It is difficult to put into words how wonderful our dining experience at The Oak Grill was [a week ago now]. I will do my best to seduce you into visiting this Minneapolis gem yourself if you happen to live nearby!
In celebration of my last day of work before Summer break, my husband wanted to take me out to dinner. He refused to tell me where he was taking me, but did show me the menu, sans the title of the restaurant at the top...
I had to leave my skepticism at the door as we entered the downtown Minneapolis Macy's building, entered the elevators, and rode up to the 12th floor. The Oak Grill debuted on October 2, 1947, and not much has changed since! The room is warm and sophisticated, and is still dressed up in the historic charm of years past. The décor features rich reds and dark wood, and the restaurant still maintains the working fireplace that originated from Salisbury, England [we were lucky enough to sit at the table right next to it!]. Unlike most department store restaurants, The Oak Grill predates Macy's and remains unadulterated to this day!
Our 5:30pm reservation was entirely unnecessary for a restaurant that can accommodate 200 guests, and closes early in the evening. It is primarily a lunch venue, open Mondays 11am-3pm, Tuesday through Friday 11am-7pm, and Saturdays 11am-3pm. There were only about 10 people in the restaurant while we were there.
From the time we were seated until the time we left, we were treated like honored guests! Never in my life have I had such personalized service... I'm still left wondering if our server had the ability to read our minds (?!), she was that outstanding!!!!
Our meal began with an order of reasonably priced and well executed cocktails, after which we were each served a giant homemade popover. This was the first popover I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying in my life, yet I am confident that I will forever compare future popovers to this one. This pastry was light and flaky on the outside, yet buttery and soft on the inside. If I had demonstrated any kind of restraint after my first delicious bite [complete with a blissful, closed-eye reaction], I would have been able to present you with a picture of this masterpiece.
Our server recommended three different entrees to us that evening, of which we chose two. I ordered Emeril Lagasse's Caramelized Salmon, and Jeff decided on the Oven Baked Meatloaf. They were truly the BEST versions of these basic comfort foods I have ever tasted. The salmon was brushed with a mouthwatering sweet/savory glaze, and the side of asparagus risotto rivaled any other risotto I've tasted... it was indulgently creamy!
The dim lighting in the restaurant didn't provide for exquisite photos, but hopefully you will have the opportunity to experience it yourself :-)
As for the meatloaf, I must preface it by saying that I make meatloaf A LOT! Yet, it took every ounce of restraint I had not to ask our server for their recipe. If you typically say '
meh' to meatloaf, I guarantee you will change your mind after eating this one. The sides -- mashed potatoes and steamed veggies -- weren't anything special, but ohhhh that meatloaf! The pine nuts and spinach made it so unique, and at just $11.00, it was a winner :-)
Again, the photo doesn't do it justice -- the meatloaf is in the middle.
Our perfectly priced and perfectly sized desserts were equally delicious!
Caramel Bread Pudding
Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble with Izzy's Ice Cream
In truth, Jeff and I could have split one between the two of us because we enjoyed dinner so very much and were quite full, but it was worth it.
I rarely come away from a dinner without any negative comments, but in this case, it really was a 5 star experience, hands down! I'm picky when I'm spending money to have someone prepare my food for me, and if it isn't well thought out and well-executed, or if I could make it better myself, then that is a disappointing experience. At The Oak Grill, everything was superb :-)
Go there now, and fall in love with this Minneapolis gem!
Librarian turned Foodie
