deveined shrimp.

But to bring that sensibility to St. Louis—home to ag giant Monsanto's world headquarters?That takes some grit.. Vicia.

is named for a common Midwestern cover crop that restores nutrients in the soil.It's also a metaphor for the larger mission here, celebrating the region's rich agricultural history.Dinner delivers the message with bites like split breakfast radishes served with a pesto made from their tops, or a glass of tomato water with a piece of charcuterie balanced on its rim.

Vicia isn't meatless, but Gallina chooses his moments carefully.You might find rich pork jowl and tender rib paired with "taco" wraps—purple top turnips sliced into translucent rounds.There's a heartfelt quality to the experience here, and it peaks with bread service taken outside, in front of the wood-burning oven.

There's a tall table set with warm, blistered sourdough flatbread and an ever-changing lineup of toppings: tomatoes burst in the oven, creamy whipped ricotta, a head of young garlic slow-roasted to sweetness, umami salt made with dehydrated tomato skins.

You can chat with the chefs while you rip and dip on your feet.Grace Parisi’s version is light as well as a little spicy, which allows the fresh, briny flavor of the crispy fish to come through.. Get the Recipe.

Shrimp Boil with Spicy Butter Sauce.In this especially delicious version of a classic shrimp boil, the seafood is simmered with lemon, garlic, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning.

Shell the shrimp right at the table and then dunk each one into our positively irresistible cayenne-spiced sauce.. Get the Recipe.Crunchy Fish Sticks with Tartar Sauce.