Sardella Profile
3:55 PM
Roaster: Sump
Opened: 2016
Drinks Menu: Basic espresso menu, a small tea selection, and drip coffee. Simple and well executed.
Food Menu: Everything! They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus brunch on the weekends.
Espresso Machine: Two-group Faema
Brew Options: Pour overs, cold brew, espresso; Big Heart Tea
Location: Clayton, MO
Rating: 4 out of 5
Review:
Connected to Pastaria in Clayton, Sardella offers a younger, hipper dining experience than the family-friendly restaurant its attached to. The intimate space is filled with two- and four-top tables and a small bar. While kids and large parties make Pastaria a lively dinner spot, Sardella offers an intimate space ideal for grabbing a quiet drink or bite. It has an Italian theme with white and blue tiles lining the walls and bleached wood covering the floors and bar. Funky light fixtures and an open kitchen add modern touches to an otherwise old-world vibe.
I went in for brunch and was delighted to see a chrome, vintage-looking (but I suspect quite new) espresso machine behind the bar. This machine is not just for show; the skilled bar manager made two very tasty drinks for me. I started with a Cup of Sunshine latte. It was similar to a chai latte without the kick or tickle in the back of your throat that often accompanies chai. The powder base includes turmeric, ginger, black pepper, cinnamon, and a number of other spices, which are combined with milk to create a drink that's lovely to look at and soothing to drink. It was smooth, rich, and comforting – and caffeine free if you’re looking for a coffee alternative.
I couldn’t walk away from this Faema machine without testing out its full capabilities, so I tried a latte next. It’s clear that the manager knows her way around a steam wand. She explained that she worked as a barista for many years in New York and I’m glad she decided to bring her skills to St Louis.
I also tried out the brunch menu and was pleased. The food came out promptly and hot, which should be the standard, but there are so many places that fall short of this, so it’s worth mentioning. I got a fried egg sandwich with bacon and red pepper jelly on an English muffin. It was a simple sandwich and well executed. I was particularly happy with the fresh, spongy English muffin and sweet, spicy jelly. I also tried a mushroom and fontina quiche that was even better. The quiche changes up regularly.
With an interesting atmosphere and well prepared food and drink options, Sardella is a good option for brunch.
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