Local Chef Stl - Ballwin

What a friendly place. Tony greeted us with a big smile and description of some of the menu items. Prices were very reasonable. Open seating. My grilled cheese... read more What a friendly place. Tony greeted us with a big smile and description of some of the menu items. Prices were very reasonable. Open seating. My grilled cheese on fresh baked bread was excellent. They didn't scrimp on the amount of cheese or the quality. The chocolate cake with Grenache was delicious. I like that they not only recycle, but also compost. Fun experience.

I rarely come across a restaurant that is so highly rated on both Yelp and Google, so I decided to give it a try. I'm really grateful for the reviews because, f... read more I rarely come across a restaurant that is so highly rated on both Yelp and Google, so I decided to give it a try. I'm really grateful for the reviews because, for me, the most important thing is the food. I'm not an expert on restaurant reviews, so I'll base my comparisons on similar price ranges. I ordered the smoked round steak with fried potatoes and seasonal vegetables. The steak was fantastic—delicate and flavorful. The diced potatoes were deep-fried, which was interesting. The vegetables were fresh and tasted good, but I prefer them cooked a little longer for a softer texture. I’m not sure if they would be willing to accommodate that request. Overall, I'm glad I made the trip and I look forward to returning for another culinary experience.

One of our favorite restaurants in west county. After living in the central west end for years, it was hard to find places to eat with fresh, local ingredients... read more One of our favorite restaurants in west county. After living in the central west end for years, it was hard to find places to eat with fresh, local ingredients without driving 30 minutes. I know others don't appreciate the simplicity of the decor, we actually feel it adds to the experience because they let the food speak for itself.

Oh my gosh! The food was incredible. I decided to stop by for lunch and ordered the Louisiana fried chicken, while my boss had the veggie lasagna. We also both... read more Oh my gosh! The food was incredible. I decided to stop by for lunch and ordered the Louisiana fried chicken, while my boss had the veggie lasagna. We also both tried the squash mac and cheese. The fried chicken was outstanding—perfectly crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy on the inside. The sauce that came with the chicken had a sweet and subtle flavor, followed by a delightful spicy kick that left me wanting more! My boss raved about her veggie lasagna as well. However, what impressed me even more is their commitment to sustainability—anything that isn't eaten is composted! It's clear why this place has such a high rating; it's hard to believe anyone could give it less than 5 stars. I'll definitely be back! A big thank you to the friendly staff who make it all happen!

The food here is excellent, and I appreciate that it comes from local farms! It's a nice bonus that you can also purchase meat and eggs on-site. The potatoes we... read more The food here is excellent, and I appreciate that it comes from local farms! It's a nice bonus that you can also purchase meat and eggs on-site. The potatoes were outstanding. I love that they recycle or compost everything that isn't washed. They seem to be refining the atmosphere, which currently feels a bit like a mix between a farmer's market and a cafeteria. I really enjoyed the quick glass of local kombucha they offer. The prices are reasonable for local fare, averaging about $15 per person.