This place is really neat inside, love the beer selection. Prices were a little high maybe but no big deal, it's the middle of Kirkwood. Unfortunately I have to give two stars because while we were there, one employee that actually seemed like the owner or a manager, was pretty rude to some other customers. And these were customers that were paying for a somewhat large, well behaved group. We were surprised. I don't know what kind of a business strategy that is, maybe reverse psychology. Anyway, it is a cool place, and one incident doesn't make a restaurant, but it does make one review and I had to post because of that. Definitely others won't have the same experience, but we will not be going back. They must not need the business that badly. read more

There are a lot of rather middling restaurants in kirkwood so I was very pleasantly surprised when this place turned out to be very good. We came at a bit of an off time but had exceptional service. My husband had a delicious and generously portioned fish and chips sandwich (it was huge). I had a Burger. I really wasnt expecting much but it was juicy and flavorful despite the fact I ordered it medium well (I know I know). Everything was tasty, the atmosphere was very pleasant and the staff were great. read more

Bistro is an old stalwart, back in the day when it was in Sunset Hills and now housed in a retirement complex, albeit a classy retirement complex. Unfortunately it has aged like many of its customer base, me included. Priced right but ordinary, it's the place to go for a decent pour, good service and, with careful consideration, a decent meal. The entrance, with its empty spaces and poorly utilized wine showcase reminded me of a house halfway packed for a move. The bar, one of Bob Mendez's(sp) signature items, is now kinda shabby. The food was disappointing except for the special, seared Mahi Mahi. read more

We held our family celebration for my father's 90th birthday at Sunset 44.The group was 30 adults and 14 kids. The space was perfect. We used the audio visual and had photographs and remembrances displayed. The meal was dinner salad, pork with chutney, with kids having chicken and sweet potato fries. All were served hot and delectable. Service was great. They were there when you needed them but not intrusive. There was a mix up on the cake - we didn't order one - but the staff pulled off a last minute substitution that saved the day. The space allowed the kids to run around and have fun without making the parents crazy. Over all everyone had a great time! read more

Could not love this place more! The wine pours are top notch, the happy hour menu in the bar cannot be beat! I am extremely picky over my food and the way it is prepared and they always accommodate my needs. We have hosted multiple parties there and even had Christmas Eve dinner with our family. Will continue to go back, great family run business!! read more

Sunset 44 is a true hidden gem. The atmosphere is relaxed yet intimate. Our waiter, Blake was attentive and friendly. The braised short rib ravioli was one of the best ravioli dishes I've ever eaten. I would definitely recommend dining here and look forward to trying the other dishes on the menu. read more

We hadn't been to Sunset 44 for a long time but we remembered how comfortable it was. We met two friends for dinner and it was so so nice to be able to talk with them without having to shout. The restaurant is quiet and relaxing which is a wonderful change from so many restaurants that are loud. Sunset 44 is full of older people which, I think, is a great sign....good food, respectful servers, good prices and satisfying experience are all the things older people are drawn to. Our server was very personable and fast, the entrees were really good, the owner came over and explained the wine list to us when we asked a question, and again it was so quiet. read more

Ok, yes this review is long overdue. It is for our Mother's day experience. Pros: great wine list Cons: the food, TV, service So we went there for Mother's day, because everything else was booked. This place was PACKED!!!. we still had to wait 20 min for our table with reservations. PISS ME OFF. We sit down, and there is a TV in the dinning room. in the bar I can understand, but in the dinning room of a supposed fine dinning restaurant [(TACKY)that is a complaint I have of St. Louis establishment's there are always TV's everywhere, WHY? I like to talk to friends, shoot the sh**, you know chill, if I want TV I will go home or to a sports bar to check out the game)] . I am back, sorry. so this is a buffet, but even with the buffet I, took forever to get a cup of coffee, I mean seriously, WTF are you doing? You can't get me a cup of coffee in a reasonable time? As for the food, the eggs were overcooked, the desserts were frozen, out of a box, biscuits and gray were OK. There was a large selection, but I was not overly impressed, for what we paid. Because of this experience, I don't think I will visit for regular service, sorry. read more

the food here is very good. our server Karen was nice effecient and friendly. Food came out hot and fresh although my rib eye was a little more than well done when I ordered it medium but that being said you could cut it with a butter knife so I did not complain. We have hosted a couple of banquets here in the past and they were always accomodating and friendly. Yes it is a bit pricey but well worth the trip. read more

