The Castle Hills dining community is celebrating a milestone as Clementine marks eight years in operation with a special anniversary lunch on Friday, January 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team John Russ and Elise Russ, the award-winning neighborhood restaurant will commemorate the occasion with a curated prix-fixe lunch menu. The celebratory offering will feature refreshed versions of Clementine favorites alongside new, inventive dishes that reflect the restaurant’s signature Southern-inspired global cuisine.

Since opening its doors in 2018, Clementine has become a cornerstone of the Castle Hills community, earning widespread acclaim for both its food and its hospitality. The restaurant has received multiple honors, including Neighborhood Restaurant of the Year, while John Russ has been recognized as Chef of the Year and named a finalist for the prestigious James Beard Awards.

Clementine was founded with a focus on sustainability, community, and cultural storytelling, drawing from Russ’s Louisiana roots and the couple’s extensive global travels. That philosophy extends beyond the plate. The Russes have built a family-centered workplace culture, offering benefits such as a weekly internal newsletter, two weeks off annually, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance for their team.

In addition to their work at Clementine, John and Elise Russ are active advocates within the hospitality industry, participating in professional organizations including the Texas Restaurant Association and Les Dames d’Escoffier. Their involvement reflects a broader commitment to strengthening and elevating San Antonio’s culinary community.

“Over the past eight years, Clementine has been more than a restaurant,” the Russes said in a joint statement. “It’s been a home for our team, a gathering place for our neighbors, and a canvas for our culinary creativity. We’re grateful to San Antonio for embracing our vision, and we look forward to continuing to celebrate culture, community, and bold flavors for many years to come.”

Clementine invites locals and visitors alike to join the one-day-only anniversary celebration on January 16. Seating is limited, and reservations are strongly recommended. Tables can be reserved through OpenTable.