Piggybacking on the success of the three “backyard” tents behind The Crossing in Clayton, owner Jim Fiala ordered four 10-by-10 footers for the patio at his sister restaurant, Acero, in Maplewood. They're the perfect size for four to six-ish diners. “The customers love them,” he says, but is "surprised the weather has yet to be a deterrent. We had people in all three tents at The Crossing last night. It was cold outside, but it’s not half bad inside the tents.” General manager Adam Gnau adds that three more tents will be installed on the adjoining grass at Acero. "We have Schlafly Bottleworks to thank for that," he says.

Opened in 1998, the Crossing(7823 Forsyth Boulevard, Clayton; 314-721-7375) has stood the test of time — remaining not only relevant but holding its own in the city's crème de la crème. The restaurant owes its staying power to owner Jim Fiala's beautiful fusion of French and Italian cuisine and his prowess with classical techniques, exemplified by dishes like his luscious three-cheese egg ravioli or pan-seared foie gras with berries. Fiala was doing "farm to table" long before it was a buzzword.

Any restaurant can serve you a plate of thinly sliced Iberico ham. Few besides the Crossing would instead make that ham the centerpiece of a salad with arugula, fennel and Pecorino Romano cheese, enhancing the meat’s luxury through bracing juxtaposition. Few also would forgo the easy comfort of braised short ribs for a more refined preparation of braised veal cheek that collapsed into its own heady juices.

IN A NUTSHELL: Before all the national buzz, there were the trailblazers like the Crossing, where owner Jim Fiala still flawlessly executes on the dishes that have defined his restaurant since 1998 while empowering fresh talent, such as chef Thu Rein Oo, to ensure the restaurant remains innovative.

Why you should go: Whenever my family is in town, we often enjoy a meal at The Crossing, which truly is the crossroads for French and Italian cuisine. The chef combines French and Italian influences into his food while using locally sourced ingredients. My personal favorites?

- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (281 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (5.0/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$$$- Address: 7823 Forsyth Blvd, Clayton, Saint Louis, MO 63105-3307- Read more on Tripadvisor

– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (277 reviews)– Detailed ratings: Food (5.0/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)– Type of cuisine: American– Price: $$$$– Address: 7823 Forsyth Blvd, Clayton, Saint Louis, MO 63105-3307– Read more on Tripadvisor

I love that they have lunch service that’s just as high quality. Sometimes lunch is the only time you get together while the kids are in school, so if that’s your date, this is a great option!

7823 Forsyth BlvdClayton, MO 63105(314) 721-7375 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. The Crossing is a high-end restaurant serving imaginative Italian and French-inspired cuisine.

The Crossing is a fine dining restaurant that blends French and Italian culinary traditions. Chef Jim Fiala’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients shines through in every dish.

7823 Forsyth Blvd, Clayton, MO 63105Phone: 314-721-7375 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Jim Fiala (@thecrossingstl)

The Tavern Kitchen & Bar – 2961 Dougherty Ferry Rd Suite 101, Saint Louis, MO 63122-3378 – Phone: +1 636-825-0600