Our experience at Sunset 44 Mother's Day Brunch was a disaster, seating was quite crowded and late, owner was surly when asked about timing and the food was overcooked and not tasty at all. Will not be going back for any special occasion. read more

Went to the Mother's day buffet. What a disappointment, food was cold, not the best selection. For $37.00 a person expected to have eggs made to order. They were overcrowded And not setup for this. Could have done better at Denny's. The food was about the same. It's a shame, because I have had their regular menu and it's been excellent. read more

Found this gem when I was googling places to take my dad for Father's Day dinner. So I went online to the website and checked it out looked like a great place to have a nice family dinner. I made reservations online and received a confirmation email shortly after. Then today I received a reminder email about our reservations and the option to edit/cancel if need be. We parked in the lot next to the bistro. The outside is misleading as to what is actually inside. That being said you will not be disappointed once you walk in! The inside is very clean and nice. The wine selection is amazing and the pretty neat how you can see all the wine. They do have a small bar if you aren't wanting to sit down at a table/booth. We were greeted right away I told them I had reservations and we were seated promptly. Waters were brought out right away and our waitress came over and greeted us and told us about the kids menu and the specials of for the night. My daughter who is almost 9 obviously went for the chicken fingers and fries. My dad had the pork tenderloin special and I had the bistro steak special. We both really enjoyed our food. The truffle mashed potatoes were amazing and the vegetables were cooked perfectly! While we waited for our food we were served a flat bread almost cracker like bread with a aged cheddar with a hint of beer spread and butter. We also were served rolls once our food cane. Our waitress was very attentive and nice. She over heard us talking about ice cream after dinner so she didn't hassle us about dessert she did offer us coffee though! I believe the owner came over and asked us about our food etc and explained to me what was in the marinade they used for my steak. It was simple and totally something I would use at home. The food and service is too notch! I will definitely be bringing my husband here for a date night dinner and have told tel of my girlfriends about this place already because they will love it to. It's was worth the risk of trying out a new place. I was no disappointment and honestly the ambiance, food, service etc was worth what I paid for dinner which surprisingly was not as expensive as it seemed like it should be! This is a place you can go to dressed up or dress casual. I can't wait to come back! read more

The service was good but the food was overpriced and nothing spectacular. My salad had more dressing than lettuce and the steak had to have a lot of frills because the meat didn't stand out in it's own. The prices were way too high for the food. While the service was good, the server's decision to add a 20% gratuity based on the total (not the subtotal) and then not explain that she didn't run the credit cards to include the tip was poor form. She had to chase us down afterward and said that their system doesn't add it on. At least that explains why it was handwritten onto the bill. I am a generous tipper but found this to be off putting and a bit odd that if this is the restaurant's policy that their system doesn't do it for them. I doubt I will go back. Food wasn't worth the price. read more

My husband and I dined here for the first time last night to celebrate his birthday. Here's the breakdown! Atmosphere- This restaurant seems to be disjointed. I really liked the ambiance and feel in the bar area and a small seating area connecting to the main dining area. For some reason, I wasn't feeling it in the main dining area (where we sat). I guess that's the idea and maybe we should have asked to sit in a different area. Part of it may have to do with the fact that we were the youngest people in the place by about 40 years. We could hear the commotion in the kitchen, which was weird because it didn't seem like we were that close to it. Next time I would request to be seated elsewhere. Service- Our waitress was alright, she just seemed a little out of place. She broke a dish on the floor, and overall was a bit sloppy. She was nice enough though, and checked on us an adequate amount. Food- I loved the fact that there was the option to order petite serving, which upon arrival to our table seemed laughable. But once I started eating, it was the perfect amount of food! I ordered the Cedar Plank Salmon and my husband ordered the Crab Cakes. My salmon was delicious and crab cakes decent. However, our sides were just OK. Also my husband's salad seemed straight out of a bag. We were pleasantly surprised at the end of the meal when our server brought us 2 mini chocolate fudge cookies. Mmmmm! The perfect end to the meal! I might try this place again for drinks/appetizers or I could see a mother's day brunch here, but overall our dining experience wasn't that memorable. Maybe we will give it another try, because I really want to like this place! read more

