The Inns at St. Albans is that rare little getaway city-dwellers can discover practically in their own backyards, the type that offers respite in a setting that might as well be half a world away. It’s a scenic spot for a bunk and a bite, so to speak, though it’s the eats that are keeping Chef D. Scott Phillips on the map.

The unique French toast offerings that are the hallmark of breakfasts at the historic Inns at St. Albans pose a very interesting challenge to wine-lovers. Most of the time, the simple egg-dipped bread fried in butter is the bastion of breakfast or brunch, meals where the drink of choice is more often a cocktail like a bloody mary or mimosa, or maybe a café au lait.

When East coast native Dorian Tomace had the opportunity to transfer to St. Louis for a job opportunity, she thought why not! A change in pace from the hustle and bustle of city living to the more relaxed lifestyle of the Midwest was appealing. After a home-finding visit where she had zeroed in on Chesterfield, Clayton and the Central West End, Dorian fell in love with the urban vibe of the Cortex area on the eastern edge of the CWE. 

It was the need for more space that prompted Melinda and John Ross to start looking for a “forever” home. They loved to entertain; their two children would soon be teenagers; and they wanted to stay in the immediate near-West County vicinity. 

There are two hallmarks that dominate the landscape in this stunning Ladue garden. One is a profusion of hydrangeas that flow along walkways, drift through beds and even climb brick walls. The other is an immense, regal grandiflora magnolia that holds court against the back of the red brick house and makes a sweeping bow across the brick patio to embrace both hard structures and fold them into the beauty of the garden.

Wow your neighbors with hyper-vivid flowers sprouting in your garden this spring. Your garden will pop with bright shades of pink, orange and yellow against the greenery. Check out local landscapers' favorite varieties to plant for a vibrant garden glow.