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    Southwest Diner

    4.5 (1.2k reviews)
    Closed 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

    Waitlist - Southwest Diner

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    Southwest Diner Photos

    Business Info

    SOUTHWEST DINER ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Classy
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - Southwest Diner

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    Lindsey P.

    The decoration of the restaurant is very cute. We went while they were busy, so things seemed a little tight in the space, but it was perfectly fine. We ended up sitting at the counter on stools and I thought it was really fun and cute with the older red style cushions. I got the Grits on Fire, and it's really funny to describe this, but when I took my first bite, I was a little disappointed. It had a nice flavor and a bright spiciness to it but was lacking a depth of flavor. It was so close to being amazing! My husband suggested adding salt, and it changed the dish completely. It became something incredible, but I did have to tweak the dish. My husband got a burrito, although I forget which one. It was good, but didn't reach "great." This place was really nice, but not quite what I'm looking for personally. It's way better than an average restaurant, though. I would suggest people try it.

    Sopapilla
    Mindy P.

    If your friends suggest it, just say yes. If you need a great diner/greasy spoon, make the plan. I was not expecting to like this place as much as I did. We were not able to make a reservation, which is fine, our wait was short. The space is small which is sad for the rest of STL, because they can only help so many people in one day. Service was very attentive, food was a great combo of breakfast with southwest flavors. Hopefully will be able to come back for lunch very soon!

    Art on patio
    Shauncei G.

    Came here as it was recommended by a couple of friends. To me the food was pretty mediocre, I had the breakfast burrito with green chili. I was expecting more of a chili rather than actual green chilis ontop. It was fine but lacked flavor in general. And the portion was pretty small, tho it was inexpensive for the portion size. I LOVED the artwork on the patio, and I loved that they offered patio seating. It didn't take too long to get sat even tho they were busy. But our service was pretty slow, I also had the coffee which I didn't care for but I did drink the cup, our waiter never got us a refill on our coffee at all either. The pancakes were truly the best part of the entire experience, very unique and not too sweet which I love! I also had a bite of my husbands heuvos rancheros, the portion was also very small, and it was just okay not great but not bad either.

    Breakfast burrito (Christmas style - red and green sauce), torta with chorizo, and grits on fire
    Sarah M.

    Finally made it to Southwest Diner on a chilly day recently! Due to the weather, it was not busy at all on a late morning Saturday but they were still open! Our server was really nice and attentive. We got the grits, a burrito, and torta. All were super good - big fan of the fries that came with the torta! The homemade chorizo was amazing. This is definitely worth the hype!!

    Build Your Own Burrito
    Alli N.

    A must-try Southwest-meets-St. Louis gem! Every bite here is bursting with that bold Southwest flair -- perfectly spiced, comforting, and absolutely delicious. The food looks as good as it tastes -- from crispy tater-tot bites topped with queso fresco and green onions, to the hearty plates piled high with eggs, gravy, and golden potatoes, to that incredible smothered breakfast burrito that's pure flavor heaven. The service is just as awesome -- friendly, attentive, and quick even when the place is buzzing. And the vibe? Totally unmatched. It's bright, eclectic, and full of energy, with the coolest outdoor setup featuring a converted school bus bar for drinks. It's the perfect place to kick back with brunch, a cocktail, or both. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Southwest Diner is one of those places that leaves you full, happy, and already planning your next visit.

    J David H.

