In this episode of Arch Eats, George Mahe and Cheryl Baehr discuss the area's best new (and newish) restaurants. They reveal their own top five picks, as well as the restaurants they're most excited about for 2024. And with St. Louis' best new restaurants in mind, they reflect on the challenge of getting reservations at some of the hottest spots in town. ("As someone who has sat in a queue to buy 'Eras' tour tickets, these reservations can be that hard to come by," Cheryl says.) Listen to get pro tips for securing a table at in-demand hot spots. Follow Arch Eats on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever podcasts are available.

This episode is sponsored by Westport Plaza and The Magic House. Soda Fountain Express and 360 Westport are opening soon at Westport Plaza. Follow Westport Plaza on social media (@westportstl) to keep up with the latest.

Have an idea for a future Arch Eats episode? Send your thoughts or feedback to podcasts@stlmag.com.

Hungry for more? Subscribe to our Dining newsletters for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George (@georgemahe) and SLM on Instagram (@stlouismag).

Interested in being a podcast sponsor?  Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com.

Mentioned in this episode:
St. Louis Magazine's Best New Restaurants
SLM's most anticipated restaurants of 2024
Pizzeria da Gloria: 2024 Marconi, The Hill, 314-833-3734
Pastaria: 7734 Forsyth, Clayton, 314-862-6603
Mike’s Hot Honey
O+O Pizza: 102 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314-721-5422
Wright’s Tavern: 7624 Wydown, Clayton, 314-390-1466
Sado: 5201 Shaw, The Hill, 314-390-2883
Mainlander: 8 S. Euclid, Central West End
Levels Nigerian Cuisine: 1405 Washington, Downtown West, 314-571-9950
Bar Moro: 7610 Wydown, Clayton, 314-932-1088
Idol Wolf: 1528 Locust, Downtown West, 314-325-0360
Rose by Peno: 1463 S. 18th, Lafayette Square, 314-405-8500
Westchester: 127 Chesterfield Towne Center, Chesterfield, 636-778-0635
Napoli Sea: 1450 Beale, St. Charles, 636-800-2241
Katie’s Pizza & Pasta Osteria–Ballpark Village: 751 Clark, Downtown, 314-942-2416
Bistro La Floraison: 7637 Wydown, Clayton, 314-725-8880
Jalea: 323 N, Main, St. Charles, 314-303-0144
Sunday Best: 4101 Laclede. Central West End, 314-329-7696
Ivy Café: 14 N. Meramec, Clayton, 314-776-9377
Bowood by Niche: 4605 Olive, Central West End, 314-454-6868

