Ian Froeb’s STL100, an annual roundup of the St. Louis food critic’s favorite restaurants, offers a guide that can help both locals and visitors find some of the best brunch spots in the city. Based on his expertise and recommendations, here are places to enjoy an exceptional brunch in St. Louis:

1.Squatter’s Café – Located in the Grand Center Arts District, Squatter’s Café offers an artsy and relaxed atmosphere. Their brunch menu features creative twists on classic dishes, like their chorizo and sweet potato burrito or the lemon-ricotta hotcakes.

2.Russell’s on Macklind – Nestled in the Southampton neighborhood, Russell’s on Macklind serves up comforting yet sophisticated brunch items. Their gooey butter cake is a local legend, and you won’t want to miss their mouth-watering biscuits and gravy.

3.Rooster – A downtown favorite for its European-style brunches, Rooster has a wide selection of savory crepes and slingers. Try the smoked salmon crepe or go for the heartier Rooster Slinger if you’re extra hungry.

4.Half & Half – For those who can’t decide between breakfast or lunch, Half & Half offers the perfect blend of both with their weekly-changing menus that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. The Clayton eatery is known for its fluffy eggs benedict options and delicious French toast.

5.The Mud House – On Cherokee Street, you’ll find The Mud House offering a cozy retreat with delicious coffee drinks to pair with their hearty brunch plates like their famous Mud Slinger piled with veggies and topped with an egg.

6.Polite Society – In Lafayette Square, Polite Society provides an upscale brunch experience where the baked egg tartine or shrimp and grits are standout dishes. Pair your meal with one of their carefully crafted cocktails.

7.Egg – Situated in the Benton Park area, Egg is famous for its globally-inspired brunch dishes such as the Korean Bibimbap breakfast bowl and a variety of omelets that showcase unique flavor combinations.

8.Sardella Osteria- Ian Froeb praises Sardella Osteria for its imaginative take on Italian cuisine which extends to its brunch service. You might find dishes like ricotta pancakes or a pork belly breakfast sandwich featured on their weekend menu.

For those looking to explore St. Louis culinary scene through brunch based on Ian Froeb’s recommendations from STL100, these spots offer just a taste of what’s available among many other worthy options throughout the city.