Juniper Grill

So, the November restaurant was Juniper Grill in Soulard. The host this month, Marty, said he was nervous as to what my review would say. Our reservation was for 6:30 on a Friday night. I arrived about an hour early and sat at the bar. The first thing I noticed was how friendly the bartender was. The bar area was very cozy and small. The bartender poured some pretty nice drinks also. Once our entire party arrived, we were seated in the main dining area. This restaurant is very cozy and intimate. Guys, this is a *great* place for a date dinner. Our waiter was very good. Friendly and efficient. Unlike Balaban's, separate tickets were not an issue and once we were ready for them, they came out quickly. The food was excellent. We started with a small cheese plate, which included about 6-7 different cheeses, olives, and bread. It was very good and very affordable. We also tried the chipotle potato cakes. They were absolutely delicious. Everyone in our group enjoyed their appetizers, and there were many to choose from. The serving sizes were nice too. Good for anywhere from 2-4 people. Next, I had the corn chowder. It almost tasted like it had chipotle in it, but I'm sure it was just the andouille sausage. It also had a hefty portion of cheese in it. It was okay, but not great. I've definitely had better corn chowder. For my entree, I had the salmon. It was delicious. A very generous portion of salmon, enough for me to take home leftovers, covered with a corn salsa, served with roasted veggies and very savory bourbon mashed sweet potatoes. Personally, I noticed that the bourbon mashed sweet potatoes were not offered as a side item. When I go back, I'll be requesting them. The salmon was cooked perfectly, also. Three people from our group of 14 ordered the cabernet filet mignon. Each raved about it. I didn't try it because rare isn't my choice for steak, but it looked delicious. It was a huge portion of filet served with garlic whipped potatoes and grilled asparagus. Each dish was beautifully plated as well. Often, when going to more independent restaurants, I wait to see how the food will be plated. Many times, the food just gets put on the plate with no design put into it. Each dish at Juniper Grill appeared as if the chef took time in preparing each dish specially. I was very impressed. Unfortunately we had to leave a little early this time and skipped out on dessert. It all sounded wonderful though. Overall, this was a great place to eat. Behind Savor, this is my new favorite. If you haven't gotten the opportunity to check it out, please do. It's a great establishment and I don't think you'll be disappointed. I also want to point out that the pricing of this establishment is great. For the food that they are putting out, as well as the service, I would dare say they are a tad bit undercharging what they should be. So Marty, breath a sigh of relief! I loved it!

December's spot is still up in the air, but as soon as it's picked, I'll be sure to let you know. Also, check this post again in a few days. I will have linked to some pictures.