First photo from Post-Dispatch files; add'l photos sponsored by restaurant
Edibles & Essentials
Matthew Borchardt’s Edibles & Essentials benefits from repeat visits. A single meal here reveals a charmingly eclectic menu anchored by pork ribs (smoked, then deep-fried), banh mi tacos and french fries with garlic and Grana Padano. As the menu changes from month to month, however, you appreciate the range of Borchardt’s talents. On my most recent visit, he and his team showcased both duck-confit tostadas with pinto beans, salsa verde, an adobo crema and Oaxaca cheese as well as a cheese dip made from smoked Gouda as creamy and indulgent as any queso in town. Can’t get enough of Edibles & Essentials’ fries? Track down the Essentially Fries truck, which serves them topped with different meats and garnishes.
Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday (brunch menu served 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday)
Last year's ranking: Rest of the Best
Opened: 2015