Beast Craft BBQ Co. owner David Sandusky's fine dining background is reflected in his barbecue

Sauce 75: the essential St. Louis restaurants right now

Even if heavy hitters like the famous 1.5-inch thick pork steak are sold out for the day, or you came on the wrong day for the fork-tender burnt ends (only available Monday and Friday), staples like the ribs, with burnished brown crust, deep pink smoke ring and just enough cling, are sure to satisfy. Owner-pitmaster David Sandusky spent years in the fine dining world before hitting the barbecue pits, amassing skills reflected in his determination to provide not only killer meat, but also a stellar meal. Don’t miss exceptional sides like classic pit beans and roasted Brussels sprouts studded with pork belly.

20 S. Belt W., Belleville, Illinois, 618.257.9000, beastcraftbbq.com

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The Sauce 75 is a photomosaic of the best in St. Louis dining in 2024. This list is a celebration of the diverse skills, techniques and culinary traditions that meet across our region. In sum, it tells a story about where St. Louis has been, where it is now and where it’s going next. Many great and good St. Louis restaurants have not made the cut. (Seventy-five is a lot fewer than you think!) Restaurants are constantly growing and evolving and go through ups and downs. Newly opened restaurants can take time to find their feet: There are a few exciting new places we’re cheering for, but which we feel haven’t yet fully hit their stride. Read the entire list here.