Cooper's Hawk Winery and Restaurant on the Plaza

Cooper's Hawk opened its doors today, solidifying itself as Missouri's first winery and restaurant under one roof. Replacing the former 810 Zone (good riddance, sports bar!), Cooper's Hawk offers over 13,000 feet of drinking and eating space including a wine tasting room, gift shop, bar and enough seating for you and your 300 friends.

It's a flipping huge space.

Upon my arrival I was greeted with a glass of complimentary bubbly.

They certainly know the way to my heart.

Then I walked past these...

You're two for two Cooper's Hawk.

There was a nice view on the way up to my table.

In addition to carrying several outside labels, Cooper's Hawk has their own private label of wines, including the Cooper's Hawk White - a semi-dry wine with flavors of lemon grass, citrus and pineapple.

I'm not a wine snob, so I won't go into great detail, but the description is right on. This was a great wine.

Another favorite was the complimentary pretzel bread. You must eat this bread, it is so fantastic.

In addition to their addictive-as-crack pretzel bread, the restaurant offers modern, American dining including a bazillion menu items that will overwhelm or excite you.

I was overwhelmed.

I was there for lunch but there was no lunch menu, making it even more difficult to decide between the fifty entrees that were available.

Personally, I like a menu more simplified.

I ordered the portabella sandwich.

It was one of the better portabella sandwiches I've had. The balsamic marinated shroom was so perfect and tasty and Cooper's Hawk really goes all out on the bread. The toasted focaccia had a tomato and herb crust that was phenomenal.

My side of Asian slaw was equally delicious.

The slaw had a smoky flavor that was odd for a slaw but right on point with my taste buds.

Another item I suggest for lunch is the Asian BBQ Pork Tenderloin sandwich.

This sandwich consists of pork, prosciutto, pineapple, Swiss cheese, ginger scallion mayo and Asian slaw on sweet onion pocket bread. I can't think of a better combo. The meat and pineapple combined with the melted cheese....ugh, heaven!

Beyond being a great replacement to 810 Sports Zone, Cooper's Hawk is a great addition to the Plaza restaurant scene. As long as the pretzel bread and complimentary bubbly keep flowing, I know I'll be back for more.