Original Source: The Riverfront Times
In a recent accolade for the St. Louis dining scene, a local tea shop has made waves by securing the No. 3 spot on USA Today’s prestigious “Top 100 Budget Eats” list. Teatopia, nestled on Cherokee Street, has captured hearts and taste buds alike with its exceptional loose-leaf tea offerings and tea-infused smoothies.
But Teatopia isn’t the only St. Louis gem to earn recognition on this coveted list. Blues City Deli, the beloved sandwich haven in Benton Park, earned an impressive No. 6 spot. The acclaimed Bosnian fast-casual spot in Webster Groves, Balkan Treat Box, secured the No. 13 spot, while Eovaldi’s, the charming sandwich shop on the Hill, landed at No. 44. These four establishments have achieved a remarkable feat, considering the list was narrowed down from a staggering 28,000 restaurants across the United States.
The rankings on this list are based on Google ratings, a testament to the genuine acclaim these establishments have received from their patrons. To make the cut, restaurants had to carry a wallet-friendly “one dollar sign” designation on Google’s cost scale and accumulate over 200 reviews. St. Louis itself boasts an impressive average rating of 4.716, placing it among the top 10 cities for highly ranked budget-friendly dining experiences. This score is only a hair’s breadth away from New York City, the leader with a rating of 4.762.
In addition to individual restaurants, USA Today also evaluated fast-food chains, providing insight into the preferences of local diners. The top fast-food chains in St. Louis, according to their analysis, are as follows: Chick-fil-A, Raising Cane’s Chicken, Noodles and Company, Jet’s Pizza, and Dairy Queen. However, with dining options as exceptional as Blues City Deli and Balkan Treat Box available, one might question the taste of those who opt for fast-food chains.
It’s evident that St. Louis has firmly established its culinary presence on the national stage, with local establishments showcasing their dedication to quality and flavor. As these restaurants continue to garner recognition, both residents and visitors are reminded of the rich gastronomic landscape that the city has to offer. All credit goes to The Riverfront Times for initially sharing this delightful piece of news that highlights the prowess of St. Louis’ dining scene.
