Paul Gizel

Review of The Russell House Tavern

A random choice was a good choice. I was in from C...

A random choice was a good choice. I was in from Chicago for the week while staying at one of these hotels on the Boston Harbor and I made my stop to beautiful Harvard. Before going for a stroll throughout the square, I wanted to clean up and get some lunch. I came across this place which seemed to have some good reviews and it seemed to be very popular as well.
When you first walk in, you re greeted and asked where you would like to sit.
Since I was by myself, I sat in the dining room with the upstairs bar. Within just a few short minutes of sitting down, I was greeted by Sarah. Right off the bat, Sarah seemed genuine and I knew she loved talking to people. She got me a glass of water and took my drink order.
After browsing the menu for a few short minutes, Sarah came back and asked me if I had any questions. As a matter fact, I did and I wanted to know more about the Pappardelle Bolognese.
This is where it gets fun Sarah seemed passionate and she has no problem showing that when she describes this dish. There was hand movement and body movement and she just seemed to take ownership of what she was trying to explain. I loved it.
She was confident in the dish and I was confident with her decision. So, I went with it!
While waiting, Sarah brought my drink and filled my water back up. She asked if everything was OK and she even asked if she could bring my coat downstairs so that people wouldn t step on it.
I thought, this is excellent, sure!

Everything was going smoothly. I wasn t being overpowered, over questioned and the atmosphere was just cozy. People were having a good time, the staff seemed to have smiles on their faces and there were no issues. If there were issues, the staff wasn t showing it and that s professional. After about 12 minutes, my food came out and it looked amazing and tasted amazing!
While dining, I just listened to conversation, checked some emails and on occasion, Sarah would check in with me to make sure everything was OK. She even poured me another glass of water. (Something so simple but a nice touch.)
When everything was said and done, I finished my water, finished my drink and Sarah checked in one last time to make sure everything was good. She asked if she can grab my jacket for me and I just smiled. I was amazed. Everything was in perfect rhythm. Got my check, wrote a little note of thanks and was on my way.
Honestly, this was a great visit and was at quite a few places in my first 72 hours. They re all great but this place really stood out. I loved it and I would definitely come back again if I m back in town.
Oh and by the way, as I was leaving, I learned that day was Sarah s first day