theater in Forest Park. The Muny season returns in 2026 beginning June 15.
The Muny’s generous preshow picnic policy allows guests to put a personal spin on ‘dinner and a show.’ Guests can find tables on the grounds and eat take-out or a picnic. Attendees can even bring the food and/or soft-sided coolers to their seats, with a few exceptions. While some guests prefer a casual picnic, others might want to dedicate an entire evening out and dine at a restaurant before heading to the show.
In that spirit, we compiled a list of themed pre-show dinner pairings for the 2026 lineup, from a more intentional sit-down option to a less formal takeout/casual meal.
And for a deeper dive, don’t miss our companion episode of the Arch Eats podcast.
Find the best food in St. Louis
Subscribe to the St. Louis Dining In and Dining Out newsletters to stay up-to-date on the local restaurant and culinary scene.
Hairspray, June 15–21
The romantic comedy takes place in the ’60s in Baltimore, Maryland, known for its seafood—specifically luxurious crab cakes.
At Matt McGuire’s Wright’s Tavern, the baked Maryland blue crab cakes are served atop a rémoulade sauce—though the steakhouse is often booked solid. To enjoy the dish without the waitlist, visit McGuire’s next-door Box Hill Grocer, where the sought-out Maryland crab cakes are available, in addition to a variety of grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and prepared main dishes and sides—ideal for a picnic. (While the food is fully cooked, be sure to plan accordingly if you prefer to reheat anything in advance.)
For a sit-down style dinner, we recommend Broadway Oyster Bar, where Marylanders-turned-St. Louis transplants endorse the trio of Maryland blue crab cakes, served over fried green tomatoes and topped with crawfish cardinale sauce and finished with grated parmesan cheese. Plus, one can try a wide array of seafood selections with an emphasis on Cajun and Creole cuisine.
Shrek The Musical, June 25–July 2
Although the fairytale cuisine is primarily fictional, there are some notable staples Shrek references that translate to real-word offerings, such as waffles, onions, and hearty portions of meat. Over time, the giant turkey leg associated with theme parks has become associated with the medieval meat of Shrek’s world because of its generous portion (and perhaps because of the way one ravenously consumes it like an ogre).
With that inspiration in mind, try the tender turkey legs at Mositos, which offers pickup or delivery, with 20 percent off first-time order. While the specialty turkey legs have gained popularity at Soulard Farmers Market, a second storefront opened downtown in January 2025.
For a meal that’s more authentic to the story’s English-countryside vibes, visit The Scottish Arms, the traditional Victorian-style pub serving classic Scottish dishes and European fare.
And to pay homage to Donkey’s famous line, “And in the morning, I’m making waffles,” indulge at Twisted Rolls Chimney Cake, which serves a range of toppings on its waffles.
South Pacific, July 6-12
The classic romance musical takes place on a lush island during World War II.
For island-inspired fare, Buzz’s Hawaiian Grill serves authentic Hawaiian dishes, such as Kalua pig, musubi, and poke. The eatery initially launched as a food truck in 2016, though the family is now focusing on its booming catering business and brick-and-mortar location, which opened in Tower Grove East in 2022.
Yellowbelly is another island-style restaurant and cocktail bar. The menu includes many coastal interpretations of seafood staples, such as a lobster roll, salmon skewers, spicy shrimp ceviche, and crab fritters. If seafood isn’t your speed, the CWE restaurant offers beef fat fries, available during happy hour from 5–6:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
Disney’s Newsies, July 16–22
Inspired by the true story, later adapted into a 1992 film, this story follows a group of New York City newsboys’ strike against rising distribution prices. It’s impossible to describe the Big Apple without mentioning the iconic New York-style pizza.
Available by the slice or full pies, La Pizza in University City serves NYC-style pizza that’s as close to east coast authenticity as expats can find. Their online reviews validate the claims, with customers giving high praise to the Brooklyn-inspired crust and straightforward menu. (Note: It frequently sells out, so call early.) While a pizza box does not fall under The Muny’s prohibited items list, it’s also not a soft-sided cooler, so be sure to pack your dinner accordingly.
If you prefer a dine-in option, consider Aubrey, the restaurant/cocktail lounge inspired by iconic New York dining rooms. At the entrance, a magazine wall displays vintage scenes of New York City, among other details mimicking an intimate New York City establishment. Patrons can choose from a minimal yet quality list of five entrées, including a burger, fish dish, pork chop, pasta, or steak.
Ain’t Too Proud, July 27–August 2
From humble beginnings in the streets of Detroit to international fame, this story follows the real-life journey of The Temptations and the backstory leading up to their success.
Detroit is known for its thick rectangular pizza with an airy dough and a crispy crust. Since beginning as an Instagram-ordering concept in 2020, Nick Williams’ Nicky Slices has gained popularity, opening a brick-and-mortar last year on The Hill. William offers rotating specials of its signature Detroit-style pizza, announced via Instagram, though Williams also sometimes offers “thinnies”—somewhere between a St. Louis-style thin crust and a Chicago tavern–style pizza. Minimal indoor seating exists, making it a suitable carryout option.
Detroit’s food scene is also known for its Middle Eastern cuisine. In The Grove, Sameem Afghan Restaurant focuses on Afghan cuisine, as well as Persian and Indian flavors. Nearby Sultan Mediterranean Restaurant specializes in both Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Both restaurants offer flavorful kabobs, meats, and an array of rish dishes.
Meet Me In St. Louis, August 6–13
Before seeing the quintessential Gateway City musical, about the Smith family preparing for the 1904 World’s Fair, enjoy an iconic St. Louis dish: the toasted ravioli.
With more than 30 Italian restaurants, The Hill offers no shortage of options, including Anthonino’s. Slightly farther afield, there’s Trattoria Marcella and STL Toasted, the latter of which boasts less commonly found fillings, such as buffalo chicken and carrot cake gooey butter. Or opt for St. Louis-style pizza—specifically, Monte Bello, St. Louis’ oldest existing pizzeria.
For a taste of a dessert popularized at the 1904 World’s Fair, enjoy an ice cream cone at Clementine’s Naughty & Nice Creamery, offering locally made flavors, including gooey butter served in a waffle cone.
Something Rotten!, August 17–23
London, England marks the spot for this Tony-nominated musical comedy. While one of London’s classic dishes is fish and chips, the city also draws influence from other global cuisines, deeming chicken tikka masala their unofficial national dish. Himalayan Yeti offers both Indian and Nepali cuisine, and the creamy chicken tikka masala is among their many specialties.
For fish and chips, head to Lafayette Square’s Extra Wavy for their version. While the restaurant’s lobster donut sparks immediate craze and curiosity, its fish and chips deserve equal attention, featuring crispy battered cod paired with Extra Wavy’s uniquely addictive salt-and-vinegar fries
Tune into the Arch Eats podcast all about where to eat before The Muny this summer.
