Mississippi Belle

02/17/09

Most Romantic Valentines Day Yet

by linda019670

This place should be voted one of the best restaurants in Minnesota. My first love is seafood and I was not disappointed. My husband and I enjoyed both entrees of Scallops in this 'to die for' sauce as well as the Walleye in a ramesco sauce. We had been going to Minneapolis for years and will now dine at this wonderful place. We had a 7:30 reservation, and although the place was packed for V-day, were seated within five minutes, and had not only great food, but the decor of this place is like a combination of historic and modern, with a twist. It has been kept a secret way too long!! Sorry Hastings, the secret is out. It was romantic, and had live dinner music as well which we ended up staying until well past 10 because we had such a good time. Not only did our waitress not make us feel rushed, she encouraged us to stay as long as we wanted, instead of like previous places that just wanted to get another table seated as soon as we showed signs of being done with dinner. The prices are all under $20 which is very affordable for most everyone, unless you want steak or lobster then it was a bit more. Try it, you will definitely be back!

• Pros: Superb taste, ambiance, service

11/23/08

Mississippi Belle makes positive changes to develop returning clientele.

by venusmodel1965

About a year ago my husband, sister and myself dinned at the Belle. We were disappointed in both food selection and quality. The menu, at that time, was a minimal variety of average tasting Italian cuisine. I had known the Belle from back in the 80's & 90's and explained to both of them how this wasn't my typical experience with the establishment. However, my husband absolutely refused to entertain any idea of a second chance when he could spend less and receive better quality at any number of other "chain" restaurants.

Because we strive to support local small business, I was finally able to convince him to give the Belle another try and we are both so glad we did!

To our delight, the menu had been completely updated. I believe there is something for everyone (except picky children). Seriously, Vegan to Duck Hunter, Cattle Farmer to Seafood lover -- there is something here for you. Even with the updated menu, however, both of us ordered daily specials -- my husband had the Mississippi Grille and I selected the Salmon served over a bed of Gnocchi. Oh my gosh, mouth watering and delightful. We both left completed satiated.

On the notion of service, our server was young and not accustomed to fine wines, or other alcoholic beverages / cocktails. She did not know how to offer a particular wine with a dinner selection, or how to explain the unique qualities of each menu selection. If these things are important to you, you may be disappointed depending on the server you are assigned. To my husband and me, we thought our server was refreshing. At one point, after a special request we made, our server quipped, "I'm glad to do anything you like." To us, this sums up the best possible service experience. We offer accolades to the ownership for hiring the youth of our locality and for making positive changes to develop at returning clientele.

Price? Our tab, including 20% tip, was $90. To us, a reasonable value as this included 3 drinks.

• Pros: Walk in seating, excellent food, generous portions (too full to enjoy dessert !!)
• Cons: Small amount of nearby parking if you dine at peak hours

05/04/08

Much more modern and delicious food

by KarinO33

I had come to the Belle many years ago, then stopped coming about four years ago because the food had gone downhill. It was ghastly, they seemed stuck in the seventies, with overpriced generic red sauces that were very dull. When we found out it had new owners we decided to try it again and it is worth the drive from St Paul. Since my husband and I love wine, finding out they were changing the bar into a wine bar increased its appeal for us. The big change was the food though!. It's sensational. Get this, they even lowered their prices, and have really brightened up the place.

We are going there for Mothers Day and are excited about the all you can eat prime rib. Last weekend it was packed when we were there and the food was exceptional. I hope many others read this and find out just how great this place has become.

• Pros: Much better menu, inventive dishes and lower prices. Better specials.