Root Food + Wine — Restaurant in Augusta

Our dining experience at Root was disappointing. There were issues with service, inconsiderate seating and the food. It is a newer restaurant and there are things that could improve and a few things that will probably stay the same.

Things that could improve: Service – our server was distracted, informal and not really up to the level of dining experience that Root aspires to provide. Everything from the table setting being incorrect (is that my glass or yours?) to forgetting our order and having us sit for 45 minutes between courses…

Seating – we sat in a doorway / walkway that servers, patrons, etc., passed through frequently. They literally had to pass within a few inches of us. The first few times was ok, but it impacted our ability to have a private conversation. This table should be removed at a high-end restaurant.

Things that probably will not change: Pretentious Concept – they have 2 ideas that many people won’t enjoy. The first is that "they know what you should eat or drink". Any changes are not welcome and feel like a wrestling match. For example, drinks have 4 -5 ingredients and changing one requires permission from the bartender. Steaks are boiled in water (not grilled) and can only be cooked to med rare. The problematic second concept is "different is better". The steak is a good example. For some reason we are supposed to be excited that it is boiled. Somewhere Alton Brown weeps, as there is a science to searing steak (and cooking in general) and they don’t seem to embrace that.

Value for money – somewhere down the line they forgot people want enough food to leave without being hungry. After dinner We actually ate all of the snacks at the B&B we stayed at as we were all starving. Tiny portions and a $100+ bill per couple is not a sustainable value proposition

Obviously, we are not planning to go back. The vision and the execution are too far apart. If you do want to try it, I suggest you...

We arrived in Augusta by bicycle on our KATY Trail expedition and stayed at a local B&B (also fantastic). We did not know what to expect on arrival. What we found was 5 stars all the way. This is a lovely restaurant located in a converted home. The rooms have a few tables and are not cramped - a big plus for me. The decorations are minimal, but very nice and the place was very clean. We were greeted warmly by the staff, well informed about the food, and had our questions answered. Being a foodie, I was not expecting the extent of the knowledge of our wait staff -- made my mouth water with just the descriptions. This is a small plate restaurant. We made the mistake of only getting the 3-course pre-fix meal. We should have gotten the 5-course meal. The food is beautiful - delicious - and perfectly prepared. My wife got the trout dish as our protein. I have fished for trout for years and have found even wild-caught trout bland - NOT HERE. I don't regret getting the Wagyu Beef (I would have eaten the entire steak it was so good); but wish I had also gotten trout. Appetizers and desserts were surprisingly simple in appearance, but complex and delicious. We have notified friends about this restaurant and will be bringing others with...

I went to Root last night for my birthday. There were 4 couples total. We were seated at a table with ample room for all of us. There were adorable salt and pepper shakers at each of the tables, each unique. We started off with Chef Snacks (appetizers) of O'Fallon Mushroom Bruschetta, Duck Pastrami, Whipped White Cheddar, & Sourdough Bread. I liked everything I tried. We all ordered a 3 course meal. Everyone was satisfied. The starters were Spring Vegetable Soup and Smashed Spring Potatoes. I had the soup and it was PERFECT! Some of my party had potatoes and they raved about them. I heard the Soy Glazed Rib Steak was amazing (I don't eat red meat) as was the Buttonwood Chicken & Rice, but, I had the Hot Smoked Rockbridge Trout and LOVED IT! The Sweets offered were Carrot Cake or Chocolate & Strawberries. That chocolate mouse was DELECTABLE! We had many fun cocktails also. The bartender, Dylan, creates his own and they were a hit with our group. Our group's favorites included House Penicillin, Cosmo, Missouri Mule, and the Manhatten. We had wine also and were pleased with our selection. The staff was friendly and attentive. This place is a MUST DO in Missouri's beautiful wine country. This was a terrific dining...