The burger is one of the very few mainstays on chef and owner Cassy Vires' ever-changing menu, and with good reason: A luscious patty made from grass-fed beef is further elevated by cheddar cheese, a roasted-garlic aioli, bacon...and a fried egg. The egg is the greatest of these indulgences, its gorgeous, runny yolk giving the burger a rich, silken grace note.
1. Five Bistro (5100 Daggett Avenue; 314-773-5553)
Nothing more than a grass-fed beef on a perfectly baked bun (though you can dress up it a little, if you like), this was twice the best burger in town when chef and owner Anthony Devoti served it at the late Newstead Tower Public House. Devoti has since moved it to the late-night menu at Five Bistro, where it remains the "Best Burger" in St. Louis.