Introduction
St. Louis, Missouri, a city famed for its iconic Gateway Arch and vibrant cultural scene, also boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious culinary landscape. From comforting Midwest staples to globally inspired flavors, the city caters to every palate. However, the rising cost of eating out can be a significant barrier, especially for budget-conscious travelers, students, and residents alike. Who says you have to break the bank to enjoy a good meal? This article is your passport to discovering the best cheap food in St. Louis, proving that you can savor the city’s gastronomic offerings without emptying your wallet.
Forget expensive tasting menus and fancy restaurants. St. Louis offers an incredible variety of budget-friendly dining experiences, proving that deliciousness doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag. Prepare to explore hidden gems, local favorites, and culinary traditions, all while keeping your spending in check. From mouthwatering frozen custard to unique pizza creations, St. Louis offers a plethora of affordable options. So, grab your appetite and let’s embark on a culinary adventure to uncover the best cheap food in St. Louis.
Classic St. Louis on a Shoestring
No exploration of cheap food in St. Louis is complete without diving into the city’s iconic culinary classics. These beloved treats are not only deeply rooted in St. Louis culture but also remarkably affordable, making them perfect for satisfying your cravings without blowing your budget.
Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
First up is Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. This St. Louis institution is renowned for its incredibly thick and creamy frozen custard, served in generous portions that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you opt for a classic concrete (frozen custard blended with toppings) or a simple cup of vanilla, Ted Drewes offers a delightful and refreshing treat that won’t break the bank. A single concrete ranges from around five to eight dollars, offering a massive portion that could easily be shared. The atmosphere, the history, and of course, the creamy goodness of Ted Drewes are all part of the St. Louis experience.
Imo’s Pizza
Next on the list is Imo’s Pizza. Prepare yourself for a culinary experience unlike any other – St. Louis-style pizza. Characterized by its thin, cracker-like crust and unique Provel cheese (a blend of provolone, Swiss, and cheddar), Imo’s is a local institution. While a whole pizza might seem like a splurge, consider ordering a few slices or taking advantage of their lunch specials for a more budget-friendly option. A slice of Imo’s pizza can be found for around three dollars, making it an affordable and tasty lunch or snack. Imo’s truly provides a uniquely St. Louis culinary experience that even budget-conscious travelers can enjoy. The distinct flavor of Provel cheese and the crispy crust are instantly recognizable and represent a slice of St. Louis history.
Gooey Butter Cake
Last, but certainly not least, we have Gooey Butter Cake. This sinfully delicious dessert is a St. Louis original. A dense, buttery, and incredibly sweet cake, Gooey Butter Cake is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. While you can find variations of this treat all over town, some of the most popular spots include Park Avenue Coffee and various local bakeries. Individual slices of gooey butter cake are surprisingly affordable, often costing around three to five dollars. The intense sweetness and rich flavor make it a perfect pick-me-up, and a small slice is often enough to satisfy even the strongest sugar cravings. The unique texture and taste of gooey butter cake represent the sweet side of St. Louis culture.
Exploring Ethnic Flavors on a Budget
St. Louis is a melting pot of cultures, and this diversity is beautifully reflected in its culinary scene. Venturing beyond the classic St. Louis staples opens doors to a world of affordable and flavorful ethnic cuisine.
The Hill (Italian)
For Italian food lovers, a trip to The Hill is a must. This historically Italian neighborhood is packed with family-owned restaurants serving authentic and delicious dishes at reasonable prices. Check out Charlie Gittos on the Hill for generous portions of classic Italian-American fare. You can find affordable pasta dishes for under fifteen dollars, making it an excellent option for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal. The Hill offers a charming atmosphere, and the delicious aromas wafting from the restaurants are enough to tempt anyone. You’ll feel transported to Italy while enjoying a tasty meal in this historic neighborhood.
Vietnamese on Grand Ave
For those craving the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, head to Grand Avenue. This bustling street is home to numerous Vietnamese restaurants offering a wide range of affordable and authentic dishes. Pho Grand is a local favorite, serving steaming bowls of pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) for around ten dollars. Banh Mi, the Vietnamese sandwich, is another budget-friendly and incredibly delicious option, often costing around five to seven dollars. Exploring Grand Avenue is a culinary adventure in itself, with each restaurant offering its unique take on Vietnamese classics. The flavorful broth, fresh herbs, and tender meats of pho create a culinary experience that is both satisfying and affordable.
