MABEL SUEN
Turn will begin dinner service on March 1st.
The well-reviewed restaurant, which opened in May 2017, was originally conceptualized as a breakfast and lunch spot, giving Kirkland the freedom to do evening catering events in the building's events space but have evenings off when he could.
In a press release announcing the news, Kirkland explains his decision to open for dinner as one based on popular demand. And, indeed, Turn's dinner service is welcome news to theater-goers, whose options for pre-event dining in the area are limited. For a neighborhood that boasts such institutions as the Fox Theater and renowned Powell Hall, one could argue that only BaiKu Sushi Lounge, the Dark Room and Lucha are theater-worthy options close enough to be considered "walking distance" in a car-centric town like St. Louis.
Other options are either just far enough way to require parking twice (Small Batch, Hugo's Pizzeria, the Fountain on Locust, Vito's), too informal for a big night out (Triumph Grill) or both informal and too far for anyone walking (Southern, Pappy's). The elegant Turn is just two blocks from the Fox and should be eminently theater-worthy.
Kirkland still hopes to keep a work-life balance, so even with its new hours, Turn will only be open for dinner Thursday through Saturday, from 5 to 10 p.m. Still, that should work perfectly for symphony lovers or drama queens.
Guests should expect a mix of small plates, shareables and entrees in the signature style Kirkland describes as "surprising and updated modern cuisine," emphasizing a farm-to-table philosophy honed while leading the kitchen at Bowood Farms' Cafe Osage.
Hopefully, Kirkland's announcement will turn the page on this regrettable situation and be one more step toward fashioning Midtown into the stylish, dining and entertainment destination it can be.
We are always hungry for tips and feedback. Email the author at [email protected]
