Tony's

User Rating: 2 out of 5 stars

Overhyped and resting on laurels: I travel all over the country and have the opportunity to eat at fine restaurants from New York to Seattle, so I have a lot to compare with Tony's. As a St Louisan, it's sad for me to see an institution decline. Despite its relatively new location, Tony's is an old St Louis place that's resting on its laurels. Time is passing it by. When I first went to Tony's 25 years or so ago, it was cash-only and was truly a prestigious place. Things have changed, and not for the better.

We had an 8 pm reservation. At 9:00, after at least six groups arriving later than us were seated, we asked what was going on, and it seemed we'd been forgotten. An astonishing lapse of service. The maitre d' was obsequiously apologetic, but the poor service was not just him - it also included the bar staff who failed to wonder why we'd been sitting there for an hour and who never bothered to offer to refresh our drinks.

The food was so-so. My dover sole was salty; my wife's escargot seemed warmed-over, although her lobster was reasonably good. After ordering, I asked the waiter for a wine recommendation, thinking that he'd know something that would go well with my sole. His first question: would I prefer something sweet or dry. Sheesh!

There are other restaurants in St Louis that are better than this.

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User Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Tony's is Tony's: We've just experienced another delicious and delightful evening at Tony's. Our table of six was, to a person, pleased as pleased can be with all that this legendary dining establishment offers.

I've been eating at Vince Bommarito's place since it was a few blocks north, near the Continental Trailways and Greyhound bus stations and the old Produce Row. That was in a time long past, when it was called Tony's Spaghetti house. Those were the days of red and white checked tablecloths, wicker basketed chianti bottles serving as candle holders and delicous spaghetti and meatballs. It was a simpler place in a simpler time.

Over the years Tony's grew to greatness and became synonomous with being the best of the best. The high standards of food and service that remains the hallmark of Tony's, helped raise the quality of a multitude of many other dining houses past and present; helping to make St. Louis one of the great culinary cities in America.

The physical atmosphere of Tony's has changed, and I miss the way it was, but it must be understood that they were literally forced to move as their building had to make way for "progress" related to the expansion of the Convention Center and football stadium area. Tony's should have been granted an exemption and allowed to stay; but what's over is over. Vince could have gone anywhere in the Metro area, but chose (wisely, I believe) to stay downtown and just a short distance from his old place. Tony's Equitable Building location is roomy yet warm. The decor has an understated richness and the sound level is the best of any dining room around. In most new restaurants it's difficult to carry on a conversation due to poor acoustics, but at Tony's you can converse easily and the space between tables keeps your talk as confidential as you desire.

The quality of what Tony's serves and the manner in which it is all prepared is unparalleled. The service, from arrival at the door until you return to your car, is smooth and unequaled. You are made to feel welcome in a most personal and sincere manner and you're neve rushed or talked down to. The staff from valet to busboy and every person in between is pleasant, considerate and professional. They are tops. The menu is extensive and everything we've had on our visits has been prepared and served to perfection, and I do mean perfection.

Vince has groomed Vince, Jr. in such a manner that when Sr. decides to retire, which we hope he does not, the legacy of Tony's will live on without missing a beat.

Tony's is not inexpensive, but quality of it's type always comes at a price. It's worth it. It's worth it to be able to make a reservation and have your table waiting for you, to have the staff know your name, to never have to wonder if a waiter is ever going to replenish your water or bring fresh bread, to get the pre-dinner and post-dinner items courtesy of Tony's, to relax and be pampered for 2 to 3 hours, to have so many dishes prepared tableside, to have your carry-outs taken to your car, to have your car ready for you and of course to know that you've had the finest food, prepared in a 5 Star manner, and that you won't be popping Tums later. A night at Tony's is a night to remember.

As a published St. louis historian, broadcaster, newspaper columnist and frequent reviewer of restaurants, I'm often asked which is the best restaurant in St. Louis. My answer is that there are several really supurb dining houses and private clubs to be experienced in St. Louis, but year after year, decade after decade, the best of the best remains - Tony's.

Ron (Johnny Rabbitt) Elz

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User Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

The best Italian dinner.: Tony's is an excellent place to enjoy Italian cuisine. Vince Bommaritto takes the time to personally greet each of his patron's and ask his or her opinion on the meal. If you are looking for an evening of fine dining and excellent service then Tony's is the place to go. It is a touch of elegance and a hearty meal while surrounding yourself within great company.

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