Mexican on Cherokee Street
If you’re in the mood for Mexican, Cherokee Street is the place to be. This vibrant street is lined with Mexican restaurants, taquerias, and bakeries, offering a delicious and affordable taste of Mexico. From tacos and burritos to enchiladas and tamales, you’ll find a wide variety of options to suit your taste and budget. Most tacos cost around two to three dollars each, allowing you to sample a variety of fillings without breaking the bank. The vibrant atmosphere of Cherokee Street, the aroma of spices, and the friendly service all contribute to a memorable and affordable culinary experience. Be sure to check out the local bakeries for sweet treats to complete your meal.
Scoring Deals: Lunch Specials and Happy Hour Havens
Beyond specific neighborhoods and culinary traditions, St. Louis offers a wealth of opportunities to score great deals on food throughout the day. Keep an eye out for restaurants offering enticing lunch specials and happy hour promotions.
The Gramophone
For a fantastic lunch special that won’t hurt your wallet, head over to The Gramophone in The Grove. While known for its live music in the evening, The Gramophone also offers a delicious and affordable lunch menu featuring gourmet sandwiches and salads. Their lunch specials often include a sandwich, side, and drink for around twelve dollars, making it a great value. The Gramophone’s relaxed atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Be sure to check out their daily specials for even more affordable options.
Pi Pizzeria Happy Hour
If you’re looking for a place to unwind after work and enjoy some tasty food and drinks at a discounted price, look no further than Pi Pizzeria. With several locations throughout the city, Pi Pizzeria offers a fantastic happy hour menu featuring discounted pizzas, appetizers, and drinks. Their happy hour runs from three to six on weekdays and provides a great opportunity to sample their deep-dish and thin-crust pizzas without breaking the bank. The lively atmosphere and delicious food make Pi Pizzeria a popular happy hour destination.
Delis and Markets
Don’t forget to check out local delis and markets for more affordable lunch options. Many offer pre-made sandwiches, salads, and soups at reasonable prices. Local markets often have ethnic foods that are premade and ready to go at a great price, so you should try one out. You can grab a quick and satisfying lunch without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Balancing Budgets and Free Activities: A St. Louis Adventure
St. Louis offers plenty of free activities to enjoy to balance out your eating experiences. This makes it easy to keep to a tight budget and still have a wonderful vacation.
Free St. Louis Activites
For example, the St. Louis City Museum is a fun way to spend the afternoon. The zoo is also free and is great for adults and kids alike! The Art Museum is another great free option.
Saving Strategies: Tips for Eating Cheap in St. Louis
To maximize your budget and enjoy the best cheap food in St. Louis, consider these helpful tips:
Lunch Specials
Many restaurants offer significantly discounted lunch menus compared to their dinner offerings. Take advantage of these deals to enjoy a delicious meal at a fraction of the cost.
Happy Hour
Explore the city’s happy hour scene and enjoy discounted appetizers, drinks, and even entrees. Happy hour is a great way to sample different restaurants and cuisines without overspending.
Home Cooking
While exploring the culinary scene is exciting, remember to incorporate home-cooked meals into your routine. Visit local farmers’ markets and grocery stores to stock up on affordable ingredients.
Sharing Meals
When dining out with friends or family, consider sharing dishes to reduce individual costs. Many restaurants offer generous portions that are easily shared.
Coupons and Discounts
Check online coupon websites and restaurant websites for discounts and promotions. Sign up for email newsletters to receive exclusive deals and offers.
Restaurant Rewards
Check out restaurant rewards programs to earn free rewards as you spend!
A Delicious Conclusion: St. Louis on a Budget
As you can see, St. Louis is a fantastic destination for food lovers on a budget. With its diverse culinary scene, affordable options, and wealth of free activities, the city offers something for everyone. From classic St. Louis staples to globally inspired flavors, you can explore the city’s culinary landscape without breaking the bank. By embracing lunch specials, happy hour deals, and other money-saving strategies, you can enjoy delicious and affordable meals throughout your stay.
So, pack your appetite, grab your friends, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure in St. Louis! Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path, explore hidden gems, and discover your own favorite cheap eats. The city’s diverse culinary scene offers endless opportunities to savor delicious food without emptying your wallet. Remember, eating well doesn’t have to be expensive – go explore the culinary delights of St. Louis!
