50 Best American Restaurants near University City

“Blueberry Hill is an absolute gem! The atmosphere is vibrant and full of character, making it the perfect spot to hang out with friends or enjoy a night out. The staff are fantastic—friendly, attentive, and always ready to make your experience special. Their food and drinks are top-notch, bursting with flavor and made fresh. What really makes Blueberry Hill stand out is its unique and eclectic decor—you can explore the really cool Duck Room, admire walls filled with everything from sports memorabilia to Spice Girl dolls, and even check out a Pac-Man room! The mix of history, fun, and quirky details creates an experience unlike anywhere else in St. Louis. Plus, the prices are very reasonable for the quality and vibe you get here. If you want a spot that’s both fun and authentic, Blueberry Hill is where you need to be. Highly recommend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“

“Great bbq. Will be back. Great service“

“I came into st luois for work trip and came across kreugers. It was the perfect place to have a great evening. Out of my entire trip i had the most memorable night here. The food here was on point the chef Johnathan suggested we try the smash burger and im glad I took his recommendation I did not expect how delicious it would be. If your looking for a great enviourment with some tasty eats ide recommend dropping by!!“

“Chicago Fish & Chicken Grill has the back cake ever so fresh, soft, moist, and yummy....stop in today to grab you a slice.“

“Best soda ever ! Wish I could get it here in NJ“

“Great cocktails, food, and service. Maggie was a great waitress!“

“Absolutely incredible food and service here. We’ve done both dinner and brunch. One of our favorite spots in STL. Highly recommend“

“I absolutely love The Fountain on Locust! It is by far one of my favorite restaurants in St. Louis! The food is amazing and the dessert is always the perfect way to end the meal! Every time I have been to The Fountain on Locust, I have left happier than when I came in! The staff is very welcoming and they always do a great job, providing top-tier service!“

“My wife and I, wayward travelers from Arkansas in town to see the TMBG show at the Pageant, stumbled in out of the pouring rain to enjoy the fabled floats. They did not disappoint! A special shout out to Darcy whose warmth and hospitality made this particularly memorable. Thank you Darcy!“

“Great burgers! I LOVED my TriPPPy burger which has a pineapple chutney and bacon jam. You will want extra napkins with that one.? My husband built his own burger to get just what he wanted and enjoyed his burger. They also have veggie options, but these carnivores did not explore them.“

“We really enjoyed the food and atmosphere can’t wait to come back!!! My husband had the salmon, rich and broccoli this was cooked to perfection! I had the fish tacos they were so good. Our desert was carrot cake & raspberry lemon cake they melted in our mouths. This restaurant gets 10 stars we absolutely love it!!!“

“We had a great dinner. Kids had the steak and unlike many places, they were willing to go as rare as my 8 year old wanted for her child size steak which was nice. Service was also great, excellent timing and attention. …and bit off topic but if the hostess with the curly red hair sees this, I hope you know that your natural runway walk doesn’t need to be ignored.. if you aren’t modeling, you should be! ✨💃🏼“

“Great homemade food. Staff are wonderful. Great place to go.“

“Start with the Pork Belly Cheese Fries! I highly suggest the DLT sandwich with tater tots. Be sure to save room for some macarons. A staple in Maplewood: the staff is friendly, the bar has some great offerings, and the food is delicious. I highly suggest making a second trip to try brunch - you can't go wrong with Eggs Bene-duck.“

“Amazing food, atmosphere, service, great quality and quantity for what you pay for and the dessert section is huge! My new favorite place“

“Best ham and cheese omelet the food was great an we truly enjoy the staff Thank You to let u know we r from poplar Bu Bluff mo“

“Absolutely amazing! The food and drinks were outstanding and the service was even better. Couldn’t have asked for a better evening. Can’t wait to go back. If you’re looking for a nice restaurant with the best food, this is it!“

“Drove around trying to find a food and wine spot at 9pm and this place filled in what I was looking for and much more. Super cute spot, not busy, calming ambiance, delicious food and wine. My bartender was so friendly. 10/10 highly recommend.“

“The waiter was excellent! The food was amazing. The entire staff did a awesome job with greeting and service! I will definitely be back🎉🥰“

“Timothy’s by far surpassed my expectations in every aspect! The service was exceptional. The food was to die for, so much flavor. The drinks were fun and balanced. The atmosphere was intimate and moody. I will be telling everyone I see on the sidewalk about this restaurant! I can’t wait to go back!“

“Have been going here since I was a kid and to me this place will always be the best burger joint in town. Bacon chuck with cheese a curly fry and some cheddar cheese balls with a cherry coke , can't get any better just wish we could go back inside and sit down and eat because the atmosphere was the best!!!!!!! Absolutely love this place.“

“This is the perfect venue for any large gathering or celebration - the best food,m and an awesome atmosphere!“

