Craving a delicious meal in Kirkwood, Missouri, but feeling overwhelmed by the choices? Maybe you’re dreaming of a perfectly cooked steak, authentic Italian pasta, or a casual burger and fries. Whatever your appetite desires, you’re certainly not alone! Kirkwood, a charming suburb of St. Louis, is known for its historic downtown, family-friendly atmosphere, and, increasingly, its fantastic food scene.
This comprehensive guide will be your key to unlocking the best food options in and around Kirkwood, covering a diverse range of cuisines and price points. We’ll explore everything from cozy cafes perfect for a quick lunch to upscale dining experiences ideal for a special occasion. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through Kirkwood and its neighboring communities.
Kirkwood’s Core: Restaurants in the Heart of Town
Let’s begin our exploration in the very heart of Kirkwood, where a delightful selection of restaurants awaits. The historic downtown area is home to several standout establishments that capture the essence of Kirkwood’s welcoming spirit.
The Kirkwood Station Brewing Company
For a truly Kirkwood experience, The Kirkwood Station Brewing Company is a must-visit. This brewery and restaurant boasts a menu packed with classic pub fare, elevated comfort food, and, of course, a wide selection of their own craft beers. Think juicy burgers, crispy wings, flavorful sandwiches, and hearty entrees like fish and chips or shepherd’s pie. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends or a family outing. The price point is moderate, making it accessible for most diners. A standout dish? Definitely try their signature burger paired with one of their handcrafted brews. Located right in the heart of downtown Kirkwood, parking can be a little tricky at peak times, but street parking is usually available within a short walk.
Vito’s Sicilian Pizzeria & Ristorante
If you’re in the mood for authentic Italian cuisine, Vito’s Sicilian Pizzeria & Ristorante is the place to be. Vito’s is a long-time local favorite, renowned for its warm atmosphere, friendly service, and, of course, its incredibly delicious pizza and pasta dishes. Their Sicilian-style pizza is a standout, with a thick, chewy crust and generous toppings. But don’t overlook their pasta – the lasagna and spaghetti carbonara are also excellent choices. With its warm lighting and cozy booths, Vito’s offers a relaxing dining experience. The price point is moderate, making it a great option for a family dinner or a casual date night. This location is conveniently located close to the heart of Kirkwood, but has its own parking lot to make it easier to access.
Mike Duffy’s Pub & Grill
For those seeking a lively atmosphere with delicious food, Mike Duffy’s Pub & Grill is the place to go. The menu has something for everyone including appetizers, salads, pasta, seafood, ribs, and burgers. You will not be disappointed with the wide range of choices that Mike Duffy’s has to offer and makes it a must go to local pub and grill. Located in the Kirkwood Commons, which has plenty of parking spaces to make it easy and enjoyable to visit.
While Kirkwood’s downtown area has a lot to offer, the culinary adventure doesn’t stop there. Just a short drive away, you’ll find a wealth of amazing dining options in neighboring communities.
Expanding Your Horizons: Food in Neighboring Areas
Venturing beyond Kirkwood’s borders opens up a world of culinary possibilities. The neighboring areas of Webster Groves, Des Peres, and Glendale each offer their own unique dining experiences and hidden gems. Exploring these communities is well worth the short drive, as they provide a wider variety of cuisines and atmospheres.
Olive + Oak (Webster Groves)
Just a stone’s throw from Kirkwood in Webster Groves is Olive + Oak, a restaurant that has garnered a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional food, craft cocktails, and sophisticated ambiance. Olive + Oak is a popular choice for special occasions and date nights. The menu features a creative selection of New American dishes, prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. One dish that consistently receives rave reviews is the O+O Burger, known for its perfectly cooked patty and flavorful toppings. Expect to pay a higher price point at Olive + Oak, but the experience is well worth the investment. Street parking can be competitive, but there are parking lots nearby.
St. Louis Kolache (Richmond Heights)
A quick drive to Richmond Heights offers the opportunity to taste one of St. Louis’ delicacies. The St. Louis Kolache offers a wide range of kolaches that is sure to get you thinking about which ones you are going to try first. The kolaches are made fresh everyday with a variety of different options to chose from. The price point is friendly and is sure to be a hit.
Quick Bites and Casual Eats
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor or quality. Thankfully, Kirkwood and its surrounding areas have plenty of fantastic options for those times when you’re short on time or simply craving something casual.
Coma Coffee Roasters
If you need a caffeine fix in the morning, then this is your place. This coffee shop offers pastries and other breakfast meals to give you the boost in the morning. They also have plenty of space for those who like to sip on a coffee and get to work.
Imo’s Pizza
No discussion of St. Louis food would be complete without mentioning Imo’s Pizza. This local chain is famous for its thin-crust pizza, topped with Provel cheese, a St. Louis original. Imo’s offers both dine-in and carryout options, making it a convenient choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Blue Sky Cafe
Located in downtown Kirkwood, Blue Sky is a casual location that is a local favorite. The menu includes breakfast and lunch, including sandwiches, salads and other casual delights.
Sweet Treats & Dessert Destinations
No meal is truly complete without something sweet to finish it off! Kirkwood and the neighboring areas offer a delightful array of dessert destinations, from classic ice cream parlors to charming bakeries.
Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Ice Cream
Clementine’s Naughty and Nice Ice Cream is the only microcreamery in Saint Louis crafting small batch, handmade ice cream with both “naughty” (alcohol-infused) and “nice” (non-alcoholic) options.
La Bonne Bouchee
La Bonne Bouchee is a bakery and pastry shop that specializes in fine desserts. Their menu contains a wide variety of pastries, cookies, and cakes. Their pastries are prepared fresh everyday to the delight of all those who visit.
Tips for Choosing a Restaurant Near Food in Kirkwood MO
With so many fantastic food options available near Kirkwood, how do you choose the perfect place for your next meal? Consider these factors:
Cuisine: What are you in the mood for? Are you craving Italian, Mexican, American, or something else entirely? Narrowing down your cuisine preferences will help you quickly eliminate options.
Price: What’s your budget? Restaurants near Kirkwood range from affordable casual eateries to upscale fine dining establishments. Determine how much you’re willing to spend per person before you start your search.
Ambiance: Are you looking for a casual and relaxed atmosphere, or something more formal and romantic? Consider the occasion and choose a restaurant that matches the desired mood.
Dietary Restrictions: Do you have any allergies or dietary needs? Be sure to check the restaurant’s menu online or call ahead to inquire about gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary options.
Reviews: Check online reviews on websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor to get an idea of what other people think of the restaurant. Pay attention to the overall rating, as well as specific comments about the food, service, and atmosphere.
Take advantage of online resources like restaurant websites and online review sites to make an informed decision and find the perfect restaurant near Kirkwood for your next culinary adventure.
Conclusion
As you can see, Kirkwood and its surrounding areas offer a diverse and exciting food scene. Whether you’re looking for a casual burger, a romantic dinner, a quick bite, or a sweet treat, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. From the classic charm of Kirkwood Station Brewing Company to the refined cuisine of Olive + Oak, there’s a restaurant near Kirkwood to suit every taste and budget.
So, the next time you’re looking for a great meal near Kirkwood, use this guide as your starting point. Explore the restaurants mentioned in this article, and don’t be afraid to venture out and discover your own hidden gems. Happy eating! What are your favorite restaurants near Kirkwood? Share them in the comments below! The best food in Kirkwood Missouri is right around the corner. Food is abundant near Kirkwood MO and should be enjoyed by all.