In this episode of Arch Eats, <a href="https://www.stlmag.com/api/pv/oyHoG5lsA2SuTUR2DzFUceZ0SpjgBp1L2nUxOyIXo037CN7QlJIvzCrC5ORS6bl9/++/topics/george-mahe/">George Mahe</a> and <a href="https://www.stlmag.com/api/pv/oyHoG5lsA2SuTUR2DzFUceZ0SpjgBp1L2nUxOyIXo037CN7QlJIvzCrC5ORS6bl9/++/topics/cheryl-baehr/">Cheryl Baehr</a> discuss the area's <a href="https://www.stlmag.com/api/pv/oyHoG5lsA2SuTUR2DzFUceZ0SpjgBp1L2nUxOyIXo037CN7QlJIvzCrC5ORS6bl9/++/dining/best-new-restaurants/">best new (and newish) restaurants</a>. They reveal their own top five picks, as well as the <a href="http://www.stlmag.com/api/pv/oyHoG5lsA2SuTUR2DzFUceZ0SpjgBp1L2nUxOyIXo037CN7QlJIvzCrC5ORS6bl9/++/dining/most-anticipated-restaurants-in-st-louis/">restaurants they're most excited about for 2024</a>. And with St. Louis' best new restaurants in mind, they reflect on the challenge of getting reservations at some of the hottest spots in town. ("As someone who has sat in a queue to buy 'Eras' tour tickets, these reservations can be that hard to come by," Cheryl says.) Listen to get pro tips for securing a table at in-demand hot spots. Follow Arch Eats on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/arch-eats/id1714524378">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0BfUm30GQXcfuYAWqwrsYs?si=432aaa0abc5646a4">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cub21ueWNvbnRlbnQuY29tL2QvcGxheWxpc3QvNjMxNDcxOTItYzNkYy00YTNhLWFmNTEtYjBhNzAwZjRhYzhmLzlmYmY2OGRjLWZjZDktNGE5YS1iZTc0LWIwYWMwMTJmZDFiNi9iZDQxYzY5ZS1mOTM2LTQ2MGUtYmFmYS1iMGFjMDEzYWUzZGEvcG9kY2FzdC5yc3M?sa=X&amp;ved=0CAMQ4aUDahcKEwjg-oi6oLCCAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQBA">Google Podcasts</a>, or wherever podcasts are available.
<hr>
This episode is sponsored by <a href="https://www.westportstl.com/">Westport Plaza</a> and <a href="https://www.magichouse.org/">The Magic House</a>. Soda Fountain Express and 360 Westport are opening soon at Westport Plaza. Follow Westport Plaza on social media (@westportstl) to keep up with the latest.
Have an idea for a future Arch Eats episode? Send your thoughts or feedback to <a href="mailto:podcasts@stlmag.com">podcasts@stlmag.com</a>.
Hungry for more? Subscribe to our <a href="https://info.stlmag.com/newsletters">Dining newsletters</a> for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgemahe/">@georgemahe</a>) and SLM on Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/stlouismag/">@stlouismag</a>).
Interested in being a podcast sponsor?  Contact Lauren Leppert at <a href="mailto:lleppert@stlmag.com">lleppert@stlmag.com</a>.
Mentioned in this episode:
<ul>
<li>St. Louis Magazine's <a href="https://www.stlmag.com/api/pv/oyHoG5lsA2SuTUR2DzFUceZ0SpjgBp1L2nUxOyIXo037CN7QlJIvzCrC5ORS6bl9/++/dining/best-new-restaurants/">Best New Restaurants</a> </li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/api/pv/oyHoG5lsA2SuTUR2DzFUceZ0SpjgBp1L2nUxOyIXo037CN7QlJIvzCrC5ORS6bl9/++/dining/most-anticipated-restaurants-in-st-louis/">SLM's most anticipated restaurants of 2024</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.pizzeriadagloria.com/onlineordering">Pizzeria da Gloria</a>: 2024 Marconi, The Hill, 314-833-3734</li>
<li><a href="https://eatpastaria.com/stlouis/">Pastaria</a>: 7734 Forsyth, Clayton, 314-862-6603</li>
<li><a href="https://mikeshothoney.com/">Mike’s Hot Honey</a></li>
<li><a href="https://oandopizza.oohosp.com/">O+O Pizza</a>: 102 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314-721-5422</li>
<li><a href="https://www.wrightswydown.com/">Wright’s Tavern</a>: 7624 Wydown, Clayton, 314-390-1466</li>
<li><a href="https://www.sado-stl.com/">Sado</a>: 5201 Shaw, The Hill, 314-390-2883</li>
<li><a href="https://www.mainlanderstl.com/">Mainlander</a>: 8 S. Euclid, Central West End</li>
<li><a href="https://www.levelsstl.com/">Levels Nigerian Cuisine</a>: 1405 Washington, Downtown West, 314-571-9950</li>
<li><a href="https://bengelina.com/bar-moro">Bar Moro</a>: 7610 Wydown, Clayton, 314-932-1088</li>
<li><a href="https://idolwolfstl.com/">Idol Wolf</a>: 1528 Locust, Downtown West, 314-325-0360</li>
<li><a href="https://www.rosestl.com/">Rose by Peno</a>: 1463 S. 18th, Lafayette Square, 314-405-8500</li>
<li><a href="https://www.westchesterstl.com/">Westchester</a>: 127 Chesterfield Towne Center, Chesterfield, 636-778-0635</li>
<li><a href="https://www.napolistl.com/">Napoli Sea</a>: 1450 Beale, St. Charles, 636-800-2241</li>
<li><a href="https://katiespizzaandpasta.com/">Katie’s Pizza &amp; Pasta Osteria–Ballpark Village</a>: 751 Clark, Downtown, 314-942-2416</li>
<li><a href="https://www.bistrolafloraison.com/">Bistro La Floraison</a>: 7637 Wydown, Clayton, 314-725-8880</li>
<li><a href="https://www.jaleaperuvianbistro.com/">Jalea</a>: 323 N, Main, St. Charles, 314-303-0144</li>
<li><a href="https://www.sundaybestchicken.com/">Sunday Best</a>: 4101 Laclede. Central West End, 314-329-7696</li>
<li><a href="https://www.ivytartines.com/">Ivy Café</a>: 14 N. Meramec, Clayton, 314-776-9377</li>
<li><a href="https://www.ivytartines.com/">Bowood by Niche</a>: 4605 Olive, Central West End, 314-454-6868</li>
</ul>

Get the inside dish on the St. Louis dining scene. Join St. Louis Magazine dining editor George Mahe and dining critic Cheryl Baehr to learn about the latest and greatest restaurants, including what’s going on behind the scenes, the backstories, insider tips, and more. Discover the things you didn’t even know you should know about the local restaurant scene.

Get the inside dish on the St. Louis dining scene. Join St. Louis Magazine dining editor George Mahe and dining critic Cheryl Baehr to learn about the latest and greatest restaurants, including what’s going on behind the scenes, the backstories, insider tips, and more. Discover the things you didn’t even know you should know about the local restaurant scene.

Arch Eats

Best New Restaurants in STL

This year’s look ahead at the St. Louis restaurant scene is filled with anticipation, optimism—and some really big breaking news. In this episode, George and Cheryl look ahead to 2026’s most anticipated restaurants, including two concepts from the Central West End’s most prominent proprietor that are sure to light up the neighborhood, a high-end hookah lounge and restaurant with elevated hospitality, a sophomore effort from one of St. Louis’ brightest culinary stars, a new concept from an acclaimed restaurateur, and the reemergence of a beloved South Grand institution. Check out the inside scoop from George and Cheryl to see why there’s so much to get excited about in 2026.

→ Editors’ Note: After this podcast episode was recorded, Natasha and Hamishe Bahrami informed SLM that the new restaurant will not be called Cafe Natasha; instead, it will operate under The Gin Room, the existing cocktail bar at the same address.

This episode is sponsored by Herbie’s and Kingside Diner. Are you planning a holiday party, company happy hour, or special celebration? Make it unforgettable with help from Herbie’s & Kingside Diner. With customizable menus, beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, and a dedicated events coordinator, they make planning and celebrating effortless and enjoyable. They even offer catering delivery in select areas! Book your private event at Herbie’s or Kingside Diner today.

