First Look: Layla in Webster Groves

Layla has officially brought its brand of gourmet burgers and shawarma to the county. The restaurant’s second location opened on Monday, Feb. 11 at 20 Allen Ave., No. 130 in Webster Groves, the former location of Milagro Modern Mexican.

Most menu items at the new location are favorites from the restaurant’s flagship eatery in The Grove. Fans of specialties like the veggie burger Jane Says, the Cluck Morris chicken sandwich and, of course, shawarma can still get their fixes.

There are also a few creations diners can only get at the new spot, including the Second Mortgage burger, which somehow fits two dry-aged beef patties, bacon, an egg and two types of cheese between two halves of a brioche bun.

The cocktail list includes a couple of Webster-specific drinks as well: The Elder Statesman (the name is a nod to the Webster High School mascot) combines two spirits not usually associated with each other—Buffalo Trace bourbon and St. Germain elderflower liqueur—into a floral Manhattan-esque tipple, while the Desperate Housewife pairs Grey Goose vodka with spicy Ancho Reyes chile liqueur and creme de cacao, among other ingredients, for a creamy, sweet and spicy indulgence. There are also more wine options available than at The Grove location, along with an array of beers.

Owner Jason Sparks said most of the changes to the 125-seat space were aesthetic.  While some remnants of the former decor remain, like the distressed wood planks and stone backsplash behind the bar, the vibe is decidedly more casual, with classic music and movie posters on the walls and hand-painted panels depicting old school tattoo flash on the front of the bar.

Down the line, Layla will bring its popular Tuesday Night Trivia, hosted by Geeks Who Drink, to the new location. Weekend brunch kicks off Saturday, March 2 and a 30-seat patio in front will debut once the weather fully cooperates.

Here’s a look at what Layla has brought to Webster Groves. 

Matt Sorrell is a staff writer at Sauce Magazine.