Advanced Sommelier Alisha Blackwell-Calvert, a 2025 James Beard Foundation Award semifinalist, is one of St. Louis’s most decorated wine pros. She previously shaped programs at now-closed Cinder House, Elaia and Olio (a new Olio location is forthcoming) and currently leads the beverage experience at Italian-American standout Madrina in Webster Groves. Her deep knowledge, playful curiosity and ability to elevate any glass to a moment make this list a true reflection of the city’s most compelling places to eat, drink and savor.
Wright’s Tavern (Box Hill Group)
“I’m a huge fan of Louie and Box Hill Grocer since day one. Jordy and Coco rule hospitality and are completely dialed into their guests. However, when it comes to my preference, Wright’s Tavern has my heart! From the dimmed, intimate lighting, staff that goes above and beyond, and food I crave the moment I wake up, Wright’s is where I spend the most time of my life outside of home and work. Rightfully so. Wright’s Tavern is everything I desire from a dining experience, like I’ve teleported to a big city.”
7624 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, wrightswydown.com
Sado
“Nick Bognar paves the way for invention and taking a step ‘outside the box’ in St. Louis. I loved Indo upon its inception, and I still dream about Nick’s khao soi. Sado wraps up a variety of decadent bites in one experience with his omakase experience. I love to be taken on a culinary trip bite by bite.”
5201 Shaw Ave., St. Louis, sado-stl.com
Stews Food & Liquor
“An instant morale boost once you walk through the door! Stews is a fun place to grab a great cocktail and delicious fare.”
1862 S. 10th St., St. Louis, stewsstl.com
33 Wine Shop & Bar
“Definitely a staple when I want to share a great bottle of wine with a friend, or grabbing a glass when I need some relaxation.”
1913 Park Ave., St. Louis, 33wine.com
Mai Lee
“I swear the food at Mai Lee has rejuvenating properties. I’m a fan of #12, the pho tai bo vien with a splash of sriracha. Vietnamese coffee is also a must.”
8396 Musick Memorial Drive, Brentwood, maileestl.com
Balkan Treat Box
“Loryn and Edo Nalic are two of my favorite people in the industry. Their food at Balkan Treat Box is about as comforting as it gets. The pide is a must try; however, I gravitate to the lahmacun with beef, a spicy wood-fired flatbread rolled with love and flavor.”
8103 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves, balkantreatbox.com
Lona’s Lil’ Eats
“The smoked turkey wrap is phenomenal paired with the spicy sesame sauce. The hot tea selection is worth exploring.”
2199 California Ave., St. Louis, lonaslileats.com
Platypus
“Whether I’m in the mood for a well-made classic or want to be adventurous with spirits I haven’t seen before, Platypus always delivers on a fantastically prepared cocktail. My favorite night to visit is Monday for some spirited karaoke. The atmosphere is always lively and I’m bound to run into someone I know.”
4501 Manchester Ave., St. Louis, drinkplatypus.com
Bar Moro
“Sleek and cozy elegance! I’m a huge fan of the tinned fish menu and shaved jamon iberico. I keep it simple with red vermouth on the rocks with a splash of club soda with a twist of orange in true Spanish style.”
7610 Wydown Blvd., Clayton, bengelina.com/bar-moro
Paul Manno’s Restaurant
“Paul Manno’s has been on my husband and I’s short list for a romantic date night for the 15 years we’ve been together. The veal dishes are my go-to and starting with a tomato stack salad is non-negotiable. Old school feel with consistency.”
75 Forum Shopping Center, Chesterfield, paulmannos.com