New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing!

Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts.

Have an idea for a future Arch Eats episode? Send your thoughts or feedback by emailing podcasts@stlmag.com.

Hungry for more? Subscribe to our Dining newsletters for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George (@georgemahe) and SLM on Instagram (@stlouismag).

Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com.

Mentioned in this episode:
Edera: 48 Maryland Plz, CWE, 314-361-7227
The Yale Bar: 7120 Yale, Richmond Heights
The Mexican Barrel House: 1085 N. Mason, Creve Coeur
Katie’s: 9635 Watson, Crestwood
Lona’s Lil Eats: 612 W. Woodbine, Kirkwood
ELEVATION By. K. RENA: 3307 Washington, Midtown
The Noble Crown: 300 N. Euclid, CWE
The Marvel S. Fox: 2 Maryland Plaza, CWE
Kishimoto Mendo: 6394 Delmar, Delmar Loop
Cibo Italia: 7489 Delmar, University City
Gamlin’s Maplewood: 2704 Sutton, Maplewood
Baia: 4199 Manchester, The Grove
Chico Bueno: 3942-A Laclede, CWE
The Taco Turko Bar: 415 N. Tucker, downtown 
Nico’s Bakery: 415 N. Tucker, downtown
Salonika: 415 N. Tucker, downtown
Clandestino’s Speakeasy: 415 N. Tucker, downtown
Corner Vinyl Café: 415 N. Tucker, downtown
The Wash Ave Food Hall:1122 Washington, downtown
Gigi: 7645 Wydown, Clayton
Café Natasha: 3200 S. Grand, Tower Grove South
Linea: 1001 Washington, downtown
Lineage: location TBD
Elaia: 5162 Delmar, Delmar Maker District
Olio: 5162 Delmar, Delmar Maker District
Esca Vino & Spuntino: 5090 Delmar, Delmar Maker District

You may also enjoy these SLM articles:
Arch Eats: Mispronounced St. Louis Restaurants
Arch Eats: First Look: Sakatanoya Revolving Sushi & Ramen Bar
Arch Eats: Mother-daughter Hamishe and Natasha Bahrami on Family & Food
The most anticipated restaurants in metro St. Louis
Hamishe Bahrami returns, bringing Cafe Natasha’s Persian classics to The Gin Room
10 St. Louis dining trends to watch in 2026
More episodes of Arch Eats

This year&rsquo;s look ahead at the St. Louis restaurant scene is filled with anticipation, optimism&mdash;and some really big breaking news. In this episode, George and Cheryl look ahead to 2026&rsquo;s most anticipated restaurants, including two concepts from the Central West End&rsquo;s most prominent proprietor that are sure to light up the neighborhood, a high-end hookah lounge and restaurant with elevated hospitality, a sophomore effort from one of St. Louis&rsquo; brightest culinary stars, a new concept from an acclaimed restaurateur, and the reemergence of a beloved South Grand institution. Check out the inside scoop from George and Cheryl to see why there&rsquo;s so much to get excited about in 2026.
&rarr;&nbsp;Editors&rsquo; Note:&nbsp;After this podcast episode was recorded, Natasha and Hamishe Bahrami&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/hamishe-bahrami-returns-bringing-cafe-natashas-persian-classics-to-the-gin-room/">informed</a>&nbsp;SLM&nbsp;that the new restaurant will not be called Cafe Natasha; instead, it will operate under The Gin Room, the existing cocktail bar at the same address.
This episode is sponsored by Herbie&rsquo;s and Kingside Diner.&nbsp;Are you planning a holiday party, company happy hour, or special celebration? Make it unforgettable with help from Herbie&rsquo;s &amp; Kingside Diner. With customizable menus, beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces, and a dedicated events coordinator, they make planning and celebrating effortless and enjoyable. They even offer catering delivery in select areas! Book your private event at&nbsp;<a href="https://herbies.com/private-events/">Herbie&rsquo;s</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://kingsidediner.com/private-events/">Kingside Diner</a>&nbsp;today.
New to podcasts?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/">Follow these instructions</a>&nbsp;to start listening to our shows, and hear what you&rsquo;ve been missing!
Want more?&nbsp;Check out all of&nbsp;St. Louis Magazine&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/">podcasts</a>.
Have an idea for a future&nbsp;Arch Eats&nbsp;episode?&nbsp;Send your thoughts or feedback by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:podcasts@stlmag.com">podcasts@stlmag.com</a>.
Hungry for more?&nbsp;Subscribe to&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href="https://info.stlmag.com/newsletters">Dining newsletters</a>&nbsp;for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George&nbsp;(<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgemahe/">@georgemahe</a>) and&nbsp;SLM&nbsp;on Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/stlouismag/">@stlouismag</a>).
Interested in being a podcast sponsor?&nbsp;Contact Lauren Leppert at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lleppert@stlmag.com">lleppert@stlmag.com</a>.
Mentioned in this episode:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://ederastl.com/">Edera</a>:&nbsp;48 Maryland Plz, CWE, 314-361-7227</li>
<li><a href="https://parkerstable.com/">The Yale Bar</a>:&nbsp;7120 Yale, Richmond Heights</li>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mexicanbarrelhouse/">The Mexican Barrel House</a>:&nbsp;1085 N. Mason, Creve Coeur</li>
<li><a href="https://katies.com/">Katie&rsquo;s</a>:&nbsp;9635 Watson, Crestwood</li>
<li><a href="https://lonaslileats.com/">Lona&rsquo;s Lil Eats</a>:&nbsp;612 W. Woodbine, Kirkwood</li>
<li>ELEVATION By. K. RENA:&nbsp;3307 Washington, Midtown</li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/two-new-dining-concepts-opening-at-euclid-and-maryland-in-the-central-west-end/">The Noble Crown</a>:&nbsp;300 N. Euclid, CWE</li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/two-new-dining-concepts-opening-at-euclid-and-maryland-in-the-central-west-end/">The Marvel S. Fox</a>:&nbsp;2 Maryland Plaza, CWE</li>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/kishimoto_stl/">Kishimoto Mendo</a>:&nbsp;6394 Delmar, Delmar Loop</li>
<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ciboitaliastl/">Cibo Italia</a>:&nbsp;7489 Delmar, University City</li>
<li><a href="https://www.gamlinsmaplewood.com/">Gamlin&rsquo;s Maplewood</a>:&nbsp;2704 Sutton, Maplewood</li>
<li>Baia:&nbsp;4199 Manchester, The Grove</li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/chico-bueno-good-company-five-course-mezcal-pairing-dinner/">Chico Bueno</a>:&nbsp;3942-A Laclede, CWE</li>
<li><a href="https://tacoturkobar.com/">The Taco Turko Bar</a>:&nbsp;415 N. Tucker, downtown&nbsp;</li>
<li><a href="https://nicosbakery.com/">Nico&rsquo;s Bakery</a>:&nbsp;415 N. Tucker, downtown</li>
<li><a href="https://thesalonikarestaurant.com/">Salonika</a>:&nbsp;415 N. Tucker, downtown</li>
<li><a href="https://clandestinosbar.com/">Clandestino&rsquo;s Speakeasy</a>:&nbsp;415 N. Tucker, downtown</li>
<li><a href="https://cornervinylcafe.com/">Corner Vinyl Caf&eacute;</a>:&nbsp;415 N. Tucker, downtown</li>
<li><a href="https://washavefh.com/">The Wash Ave Food Hall</a>:1122 Washington, downtown</li>
<li>Gigi:&nbsp;7645 Wydown, Clayton</li>
<li><a href="https://www.cafenatasha.com/">Caf&eacute; Natasha</a>:&nbsp;3200 S. Grand,&nbsp;Tower Grove South</li>
<li><a href="https://www.tai-davis.com/lineage">Linea</a>:&nbsp;1001 Washington, downtown</li>
<li><a href="https://www.tai-davis.com/lineage">Lineage</a>:&nbsp;location TBD</li>
<li><a href="https://bengelina.com/elaia">Elaia</a>:&nbsp;5162 Delmar, Delmar Maker District</li>
<li><a href="https://bengelina.com/olio">Olio</a>:&nbsp;5162 Delmar, Delmar Maker District</li>
<li>Esca Vino &amp; Spuntino:&nbsp;5090 Delmar, Delmar Maker District</li>
</ul>
You may also enjoy these&nbsp;SLM&nbsp;articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/episode-26/">Arch Eats:&nbsp;Mispronounced St. Louis Restaurants</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/episode-54/">Arch Eats:&nbsp;First Look: Sakatanoya Revolving Sushi &amp; Ramen Bar</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/episode-40/">Arch Eats:&nbsp;Mother-daughter Hamishe and Natasha Bahrami on Family &amp; Food</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/hamishe-bahrami-returns-bringing-cafe-natashas-persian-classics-to-the-gin-room/">The most anticipated restaurants in metro St. Louis</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/hamishe-bahrami-returns-bringing-cafe-natashas-persian-classics-to-the-gin-room/">Hamishe Bahrami returns, bringing Cafe Natasha&rsquo;s Persian classics to The Gin Room</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/dining-predictions-st-louis/">10 St. Louis dining trends to watch in 2026</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/">More episodes of&nbsp;Arch Eats</a></li>
</ul>

St. Louis’ Most Anticipated Restaurants of 2026

It’s mid-December, which means that it’s time for George and Cheryl to take a look at the year in restaurants. In this episode, the co-hosts chat about their favorite new dining spots for 2025. They’ll cover all the fun additions to the St. Louis food and beverage scene, including a new Italian-inflected amaro bar, an Instagram pizza business-turned brick and mortar, a hotly anticipated restaurant from two pop-up pros and more. Plus, they’ll rank their Top 5 best new restaurants, which was done by consensus, but not without controversy. Listen and follow Arch Eats on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever podcasts are available.

New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing!

Want more? Check out all of St. Louis Magazine’s podcasts.

Have an idea for a future Arch Eats episode? Send your thoughts or feedback by emailing podcasts@stlmag.com.

Hungry for more? Subscribe to our Dining newsletters for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George (@georgemahe) and SLM on Instagram (@stlouismag).

Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com.

