Bowood by Niche – St. Louis, MO

• Bowood by Niche is tucked into a nursery and garden shop just north of the Central West End
• Open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, they serve brunch seven days a week
• It is part of the Niche family of restaurants headed by James Beard Winner Gerald Craft
• Don’t miss the homemade pork sausage patties

Hidden inside Bowood Nursery is a wonderful little brunch restaurant. The setting is beautiful, particularly in season when the nursery is blooming, but even out of season the building is worth a visit. Bowood by Niche is part of Gerald Craft’s empire which also includes Brasserie by Niche and Pastaria. Bowood is only opened during the day and focuses on brunch with dishes like maryland crab benedict, cacio e peppe eggs, and a breakfast sandwich with a housemade pork sausage patty. 

They have a full bar with craft cocktails including the Blackberry 75 a bubbly combination of gin, blackberry, lemon, and sparkling wine. But brunch traditionalists can enjoy a mimosa – details. 

For those interested in breakfast, the blueberry pancakes are extra thick and fluffy with a crispy, caramelized bottom. Two pancakes are topped with butter, powdered sugar and blueberries. The berries, fresh and plentiful are also cooked into the pancakes. 

If the “unch” of brunch is calling, there are several sandwiches on the menu including a burger, a chicken caesar wrap, and a turkey sandwich. The rueben features a pleasantly fatty housemade pastrami topped with swiss, russian dressing, and sauerkraut. All are served with well-seasoned shoestring fries. 

The homemade pork sausage might be the unsung star of Bowood. It can be added to any meal as a side order so there is no excuse not to try it. Other easy add-ons include an ever changing selection of coffee cake, muffins, scones, and cookies. 

Don’t save brunch for the weekend. Get to Bowood during the week when the crowds are lighter and the food is just as good. 

Pro Tip: There is street parking out front, but they also have a free, shared lot across the street. Park there. 

For more see our travel bites page.