Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. St. Louis

Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in University City

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Accessibility

34 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Herbie's restaurant
1. Herbie's
4.5
Awesome(2385)
Price: Moderate
• American • Clayton
Booked 18 times today
Herbie's is an American restaurant and bar inspired by the food & atmosphere of the French bistro as well as the cuisines of Italy, Asia, and the coastal American South. Our focus is on seasonal dishes with local ingredients, featuring rotating menus and daily specials with something to satisfy every palate. Renowned for our welcoming hospitality and gorgeous dining rooms & patios, we strive to make every guest feel at home, whether here for a business meeting, an intimate dinner, or any other occasion! We accept reservations online & over the phone. For parties larger than 6 guests, please email reservations@herbies.com with your name, party size, date, time, phone number, and any additional requests.To book an event, private room, or catering, please visit our website Herbies.com/private-events and fill out a contact form & a member of our team will respond promptly!We look forward to serving you soon!
A photo of The Crossing restaurant
2. The Crossing
4.9
Exceptional(2532)
Price: Very Expensive
• French • Clayton
Booked 18 times today
Featuring local "farm to table" cuisine using a breadth of farmers in the Missouri and Illinois communities. When asked to define of The Crossing, Owner/Executive Chef Jim Fiala often says that he is a chef that buys locally whenever possible and cooks as any French and/or Italian chef would given the ingredients sourced. Joining Jim is Chef Thu Rein Oo who brings passion and years of experience to the kitchen. Our food is fresh, organic (whenever possible), seasonal and by design very simple. The Crossing stays true to classic techniques and the chefs love showing off their skills and passion for elegant food.
A photo of Café Napoli restaurant
3. Café Napoli
4.8
Exceptional(2231)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Clayton
Booked 28 times today
Café Napoli is a family owned restaurant, established in 1989 by Tony and Kathy Pietoso. Quickly becoming a success, they moved the small basement restaurant to a larger location at the corner of Forsyth and Bemiston in the heart of Clayton. In 2003, sons Ande and Kye expanded their family restaurant by adding Bar Napoli, a swank cocktail lounge. A few years later, Napoli Reserve was added onto Bar Napoli allowing for private event space and an additional bar and lounge for the weekends. After years of a flourishing business, Kathy and Tony decided to take their ventures West to Town and Country where they opened their second location, Napoli2, managed by Ande. Kye has taken the reigns from his father and is now the front man for the 8,000 square foot establishment in Clayton. Café Napoli and Bar Napoli have recently undergone a face lift inside and out. Inside the kitchen, Executive Chef from Napoli2 Jon Berger was recently added to the team, bringing fresh ideas and innovation to the regional Italian specialties.
A photo of 801 Fish - STL restaurant
4. 801 Fish - STL
4.7
Exceptional(2135)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Clayton
Booked 17 times today
801 Fish offers only globally sourced finned fish and crustaceans from the world's most pristine waters. You'll find chef driven cuisine coupled with exemplary service in a sophisticated and modern aquatic atmosphere at the Clayton restaurant across the street from its sister, 801 Chophouse. In addition to our beautiful and social distanced dining room, we offer limited outdoor seating, available on a first come first served basis.
A photo of Charlie Gitto's 'On the Hill' restaurant
5. Charlie Gitto's 'On the Hill'
4.8
Exceptional(7063)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • The Hill
Booked 62 times today
Charlie Gitto's On the Hill is a landmark for fine Italian dining in The Hill neighborhood of St. Louis.
A photo of Louie's Wine Dive - Saint Louis restaurant
6. Louie's Wine Dive - Saint Louis
4.5
Awesome(459)
Price: Expensive
• Wine Bar • Clayton
Booked 22 times today
Louie's Wine Dive is an unpretentious wine bar where guests can try an assortment of wine and some delicious food to go with them. Come check out our wine board with rotating specialty wines and cocktails. Monday is all day happy hour and we do brunch on Saturday and Sunday. Thank you to all of our wonderful guests who make this place amazing. Please call to make a reservation for a party of 5 or more and limited reservations are available on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Walk ins are always welcome!
A photo of Brasserie by Niche restaurant
7. Brasserie by Niche
4.8
Exceptional(4137)
Price: Moderate
• French • St. Louis
Booked 63 times today