Mentioned in this episode:

KoKuu Ramen & Sushi Bar: 343 S. Kirkwood, Kirkwood, 314-698-2231 
Madrina: 101 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314-963-1976 
Citizen Kane’s: 133 W. Clinton, Kirkwood 314-965-9005
O’Connell’s Pub: 4652 Shaw, The Hill, 314-773-6600
The Piccadilly at Manhattan: 7201 Piccadilly, Ellendale, 314-646-0016
Sam’s Steakhouse: 10205 Gravois, Affton, 314-849-3033 
Brasas: 6138 Delmar Blvd, Delmar Loop 314-256-1937 
Lucy Quinn (Lucy Q) /Little Lucy: 4156 Manchester, The Grove 314-932-5829
Aperi: 4317 Manchester, The Grove, 314-405-8333
No Ordinary Rabbit: 1621 Tower Grove, Botanical Heights, 314-696-2010  
Robin: 7268 Manchester, Maplewood, 314-712-6124
Expat BBQ: 3730 Foundry Way #132, Midtown, 314-924-9728
Cottle Village Farmstead & Distillery: 6470 State Route N, Cottleville, 636-268-2123
Sauci Pasta: 1990 1st Capitol, St Charles, 636-757-3307
Great Heart Brewing: 9514 Olive, Olivette, 314-557-7188
Mestiza Tacos & Cantaritos: 3279 Hampton, Clifton Heights, 314-645-7676
Pavilion (inside Sado): 5201 Shaw, The Hill, 314-390-2883
Mainlander: 392 N Euclid, CWE, no listed phone
Nicky Slice: 2240 Edwards, The Hill, no listed phone
The Mexican STL: 9615 Watson, Crestwood, 314-525-5025
Nettie’s Pizza Den: 33 N. Central, Clayton, 314-571-9305 
Extra Wavy: 2017 Chouteau, Downtown West, 314-346-1165
Scout’s: 2704 Locust, Midtown, 314-394-8650

You may also enjoy these SLM articles:
The best new restaurants in St. Louis
More episodes of Arch Eats
Robin named one of America’s best restaurants by ‘The New York Times’

It&rsquo;s mid-December, which means that it&rsquo;s time for George and Cheryl to take a look at the year in restaurants. In this episode, the co-hosts chat about their favorite new dining spots for 2025. They&rsquo;ll cover all the fun additions to the St. Louis food and beverage scene, including a new Italian-inflected amaro bar, an Instagram pizza business-turned brick and mortar, a hotly anticipated restaurant from two pop-up pros and more. Plus, they&rsquo;ll rank their Top 5 best new restaurants, which was done by consensus, but not without controversy. Listen and follow&nbsp;Arch Eats&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGkvOXGJHENgtHtcRMnGPVFW">YouTube</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0BfUm30GQXcfuYAWqwrsYs?si=432aaa0abc5646a4">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/arch-eats/id1714524378">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;or wherever podcasts are available.
New to podcasts?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/">Follow these instructions</a>&nbsp;to start listening to our shows, and hear what you&rsquo;ve been missing!
Want more?&nbsp;Check out all of&nbsp;St. Louis Magazine&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/">podcasts</a>.
Have an idea for a future&nbsp;Arch Eats&nbsp;episode?&nbsp;Send your thoughts or feedback by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:podcasts@stlmag.com">podcasts@stlmag.com</a>.
Hungry for more?&nbsp;Subscribe to&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href="https://info.stlmag.com/newsletters">Dining newsletters</a>&nbsp;for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George&nbsp;(<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgemahe/">@georgemahe</a>) and&nbsp;SLM&nbsp;on Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/stlouismag/">@stlouismag</a>).
Interested in being a podcast sponsor?&nbsp;Contact Lauren Leppert at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lleppert@stlmag.com">lleppert@stlmag.com</a>.
Mentioned in this episode:
<a href="http://www.kokuuramen.com/">KoKuu Ramen &amp; Sushi Bar</a>: 343 S. Kirkwood, Kirkwood, 314-698-2231&nbsp; <a href="https://www.madrinastl.com/">Madrina</a>:&nbsp;101 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314-963-1976&nbsp; <a href="https://citizenkanes.com/">Citizen Kane&rsquo;s</a>:&nbsp;133 W. Clinton, Kirkwood 314-965-9005 <a href="https://oconnellspub.net/">O&rsquo;Connell&rsquo;s Pub</a>:&nbsp;4652 Shaw, The Hill, 314-773-6600 <a href="https://www.thepiccadilly.com/">The Piccadilly at Manhattan</a>:&nbsp;7201 Piccadilly, Ellendale, 314-646-0016 <a href="https://www.samssteakhouse.com/">Sam&rsquo;s Steakhouse</a>:&nbsp;10205 Gravois, Affton, 314-849-3033&nbsp; <a href="https://brasas-stl.com/">Brasas</a>:&nbsp;6138 Delmar Blvd, Delmar Loop 314-256-1937&nbsp; <a href="https://www.littlelucyquinn.com/">Lucy Quinn (Lucy Q) /Little Lucy</a>: 4156 Manchester, The Grove 314-932-5829 <a href="https://www.aperistl.com/">Aperi</a>:&nbsp;4317 Manchester, The Grove, 314-405-8333 <a href="https://noordinaryrabbitstl.com/">No Ordinary Rabbit</a>:&nbsp;1621 Tower Grove, Botanical Heights, 314-696-2010&nbsp;<a href="https://noordinaryrabbitstl.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a> <a href="https://www.robinrestaurant.com/">Robin</a>:&nbsp;7268 Manchester, Maplewood, 314-712-6124 <a href="https://expatstl.com/">Expat BBQ</a>:&nbsp;3730 Foundry Way #132, Midtown, 314-924-9728 <a href="https://cottlevillage.com/">Cottle Village Farmstead &amp; Distillery</a>: 6470 State Route N, Cottleville, 636-268-2123 <a href="https://www.saucipasta.com/">Sauci Pasta</a>: 1990 1st Capitol, St Charles, 636-757-3307 <a href="https://www.greatheartbrewing.com/">Great Heart Brewing</a>: 9514 Olive, Olivette, 314-557-7188 <a href="https://www.mestizastl.com/">Mestiza Tacos &amp; Cantaritos</a>: 3279 Hampton, Clifton Heights, 314-645-7676 <a href="https://www.sado-stl.com/">Pavilion</a>&nbsp;(inside Sado): 5201 Shaw, The Hill, 314-390-2883 <a href="https://www.mainlanderstl.com/">Mainlander</a>: 392 N Euclid, CWE, no listed phone <a href="https://nickyslices.square.site/">Nicky Slice</a>: 2240 Edwards, The Hill, no listed phone <a href="https://themexicanstl.com/">The Mexican STL</a>: 9615 Watson, Crestwood, 314-525-5025 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nettiespizzaden/">Nettie&rsquo;s Pizza Den</a>: 33 N. Central, Clayton, 314-571-9305&nbsp; <a href="https://www.extrawavystl.com/">Extra Wavy</a>: 2017 Chouteau, Downtown West, 314-346-1165 <a href="https://scouts.toast.site/">Scout&rsquo;s</a>: 2704 Locust, Midtown, 314-394-8650
You may also enjoy these&nbsp;SLM&nbsp;articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/best-new-restaurants/">The best new restaurants in St. Louis</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/">More episodes of&nbsp;Arch Eats</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/robin-named-one-of-americas-best-restaurants-by-the-new-york-times/">Robin named one of America&rsquo;s best restaurants by &lsquo;The New York Times&rsquo;</a></li>
</ul>

