Laura Lee's

Wow! A lovely neighborhood restaurant. The food and service were outstanding. We had drinks and appetizers at the bar. (Catch their Happy Hour specials 5-7) Sat at a table for our meal which was delicious. The staff was extremely accommodating as we arrived with no reservations( highly recommended for the weekend) Must haves: cornbread, Mac and cheese, chicken sandwich! The double cheeseburger was also outstanding. Very accommodating to food restrictions. Lots of gluten free options.

My first visit to Laura Lee's and I will be back. Overall four stars because the portion size for the price was very petite. I started out with the oyster appetizer and though it's only enough for one person, it was delicious and seasoned to perfection for me. I did request that they fry them to a crunch. My main course was the crab and cheese grits and, again, it didn't disappoint in taste. I was not happy with the portion of the crabcakes. It was more like an appetizer size for $28. The grits were smooth and creamy with just a hint of cheese. Overall, great experience.

Pros: Nice ambiance, beautiful presentation, interesting cocktails, the Plate appetizer was really great (especially the pickled carrots and fish dip), service was just the right level of attentiveness. Cons: My $38 steak was chewy and a bit dry (homemade A-1 was good). Cornbread appetizer was great texture but flavorless. Semicircular seats were not very comfortable or conducive to conversation. Overall, at the prices I paid I just wasn't blown away by anything I ate. Bummer because the service, presentation and atmosphere were enjoyable. I'd consider coming back for lunch or drinks, but I'd probably skip dinner.

The food was super fresh and delicious! I definitely recommend the burger and the steak and eggs. Service was a little slow, but I will definitely be back!

Seated in Laura Lees’s rear garden surrounded by fireflies we enjoyed a magical dining experience. Very dry gin martinis accompanied by fried oysters, pasta bolognese jumbo crab cakes made the experience. An unpretentious Forest Park gem not to be missed.