Pink Willow Cafe is a charming addition to Cottleville

Cottleville has gained an adorable new spot for breakfast, brunch and lunch with Pink Willow Cafe. The cafe is an independently operated part of the adjoining Oak Street Inn & Lounge, which is set to open later this year. All of Pink Willow’s 1,200 square feet drip with charm, from the hand-painted willow tree mural and fresh flowers on each table to the floral selfie wall and the joyfully pink patio.

They use beans from Kansas City’s Messenger Coffee Co. to serve a full roster of espresso-based drinks for your caffeine fix, but we’re there for the bubbles. Don’t judge the Pink Willow French 75 by its sugary sweet looks: Sparkling wine, pink elderflower-rose gin, lemon juice and simple syrup make for a more balanced, tangy beverage than its appearance might imply. The mimosa flight is irresistible, including a classic orange mimosa, pineapple, mango, and a seasonal flavor (we tried the blueberry, but it has recently been replaced by a guava nectar mimosa).

The food menu is full of reliably tasty options like the fried egg sandwich, which comes on a pillowy soft brioche bun or bagel with fried egg, candied bacon or a housemade sausage patty, tomato, cheese, greens and garlic aioli. Gluten-free folks will be pleased to see plenty of substitution options are offered, and the menu also includes several “gluten-friendly” items. 

5523 Oak St., Cottleville, 636.733.6896, pinkwillowcafe.com