20 Best Restaurants in St. Joseph, MO

Blake Walsh

Jul 23, 2023 • 18 min read

APN Photography / shutterstock.com

From affordable local joints serving comfort food to high-end establishments offering gourmet cuisine, there's a delightful array of restaurants that cater to a variety of palates.

Get ready as I take you on a gastronomic journey through the best restaurants in St. Joseph, Missouri.

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How this article was written: Our team first analyzed the scores and feedback across major platforms like Google Maps, Yelp, and Trip Advisor, considering not only the ratings but also the consistency of positive feedback. Following this, we conducted interviews with over 30 local residents who have been to these restaurants to gather authentic, first-hand experiences. You can read more about our research process here.

While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in St. Joseph that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.

Hank and Aces BBQ

I must admit, there's nothing that quite compares to the comfort and familiarity of my regular spot, Hank and Aces BBQ.

Nestled in the heart of St Joseph, it's the kind of place that instantly warms you up with its welcoming ambiance and the rich, smoky aroma wafting from the kitchen.

The first bite of their tender, flavor-packed brisket always sends me straight back to my childhood summers.

And let's not even start on the pulled pork - it's simply out of this world.

For me, the secret to their success lies in the attention to detail.

Every single item on their menu, from the rich and creamy mac n cheese to the hearty potato salad, is made with the kind of love and care you'd only expect from a family-run establishment.

And their servings are always generous, leaving me comfortably full and satisfied every time.

The highlight of my meals at Hank and Aces BBQ, however, is often the dessert.

The apple cobbler is a must-try, with its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

And the banana pudding?

It's the perfect end to a perfect meal.

Betty's Cafe

One of the joys of living in this city is having Betty's Cafe.

The very first time I stepped into Betty's Cafe, I was hit with a sense of nostalgia.

It's exactly like eating at my grandma's house - simple, belly-filling food that just hits the spot.

I remember stopping by for breakfast one day, and boy, was I not disappointed!

The pancakes tasted just like a wedding cake, and the service was always excellent.

The prices are reasonable too, which is always a bonus.

I couldn't help but recommend it to all my friends.

In fact, on a recent drive past St Joseph, I decided to grab lunch at Betty's Cafe.

They have a simple, homestyle menu with different specials every day.

I ordered the Taco Burger with fries, and it was delicious.

Everything tasted fresh and of good quality, especially the crinkle fries.

I also got to try their "special" - a ham and bean soup that was definitely above average.

Plus, they serve it with three small sides, and each one was excellent.

What makes Betty's Cafe stand out is not just the food but also the service.

The Cafe Belle Epoque

I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised by my recent visit to The Cafe Belle Epoque.

The atmosphere is mature and serene, perfect to get away from the hustle and bustle of one's daily life.

It felt like stepping back into the early 1990s, evoking a familial nostalgia that adds a beautiful charm to the whole dining experience.

The food was delightful, tasting fresh and well-made.

I was also impressed by the pricing, it was very reasonable and excellent for the quality of food and service provided.

I was particularly impressed by how quickly we received our order, even though the place was almost full, the service was fast and efficient.

JC Wyatt House

I recently had the opportunity to dine at the JC Wyatt House.

This 1891 Victorian house turned restaurant is not just another place to eat; it's a place to celebrate and create memories.

I remember the first time my partner and I decided to celebrate our anniversary here.

The anticipation was almost as delicious as the food, especially because we had to pre-order our upscale American dishes a few days in advance.

Parking was a breeze, with plenty of space available right in front of the building.

This immediate convenience set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Each piece seemed to whisper a different story from the past.

One of the unique aspects of the JC Wyatt House is that you bring your own libations since they don't have a liquor license.

It might sound strange, but it's the norm here, and it quickly adds to the intimate and personalized experience.

Now, let's talk about the food.

I've had the chance to sample different dishes from their menu, and each one was a work of art in its presentation and a delight to the taste buds.

The corn chowder is, by far, my absolute favorite.

However, my partner swore by the lamb, and the filet mignon was a close second.

Every dish we ordered was cooked to perfection, a testament to their commitment to providing an outstanding dining experience.

