When it comes to dining out, St. Louis has hundreds of restaurants perfect for a romantic evening. There are plenty of "Best Restaurant" lists out there, but you don't have to dine at Tony's to impress your date. Sometimes, it's the lesser known places that make for a special evening. Here are ten of my favorite St. Louis area restaurants, that I think are quite romantic.
1. Sidney Street Cafe
The Sidney Street Cafe is located in a century old building in the Benton Park neighborhood south of downtown St. Louis. The candlelight, brick walls and hardwood floors give it a casual vibe, but the food is quite elegant. Try the steak au poivre, filet bearnaise or caramelized sea scallops for something truly special. The menu changes with the seasons so there's always something new no matter how many times you've been before. Sidney Street is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday.2000 Sidney Street
(314) 771-5777
2. Cyrano's
If your sweetheart has a sweet tooth, Cyrano's is the perfect place. Sure you can get a meal at this Webster Groves cafe, but the real reason to come is for the desserts. Cyrano's desserts are so big, they are great for sharing. Order the flaming Cherries Jubilee or Bananas Foster for a tableside show that will literally flame your desires.603 E. Lockwood
(314) 963-3232
3. Pueblo Solis
Mexican restaurants are seldom described as romantic. But the atmosphere at Pueblo Solis is among the most romantic in town. The small dining room, candlelit tables and personal service all combine to make you feel you've discovered an intimate cantina in a Mexican beach town. And the food will go beyond your expectations too. Of course, you can get many of your favorite Mexican dishes, but Pueblo Solis also has great steak and seafood specials. Whatever you decide, don't skip the guacamole and margaritas. They are simply the best in town.5127 Hampton Avenue
(314) 351-9000
4. Monarch
Impress your date with an evening at Monarch in Maplewood. The restaurant aspires to be among St. Louis' finest, and the food and service certainly make its case. The main Monarch dining room is a fairly open and big space, but fabric on the ceiling and other design elements help give it a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The menu offers haute cuisine dishes inspired by French chefs, with the roasted beef tenderloin and grilled yellowfin tuna among the most popular. There is also a hip but warm Bistro & Wine Bar for more casual dining.7401 Manchester
(314) 644-3995
5. An American Place
An American Place is building a reputation as a great St. Louis restaurant. That's because it's owned by world-renowned chef Larry Forgione who has been a successful restauranteur and caterer for nearly 30 years. An American Place takes all the best of traditional American cusine like chicken, duck and seafood, and presents it in new and exciting ways. But the romance comes from the restaurant's warm and comfortable atmosphere, despite the fact that the space it occupies could just as easily serve as a train station or a grand bank lobby. To further the romantic mood, ask to sit in one of the high-back, circular booths in the center.822 Washington Ave.
(314) 418-5800
6. Dominic's on the Hill
St. Louis' Hill neighborhood is full of so many great restaurants that it's hard to pick just one. But if you're looking for a romantic dinner, make a reservation at Dominic's. Dominic's has been a favorite on the Hill for nearly 40 years. It serves up gourmet Italian cuisine in an elegant, old-world dining room. There is also a newer restaurant, Dominic's Trattoria, in Clayton.5101 Wilson Ave.
(314) 771-1632
7. Top of the Riverfront
The Top of the Riverfront restaurant, at the Millenium Hotel, offers fine dining with some of the best views of St. Louis. The restaurant is on the top floor of the hotel, 28 stories above the ground. Plus, it rotates 360 degrees, giving diners incredible views of the Gateway Arch and the downtown skyline. The Top of the Riverfront serves steak, seafood and other traditional American cuisine.200 South Fourth Street
(314) 241-9500
8. Mihalis Chophouse
Mihalis bills itself as St. Louis' premiere steakhouse and it's not hard to see why. The restaurant specializes in beautiful hand cut steaks and chops that will satisfy any meat lover. Yes, you can have your steak with a traditional baked potato, but you should try the fried spinach. It sounds strange, and it is, but they way it melts in your mouth is a culinary experience not to be missed. The decor at Mihalis is warm and intimate, with secluded booths for couples and tables for larger groups. Mihalis also has an extensive wine list with more than 1,800 bottles.1603 McCausland Ave.
(314) 333-3301
9. Trattoria Marcella
Trattoria Marcella is always at the top of local "best restaurant" lists. This South City favorite features fine Italian food and wine. The service is always excellent, and the food never disappoints. Try the Chicken and Spinach Cannelloni or Osso Buco for a truly memorable meal.3600 Watson Road
(314) 352-7706
10. The Melting Pot
The Melting Pot is a chain restaurant, but let's not hold that against it. After all, there is something very romantic about sharing a chocolate fondue with the one you love. The Melting Pot isn't just about chocolate though. There are also a wide variety of cheese and main course fondues. There are two Melting Pot locations in the St. Louis area. The first restaurant opened on the Delmar Loop in University City. The second is in west St. Louis County.6683 Delmar Blvd.
(314) 725-4141
294 Lamp and Lantern Village
(636) 207-6358