“Ok, here’s the thing… I love food. And when I say I love food, you might think I’m a huge person or a food critic or a chef or just a dramatic fan. Well, I am actually an artist, and I… I can tell you in no uncertain terms, that the food we received was *high art.* I don’t mean the kind of pretentious high art food that is served in tiny portions and so beautiful that you almost don’t want to eat it. I mean that it was masterfully created—flavorful, textured to perfection, filling, and lamentable *only* in that I wish I’d had room for more. We started with the stuffed mushroom appetizer—which I’ll admit is not usually my favorite, but my wife generally loves—served upon a sprinkle of arugula and a slashed drizzle of balsamic glaze. Imma tell ya… I like stuffed mushrooms now. My wife ordered an entrée of eggplant Parmesan—one that she doesn’t care to make often for herself only because (and I’m quoting), “It’s a pain in the a$$ to cook.” I ordered linguine Pomodoro with added shrimp and had the steamed mussels appetizer served with my entrée, so that I could add them in (as I *do* love a tutto mare). Since my wife’s entrée was one of her favorites, and I don’t generally care for it, I left her to it, concentrating on my own. I shucked all the mussels and strained their accompanying shallots and bacon into my linguine leaving the garlic and cilantro pesto behind for bread dipping. OH [*clap*clap*clap*]—I forgot to mention the bread. They served a fantastic mini loaf of the softest bread topped with caramelized onions alongside fresh grated Parmesan in olive oil. Upon our finishing it off, I asked for a second helping. Back to the entrée… My first actual bite was of the mussels, and that bite was fantastic. Then I had one of the shrimp… and… here’s the thing… I am a poet, and I also write children’s books, so when I tell you that I simply do not have a superlative sufficient to describe the shrimp, you know I’m being serious. It was warm, seasoned, and snappy as shrimp should be, but it gave me pause—as Anton Ego in Ratatouille. * First, doubt—that I had experienced something so specifically wonderful before * Then, a quick scan from childhood to now for confirmation * And lastly, the comfort that can only come from those happiest memories of childhood—Christmas mornings on receiving more than you could ever have hoped for, Halloween nights’ preparations for what giggles and terrors were to come, and burrito-you ensconced in soft blankets straight from the dryer Then of course, the rest of the dish, twirled and slurped—not too quickly… every bite a confirmation and yet still a revelation. Here again, my only lament that I must see a portion of it boxed to leave room for dessert. And… dessert. Oh, boy… Seeing all of the items, my wife and I—in celebration of our 26th anniversary—decided on the sampler. Listen up, folks: flourless chocolate torta, crème custard napoleon, and gooey butter cake. JFC are you serious? Every bite more sumptuous—more scrumptious than the last. Every bit a reassurance that I will return. Our server, Chelsea, was commendable not only for her menu knowledge and sense of humor, but it’s not for nothing that she was absolutely on top of it with regard to my tea refills (which were many, as our dinner took place after a dehydratingly-busy workday for me). We will definitely be returning to Eleven Eleven, whereupon I intend to try a few different items, my palate then flooded with new sensations—new wonders… my only lament that I will not ever have that “first time experience” again.“

“First time visitor here, and Square One really left a great first impression! I brought a group of 8 in for a birthday dinner, and the staff really went above and beyond to accommodate a short-notice reservation for us. Unfortunately I don’t remember our server’s name, but she was phenomenal as well. Food was fantastic, our waters were always filled, and finished dishes didn’t sit around long. Would definitely recommend and will visit again!“

“The eyeglasses guy with a hat
He’s nice and sweet to us
I came with my wife first time like dinner time last night and he was busy, but he took care of us ☺️

T is a nice young guy and explained very well about the food and he’s a good sales guy
We got drinks and cakes

Today on Thursday I came and this guy have no idea what he saying and trying to order my food
I hope it was T not the other guy“

“We had our company holiday party here and they did an amazing job. the ambience was PERFECT, food was amazing, drinks were awesome and the staff was delightful. The evening was a huge hit with everyone, I'm certain many of us will be back for a dinner or group event, can't go wrong.“

“Best Gyro I have found in st.louis.“

“the food was great, the service was great too! Maya was our waitress. when we left I forgot my purse, and I didn't realize it until the next day! went back and they had it set back for me, completely intact! great business!!“

“We had an office boxed luncheon and the food was amazing, delivery was on time and ordering was super simple. The staff is always so friendly and they accommodated a lot of our dietary restrictions. Got many praises for the food and so will definitely order from them again. Love when we can support small businesses that have amazing food.“

“an amazing restaurant, amazing food, owners and staff have hearts of gold“

“Been enjoying The Royale most weeks since 2015. Best bar and restaurant in town. A gem. Chill tavern vibes, DJs, local art, gorgeous courtyard, old movies, vinyl records, and a stellar menu. Owner Steve is the best. Get the fish tacos, a fresh margarita, a local beer, or whatever you’re into. Hell, I’m about to head there right now writing this review. I’m not even joking.“

