Restaurants

Dining overview

St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) offers 31 dining and grab-and-go options, ranging from quick coffee and custard to full-service bars and sit-down meals. Highlights include Mike Shannon's Grill (steaks, sandwiches, and a full bar; $$–$$$), Ted Drewes Frozen Custard (iconic “concretes”; $), and build-your-own pies at Pizza Studio ($$). You’ll also see travel essentials and snack stops like Hudson, Tech On The Go, and Luxe, plus 25 more options clustered around the main concourses—especially across Terminal 2’s A, C, and E gate areas where most restaurants sit post-security.

Before vs. after security

Landside (before security) dining is limited. In Terminal 1, you’ll find Starbucks (Lower Level; $; daily roughly 6am–6pm) and Missouri Vineyards (Upper Level near Exit 6; wine/beer/cocktails and snacks; $$; weekdays about 9:30am–5pm). For the best variety, head airside: Terminal 2 has the broadest mix of restaurants across A, C, and E gates. For last-minute bites near the gates, look for Starbucks (multiple concourses), Midtown Cafe (pastries/donuts; $), and quick-service counters like Pei Wei (Pan-Asian; $$) and Shake Shack (burgers and shakes; $$; hours can vary).

Traveler-specific recommendations

• Families: Burger-and-fries favorites like Shake Shack and St. Louis Burger ($$) are easy with kids; diner-style meals at Kingside Diner ($$) typically suit picky eaters. Many airport restaurants can provide high chairs—ask the host.
• Business travelers: For a calmer, longer meal and a drink, try Mike Shannon’s Grill or craft-beer spots like Budweiser Brew House ($$) and Urban Chestnut ($$). Wine and light bites at Vino Volo ($$) work well for quick meetings.
• Budget travelers: Stick to Starbucks, Midtown Cafe, and custard at Ted Drewes (often the best-value treat). Ask any counter for free tap water to avoid bottled drink costs.
• Dietary needs: Vegetarian-friendly choices are easiest at Pei Wei and salad-forward menus at pubs/diners; gluten-free availability varies by location—ask for allergen info. For halal or kosher needs, options are limited; plan for packaged items and confirm ingredients on-site.

Practical dining tips

For pre-6am departures, look post-security for early-opening staples like Budweiser Brew House (often from 5am) and Starbucks and Midtown Cafe locations that open around 4–4:30am. For late arrivals, many bars run until the last departure, and Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is available via 24-hour vending machines in multiple concourses (A/C/E). If you’re rushing, choose grab-and-go from coffee counters or shops like Hudson. STL’s free WiFi makes it easy to work while you eat, and seating near gate areas often has power—business travelers should aim for sit-down venues or gate-adjacent cafés for the best shot at outlets.

Local flavors to try

Don’t leave STL without a Ted Drewes “concrete”, a St. Louis classic. For a strong local pairing, try the 4 Hands Brewing–Peacemaker collaboration (craft beer with seafood like lobster rolls and po’boys; $$–$$$). These spots deliver the most distinct “St. Louis” taste you’ll find inside the airport.