4 delicious deals for $10 or less in St. Louis

1. Fall is fast approaching, and Bike Stop Cafe on old Main Street in St. Charles is getting into the season early. Visit Wednesday nights from 6 to 9 p.m., grab a seat on the brick patio overlooking the Missouri River and make s’mores over the fire pit. Smore’s kits are $2.75 and come with Hershey’s chocolate, marshmallows and your very own stick, or swap the Hershey's with some Hageland vegan chocolate for $3. It's a perfect midweek way to unwind and enjoy what’s left of summer weather.

2. The dog days of summer are in full swing, and Bolyard’s Meat & Provisions in Maplewood is rolling out the buns Saturday, Aug. 25. The local butchery hosts Dogs for Dogs, a summer grill-out to benefit the Animal Protective Association of Missouri. House-made, single-topping and loaded hot dogs will be available for $7 or less, tallow fries for $5, and they'll even offer house-made dog treats for sale. Bring your furry friend and enjoy live music and family-fun activities or snuggle with some pups available for adoption, courtesy of the APA. 

3. If the answer is always tacos, does it really matter what the question is? Taco Circus – the scrappy, punk-rock taco shop in Bevo Mill ­offers devotees a much-needed breakfast boost. This month, swing by on your way to work Monday through Thursday from 8 to 10 a.m. and enjoy buy-one-get-one breakfast burritos for $10. Stacked with eggs, potatoes and your choice of meat, this is the best way to get your taco fix in the morning.

4. There’s a new cool cat in town. HopCat on the Delmar Loop is the latest destination for craft beer enthusiasts, and it’s offering a weekday lunch special sure to be more addictive than its signature Crack Fries. Visit Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and enjoy a half sandwich or salad with a side for an easy $8. Sample items like their HopCat BLT, Southwest salad, mac and cheese and, of course, those addictive fries. 

Kevin Korinek is a freelance journalist and photographer.