Dining Options in Frontenac, Missouri—and the Surrounding Area: A 360-Degree Culinary Guide


Frontenac, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) Frontenac, Missouri, is often described as refined, polished, and understated—and its dining scene reflects those same qualities. While the city itself is small, it sits at the center of one of the most established restaurant corridors in the St. Louis region. When Frontenac restaurants are viewed alongside nearby dining destinations in Ladue, Town and Country, Des Peres, and Creve Coeur, the result is a deep, diverse, and highly reliable culinary landscape.


Rather than competing with trend-driven entertainment districts, this part of west St. Louis County has built a reputation for longevity, service, and consistency. Restaurants here succeed by earning trust over time. For residents, business professionals, and visitors alike, this area offers a dining ecosystem that prioritizes quality over novelty and comfort over spectacle.

Dining Options - Frontenac as the Anchor of an Upscale Dining Corridor


Frontenac’s dining options are primarily concentrated along Clayton Road and South Lindbergh Boulevard, with Plaza Frontenac serving as the city’s culinary centerpiece. The area benefits from thoughtful development, easy access, and an atmosphere that encourages relaxed dining rather than hurried turnover.


Many diners consider Frontenac the natural starting point for meals tied to shopping at Plaza Frontenac, meetings, or social gatherings, then expand outward into nearby communities for additional variety. This geographic positioning allows Frontenac to punch well above its weight as a dining destination.

Dining Options - Modern American and Upscale Casual Dining in Frontenac


At the core of Frontenac’s food scene are polished American restaurants that balance familiarity with refinement.


801 Local exemplifies this approach. With a menu built around seasonal ingredients and well-executed American classics, it offers an elevated experience without being formal. Its versatility makes it equally suitable for date nights, group dinners, or professional meals.


Another anchor is BrickTop's, a longtime favorite known for consistency and broad appeal. BrickTop’s has become a dependable choice for business lunches, family dinners, and celebratory occasions. Its success illustrates the Frontenac preference for restaurants that deliver the same high standard every visit.


Inside the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac, The Provinces provides hotel-based dining that appeals to travelers and locals alike. Offering breakfast through dinner, it serves as a key option for meetings, quiet meals, and early-day dining.

Dining Options - Italian Dining: A Regional Strength


Italian cuisine is one of the strongest culinary pillars in and around Frontenac. Within the city, Brio Italian Grille offers a Tuscan-inspired setting with a menu of pastas, flatbreads, and Italian comfort dishes presented in a modern style. Its upscale ambiance makes it a frequent destination for evening dining.


More casual Italian favorites include Sugo's Spaghetteria and Grassi's Ristorante & Deli. These establishments emphasize traditional recipes, generous portions, and familiarity—qualities that resonate strongly with long-time residents.


Just beyond Frontenac, Italian dining expands further. Café Napoli is widely regarded as one of the region’s premier Italian restaurants, known for its energetic atmosphere and expansive menu. It attracts diners from across the metro area and is often considered part of the extended Frontenac dining experience.

Dining Options - Health-Focused and Contemporary Options


Modern dining preferences have also influenced Frontenac. Flower Child represents the shift toward lighter, customizable meals that prioritize fresh ingredients and dietary flexibility. Popular for lunch and early dinners, it reflects changing expectations among professionals and families alike.


This category has grown steadily as diners seek meals that balance indulgence with nutrition, particularly during the workweek.

Dining Options - Tex-Mex and Social Dining Experiences


Frontenac also supports lively, social restaurants that contrast with its quieter fine dining options. Uncle Julio's brings bold flavors, shareable plates, and a festive atmosphere to the area. It is especially popular for group outings, family celebrations, and casual nights out.


The success of this restaurant style demonstrates that even in a refined market like Frontenac, there is strong demand for energetic dining environments when executed at a high level.

Dining Options - Daytime Dining and Café Culture


Frontenac’s daytime dining scene is shaped by shopping and professional activity. Mariposa, located within Plaza Frontenac, caters to shoppers and professionals seeking a calm, polished lunch setting. Its daytime focus complements the city’s evening-oriented restaurants and supports dining throughout the day.


