STL: Monarch update?

[litchick]

Hi StL Hounds--

I'm a Boston hound looking to take my parents out for dinner next week. Last year, we took them to Niche and it was a treat. I'm looking for options for this year's dinner, and Monarch is looking like a possibility. I haven't been there before, but I have friends who have liked it quite a bit in the past. Are hounds feeling generally like it's still a thumbs-up experience? Would you consider it worth the price?

Many thanks!

[litchick]

Thanks to all for the input!

[filbertman]

I went to Monarch a few months ago. Here's my write-up along with pictures.

http://www.filtsai.com/pictures/2008_...

Summary: I thought Monarch was very good, though not quite excellent. However, at the price it's most definitely worth it.

I also went to Niche last week... but I have so many pictures to go through from the holidays it may take a while for me to get to them.

[CheesemongersWife]

I've heard nothing but RAVE reviews of the new line up at Monarch!

[lemons]

Just a largish snack in the bar since the new chef, Josh Galliano, late of An American Place, took over, but it was extremely tasty. Interesting cocktails, and the GM there now is John McGuire, who ran the much-missed King Louie's.

[chazzerking]

Monarch's was good the last time I was there but that was nearly a year ago. Some other options to consider; Sidney St. Cafe(a block form Niche) Eleven Eleven, The Crossing(their $25 3 course prix fixe is an amazing bargain) American Place, all these are generally american eclectic, with the exception of the Crossing, which is more mediterranean. All are excellent.