St. Louis, Missouri, affectionately known as the Gateway to the West, boasts a rich history woven with threads of beer and culinary innovation. From its brewing roots deeply embedded in German heritage to its thriving contemporary craft beer scene, St. Louis has long been a haven for beer enthusiasts. Complementing this vibrant beer culture is a burgeoning food scene, creating a symbiotic relationship where exceptional craft beer finds its perfect culinary partner. Increasingly, breweries are recognizing the importance of offering more than just a pint; they’re crafting menus that elevate the entire brewery experience, transforming a simple beer outing into a full-fledged culinary adventure. This guide unveils some of the finest St. Louis breweries where you can discover not only expertly brewed craft beer but also incredibly delicious food, ensuring a truly comprehensive and satisfying dining experience.
What Defines a Top-Tier Brewery Restaurant?
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s crucial to establish the criteria that distinguish a superb brewery restaurant from an average one. It’s about far more than simply offering hot dogs or pretzels alongside your lager.
First and foremost, the quality of the beer remains paramount. The brewery should consistently produce fresh, well-crafted beers across a variety of styles. A diverse selection that caters to different palates, from crisp pilsners to hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, is a hallmark of a brewery committed to excellence. The availability of seasonal brews and experimental batches is also a sign of a dynamic and innovative brewing program.
Equally important is the food menu itself. Does the menu complement the beer selection, enhancing the overall dining experience? Is it more than just an afterthought, offering a curated selection of dishes that pair well with the beers on tap? A great brewery restaurant goes beyond typical bar snacks, providing flavorful, thoughtfully prepared meals. Consideration for dietary restrictions, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, is a welcome addition.
The ambiance of the brewery plays a significant role in its overall appeal. Is it a comfortable and inviting space to relax and enjoy a meal? Does it offer both indoor and outdoor seating options? Is it family-friendly or geared more towards an adult crowd? The overall atmosphere should contribute to a positive and memorable experience.
The service provided by the staff can make or break a brewery restaurant. Knowledgeable staff members who can guide you through the beer list and suggest food pairings are invaluable. Attentive and friendly service creates a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits.
Finally, value is a critical consideration. Are the prices reasonable for the quality of the beer and food? A brewery restaurant should offer a satisfying experience that justifies the cost, making it a worthwhile investment for diners.
Featured Breweries with Food Highlights
Now, let’s explore some exceptional St. Louis breweries that have successfully integrated culinary excellence into their operations:
Urban Chestnut Brewing Company
Urban Chestnut Brewing Company stands out as a true pioneer in the St. Louis craft beer scene. Founded on a commitment to both Reinheitsgebot-inspired German beers and innovative American craft styles, Urban Chestnut offers a diverse and engaging beer lineup.
Their food menu, heavily influenced by German cuisine, perfectly complements their beer offerings. Expect to find hearty dishes like schnitzel, wursts, and spätzle, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. A standout pairing is their Stammtisch German-style pale lager with the Schweinshaxe, a roasted pork shank served with sauerkraut and potato dumplings. The crispness of the beer cuts through the richness of the pork, creating a harmonious flavor combination.
With multiple locations across St. Louis, each boasting its own unique atmosphere, Urban Chestnut provides a welcoming space for both beer and food lovers. Their Grove location often features live music, while their Midtown location offers a more industrial-chic ambiance.
Four Hands Brewing Co.
Four Hands Brewing Co., situated in the heart of downtown St. Louis, is another brewery that has embraced the importance of culinary offerings. Known for their hop-forward IPAs and innovative seasonal brews, Four Hands boasts a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Their food menu focuses on elevated bar snacks and shareable plates, perfect for enjoying with friends while sampling their beers. From their signature pretzels with beer cheese to their Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich, each dish is designed to complement their beers. For a truly satisfying experience, pair their City Wide American Pale Ale with the aforementioned Nashville Hot Chicken. The citrusy hops in the beer cut through the spice of the chicken, creating a balanced and flavorful combination.