Our evening wouldn't have been complete without their sensational dessert and the very special 'Happy Anniversary' touch written in chocolate.

Marco Polo

Occupying a cozy corner in the heart of our city is this delightful little restaurant, Marco Polo.

It's often been my go-to place when I'm in the mood for something a bit different and adventurous.

Just a few days ago, I had a late-night dinner there with my partner to celebrate our Anniversary.

The menu at Marco Polo never fails to impress.

It's always filled with surprising and unique offerings that you wouldn't find in your typical restaurant.

This time around, I decided to try their Seared Tuna - and boy, was it a good decision!

The meal was cooked to absolute perfection and served with the utmost care.

I still can't seem to shake off the divine taste of that Tuna.

While I'm not usually one for desserts, the bread pudding at Marco Polo is just next level.

It's rich, creamy, and oh so heavenly!

Cabbage Roll Restaurant

I remember the first time I walked into Cabbage Roll, it was like stepping back in time.

The charming, old-school decor, filled with knick-knacks, old plates, and tablecloths, had a certain nostalgic appeal to it.

I had heard mixed opinions about it, but I was intrigued by their promise of traditional German dishes.

My first visit turned out to be a delightful experience.

The Jagerschnitzel was a bit hit-and-miss, but the cabbage roll was simply outstanding.

It was as if each bite was filled with the rich heritage of German cuisine.

The fried potatoes, however, left a lot to be desired - they were just mediocre.

Over time, I've come to appreciate this gem in our neighborhood.

One of my favorite things to do is to make a to-go order over the phone.

The last time I ordered, I tried their Sunshine Lemon Cake along with the cabbage rolls.

Both were absolutely delicious, definitely, something I'd recommend to anyone who enjoys authentic German food.

Seventh Street Cafés

My stomach rumbles just thinking about the magic that happens inside the Seventh Street Cafés.

It became my comfort zone since I first stepped foot inside.

The turkey cajun sandwich is my go-to order.

Bursting with flavor, it's served on homemade bread that adds an irresistible charm to the dish.

And let's not forget the potato salad on the side - absolutely exquisite!

It's not just about the food, though.

They greet you with bright smiles and engage in light-hearted conversations that make the dining experience even more enjoyable.

I've had some of the best mornings enjoying their breakfast burritos, which I can only describe as perfect 10/10.

Geneo's Pizza and Pub

I always find myself coming back to Geneo's Pizza and Pub.

This charming pizzeria pub combo, with its old-school Italian ambiance, is my go-to for comfort food whenever I need some.

Their large cheese pizza is one of my favorites.

The blister on the cheese is so good, it's nearly perfect, and the minimal bubbles just add character.

It’s the kind of pizza that reminds me of home, warm and comforting.

Aside from the pizza, I’m a huge fan of their hot subs and classic pasta entrees.

Their thin-crust pizzas and baked pastas have improved significantly over time.

But it's not just about the food here.

The pub side of the building houses a selection of pinball machines, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day.

It's a great place to socialize and have fun, and I love that they've expanded to include a game room.

Il Lazzarone's Pizzas

Il Lazzarone has become my go-to pizza joint, nestled just off the interstate downtown.

The place has a relaxed, industrial-chic vibe that I absolutely adore.

The moment you walk in, you're greeted by the welcoming smell of wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas being baked to perfection.

If you're interested, visit their website here.

One of the things I love about Il Lazzarone is their diverse seating options.

You can choose to enjoy your meal inside their cozy restaurant or outside, where you can bask in the pleasant downtown ambiance.

And let's not forget about the parking - it's conveniently located right next to the building.

Food-wise, everything on their menu is a delight.

The Bruschetta, served with bread pieces instead of the usual bread base, is a revelation.

But the real star of the show is the Patata pizza - an absolute must-try.

I also can't help but fall in love with their locally sourced beers that perfectly complement the pizzas.

They always go out of their way to help you navigate through the menu and make great recommendations.

I’ve tried their Quattro Formaggio and Margarita pizzas on their suggestion, and it's now my new favorites!

It's a place I've introduced to many of my friends, and they've all loved it.

Pappy's Grill & Pub

Oh, Pappy's!

A friendly neighborhood spot tucked away in our city.

