Monarch Readies New Menu, Helps National Children's Cancer Society

Monarch (7401 Manchester Road, Maplewood; 314-644-3995) -- which some hack called the second-most important restaurant to open in St. Louis last decade -- will reopen this Monday, August 2, after several weeks of renovations and menu planning. The most significant change: Executive chef Josh Galliano has revamped the bar and bistro menu to highlight his Southern heritage: gumbo, hush puppies, po' boys, shrimp and grits and much, much more.

(Fans of Galliano's upscale cooking needn't fear. The dining room menu returns.)

Want a sneak preview of the new menu? Want to help a worthy cause? On Saturday, July 31, Monarch will host a grand reopening benefit for the National Children's Cancer Society with live music, cocktails and, of course, food. The cost is $75. You can reserve your spot at the official National Children's Cancer Society website.