Bakeries hold a special place in the hearts of many, offering a wide array of delicious treats that satisfy our sweet cravings. In St. Louis, Missouri Baking Co. stands out as a beloved bakery on The Hill, celebrating its 100th year in business. This iconic bakery serves up Italian treats that cater to every pastry lover’s desires. From cookies to cannoli, chocolate drops, and more, Missouri Baking Co. has something for everyone.
In the realm of bakeries, finalists Federhofer’s Bakery and Nathaniel Reid Bakery also deserve recognition for their commitment to delivering high-quality baked goods to the community. Federhofer’s Bakery and Nathaniel Reid Bakery have carved out their own niches in the St. Louis bakery scene, offering unique and delectable treats that keep customers coming back for more.
Moving on to the bar scene, Syberg’s takes the spotlight as the winner in the category of bars. With eight locations and a history spanning over 40 years, Syberg’s has become a staple sports bar in St. Louis. Known for their award-winning chicken wings and iconic Syberg’s Shark Bite cocktail, this family-owned business continues to delight patrons with its lively atmosphere and delicious offerings.
Helen Fitzgerald’s Irish Grill & Pub and Narwhal’s Crafted are recognized as finalists in the bar category, showcasing their own unique charm and specialties that have earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
When it comes to BBQ, Sugarfire Smoke House emerges as the winner, offering a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for classic barbecue, burgers, salad, or salmon, Sugarfire has you covered. With seven unique sauces to choose from, you can customize your meal to perfection and top it off with a slice of their delectable pie.
Pappy’s Smokehouse and Salt + Smoke are acknowledged as finalists in the BBQ category, known for their mouthwatering barbecue dishes that have garnered a loyal following in St. Louis.
For breakfast lovers, The Shack Breakfast & Lunch takes the crown as the winner, known for its memorable dining experience and creative menu. Customers are encouraged to write on the walls, adding a personal touch to their visit. With over-the-top dishes and creative names like “Make a Grown Man Cry” and “Why the French Hate Us,” The Shack offers a breakfast experience like no other.
Clara B’s Kitchen Table and hatch’d STL are recognized as finalists in the breakfast category, each bringing their own unique flair to the breakfast scene in St. Louis.
In the world of breweries, 4 Hands Brewing Co. secures the top spot as the winner, offering a diverse selection of beers that cater to every palate. Whether you’re an adventurous beer enthusiast or prefer the classics, 4 Hands has something for everyone. With seasonal beers that cycle through inventive flavors, as well as a range of food and arcade games at their original tasting room, 4 Hands provides a complete brewery experience.
Heavy Riff Brewing Co. and Schlafly Beer are acknowledged as finalists in the brewery category, showcasing their dedication to crafting quality beers that have earned them a place among the top breweries in St. Louis.
When it comes to brunch, The Shack Breakfast & Lunch takes the lead once again, offering a delightful array of sweet and savory dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With menu items like “Make a Grown Man Cry” and “Why the French Hate Us,” The Shack adds a playful twist to traditional brunch fare, making it a must-visit destination for brunch enthusiasts.
Carnivore STL and Twisted Tavern are recognized as finalists in the brunch category, each bringing their own unique spin on brunch offerings that have captured the hearts of diners in St. Louis.
In the burger category, Hi-Pointe Drive-In emerges as the winner, starting as a colorful burger joint off Highway 40 and growing into a multi-location favorite in St. Louis. Known for their mouthwatering burgers, salads, and milkshakes, Hi-Pointe Drive-In continues to impress customers with their flavorful offerings.
Mac’s Local Eats and Twisted Tavern are acknowledged as finalists in the burger category, showcasing their commitment to serving up delicious burgers that keep patrons coming back for more.
In the realm of chefs, Tyler Layton of Twisted Tree Steakhouse takes the top spot as the winner, known for his culinary expertise and dedication to crafting juicy steaks made from premium Black Angus beef. With a focus on quality ingredients and exceptional flavors, Tyler Layton has established himself as a standout chef in St. Louis.
Coby Arzola of Arzola’s Fajitas + Margaritas and Mike Lutker of Carnivore STL are recognized as finalists in the chef category, each bringing their own unique talents and culinary creations to the table.