Four Hands also hosts regular food truck events and collaborations with local chefs, adding even more variety to their culinary offerings.
Schlafly Bottleworks
As one of the original pioneers of the St. Louis craft beer movement, Schlafly Bottleworks has long been a staple of the local brewing scene. With a commitment to quality and consistency, Schlafly offers a wide range of classic beer styles, as well as seasonal and experimental brews.
Their Bottleworks location boasts a full-service restaurant with a menu that features American comfort food with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. From their signature burgers and sandwiches to their flavorful salads and entrees, there’s something for everyone on their menu. A classic pairing is their Pale Ale with the Fish and Chips. The crisp, hoppy beer cuts through the richness of the fried fish, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Schlafly also offers brewery tours and events, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Civil Life Brewing Company
Civil Life Brewing Company, located in the Tower Grove South neighborhood, offers a more laid-back and community-focused atmosphere. With a focus on classic British and European beer styles, Civil Life is known for its well-balanced and highly drinkable beers.
While Civil Life doesn’t have a full kitchen, they often partner with local food vendors to offer a variety of delicious food options. From pop-up burger nights to pizza collaborations, there’s always something tasty to enjoy alongside their beers. A classic pairing is their American Brown Ale with a juicy burger. The malty sweetness of the beer complements the savory flavors of the burger, creating a comforting and satisfying combination.
Civil Life is a popular gathering place for locals, and their welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy a pint with friends.
Side Project Brewing – Cellar
For a truly unique and experimental beer experience, Side Project Brewing is a must-visit. Known for their barrel-aged sour beers and farmhouse ales, Side Project is a destination for adventurous beer drinkers.
While their original location is focused solely on beer, Side Project’s Cellar location offers a curated menu of small plates and charcuterie boards that perfectly complement their complex and nuanced beers. From artisanal cheeses to house-cured meats, each item is carefully selected to enhance the beer-drinking experience. A recommended pairing is their Saison du Fermier with a selection of artisanal cheeses. The earthy, spicy notes of the beer complement the creamy and tangy flavors of the cheese.
Side Project is a small and intimate space, and reservations are highly recommended.
Hidden Gems & Honorable Mentions
Beyond the featured breweries, several other St. Louis breweries offer notable food options:
- Rockwell Beer Co: Known for its experimental and innovative beers, Rockwell also offers a creative food menu that complements their adventurous brews.
- Perennial Artisan Ales: This brewery features a delicious brunch menu on weekends, pairing perfectly with their farmhouse ales and stouts.
- 2nd Shift Brewing: Often has food trucks on site.
Tips for Planning Your Brewery Visit
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable brewery experience, keep these tips in mind:
- Check the brewery’s website for menus, hours, and special events. Many breweries offer online ordering and updated tap lists.
- Consider making reservations, especially on weekends or for larger groups.
- Designate a driver or utilize ride-sharing services to ensure safe transportation.
- Be prepared to try a variety of beers and food items. Ask the staff for recommendations and explore different pairings.
- Check their social media channels for daily specials, new beer releases, and updates.
- Many St. Louis breweries are dog friendly, check their policies before visiting with a furry friend.
- Look for happy hour deals for both beer and food, as they are a great way to sample a variety of offerings without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The St. Louis beer and food scene is thriving, with breweries increasingly recognizing the value of offering a complete dining experience. By combining excellent craft beer with thoughtfully prepared food, these breweries are creating destinations that appeal to both beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike. With so many St. Louis breweries offering both delicious beer and delectable food, there’s never been a better time to explore the city’s culinary scene and discover your new favorite brewery restaurant. So, grab a friend, explore the breweries mentioned, and uncover your own personal gems in the heart of St. Louis. Enjoy the brews, savor the bites, and celebrate the vibrant culinary landscape that this amazing city has to offer.
