Boston Gourmet Dining
Bravo
Now you can enjoy art and fine food in the newly re-furbished Museum of Fine
Arts restaurant on the second floor of the West Wing. Run by Restaurant
Associates, the space has been completely re-done under the direction of
Peter Niemitz. With bright, bold colors and newly-installed banquettes,
Bravo is an elegant addition to Boston's reputation as a gourmet haven.
Chef Benjamin Cevelo offers a limited menu featuring some tempting artistic
creations. The lobster and sweet corn chowder soup with applewood bacon
was smooth and tasty. If you're a sushi fan, the tuna maki or the tempura
salmon roll is well worth a try. The four cheese mezzalun, with roasted
eggplant, tomato sauce and arugula, as well as the free-range chicken breast
with prosciutto, watermelon and feta cheese, are very satisfying. For desserts,
check out the creme brulee (excellent) or the pistachio and bittersweet
chocolate profiteroles. Cocktails also take on an arty flavor with the
classic martini featuring "Vincent Vodka or Van Gogh Gin." Some large bold
Claudio Bravo (now you know where they got the name) pieces adorn the walls
and the view of the courtyard is enticing. After 5:30, the restaurant will
take care of your parking.
Bravo
465 Huntington Ave., Boston
(617) 369-3474
La Voile
What sets La Voile, a charming brasserie in the tony Back Bay, apart
from the others around town is its genuine connection to France, from
its owners operating an eatery with the same name in Cannes and the
wait staff (most of them) of French nationality. Its
imported decor (1920s zinc bar, red velvet banquettes, nautical
lighting) is quite attractive and with a focus on Mediterranean
cuisine, its moderately priced menu offers all the classics. Vive la France.
La Voile, 261 Newbury St., Boston
617-587-4200
KO Prime
Owner/chef Ken Oringer's take on a traditional steakhouse in
the former Spire's space in the Nine Zero Hotel on
Tremont St. is becoming one of Beacon Hill's hot spots. Like all of his
restaurants, The 72-seat dining room shows off his personal
flair not only with food, but with decor. And along with the steaks,
he'll also offer several seafood dishes as alternatives to the
many beef options available.
KO Prime, Nine Zero Hotel
90 Tremont St, Boston
Teatro
Smack dab in the heart of the Theatre District on Tremont Street is one of
the city's newest eateries.The name comes from the restaurant's proximity
to the Hub's legit theatres and the massive Loews Cinema next door. Chef/owner
Jaime Mammano has come up with a winner, taking over the former Galleria
Italiano space and before that a synagogue, transforming it by exposing
the vaulted ceilings and matching the original gold leaf. The inviting
arched window in the front glows with the hustle and bustle that you sense
as soon as you enter. The bar is hopping and the open kitchen turns out
traditional Italian dishes with a gourmet flair. On busy nights, the noise
level can make conversation a bit difficult, but there's an exciting feel
to being there. It's become one of the Hub's "in" spots, especially when
the theatres are all going full blast. I found the food exceptional and
the prices average, and the bar seems to be a happening place.
Teatro
177 Tremont st., Boston
(617) 778-6841
Excelsior
(submitted by "Gal About Town" Ruth)
Perhaps you think you've experienced wonderful fine dining, but wait till
you savor Lydia Shire's newest gourmet sensation. In the same location as
her former "Biba"s (Boylston St., across from the Public Garden) she has
accomplished an amazing transition, with the help of her partner Tim Lynch
(Grill 23 and Harvest). It's casually elegant, soft-hued atmosphere, from
the modern artwork on the walls to the plush banquettes and panoramic views
of the Public Garden. A cocktail lounge on the first level, you enter the
restaurant via a grand staircase or a modern glass elevator that rises through
a one-of a-kind well-stocked three-story wine cellar (400 varieties,7000
bottles).
Management and staff are there to welcome you. Well dressed and well informed,
the wait staff are so friendly and make you feel right at home in these elegant
surroundings. I've been there several times and have yet to be disappointed.
