The National Equestrian Center (NEC) hosts many of the Missouri Horse Show Association’s (MHSA) shows across all disciplines. Those that have been showing for a while remember when it was truly out in the country, with not many dining options close by. That has drastically changed, with many restaurants of all types within a short drive. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between classes or a celebratory dinner with your barn, you can find a place nearby. Except for the fast-food listings, these listings are based on recommendations from MHSA members.

Fast Food

Hawk Ridge shopping center is just a short drive east of the NEC and has numerous national fast-food chains, including the following: Taco Bell, Wendy’s, Sonic, Arbys, McDonalds, Hardee’s, Jimmy John’s, Subway, Panda Express, Penn Station, Steak n Shake, Popeyes, Starbucks, and Panera (locals call it Breadco – old habits die hard). Pizza Hut, Chick-fil-A, Freddy’s, and Jack In The Box, and QDOBA are also nearby. Looking for something a little different? Slightly farther away, but available for delivery, is Soulard Gyro (https://www.soulardgyro.com/). This local chain offers an alternative to the typical fast-food experience.

Casual Restaurants

Do you prefer a casual sit-down meal? You have many options. Stef’s Italia Pizza (https://www.stefspizza.com/) is right down the road. This is a local chain of restaurants that serves pizza and other Italian fare. Hawk Ridge is home to The Post Sports Bar and Grill (https://thepostsportsbar.com/), another local chain serving pub style food. Town Square Pub N Grub (https://www.townsquarepubn-grub.com/), which also serves pub style food, is just across I-64. A little further on the other side of I-64 on Highway N is Sugarfire Smoke House (https://sugarfiresmokehouse.com/), a well-known BBQ chain in St. Louis. El Maguey Mexican Restaurant (https://www.elmagueylakeside.com/) has two locations nearby, one in Hawk Ridge and one in Lake St. Louis. Another Mexican restaurant, Prado’s (https://www.pradoslsl.com/) is in the Meadows shopping center.

Upscale Restaurants

Looking for a more upscale experience? These restaurants, while still welcoming casual diners, offer a more upscale experience. Donatello’s Bistro (https://www.donatellisbistro.com/?fbclid=IwAR1uUoJuHpu4E4ksIsFD9DZMAdPRn5vguZiWFg5NkosLtwzk-vwySXeBFQY) is an Italian restaurant within walking distance of the NEC. They offer private rooms and catering also. BC’s Kitchen (https://www.bcskitchen.com/?fbclid=IwAR1nWrGtxG1awoKz1kSyUOXQ_gFZgxQxEPRLSfXfzUsQeVuXKRNEeqr-D9c) is located in in the Meadows Shopping Center and offers a diverse menu.

Desserts

Clementine’s Creamery (https://www.clementinescreamery.com/) is a nationally known local micro creamery known for its naughty and nice ice cream. Nice ice cream is your typical fare, while naughty contains alcohol. The nearest location is just across the I-64 in the Meadows shopping center. Fritz’s Frozen Custard (https://fritzsfrozencustard.com/), another local favorite, has a location on Highway K near the NEC. Bring your dog along for a pup cone. Twisted Sugar (https://twistedsugar.com/) offers cookies and a variety of other desserts. It is on Highway N on the other side of I-64.

Local Favorites

Drewe’s frozen custard is a St. Louis institution. The store itself is in St. Louis on Old Route 66, but you can buy it at Dierberg’s grocery store in Hawk Ridge. Gooey Butter cake is a decadent breakfast treat in St. Louis. If you would like to sample it, you can find some in the bakery at Dierbergs. One of Clementine’s most popular ice cream flavors is Gooey Butter. Toasted Ravioli is a traditional St. Louis appetizer. Donatelli’s, Stef’s Pizza, the Post Sports Bar and Grill, and Town Square Pub N Grub all have it on their menus. St. Louis style pizza has its fans and foes. Find it at Imo’s (https://www.imospizza.com/). The closest location is in the Meadows shopping center. Finally, Billy Goat Potato Chips are another St. Louis favorite. They can be found at Dierbergs.

Have any of your favorite places or local favorites you’d like added to this list? Let us know!