Best American Restaurants in Southwest Garden

We had a 7:45 pm reservation, arrived about 15 mins early and had to wait 30-40 mins to get our table. We stood in the bar while waiting. Bar was fairly loud. We enjoyed gin rummy drinks. Our table was in a quieter side room. We shared the chorizo-stuffed dates as a starter. Very tasty. Hubby had the gyro and love it. I had the mixed grill which was excellent. We shared the creme brulee for dessert. It was excellent. We took a slice of key lime pie home to our daughter. She thought it was fabulous.

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.

We had the best time dining with friends at Olive and Oak. Our server was outstanding, along with all of the hosts, bussers, and additional support staff. Our meal was perfectly paced and gave us time to enjoy each course, as well as visit with our friends. The food and drinks were absolutely spectacular, as always. To top things off, we were gifted a bottle of wine before leaving from the manager. Hows that for a wow-factor?!

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.

The food is always fantastic...my favorite at lunch is the salmon salad with avocado and mango. A delicious combination. We were lucky enough to be served by Jason, who is friendly, energetic and a perfect waiter.