St. Louis’ Hottest New Restaurants of 2025

Move over, Mariah! St. Louis has its own Queen of Christmas. George and Cheryl are thrilled to be joined by Julie “Fa La La” Lally, the city’s resident expert on holiday pop-ups, who shares everything you need to know to enjoy these festive fetes. From the first-ever holiday pop-up, Miracle, in 2016 to the brand-new Cocktails and Claws, Julie has been to them all and shares the inside scoop on what makes each one unique, as well as tips and tricks on how to get in, which ones are great for families and what, in her opinion, makes the perfect one. With 30 different choices this year, it’s essential listening to guarantee a season filled with holiday cheer. Listen and follow Arch Eats on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever podcasts are available.

This episode is sponsored by The Key Burger Bar & Boogie and supported by the Delmar Loop. The Key Burger Bar & Boogie is a pitch-perfect place where the music plays, the game is always on, and the dance floor is open—your new neighborhood hang in Grand Center. Stop in for a smashburger and stay for the drinks. Visit thekeystl.com for more info.

New to podcasts? Follow these instructions to start listening to our shows, and hear what you’ve been missing!

Have an idea for a future Arch Eats episode? Send your thoughts or feedback by emailing podcasts@stlmag.com.

Hungry for more? Subscribe to our Dining newsletters for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George (@georgemahe) and SLM on Instagram (@stlouismag).

Interested in being a podcast sponsor? Contact Lauren Leppert at lleppert@stlmag.com.

 

Mentioned in this episode:

Downtown/Midtown:
Cozy at The Garage: 750 S. 4th, 314-532-2012 – New in 2025.
The Floating Sleigh on the Tom Sawyer riverboat: 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan, 877-982-1410. – New in 2025.
Santa’s Speakeasy at Hidden Gems: 3118 Locust, 314-925-8931
Sleigh Shed at Union Station: 201 S. 18th, 314-923-3949
Tinsel Tavern at Ballpark Village: 601 Clark, 314-797-7530
Up on the Rooftop at 360d: One South Broadway, 314-241-8439
Weirdly Wonderful Holidays at City Museum: 750 N. 16th, 314-231-2489
Winterfest at Kiener Plaza: 500 Chestnut, 314-289-5300

Soulard:
Bevo Fox Den Speakeasy Pop-Up at A-B Brewery Lights – 1200 Lynch, 314-577-2626 – New in 2025.
Lit at Molly’s: 816 Geyer, 314-241-6200
Rum & Mistletoe at Calypso: 1026 Geyer,  314-448-1516

Grand Center/CWE:
Merry Moves at St. Louis Chess Club: 4652 Maryland, 314-361-2437
Moose Mug Lounge at The Art Bar at Angad Arts Hotel: 3550 Samuel Shepard, 314-561-0033
Wrapped at Cocina Latina in CWE: 508 N. Euclid, – New in 2025!


Delmar Maker District:
CANE at Steve’s Hot Dogs Delmar: 3145 S. Grand – New in 2025.
The Ice Fountain at Fountain on Delmar: 5242 Delmar, 314-226-9269 – New in 2025.

