If you're searching for a BBQ haven in St. Louis, look no further than Five Ace's Smokestaq Lightning. Nestled at 724 N 1st St, this family-owned gem has garnered exceptional reviews from visitors. Customers rave about the warm and inviting atmosphere, characterized by rustic wooden beams and a vibrant patio overlooking the riverfront.
Highlights of the menu include the mouth-watering Ace Rodeo Burger, Meatloaf Sloppy Joe, and the beef brisket quesadilla, all of which showcase the restaurant's commitment to delicious, wood-smoked BBQ. Patrons like Sarah F and Amber Wheeler emphasize the impeccable service and the dedication of the owners, who create a personal touch with every meal.
While currently lacking an alcohol license, the potential for pairing a fine drink with your meal adds an element of anticipation for the future. Visitors appreciate the laid-back vibes and reasonable prices, making Five Ace’s a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic BBQ. With its unforgettable flavors and passionate owners, it's no surprise some customers plan to return during their next visit to the area. Don't miss out on this culinary delight!
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
No wheelchair-accessible toilet
From the business
Identifies as Black-owned
Identifies as disability-owned
Identifies as veteran-owned
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food
Quick bite
Serves vegetarian dishes
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Children
Good for kids
Has kids' menu
Photos
Reviews For Five Ace's Smokestaq Lightning
Sarah F
Jun 24,2025
This is a great restaurant, would definitely eat here again. They opened up one evening for our large group. Service and food were great, the atmosphere is amazing. Definitely recommend.
Craig Klinker
Jun 12,2025
Absolutely Fantastic! Was just walking by to go check out the river front when the aroma of the smoker out front drew us in. We were already hungry for lunch so we went in and ordered the Ace Rodeo Burger and the Meatloaf Sloppy Joe. The atmosphere was awesome, I love the old buildings with the wooden post and beams and the hard wood floors. We ate out on the cover patio with great views of the the river front. The food was Delicious! I need to go back to try some of the other menu items. We got a chance to talk to the owner for a while, great guy! It was obvious that he loves what he is doing and has plans to make it even better. This place will definitely be on my must visit place any time I am in the St Louis area.
Amber Wheeler
Jun 7,2025
We spent the weekend in St.Louis and this was the best place we ate at all weekend! It’s a must! The BBQ was amazing, service was great! We will be back next time we are in town!
Layla Smet
Jun 5,2025
What a wonderful, authentic place to get the bbq meal we were looking for! I ordered the beef brisket quesadilla which was delicious. The meat is wood-smoked and they make their own bbq sauce, which was so tasty. We were hoping to get an adult beverage with our meal, but unfortunately they didn't have their alcohol license. Hopefully they will be able to get one soon...I think that would really add to the place, especially in summer so people can eat and have some drinks on their patio. The owners were incredibly friendly and sweet. We really felt well taken care of. They are a family-owned businesses and just good people. If we are ever back in the area again, it is definitely a place we will come back to.
Coby Potischman
May 19,2025
Awesome laidback BBQ spot. I got the pulled pork sandwich, with a side of Mac n cheese. It was divine — sandwich was juicy and flavorful, super pillowy bun, and the Mac tasted great. Also great vibes; the music and decor were very comforting. I rest my case — would recommend to anyone looking for delicious (and reasonably priced) BBQ.
Bedale Naba
May 15,2025
Traveling through with my fiance, the food was phenomenal, the venue was amazing, and the owner was nice and gave us a tour around. This spot is amazing! So much potential. Would love to be able to get some drinks and enjoy live music there. Hopefully they get that area straightened out because the potential is out of this world. Best chopped brisket philly I've ever had.
Gregory Ballard
Apr 27,2025
Great Place to eat! The cook there is Amazing local guy from Missouri with the most unique style of barbeque you ever had he's a local guy from from Missouri and I celebrated Juneteenth there with him and his family in his very nice establishment
T Hurd
Mar 27,2025
I tried this place for the first time today, on a hum bug and O M G was the food delicious! The ribs were on point. So were the sides. Those collard greens were off the chain and NOT from a can. The service was great too. I will DEFINITELY be back. Maybe again tomorrow cause I need to try the whole menu. Quesadillas, here I come. I just don't need to eat here on my lunch break again cause a sister was at the desk KNOCKED OUT!!
Reviews For Five Ace's Smokestaq Lightning