I live in Soulard but was in Clayton every morning a couple weeks back and ended up eating here 3…read moretimes because I really liked the food and service. I initially visited this place because it's a rare downtown restaurant with great street parking so I always knew I could find a spot (huge plus!). My first visit I tried the blackberry cheesecake stuffed French toast but It didn't seem like it was truly stuffed with any cheesecake. It had some on top though and the flavor was still great, just a bit dry. I should've gotten a bit of syrup on the side. I washed it down with an iced French toast latte that was crazy good so I ordered one to go. Finally my server was Molli and she was just perfect. Sweet, talkative, and attentive -- oh and to top it off she saved my butt after I left my credit card there. I hope she sees this because I appreciate her! The next two times I visited that week I was craving oatmeal and they delivered in an elevated fashion. Their banana walnut oatmeal is decadent. I love boring oatmeal at home but it doesn't have to be boring. Half & Half elevates this humble dish into an incredibly tasty experience. I can't get oatmeal at other places now! I washed it down with some OJ that was just alright. It doesn't taste like it's freshly squeezed in house like other breakfast spots in Clayton but it's hardly a complaint. I will visit this warm and cozy spot many times over.

This year, when thinking about where I wanted to go to celebrate my birthday, it was a really quick…read moredecision for me to make. I knew Half & Half was the only place on my mind! For some reason, the waitlist online was not available so we could not get on the list ahead of time so I am not sure if they took that down or if they just turned it off or what. But that didn't bother me because I was willing to wait if needed. Where Half & Half is located is on a really busy street in Clayton and you really only have the option to find a street parking spot. Maybe you get lucky and find one out front? Or maybe you are like me and need to park 4-5 blocks away and take a little walk. Either way, you can find parking if you are willing to walk a bit. Upon arriving, there were already a ton of people waiting to be seated so I already knew it would be a wait. I talked with the hostess and added my name (party of 2) to the list and was told it would be about 30-45 minutes wait. The restaurant is not very large, so on a cold day, I did not want to wait outside. Instead, I was able to find a little spot in the corner near the bar and just tried to take up as little space as possible while waiting. Eventually, I received the text that our table was ready and so we made our way to the hostess stand (had to make out way through crowds of people who were also waiting) and then the hostess walked us over to our booth for two. It was just perfect for us. Tim, our server came over right away to greet us and offered us coffee or other drinks. Once we ordered, he gave us some time to review the menu and went on his way to grab our drinks. When he came back, we were ready to order, and, of course, I think I had a difficult order, but Tim made it possible and wasn't even bothered by request. I really just wanted a smaller portion of the Clara cake (to share) and then I asked for a scrambled egg and some turkey bacon. I thought this would be a complicated order, but he made it work and I am so grateful for that. My hubby ordered one of the hash bowls with steak. While waiting for our food, we enjoyed coffee and Tim made sure our cups were filled. He even brought over some bailey's for the coffee for my hubby to add since I ordered a mimosa as my cocktail of choice. When the food came out, it was all so fresh and delicious. I legit love the Clara cake so much and it really made my birthday super special! The eggs were super fluffy and the turkey sausage was also good. Since I did not finish my meal, Tim offered to bring over a box and a bag and then he made sure we were all set before he gave us the bill. Since the restaurant was still super busy, we did not hang out for much longer after paying. Instead, we paid, packed up and were out the door. Honestly, the food is always my favorite here. But this visit was even extra awesome since Tim took such good care of us. Servers are busy and I appreciated how he took good care of us. Thanks to Half & Half for the delicious meal and thanks to Tim for the service! I'll be back.

We look forward to Restaurant Week (RW) every year as an opportunity to enjoy a special dinner at a…read morelocal spot we've never visited. 5 of us came from St Charles County and were delighted with our experience at Cafe La Vie (located within the La Meridien Hotel, parking underground). The cocktail menu and RW menu were fabulous, and yet bringing it all to life with effusive knowledge and enthusiasm about the various dishes was our outstanding server, Corinthian. She shared interesting and incredible insight on each offering, making us feel valued and appreciated patrons, advising based on our interests and likes to help us make decisions. Each of us was pleased with our various selections. While the soups were tempting on a cold night, I was delighted with the French-inspired Lyonnaise salad complete with a perfectly prepared soft boiled egg. My panko-encrusted swordfish with burre Blanc sauce was light and tasty. The gooey butter beignets were light on the gooey butter custard-like filling, as promised by our server (and more special than the typical St. Louis dessert), sprinkled with powdered sugar and drizzled with chocolate. The ample dessert (3) provided take home leftovers for delicious breakfast treats. The cocktails I enjoyed included a Japanese Old Fashioned & an Espresso Martini, both very good. Initially upon arrival, an adjacent table of younger women was unusually loud (in a space that doesn't absorb noise well) that I feared would spoil our evening; rather than approach them (tempted) or engage management, I glared a few times at them and it seemed to have resolved. Overall, this was a very enjoyable, comfortable, and satisfying dinner; we would return.

