first impression | Making a mark on the St. Louis barbecue scene takes something special—the Lou is home to no shortage of places to get amazing ribs, pulled pork and more. But if anyone is up to the task, it’s Gerard Craft and Niche Food Group. Located at City Foundry, Expat BBQ puts a global spin on traditional American dishes. Think ribs with Chinese five spice and chili crisp or brisket with avocado salsa verde and yucatan spice rub.
wash it down
Expat BBQ offers a full bar service with wine, beer and creative house cocktails. For a unique libation, try the Kimchini ($15). Made with your choice of gin or vodka, it’s a spicy, briny spin on a classic martini thanks to the addition of kimchi paste.
must trys
Dia’s Cheese Bread, $12: You may already be familiar with this appetizer—it was on the menu of Niche Food Group’s Cinder House. It’s not hard to see why these biscuits were brought to Expat BBQ. You just can’t go wrong with cheesy bread. They’re soft
and a little salty, and honey butter adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
Pulled Chicken Sandwich, $14: This dish brings the flavors of northern Africa to a classic sandwich. It’s prepared with berbere, a blend of chilis and spices, and an awaze barbecue sauce, which is inspired by a versatile Ethiopian sauce. If you find poultry boring when it comes to barbecued meats, this sandwich will change your mind. The flavors are phenomenal.
Lamb Shoulder Plate, $24: This dish is perfectly seasoned courtesy of a blend of fresh bay leaf, black and green cardamom, cumin, coriander and clove—plus pomegranate molasses. Thanks to the yogurt-based white barbecue sauce, the lamb almost takes on the vibe of a deconstructed gyro, but the flavor palette has a unique BBQ spin.
Mac N Cheese, $11: When it comes to sides, this is a can’t-miss. It’s creamy and rich with a distinct crunch thanks to both bread crumbs and crispy chicken skin. There’s also a pleasant heat thanks to jalapeños. It’s the perfect complement to any barbecue dish.
Ice Cream Sundae Shaved Ice, $9: Fluffy shaved ice is covered in chocolate and cherry sauces and condensed milk. It’s more akin to the Korean dessert bingsu than a traditional snow cone. While the toppings are still sweet, it’s not the pure sugar bomb of flavored syrup. The chocolate especially adds some richness. It’s a unique dessert that’s definitely worth trying.
final thoughts
Expat BBQ is definitely worth a visit, whether you’re eating in the main dining room or grabbing a late night snack on the terrace. The menu isn’t something that you’re going to find at any other barbecue spot. The interior has a cool vibe, leaning into the industrial history of City Foundry and adding fun touches, like vibrant patterned wallpapers and vintage travel posters. St. Louisans are lucky that we don’t have to travel that far to get a global take on barbecue.
3730 Foundry Way, Ste. 132
314.924.9728
expatstl.com
Pictured at the top: Jerk Chicken Wings tossed in a jerk rub then smoked and served with sweet and spicy sauce
Photo: Bill Barrett
