When it comes to discovering the hidden culinary gems of America, no one does it better than Guy Fieri. The spiky-haired host of Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives has crisscrossed the nation, uncovering the most mouth-watering dishes and unforgettable eateries. Missouri, with its rich food culture and diverse cuisine, has no shortage of standout spots that have captured Guy’s heart and taste buds.
From finger-licking BBQ joints to charming diners serving comfort food with a twist, these Missouri restaurants offer something truly special. Join us as we dive into Guy Fieri’s favorite Missouri diners and dives, and find out what makes each one a must-visit on your foodie bucket list.
Danny Edward’s BBQ
Danny Edward’s BBQ, located at 2900 SW Blvd in Kansas City, MO, is famed for its delectable beef brisket and signature “Ol’ Smoky” burnt ends sandwich. These flavorful brisket edges are slow-smoked with hickory, delivering a robust, smoky taste that captivated viewers of Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. The restaurant also offers a variety of meats by the pound, including beef, turkey, and pork, along with a three-meat special for the ultimate BBQ experience. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Kansas City barbecue.
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YJ’s Snack Bar
YJ’s Snack Bar, nestled at 128 W. 18th St. in Kansas City, MO, is celebrated for its diverse and constantly evolving menu. Inspired by owner David Ford’s international explorations, this spot offers an array of worldly dishes such as North African lamb kebabs and Turkish stuffed figs. Highlighted on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” the restaurant has caught the eye of Guy Fieri and food lovers alike. Signature offerings like their chorizo, meatloaf sandwich, and Mayan tostadas keep patrons coming back for more.
The Brick
The Brick, located at 1727 McGee St. in Kansas City, MO, is famed for its seamless combination of live music and scrumptious homemade dishes. Celebrated on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” Guy Fieri noted that this pub-grub joint never skimps on goodness. Must-try items include the bacon-wrapped and beer-battered deep-fried hot dog and the classic meatloaf sandwich. Whether you’re in for the tunes or the tasty eats, The Brick promises a night well spent.
Swagger Fine Spirits & Food
Kansas City’s Swagger Fine Spirits & Food, located at 8431 Wornall Rd., is the brainchild of Derek Boone and Dustin Craighead, who dove into the restaurant world with no prior experience. Their boldly innovative Suribachi Burger, featuring a tempura-battered, deep-fried beef patty, caught the eye of “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” host Guy Fieri. Known for other special dishes like Flying Monkey Chili and the Dead Texan, this eatery has quickly become a must-visit. Guy’s enthusiasm for their unique menu is contagious.
Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout
Happy Gillis Cafe & Hangout, located at 549 Gillis St. in Kansas City, MO, is a beloved spot known for its creative and flavorful dishes. Owned by a passionate husband and wife team, this cafe has earned acclaim on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” for their unique flank steak sandwich marinated in red wine and cola. Guy Fieri praised it as being “so outside the box,” and locals agree, noting you can really taste the love in their food. Don’t miss their posole verde, another standout offering that keeps diners coming back for more.
Cupini’s
Cupini’s, found at 1809 Westport Rd. in Kansas City, MO, offers a delightful menu of fresh, homemade Italian dishes. Known for their gnocchi, ravioli, and especially the six-layer lasagna, Cupini’s prepares everything from scratch, including the pasta sheets. Guy Fieri featured this gem on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” and declared their lasagna “everything that you want in lasagna.” Topped with hearty marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella, Cupini’s dishes are a true Italian delight.
The Shaved Duck
The Shaved Duck, situated at 2900 Virginia Ave. in St. Louis, MO, offers a unique blend of “barbecue, folk, and soul.” Showcased on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” Guy Fieri got messy with their famous cheese fries covered in smoked pork butt and rib meat. He also devoured their smoked duck with cherry juniper jam, praising its crispy skin. Known for these standout dishes, The Shaved Duck has become a hotspot for those seeking flavorful, soulful barbecue.
Grinders
Grinders, situated at 417 E 18th St. in Kansas City, is famed for its inventive pizza offerings and quirky atmosphere. Created by sculptor-turned-chef Stretch, the restaurant boasts unique decor such as hand-welded Army helmet lamps and a draft-beer tower made from an oxygen tank. Featured on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” Guy Fieri was particularly impressed by the Bengal Tiger pizza with its pesto base and toppings like tandoori chicken, crabmeat, and hearts of palm. Their Famous Chili Bomb Pie is another standout that keeps customers coming back.
Espino’s Mexican Bar and Grill
Espino’s Mexican Bar and Grill, found at 17409 Chesterfield Airport Rd. in Chesterfield, MO, is celebrated for its mouthwatering, authentic Mexican dishes crafted from family recipes. Guy Fieri featured this gem on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” and couldn’t get enough of the pork chili verde with yellow rice and refried beans, describing it as “off the hook.” Popular with locals, the restaurant also serves standout ribs and mole. For a genuine Mexican dining experience, Espino’s is a must-visit.
Dressel’s Public House
Dressel’s Public House, found at 419 N Euclid Ave. in St. Louis, MO, is renowned for its farm-to-table approach and scratch-made dishes. Featured on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” Guy Fieri raved about their porchetta “Louie” sandwich, which combines provel, rapini, and pepperoncini on a toasted baguette. He also highlighted their pretzel with rarebit sauce, lauding its saltiness, crustiness, and chewiness. For a delightful slow-food experience, Dressel’s Public House is a must-visit.
Anthonino’s Taverna
Anthonino’s Taverna, located at 2225 Macklind Ave in St. Louis, is renowned for its unique fusion of Greek and Italian comfort food. Featured on Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives, this cozy spot run by two brothers offers crowd-pleasers like toasted raviolis with homemade marinara and Romano cheese, which earned Guy Fieri’s approval. For a taste of Greece, try their chicken souvlaki. This eatery has quickly become a favorite.
Guerrilla Street Food
Guerrilla Street Food, a roaming food truck in St. Louis, is making waves with its authentic Filipino street food. Chef Brian Hardesty and co-owner Joel Crespo deliver mouthwatering dishes like blue crab ceviche and freshly made pancit that impressed Guy Fieri on Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives. To top it off, their One Inch Punch drink, featuring black currant juice, pineapple juice, coconut milk, and mint, is a must-try. Keep an eye out for this food truck for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
The Highway 61 Roadhouse and Kitchen
The Highway 61 Roadhouse and Kitchen, located at 34 S Old Orchard Ave in Webster Groves, is a vibrant homage to the flavors along “The Blues Highway,” stretching from St. Louis to New Orleans. Highlighted on Diner’s Drive-ins and Dives, this restaurant offers a fusion of Midwestern, barbecue, and Cajun-Creole cuisines. Guy Fieri couldn’t resist trying their unique BBQ Spaghetti, a dish that perfectly captures their inventive spirit. For a taste of the diverse culinary heritage of this iconic route, the Roadhouse is the place to be.