Novella Wine Bar — Restaurant in St. Louis

I will preface this by saying that the indoor and outdoor seating area is very nice, and the appetizers we shared were delicious; however, service left a LOT to be desired. I do not drink and asked for a glass of water. The server acted surprised and walked away to get the items started for another member in my party. When she returned, we were told that there is a one drink minimum and that she "has a business to run". I let her know that I didn't choose this location and didn't know about the one drink minimum (it is not posted anywhere on the website or in the facility itself). Myself and another member of our party did not receive the waters we requested and our table was not spoken to again after the appetizers were brought out. I understand that businesses are struggling during COVID, but if a purchase minimum is required, it needs to be communicated prior to arrival, or at the very least, posted inside the seating area. I think the waitress's attitude was condescending and inappropriate, and I have no...

Have driven by several times and decided to stop in with 2 couples on a Saturday night.

Vibe: immediately warm and inviting. Place was bustling but not crowded. Service was busy yet attentive, we asked questions and took every recommendation.

Drinks: we ordered 7 of their signature cocktails from the fall menu and passed them around - all delicious. The Nutty Irishman was a pleasant surprise. Fall apple caramel sangria tasted like pie. Smoked Manhattan used mesquite, which was a bit strong for the cocktail IMHO. Owner also suggested a couple liqueurs and aperitifs, both delicious, especially the macadamia nut despite it's gasohol nose.

We were all delighted by this hidden gem wine bar on S Kingshighway, ended up staying until near closing. Great conversation with the owner, it's been open 9 years. They have a small but charming wrap-around patio, will check it out in warmer weather.

Will definitely be back and try the food and...

Have you ever driven past a place and thought, we really need to go there. Well, we finally did! And the only word is WOW! You open the door to old world charm. A great playlist of music that isn’t too loud. A wine list that is curated to meet almost any wine lovers wants. The “by the glass” options are pretty spectacular as well. As for the food, it is mostly small plates meant to share. We had the polenta fries, the chicken-basil flatbread and the Gorgonzola stuffed dates. Everything was beautiful and delicious. The dates were a revelation as I am not a blue cheese fan, yet these were so amazing we ordered a second! I would return just for the dates, but I’m so excited to try the rest of the menu. Great service, beautiful surroundings, outstanding food and wine! Looking forward to a cooler evening because their outdoor patio looks...