Nestled in the charming Benton Park neighborhood of St. Louis, Sidney Street Cafe offers a refined and welcoming dining experience. This establishment, comfortably situated in a century-old storefront, has been a cornerstone of the city’s upscale dining scene since 2003. Dining at Sidney Street Cafe, much like visiting its sister restaurant Peacemaker Lobster & Crab, comes with an inherent expectation of excellence. Award-winning Chef Kevin Nashan and his dedicated team consistently strive to not just meet, but exceed these expectations, making Sidney Street Cafe a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
Ambiance and Atmosphere at Sidney Street Cafe
From the moment you arrive at Sidney Street Cafe, the experience is designed to be seamless and inviting. A welcoming valet service sets a positive tone right from the start. Stepping inside, guests are immediately embraced by the cafe’s warm and sophisticated ambiance. The interior design thoughtfully blends exposed brick walls with gleaming hardwood floors, all bathed in soft, flattering lighting.
A focal point near the entrance is the antique bar, itself a piece of art that adds to the cafe’s character and charm. The overall decor contributes to a haven of fine dining, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and relaxed, perfect for a special night out or a memorable meal.
Culinary Excellence: Appetizers, Entrees, and Desserts
Once seated in the comfortably appointed dining room, the attentive service continues. Drinks are served promptly, followed by a delightful bread basket featuring “unpowdered beignets.” This unique, New Orleans-inspired touch, courtesy of Chef Kevin and his kitchen, offers a savory twist on the classic beignet, omitting the traditional powdered sugar for a less sweet and arguably more versatile roll.
Don’t Miss the Appetizers
The knowledgeable server expertly guides diners through the appetizer selections, presented on a chalkboard easel. For those finding it hard to choose, the accommodating staff may offer customized appetizer plates, allowing a tasting of multiple options. Standout appetizers include the Veal Dumplings, exquisitely prepared and paired with a teriyaki and honey glaze and cilantro salsa, and the Lobster Turnover, featuring lobster wrapped in delicate filo dough with a rich tomato brandy reduction. These appetizers alone demonstrate the culinary creativity and skill present in Sidney Street Cafe’s kitchen.
Entrees at Sidney Street Cafe are thoughtfully composed and come with a choice of soup or salad, ensuring a well-rounded meal. Dishes like the Roasted Beets, served with creamy barley, king trumpet mushrooms, caramelized goat’s milk, and a root vegetable demi-glaze, showcase the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
Seafood lovers will appreciate the Snapper entree, perfectly cooked and accompanied by sweet potato puree, pickled enoki mushrooms, and a chorizo nage – a flavorful stock used to poach seafood, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
Deconstructed Desserts with a Touch of Whimsy
Sidney Street Cafe’s dessert menu often features “deconstructed” desserts, a playful approach where elements of classic sweets are artfully rearranged on the plate. The Carrot Cake, for example, is presented in broken pieces alongside passion fruit gel, cheesecake puree, and a carrot-passion fruit sorbet. While offering a modern and visually appealing presentation, these desserts remain incredibly delicious, offering a sweet and satisfying end to the meal.
For those who prefer a more traditional dessert, options like the Dark Chocolate Turtle Brownie, served with pecan brittle and vanilla bean ice cream, provide classic flavors executed to perfection.
Exceptional Service and Chef Kevin Nashan
The dedication to quality at Sidney Street Cafe extends beyond the food to encompass the entire dining experience. The friendly valet service, attentive waitstaff, and inviting atmosphere all contribute to a truly memorable visit. While Chef Kevin Nashan’s culinary talent is evident in every dish, his commitment to hospitality and creating a welcoming environment is equally significant. Nashan, a James Beard award winner for “Best Chef: Midwest,” brings a wealth of experience from his upbringing in Santa Fe, his family’s restaurant history, and his culinary journey through Spain and New York City. Together with his wife, Mina, and brother, Chris, Nashan has cultivated Sidney Street Cafe into a St. Louis dining gem.
Sidney Street Cafe. Located at 2000 Sidney Street in the Benton Park neighborhood, St. Louis. Open Tuesday-Thursday 5 pm with seating until 9 pm, and Saturday 5 pm with seating until 10 pm. Closed Sunday and Monday. Chef: Kevin Nashan.
In conclusion, Sidney Street Cafe St. Louis embodies everything a fine dining experience should be: relaxed, comfortable, and utterly delicious. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to St. Louis, Sidney Street Cafe promises a superb and memorable evening of dining.
