Photos by Ella Manthey
Smoked barbecue, cold drinks, live music, and St. Louis sports define the experience at The Midwestern in Downtown St. Louis. The restaurant sits just a block west of Busch Stadium, but its appeal extends well beyond the pregame crowd.
The Midwestern combines a barbecue-themed menu with the energy of a lively sports bar, creating a space in that feels distinctly St. Louis: vibrant, fun, and focused on great food and drink.
Smoked meats anchor the food menu, alongside familiar bar favorites with a Midwestern twist, like the smoked-then-fried wings, brisket and pulled-pork sandwiches, brisket cheesesteak, and double smash burger. The barbecue nachos are particularly indulgent, piled high with beans, smoked poblano queso, white cheddar, candied jalapeños, house barbecue sauce, and a chipotle sour cream. Weekend brunch shifts the menu toward smoked hash, fried chicken and waffles, loaded breakfast potatoes, and biscuits with country gravy.
The setting is expansive and energetic, with more than 20 televisions lining the walls, a large bar, and a sunny patio. Live music adds to the ambiance here, particularly on weekends. Robust and welcoming, the vibe at The Midwestern can accommodate lunch, brunch, dinner, a pregame drink, or a late-night bite.
And that’s ultimately the restaurant’s charm: Here, you don’t have to choose between good food and a good time.
