#62: Mixed Grill Platter at Flaco's Cocina

Chrissy Wilmes

​Letting oneself get too hungry is a dangerous thing. When blood sugar runs low, tempers can run high, and the simple act of ordering something new becomes a high-risk roll of the dice. For those times of extreme hunger and limited patience, it's important to reserve a few favorite go-to dishes.

The mixed grill platter at Flaco's Cocina (8400 Delmar Boulevard, University City; 314-395-4343) appears at the table like a mirage to a thirsty desert traveler. But, thankfully, it only looks too good to be true.

The mixed grill consists of the chef's choice of fresh fish of the day, two large shrimp and a choice of chorizo, chicken or steak. All of this is served with a massive pile of garlic sweet-potato hash and a serving of sautéed spinach. The fish of the day on this particular visit was tuna. The lightly seared fish was topped with a crunchy, sweet mango salad. Add the fine cut sweet-potato fry pile on top of it all, and this gorgeous, protein- and carb-packed dish is almost too pretty to eat.

This entree is easily big enough for two. Of course, if the diners are dangerously hungry, that might not be the best idea. We'd hate for someone to lose a finger trying to steal the last shrimp.

Beginning last year, RFT restaurant critic Ian Froeb counted down -- in no particular order -- 100 of his favorite dishes in St. Louis. Now Gut Check has taken up where he left off. Check back frequently as we detail our 100 favorites, and don't hesitate to send us yours, too, either via the comments thread or at tips@riverfronttimes.com.

Previously:

#63: Arancini From Mangia Mobile
#64: Three Coins in the Fountain at the Fountain on Locust
#65: Pan-Fried Noodles at Pho Grand
#66: Pastelitos at Fritanga
# 67: Bento Box at Blue Ocean Sushi
# 68: Lamb Burger at The Scottish Arms
#69: Crispy Pork Spring Rolls at Bobo Noodle House

#70: Turkey Melt and Field Greens Salad at Schlafly Bottleworks
#71: The Vegetarian Platter at Ranoush
#72: Vegetarian Meatballs at Lucas Park Grille
#73: Sizzling Rice Soup at Hunan and Peking Garden
#74: Straw and Hay Pasta at Trattoria Marcella
#75: Spaghetti Pomodoro at Babbo's Spaghetteria
#76: Shrimp Fajitas at El Matador
#77: Vegetable Quesadilla at Chava's
#78: Companion Rustic Olive Bread
#79: Salt and Pepper Shrimp from Wei Hong