Best Neighbourhood Gem Restaurants in The Grove

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.

Another perfect evening. For the appetizer, we went with the Arancini. Light and delicious. The salads were great. House made croutons and dressing were delicious. For entrees, we enjoyed the Veal Parmigiana and Chicken Marsala. Each couldn’t have been better. Full of flavor, perfect portion size. I want to highlight the Gnocchi with the cheese sauce I had on the side. This was heavenly…light but bursting with flavor. Wouldn’t change a thing. 10/10!

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 experience was wonderful from start to finish! The server was welcoming & quick to get our drinks. We had several starters which were great. Cannot miss the French onion soup. We had burgers & a steak. The pommes frites are outstanding...a treat! Overall one of our favorite spots to dine with great cocktails & wine list.