Russ & Mimi’s: Kelly Walsh Brings Gourmet Provisions to Roslindale

Former **Big Heart Hospitality** co-owner **Kelly Walsh** is set to open **Russ & Mimi’s**, a neighborhood market in **Roslindale Village**, this month. Located steps from the commuter rail station, the market aims to be a "bright spot" for residents, offering grab-and-go breakfast and lunch, gourmet provisions, and sparkling wines. Walsh, who previously operated restaurants like **Sweet Cheeks** and **Tiger Mama**, describes this project as her most personal and challenging, emphasizing meticulous detail and a "European feel" for the space. The market will feature items like house-made yogurt, specialty sandwiches including a muffuletta, and coffee from **La Colombe**. The concept evolved from an initial plan for a wine and spirits store to a food-focused market after community feedback highlighted a local need. Consulting chef **Stephen Marcaurelle** has developed a menu featuring items like the "Foxy Loxy" breakfast sandwich on **Exodus Bagels** and roasted cauliflower with tahini. Russ & Mimi’s also plans to offer outdoor seating in a pedestrian-friendly area, fostering a community-centric atmosphere.

• Kelly Walsh, formerly of Big Heart Hospitality, is opening a new neighborhood market called Russ & Mimi's in Roslindale.
• The market aims to provide convenient, high-quality grab-and-go food and gourmet provisions.
• Its location near the Roslindale Village commuter rail station is a key strategic advantage.
• The concept evolved based on community feedback, emphasizing food offerings over an initial wine-focused plan.
• The project is described as highly personal for Walsh, with meticulous attention to detail.

Russ & Mimi’s is opening in **Roslindale Village** this month, a new venture by **Kelly Walsh**, formerly of **Big Heart Hospitality**. The market will offer a range of food and beverage items, from breakfast sandwiches to gourmet retail provisions, with a focus on convenience for commuters and residents. The space is designed to have a "European feel" with outdoor seating, and the menu has been developed with consulting chef **Stephen Marcaurelle**. The project is described as highly personal for Walsh, with significant attention paid to detail in both the offerings and the ambiance.

Russ & Mimi’s represents a welcome addition to Roslindale Village, offering a much-needed blend of convenience and quality. **Kelly Walsh's** proven track record with **Big Heart Hospitality** suggests a high standard for curated products and thoughtful service. Its prime location near the commuter rail station positions it perfectly for busy residents seeking elevated grab-and-go options, potentially boosting local foot traffic and fostering a stronger sense of community around the square. The focus on local sourcing and artisanal products could also elevate the neighborhood's culinary profile.

While the concept of a neighborhood market is appealing, the success of Russ & Mimi’s hinges on its ability to differentiate itself in a potentially competitive market. **Kelly Walsh's** background in larger restaurant groups might not directly translate to the operational demands of a smaller, provision-focused retail space. The "meticulously curated" offerings and gourmet positioning could also lead to higher price points, potentially alienating a segment of the local community. Furthermore, the success of a "bright spot" concept relies heavily on consistent quality and customer engagement, which can be challenging to maintain.

Originally reported by Boston Magazine