“Great food and excellent service“

“The staff were very personable, and inviting. I had such a great experience! The food was hot and delicious also. We were a party of 20+ and they took care of us very well. I’d definitely return! I think there were only two people running the kitchen but if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn’t have believed it based on the service.“

“The lobby was kept amazingly clean and the hostess (Anita) was vey pleasant and friendly. She offered me a free cup of coffee for dining inside.“

“My 4 year old LOVES to cook, everyone was so welcoming and helpful when we visited! Everything is always clean and organized and the food is delicious! It was nice to prep meals and provide a great learning experience all in one! My little chef and I will be back!“

“Not only was the food amazing, but we received first class service from our server, Travis!!! VERY fresh & delicious food with a large menu, fast service, and a welcoming atmosphere. 100% recommend.“

“We ate here earlier today and it was so good! The wings were fried but not at all greasy. The gyro was so big my student could barely pick it up. Everything was very fresh. This place is a hidden gem for sure!“

“A Hidden Gem in St. Louis!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My husband and I were visiting for an event when we heard about this spot from some friendly folks at the airport—and wow, what a recommendation! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was cozy, cute, and creatively inviting, setting the perfect tone for an amazing experience. THE FOOD? Absolutely incredible. We ordered enough to last the weekend, and let me tell you—those Brisket Burnt Ends & The Brisket Burger somehow tasted even better the next day! The potato skins were delicious too, packed with flavor. What really stood out was that this place isn't just for vegans—it's for anyone who loves great food and stellar service! If we’re ever back in St. Louis, we’re coming straight here without a doubt. Highly recommend! #StLouisEats #FoodieFind #HighlyRecommended #BrisketBurntEnds #VeganOrNotYoullLoveIt“

“Absolutely amazing food!!!“

“As a person with Celiac visiting your town I felt so welcome and safe- and it was a huge treat to eat an entire plate of yummy fried goodness that was safely prepared for someone like me. But the awesomeness didn’t stop there- the friendly bartender shared more Celiac safe local hotspots with us as well!“

“Spectacular venue! Great food, drinks, and sound. Can’t wait to go back for the next show!“

“Delicious and super friendly owners/staff“

“We ordered five meals. All of them were superb. The staff was warm friendly and courteous. The atmosphere was pleasant.“

“Food and service was awesome.“

“We met up with family from out of town on Friday night. The food was great as always. We sat and chit chatted for a bit after we were finished eating. Our sever was cut and we were not told. When we were ready to leave the server who had taken over our table was very rude and made a comment I finally get my station back! As we were getting up and walking away she went further to say that maybe she will be able to get a table finally before she’s cut. Nothing was mentioned about her needing her table or anything of that nature otherwise we would have gladly given it up. We’ve never had this issue when dining at biggies before. We were astonished and how rude she was instead of just asking us if we were finished. She never offered to refill our drinks or anything. We are very disappointed as we believed this was a family friendly environment who did not have an issue with a family getting together to celebrate the holiday early“

“At the suggestion of my friend Beth, we came here for her Birthday 🎂 I had never been before, but I am always up for new things and trying healthy foods! When pulling into the parking lot, I was greeted by a darling building that was fresh and delightful. Sooo cute 😍 My friend and I, we love to dress like there's a party 🥳 every time we get together, so she was looking adorbs with her wide leg jeans, scarf worn as a belt, a white soft button up, and a black patterned jacket...🤩 and I had a mint green and paisley/floral dress and a hat 👒, because a hat I was born to wear! We each ordered our food, which I had previewed the menu ahead and decided on salmon and Mac n cheese. The salmon was cooked perfectly. It was tender and moist, which is important for salmon! The Mac n cheese was a little dry, but probably because we had a good conversation going and I may have waited too long to get to that. Lol I also had a fruit cup with fresh fruits. I should mention that I had a double chocolate almond brownie, that was tempting me at the ordering counter. 😜 The young lady at the order counter was very kind and helpful, especially since it was my first time. I definitely will be back!“

“We visited the Art Museum last week and then had lunch at The Panorama resturant at the suggestion of a friendly person we met earlier at the Half and Half in Clayton. This person told us about how great the brussel sprouts were at the Panorama and so we had to try them and they were fabulous. All of us, including my mother, who is 88 years young, thoroughly enjoyed the meal. We set next to the large wall of windows and the sun shone perfectly, lighting the room with a beautiful warmth. The server was excellent and the menu becons our return.“

“the service was amazing the waitress was very helpful and very pleasant“

“My first time in I had the scallops and they won me over. I have been a frequent diner ever since. That was three years ago and I have been impressed ever since. Great place to bring family and friends. Having a son with Celiac can be challenging to eat out yet Big Sky is always cautious and accommodating. Desserts are all homemade and phenomenal!“

“PJs is a fantastic bar and grill“