When it comes to Chinese cuisine, Corner 17 emerges as the winner, offering a delightful array of handmade dumplings, orange chicken, and other specialties that showcase the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine. With special dishes like sweet and sour flounder, Sichuan spicy noodles, and mango fluffy ice for dessert, Corner 17 delivers an authentic dining experience that transports diners to the heart of China.
China King and Lu Lu Seafood & Dim Sum are acknowledged as finalists in the Chinese restaurant category, each offering their own take on traditional Chinese dishes that have earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
In the realm of chocolatiers, Crown Candy Kitchen takes the spotlight as the winner, known for its vast selection of sweet treats that range from chocolate-covered caramels to snappers with a satisfying crunch. With a legacy that spans generations, Crown Candy Kitchen continues to delight customers with their delectable chocolates and confections.
Bissinger’s and Chocolate Chocolate Chocolate Co. are recognized as finalists in the chocolatier category, each showcasing their own unique creations and dedication to crafting high-quality chocolates that have earned them a place among the top chocolatiers in St. Louis.
When it comes to cocktails, Narwhal’s Crafted secures the top spot as the winner, offering a refreshing array of frozen and on-the-rocks cocktails that are perfect for cooling off in the summer. With 14 frozen cocktails and a range of other options, Narwhal’s Crafted provides a unique cocktail experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail connoisseurs.
Planter’s House and Twisted Tavern are acknowledged as finalists in the cocktails category, each offering their own signature cocktails and creative libations that have captured the attention of cocktail enthusiasts in St. Louis.
In the realm of coffeehouses, Upshot Coffee emerges as the winner, known for its rich flavors and relaxed atmosphere that have made it a favorite among coffee lovers in St. Louis. With a focus on coffee roasting and creating unique coffee experiences, Upshot Coffee offers a diverse menu that caters to both beginners and coffee enthusiasts alike.
Exit 11 Coffee and Teleo Coffee are recognized as finalists in the coffeehouse category, each bringing their own unique coffee offerings and dedication to quality that have earned them a place among the top coffeehouses in St. Louis.
When it comes to cupcakes, Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Café takes the top spot as the winner, known for its award-winning cupcakes that have captured the hearts and taste buds of the city. With a monthly cupcake feature and a range of tried-and-true treats like the s’moreo and turtle cheesecake, Jilly’s Cupcake Bar & Café continues to impress customers with their creative and delicious cupcakes.
The Cup and Sarah’s Cake Shop are acknowledged as finalists in the cupcake category, each offering their own unique cupcake creations that have earned them a place among the top cupcake bakeries in St. Louis.
In the realm of desserts, The Blue Owl emerges as the winner, offering a range of flavorful treats that cater to every sweet tooth. Whether you prefer fruit desserts like the award-winning Levee High Apple Pie or the peach pie, or indulgent treats like the Snicker Bar Pie or gooey butter cheesecake, The Blue Owl has something for everyone.
Nathaniel Reid Bakery and Sugar & Slice Bakery on Main are recognized as finalists in the desserts category, each showcasing their own unique dessert creations that have captured the hearts of dessert lovers in St. Louis.
In the diner category, Billy G’s Chesterfield takes the spotlight as the winner, offering a unique take on a diner experience with elevated fare in a casual setting. Known for their classic breakfast menu served all day, as well as dinner options like the smokehouse smashburger and rigatoni alla vodka, Billy G’s Chesterfield provides a dining experience that is both comforting and delicious.
Courtesy Diner and Southwest Diner are acknowledged as finalists in the diner category, each offering their own twist on classic diner fare that has earned them a place among the top diners in St. Louis.
When it comes to distilleries, Old Monroe Distilling Co. (formerly Stumpy’s Spirits Distillery) secures the top spot as the winner, emphasizing a farm-to-table, family-driven approach to crafting their signature bourbon whiskey. With notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, Old Monroe bourbon whiskey offers a unique and flavorful drinking experience that has captured the attention of spirits enthusiasts in St. Louis.
Pinckney Bend Distillery and StilL 630 Distillery are recognized as finalists in the distillery category, each showcasing their own distinctive spirits and dedication to quality that have earned them a place among the top distilleries in St. Louis.
