Stone Soup Cottage

While I am a little sad that I won't be going to the Women's World Cup for my 40th birthday like I had planned, this year still has been pretty special with a trip to California. I ate and drank in some of the best places in the country, but there was still one top place in St. Louis that I had yet to try.

Lara and I share back-to-back birthdays but due to a repeat of the menu, we ended up waiting until April. This ended up working out for the best because we didn't have to worry about bad weather and the area around the new location is quite beautiful in the spring. Let's just say that outdoor dining (a la farm-to-table) is going to be coming very soon!

Since Lara and Mike are somewhat "regulars", we received over-the-top service to go along with the already high level service to begin with. The new building is just beautiful inside and this lovely table was awaiting our arrival. Not to mention the incredibly comfy chairs, which was necessary for three-hour dining.

Our table...

The first thing you see when you sit down is the incredibly long menu. I think this might be

my longest one yet if you include the Amuse-Bouche and Intermezzo.

Menu

Patience and I decided to split one wine pairing between the two of us, which turned out to be a good idea since four wine pairings is plenty. I must also compliment the restaurant for offering to split the wine for us and they were still generous pours.

I could describe each pairing, but everything was amazing. Even the wine were perfectly paired...this was my first time drinking a Louis Latour!!

Amuse-Bouche

Sorrel Soup with Atlantic Blue Crab and Gruyere Gougeres

Grilled Asparagus with Seared Pork Belly, Petite Farm Salad
Dressed with a Sorghum and Black Pepper Vinaigrette

Alaskan Halibut Cheeks en Papillote
with White Wine and Artichokes

Morel and Spring Onion Quiche with Veloute

Smoked Duck Cannelloni with Brown Butter and Lavender

Rhubarb Souffle with Housemade White Chocolate Gelato

Of course, the best part is when Chef Carl or his wife comes out and describes each course to every table. Also, Chef Carl was so kind as to autograph his book for us as a wonderful gift.

If you enjoy fine dining for special occasions, this is definitely the place to go.

Resources:

Stone Soup Cottage = http://www.stonesoupcottage.com/

Photos by Patience Scanlon