Ambiance - hey, it's part of the Le Meridien Hotel, and guess what?we were staying there! We seated…read moreourselves at the bar and I quickly ordered a Kolsch local brew while hubby ordered a Stella 0.0 beer - we weren't TOO hungry but still - we ordered up a menu and dived in! I ordered a smoked turkey soup while hubby ordered up his signature French Onion soup - we also ordered up a 1/2 charcuterie board - good news? The soups were just great, really. We ate 'em up quickly! The charcuterie board? Ok - where to start? The salami and prosciutto were great. The cheddar cheese was way too basic and (dare I say) a couple pieces were hardening up- yikes! Fresh it was not. The other cheese was unable to be ID'd and was kind of "bread like" - not good. But the bread (crostini)? Oh my goodness- hard as a rock. Not good at all. So we ate up the meat, some of the cheddar - and left most of that funky cheese and that hard bread. The hummus and fig spread was great, though - so no issues there. Hmm. So this was a mixed bag. But the surprise came - partly my fault, I know - I asked for a shot of their most expensive Scotch on the rocks. I should have asked the price - just over $100 for a shot! We didn't know this and only wish the bartender would have asked me to confirm the order by saying "the one I have is over $100/shot - are you sure you want it!" - but that didn't happen, darn it. So we paid up - and I swore never to order nothing but basic Scotch going forward! So - the soups and beers were great - but we suggest staying away from the charcuterie board until the bread and cheese selections are tweaked a bit more!

Stopped in for breakfast on a Saturday morning and it was great! We got coffee, a smoothie, scone &…read moreI enjoyed the avocado toast while my friend got the breakfast sandwich. Everything was fantastic -- the smoothie wasn't overwhelmingly sweet and all the food was really good. Food presentation was pretty too! It was a little busy, so there was a short line, but it moved pretty quick. You order at the counter and they bring the food to you. The staff was friendly and though there was a bit of a wait for our food, I think the ambiance was perfect for a slow Saturday morning. Can't wait to come back and try different things!

Great place for breakfast. My friend is currently obsessed with their scones which did look good…read more No scone for me, I got the soft scramble. Still not sure why it is called soft but it was delicious. 2 eggs on bed of arugula with avocado and toast on the side. I also got golden milk latte which was good. Loved my food and drink but prefer if portions were slightly larger. FYI- order at counter then they bring food to table.

Everything I have ordered here has been fantastic. I love the new space with the bright and sunny…read moreyellow walls. Service was great too.

Checked out the new Songbird location and overall had a good experience. The new space is really…read morebig, though the parking lot is still pretty small, but plenty of street parking! We sat by the window and it was HOT. Like sweating-through-brunch hot. The rest of the restaurant seemed cool and comfortable, so maybe just avoid that area if it's sunny out. Food was good overall. I liked the chicken sausage and the signature sandwich. I also got the seasonal maple iced latte, it was a little more savory than I was expecting, but still good. The carrot French toast didn't blow me away, I wasn't super impressed. Our waitress was very nice and attentive! No complaints One thing to note for parents: no high chairs, so just know that going into the experience! There'd benches against the walls, which they may be able to accommodate for you, if you call ahead

I loveeee pastaria!! It's dangerous how close I live because I do frequent this place often and I…read morecan't believe I hadn't left a review yet! I pop in for gelato frequently, but I also enjoy the pistachio raviolis a lot. You really can't go wrong with any pasta choice, and I haven't tried their pizza but it looks and smells amazing. I usually enjoy my dinner with a glass of wine -- they have a great selection. If it's nice out, we try to sit outside. I do recommend getting a reservation because they get really busy during peak dinner hours! The staff is always friendly, from the hostess to the waiters to the bartenders, I've never had a bad experience. Highly recommend this place!

What a great find in Clayton. Was in town visiting my daughter and was looking for a causal spot…read morewith good food. I stumbled across Pastaria and was immediately drawn to the place. I sat at the bar and was immediately greeted and given a menu. I ordered the Citrus Salad and Fried Risotto Balls. OMG the risotto balls are something that cannot be passed up. Simply amazing. The salad was so good, could have used a touch of acid but was superb. The service was top notch and will not only be coming back but recommending Pastaria to anyone that I like. The restaurant vibe is fantastic. Welcoming and hopping but not too loud that you couldn't hear yourself think.

The food and service were great, but for the third time in a row it was so loud eating dinner at…read moreIvy Cafe we could hardly hear ourselves speak. This was way beyond the noise level of a lively and energetic atmosphere. Everyone in the small restaurant was yelling to be able to hear themselves and each other. I strongly suggest they look into acoustic treatments for the restaurant.