This café-style dining culture reinforces Frontenac’s reputation as a place where meals are meant to be enjoyed without rush.

Dining Options - Expanding Outward: Ladue’s Fine Dining Influence


Immediately east of Frontenac, Ladue adds another layer of culinary sophistication. Kreis' Steakhouse stands out as one of the region’s most respected steakhouses, offering classic service, traditional preparation, and an atmosphere built around timeless fine dining.


Also in Ladue, Truffles provides an intimate, upscale dining experience that appeals to diners seeking elegance and privacy. These restaurants reinforce the broader area’s reputation for refined, service-driven dining.

Dining Options - Town and Country and Des Peres: Variety and Volume


West of Frontenac, Town and Country, and Des Peres expand the range of dining options while maintaining similar standards. In addition to Café Napoli, these areas are home to upscale American restaurants, wine-focused dining rooms, and destination eateries that draw patrons from across the county.


A standout example is J. Gilbert's Wood-Fired Steaks & Seafood, which blends classic steakhouse fare with a modern setting. Its popularity underscores demand for high-quality, protein-driven menus paired with comfortable, contemporary interiors.

Dining Options - Creve Coeur and Ballwin: International and Sushi Options


To the north and west, Creve Coeur and Ballwin introduce more international flavors into the extended Frontenac dining scene. Nippon Tei is frequently cited as one of the region’s top destinations for Japanese cuisine, offering sushi and traditional dishes in a refined setting.


These restaurants round out the area’s offerings, ensuring diners can access global flavors without traveling far from Frontenac.

Dining Options - A Dining Culture Defined by Stability


Across Frontenac and its surrounding communities, one theme remains consistent: longevity. Restaurants here are not designed to chase trends or rely on novelty. Instead, they focus on execution, service, and relationships. Many have operated successfully for decades, supported by repeat customers who value reliability.


This stability benefits both diners and operators. Customers know what to expect, while restaurants can invest in staff, training, and long-term quality rather than constant reinvention.

Dining Options - Why the Frontenac Area Remains a Dining Destination


Taken together, Frontenac and its neighboring communities form one of the most dependable dining regions in the St. Louis area. The restaurants here may not generate headlines for experimentation, but they excel at delivering consistent, high-quality experiences in comfortable settings.


Whether the goal is a business lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a relaxed meal after shopping, the Frontenac area offers options that feel intentional and refined. Its dining scene mirrors the character of the community itself—measured, established, and quietly confident.


Related articles published on St. Louis Restaurant Review:

A Review of Kreis’ Steakhouse & Bar – St. Louis


801 Local Establishes Itself as a Cornerstone


Balkan Goods Reopens in Chesterfield With New Ownership

© 2025 - St. Louis Media, LLC d.b.a. St. Louis Restaurant Review. All Rights Reserved. Content may not be republished or redistributed without express written approval. Portions or all of our content may have been created with the assistance of AI tools, such as Gemini or ChatGPT, and are reviewed by our human editorial team. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, head to St. Louis Restaurant Review. https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/dining-options-in-frontenac-missouri/

A Classic That Still Delivers: A Review of Kreis' Steakhouse & Bar - Premier St. Louis Steakhouse Since 1948


ST. LOUIS, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) In a dining landscape where trends come and go with dizzying speed, there is something deeply reassuring about a restaurant that knows exactly what it is—and has the confidence to stay that way. Kreis’ Steakhouse & Bar, located along Lindbergh Boulevard in St. Louis, is one of those places. It doesn’t chase gimmicks, rebrand every few years, or try to reinvent the steakhouse. Instead, it quietly continues to do what it has done for generations: serve classic steaks, generous portions, and polished hospitality in a setting that feels both familiar and refined.