Their menu is quite extensive, but I have to say, the burgers and sandwiches are my go-to.

They have this laid-back vibe that just makes you want to hang out with a group of friends over some good food.

One of the things I appreciate about Pappy's Grill & Pub is their flexibility.

I remember one time I popped in during that awkward in-between breakfast and lunch period, and they were more than willing to whip up a breakfast item for me.

But trust me, their lunch menu is just as tantalizing.

I had this All Mac'd Up burger once, oh boy!

It comes with a side of onion rings, crispy and cooked to perfection.

The burger itself is an experience.

Imagine a juicy, cheesy mac-inspired patty with jalapeno slices adding a kick to it.

It's always a delight to revisit their menu whenever I dine there.

I tried the Rowdy Ruby with fries on my last visit; it's a Reuben style burger.

The portion sizes do not disappoint, and the fries?

Well, let's just say they're a crispy delight.

Fredrick Inn Steakhouse

I've been frequenting Fredrick Inn Steakhouse for years now.

It's the perfect gathering place for various occasions – whether it's a special family dinner or catching up with friends.

As a lover of boiled seafood and steaks, this restaurant has never disappointed me with its variety and quality.

And let's not forget the all-you-can-eat salad bar they offer.

It's a treat for someone like me who enjoys a good mix of greens with my meal.

My last visit to Fredrick Inn was rather special.

I had come with my friends who were visiting our city for the first time.

We all settled for different lunch specials and were pleasantly surprised by how quickly our orders were served, hot and delicious.

The warmth of pine-paneled walls added to our overall dining experience.

Another thing I admire about this place is the community feel.

Almost every time I've visited, I've bumped into an acquaintance or two, which sort of amplifies the charm of this local steakhouse.

They've also hosted some interesting groups in the past, from clown families to college basketball teams, adding a unique, lively atmosphere each time.

Taqueria Y Huaracheria Garcia

I love exploring new places to eat, and I'm so glad I stumbled upon this local gem, Taqueria Y Huaracheria Garcia.

The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

I came here for lunch once with a group of friends from work, and the service we received was excellent.

This place is a haven for those craving authentic Mexican food.

The carne asada, chorizo, and pastor tacos are all mouthwatering, let alone the delectable tamales.

The open salsa bar is a real treat, allowing you to dress up your dishes according to your taste.

I've noticed they also have a buffet but haven't had the chance to try it yet.

What sets Taqueria Y Huaracheria Garcia apart is its authentic street tacos.

It's like a mini trip to Mexico without leaving the city.

The shredded pork tacos, tortas, and tamales are amazing.

Adam's Bar & Grill

Imagine walking into a lively place where the atmosphere is filled with laughter and chatter, and the aroma of delicious food waiving in the air is enough to make your stomach growl.

That's what it feels like to step into Adam's Bar & Grill.

I've been frequenting Adam's for quite a while now.

It's almost like a tradition.

Fridays are the most happening, and yes, it can get pretty crowded.

But there's a certain charm about sharing the bar with fellow patrons.

The rush and the excitement make up for the wait.

And the wait is always worthwhile at Adam's, especially for their fried chicken.

A rarity at most bars & grills, they've nailed the recipe here.

Perfectly tender and golden brown, it's simply delicious every time.

And when I say every time, I mean it because I've lost count of the number of times I've ordered it.

Always bustling around with a friendly smile, they truly embrace the concept of hospitality.

It's not just about serving food but about creating an experience.

They've got it down to an art form.

Dinner nights with the family are not uncommon here.

My sister swears by their chicken fried steak, while my brother-in-law is a fan of their whole catfish.

They've got something for everyone.

The kids are not left out either, they have a special menu just for them.

D&G Pub and Grub

If you ever find yourself looking for some good grub and a nice, chill atmosphere in the city, I'd highly recommend you check out D&G Pub and Grub.

What I love about this place is the food.

The last time I was there, I went for the Duncan, my usual, and as always, it was delicious.

It's so fulfilling knowing that the flavors you're tasting didn't just come from a can.

One time, my buddy ordered the Neal Peart, and he wouldn't stop raving about it.

We also had their onion rings and crab Rangoons.