Clayton/Maplewood:
The Chalet at Le Meridien St. Louis Clayton: 7730 Bonhomme, 314-863-0400
*Polar Patio Pop-Up at Side Project Brewing: 2657 Lyle, 

South City:
Frosted at Tower Grove Park: 4257 Northeast, 314-771-2679
Miracle at Small Change: 2800 Indiana
Sippin’ Santa at Planter’s House: 1000 Mississippi, 314-696-2603

Webster/Kirkwood/Frontenac:
Cocktails & Claws at 4 Hands + Peacemaker Kirkwood: 150 W. Argonne – New in 2025!
Shack the Halls: 731 S. Lindbergh (Shack), 314-736-5900
Winter WINEderland at Robust Wine Bar: 227 W. Lockwood, 314-963-0033

West County/St. Charles County:
Bling at The Wolf Cafe: 15480 Clayton, Ballwin, 636-527-7027
Bormio at Noto: 5105 Westwood, Suite A, Saint Peters, 636-244-0874 
Dasher’s Dive Bar in New Town: 3544 Galt House, Saint Charles, 314-575-2240
Toasted Chestnut in Cottleville: 5546 Chestnut, Cottleville, 636-720-1905
Up on the Rooftop 360 Westport: 111 West Port Plaza, Suite 1200, 314-683-2337

Other mentions:
12 Bars of Charity: Together Credit Union Plaza, Ballpark Village
Salume Beddu: 7118 Oakland, 314-645-2050
Steve’s Hot Dogs
O+O Pizza: 102 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314-721-5422
Public School House: 5546 Chestnut. Cottleville, 636-720-1905

You may also enjoy these articles:
Over 25 holiday pop-up bars in St. Louis
“Winter WINEderland” returns to Robust Bistro & Wine Bar
Your ultimate guide to family-friendly holiday activities in St. Louis
Arch Eats: Home (or not) for the holidays
Arch Eats: STL’s Most Delicious Holiday Traditions
More episodes of Arch Eats

