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    Aya Sofia

    4.2 (384 reviews)
    Closed 4:00 pm - 9:00 PM

    Order Aya Sofia Takeout or Delivery

    Aya Sofia Photos

    AYA SOFIA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Intimate
    Romantic
    Dogs allowed

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    Recommended Reviews - Aya Sofia

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    Adana Kebap
    Pooja V.

    We were pleasantly surprised at how amazing the food was. The service was excellent. Everything was flavorful and we will definitely be back again. The location is very cute and loved the Ambiance inside. Very romantic location. Their cocktails are also excellent with a nice twist

    Catering order...which was obviously enjoyed by all!
    Sean M.

    We have ordered Aya Sofia to cater multiple parties for us now, most recently on 6 February 2026, and I will continue to order from them for all my catering needs. Here's why: ** VALUE: They price the catering service by the quantity of food ordered, not by the number of guests. I have full control of what I order. ** FLAVOR AND FRESHNESS: The food consistently wows our guests. So many fresh options and colorful platters, so many flavors, such variety. Their food is a crowd pleaser every time! ** EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE: They offer very fairly priced delivery and setup with enough notice, and their presentation of the food they served at my most recent party was spectacular, complete with cards identifying each dish. What's even better is that Alicia, the owner, and her husband are an absolute DELIGHT to work with. I would highly recommend Aya Sofia for all your catering needs! Finally, their restaurant is GORGEOUS. Dining there is a true experience, complete with beautiful decor, ambient lighting, and cozy and private booths.

    Suzane C.

    Great flavors! The food was delicious. I especially enjoyed the lentil soup. The service was good. It was a bit loud when we were there. However, as people left, the noise level dropped. I would recommend.

    glass of Gruet Brut Rosè
    Chrissy E.

    Top Notch! This place has always been a favorite of mine and each visit always surpasses the last. I came here for an early dinner on Sunday and was the first person to arrive for their dinner service. I was seated promptly and immediately given water (always a plus). I took a gander at the menu prior to my arrival, so I knew I wanted a kebab of some sort. Once I got settled, the server came by and took my drink order. I sampled the sangria (which was quite tasty), but decided to go with a glass of Gruet Brut Rose. For dinner, I went with the mixed kebab and got shrimp and chicken. The glass of Rosè quickly arrived and it was smooth yet refreshing. It wasn't long until my food arrived and per usual, my eyes were bigger than my stomach. The shrimp was cooked and seasoned perfectly! The chicken was delicious as well, but let's be serious, would you expect anything less than perfection from Aya Sofia? When I finally had enough, the server came by and offered dessert. Much too full to partake, I kindly declined and he then brought out my check. This was a perfect way to end my Sunday with a restaurant all to myself, delicious food, and service that knocked it out of the park. I can't wait to come back and try more dishes!

    Sigara Boregi
    Kathleen A.

    I went with a friend on a Thursday night. It was a quiet night so we had great attentiveness from the staff. We split everything. Started with the hummus and housemade pitas and the Sigara Boregi (Crispy filo cigars with feta, ricotta, parsley and dill.) for the main course, we had the Manti (House made turkish dumplings stuffed with ground beef and fresh herbs, garlic yogurt sauce, browned butter). We did have dessert also (split) the baklava was delicious and so was the chocolate Turkish coffee toffee pudding! The room has a very sexy vibe. I see one of the owners is a designer, so no wonder. Love this cute neighborhood gem! Disappointed no belly dancer but I understand that when business is slower they don't have them come in...

    Sucuk and Eggs
    Wanda H.

    This place lives up to expectations! The food was GLORIOUS! Our service was a tad spotty, but overall friendly and efficient. We were a group of 10, having a Brunch Book Club, and everyone gave Aya top ratings. Ambiance is different from most places, and for that reason, nice. The most amazing part? Our server split the checks, no problem AND there wasn't a tip included in our checks. Not many places do THAT!

    Bloody Mary
    Shirley D.

    A group of about 10 of met for Sunday brunch at Aya Sofia. The brunch menu has both American and Greek breakfast items. Our waiters were very attentive although service was a tad bit slow. I ordered the Bloody Mary and the Vegetarian Omelet. Both were amazing and very well priced. My omelet came with fried potatoes, biscuit and fruit. I definitely recommend the brunch for both the deliciousness and price. We will be back to try the more traditional dishes on the menu.

