It has been a long while, I am travelling for work ... so not enough time for any updates. Anyhow, I have one today --- PASTARIA by Niche in St. Louis, MO. This restaurant is pretty new, a very nice cozy decor bricks and woods, and open kitchen.

It was crowded even for a Wednesday evening. The wait wasn't bad, about 20 minutes. They will take down your name and phone number; and text you when your table is ready, very convenient. Menu was one simple page and our focus was the Pasta!

Just two girls, so we didn't order a lot. Food was good, but service was bland.

[caption id="attachment_1240" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Packed for a Wednesday evening Packed for a Wednesday evening[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_1241" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Simple 1 page menu and dessert menu Simple 1 page menu and dessert menu[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_1242" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Complimentary Freshly Bake Bread, loved their special spicy oil for dipping Complimentary Freshly Bake Bread, loved their special spicy oil for dipping[/caption]

Fried Risotto Balls - lightly fried, crispy on the outside, cheesy and creamy in the inside!

[caption id="attachment_1243" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Fried Risotto Balls - must get! Fried Risotto Balls - must get![/caption]

Pappardelle - smoked pork, mascarpone, apples ....  pasta was really good, but smoked pork was way too salty!

[caption id="attachment_1244" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Pappardelle - pasta was good, but smoked pork was way too salty! Pappardelle - pasta was good, but smoked pork was way too salty![/caption]

[caption id="attachment_1245" align="aligncenter" width="750"]Tiramisu - fluffy and not overly sweet, we liked it! Tiramisu - fluffy and not overly sweet, we liked it![/caption]

Overall, the food was pretty good. I wouldn't mind to go back and try other items on the menu!