Those crab Rangoons, oh boy, they are to die for!

The menu is full of these surprise delights, each one better than the last.

Now, let's talk about the atmosphere.

This place is not just a restaurant.

The walls are adorned with memorabilia from artists who have performed in the attached concert venue, Cafe Acoustic.

This place has seen some talent!

They even have an open mic night, which is always a fun time.

Tomo Japanese Restaurant

There's a spot in our city where I've found the perfect balance of great food, wonderful ambiance, and friendly service, it's the Tomo Japanese Restaurant.

I'm a big fan of Japanese cuisine, and this place has never disappointed me.

One evening, I ordered their hibachi steak and chicken with noodles, fried rice, and salad with ginger dressing.

Everything came out piping hot and delicious, with generous portions that left more than enough for leftovers.

I was so engrossed in the meal that I nearly forgot to take pictures!

Another time, I decided to try their lunch bento box with tempura shrimp.

The variety was impressive, with four pieces of sushi roll, two gyoza, steamed rice, miso soup, shrimp and veggies, and a delightful dipping sauce.

The quality and freshness of the food stood out, and the price was just right for such a fantastic meal.

The atmosphere at Tomo is comfortable and inviting.

The volume of the music is just right, creating a relaxing environment, and the service is always attentive and accommodating.

It feels like a home away from home, where you can enjoy a delightful meal while immersing yourself in the authentic Japanese dining experience.

Hoof & Horn Steak House

I've got to say Hoof & Horn Steak House is one of those places that has truly become a staple for me.

I stumbled upon their website a while back, and I've been a regular since.

One of the standout experiences I've had here was when I took some colleagues for lunch.

Despite the restaurant buzzing with the lunch rush, the service was speedy and efficient.

For me, a good joint isn't just about the food.

It's about the atmosphere, the service, and the drinks - and Hoof & Horn Steak House doesn't disappoint.

The bar offerings are varied, and the beer - always cold.

Stepping into Hoof & Horn Steak House is like stepping into an old Western, with its rustic charm and dim lighting.

The food, of course, is the star of the show.

The steaks and pork chops are a must-try, and I've found my meals here to be consistently good.

And I can never resist their to-go bread pudding with whiskey sauce; it's a must-have!

First Ward House

I decided to take a visit to the historic First Ward House one evening.

This place has been around since 1878, and now it's renowned for its American dishes and drinks.

I've passed by the establishment countless times, but this was my first time going in.

I must say, the food at First Ward House is impressive.

I ordered a hamburger which arrived piping hot, and the savory taste lingered on my palate - it was simply delicious.

The place was quite packed, so I had to wait a while before the burger was served, but it was worth the wait.

They were accommodating, too, they substituted a small side salad for me at my request.

The atmosphere was laid back, with a nice deck area where you could just relax and take in the ambient sounds of chatter and clinking glasses.

El Maguey

I don't think there's anything quite like a good Mexican meal, and El Maguey certainly delivers on that front.

It's not the most glamorous place, but in terms of authentic Mexican food, it's pretty spot-on.

The food is typical Mexican.

What strikes me about their food is the massive lunch portions they serve!

I love how they mix hot salsa with mild to give it the right kick.

The Enchilada sauce is sweet red, which contrasts well with the fiery salsa.

They're seasoned well, and they give you a ton of them.

The Big Biscuit

If you're a breakfast enthusiast like me, you've probably heard of The Big Biscuit.

Personally, I've found that the quality of the food justifies the cost.

Their Texas-sized portions are absolutely massive and can satisfy even the hungriest of patrons.

They're truly divine!

And let's not forget the breakfast potatoes and hash browns that were also fantastic.

One thing's for sure, though - if you have a sweet tooth, their waffles, topped with a heap of whipped cream, are a sight to behold and a treat to devour.

Final Thoughts

St. Joseph, Missouri, is a hidden gem when it comes to dining experiences.

Whether you fancy traditional American-style food at Hank and Aces BBQ or Betty's Cafe, want to try out something French at The Cafe Belle Epoque, or are in the mood for Italian at Marco Polo, our city has it all.

The hard part isn't finding a good place to eat, it's deciding which delicious spot to try next!

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