7 Unmissable Secrets Of Cyrano's Cafe In Webster Groves: From World's Fair Eclairs To The New Cocktail Bar
Step inside Cyrano's Cafe in Webster Groves, MO, today, December 22, 2025, and you'll immediately sense the blend of timeless St. Louis history and vibrant, modern dining. This beloved establishment, nestled in the charming Old Orchard neighborhood, has recently undergone significant updates, ensuring its status as a premier destination for both award-winning desserts and a sophisticated bistro experience is firmly secured for a new generation of patrons. The café’s enduring charm, now paired with a stunningly remodeled bar and an expanded selection of craft cocktails, makes it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an unforgettable meal or a decadent sweet treat.
The latest evolution of Cyrano's is a testament to its 60-year legacy, balancing the cozy, romantic ambiance that locals cherish with a fresh focus on contemporary culinary trends. From its early days as St. Louis's first European-style dessert and coffeehouse to its current incarnation as a full-service bistro, the restaurant continues to surprise and delight, proving that a classic can always find a way to stay current and exciting. The new changes are not just cosmetic; they represent a commitment to an elevated dining and cocktail experience.
Cyrano's Cafe: A Brief History and Modern Management Profile
Cyrano’s story is deeply interwoven with the culinary history of the St. Louis area, beginning over six decades ago. It started not in Webster Groves, but in a basement on Clayton Road.
- Original Founding: Cyrano's was founded in 1960 by Mr. and Mrs. John Marshall.
- Original Concept: It was established as St. Louis's first and only European-style dessert and coffeehouse, quickly becoming an "in place" for students and locals.
- First Location: The original spot was located in the basement of the Marshall’s Hi-Fi Showroom at 6383 Clayton Road.
- The Transition: The original Cyrano’s closed in 1996, but the beloved concept was soon revived by a new ownership group.
- Current Location: The modern Cyrano's Cafe is located at 603 East Lockwood Avenue in the heart of the Old Orchard neighborhood in Webster Groves, MO.
- Current Ownership: Today, the restaurant is headed by the dedicated family team of Chip Downs (Owner & Pastry Chef) and Melissa Downs (Owner & General Manager). They are responsible for maintaining the café’s rich history while spearheading its modern updates.
The current location in Webster Groves shares its space in a building that was originally a dealership, adding a layer of local history to its unique atmosphere. Under the stewardship of Chip and Melissa Downs, the café has expanded its offerings far beyond just desserts to include a full lunch and dinner menu, a popular Sunday brunch, and an award-winning cocktail program.
The Stunning New Bar and Elevated Cocktail Program
One of the most exciting and recent developments at Cyrano's is the unveiling of its newly remodeled bar area. This update has transformed the space, providing a fresh, updated environment for guests who are looking for more than just a sweet finish to their meal. The focus on the bar area signals Cyrano's commitment to being a full-service destination for evening dining and drinks.
The remodel was accompanied by an expansion of the bar’s offerings, which now feature an extensive selection of craft cocktails, local beer, and affordable wines. The new cocktail menu pays homage to the local St. Louis and Missouri spirits scene, with the introduction of local cocktails that showcase spirits crafted right in Missouri and Kansas. This emphasis on regional ingredients and distillers adds a unique, local flavor to the dining experience and appeals to a growing trend of patrons seeking locally-sourced beverages.
The updated bar space enhances the "cozy ambiance" that Cyrano’s is famous for, making it an ideal spot for a romantic date night, a casual happy hour, or a pre-dinner drink. The seamless integration of the historic atmosphere with modern amenities ensures that the café remains a dynamic and creative space for all types of events, from private parties to casual meetups.
The 5 Legendary Desserts That Define Cyrano's Cafe
While the bistro menu offers delightful savory options—including appetizers like Crab Cakes, New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, and Tuscan Pizza—Cyrano's reputation is built on its "famous desserts from the heart." Many of these iconic creations have followed the restaurant through its various moves and changes, becoming true St. Louis classics. These are the five desserts you absolutely must try.
1. The Cleopatra
Often referred to as *the* dessert classic at Cyrano's, The Cleopatra is a legendary creation. While the exact recipe is a tightly guarded secret, it’s known to be a rich, decadent ice cream dessert that has been a signature dish for decades. Its enduring popularity makes it the cornerstone of the dessert menu, a true piece of St. Louis culinary history you can still enjoy today.
2. The World's Fair Éclair
An early favorite that dates back to the café’s initial years, the World's Fair Éclair is a nod to the city's past. This delicate pastry is traditionally covered with French silk and served with St. Louis-based Chapman's ice cream, a detail that highlights the restaurant's long-standing connection to local producers. It’s a perfect blend of a classic European dessert with a distinct local touch.
3. Flambées for Two (Prepared Tableside)
For a truly theatrical and romantic experience, the Flambées for Two are a must. These desserts are prepared tableside, offering a dazzling show as they are set aflame. This interactive experience perfectly captures the European café tradition and adds a memorable flourish to any date night or special occasion at the Webster Groves location.
4. The Gluten-Free Chocolate Torte
Catering to modern dietary needs without sacrificing flavor, the Chocolate Torte with Pecan & Walnut Crust is a standout. This rich, dense, and satisfying dessert is completely gluten-free, ensuring that everyone can partake in the famous Cyrano's dessert tradition. It proves that the café is constantly innovating its menu while maintaining high-quality standards.
5. The Blackberry Financier
A more recent addition that showcases the Pastry Chef Chip Downs' skill, the Blackberry Financier offers a lighter, more sophisticated European flavor profile. This dessert features a French almond cake paired with a tart, refreshing blackberry sorbet, providing a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a continental pastry that is not overly heavy.
Cyrano's Cafe, under the leadership of Chip and Melissa Downs, is more than just a restaurant; it’s a living piece of St. Louis history that continues to evolve. Whether you’re drawn by the cozy ambiance, the expanded craft cocktail list, or the undeniable allure of a World's Fair Eclair, the cafe on East Lockwood Avenue remains a quintessential Webster Groves experience. The combination of classic favorites and fresh updates ensures that this Old Orchard gem will continue to charm patrons for decades to come.
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