Peppe’s Apt. 2 has been on my “Must Dine” list for awhile. This week Cyndy and I drove out to Kirkwood for lunch at the Italian restaurant tucked away in a residential neighborhood on South Geyer. We pulled into the back parking lot and walked along the breezeway adjacent to the garden patio. The outdoor area was closed for the season, but a few hearty roses and plantings were still in bloom. 

The patio garden is a perfect warm-weather setting, but umbrellas are folded for the season.

Peppe’s Apt. 2. At various times over the last 100 years, the place has served as a residence, deli and restaurant.

Comfortable Elegance

Opening the side door, we came into a spacious entry area, leading to the dining room that seats about 50 people. The elegant, but inviting, space is punched up with glass chandeliers, cushy seats and framed mirrors. I love the pristine feel of the ivory-colored decor and finely set tables topped with fresh flowers. I’d have no trouble spending the afternoon here, perhaps with a cup of tea and a good book.

Elegant, yet cozy and inviting

Chairs give the air of an Italian villa. Very comfy.

The bar at Pepe’s Apt. 2

Chef-Owner Peppe Profeta

Items on the ample menu are true to Peppe’s Sicilian heritage. His culinary training started at age 10 with his grandfather back in Italy. Later, as a teenager in St. Louis, he worked in the family-owned Gian-Peppe’s on The Hill, which was named one of the top 100 restaurants in the USA. Seven years ago he migrated to Kirkwood, where he continues to charm diners with his classic Italian and Mediterranean specialties.

Peppe’s visiting with his diners as shown in this picture hanging in the entryway. Photo by Jennifer Silverberg, St. Louis Magazine, Aug 2012 

Amazing Meatballs; Tantalizing Tortellini 

When we seemed perplex by the many fine choices, Lucy, our chatty and charming server (who said she had worked there since the place opened) came to our rescue. She could bring us a small order of Mama Profeta’s meatballs, she said, and split just about any item on the menu. Perfect! We shared the meatballs, the Asparagus Tart, and the Chicken Tortellini. All were splendid, quickly prepared, and handsomely presented. 

“Holy Cannoli, Batman, These Are Homemade!”

When we demurred on dessert, Lucy gave a graphic description of the cannoli that won our hearts. So we split an order of three pieces. Besides, dividing a dessert lessen the calories by half—or so I’ve heard. Of ourselves, Cindy could always take one home to her husband. But Lucy advised against it, saying they are best enjoyed when eaten immediately. Sorry, Joe.

This is a place where delicious memories linger on—a discovery you want to share with friends. Peppe’s could easily become one of my new, most favorite places.

The menu offers half portions of many items, which is perfect for lunch.

Scenes from Peppe’s Table

Get in the mood for fine dining.

Meatballs and Polenta Fries. The signature meatballs are from an old recipe of Peppe’s mother. 

Asparagus Tart. The topping was feather light and flaky. 

Chicken Tortellini

This is a dessert you can swoon over. The warm shell contains a cool custard-like filling and is served from a chilled plate.

Cyndy and I pose briefly with the cannoli before they vanished. 

Peppe’s Apt. 2. 800 S. Geyer, Kirkwood. Open for Lunch: Tue-Fri 11a-2p; Dinner: Tue-Sat 5p-11p; Closed Sunday and Monday. Reservations recommended.