Brasserie by Niche is a neighborhood gem in St. Louis. Reviewers rave about its 'great service', 'perfect cozy French restaurant' ambiance, and consistently 'delicious' food. It's described as 'charming', 'quaint', and 'like ducking into a restaurant in Paris'. It's the go-to spot for French cuisine in the area and a favorite for special occasions. The staff is 'friendly and welcoming' and the atmosphere is 'energetic'. It's also loved for its 'just right cocktail' and 'absolutely delightful meal every time'.
A photo of Diego's Cantina restaurant
8. Diego's Cantina
4.6
Exceptional(471)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • University City
Booked 7 times today
Diego's Cantina is a neighborhood gem, known for its elevated Mexican cuisine in a casual yet beautiful atmosphere. It's praised for its excellent service, delicious food, and festive atmosphere. It's described as trendy, cozy, and has a warm and welcoming vibe. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. Reviews highlight the excellent food and service, and the ambiance, with one review even describing it as a 'casually posh environment' for date nights.
A photo of Acero restaurant
9. Acero
4.9
Exceptional(2722)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Maplewood
Booked 22 times today
Rustic Italian cuisine in the heart of Maplewood that features fresh ingredients from local farmers as well as an all Italian wine list.
A photo of Del Pietro's restaurant
10. Del Pietro's
4.9
Exceptional(1062)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Richmond Heights
Booked 21 times today
Del Pietro's is a casual affordable Italian restaurant serving fresh pastas, pizza, salads, antipasti, entrees, local beers, and a diverse wine list.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Lisa
    St. Louis •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Amazing dinner and had an amazing server, Todd! Can’t say enough about Suzanne, the manager. Her hospitality was superb. We will be back.
    More info
    Charlie Gitto's 'On the Hill'Price: Expensive• Italian• The Hill
    •
    4.8
  • Davidvip
    St. Louis •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Not inexpensive but a tremendous value because everything they do is top-notch without being pretentious or stuffy. The Crossing has long been on my short list of the best restaurants in St. Louis, but over the last few years it has really separated itself from the pack in my opinion and pretty much stands alone at this point, at least for what I'm looking for. Keep up the fantastic work!
    More info
    The CrossingPrice: Very Expensive• French• Clayton
    •
    4.9
  • Laya
    St. Louis •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Every thing we had was amazing! The beef Wellington was phenomenal! Also the short ribs were good just needed a bit more sauce and was a tad bit dry. Espresso martini 🍸 was a great choice it was the perfect balance! I can’t wait to try this place again!
    More info
    Herbie'sPrice: Moderate• American• Clayton
    •
    4.5
  • johnvip
    St. Louis •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    The food, service and atmosphere was outstanding. We were celebrating my mom's birthday and had a wonderful evening! Thank you to the entire team at Cafe Napoli! They always do a great job!!!
    More info
    Café NapoliPrice: Moderate• Italian• Clayton
    •
    4.8
  • Harry
    St. Louis •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 20, 2024
    Super friendly staff, especially our server "Bear L". Our first time back in about 2 yrs but we'll return sooner!
    More info
    801 Fish - STLPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Clayton
    •
    4.7

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in University City

Discover the hidden culinary delights of St. Louis in the charming neighborhoods of University City and Midtown, where "neighborhood gem" restaurants offer a unique and intimate dining experience. These local favorites stand out for their exceptional service, cozy atmospheres, and diverse menus that cater to a variety of tastes, including vegetarian and vegan options. Renowned for their commitment to quality and authenticity, these eateries provide a casually elegant environment perfect for everything from a casual meal to a special date night. Each restaurant in this area reflects the vibrant local culture and cuisine, promising an unforgettable dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. The dining scene in University City and Midtown is characterized by its eclectic mix of trendy and traditional establishments, making it a true gem for food enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the mood for innovative dishes or comforting classics, these neighborhood gems are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings with flair and finesse.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Open for Business Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo