hi-brow burgers, etc.
Hi-Pointe Drive-In opened earlier this month with a ’50s retro vibe. The completely rebuilt spot on McCausland behind the Hi-Pointe Theatre was concepted by veteran restaurateur Mike Johnson (Sugarfire) and partners Carolyn Downs and Charlie Downs. Johnson, the force behind the kitchen, promises burgers made from chuck, brisket and rib meat, as well as veggie burgers made of quinoa and wheat berries. Sides include brussels sprouts with sherry and bacon, white cheddar mac n’ cheese and housemade barbecue chips. The place has 46 dine-in spots and 24 outdoor seats.
one step closer
The much-anticipated Vicia has signed on Summer Wright for pastry duties. Most recently co-founder of Reeds American Table in Maplewood, Wright has an impressive pastry resume that includes stints at Five Bistro, Niche, Pizzaiolo in San Francisco and Claverach Farm. Vicia co-owner Michael Gallina intends to “develop a pastry program that celebrates whole wheat pastries and desserts.”
new year, new eats
Several new restaurants are cropping up, some at the tail end of 2016; others waited for the crystal ball to drop. Herbie’s took over the elegant Cardwell’s in Clayton space in November and is up and running … Kirkwood Brewhouse has brought house-made casual fare to the one-time Winfield’s spot in Greentree Plaza … Urban Chestnut has launched a new testing space, The U.R.B. (Urban Research Brewery) across the street, where pizza by the slice is served and customers can sample and survey test batches of beer … Himalayan Yeti has opened on South Kingshighway, serving Nepalese dishes by a former India’s Rasoi employee … Yolklore is a gourmet breakfast, lunch and brunch spot in Crestwood opened by respected chefs John and Mary Bogacki and Billy Oziransky in the former King Edward’s Chicken & Fish on Watson Road … MOD Pizza has sprung up in the former Creve Coeur Camera storefront in Ladue, serving fast-casual pizzas made to your specifications.
change is good
A couple of spots are changing identities. The former J&W Chinese bakery at 8148 Olive Blvd. has quietly turned into the hip, youthful Cate Zone Chinese Cafe. The two young chefs, Daniel Ma and Quincy Lin, have created a contemporary vibe in their little spot, where they serve traditional fare from the Dongbei region, in northeast China. In South City, 3500 Watson Road, the not-very-old J. McArthur’s wine bar/bistro is being taken on by Stanley and Arlene Browne of Robust, who will turn it into something new. What, exactly, is TBD and should happen in early spring.
