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Top picks in St. Louis

Ribs lunch spots

Made for those who want to tackle a plate of ribs during their lunch hour.

Based on 592 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Buzz’s Hawaiian Grill image 1
Buzz’s Hawaiian Grill image 2
Buzz’s Hawaiian Grill image 3
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Hawaiian restaurant

Small space with tropical vibes and Hawaiian music creates a laid-back, beach-like atmosphere. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor patios, connected to a funky bar that adds to the relaxed energy. The environment feels cozy and welcoming, reflecting island warmth and friendliness.

Kalbi ribs stand out for their tenderness and flavor. Mixed plates often include these ribs alongside Hawaiian smoked pork, rice, and macaroni salad.

Lunch offers a wide variety of food with consistently great quality. Sunny days pair well with the relaxed vibe that makes it a favorite spot for midday meals.

People are saying

"I found the Hawaiian food here to be authentic."

"This lunch spot serves authentic, flavorful Hawaiian plate lunches."

"The kalbi ribs are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-minute wait for food during peak times.

2

Parking is limited; expect to park down the street.

3

Cash only accepted at the connected Tick Tock Bar.

02
Hogtown Smokehouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small indoor space feels cozy but loud, with dark lighting and a homey vibe. Large outdoor patio offers a spacious, relaxed atmosphere with games and live sports on many TVs. Crowd enjoys smoked meats aroma and lively energy, often accompanied by cold beer and live music setups.

Ribs come out tender and perfectly done with a smoky flavor that stands out. They sit alongside brisket and sausage, all prepared with care and rich taste.

Seating for groups up to eight happens with no wait on Sunday. Lunch options include smokehouse dishes enjoyed after visits to nearby attractions like the zoo and museums.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is tender and smoky."

"These ribs are so tender and falling off the bone."

"The brisket at this Lunch Spot is so good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street near the restaurant.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

The restaurant offers both inside and outside seating options.

03
Dalie's Smokehouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small, cozy barbecue spot with outdoor patio seating and a drive-through window that welcomes pets. Atmosphere feels warm and laid back, with a friendly, intimate vibe and well-done decor inside. Busy and casual, it offers a unique menu with standout dishes not found elsewhere.

Ribs here have meat that falls off the bone and a flavor similar to Pappy's ribs. They come across as great and delicious with a strong reputation for quality.

Hearty meals define the lunch offerings here. Plates come with generous portions and satisfying flavors that make lunch a solid choice.

People are saying

"I found Dalie's Smokehouse to have some of the best BBQ around."

"These ribs are so tender, they just melt in your mouth."

"This barbecue Lunch Spot is the best I've had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long wait times.

2

They often run out of popular items like smoked turkey and ribs.

3

Online ordering is unavailable for sold-out items, but phone orders can be placed.

04
The Stellar Hog image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Spacious patio with live music creates a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Indoor space feels hot and can get crowded, while outdoor seating offers room for groups and kids to play. Known for top-tier barbecue and a fantastic bar, it blends great food with a fun vibe.

Beef ribs stand out with amazing flavor and tender meat that needs no barbecue sauce. Ribs, wings, and turkey rank among the best ever tasted by BBQ lovers.

Lunch features delicious food served in a lovely backyard space. The spot works well for a quick stop or a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"I found the brisket here to be outstanding."

"These ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's BBQ, especially the ribs and brisket, is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Sundays are beef rib days, offering a special menu item.

3

Music bingo happens on Wednesdays, providing a fun activity.

05
Five Ace's Smokestaq Lightning image 1

Old late 1800s building with wooden beams and hardwood floors creates a blues stage vibe. Smoker on the sidewalk fills the air with rich barbecue aroma. Covered patio offers riverfront views and a family-friendly atmosphere with tasteful music.

Ribs come tender, flavorful, and smoked with a homemade BBQ sauce. They stand out as authentic St Louis baby back ribs that consistently impress with their taste and quality.

People are saying

"I had the best BBQ I've ever experienced here."

"This lunch spot's smoked meats, like the ribs and brisket, are tender and flavorful."

"I thought the ribs here were the best I had in a long time."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-run and veteran-owned, providing a personal touch.

2

The menu is small but offers a variety of BBQ options.

3

The location is easily accessible from the metro station.

06
Cleaver & Cocktail image 1

Restaurant combines urban sophistication with luxury lodge elements and features a large outdoor patio overlooking a landscaped park and fountain. Atmosphere is inviting and relaxed but can be noisy, making conversation difficult at times. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience.

Beef ribs come out tender and flavorful, often cooked sous vide or dry aged for extra depth. Short ribs melt in your mouth with well-seasoned richness.