When it comes to doughnuts, Old Town Donuts emerges as the winner, known for baking up fresh and tasty doughnuts for over 30 years. Whether you prefer a simple glazed or Long John, or opt for their blueberry cake doughnut or old-fashioned, Old Town Donuts offers a delightful selection of doughnuts that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Donut Drive-In and The Donut Stop are acknowledged as finalists in the doughnut category, each offering their own delicious doughnut creations that have earned them a place among the top doughnut shops in St. Louis.
In the realm of farmers markets, Soulard Farmers Market takes the spotlight as the winner, remaining a hub of eclectic sights and sounds centuries after opening near the banks of the Mississippi. Known for its high-quality produce and diverse array of vendors, Soulard Farmers Market continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
The Summit All Seasons Market, Kirkwood Farmers Market, and Tower Grove Farmers’ Market are recognized as finalists in the farmers market category, each offering their own unique selection of goods and produce that have earned them a place among the top farmers markets in St. Louis.
When it comes to fine dining restaurants, Twisted Tree Steakhouse secures the top spot as the winner, known for its wet-aged steaks and innovative Sip & Savor menu. With a focus on quality ingredients and exceptional flavors, Twisted Tree Steakhouse offers a fine dining experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning diners.
Annie Gunn’s and LoRusso’s Cucina are acknowledged as finalists in the fine dining restaurant category, each offering their own unique culinary creations and dedication to providing a top-notch dining experience in St. Louis.
In the food truck category, Truck Norris STL emerges as the winner, offering an extensive menu filled with a variety of delicious options like nachos, egg rolls, sushi, and sandwiches. Known for their Tot-Chos—a crispy tater tot creation topped with pulled pork, St. Louis-style barbecue sauce, and a heap of toppings—Truck Norris STL continues to delight customers with their creative and flavorful offerings.
Narwhal’s Crafted and Taste-D-Burger STL are recognized as finalists in the food truck category, each bringing their own unique culinary creations and dedication to providing a top-notch food truck experience in St. Louis.
When it comes to French fries, Steve’s Hot Dogs takes the spotlight as the winner, offering a range of delicious fry options that pair perfectly with their iconic hot dogs. With choices like the buffalo-and-bacon-topped Darth Tater fries, Steve’s Hot Dogs delivers a unique and flavorful fry experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
Mascots and Taste-D-Burger are acknowledged as finalists in the French fries category, each offering their own twist on classic fry creations that have earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
In the realm of French restaurants, Brasserie by Niche secures the top spot as the winner, offering a French-inspired dining experience that transports diners to the heart of France. With entrées like pan-seared trout amandine, bistro steak, and duck l’orange, Brasserie by Niche delivers an authentic French culinary experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning diners.
Cafe Provencal and La Bonne Bouchée are recognized as finalists in the French restaurant category, each offering their own unique take on French cuisine that has captured the hearts of diners in St. Louis.
When it comes to fried chicken, Hodak’s Restaurant & Bar emerges as the winner, known for its golden-fried chicken that strikes the perfect balance of tenderness, flavor, and crunch. A St. Louis staple since 1962, Hodak’s has grown from a small tavern to a beloved restaurant and bar that continues to delight customers with their delicious fried chicken.
Joey B’s and King Edward’s Chicken & Fish are acknowledged as finalists in the fried chicken category, each offering their own unique take on this classic comfort food that has earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
In the realm of frozen custard, Ted Drewes Frozen Custard takes the spotlight as the winner, known for its iconic yellow cups that are a hallmark of summertime in St. Louis. With a wide range of specialty items and custard combos to choose from, Ted Drewes offers the perfect cold treat for everyone, served upside down as tradition dictates.
Andy’s Frozen Custard and Doozle’s Frozen Custard are recognized as finalists in the frozen custard category, each offering their own unique frozen custard creations that have captured the hearts of dessert lovers in St. Louis.
When it comes to Greek cuisine, Olympia Kebob House & Taverna emerges as the winner, known for serving authentic Greek food in a warm and inviting atmosphere. With popular dishes like gyros, lamb chops with rice and vegetables, and fresh Mediterranean salads, Olympia Kebob House & Taverna delivers a true taste of Greece that keeps customers coming back for more.