The menu is varied and creative. Some highlights and recommendations: The
most exciting bread basket in Boston. Ginger lobster tails, sweet and tender.
The lobster pizza, crisp and delicious. Wild king salmon -- extraordinary.
Leave room for dessert; my favorite was the bruleed lemon tart with fresh
strawberries. My oh my! We'll be returning to Excelsior soon and often!
Excelsior
272 Boylston St, Boston
(617) 426-878
Jacob Wirth
This is a landmark Boston eating place (since 1868) and is a nostalgia heaven
for Bostonians. Visitors to our city will enjoy the lively beer-garden
atmosphere and traditional European food in this sprawling old World restaurant
close to Boston's theatre district. With wooden floors, chairs and tables,
this sprawling space is definitely unpretentious. It was taken over about
two years ago by the local Fitz-Inn Parking conglomerate who promptly hired
an excellent chef (Phyllis Kaplowitz) but were smart enough to keep the
traditional ambience that made this so popular with natives. There's still
a vast selection of German goodies (knockwurst, bratwurst, sauerbraten,
warm potato salad, etc.)but now one can try such gourmet delicacies as
duck confit with wild cherries served on cheddar polenta. The German-style
shredded pancakes, topped with chestnut puree and candied chestnuts was
outstanding. The desserts were traditional but with an updated presentation.
I hadn't been back before the staff changes, and plan to return often. With
the plethora of new restaurants in Boston, one forgets the little jewels
that are still around and oh, so good. It's casual and not too expensive.
A couple of perks: one of the best selections of imported beers (many on
tap) and free parking for diners for the first hour is right next door.
Jacob Wirth
31 Stuart St., Boston
(617) 338-8586
Beacon Hill Bistro
Open for a few months, this charming bistro, part of the small Beacon Hill
boutique hotel has in a short time built up quite a following. Formerly
the site of the popular Rebecca's on Charles Street, this charming French
style bistro has transformed the long narrow space into a comfortable dining
spot for lunch or dinner. It features a varied menu to satisfy the most
hearty appetite. Sample fare: rabbit with bacon, lentils and wild mushrooms,
herb-crusted halibut, gray sole stuffed with Maine crab, swordfish with
golden raisins, brouffade-braised beef, the classic steak frites, roast
crisp duckling, and roasted beet salad. Nightly specials are listed on
a chalk board on the wall. Don't pass up the wonderful crème brulee
or the elegant fruit tarts as the dessert cart passes by your table. The
simple but elegant dishes are created with a French flair. The Beacon Hill
folks should be delighted with the newest entry in the neighborhood.
Beacon Hill Bistro
25 Charles St., Boston
(617) 723-1133
Bonfire
Guest reviewer: FTC, Marblehead
Bonfire is an upscale, Vegas-like restaurant within the Park Plaza Hotel.
The decor is Fernando Lamas/Donald Trump with decidedly macho leather and
dim lighting. Bring your reading glasses, a headlamp and a magnifying glass
if you are over 40.The hostess/maitre d' had apparently just transferred
in from the IHOP in Lawrence, Mass: (loud voice, rough around the edges,
and a bad memory... I think she called me "HON.".) I found the
food excellent and plentiful, the tenderloin, large juicy and perfectly grilled.
the Prime Rib, perfectly prepared, large enough for a caveman. The rack of
lamb, pink and perfect. We were served 3 different sauces -- Bearnaise, Horseradish
and a Red wine reduction.- ate them all with everything. We had "community
vegetables" grilled mushroom and onion, and creamed spinach.. . both
excellent. The waiter was excellent and very attentive. THEN WE HAD DESSERT!!!
Key lime tart (clean, limey finish and smooth), chocolate mousse (creamy
and perfect), a monster chocolate Brownie thing (disgustingly popular with
all), and an apple something with Rum Raisin ice cream. Cappuccinos and a
nap were all we needed to finish a great evening! The meal was a bit pricey--
we ordered a lot-- but bottom line, I would go again, order the same thing
and order a bottle of nice red Argentina vino.