    A highlight of my recent trip to Saint Louis was a brunch outing at the Southwest Diner with my son. Located in the Ellendale community outside of Maplewood. Ellendale began to thrive with the addition of electric street cars in 1896. The Southwest diner is in an early 1900's brick building. It was several businesses in its past, but most well known as a grocery. Parking is off street and free. Southwest offers a covered outside patio for additional space with frequent waits especially on weekends. The dining room vibe is spectacular and will deceive customers into believing it has operated for many decades. In reality, Southwest has only existed since 2012 and was formerly a breakfast taco stand at Tower Grove Farmers Market. A sharp eye of their retro tables and chairs may reveal the former identity as 1950's Jack in the box. A cool looking bar compliments their space. They also have interior group dining that seats eight. Table service was top notch, the coffee delicious and a classic diner menu with a flare of New Mexican cuisine superb. The owner Johnathan was on hand too. We both wanted eggs which is a specialty, so for me the "Rocket to Bacon Land" omelette with three eggs goat cheese, arugula, caramelized onions and bacon. Side of potatoes. My son opted more basic with a three egg omelette, sausage and fried potatoes. Our waitress Kate suggested a side order of French Toast to split instead of toast which proved an excellent choice. She also included a biscuit to try that was yum. Put Southwest Diner on your list for a visit in Saint Louis. For families the prices are affordable as well. Jump on their waitlist for a smoother experience on weekends when they get clobbered. Can't wait to return.

    Coffee!!
    Madhura J.

    Went back today after a bit . The pozole was warm and comforting and the sopapilla was just the right amount of sweet. My husband loved his hueveos rancheros and our friends loved their black bean burger and veggie tortas as well . Our server was great , friendly professional and gave us the space we needed . The ambience is so relaxed and welcoming. My only regret is that I didn't take more pics .

    Carne adovado
    Sara M.

    We ate at this place last Thursday for the first time in a while. I had the rocket to Baconland, my partner had the carne adovado and grits on fire. The service was fantastic and we like the vibe of the place a lot. He liked his dishes. As for the rocket to Baconland omelette, it felt more like a salad wrapped in an egg crêpe, which was not for me. There was also not much bacon for a dish with the name implied. I did not leave hungry though, and I would definitely give them another try.

    Sara G.

    So, you think you know huevos rancheros? Well, clearly you haven't been properly introduced until you've hit up Southwest Diner in Maplewood. These folks serve up a plate so spicy and scrumptious, it'll make your taste buds question all their life choices. And the coffee is very strong! Thank you for that. The place is always packed, because who doesn't love waiting for greatness? But don't worry, the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic décor give you plenty to look at while you ponder your existence. And if you're thinking of setting up your laptop to work, just remember: nothing says productivity like the constant aroma of delicious food and the noise of happy diners.

    Patio
    Deyna J.

    Second time here! We really enjoyed the food first time so we decided to come again. There was a 15-20 minute wait but we could be seated sooner on the patio. We decided the patio would be okay because they have heaters. The overhead heaters were clutch! Service was good. Food great. I really loved the cornmeal pancakes! Eggs and potatoes were perfect but the veggie sausage was a bit overcooked. My boyfriend loved his create your own omelet! The bacon was nice and thick. The portions were just right. There are so many good breakfast/brunch restaurants in St. Louis and Southwest Diner is right up there with the best.

    John S.

    Wow! Really cool place! Excellent breakfast joint and awesome vibe. Hip. Trendy. Eclectic. Fantastic outdoor area. Had the fried egg sandwich. Awesome! Wifey had the biscuits and gravy (full order) and fantastic. Friends had the chorizo breakfast burrito...huge and spicy! They loved it!! Place is busy...so use the waitlist to jump in line. Don't walk, but run to this place!

    Vege breakfast tamales with over easy eggs
    Robert B.

    Breakfast here is always a treat. My daughter and I have started a new tradition. When we drop my wife off at the airport, we come here for breakfast. She been on a few trips lately, so we've been here a few times lately! Can't go wrong with the grit tots to start! And the breakfast tamales always hit just right! Lots of tables and they turn over pretty quickly, so just be patient if you get there late.

    Carne adovada  Pancakes Biscuit Biscuits and gravy  Coffee mug Outdoor seating
    Katie J.

