Missouri Athletic Club: A Culinary Revolution in Clayton
In 2025, the Missouri Athletic Club (MAC) revealed plans to expand its footprint in the St. Louis area with a new clubhouse in Clayton. This third location aims to complement the existing downtown and West St. Louis County clubs, merging luxury and business networking in a modern setting. Set to open in the spring of 2026, the MAC Clayton will occupy the 14th and 15th floors of the Pierre Laclede Center, previously home to the prestigious St. Louis Club.
Executive Chef Bogdan Danila: A Culinary Visionary
A pivotal highlight of this venture is the appointment of Bogdan Danila as the executive chef. Danila’s renowned culinary background is marked by prestigious positions, including executive sous chef at Gordon Ramsay’s Restaurant Petrus in London and executive chef at The Clocktower in NYC, which earned a Michelin star in 2017 under his leadership.
Chip Misch, General Manager and Chief Operating Officer of the MAC, expressed confidence in Danila’s capabilities. “His technical mastery, creativity, and sincere commitment to hospitality align with the MAC’s mission,” he remarked. The culinary program at MAC Clayton promises an extraordinary dining experience, reflective of Danila’s sophisticated approach.
A Commitment to Local and Sustainable
Danila sees his role at MAC Clayton as a unique opportunity. Since relocating to St. Louis in October, he has prioritized building relationships with local producers and purveyors, showcasing his dedication to sustainability and community. Raised on a ranch in Bistrita, Romania, his early exposure to farm-to-table practices profoundly influences his culinary philosophy.
“It set the foundation for everything I do,” he reflects, underscoring the importance of genuine sourcing in creating exquisite dishes.
The Culinary Landscape of MAC Clayton
At MAC Clayton, Danila will oversee substantial kitchen operations, including two kitchens totaling roughly 8,000 square feet and a team of about 25 cooks. His vision includes crafting most offerings in-house, from pastries to charcuterie. The 15th-floor dining area will feature seating for around 100 guests, alongside smaller private dining spaces, creating an intimate yet vibrant dining atmosphere.
Members can expect refined culinary innovations with a classic French flair. Anticipated menu highlights include exquisite dishes such as foie gras and pheasant. The emphasis on customization allows members to request tailored dishes, enhancing the exclusive dining experience. For instance, if a member returns from a hunting expedition in Scotland, Danila and his team can recreate that unique meal.
A Casual Affair on the 14th Floor
The 14th floor will host a more casual dining concept, showcasing comfort food favorites like patty melts and burgers without sacrificing quality or creativity. Danila has been keen on exploring local flavors and traditions, promising to incorporate St. Louis culinary staples into this menu. Both floors provide spectacular views of the cityscape, elevating the overall dining experience.
Embracing the Community
In his early months in St. Louis, Chef Danila has immersed himself in the local culinary scene, frequenting beloved spots like Sportsman’s Park and Nathaniel Reid Bakery. “I love the community already,” he shares, noting the hard work and dedication he’s observed in local establishments. His enthusiasm for the local food culture adds an enriching layer to his culinary program at MAC Clayton.
By combining impeccable culinary standards with a deep-rooted sense of community, MAC Clayton is set to emerge as a beacon of excellence in St. Louis’s dining landscape, offering members both luxury and an authentic culinary journey.