Lunch features a grilled salad with green beans and steak tips as a standout option. Service stays attentive without being overbearing, making it a solid hidden gem for midday meals.

People are saying

"The aged beef here is amazing, perfect for Date Spots."

"The beef ribs were tender and flavorful."

"The brisket sandwich here is unbelievably tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are only accepted for tables of four or eight people.

2

Expect to pay around $270 for a meal for two, including drinks.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers, but specific times are not mentioned.

07
Smoke N Bones BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small, intimate barbecue restaurant with open dining area and plenty of space between tables. Atmosphere is laid-back and quiet, with no music and a mix of hickory smoke and incense scents. Offers indoor and dog-friendly outdoor seating with simple, clean decor and multiple TVs.

Ribs come out incredible and never overcooked to mush. They hold up well with a perfect texture and rich flavor that stands out among BBQ options.

Lunch offers generous portions like 1/3 or half racks of ribs. Prices stay reasonable, and sides include corn and fried okra. The BBQ holds up well for leftovers the next day.

People are saying

"These ribs are spicy, flavorful, and absolutely perfect."

"I found the brisket to be amazing, with just enough pull."

"The ribs here are juicy with a flavorful, sweet-leaning rub."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a BYOB policy, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

Expect a $20 charge for a half slab plate.

3

Cash payments receive a discount, making it more affordable.

08
My Place image 1
Restaurant

Massive space with separate dining areas and an outdoor section offers a comfortable, inviting atmosphere that supports easy conversation. A self-serve beer wall with over 50 taps lets guests pour their own drinks, adding a unique interactive element. Thoughtful branding and attention to detail create a distinctive, social environment suitable for groups and casual gatherings.

Ribs come with flavorful heat and a satisfying taste. The St. Louis Ribs Bowl stands out with its balanced spice and rich flavor.

Space suits large gatherings and casual lunches that often turn into drinks. Plans include returning for brunch and lunch again.

People are saying

"I loved the beer wall with its many options."

"This Lunch Spot's food was excellent, especially the Korean BBQ wings."

"I found the ribs to be excellent and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Brunch meals are available from 10am to 2pm on weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant has a large parking lot available for guests.

09
French Frie Factory image 1
American restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall style space with early 2000s R&B music sets a family atmosphere that feels welcoming and calming. The dining area includes wrap-around seating with bar stools and small tables, creating a cozy vibe. The place stands out for its friendly energy and relaxed, chill environment.

Turkey ribs stand out with rich barbecue flavor. The BBQ turkey rib fries combine tender meat with crispy fries for a satisfying dish.

Food arrives quickly, especially just before lunch. The spot offers a delicious lunch experience with efficient service.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the loaded fries."

"I loved the BBQ turkey rib fries, they were divine."

"The Lunch Spot fries were loaded with delicious toppings."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has a small parking lot that can be hard to navigate.

3

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

10
Nubby’s Telegraph image 1

Small, cozy restaurant with intimate setting and loud, lively atmosphere featuring live music and crowd singing. Regulars enjoy exceptional barbecue and pizza alongside a dog-friendly patio and multiple TVs for sports. Space fills quickly with a neighborly vibe and limited seating.

Smoked ribs come out tender and perfectly seasoned with a lot of flavor. Portions are generous, matching the quality of the brisket and pulled pork.

Lunch features smoked pastrami with clear flavor, not just reheated meat. Seating happens quickly and service is prompt around midday. This spot works well for a solid, straightforward lunch.

People are saying

"You have to try the American Food, the Philly Cheesesteak is stuffed with cheese."

"You have to try the cheesesteak; it's a massive, juicy brisket sandwich."

"I found the ribs tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for peak hours like weekends.

2

Limited seating is available during busy times, so arrive early.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM with discounted appetizers and drinks.

11
A Touch of Texas BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Large pit out front signals authentic barbecue with walls covered in family photos creating a homey, old-school vibe. Music ranges from classic R&B to live bands, enhancing a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like lunch at a friend's house.

Beef ribs come extremely tender with a great salt rub that needs no sauce. Rib tips and baby back ribs are amazing and juicy, seasoned well with large portions.

Food portions allow making two full sandwiches for next-day lunches. The atmosphere feels like eating at a friend's house, creating a relaxed lunch experience.

People are saying

"These ribs are so tender, moist, and smoky."

"The smoked oxtail here is super fatty and needs no flavor enhancement."

"The rib tips at this Lunch Spot are amazing and juicy."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to get popular items as they sell out quickly.

2

The restaurant is family-owned and takes pride in its meals.

3

Expect a line before opening as many customers wait.

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St. Louis, Missouri

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