    Small, cozy, hole in the wall diner that evokes a southwestern paradise in a Midwestern city. Located on the corner of Southwest Ave and Abbot Pl, Southwest Diner offers a classic breakfast menu with a Santa Fe flair. Servers are quick to take orders and the food comes out at a good pace. They are open to customization on the menu (just be nice about it). I ordered the Posole and Biscuits and Gravy the last time I went. Previously, I've tried their tamales, sopapilla, pancakes, birds in a blanket, and Carne Adovada - all highly recommended. Still want to try their wings. I want Guy Fieri to come here and try their food... Tips: Weekend brunch lines are long, I'd recommend utilizing the Yelp waitlist when able. If you're eating in the winter, try to avoid eating by the door ... unfortunately my biscuits and gravy were a bit cold the last time I ate there because the wind kept blowing in when people were checking in at the hostess stand. But that's okay because the Posole was steaming! Tables larger than 6 are going to have a longer wait time in the winter. In nicer weather, the outdoor patio is great to enjoy a meal in. That's what you get with local diner charm! This place is definitely a special spot in St. Louis

    Spicey scramblies with potatoes and squash side.

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    2 months ago

    Good. The food was very good and the atmosphere was very good. If you enjoy good, make sure you try them.

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    2 months ago

    Delish! We got the sopapillas. Yum. Good coffee. Kind waitress. Great patio. We love this place!

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    2 months ago

    Such a great place! The food has never disappointed, every bite is delicious. The service is friendly and warm. The vibe is chill.

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    3 months ago

    Service and food were great. We got the French toast and chicken fried steak coffee was good. Nice vibe!

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    8 months ago

    Breakfast pork tamales with red and green chile sauce Christmas style. Cool coffee mugs !

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    Page 1 of 29

    Southwest Diner Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Southwest Diner

    Is the patio dog friendly?

    Yes! 🙂

    What types of menu items are gluten-free and does Southwest Diner accommodate those with Celiac disease?

    This place is pretty carb forward but maybe an omelette and sub the toast for a salad?

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Carl's Drive In

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    (370 reviews)
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    We didn't know Carl's was cash-only before we went. Thank goodness we had cash!…read more The whole store is pretty small, with around 20 seats total on two separate counters. It has a real old-timey lunch counter feel. The service was great! Our waitress was super sweet and attentive. The food was really good! I'd definitely come back if I was in STL. I'm a pretty picky eater and this satisfied me. The smashburger was great! Cooked well and not burnt at all. The fries weren't my favorite. They were okay but I think switching to a different brand or frying them in something else would be better and more flavorful; as it was, they were pretty bland and inoffensive. The coke was great too, with teeny tiny ice like all good diners have. The shake wasn't something I'd order again. We ordered chocolate and it tasted like milk with a little chocolate syrup thrown in. Onion rings were good too! A super fun stop! I'd come back!

    Just about as perfect as you could ask, for the diner feel, Smashburger. I went as plain Jane as…read moreyou could with a double Smashburger with just some raw onions so I can get the full flavor of the burger, which had crispy edges just like it should. I got my first root beer in probably two decades because it was in a barrel. I think you're meant to have root beer at a place where they serve it out of a barrel. About as authentic as you could get and I really liked it check out the pics.

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    So sorry about this
    So sorry about this
    Double cheeseburger and onion rings
    Double cheeseburger and onion rings
    Exterior

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    Exterior
    The Piccadilly at Manhattan

    The Piccadilly at Manhattan

    4.3
    (404 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$

    I got the Chicken Pot Pie. It was amazing! First, it came out so quick. I thought that we would…read morebe waiting for a lot longer. The pastry was light and flaky, and a perfect golden brown. This filling had lots of chunks of chicken, and the vegetables and gravy were a flavor bomb. This was the best that I've had in a long time. We went on a Saturday evening and we had to wait around 20 minutes for a table, so if you are planning to go on a busy time, definitely try to get a reservation ahead of time. Our waitress was outstanding, helpful, and kept our drinks refilled constantly. The restaurant is small(ish), but has indoor dining, a four seasons type of room, and outdoor seating. We'll be back!