    Turkish skillet
    MaryAnn B.

    Service was welcoming and attentive, and sincerely helpful. The restaurant is comfortable while not being too casual. Came for brunch. Most of the choices were "Americanized " with a few twists of Turkish items incorporated. Portions generous, delicious. Nice drink selection. Enjoyed the Bloody Mary !!

    Courtney S.

    I had not been to Aya Sofia since 2008 so I was very excited to have dinner with my bestie there. There is a small parking lot across from the front door. We were seated right away and it was good to know that they have brunch! I started off with Turkish Coffee and then Sigara Boreği. My bestie had Sarma. All of our appetizers were so savory and delicious. For my main course I had the Ottoman Burger. I loved the char on this really brought out the seasonings. My bestie had Şiş Kebap (swordfish and shrimp). Our service was amazing and I will try not to let 17 years get in between my visit to Aya Sofia!

    Main entrees!
    Shrimparoo H.

    This place was terrific! The service was impeccable. The food was amazing! Since this was our first visit, we asked the waiter for suggestions. We got something from three regions and shared. To top it off, we had their Dubai Chocolate. It was more like a piece of fudge. We sat outside and it was the perfect dining out experience! I have visited six other ethnic restaurants this week for my staycation and this was my favorite! P.S. The lemonade was truly refreshing and homemade!

    Fontaine C.

    Aya Sofia is an excellent date spot serving Turkish delicacy in St Louis. We were sitting indoors -- Love all the little booths with red curtains and pillows. Service is wonderful. Both our waitress and another server helps with the menu, water and drinks. We were so pleased. They have a wide food selection, both for meat lovers and vegetarians. What we love from our orders: 1. We tried the vegetarian moussaka. It's prepared with eggplant, roasted red peppers and a lot of vegetable goodness. This is light yet packed with lots of flavors. This is our favorite of the night. 2. our second favorite is an appetizer that has cheeses within a flour cigar. Love the melty cheese wrapped inside a crunchy wrap. 3. Toubouleh is very freshly made. We also tried the vegetarian pide and the hummus. Both are just alright -- something we perhaps won't order again. Regardless, we love this little spot we have discovered and we will be back.

    Baba Gannuş, Pepper Spread, Hummus trio

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    Alicia A.

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    Alicia A.

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    7 months ago

    Amazing food, and service too. I recommend it for anyone looking for kabobs and chicken

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    Alicia A.

    Thank you so much for your review Michele!

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    Page 1 of 10

    Ask the Community - Aya Sofia

    My wife is allergic to curry. Is this still a good option?

    Yes, this is Turkish food, which is not curry heavy.

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

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    Layali Halab

    Layali Halab

    4.6
    (88 reviews)
    8.2 mi

    This is my first time here, and I walked in very pleasantly surprised with the decor. Simple and…read moreyet, very charming, very Arabian. I read other reviews and immediately that I wanted to try their lemonade with mint, which was heavenly. It was extremely refreshing, not too sweet, not too sour, tiny chopped leaves of mint floating around like confetti. I ordered the lamb shank, a plate of pickles, and also ordered falafel and avocado dip to go. The lamb was very well seasoned and fall of the bone tender. The accompanying cucumber bits in yogurt sauce was refreshing. The side of mushrooms with carrots and corn kernels that came with the dish was mediocre, particularly since the consistency and look of the mushrooms looked like they came from a can, but I may be wrong. The plate of pickles was delightful. I will admit that I was very disappointed because I had read that lentil soup would be complementary with main dishes when anyone dined in until 4 PM, but I'd never had any lentil soup at all, unless I am mistaken about the offer. Service was fast, even though there was only one server, who was, by the way, very polite and attentive. All in all, I will be back and I might actually end up being regular here.

    Had the opportunity to try Layali Halab and was very impressed. We visited on a Saturday afternoon…read moreand seated without an issue. Our service was great, very patient in answering questions. The restaurant was very clean and very busy with customers. We were served lentil soup and was absolutely delicious. We ordered some traditional Mediterranean dishes and also very good. Prices were very reasonable and lots of dishes to chooses. Decor is very nice and plenty of seating for small and large groups. Great experience and will be back, highly recommend Layali Halab, give them a try.

