The Grove is gaining an exciting late-night dining destination thanks to two prominent names in St. Louis’s food and entertainment industries. Atomic Eats (4140 Manchester), a fast-casual eatery, will debut inside Atomic by Jamo on July 8. The venue’s restaurant will be operated by The Five Senses, LLC, the hospitality collective behind Kingside Diner and Herbie’s.
Drew Jameson, owner of Atomic by Jamo, views Atomic Eats as the ultimate fulfillment of his vision for this multi-purpose venue, which launched in 2024.
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“Food has always been central to bringing this vision to life,” Jameson explains. “I was willing to wait for the right moment, and we discovered an amazing partner in The Five Senses. I’m thrilled we took our time to find the perfect match. The right restaurant is crucial for this front room—it’s an extraordinary space.”
The Concept
Atomic Eats will operate within the Atomic by Jamo complex, a multifaceted entertainment hub featuring various areas and activities: Atomic Pavilion, Atomic Lounge, Atomic Garage, Atomic Block Party, complete with live performances, DJs, and other entertainment.
The Five Senses leadership—chefs Aaron Teitelbaum, Eric Prophete, and Jamal Holmes, along with operations director Dan Rolf—will oversee Atomic Eats. The restaurant will operate from 3 p.m.–1 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday, while the bar stays open until 3 a.m.
Per Jameson’s vision, Atomic Eats will transform the Atomic complex into a complete hub for eating, drinking, dancing, and live music, whether guests are attending a ticketed show or simply relaxing in the front area.
“Since opening, we’ve been very event-focused, so it’s refreshing to highlight the casual aspect of our space,” Jameson says. “We want to be an accessible, budget-friendly spot where locals can hang out once or multiple times weekly. Almost always, you’ll be able to stop by free of charge to enjoy the vibe or catch something special, like a World Cup broadcast, all while experiencing some of the best sound and technology St. Louis has to offer.”
The Menu
While The Five Senses team continues refining the Atomic Eats menu, Jameson promises accessible yet refined comfort food options. Creative smashburgers with inventive toppings highlight the offerings. Additionally, the menu will feature vegetable dishes and sides, including a vegan chili option that Jameson anticipates will be a customer favorite. Atomic Eats will also provide dessert and children’s menu selections.
The Atomic complex is simultaneously revamping its drinks selection, emphasizing beer, tequila, and batched cocktails from STL Barkeep designed for efficient service. Guests will enjoy offerings such as adult slushies in Capri Sun-style pouches, Jell-O shots, and alcohol-free alternatives.
“At first, we pursued a more upscale beverage approach inspired by craft bartenders—and we were fortunate to collaborate with some of St. Louis’s best bar professionals,” Jameson explains. “However, our customers wanted something different. This approach delivers what they’re seeking while improving our operational flow.”
The Backstory
Jameson, a concert promoter at local promotion company Jamo Presents, launched Atomic by Jamo in The Grove in August 2024. Occupying the previous Atomic Cowboy location (where Jameson spent five years), Atomic by Jamo has become the area’s premier live music venue and a haven for St. Louis music fans through its diverse schedule of performances, DJs, and live jam sessions.
Jameson views Atomic Eats as a natural progression for the venue and a significant contributor to The Grove’s post-pandemic resurgence.
“Since 2015, I’ve watched The Grove evolve through various ups and downs,” Jameson reflects. “Today, we have excellent operators in the area, and strong leadership is helping shape the neighborhood into a vibrant entertainment district. It’s an ongoing process, and we’re all collaborating to make it happen.”
