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.

I want to give this review more stars, I really do. But for the price you pay for the food and…read moreservice, you expect more. The employees were nice. Their version of the French dip? Oh that was a yes. French onion soup was ok too, but honestly it could've been thicker. But when you pay 19 bucks for a burger and they hand you those little packaged mustard packets like a fast food place? Oh come on now. At least put ketchup and mustard bottles on the table. Our waitress was sweet, but she had too many other obligations going on and we got cheated out of refills. We were there during lunch and noticed when customers left, nobody even came by to bus the tables. I'm not sure, but the place kinda feels like it's on its last leg. It could be better. There's room for improvement, I just don't see it happening.

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.

First time visiting Colleen's Cafe and it definitely exceeded expectations. My wife and I walked…read moreover since it's within walking distance, and it turned out to be a great breakfast spot. They offer both breakfast and lunch, but we stuck with breakfast for our first visit. The wait for food was about 30 minutes, but the music and cozy ambiance made it an easy wait. Seating is a bit limited, with a mix of high-top and standard tables, but the atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming. We started with a delicious caramel latte and orange juice. For the mains we ordered the breakfast burrito and the "Farmer Brown," and everything was flavorful and satisfying. The service was friendly and really complemented the overall experience. We skipped dessert this time, but they had plenty of tempting options for next visit. Definitely a spot we'd come back to.

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

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.

Who doesn't like Pasta!!!…read more So it was a girls night, i will say the restaurant is open and noisy. Not off putting type of noisy, but you are not having any romantic private conversations here. We are in Clayton so you know the ambiance is right, nothing to complain about there. My waiter was attentive, almost to attentive, until it came to the check then I couldn't find him lol. Not complaining though because way to often you have to be ultra patient. WE had a large chopped salad which was delicious. I had Pomodoro pasta which was good. BUT THE STAR OF THE SHOW WAS THE BRUSSEL SPROUTS. we ate two orders and I ordered one to go. Now i am not a pasta snob but I do enjoy the hill, and my favorite Italian restaurant is EAtely in Chicago. Now this, aint that. But i would definitely come back and try other things on the menu. ITs affordable enough that i can bring my whole family, its nice enough that this could be classified as a special night out. If you have teenagers or young adults that are currently dating within a budget, your date will feel special if you bring her here.

Ivy Café is truly a top tier coffee spot and absolutely worth the stop if you appreciate a great…read morecup of coffee and a delicious pastry. I consider myself a bit of a coffee snob, so I am always on the lookout for places that really know their craft and this one delivers. From espresso to cappuccino to lattes or even a simple cup of coffee, everything is done exceptionally well. It all starts with their exclusive blend of fresh coffee beans that are roasted locally and brought in fresh. You can taste the difference in every sip. Their blend is roasted to perfection and creates a consistently smooth and flavorful experience no matter what you order. The staff are friendly, courteous, and clearly knowledgeable about what they do. I have been especially impressed with Sarina, the manager, and Lynne, one of the baristas. Their attention to detail and care for customers really stands out. They make their own simple flavored syrups in house, which adds a fresh and unique twist to many of their drinks. The ambiance and decor make it a beautiful and relaxing place to sit, unwind, and truly enjoy your coffee. This is definitely a place I will keep coming back to.

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.

Everything about this place is great! The food is fantastic! Services is always friendly and fast!read more

The food is amazing and I love the place. The service is good. I love their pancakes and I am a…read morebear praise and it went really well.

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. .

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.

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.

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.