Unremarkable, bland food. Brought a group of 12+ people for special occasion. Food portions are small, (especially for the price of $20+ per dinner entree). By the time the food came out to the group, half the dinners were cold. I suppose because they cater to a senior living building above them, they have managed to stay in business. We have a special event planned for this location in a few weeks for an elderly relative. I already feel sorry for our group. Another round of over priced, dreadfully bland, cold food - coming right up! read more

A consistently wonderful venue for any occasion! Bob Menendez is a class act and hires excellent folks to fulfill your every wish. The food is superb! read more

Well this review may not set will with the regulars, because it's going to talk about a fantastic "somewhat sleeper" in the heart of Kirkwood and it may upset their balance. Its does not have a Billy G's patio, Bar Louie, or couple of others in the Kirkwood Area (but only nice in summer time) But here is what it does have. Years and years in business. That personal touch, Bob is usually there, if not other family members. Eloquence, great food, a slightly small intimate lounge. Great bar pours. Family owned and managed restaurant. Is it a little different then say Billy G's or Bar Louie, you bet. Want to make an impression, date, business or other wise, want to hold a conversation, or talk to your other favorite. (even when the regulars are in the lounge, (who will probalby invite you to join them,) Then don't pass up an opportunity to visit Sunset 44. No I am not a family member or receiving compension for review. Just like the place for years. read more

There are so many better places to eat in St. Louis to pay high prices for bland food at Sunset 44. Seriously, go somewhere else unless you like nursing home-like food at a bistro price. Why? The steak was flavorless and you could probably do just as good at Applebee's. Their fries come frozen in a bag and you can get better ones at McDonalds. They have butter waiting at your table but have to tell every table that they don't bring bread out until later. The manager is indifferent to his customers preferences that he never asked why I had my salmon returned twice. So once again, unless you're in your twilight or "Sunset" years please try somewhere else. read more

Excellent meal excellent end to the day! The October specials are fantastic! Wait staff exemplary. With a party of nine we walked in Saturday night tried , late and disappointed our first pick that eve had turned us away. The staff here more than made up for it! Autumn was friendly fast and handled our rag tag bunch like a true pro. The kitchen produced an excellent meal. I recommend trying out what for me is a new favorite. read more

The service was okay. The chicken for 2 of us was undercooked and very pink. The waiter took it back and they seemingly put it in the microwave and brought back the same chicken, still not fully cooked. The dinner was not comped and it was not Offered to fix the problem at all. We will not be returning and do not recommend this restaurant. read more

My family & I went to Sunset 44 Bistro for our Christmas Eve dinner with such high hopes, we were so excited because it sounded great online though I could only give the restaurant one star because some of our meals were great, but he service was the worst we've ever received at any restaurant. The place wasn't busy at all & our food took forever. When my husband mentioned something to our server, she said it's been a rough week, but she didn't apologize. Gwen, our server, never once came over to ask how things were, she brought our food & left. I've never been more disappointed in a server before this!!!!! One of the items I wanted I wanted to try was the Bread Pudding, but was never offered the chance! We were never given the chance to get dessert, Gwen never asked if we'd like any ! However, we did hear another server offer the Bread Pudding to another table. Gwen was horrible at customer service!!!! read more