Move over, Mariah! St. Louis has its own Queen of Christmas. George and Cheryl are thrilled to be joined by Julie &ldquo;Fa La La&rdquo; Lally, the city&rsquo;s resident expert on holiday pop-ups, who shares everything you need to know to enjoy these festive fetes. From the first-ever holiday pop-up, Miracle, in 2016 to the brand-new Cocktails and Claws, Julie has been to them all and shares the inside scoop on what makes each one unique, as well as tips and tricks on how to get in, which ones are great for families and what, in her opinion, makes the perfect one. With 30 different choices this year, it&rsquo;s essential listening to guarantee a season filled with holiday cheer. Listen and follow&nbsp;Arch Eats&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwYnyrcREHGkvOXGJHENgtHtcRMnGPVFW">YouTube</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0BfUm30GQXcfuYAWqwrsYs?si=432aaa0abc5646a4">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/arch-eats/id1714524378">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;or wherever podcasts are available.
This episode is sponsored by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thekeystl.com/">The Key Burger Bar &amp; Boogie</a>&nbsp;and supported by the&nbsp;<a href="http://visittheloop.com/">Delmar Loop</a>.&nbsp;The Key Burger Bar &amp; Boogie is a pitch-perfect place where the music plays, the game is always on, and the dance floor is open&mdash;your new neighborhood hang in Grand Center. Stop in for a smashburger and stay for the drinks. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thekeystl.com/">thekeystl.com</a>&nbsp;for more info.
New to podcasts?&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/how-to-listen/">Follow these instructions</a>&nbsp;to start listening to our shows, and hear what you&rsquo;ve been missing!
Have an idea for a future&nbsp;Arch Eats&nbsp;episode?&nbsp;Send your thoughts or feedback by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:podcasts@stlmag.com">podcasts@stlmag.com</a>.
Hungry for more?&nbsp;Subscribe to&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href="https://info.stlmag.com/newsletters">Dining newsletters</a>&nbsp;for the freshest coverage on the local restaurant and culinary scene. And follow George&nbsp;(<a href="https://www.instagram.com/georgemahe/">@georgemahe</a>) and&nbsp;SLM&nbsp;on Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/stlouismag/">@stlouismag</a>).
Interested in being a podcast sponsor?&nbsp;Contact Lauren Leppert at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lleppert@stlmag.com">lleppert@stlmag.com</a>.
<hr>
&nbsp;
Mentioned in this episode:
Downtown/Midtown: <a href="https://www.thegaragestl.com/event-details/cozy-christmas-bar-2025-11-28-17-00">Cozy at The Garage</a>: 750 S. 4th, 314-532-2012 &ndash; New in 2025. <a href="https://www.gatewayarch.com/about/arch-events/event/the-floating-sleigh-12-4-2025/">The Floating Sleigh on the Tom Sawyer riverboat</a>: 50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan, 877-982-1410. &ndash; New in 2025. <a href="https://shopgoldengems.com/pages/santas-speakeasy?srsltid=AfmBOooTk5PGgNOlEUcaBYezuXxNe-Ve8mes8_a-UYizRujnM0q6DrjB">Santa&rsquo;s Speakeasy at Hidden Gems</a>: 3118 Locust, 314-925-8931 <a href="https://www.trainshed-stl.com/the-sleigh-shed/">Sleigh Shed at Union Station</a>: 201 S. 18th, 314-923-3949 <a href="https://stlballparkvillage.com/eat-and-drink/tinsel-tavern">Tinsel Tavern at Ballpark Village</a>: 601 Clark, 314-797-7530 <a href="https://www.360-stl.com/event/up-on-the-rooftop/">Up on the Rooftop at 360d</a>: One South Broadway, 314-241-8439 <a href="https://citymuseum.org/event/ww-holidays/">Weirdly Wonderful Holidays at City Museum</a>: 750 N. 16th, 314-231-2489 <a href="https://www.archpark.org/events/winterfest">Winterfest at Kiener Plaza</a>: 500 Chestnut, 314-289-5300
Soulard: <a href="https://www.budweisertours.com/any-road#id=brewery-lights-speakeasy-2025-st-louis">Bevo Fox Den Speakeasy Pop-Up at A-B Brewery Lights</a>&nbsp;&ndash; 1200 Lynch, 314-577-2626 &ndash; New in 2025. <a href="https://www.mollysinsoulard.com/lit">Lit at Molly&rsquo;s</a>: 816 Geyer, 314-241-6200 <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ornament-at-calypso-tickets-1972832616463">Rum &amp; Mistletoe at Calypso</a>: 1026 Geyer,&nbsp; 314-448-1516
Grand Center/CWE: <a href="https://worldchesshof.org/program/2025-11-28-merry-moves-2025/">Merry Moves at St. Louis Chess Club</a>: 4652 Maryland, 314-361-2437 <a href="https://www.angadartshotel.com/event/moose-mug-lounge-2/">Moose Mug Lounge at The Art Bar at Angad Arts Hotel</a>: 3550 Samuel Shepard, 314-561-0033 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DQfPuoPAUCG/">Wrapped at Cocina Latina in CWE</a>: 508 N. Euclid, &ndash; New in 2025!
 Delmar Maker District: <a href="https://www.steveshotdogsstl.com/news/cane-holiday-pop-up">CANE at Steve&rsquo;s Hot Dogs Delmar</a>: 3145 S. Grand &ndash; New in 2025. <a href="https://www.findmeatthefountain.com/">The Ice Fountain at Fountain on Delmar</a>: 5242 Delmar, 314-226-9269 &ndash; New in 2025. Clayton/Maplewood: <a href="https://cafelaviestlouis.com/event/the-chalet/">The Chalet at Le Meridien&nbsp;St. Louis Clayton</a>: 7730 Bonhomme, 314-863-0400 <a href="https://www.sideprojectbrewing.com/blogs/news/polar-patio-pop-up?srsltid=AfmBOopWDCWlgx3Z18A0eHv5KM2iix3EOgjtt-IUsbDGqhENdT97AT3Y">*Polar Patio Pop-Up at Side Project Brewing</a>: 2657 Lyle,&nbsp;
South City: <a href="http://towergrovepark.org/frosted">Frosted at Tower Grove Park</a>: 4257 Northeast, 314-771-2679 <a href="https://www.drinkchristmas.com/">Miracle at Small Change</a>: 2800 Indiana <a href="https://www.exploretock.com/plantershouse/">Sippin&rsquo; Santa at Planter&rsquo;s House</a>: 1000 Mississippi, 314-696-2603
Webster/Kirkwood/Frontenac: <a href="https://www.4handsbrewery.com/4-hands-kirkwood">Cocktails &amp; Claws at 4 Hands&nbsp;+ Peacemaker Kirkwood</a>: 150 W. Argonne &ndash; New in 2025! <a href="https://www.shackthehalls.com/">Shack the Halls</a>: 731 S. Lindbergh (Shack), 314-736-5900 <a href="https://www.opentable.com/booking/experiences-availability?rid=54751&amp;restref=54751&amp;experienceId=584106&amp;utm_source=external&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=shared">Winter WINEderland at Robust Wine Bar</a>: 227 W. Lockwood, 314-963-0033
West County/St. Charles County: <a href="https://thewolfstl.com/bling/">Bling at The Wolf Cafe</a>: 15480 Clayton, Ballwin, 636-527-7027 <a href="https://www.bormiostl.com/">Bormio at Noto</a>: 5105 Westwood, Suite A, Saint Peters, 636-244-0874&nbsp; <a href="https://dashersdivebar.com/">Dasher&rsquo;s Dive Bar in New Town</a>: 3544 Galt House, Saint Charles, 314-575-2240 <a href="https://www.publicschoolhouse.com/event-details-registration/toasted-chestnut-christmas-pop-up-bar">Toasted Chestnut in Cottleville</a>: 5546 Chestnut, Cottleville, 636-720-1905 <a href="https://www.360-stl.com/event/up-on-the-rooftop-2/">Up on the Rooftop 360 Westport</a>: 111 West Port Plaza, Suite 1200, 314-683-2337
Other mentions: <a href="https://12barsofcharity.com/st-louis/">12 Bars of Charity</a>: Together Credit Union Plaza, Ballpark Village <a href="https://www.salumebeddu.com/">Salume Beddu</a>: 7118 Oakland, 314-645-2050 <a href="https://www.steveshotdogsstl.com/">Steve&rsquo;s Hot Dogs </a><a href="https://oandopizza.oohosp.com/">O+O Pizza</a>: 102 W. Lockwood, Webster Groves, 314-721-5422 <a href="https://www.publicschoolhouse.com/">Public School House</a>: 5546 Chestnut. Cottleville, 636-720-1905
<hr>
You may also enjoy these articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/holiday-pop-up-bars-and-events-in-st-louis/">Over 25 holiday pop-up bars in St. Louis</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/dining/winter-winederland-returns-to-robust-bistro-wine-bar/">&ldquo;Winter WINEderland&rdquo; returns to Robust Bistro &amp; Wine Bar</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/family/family-friendly-holiday-activities-in-st-louis/">Your ultimate guide to family-friendly holiday activities in St. Louis</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/episode-4/">Arch Eats:&nbsp;Home (or not) for the holidays</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/episode-31/">Arch Eats:&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/episode-31/">STL&rsquo;s Most Delicious Holiday Traditions</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.stlmag.com/podcasts/arch-eats/">More episodes of&nbsp;Arch Eats</a></li>
</ul>

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