Best Casual Restaurants in Soulard / Benton Park

Eric was a great server - he took care of us well. I had the salmon, grilled. My wife had the sea bass - it was delicious! We're not big on orzo as a side, so we split a generous serving of mashed potatoes. We laughed about broccoli being the "seasonal" vegetable in late December. I guess it's seasonal somewhere! We were surprised there wasn't bread on the table. No dessert - too full.

Made reservations and was seated immediately. Great atmosphere and the food was amazing. Definitely busy but fairly family friendly. Great playlist! Can't wait to go back and try more items.

Proposed to my girlfriend in one of the chalets and it was the most romantic dining we’ve ever had. The food was absolutely incredible and our server Joe was fantastic. He was extremely knowledgeable and fun! The Ameretto Cream Pie was the best dessert we’ve ever had!!! Absolutely recommend this place to anyone and everyone!!!

Being an executive chef in the past, I’m usually not all that impressed with restaurants. I’m frugal. I figure if I’m going to spend money on someone else to prepare my food, I’d better be making yummy noises with every bite… RARELY does that happen. For our 34th anniversary, my wife and I decided to give Russel’s a go. The atmosphere was quiet and charming, intimate. The wine selection was well suited to the menu. We started with the baked ricotta… Simple, delicious, unctuous. Main course: I ordered the pork chops, my wife ordered the pot roast. Two simple, humble, basic entrées readily found in any home kitchen. THIS was not home cooking. Both meals were visually stunning. The pot roast was melt in your mouth, delicious. The hint of sweetness form the braising reduction, paired with the light bite of the horseradish, along the the creaminess of the potatoes was a perfect bite. My meal, the pork chops, ummm… WOW! A thick double chop, that I honestly thought would be on the bland side. However, the chef was able to pull flavor all the way through the chop. Cooked to a perfect med-rare center, without the exterior becoming even a little dry and chewy is a feat, but they did it. The depth of flavor was amazing, tasting different nuances in every bite. Yes, I made yummy noises with every bite, my apologies to the table next to us. As a chef, I’m usually left searching for that “extra something” in my food… it’s called “love”. The back of the house staff is obviously very skilled, producing an incredible plate, but they also put their heart into their craft, giving that “extra something” that we crave. Hat’s off, knives down to you Russel’s on Macklind. You’ve made this chef very happy.

Bob always offers a genuine warm welcome. The specials change regularly enough to keep provide a nice array of options from salads to pasta. I opted for the cioppino & house salad today which did not disappoint. John was an award-winning server.