St. Louis is a city known for many things, and for those that live in and around the Arch and Cardinal nation, food is a huge draw in. From new and upcoming venues to traditional chains that have been around for years, virtually any place a passersby steps in to won't disappoint. However, good food sometimes comes at a high price. Lucky for St. Louis visitors and residents, there are still many places for thrifty foodies to enjoy. For those hungry for new things but no desire to cash out, this list of restaurants will do the trick.
1. Gus' Pretzels
This stop satisfies the salty and sweet snackers alike. Brats and hot dogs? Pair a bag of pretzels with either. Every hand-made cinnamon-sugar or garlic-butter stick and twist can solve your hunger for less than five bucks.
2. Mission Taco Joint
908 Lafayette Ave.
Everyone loves good, cheap Mexican food. Especially tacos. Served street-style in a fun, art-filled environment, any taco, burrito, or torta served from la mesa is delicious as any.
3. Bailey's Range
920 Olive St.
This restaurant has it all. The largest burgers with an array of sauces and spices coupled with french fries seasoned with the same flavorful choices. And as if several ounces of beef didn't do the trick, house-made ice cream is served up front in scoop or shake form. Bailey's Range is a whole lot of yummy for just a handful of cash.
4. The Old Spaghetti Factory
727 North 1st St.
A classic 3 course meal is served in this rustic venue and while it is undoubtedly tasty, it is also some of the cheapest Italian food in the area. But don't let cost discount taste. With some of the creamiest house dressing, dozens of pasta favorites, and a final scoop of spumoni, this combination is famous for a reason.
5. Ted Drewe's Frozen Custard
4224 S. Grand Blvd.
Don't be discouraged by the long lines of ice cream lovers when driving up to this St. Louis favorite. For the amount of custard served in the bright yellow cups, it's easy to pass up a typical corner joint to wait in line for the upside-down flip. Trust the rumors, it is so worth it.
6. Yiro/Gyro
750 Locust St.
Like to custom-make your food Subway style? This gyro joint let's you craft your food, though whatever toppings or sauce you go with, the taste of Greece on the tip of your tongue will be matched with something better than may be expected from this restaurant. Oh and did I mention it's cheap?
7. Blues City Deli
2438 McNair Ave.
Po-Boy or Muffuletta anyone? While these are the most popular orders at BCD, any sandwich coupled with rice and beans is sure to satisfy. Set in a bluesy atmosphere on a corner street, live music often accompanies yummy, five dollar sandwiches.
8. Old Town Donut Shop
508 New Florissant Rd.
Many already have their favorite morning donut stop, but mixing things up to try Old Town's take on fried decadence will not disappoint. A dozen donuts for six bucks, who's complaining?
Of course there are many more stops in St. Louis that food lovers have got to try out, but these are among the best, especially for those on a budget. Enjoy!
