Peno Southern Italian Soul Food is defined by our rustic, fresh, authentic, hand-crafted simple dishes that touch the soul. Hand rolled pastas, slow braised meats, fresh seafood, and the finest produce of the moment take center stage with a warm casual vibe that carries you straight to nonna’s table in Calabria.
Small, easygoing eatery offering Southern Italian soul cuisine such as seafood pastas & stews.
PENO
Peno Soul Food offers simple, elegant Southern Italian dishes in the heart of Clayton, MO. Hand rolled pastas, slow braised meats, fresh seafood and the …
Brenda Hente
My friend and I went to Peno’s to celebrate a significant milestone birthday. Pepe (the Chef/Owner) made it a very special dinner for us. The whole experience did not disappoint and was so fantastic. Pepe came out and met us and sat down at our table and actually chatted with us for a while, telling us about his menu and sharing a bit of his background. Being our first time at his restaurant, we were intrigued with everything he was telling us and anxious to eat some of his food. He sent out a couple small plates of a wonderful olive and grape salad. (I could have had a large plate of this for my dinner, it was that delicious and tasted nothing like I ever had before.) For dinner we had the baked/pan seared rainbow trout w/ lemon sauce and capers, with a side fresh pasta with peas, and a braised green pepper, potato, eggplant in a red sauce dish. There were so many flavors in all of the food items I wish I knew how to make them all and could list all the ingredients. The food was top-notch, amazing! My friend and I savored every bite. We cannot wait to go back. Pepe and his staff were fantastic, great service, nice environment that was intimate, which made for a wonderful dining experience. Thank you, Pepe! You will see us again soon!
… moreAshley Kloepper
We first visited Peno in 2020 and finally made it back tonight. It was even better than we remembered! We had the meatballs, smoked mozzarella appetizer, beef tenderloin special, and beef spiedini. Peno is the perfect date night spot or for dinner with friends/gamily. Truly a gem in St. Louis and one of our favorite spots. Service is always excellent and it’s such a cute spot. We will be back!
… moreAileen Woods
The best Italian food I’ve ever tasted. The flavor profiles had depth & were seasoned to perfection. The staff was attentive & the atmosphere was cozy.
… moreAntonio Marcelino
This place is definitely a hidden gem. Very good quality Italian cuisine. The owner and staff are excellent. I love how the restaurant is upscale, but still maintains a home style feel. You’re in a restaurant, but also feels like you’re in mom’s kitchen. Even little details about the restroom how there are personal wash clothes to wash and dry your hands is really unique. The chicken cacciatore was very good. I actually really loved that it there was skin on the chicken and it’s personalized cuts. The red sauce was not too thick, homemade noodles, with fresh peppers. The bread that they bring out has a trail of olive oil inside and is easy to tear of pieces which is great for dipping. The spaghetti and clams were very good as well. A nice white sauce that complimented the homemade noodles. I’m not a seafood fan, but I was able to still enjoy this because the fishy taste was nonexistent. Arancini was prepared nicely with sides of pesto and red sauce to compliment. Perfect for dipping the arancini or bread. Not to mention the side of arugula being prepared perfectly. Zuchini flowers were absolutely amazing; almost like eating a flavorful cloud.
Food: 10/10
Staff: 10/10
Atmosphere: 10/10
If you’re looking for a restaurant with homemade homestyle family cooking, this is definitely the place for you.
… moreSarah Swaney
I am going to start by saying that I only write 5 star reviews if everything is exceptional. This place was exceptional. From the host that sat us, to the chef and owner. Everything was perfect. The food rivaled what I had in Italy this September. Parking was difficult, and we almost decided not to come, but I’m so glad we persisted. I would recommend this restaurant for a perfect date night, as the staff is so attentive and kind, and every dish we had was phenomenal! The atmosphere is charming, cozy, and warm. We got an appetizer, a bottle of wine, an entrees and a dessert. I never get dessert when I am out, but after trying the food, I couldn’t resist! I was NOT disappointed. Try the tiramisu! its huge, and I will be eating it for breakfast this morning!
… moreShannon Smock
Such a hidden gem!! IYKYK! Peno has great food, a great atmosphere, and wonderful servers. And I LOVE their pizza! My favorite is the Roberto. A very personable owner, Pepe, who will greet you at your table! Always great food and service! I love seeing pictures of his family on the walls. You know the food is made with heart and soul!
… moreSara Govero
Located in the heart of Clayton, Peno Soul Food offers Southern Italian traditions. Stepping into this cozy spot feels like entering a rustic home kitchen with dishes prepared with lots of soul.
The octopus was juicy and prepared in a red sauce, a unique take on the dish. The gnocchi was so simple and perfect. I absolutely love the fusion of the olive and grape salad.
The Chef Owner Pepe is a trip. We love him! You can taste the love and passion that goes into every plate.
… moreBrittany W
This restaurant was neat to stumble upon when deciding what to have for dinner!
My first experience was in 2021, so for 5 years almost I’ve been RAVING about how good the food is here to people. The gnocchi is some of the best I’ve had, and don’t skimp out on the pizza. I was very surprised in how much I loved their pizza!
… moreAmy Kinker
What a fabulous spot! From the incredible friendly service, absolutely delicious eggplant appetizer, The lasagna, and a trout with lemon butter that was the best I’d ever had. Pepe came out and greeted us and was so warm and welcoming. It’s a small intimate place, and I highly recommend it.
… moreSup? Watoosi
I bought the 50.00 deal for two with main Entrees and Desert and Salad and a Bottle of wonderful Wine. Was so delishous . My Pasta Dish had Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms. A must to go back and get. Might have to wait till next Mushroom season for that Entree though. Everything was Spectacular. Wood advise Anyone to go there. You will not be disappointed. ♥️
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