My wife, Heather, and I had a great lunch today at The Crossing in Clayton.  Apps, Soups and Salads are about $5.  Pastas run $10 or so.  So do lunch salads and sandwiches.  Lunch entrees are just a bit more expensive at 11 or 12 bucks each.  All in all, the prices are amazing considering the quality of the food.

 I had an outstanding crab cake sandwich with perfect french fries.  Heather enjoyed roasted cauliflower and pancetta pasta.  

We’ve been enjoying dinner at the Crossing for years.  Jimmy Fiala, the owner of The Crossing, also owns Liluma in the Central West End and Acero in Maplewood. 

For more information about the Crossing, or to make a reservation, call, 314.721.7375.

And for help with Real Estate, check out your Home Guide for St. Louis.  

Russell Nolting
314.267.2636

Two recent meals at Robust in Webster Groves gives me high hopes for this newer St. Louis restaurant.  Smaller portions paired with wine make Robust a unique offering in the beautiful community of Webster Groves. 

Eastern Shore Lump Crab Cakes with Meyer Lemon, Roasted Garlic and Chive Aioli, were presented as two mini cakes presented on top of the aioli with a garnish of spring mix.  The crab cakes were good, though not outstanding, due to an under-seasoned aioli.  This small plate was $12. 

The Pan Seared Sea Scallops with White Truffle Risotto and a Garlic Herb Crumb ($15) were delicious.  The risotto was cooked perfectly and provided a great contrast to the seared scallops.  The garlic herb crumb was crunchy and flavorful.  Though this dish included only two scallops, the risotto was quite filling. 

A note about smaller portions:  I’m thrilled that many restaurants are electing to offer smaller, less expensive, alternatives to old-fashioned enormous portions.  Who really needs a 16 oz. steak?  Two small portions at Robust can be combined to make a satisfying meal.  The bonus for the foodie is that he gets to enjoy two preparations instead of just one.  And the delay between servings enables the body to experience the feeling of fullness that doesn’t kick in when you quickly inhale an enormous serving of a single dish. 

I’ve had a number of other enjoyable dishes at Robust.  Make your reservation early as the restaurant is crowded all the time due to a great deal of favorable press from local publications.  In fact, St. Louis magazine named Robust the 2008 Restaurant of the Year. 

To book a reservation, call 314.963.0033.