![Tara Gallina](C201905-Five-Food-Cities-St-Louis-Tara-Gallina.jpg)
Drive time:4.5 hours
Excuse to go:The Cubs visit Busch Stadium May 31 to June 2 and again July 30 to August 1 to take on the division rival Cardinals.
Local expert:Tara Gallina, co-owner of veggie-focused Vicia
Southwest Diner
The New Mexico–inspired diner serves up chile-spiked grits, pickle fries, and cornmeal pancakes. Patrons waiting for a table can hop onto a retrofitted school bus parked nearby for breakfast cocktails. “You’re almost disappointed if you don’t get to wait on the bus,” says Gallina. 6803 Southwest Ave.
![Balkan Treat Box](C201905-Five-Food-Cities-St-Louis-Balkan-Treat-Box.jpg)
Balkan Treat Box
What started as a food truck now has a permanent home to serve its flatbreads and grilled cevapi sausages. “Get there early — they sell out daily.” 8103 Big Bend Blvd., Webster Groves
Union Loafers
Come dinnertime, this convivial corner bakery turns into a pizza shop known for its New York–style pies. 1629 Tower Grove Ave.
![Clementine’s Creamery](C201905-Five-Food-Cities-St-Louis-Clemetines-Creamery.jpg)
Clementine’s Creamery
Flavors like butter cake (a local delicacy), chocolate milk stout, and maple bourbon draw crowds, but this spot also has a well-stocked bar. 1637 S. 18th St.