If you’re an empty nester looking for a sophisticated dining experience without the hustle and bustle of a younger crowd, there’s a new spot in Missouri that might just become your go-to destination. Bliss Restaurant in Florissant, a suburb near St. Louis, is creating quite a buzz with its unique age policy aimed at ensuring an upscale and tranquil atmosphere.
Bliss, which opened its doors in May, is the brainchild of owner Marvin Pate, 36, and assistant manager Erica Rhodes. Their vision? To provide a refined culinary escape, specifically tailored for a mature audience. The policy is simple yet distinct: after 7 p.m. from Wednesday through Sunday, the restaurant will not admit men under 35 or women under 30. To ensure this, IDs will be checked by hosts or even a St. Louis County police officer for those who appear to be under the age limit.
“The restaurant is just something for the older people to come do, have a happy hour, come get some good food, and not have to worry about some of the young folks who bring some of that drama,” said Rhodes during an interview with KSDK.
This innovative approach is part of Bliss’s mission to offer a serene environment where you can fully savor the flavors of exquisite Caribbean cuisine without the energetic vibe that younger diners often bring. Imagine enjoying a quiet, elegant dinner, reminiscing about your travels, or planning your next adventure without interruption.
“Of course, we have been getting a little backlash because of our policy, but that’s okay, we’re sticking to our code,” Pate added.
In a recent Facebook post, the restaurant expanded on the reason why they decided to implement the policy.
“Recently, we have had incidents where our age requirement has been violated and put on social media,” read the post, shared on May 28. “To reiterate, Bliss Caribbean Restaurant requires all guests to be 30 or older for women and 35 or older for men. This policy is in place to ensure a mature, sophisticated, and safe dining environment for everyone.“
Pate added that the restaurant aims to make its clientele actually feel like they’re on a Caribbean vacation.
According to Bliss’s chef Alex Dixon, all of the cooks are from Jamaica and the food and cocktails take much of its inspiration from Caribbean cuisine.
“We offer delicious oxtails, fresh snapper, jerk lambchops, wonderful cabbage, fresh snapper and more. All of it is delicious and Jamaican-style,” Dixon told KSDK
Bliss is more than just a dining spot; it’s a haven for those who appreciate a quieter, more sophisticated dining experience. So, if you’re ready to indulge in some delicious Caribbean dishes and unwind in a refined setting, Bliss Restaurant might just be your perfect match, a dining experience that truly caters to your pace and preferences.
“I think Bliss is a home away from home. You can come here and actually feel like you’re at a resort. People will feel like they’re on a vacation,” the owner said.
Rhodes added that the restaurant has no plans to change its rules anytime soon.
“I would tell those younger ones to come patronize the business once you turn 30 or 35 because we’re going to be here for a while,” she said.
