Meritage

"Meritage is all you could ask of a French brasserie transported to downtown St. Paul. The crescent bar serves oysters and Parisian cocktails (think: an absinthe-soaked sugar cube dropped into a glass of Champagne). But if a full meal is in order, chef Russell Klein’s menu features a daily preparation of Au Bon Canard foie gras, and tray of escargot in an irresistible garlic butter parsley sauce. The Magret duck breast a l’orange is worth the price tag." - Justine Jones, Eater Staff

"Meritage, tucked into an elegant, glass-paned storefront in downtown St. Paul, is one of the Cities’ most romantic dining destinations. More than anywhere else, it successfully emulates a Parisian dining ambiance. Sample oysters at the crescent bar; sip a glass of champagne infused with an absinthe-soaked sugar cube. Chef Russell Klein’s menu, which changes often, always features a seasonal preparation of Au Bon Canard foie gras. The Magret duck breast is worth the $46 price tag." - Eater Staff

"Meritage, just off of St. Paul’s brick-lined Landmark Plaza, has a distinctly Parisian feel, with its crescent oyster bar, bustling brasserie ambiance, and silver cones of pommes frites gracing every table. It’s the ultimate romantic dinner destination, and though chef Russell Klein’s five-course tasting menu ($110 per person; $60 for wine pairings; with foie gras and cheese add-ons) is a pretty flawless option, going a la carte is just as good: Think seared foie gras with blackberries and duck fat granola; escargot in an irresistible garlic butter sauce, made for sopping up with a hunk of baguette." - Eater Staff, Justine Jones

"Meritage, tucked into an elegant, glass-paned storefront in downtown St. Paul, might offer the most Parisian bar experience in the Cities. The crescent bar, typically staffed by a gentleman in a black vest and tie, serves champagne infused with an absinthe-soaked sugar cube, Provençals with elderflower, and a selection of French wines — not to mention oysters and other seafood from the raw bar. There are few better places to splurge." - Justine Jones

"The oysters at St. Paul’s Meritage, a glittering, classic French brasserie, get all the buzz — order a dozen on the half shell, or broiled with tarragon butter and breadcrumbs. But the raw bar offers all kinds of seafood platters, laden with Littleneck clams, tuna tartare, salmon rillettes, and other selections. Other highlights include Crab Louie and whole-roasted Dover sole meunière." - Eater Staff