Esca

Mediterranean restaurant · Academy

1

@infatuation

"For fish lovers, walking into Esca is like that amazing pet store that had the best selection of tropical fish when you were a kid. “Holy cow. They have Tetras, Swordtails, and Kissing Gouramis!” But far from a pet store, this Italian seafood spot is the best high-end dining option near Port Authority and Times Square. As for the menu, the raw fish crudos are out of this world. Start with lots of them. Definitely get a pasta or two, and when it comes to picking your fish entree, it’s all a matter of taste because the simple preparations are seasoned perfectly and you really can’t go wrong. Reservations aren’t tough to come by at Esca, and during warm weather months, there’s also a great outdoor patio for maximum quality fish enjoyment. Despite minimal updates to a dated space over the years, Esca remains a safe bet for an excellent meal. Being the lone great restaurant in the horrible hot mess of an area where the Lincoln Tunnel, Times Square and The Port Authority all converge has actually been a great thing for Esca. Since there’s nothing even remotely noteworthy around here when it comes to food, Esca is the place to be. Food Rundown Crudo This is how you start a meal at Esca, and maybe some oysters, too. The crudo section of the menu literally covers every fish in the sea. It doesn’t matter what you mess with, it’s going to be delicious. Get a sampler to try a bunch of different stuff. Seppia One of our favorite appetizers. Whole cuttlefish cooked in their own ink with butterbeans and pastina. Watch out, don’t get the black ink all over your shirt. Vongole Forno (Clams On Clams On Clams) We’ve been known to come here and do a clam tasting menu. Crudo, this dish, forno (which are littleneck clams baked with apple, double-smoked bacon, and horseradish), the absolutely flawless Linguine Vongole with red hot pepper and pancetta, and the Zuppa di Pesce (their delicious fish stew entree that has clams in it). Bucatini Thick, spaghetti-like pasta with jumbo gulf shrimp, arugula, and gravy. Delicious. Maccheroni Alla Chitarra Whatever pasta they have on the menu with sea urchin and crabmeat, order it. Thank us later. Whole Fish For Two One of the Esca signatures, if you come with a group, you should absolutely order a simply prepared, expertly seasoned whole fish. As with everything on the menu, there are options. Lots of ’em. Sea bass, branzino, and porgy. Don’t sleep on the porgy." - Andrew Steinthal

Esca Review - Hell's Kitchen - New York - The Infatuation
Infatuation - Reviews

5095 Delmar Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108 Get directions

bengelina.com
@escaondelmar

1 Postcard

Reserve
See full details

More Places For You

Songbird

Restaurant · Forest Park Southeast

At this cozy neighborhood spot, brunch lovers dive into scrumptious breakfast sandwiches and expertly brewed coffee, all served in a friendly, vibrant atmosphere.

4 Postcards

Gooseberries

American restaurant · Marine Villa

A cozy gem serving all-day meals, Gooseberries delights with rich Southern dishes, vibrant vegetarian options, and a playful, eclectic vibe.

2 Postcards

DoubleTree by Hilton St. Louis Forest Park

Hotel · Central West End

Nestled in the vibrant Central West End, this laid-back hotel boasts comfy rooms, convenient hospital access, and a complimentary shuttle, all wrapped in modern charm.

0 Postcards

Sanctuaria

Latin American restaurant · Forest Park Southeast

Sanctuaria buzzes with a vibrant, medieval flair, serving up tasty tapas, clever cocktails, and a lively patio perfect for late-night gatherings.

3 Postcards

The Moto Museum

Museum · Midtown

The Moto Museum is a vintage motorcycle haven with a unique event space vibe, showcasing European bikes and offering guided tours, plus a side of party potential.

0 Postcards

Park Avenue Coffee - Lafayette Square

Coffee shop · Lafayette Square

Park Avenue Coffee is a cozy spot in Lafayette Square, perfect for grabbing a great cup of coffee and indulging in delicious gooey butter cakes.

1 Postcard

Missouri History Museum

History museum · DeBaliviere Place

The Missouri History Museum in St. Louis, nestled in Forest Park, invites all ages to explore captivating exhibits—from the iconic 1904 World's Fair to engaging local history—at no cost, making it a must-see gem for both residents and visitors.

1 Postcard

Perennial Artisan Ales

Brewery · Patch

This small-batch brewery, set in a chic warehouse, offers an impressive variety of craft beers alongside inventive bites and a fun, relaxed vibe.

1 Postcard

Bridge Tap House & Wine Bar

Gastropub · Downtown

Tucked away in downtown St. Louis, this chic spot boasts an impressive beer and wine selection alongside delicious charcuterie and hearty dishes.

2 Postcards

The Gin Room

Bar · Tower Grove East

Nestled in South Grand, Natasha's Gin Room serves an impressive selection of gin cocktails and flights alongside Italian-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

4 Postcards