Maplewood’s newest restaurant, Robin Restaurant, is set to open on Thursday, March 13. Chef Alec Schingel hosted a media event on Monday, and on Tuesday the Maplewood City Council quickly approved the restaurant’s liquor license.
From a press release: “Following two years of pop-ups and private dinners branded as “The Robin Project,” Chef Alec Schingel is opening his first brick and mortar restaurant this month, Robin Restaurant, located at 7268 Manchester off Historic Route 66.
“Robin Restaurant will focus on serving a small, but elevated Prix Fixe menu sourced from the products of local farmers and purveyors. The cuisine will highlight true sustainability and seasonality, and explore the history and culture of Midwestern Cuisine, resulting in thoughtfully crafted meals that feel indulgent yet approachable. By opening a fine dining establishment that takes care to create a comfortable, welcoming environment, Chef Schingel looks to craft a “fine comfort” experience that is special and perfect for savoring, without any pressure.”
Schingel said he spent a lot of time searching for a space. “I’ve driven around the city and been in the city in quite a few different neighborhoods. We’re really excited to be here. The fact that we’re on Route 66 really ties in with our story about celebrating the Midwest. All that felt very serendipitous,” he said.
He said they were looking for a historic building or a space with some character, and that the previous tenant, Ben Poremba, was interested in shepherding the place on, and was also a big advocate for the landlord, Rob Birenbaum.
“Rob Birenbaum is amazing, and totally been an incredible asset for myself, and everybody I’ve said the name Rob Birenbaum have agreed,” he said.
“Anytime I get into a little bit of a obstacle, being able to reach out to him and say, like, hey, I’m really needing an electrician for something, or hey, do you know anything about this, he’s been there with five different answers and a phone call,” Schingel said. “So I’m hoping to just not let him down, and have a great, busy restaurant,” adding that he’s proud to be in Maplewood.
Robin Restaurant will be open five nights a week, Tuesday through Saturday 5-10pm.
Reservations for the dining room are strongly recommended via Resy, but not required. Go here for reservations. Lounge and bar seats are available on a first come, first serve basis. Follow @robinrestaurant for updates.
See also:
- Sauce Magazine — Robin Restaurant in Maplewood: first look at chef Alec Schingel’s brick-and-mortar
- St. Louis Magazine — Renowned chef Alec Schingel opens Robin Restaurant in Maplewood this week