Our friends think we spend $10,000.00/year at this restaurant because we dine there often. Why? My husband and I get wholesome food made from scratch ... everything is homemade at Sunset 44! "Everything" means every single item on the menu from the sour dough bread to the lavosh to the spreadable cheese that goes on it; not to mention all of the printed menu items and the unpredictable daily specials; and, let's not forget the delicious and to-die-for dessert items. Even if you are too fulfilled for dessert, Mr. Bob Menendez and his staff ensure you never leave without having a treat for your sweet tooth! This is a family-run neighborhood restaurant with the third and fourth generations of Menendez' meeting diners at the door and visiting all the way to and at your table; this is quickly followed by conscientious staff pleasantly delivering water and taking drink orders and bringing a very liberal "pour" of your beverage of choice; staff are attentive to your needs from the time the specials are briefed to you to the time you complete your meal and request your check. Over time, we have ordered everyone of the "starter", along with the "classics" and "seafood" items - all are very tasty! Always, we split the goat-cheese with mixed greens salad, which is simply delicious! Seldom do either of us order flat-bread because we are "occasional" pizza fans. Fish items are cooked to perfection and not smothered in sauces like you find in many other "fine dining" establishments. The crab cakes are THE BEST in the St. Louis area! There is nothing like Sunset 44's brunches ... we are there every year on Easter and Mother's Day! You'll not find a better "spread" anywhere - the price is in line with the varied and numerable breakfast-lunch items ... offerings range from prawns to beef tenderloin to egg dishes, salads, vegetables, and f.a.b.u.l.o.u.s desserts. If ever in the Kirkwood or surrounding area, you are in for a treat if you dine at Sunset 44! Try it, you'll love it and you'll gravitate toward it each time you are in the mood for a home-cooked and delectable meal with a comfortable environment and gracious personnel. read more

A friend was celebrating her birthday at happy hour here on Friday night. I arrived around 6:30 and was happy to see happy hour specials were going on until 7pm ($2 domestic beers, $3 craft beers, $4 wells, $5 (heavy pour) glass of wine, and half-price select appetizers). I knew I would be staying awhile and was very happy the bartender allowed me to double-fist in an effort to save some cash! We split some appetizers, fried zucchini which was breaded to perfection and served with chipotle and a cheese dipping sauces. We also ordered margharita flatbread which was a huge portion, toasted ravioli the size of your head, and the crab cake. The appetizers came out quickly and were a welcome change from normal happy hour bar fare as the chefs at Sunset 44 definitely stepped them up a notch. With the comfortable and "homey" bar atmosphere happy hour turned into leaving at 11p and we had a fantastic night! I would like to go back and try the restaurant next time, but the bar is somewhere I can see myself more often! read more

I was really surprised to see there were 2 & 3 ratings! I have been here 1-2 times per year for probably the last 10 years. I always look forward to going too because I know without question I'm going to have a good meal. The happy hour prices are great when the budget's a little tighter and when I'm able to splurge, there's always a delicious Special available. Their crab cakes are among the best I've had in St. Louis or anywhere! Great wine list and knowledgable and friendly wait staff. I definitely recommend this gem. read more

so, my husband and i had a GC here... and we were pleasantly surprised about the whole evening... they let us bring our dog, and opened the back patio for us.... when we arrived there was a lone table with a white table cloth and candle gleaming... it was like we had our own private dinner with waiter service. the lettuce wraps were divine. my husband enjoyed his wine. and it was truly special and unique. Our only qualm is the quality of the dessert menu. we couldn't find anything on there we wanted. wah. otherwise. it was great. read more

Great place for lunch or dinner. They have great food and wonderful service. Downtown Kirkwood location but parking is easy to find. We had a party of 5 and everyone was well pleased. You won't go wrong with the Lobster roll. read more

Yesterday my wife and I took my mom to the Bistro Sunset 44 in Kirkwood, MO. Amazing place. Personal, comfortable - even classy. Our waitress, Vickie, was training Brian (?), but that did not interfere with the world class service we received. We've dined at Bistro Sunset 44 in the past a few times, and now, I wonder what took us so long to return? Great food (try the Sunset Prosperity Sandwich!). Great wine list, great menu and great service. read more

Recently met with a large group of friends for dinner at Sunset 44 Restaurant and had a wonderful meal of Cedar plank smoked salmon with vanilla sweet potatoes and vegetable medly. Yum! Many appetizers were shared among the group: toasted ravs (better and bigger than most, and very tender & tasty), crab cakes, and chicken bites with sweet chili sauce were my favorites. Other diners at our table ordered entrees of bacon-wrapped sea scallops (huge!), steaks that looked mouth-wateringly good, pasta and chicken. Everyone enjoyed their meals and we were served by a wonderful young lady, Crystal who was a very attentive waitress and entertaining, as well. We thoroughly enjoyed our evening and were not rushed to vacate the table, as some places do. Would definitely go again. read more

Needed a private room for a family gathering. They were easy to work with. Friendly and helpful. The room was comfortable and nicely tucked away. Although I was a little concerned about the food from reading past comments, it was fantastic. The best I can figure is those past reviews are from a time when the cuisine was much different. The quality and variety of their food exceeded our expectations. read more

This place is fantastic. The grilled chicken sandwich was the best I have ever had. The Asian slaw was absolutely delicious. You must visit and try it yourself. read more

Every time we visit the food and service at both great. Highly recommend. The crab cakes are so yummy!

