If you’ve ever wandered the Delmar Loop and marveled at its eclectic mix of restaurants and nightlife, you’ve experienced the vision of Joe Edwards. The longtime community champion has been instrumental in shaping the Loop into the cultural hotspot it is today, turning historic buildings into beloved destinations and nurturing local businesses along the way. He recently joined us on our podcast to share stories from his decades of work in St. Louis, so be sure to check out that episode for a firsthand look at the man behind the Loop. Below, check out five of his favorite restaurants around town.
Carl’s Drive‑In
“A double cheeseburger, fries and a root beer. It’s a St. Louis institution, and I feel like I am in the 1950s at their old‑time classic diner counter.”
9033 Manchester Road, Brentwood, 314.961.9652, carlsdrivein.com
Citizen Kane’s Steak House
“The filet mignon, mashed potatoes, creamed spinach and bearnaise sauce. Frank Kane and family have created such a cozy space in an historic old house and I always feel welcomed by them.”
133 W. Clinton Place, Kirkwood, 314.965.9005, citizenkanes.com
The Cakery
“I love when I go to dinner at someone’s house and they have a Cakery cake for dessert. I love their French vanilla cake with buttercream icing.”
1420 Tamm Ave., St. Louis, 314.647.6000, thecakerybakery.net
Eclipse Restaurant & the Rooftop Bar at the Moonrise Hotel
“At Eclipse I’ll get a steak with a salad and whatever sides the chef has on the menu. When I’m on the rooftop, I get a hot appetizer. I love the fries. You can’t beat the rooftop view of the whole city.”
6177 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314.721.1111, moonrisehotel.com/food‑drinks/eclipse‑restaurant
Pin‑Up Bowl
“Pin‑Up Bowl’s pizzas. I get cheese or pepperoni. I think they’re so good because they make them on the spot and they come out of the oven piping hot. Plus, you can bowl afterwards to work off the calories.”
6191 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, 314.727.5555, pinupbowl.com