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    Beef Shawarma Sandwich to go
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    Sultān Mediterranean Restaurant

    Sultān Mediterranean Restaurant

    4.7
    (547 reviews)
    3.8 mi
    $$

    Last night, I stopped by Sultan Mediterranean before heading over to Word Up at Hot Java Bar. I'm…read moreglad I joined the waitlist when I did, as the wait was a bit longer than expected even on the list. The ambiance inside was like a cozy cafe with Mediterranean vibes, especially at the register. We were seated and already knew what we wanted. I ordered an Arnold Palmer, and the mint in the lemonade was refreshingly delicious. For my meal, I opted for the Chicken and Beef Combo. The grilled chicken kabob was incredibly tasty, and the beef kabob was bursting with flavor. It was served with rice, grilled tomato, and a cucumber and tomato salad, all of which complemented the main dishes beautifully. The tzatziki sauce was some of the best I've had in the city. This place is always bustling, and I can see why. The food was absolutely delicious, and my leftovers were just as good as they were when I first ate them. I'm already looking forward to trying more of the menu on my next visit, which will be sooner rather than later since every dish I saw looked mouthwatering. If you're searching for a Mediterranean restaurant in The Grove, you've found it. The staff was also very friendly and attentive.

    Our little supper club came in for dinner on Saturday. They do not take reservations but the wait…read morewas worth it. Our party got there a little before 6. We waited around 20-30 minutes to get a table to accommodate the 7 people in our party. We stood around by the entrance while we waited. When we were finally seated, they put us on the second dining room which has a better ambiance and much more quieter than the main dining room. Someone brought us a pitcher of water which fell slightly short of giving all 7 of us full glasses. Some of us ordered their lemonade mix. I had the one with pomegranate which tasted fresh and made in house. We shared 3 different appetizers: babaganoush, hummus and saksuka. They brought us a basket of naan. They were huge and still warm. The only thing I would have asked for would have been that the naans be cut into smaller pieces so people are not touching naans that others will have to eat. Our appetizers were all excellent. The babaganoush, specifically has fantastic flavors. This might have been the best babaganoush I have ever tasted! For my entree, I ordered the lamb kabob served with some dressed rice and salad. Okay, usually I don't care for rice. It's bland and pretty boring but they actually seasoned their rice here so well that I've completely forgotten I was eating rice. The kabob was so flavorful like it has been marinating for a while. The meat was tender and juicy. We didn't do any dessert as we were all very full in the end. At least 4 out of 7 brought home leftovers. My one friend had made a comment about his pilau being larger than his head! Service was good. You pay up front. If you come in with a large party and ask to split the check, they charge $1 per card. We asked to have our bill split 7 ways and then 2, 2, 2 and 1. She said she understood but then did the math wrong anyway. We didn't bother and just paid the even quarter split and my friends refunded me the difference. Other than a few nuisances, it was a great dining experience. No joke, this place has some seriously good eats. And to be honest, I can't wait to come back!

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    Inside
    Inside
    Chicken biryani
    Chicken biryani
    Sultān Mediterranean Restaurant

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    Jafra Mediterranean Restaurant

    Jafra Mediterranean Restaurant

    4.9
    (376 reviews)
    19.0 mi
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    After living in the Middle East for decades, this restaurant is the closest in authenticity and the…read moreflavors I would expect in Lebanon/Palestine. It's delicious! The staff also offers the same personable service one would experience in the Middle East. They offer suggestions to the novice and indulge the connoisseur. Plus, I've used them for catering, for a more exotic flair, at an event. The guests raved about the taste. Jafra's location is hidden, making it feel like you've found a secret indulgence. It's a quiet location perfect for a tete a tete or a family gathering, where you feel wrapped in the experience. My husband will tell you, the only draw back is the price. It's not crazy expensive, but not cheap. But no matter what my husband says... it's worth every penny for delicious, exotic flavors that leave me satisfied, everytime. My husband too. LOL

    Amazing hidden gem in Saint Charles! This unassuming spot serves some of the best kibe I've ever…read morehad, perfectly seasoned and absolutely delicious. The Arabic coffee is a must‑order, and my chicken dish was full of flavor. Service is warm and attentive, and you can feel the hospitality from this Palestinian family‑owned restaurant. Cozy ambiance, great food, and genuinely kind people. I'll definitely be back to try more dishes.

