Rick Lewis, chef-owner of Grace Meat + Three in the Grove and the newly opened Grace Chicken + Fish in Crestwood, knows a thing or two about good food. Although he’s been busy lately and hasn’t tried a lot of the newer spots around town, he has a few old standbys he relies on. Below, check out his top five St. Louis restaurants. And don’t miss his episode on The Sauce podcast that aired earlier this week.
Bolyard’s Meat & Provisions
“I love that family and the delicious eats. Go-to: a round of burgers for the family and a mess of charcuterie and pickles, plus kombuchas.”
2733 Sutton Blvd., Maplewood, bolyardsmeat.com
Peacemaker Lobster & Crab Co.
“The wife and I love to smash some shellfish on date nights. Go-to: lobster rolls, seafood towers, more peel and eat shrimp, soft-serve with magic shell.”
Multiple locations, peacemakerlobstercrab.com
Mai Lee
Everything on the menu is so comforting; almost as good as a hug from Qui. Go-to: salt and pepper calamari and shaking beef with a crepe on the side, plus iced coffees.”
8396 Musick Memorial Drive, Brentwood, maileestl.com
That’sa Nice’a Pizza
“It delivers to our home and makes the whole family happy. Go-to: John’s fave sausage, pepperoni, extra cheese, tomatoes and bacon and some toasted raviolis.”
Multiple locations, thatsaniceapizza.com
Nathaniel Reid Bakery
“It’s delicious and Des Peres park is nearby, so it makes a fun day with the family. Go-to: We like to window shop here and order more than we can possibly eat.”
11243 Manchester Road, Kirkwood, nrbakery.com