Local Harvest Café
The owners of this neighborhood favorite are proud that at least half of their ingredients are from within 50 miles of the city. Taking part in a food movement across the country that emphasizes reducing environmental impact buy buying goods locally, the restaurant not only buys seasonally from local farmers but also gets some prepared items, such as homemade pasta and desserts, from other gourmet restaurants in the area. The menu is heavy on vegetarian items but does offer some meat dishes. Check out the restaurant's affordable dinner service from Wednesday through Saturday; the menu changes frequently with the seasons.
Local Harvest Café
3137 Morganford Road
St. Louis, MO 63116
(314) 772-8815
localharvestcafe.com
The Shangri-La Diner
This diner, situated between the Hispanic and antique districts of the city, has the classic features of a diner---the same tables, chairs and bright walls---but it isn't a greasy spoon. The all-you-can-eat Sunday buffet brunch offers a sampling of what the restaurant has to offer. The brioche french toast, usually not available on the brunch buffet, is a must-try on a separate trip to the restaurant. The restaurant has savory comfort food, as well: veggie meatloaf, nachos, cheese fries, burritos and a vegetarian version of the famous St. Louis Slinger --- eggs or tofu, hash browns, cheddar cheese, vegan chili and multi-grain toast.
The Shangri-La Diner
2201 Cherokee St.
St. Louis, MO 63118
(314) 772-8308
theshangriladiner.com
Lemon Grass Vietnamese Cuisine
The name of this eatery gives away the theme of its dishes. According to the restaurant Web site, Lemon Grass is commonly grown in Vietnam, and the restaurant's heavy use of the herb brings out the traditional essence of Vietnamese food. While the lengthy menu includes a long list of meat and seafood dishes, 15 vegetarian options are available on the entree menu, and that doesn't even touch on the soup, rice and noodle platters, appetizers and specialties. Traditional Vietnamese desserts, such as sweet potato flan and banana pudding, are available to finish off the meal. The restaurant is in the heart of South Grand Avenue, in a district known for its culinary and cultural variety.
Lemon Grass Vietnamese Cuisine
3161 S. Grand Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63118
(314) 664-6702
lemongrass-rest.com
