Where I have eaten lately

I tried Ciao, at 4534 Gravois recently. This space had once been another restaurant and there are only minor changes. There are really funky, cool long tables that would be great for appetizers and drinks but less than ideal for eating dinner. I had the Ciao signature cocktail which was a little time citrusy for my taste and a little light on the booze. We started with a cheese platter which was nice but not spectacular. The pasta however was quite excellent, the linguini primavera is cooked with whipped cream and it is very special. I enjoyed it a lot.The tramisu dessert was also top notch.

On the way to a show at the Fox, we found very limited options if you want to get down there early and park. So we settled on Dooley's Beef N Brew House. I will give them kudos for the home made chips. I had the ribeye sandwich and it was pretty decent. The wine by the glass was not bad for a brewhouse but they were out of nearly early whisky I tried to order. I ended up with a shot of Jameson for dessert but I really wanted Scotch.

On the Mexican front, we tried Mariachis II at the recommendation of many who said they have the best margaritas. I disagree as again I found them to heavy on the citrus and too light on the tequila. It was suppose to be a "Cadillac" version but I couldn't detect any Cointreau or Grand Marnier. The food was ok but nothing special. It is located at 4536 Gravois.

And finally, I continue to be a big fan of the Mediterranean House Apollonia which is at 6836 Gravois. I love their saganaki and they routinely have really nice lamb dishes.

Pastaria in Clayton (by Niche)

A couple years back, I had lunch at Pastaria. with a few co-workers. We had winnings from Fantasy Football to spend and spend we did. It is decorated like an Italian farmhouse and the pasta construction is part of the entertainment. The dark rich bread is home-made and you can make your own dipping oil with salt, pepper, quality olive oil and hot oil all laid out for your personal touch. There is a small interesting pasta menu along with pizza available at lunch. I had the pistachio ravioli and it was outstanding.
We went back with more football winnings and this time I had a classic pasta lunch special. It reminded me of how much I truly love this place.

So when I had a recent opportunity to be in Clayton at dinner time, Pastaria came to mind. I went back to the pistachio ravioli as it is truly outstanding. My wife had the wood oven roasted lasagna and loved it.
We had a really nice Italian wine, Scarpetta Barbera (in honor of the Patricia Cornwall book series) and completely enjoyed the evening. The place was packed and from the conversations I could overhear, it sounded like lots of "foodies" are regulars.