Walking into Kreis’ feels like stepping into a St. Louis institution rather than simply another restaurant. The atmosphere is unmistakably old-school steakhouse: white tablecloths, warm lighting, dark wood accents, and a dining room that encourages conversation rather than spectacle. This is not a loud or flashy space. It’s designed for people who want to linger over dinner, enjoy a well-made cocktail, and savor food that is prepared with care rather than shortcuts.

Kreis' Steakhouse online ratings and reviews as of February 1, 2026, are as follows:

Google - 4.5 Stars with more than 1.5K online customer ratings and reviews


Facebook - Page Not Set Up for Ratings and Reviews


Yelp - 4.0 with more than 400 online customer ratings and reviews - a great rating for Yelp


TripAdvisor - 4.5 Bubbles with 345 online customer ratings and reviews - Rated #1 out of seven restaurants in the Frontenac neighborhood


STL.Directory - 5 Stars with one online customer rating and review


OpenTable - 4.8 Stars with 780 online customer ratings and reviews

Kreis' Steakhouse & Bar - Atmosphere and First Impressions


From the moment you enter, Kreis’s communicates a sense of calm confidence. The dining room is spacious but intimate, with enough separation between tables to allow for private conversation—something increasingly rare in modern restaurants. Jackets are not required, but many guests dress as if the evening matters, and that tone carries throughout the room. Business dinners, anniversaries, birthdays, and long-overdue reunions all feel equally at home here.


The bar area offers a slightly livelier energy without losing the restaurant’s composed feel. It’s the kind of bar where a properly stirred martini arrives cold and balanced, and where bartenders still understand the importance of timing, glassware, and restraint. This is a place where cocktails are meant to complement the meal, not compete with it.

Kreis' Steakhouse & Bar - Service That Respects the Guest


Service at Kreis’ Steakhouse is professional, attentive, and refreshingly unhurried. Servers are knowledgeable without being rehearsed and helpful without hovering. There is an understanding here that a good steakhouse meal is an experience that unfolds at its own pace.


Menus are explained clearly, specials are described with confidence, and questions are answered honestly. If you’re deciding between cuts or wondering about portion sizes, the staff offers guidance based on experience rather than upselling. Courses arrive with proper spacing, giving diners time to enjoy each dish without feeling rushed or forgotten.


This level of service is increasingly rare and speaks to the restaurant’s long-standing commitment to hospitality as a craft, not just a function.

The Menu: Tradition Done Right


Kreis’ menu reads like a greatest-hits collection of classic steakhouse offerings, and that is precisely its strength. Rather than overwhelming diners with endless options, the menu focuses on executing familiar dishes exceptionally well.


Steaks are the clear centerpiece. Cuts are well-chosen, cooked precisely to temperature, and presented without unnecessary distractions. Whether you prefer a filet mignon, a New York strip, or another traditional cut, the emphasis is on quality beef, proper seasoning, and expert grilling. The exterior is seared to develop flavor, while the interior remains tender and juicy.


The prime rib, long considered a signature offering, deserves its reputation. Served in generous portions, it arrives deeply flavorful, properly rested, and accompanied by classic accompaniments that enhance rather than overshadow the meat. It is the kind of dish that reminds you why prime rib became a steakhouse staple in the first place.


Seafood options provide a welcome variety for those who want something lighter or simply prefer surf over turf. These dishes maintain the same straightforward approach—fresh ingredients, clean preparation, and balanced flavors—ensuring they feel like a natural part of the menu rather than an afterthought.

Sides That Matter


A great steakhouse is defined as much by its sides as by its steaks, and Kreis’s understands this well. Side dishes are generous, shareable, and rooted in tradition. Potatoes arrive in familiar forms—baked, mashed, or otherwise—prepared with care and richness. Vegetables are cooked properly, retaining flavor and texture without being overly complicated.


These sides are not designed to steal attention; they are meant to complete the meal. They do exactly what they should: complement the protein, add balance to the plate, and contribute to the overall satisfaction of a well-rounded dinner.

Desserts and Finishing Touches


Dessert at Kreis’ continues the theme of classic comfort. Rather than experimental presentations, desserts lean toward familiar favorites done well. Portions are generous enough to share, and each option feels like a fitting conclusion rather than an obligatory extra.


