By Mary K. Morgan

New St Louis attractions are popping up weekly, and some deserve a mention. One of my latest visits was to the Lumiere Hotel at 999 North Second St.  This corner is now home to the House of Savoy, an upscale eatery that shares the block with the newly remodeled, lavish all-suite hotel. Naturally I took the opportunity to dine while I was in the neighbor hood.

First, the newly re-modeled Lumiere Hotel was very impressive. The atrium lobby was a step above my expectations.  Water and light played a major role in the modern, inviting décor.  All of the accommodations at the hotel are suites and the well designed floor plan maximizes the space. The sitting room is tastefully and comfortably appointed with coffee table, chairs, sofa and a large flat screen television. Just off the main space is a well stocked wet bar, table and chairs. The bathroom is a bit small, but functional, well designed and pleasantly decorated. The large bedroom had two queen-sized beds, an ample closet and another flat-screen television. My particular suite had a view of the River, which added a lovely backdrop to the bedroom.

All of the accoutrements of luxury were included, fluffy robes, high-end bathing products and a well stocked mini-bar. Even a classy little sewing kit was to be discovered among the bath and body products. All indications were that the hotel wished to make my stay as comfortable, and special as possible. And they succeeded.

The visit to the House of Savoy was the other pleasant aspect of my stay downtown. The remodeling of the former St. Louis Fish Market is topnotch. Although the basic floor plan remains the same, the ambiance has been transformed into one with a distinctly European flair that reflects the glory of the Italian dynasty of the same name, Savoy.

To begin my dining experience, I had a fresh Mozzarella and tomato salad with a basil/olive oil dressing. Not one to deny myself, I added an order of toasted ravioli for good measure. As an entrée, I opted for the “Seared Medallions of Filet Mignon with roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables and a porcini mushroom sauce.” I let the waiter decide on a good, house wine to accompany the main course, and he didn’t steer me wrong. Tiramisu was my dessert of choice, but I must confess, it was very difficult to make a choice from the tempting list of sweets.

All in all, it was quite an elegant meal and it came with a reasonable tab.

The complete menu is available online at http://www.lumiereplace.com/house-tof-savoy.aspx .