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.

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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