Boston's new obsession with casual, comfortable venues serving creative, upscale food continues this month with Russell House Tavern, which opened April 8 in the Harvard Square building formerly occupied by Z Square restaurant.
The venue's name is a tribute to the furniture dealer who originally occupied this circa-1820 building, and the renovated space encompasses historic details in six dining and drinking areas.
The main-level Tavern dining room features exposed brick and industrial light fixtures, while vintage cushioned stools fill the bar area. Meanwhile, the lower level has a second supper club-style dining room with a wood slat ceiling, as well as a lounge area and a terrace set off by 12-foot wrought iron gates.
For events, a private dining room seats 40 and can be divided into two smaller spaces. Amenities for meetings-over-meals include free Wi-Fi, audiovisual equipment, and valet parking. Chef Michael Scelfo's menu uses seasonal ingredients in creative takes on classic American dishes, like cast iron seared arctic char with roasted apples and house-made pancetta, along with an all-American wine list, selection of craft beers, and handcrafted cocktails.