Anita Cafe & Bar is serving bright, Lebanese-inspired cuisine in Midtown St. Louis

The welcome revival of this particular corner of Midtown gathers momentum with this bright and airy café and bar. High ceilings, leafy plants and floor-to-ceiling windows set the scene for an enjoyable brunch from a menu largely inspired by owner Anita Abdul-Karim’s Lebanese heritage. The zaatar toast can comfortably be split between two: It features crusty sourdough spread with the eponymous Middle Eastern spice blend and topped with cherry tomatoes, slices of cucumber and feta. 

Ful medames is a traditional breakfast dish combining warmed fava and garbanzo beans infused with flavor – garlic, cumin and parsley – and comfort in equal measure. For added enjoyment, tear off a piece of the accompanying pita bread and spoon some of the ful on top. Fatteh layers pita chips in a stew of garbanzo beans, eggplant and bell peppers, with yogurt and nuts lending extra flavor and texture. The drink list includes rose lattes and Arabic coffee alongside espresso drinks, and there are cocktails if you’re in celebratory mood.

Anita Cafe & Bar, 2700 Locust St., St. Louis, anitacafeandbar.square.site