After holding their wedding reception in the space (a former restaurant at the time) on May 6, 2007, the couple decided that the space, forever personal to them now, was perfect to create the restaurant Russell had been dreaming about since before he even began culinary school.

Meritage builds on the brasserie feel of the space, and offers the seasonal, French influenced fare that Chef Klein became known for while Executive Chef at WA Frost. “I want to cook food that people understand and that I can be proud to serve,” says Klein. “Meritage offers fine food at moderate prices. We want this restaurant to be welcoming for all people, and all occasions.” It is not a mistake the restaurant is called Meritage- a union of merit and heritage.

Desta Maree Klein provides the warm welcome for guests & the financial management of the enterprise. With over twenty years in the restaurant business herself, she brings unique perspective and core financial management skills. Beyond the numbers, Desta works with Nicolas Giraud, to offer a thoughtful wine list whose focus centers on old-world styled wines and wines from the United States and Europe exclusively. "We want to focus on wines that pair well with the cuisine Russell creates and that reflects our palettes as well".

The couple has been delighted to continue their lives together in the space they first celebrated their marriage. The pair made a conscious decision to open in St Paul, where they began their lives together. “We both moved here from other places and have come to love St Paul. It was important to Desta and I that when we realized our dream of opening a restaurant that it be in St Paul. We really do believe that the future of St Paul is bright,” said Chef Klein.

Our staff are all service professionals. We have won numerous service awards over the years due to their dedication. We pursue employees who look at restaurants as their career, not a passing interest. They are passionate, educated, smart & engaging. We are proud of them and all of the effort they give every day.

Employment:
We are always looking for talented people,
though we are rarely actively hiring.
To see any positions we are seeking to fill, to submit your resume, download an application, or to contact us - click here.