    Photos
    Falafel, yogurt dip w/feta cheese, tabbouleh salad, baba ganoush, hummus, muhamara, mint tea.
    Falafel, yogurt dip w/feta cheese, tabbouleh salad, baba ganoush, hummus, muhamara, mint tea.
    Hummus with shawarma (small)
    Hummus with shawarma (small)
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    J's Pitaria

    J's Pitaria

    4.7
    (323 reviews)
    5.4 mi
    $$

    I'd heard great things about this place and had been wanting to try it for a while. We ended up…read moregoing as a group when a friend was visiting from out of town. I didn't realize it was quite so far away, but it was worth checking out. Overall, I really enjoyed The Berliner with chicken, and the fresh Somun Bread & Kajmak was also a standout. The food was flavorful, and everyone in our group seemed to enjoy their meal. The only downside was that several of us ended up with upset stomachs afterward. That said, no one had anything negative to say about the food itself, and overall it was still a positive dining experience.

    I am truly disappointed after my recent visit for a late lunch. Service was prompt and my order…read morearrived at my table quickly. I ordered the Doner Salad, Hummus appetizer, and a Diet Coke. As always, the food is simply delicious. What really pissed me off? Upon leaving, I asked for a container to take most of it home because it was too much to eat. The young woman served me a brown cardboard wax-coated box to dump everything in. She said, "Will this do?" No bag to carry it home or prevent the 2 oz. Soufflé cup Olive Oil, and partially full- 2 oz. Soufflé cup of Tzatziki. I asked if I could get an extra 2 oz. portion of Tazatziki. The young woman looked at me rudely and as if she would be terribly inconvenienced, she said "We charge extra for that!" I replied "Just FORGET it!" She was very attentive to a table of females behind me who were obnoxiously loud! I regret I left her a tip after spending $40.00 + for lunch. Your To-go orders include very fancy packaging in orange bag, oversized white plastic bag. I'm a sure an extra 2.0 oz portion of Tazatziki wouldn't break your piggy bank and cost a helluva lot less. Truly disappointing snd pathetic. If you want similar, delicious cuisine and nicer service, spend your money at Balkin Treat Box. At least you won't be rudely, mistreated by arrogant, lazy "Millennial" wait-staff.

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    The Berliner
    The Berliner
    Stuffed Flatbread
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    Esca

    Esca

    4.5
    (106 reviews)
    4.8 mi

    A real treat yo self experience is to be had at this restaurant by the Bengelina Hospitality Group…read more Recommendations: At this coastal Mediterranean restaurant we enjoyed the Stracciatella consisting of grilled grapes, rosemary almonds, and aged balsamic and the shrimp oreganata as starters. For the grilled over charcoal portion of the menu, we enjoyed the the Denver steak and skirt steak. For the side, you can't go wrong with the fire baked potato with truffle fonduta. Dessert: The limoncello tiramisu is delightful and fresh. The homemade chocolate truffles are made by Chef's mom and are a must try menu item. Ambiance: Warm and intimate with great music playing in the background. Staff: Ellie was knowledgeable, friendly, and provided excellent recommendations. Jonathan's keen sense of hospitality and operational excellence further enhances the restaurant experience.

    I was excited to try Esca after friends were raving about it. My husband and I dined here for our…read moreanniversary meal, and I wish we would have chosen a place with a little more enthusiasm and less pretension. The server seemed annoyed with being there, never asked my husband if he wanted a refill, took forever to check on us, and messed up the bill, which I didn't catch until after signing it. I've been to plenty of fine dining restaurants where our server has introduced themselves and asked about the occasion, and this place did none of that. Esca has the service of a fast casual restaurant- zero rapport with the customer. Oh and I was charged a 20% service fee. Super tacky to do that for a table of two at a nice restaurant. Bruschetta was such a small portion and flavorless. The artichokes claimed to have anchovy but my husband said he couldn't taste any, so he essentially got a tiny $20 artichoke as an appetizer. My $16 spritz was so loaded with ice I had maybe three sips of the actual drink. I noticed every other table had bread service but we weren't offered any. Our dinner was finished and I finally asked our server for bread. The best part of my meal was the gelato with olive oil, that's it. I don't think I'll spend the $$ again at this place. It's such a bummer because I had high hopes for a stellar Mediterranean meal.

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    Esca's interior
    Esca's interior
    Shaved veal with tuna sauce capers and croutons
    Shaved veal with tuna sauce capers and croutons
    Espresso Martini for dessert

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    Espresso Martini for dessert

    Aya Sofia - turkish - Updated August 2026

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