Russell House Tavern

The night before Pigalle there was Russell House Tavern. My Dad happened to be out and about in Harvard Square and invited my sister and I to dinner, letting us choose the place. Separately we each suggested Russell House, which is no surprise considering they are consistently excellent; we both knew the cocktails and food would serve to impress. Plus, the lively yet casual environment would aptly fit the impromptu mood. The fact that it happened to be restaurant week was an added bonus, and of course, we all had to participate after we were seated and gave the menu a run down. Leah and Dad ordered the same of each course. You can't go wrong with the RHT raw bar and as far as their entree goes, they remarked over again how fresh and well prepared the bass was. I thought their dessert was better than mine, and so did they.

1. RHT Raw Bar Sampler | 2 Duxbury Count Neck clams, 2 local oysters, 2 jumbo shrimp
2. Grilled Striped Sea Bass | escarole, borlotti beans, anchovy roasted carrots
3. Lemon Cheesecake | lavender honey

As for my meal, this was my first time eating lamb tartare! I will likely compare future lamb tartares to Chef Scelfo's intriguing and delicious preparation. My braised oxtails were incomparable as well, perhaps one of the best entrees I've had in recent memory. Every ingredient was complimentary and flawless. Dessert didn't blow my mind perhaps because the appetizer and entrée were a very tough act to follow. I had high expectations and the berry mousse didn't quite live up.1. American Lamb Tartar | anise cracker, orange & fennel, juniper honey
2. Sassafras Braised Archer Farms Oxtails | caraway spätzle roasted apples, spicy glazed onions

3. Berry Mousse | chocolate sauce

Russell House is a shining example of why I get excited for Restaurant Week. They continue to remain a reason alone to visit Harvard Square. Many thanks for treating us to dinner, Dad!

Russell House Tavern

14 John F. Kennedy St.

Cambridge, MA 02138