"I visited Milque Toast on a Saturday morning at about eight o’clock and found myself quite alone in a dining room that was bright, polished, and faintly reverential in its quiet. Other reviewers have remarked on the building itself, and rightly so: a carefully restored older St. Louis structure, lending the place a sense of seriousness and intention before one has even opened the menu. I was greeted promptly and kindly by my waitress, whose warm kindness never wavered. The menu, however, was notably smaller than the one described on their website, which speaks of a globally inspired approach using thoughtful, local ingredients. What was offered that morning leaned more restrained than expansive, though not without merit. I ordered the eggs en cocotte with a side of bacon and an espresso, adding two additional eggs to meet my own dietary requirements. The espresso arrived first and, regrettably, was quite poor. To be fair, coffee does not appear to be the house’s primary concern; I noticed no dedicated espresso equipment, and one suspects it is included more by expectation than by conviction. The main dish arrived shortly thereafter and immediately redeemed the experience. It was beautifully presented and deeply aromatic. The eggs rested in a rich bath of cream and herbs, through which the sharpness of local cheddar cut with admirable confidence. It tasted exactly as it looked: carefully composed and clearly loved. Someone, somewhere in that kitchen, cared very much about this dish. I confess that my enthusiasm for additional eggs exceeded my capacity to finish them, a fact I admit with some embarrassment. The bacon, unfortunately, was burnt. It was edible, but joyless, and stood in unflattering contrast to the care shown elsewhere—though I acknowledge that many diners prefer it precisely so. After a few pleasant words with my host, including sincere compliments and an unnecessary apology for my unfinished plate, I settled my bill and departed. The meal came to $38, owing in part to the additional eggs. This is not a complaint, merely an observation. Would I return? Possibly. I would be interested to see the menu broaden, particularly in the direction of the global inspiration promised online. What I ate was very good, but felt more narrowly focused than advertised. I think I would return, if only to see what lunch might offer."

"In the old California Donuts building on S. Jefferson...I feel like I found the Golden Ticket friends! From the Currier & Ives place settings to the masterfully crafted and always evolving menu, this is truly THE SPOT! Full disclosure, the owner, Colleen, and I started working together in the biz 20+ years ago and I consider her a close friend, but anyone who knows me also knows that I don't sugar coat. If the experience wasn't absolutely as wonderful as it was, y'all would know. I've been here twice now - the first visit was for an 18th bday brunch for my daughter and was not documented, but nonetheless spectacular, even in the company of three 18-20yr olds😉. The pic included here is from a private dinner last weekend and I haven't stopped talking about it since the first bite. Mixed greens salald with spiced walnuts, cranberries, and the most flavorful vinaigrette (not pictured bc I already demolished it), fork-tender roasted pork belly, the creamiest mashed potatoes ever to hit my lips, mushroom/leek pot pie, roasted spiced squash, and braised red cabbage - served family style, so I definitely had 2nd helpings on whatever was left on the table😏 Each flavor harmonized with the next in complete and utter perfection. Calling out two things specifically here - I don't like mushrooms or squash, never have. Yours truly is now a convert, as long as Colleen is preparing them. The squash was really the superstar for me. It was savory forward with a sweet & spicy finish - maybe allspice/peppercorn blend - that just made it stand out so prominently! It was a Georgia Roaster and something she can't get again until next fall🙄...so I'll be waiting! They are usually open for brunch/lunch, serving a written, consistent menu and usually a special or two. She does a few curated menus weekly for dinners, served family style. The dining room is intimate (25ish seats); however, there is also sidewalk seating for when the weather allows. Follow their Facebook page for dinner service notifications, grab some friends/family, and get yourself down to the South Side for a great vibe and an even better meal!"

"I was very excited to see this building brought back to life after moving here from nearby up Jefferson. We finally made it here for brunch this past weekend. The food was great! Really. French inspired dishes. Everything has nice flavors and good presentation. I like the variety it brings compared to the average regular place. Service was attentive and friendly. The atmosphere is a bit drab and the chairs are supremely uncomfortable. We'd definitely recommend trying this place."

"This is the most delicious food you can buy. From the obviously beautiful plating to the complex yet full flavors that vary from every creative dish Milque Toast is an absolute St. Louis Gem. The staff is gentle and kind to match the delicate yet filling food. Food is so clearly art at this establishment."

"Excellent food! Shaved tofu a revelation! What a delightful unexpected dining delight where the neon sign pulled me away from my original destination. Very happy I decided to run across the street to fulfill my curiosity."