Michael’s Bar & Grill and Spiro’s Restaurant are acknowledged as finalists in the Greek restaurant category, each offering their own unique take on Greek cuisine that has earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
In the grocery store category, Schnucks secures the top spot as the winner, offering a wide range of products and services that cater to the needs of customers across four states. Founded in North St. Louis in 1939, Schnucks has grown into a family-owned company with over 115 stores that provide curbside and delivery services, as well as cooking classes for customers.
Dierbergs Markets and Straub’s are recognized as finalists in the grocery store category, each offering their own unique selection of products and services that have earned them a place among the top grocery stores in St. Louis.
When it comes to happy hour spots, Syberg’s takes the spotlight as the winner, offering a range of specials on drinks, pizzas, and appetizers during their weekday happy hour. With a lively atmosphere and a diverse menu of offerings, Syberg’s provides the perfect setting for a fun and relaxing happy hour experience.
Helen Fitzgerald’s Irish Grill & Pub and Narwhal’s Crafted are acknowledged as finalists in the happy hour category, each offering their own unique happy hour specials and vibrant atmospheres that have earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
In the category of hidden gem restaurants, Liliana’s Italian Kitchen emerges as the winner, offering a diverse menu of Italian sandwiches, salads, pastas, and pizzas that cater to every palate. With a focus on quality ingredients and traditional recipes, Liliana’s Italian Kitchen provides a dining experience that is both comforting and delicious.
Fratelli’s Ristorante and Vicini Pastaria are recognized as finalists in the hidden gem restaurant category, each offering their own unique culinary creations and dedication to providing a top-notch dining experience in St. Louis.
When it comes to ice cream, Clementine’s Creamery takes the spotlight as the winner, known for their new spins on old classics and unique flavors that surprise and delight customers. Whether you’re in the mood for honey lavender or gooey butter cake ice cream, or want to try one of their alcoholic flavors, Clementine’s offers a diverse selection of ice creams that cater to every taste.
Singers Ice Cream and Sugarwitch are acknowledged as finalists in the ice cream category, each offering their own unique ice cream creations that have captured the hearts of dessert lovers in St. Louis.
In the realm of Indian cuisine, House of India secures the top spot as the winner, offering a diverse menu of authentic Indian dishes that transport diners to the vibrant flavors of India. With a focus on seafood, chicken, lamb, and vegetarian options, House of India provides a culinary experience that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Black Salt and Himalayan Yeti are recognized as finalists in the Indian restaurant category, each offering their own unique take on Indian cuisine that has earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
When it comes to Italian cuisine, Fratelli’s Ristorante emerges as the winner, known for their scratch-made Italian comfort foods that are served in a bright and modern locale. With a focus on fresh pastas, St. Louis–style pizza, and their famous creamy Italian house dressing, Fratelli’s Ristorante delivers an authentic Italian dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
Cunetto House of Pasta and Liliana’s Italian Kitchen are acknowledged as finalists in the Italian restaurant category, each offering their own unique Italian dishes and culinary creations that have captured the hearts of diners in St. Louis.
In the realm of Korean cuisine, Seoul Taco takes the spotlight as the winner, offering a unique fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors that delight the taste buds. With a menu that includes tacos, burritos, nachos, and more, Seoul Taco provides a flavorful dining experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning diners.
Kimchi Guys and Tiny Chef are recognized as finalists in the Korean restaurant category, each offering their own unique take on Korean cuisine that has earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
When it comes to Latin cuisine, Mayo Ketchup secures the top spot as the winner, serving authentic Venezuelan and Colombian street food in a casual environment in Lafayette Square. With dishes like beef or chicken empanadas and queso frito, Mayo Ketchup offers a taste of Latin America that transports diners to the vibrant streets of Venezuela and Colombia.
Asador Del Sur and TANGO Argentina Food are acknowledged as finalists in the Latin restaurant category, each offering their own unique Latin dishes and culinary creations that have captured the hearts of diners in St. Louis.
In the category of liquor or wine stores, Total Wine & More emerges as the winner, offering a wide selection of drinks that cater to every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail mix, a pack of beer or seltzer, or a bottle of wine at any price range, Total Wine & More has you covered.
Randall’s and The Wine and Cheese Place are recognized as finalists in the liquor or wine store category, each offering their own unique selection of drinks and spirits that have earned them a place among the top contenders in St. Louis.
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, Arzola’s Fajitas + Margaritas takes the spotlight as the winner, known for their signature fajitas that steal the show