Coffee is served hot and fresh, providing a natural pause at the end of the meal. It’s a small detail, but one that reinforces the restaurant’s attention to the full dining experience—from first drink to final sip.

Consistency Over Trends


What truly sets Kreis’ Steakhouse apart is consistency. In an era where many restaurants reinvent themselves constantly, Kreis’ has built its reputation on reliability. Guests return knowing exactly what they will receive: quality food, professional service, and an environment that respects the occasion.


That consistency builds trust. It’s why longtime patrons continue to return and why new diners often feel as though they’ve discovered a place that has been quietly waiting for them all along. Kreis does not need to follow trends because it already understands its audience and delivers what they value.

Who It’s Best For


Kreis’ Steakhouse is ideal for diners who appreciate tradition, value conversation, and want a meal that feels deliberate and complete. It’s particularly well-suited for special occasions, business dinners, and anyone seeking a refined but comfortable night out.


This is not a place for rushed meals or novelty-driven dining. It’s for people who enjoy the ritual of dining out—ordering a drink, sharing appetizers, discussing menu choices, and savoring each course as it arrives.

Final Thoughts


Kreis’ Steakhouse & Bar stands as a reminder that excellence doesn’t always require reinvention. Sometimes, it requires dedication to fundamentals, respect for the guest, and pride in doing things the right way, year after year.


In a city with an increasingly diverse dining scene, Kreis remains a cornerstone of classic St. Louis dining. It offers a dining experience rooted in tradition, elevated by professionalism, and sustained by consistency. For those who appreciate a true steakhouse—one that values quality over novelty and hospitality over hype—Kreis’ Steakhouse continues to earn its place at the table.

© 2025 - St. Louis Media, LLC d.b.a. St. Louis Restaurant Review. All Rights Reserved. Content may not be republished or redistributed without express written approval. Portions or all of our content may have been created with the assistance of AI tools, such as Gemini or ChatGPT, and are reviewed by our human editorial team. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, head to St. Louis Restaurant Review. https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/review-kreis-steakhouse-bar-st-louis/

801 Local Establishes Itself as a Cornerstone of Upscale Casual Dining in Frontenac


FRONTENAC, MO (StLouisRestaurantReview) Frontenac is a community that values consistency, quality, and refinement, and 801 Local has quietly but confidently positioned itself as a restaurant that reflects those priorities. Since opening in early 2022, the restaurant has become a dependable dining destination for residents, professionals, and visitors seeking an elevated experience without the formality often associated with fine dining.


Located along South Lindbergh Boulevard, 801 Local blends polished service, a thoughtfully constructed menu, and a strong bar program into a concept that feels both modern and comfortably familiar. It is not designed to chase trends or novelty, but rather to serve as a reliable neighborhood restaurant that guests can return to again and again.

A Concept Built for the Community


The idea behind 801 Local is rooted in approachability. While the restaurant is operated by an experienced multi-market hospitality group, the Frontenac location was intentionally designed to feel local rather than corporate. The atmosphere, menu structure, and service style all reinforce that goal.


The dining room strikes a balance between upscale and inviting. Contemporary finishes are paired with warm tones, comfortable seating, and an open layout that creates energy without feeling overwhelming. Booths, table seating, and bar seating allow the space to function equally well for business lunches, date nights, group dinners, and casual drinks.


During peak hours, the restaurant often has a lively buzz, reflecting its role as a social gathering place rather than a quiet, special-occasion venue. That sense of activity has become part of its appeal.

Ownership and Operations


The Frontenac restaurant operates under 801 Grill STL LLC, a Kansas-based operating entity associated with a broader Midwest restaurant group known for polished, full-service dining concepts. Structuring the business through a dedicated LLC for the St. Louis market allows the restaurant to manage local licensing, staffing, and compliance while maintaining consistent operational standards.


This approach has proven effective in delivering a smooth guest experience. From kitchen execution to front-of-house service, the restaurant reflects systems built for long-term sustainability rather than short-term buzz.