    Last minute decision to go here for dinner as we hadn't been in a while. Lots of full tables but…read moreit was unseasonably hot so no one sitting outside. We were seated quickly and our waitress, Karen, stopped by for drink orders and asked if we had dined there before, that was an affirmative. Karen was no nonsense and efficient, telling us about the special and answering questions about the pot pie. We happened to be seated next to a table from someone I knew, so we didn't have to pretend not to stare at the food they ordered, lol. We just talked about all that we ordered. Their Piccadilly fish looked amazing as did the rib special. I ordered the chicken pot pie, I had been thinking about it, and craving carbs to boot and it didn't disappoint. Karen informed me that it had lima beans and corn, so I wasn't shocked by that. Came in a bowl draped with puff pastry. Pastry was flaky and lightly browned, the base was creamy with lots of chicken chunks, carrots, corn, and lima beans. I haven't had lima beans before and I liked them. I had ordered the soup of the day, Tuscan white bean that sounded great, but I thought it was just ok. Husband ordered the fried chicken with slaw and mashed potatoes. The chicken was HOT! I enjoyed the leg piece I snagged off his plate, the breading is thin and adhered well to the chicken, the slaw was creamy, I didn't try the potatoes. Great home-style food, nice atmosphere, efficient service. Try the pot pie!

    Photos
    The Piccadilly at Manhattan
    Fried Chicken - ample portions, great green beans, marvelous mashed potatoes, good gravy, and crispy tasty fried chicken...
    Fried Chicken - ample portions, great green beans, marvelous mashed potatoes, good gravy, and crispy tasty fried chicken...
    Patio area

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    Patio area
    The Crow's Nest

    The Crow's Nest

    3.9
    (386 reviews)
    0.7 mi
    $$

    Upon being seated at the Crow's Nest yesterday, we were informed that the deep fryer wasn't working…read moreand that, because we were a group of more than eight, we would not be allowed to split our checks and would be charged an automatic gratuity. Not only were we not granted an exception on the checks as consolation for not being able to order french fries, there was no indication that this had even occurred to our server. This is precisely the level of temerity we need to inculcate in young women in our society, and I'd encourage her to apply for a job at the women's-only sports bar a few doors down if and when it ever opens. It'd be tragic if she wasn't there if and when I return, but I'd appreciate the fact that she has a greater mission. Hopefully, the deep fryer is working. It being out of commission naturally limited the number of things on the menu we could order. We were only told that we couldn't order anything that required a deep fryer, not given a modified menu or anything. I started going through each item and imagining how it might be prepared, but I couldn't muster the psychological bandwidth to continue. Hit my Cash App if you appreciate the amount of unpaid emotional labor I was compelled to contribute. It occurred to me that I might just get a burger and a side salad, but then I saw that they carry a club sandwich. I love a good club sandwich, and I figured it might make for a light, refreshing alternative, given the weather. There's an option to get a cup of soup for $1.50 extra as a side with your sandwich (no, they didn't offer to eat the charge), and I figured that might go well with my sandwich. I was kicking myself when they brought out someone else's order with the side salad. It looked really good. The Frisco Burger, or whatever they're calling it, looked good too. Meanwhile, the BBQ Beef & Cheddar Soup--the soup du jour (that's French), according to Flo--looked gross, like something your dog might cough up. But damn it was good! It was more beef than anything else. A large bowl of it might actually be too much food. (I'd still eat it, natch.) The overall flavor profile was along the lines of a good french onion soup. It was a reminder that I need to be ordering soup in restaurants more often. I wish the club sandwich was cut into little triangles and fanned out on the plate in some elaborate configuration, like at a place where rich old ladies have lunch, but I guess that wouldn't have been in keeping with the theme. Instead, it was served on the world's thickest Texas toast, with the world's dullest steak knife protruding from its center. This sounds like hyperbole, but I may have honestly been served the equivalent of half a loaf of bread. It was much more bread than I required, but at least it was fresh and delicious, as were all the other ingredients. Turkey used for sandwiches is almost never remarkable, but this was surprisingly great, as good as anything you'd get served as an entree unto itself. Nothing about this place suggests that it would have such good food, but it just goes to show you can't judge a book by its cover. The decor, the overall vibe and the lack of hospitality might not be for everyone, but don't let that deter you.

