The Wine Cellar - Posted 8/21/07
505 Cherry Street
Columbia, MO 65201
573-442-7281
Columbia is a city filled with distinct shops and restaurants
that offer an eclectic mix of style and taste. Adding to that list is
the fabulous Wine Cellar & Bistro. Located on the
cobble-stoned Cherry Street you might have passed the
Bistro a few times and not even known it. Don’t let that happen
again.
If creative décor and style received awards The Wine Cellar would be tops. A slight ramp leads down to a dining room sided with a wine bar. Over 1000 wine bottles adorn every noke and cranny. The daytime light is diffused from cork-strung curtains while wine crates are meticulously arranged on tables. Local contemporary art and big comfy purple chairs add to the wonderful atmosphere of The Wine Cellar.
Of course the wine list is stellar, that goes with out saying. By glass or bottle you can have a taste of everything. In fact, in 2005 and 2006 Wine Spectator Magazine recognized The Wine Cellar’s selection as comparable to outstanding wine lists of fabulous restaurants across the world. With such a vast variety The Wine Cellar & Bistro is sure to please any palate and pocketbook.
With different menus for lunch and dinner you’ll always have great
options for anytime of day. Award winning executive chef and owner Craig
Cyr’s cuisine is a unique stylistic blend between traditional and
eclectic. His fresh and natural presentations are a result of his emphasis
on local ingredients with a French flair.
I visited The Wine Cellar & Bistro for lunch and was pleasantly surprised by the vast lunch menu. Avocado Blue Crab Cakes, Blackened Gulf Shrimp and even Alligator Cheesecake can all start your lunch. Tea sandwiches, baguettes, salads, and an array of entrees will also make your decision harder. You can even mix a half baguette, cup of soup, and salad if you just can’t decide.
The Pan Seared Wild Salmon found it’s way in front of me. The flaky Salmon was served with coconut green bamboo rice risotto and a melody of cantaloupe and cucumber salsa. The fish was a beautiful pink with just slight crisp form the pan searing. The salmon rested on the salsa, which proved to be an excellent pairing.
Finishing lunch with a sweet indulgence is always a plus and The Wine Cellar can make it happen. The Chocolate Soufflé cake found it’s way to the table in no time, and I’ll admit it disappeared in no time as well. An oversized martini glass was layered with fresh cut strawberries, smooth chocolate soufflé and slices of crème bruleed bananas. It was one of the best desserts I’ve had.
The Wine Cellar & Bistro is a place that would stand out if it weren’t
so laid back. It’s enjoyable atmosphere and lively décor
make for a great experience. Chef Craig Cyr would love to have
you in for lunch, dinner or a great glass of wine, they have a few.
Adam L.
Food Evangelist
foodevangelist@midmodiningguide.com
MidMoDiningGuide.com
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