The Menu: Comfort with Refinement


The menu at 801 Local focuses on modern American cuisine with a strong emphasis on familiarity and execution. Rather than pushing experimental flavors or niche techniques, the kitchen prioritizes well-known dishes prepared with care and consistency.


Guests will find a menu that includes:

Steak and beef-forward entrées cooked to order


Seafood selections designed to appeal to a broad audience


Comfort dishes elevated through quality ingredients


Appetizers intended for sharing, especially during happy hour

The menu's structure makes it accessible to diners with diverse preferences. Groups with mixed tastes can order confidently, knowing there are options that satisfy both traditional and adventurous palates.


Consistency is one of the restaurant’s strongest assets. Repeat guests often return to the same dishes, confident that the experience will match their previous visits. That reliability has helped establish long-term loyalty among Frontenac diners.

A Bar Program That Anchors the Experience


While the food menu draws guests in, the bar keeps many of them coming back. 801 Local places a clear emphasis on its cocktail and beverage program, treating the bar as a central feature rather than an afterthought.


The bar offers:

A well-curated selection of bourbons and whiskeys


Classic cocktails prepared with balance and precision


Seasonal specialty drinks that rotate throughout the year


A wine list designed to complement the menu rather than overshadow it

Happy hour has become a key part of the restaurant’s rhythm. Professionals from nearby offices, shoppers finishing their day, and local residents frequently gather at the bar for drinks and shared plates. The result is a space that feels social and relaxed without losing its polished edge.

Service That Matches the Setting


Service at 801 Local follows a professional, guest-focused model. Staff are attentive, knowledgeable, and trained to read the table, whether guests are dining quickly during a lunch meeting or settling in for a longer evening.


The service pace is one of the restaurant’s strengths. Meals feel neither rushed nor delayed, and staff are proactive without being intrusive. This balance is particularly important in a market like Frontenac, where diners often expect efficiency alongside refinement.


The result is a dining experience that feels smooth and predictable, an increasingly valuable quality in today’s restaurant landscape.

Location and Accessibility


Situated on South Lindbergh Boulevard, 801 Local benefits from excellent visibility and accessibility. Its location near retail centers, office buildings, and residential neighborhoods makes it a convenient choice for a wide range of dining occasions.


Parking availability and straightforward access further reinforce the restaurant’s role as a practical, go-to option rather than a destination requiring planning or compromise. This ease of access plays a significant role in repeat business and weekday traffic.

Standing Out in the St. Louis Dining Scene


In a region known for its diverse and competitive restaurant market, 801 Local has carved out a clear identity. It does not attempt to compete with chef-driven tasting menus or nightlife-focused concepts. Instead, it appeals to diners who value quality, consistency, and comfort.


Its niche is defined by:

Upscale casual dining without pretension


A dependable menu built around familiar favorites


A strong bar program that encourages social gathering


Professional service designed for repeat guests

This positioning has allowed the restaurant to thrive in a suburban market that favors reliability over spectacle.

Why 801 Local Resonates


The success of 801 Local is rooted in discipline. Rather than relying on trends or marketing gimmicks, the restaurant focuses on fundamentals: solid food, well-crafted drinks, attentive service, and an inviting atmosphere.


For Frontenac diners, that approach aligns perfectly with local expectations. Guests know what they are getting when they walk through the door, and that trust has translated into steady traffic and strong word-of-mouth.


As the St. Louis restaurant industry continues to evolve, concepts like 801 Local demonstrate lasting value in getting the basics right—and delivering them consistently.





© 2025 - St. Louis Media, LLC d.b.a. St. Louis Restaurant Review. All Rights Reserved. Content may not be republished or redistributed without express written approval. Portions or all of our content may have been created with the assistance of AI tools, such as Gemini or ChatGPT, and are reviewed by our human editorial team. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, head to St. Louis Restaurant Review. https://stlouisrestaurantreview.com/801-local-establishes-cornerstone/