    What a great place! Popped in and found seating right away. The had a lot of great food and drink…read moreoptions, including vegetarian and vegan. We got cheese curds for the table and I got the hot honey mac and cheese. The food was delicious. They had a retro movie playing and lots of cute decor. It was super fun to sit there and enjoy the ambiance. The service was also quick and good. Will be coming back.

    Photos
    Heated patio
    Heated patio
    Brunch Burger Beef patty(veggie option available), cheddar, bacon, fried egg, garlic pepper Mayo on muffin
    Brunch Burger Beef patty(veggie option available), cheddar, bacon, fried egg, garlic pepper Mayo on muffin
    The Crow's Nest

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    Chris' Pancake & Dining

    Chris' Pancake & Dining

    4.0
    (527 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    Came here for breakfast on a Sunday late morning. They have a few tables for outside dining or you…read morecan sit inside. The parking lot was filling fast. I'm glad I entered from the opposite way google maps wanted me to add the lot isn't as big as it should be. The seating inside is a little cramped to me, at least where they sat us. It was a 2 top next to the wall across from a 4 top. Between our table and the next was a tiny path to the bathroom area which is too close. Next time, I'll be specific with where not to seat me. Outside of that, the service was really good. Great staff, very attentive. Menu had a nice option so it took us a minute to fully review the menu. The food was delicious. Cinnamon roll was very sweet as expected so brace yourself. My menu mimosa was pretty good. A lot of pulp from the mango and not enough champagne but still enjoyable. We will definitely.

    My husband and I wanted to try a new breakfast spot. We stopped by another spot in the area but the…read morewait time was over an hour. So we pivoted and came across Chris' pancakes. Upon arriving, the parking lot appeared jammed pack, and you could tell there was a wait. I checked us in to be put on the waiting list. Our wait was about 30 minutes. We were sat at a two top table. A server came over to grab our drink order, and our actual server came over to introduce his self. Our server was polite and willing to answer any questions I had. We waited about 30-40 minutes for our food to come out. I ordered short stack pancakes (w/strawberries and blueberries), bacon and eggs. The pancakes were huge, fluffy, and savory. Bacon was crispy, and eggs were cooked perfectly. My husband ordered a country omelet that came with a side of pancakes. He stated his pancakes were rubbery, but his omelet was good. This place is not very big and can feel quite cramped when full. There's not much room to stretch out, and when people are walking past it feels as if they are all up on you. The building was extremely cold, even with a jacket on. Very filling, and the prices are reasonable!

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    Clean, large dining areas
    Clean, large dining areas
    Fish sandwich
    Fish sandwich
    Outside

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    Outside
    Golden Oak Pancake House

    Golden Oak Pancake House

    3.7
    (88 reviews)
    2.2 mi
    $$

    Golden Oak is a great place for breakfast! I have been here several times and my favorite thing is…read morehow big this place is! It can sometimes be frustrating how crowded breakfast places can get with minimal seating. Sometimes on the weekends I just want a good breakfast, coffee and don't want to wait an hour for seating. Service is always friendly and fast! You are greeted as soon as you arrive. I have never had to wait for seating as there are so many tables. I have had pancakes, eggs, sausage and all have been delicious! They have a huge menu with so many options. The coffee is fresh and continuously refilled. This would also be an excellent choice for a large group! Looking for a good service, solid breakfast menu with quick seating check out Golden Oak!

    Lots of rave reviews for this place so I had to try it. It was pretty decent but didn't wow me for…read moresure. I will definitely give it another shot because I could see the potential. My pancakes had that good malty maybe is the word flavor I like but they were too thick and cake like. That may have been a one off and not an always thing? I had the country omelette and the sausage was so strong it overpowered the rest of the dish. It wasn't terrible but I'll order one without sausage and with cheddar cheese next time. It came with American cheese which I thought I'd like but didn't so much. Otherwise my server was nice but slow on drink refills especially for how slow it was on a Tuesday morning. The place is huge and would be hopping if it was a full house. Definitely worth a shot if you're a breakfast person.

    Photos
    Menu
    Menu
    Western Omelet and hash browns
    Western Omelet and hash browns
    Pancake

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    Pancake

    Southwest Diner - diners - Updated June 2026

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