My family and I ate here to celebrate our Christmas Eve dinner. I was very disappointed to have selected this restaurant given the occasion we were celebrating. Service was very poor. Our server, Gwen, was inattentive and slow. We waited for very long periods for our food and drinks and when we commented about the length of time we had waited for our dinner, Gwen's comment was "It's been a rough weekend". She wasn't apologetic nor did she attempt to increase her attention. After our meal she didn't bother to offer us dessert, which we had wanted to order initially. We ended up deciding to leave rather than having to ask to be offered dessert and due to the wait time it would've taken to get dessert. The only reason this review gets two stars is because the food was actually very good. However, in saying that, I think overall the food was over priced. I will not be returning to this restaurant nor would I recommend it to others. read more

Sunset is one of our all-time favorites. The owner - Bob - is nearly always there, friendly and attentive. Atmosphere is low-key and quiet enough for an adult conversation. Elegant enough for a date-nite, but not stuffy or pretentious. The lavosh is a welcome starter while you decide on drinks and entrees. Nice wine list - Bob annually sends staff to the California wine region for sampling and training, and often stocks great "finds" that you can buy by the case for you home collection. Tough to choose between their daily special house-made soups and the consistently delicious house salad. Favorite entrees include the crab cakes (get the aioli on the side - it has some bite), fried chicken, teriyaki chicken and salmon. My husband and father-in-law rate their Sunset Burger as the best in town. End your meal with tiny dark chocolate cookies right from the oven. Sunset never disappoints. read more

I have to admit I've only been here for lunch but I've always had great food and service. The only drawback is the table towards the back has a loud humming noise coming from the back wall, like their furnace or equipment is behind there. Otherwise, nice looking interior and great food. Prices for lunch are reasonable as well. read more

We dine here every few months and have never had a bad meal or experience. They pour a great drink and the service staff is always on top of their game. The flatbreads are fantastic. The pasta and streak selections are great and portion sizes always allow for some to take home. Their Mother's Day Brunch was great in 2015 and we are headed back for 2016. We like this locally owned place a lot and always have a great meal. read more

This is one of my mother's favorite places, so we decided to get together for a family meal. Our family of 13 got together recently for dinner and decided to go here. We made a reservation, we under calculated and ended up with more than we originally said and they quickly helped rectify seating no problem. Our waitress was great. The "bread/crackers" on the tables with butter and a cheese spread were delicious! Light & airy and very tasty. We all had something different. The mongolian pork chop and the fried chicken had the highest rave reviews - these were very much enjoyed and noted that many would be getting these 2 items next time we come back. The mahi mahi and the fish tacos were noted as pretty good. A few of us had the french onion soup - none of us really liked it, not the "true Famous Barr" french onion soup that we all know & love - so we were disappointed. The wedge salads were enjoyed but a few of us did not like the thousand island dressing that was on it. Three others had the flat breads - the buffalo chicken one was noted as the chicken was kind of dry. The mushroom one was said to be good. The food for a big group came out quickly and was good temperatures. The place was not overly busy and we felt well taken care of. We will be back. read more

I attended one of the Wine Wednesday events. Terrific value for $20. Nine wines, nice appetizers. Great for a group of friends.

Great atmosphere. I had the tilapia. I'm big on bold flavors so it was a bit on the bland side but I'd definitely go back.

Five ladies had lunch here this week. Two of us had the quiche, others ordered a burger, an omelet and chicken salad. All were pleased. I thought the quiche was outstanding. Actually, the best I have had. We did wait awhile for the food to come to the table, and the restaurant was not busy. The restaurant has a formal atmosphere -very nice. read more

I love this restaurant and am so glad it is in Kirkwood. You can usually get a reservation, the food is consistently good, Bob is always so welcoming and the best part is you can hold a conversation without shouting. The prices are reasonable and the pours are generous. Plus I LOVE the chocolate cookies they give you at the end of your meal. read more