In a nutshell, great service, comfortable surroundings and excellent food. What more could you…read morepossibly want? Today was a quick in and out but thought anyone reading this might enjoy these words.... I tried the Morning Salad (mixed greens, grilled avocado, tomatoes and 2 scrambled eggs) and the Crispy Potatoes (crispy bacon and cheese). Wow....a most excellent combination if there ever was one. Don't ever sleep on Ivy's drink game. Their food is ridiculously good, but their drink menu is right up there. The Hyde is somewhat of an Ivy Margarita inspiration and YOU need to try it. Okay, I'm going to ask for some grace regarding my pictures as I was taking my last bites, when I realized I forgot to shoot the plates untouched. Oh well, as the immortal Prince says.....'Dig if you will, this picture.....'

In spite of the Toast app, we are seated. I really like the people here and the omelets are…read moreespecially yummy! I knew it was going to be a problem when they changed how reservations are made and waitlists are "maintained" Well, I'm fairly certain that First Watch is pleased that The Original Pancake House has made this uninformed decision. Regular diners here should know the decision was not made in Missouri. Obviously! The staff the menu and the ambiance is not negatively affected. So, stick with your favorite choices. And let the staff know we understand. Brunch was excellent. Service was prompt. Very good choice for breakfast, brunch, or lunch! It's all as it should be in here.

Service The manager almost spoiled my dining experience. If…read moreit wasn't for our waiter saving the day. First we had to wait about 45mins to get a table. We had a party of 4 but manager wouldn't seat us until the 4th person came into the building. It's petty because each table seats 2, 4 & 6+ It didn't make sense. So if you're dining here and your party is sitting in the car or outside YOU WILL NOT BE SEATED UNTIL EVERYONE IS AT THE HOSTESS STATION, smh. Waiter Service Our waiter was Sam. I think he was one of the best waiters I've ever had at this restaurant. Sam had knowledge about all the new items on the menu. He made sure our dining experience was great. Food Our waiter Sam suggested the NEW Banana Bread Griddle Cakes because I love their Banana pancakes. The Banana Bread Cakes came with caramel sauce but I love their Tropical syrup. I did try a small amount of caramel sauce and it tasted homemade, very good. The Cakes were fluffy with slightly crispy edges. The texture is dense almost like pound cake. The flavor is slightly sweet but not overly sweet like cake. I felt like it was missing one ingredient maybe the caramel sauce was the missing ingredient. There's no banana on the inside like the original banana pancakes. It's like banana bread. The Banana Griddle Cakes is a one & done for me. I love the original banana pancakes. The Spinach Feta Omelette & Banana pancakes is my go to order every time. The last couple of times I ordered the omelette I noticed their using a smaller amount of ingredients but it's still yummy.

My coffee was really good, it came out really quick, perfect temperature and there was some good…read moreseasonal things on the menu. The staff was super nice and friendly and I appreciate the good customer service. It was pretty clutch how it was within a mile from my hotel and I will return. Thanks for the delicious coffee and pick me up before my work event. They have food, a kids menu they have pastries. They have desserts and sweets. They have a lot of good options and got a good table space here.

My wife and I have been coming to the living room since we started dating over a decade ago. Over…read moretime the restaurant has expanded but kept the same great service. The new (ish) expansion was a great move. The restaurant space is open and bright with ample room to spread out. The menu has a good mixture. My favorite is the wingspan breakfast. It is a medium boiled egg, bacon, and a peppery biscuit. I get it every time. They also make good drinks and I'm partial to their chais. Overall it is a great neighborhood coffee shop. .

I've been to this creperie a few times with my mom for mother's day and other occasions and I've…read moreenjoyed my experience. Finding a parking spot in that location can be tricky since it's a busy area and there only seems to be street parking. The wait time can be pretty long, but the crepes there are pretty good.

City Coffee & Creperie is such a gem, especially in the Clayton area! They have a beautiful plus…read moreindoor patio as well, so it's always a hit for me no matter what. The service is pretty quick too even when busy. I always get the Santa Fe crepe!! The flavors are absolutely immaculate, and it's perfect for sharing with friends. The menu is so diverse, with so many flavors and toppings, both sweet and savory crepes. Honestly, it's one of my favorite go-to spots, and I highly recommend it! Just note that parking can get tricky since the area is super busy.

Akar is easily one of my top three favorite restaurants. The atmosphere is calming, cool, and…read moreperfect for a relaxed date night out. Every bite of the food was delicious. I ordered the Thai drunken noodles, and they were spicy, well-balanced, and full of flavor. The service was also very nice and made the experience even better. Parking can be a little tricky, but it's absolutely worth it. I came here for a date night, and it was the perfect spot. Definitely a place I'll keep coming back to and keep recommending.

Akar was one of the best fine-dining experiences I've had in St. Louis. With a small, intimate…read moredining room, Akar feels both cozy and elevated and is a great spot for celebrating a special occasion. With such a small dining room, service is very attentive and it doesn't get too loud. All of the food is delicious and beautifully plated: truly a delight for the senses.