About 25 miles south of downtown St. Louis sits the charming historic town of Kimmswick, where Mary Hostetter owns and runs the equally charming Blue Owl Restaurant and Bakery. Thanks to Hostetter's decidedly gracious attitude, the restaurant and bakery serve as a delightful throwback to country diners, but with the style of a Southern plantation. An exceptionally friendly waitstaff with country flair – female servers don blue apron dresses – and live dulcimer music on the veranda contribute to the homey atmosphere. Down-home comfort food-delights include biscuits and gravy topped with crumbled sausage, chicken-fried steak, and chicken and dumplings. A quiche special is offered daily, as are sandwiches served on croissants with soup on the side. Given The Blue Owl's roots as a successful home-baking business, it is not surprising that the extensive selection of pastries, cookies, cakes and pies entices the masses as well. In particular, try the Levee High Apple Pie, a mound of apple pie created to commemorate the Great Flood of 1993 that nearly destroyed Kimmswick. Voted Best Pie in 2008 Riverfront Times critics' poll. Reservations suggested for parties of five or more. No alcohol available. Kids menu. Serving breakfast and lunch Tue–Sun. Closed Mon.