Bonfire
Park Plaza Hotel, Boston
(617) 262-3473
Julien is in the Hotel Meridien. Featuring
a French-Mediterranean menu, this restaurant, housed in the former Federal
Reserve Bank Building, has been transformed into one of the city's most elegant,
romantic dining spots. High ceilings, dim lighting, jumbo wing chairs and
superb service; From the moment you arrive, you know you're in for a classy,
albeit expensive evening. It's the perfect place to celebrate that special
occasion.
Julien
250 Franklin St., Boston
(617) 451-1900
Abe and Louie's
The former J.C.Hillary's across from the Prudential Center on Newbury Street
has received a welcome facelift and a new name. With its mahogany paneling
and warm wood finishes, its club-like atmosphere should be a popular meeting
place right in the heart of the Back Bay. You can choose from a wide variety
of steak, seafood and chicken with a fairly extensive wine list. Abe and
Louie's, according to Boston's Man on the Town restaurant maven, Bud Napier,
is a hit! There's a full bar and lounge as well as dining room (seating
130), and Bud reports that the Margaritas are terrific. Open seven days,
serving lunch and dinner as well as Sunday brunch. Congrats to Charlie
Sarkis and his Back Bay Restaurant group. Abe and Louie (kinfolk) would
both be proud of what should become the jewel in their Boston area dining
establishments.
Abe & Louie's
763 Boylston Street, Boston
617 536-6300
Top of the Hub
This 50th floor restaurant has been around for a long time, but has recently
gone through major changes -- all to the better. The view still remains
one of the most spectacular and romantic in the city, but thanks to chef
Dean Moore and his culinary staff, he's matched the breathtaking view with
his new American-style menu. It's sky-high dining with service and gourmet
delicacies to make it a gourmet adventure. It's not just for special occasions
(although the ambience is especially suited for anniversaries, birthdays,
etc.) and where else can you dine and see such sights. Jazz is featured
nightly as well as a late-night menu until 2 a.m. Take the speedy elevator
to the top of the Pru and discover an exhilarating dining experience. The
name hasn't changed, but everything else has! Vive le difference!
Top of the Hub
Prudential Tower, Boston
(617) 536-1775
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar
The newest addition to what is fast transforming the once sleepy Park Square
area into Boston's "restaurant row" is a top-drawer, first class steak
house that give the nearby Capitol Grille, Grille 23, Morton's and Abe
and Louis a run for the money. The newly-renovated Park Square Garage now
houses 3 different eating places. Legal Seafoods moved across the street
to swanky new digs facing the Theatre District and Maggiano's took over
the opposite end of the garage to fill the first floor space offering Italian
style dishes for hearty appetites. Now comes Fleming's, whose club-like
wood paneled atmosphere serves as elegant surroundings for steak, chops
and fish. Already established on the west coast, the group that brought
us the highly successful and popular Chinese emporium, P.F. Chang's (across
the street in the Transportation building) is now girding to make its mark
on the East Coast with the Hub its first stop. Everything is a la carte,
therefore the overall tab can get up there fast. But it's elegant dining
and servers are well trained to make the experience pleasurable. Try the
sautéed mushrooms with full garlic cloves as a side dish --.exceptional.
Steaks are flavored superbly and cooked according to your taste. Fresh
swordfish was another worthwhile choice, sweet and tender. The portions
are ample, particularly potatoes, prepared seven different ways. There's
an extensive wine list --100 offered by the glass. Fleming's is certainly
a welcome addition to the Hub's burgeoning dining scene.
Fleming's
217 Stuart St., Boston
(617) 292-0808
Radius: Tucked away on the fringe
of the financial district on High Street (formerly Schroeder's) is one of
the Hub's newest gourmet eateries. With very subtle signage, it's not too
easy to find (look for the bright red panels outside), and parking is practically
non-existent. But there is valet service, so don't let that deter you --
you won't be disappointed. The huge space has been completely transformed
into New York chic. The crowded bar seems to be the trendy meeting place
for the singles crowd, and the spacious dining room is cool, comfortable
and inviting. Chef Michael Schlow, after working in the close quarters of
Cafe Louis, has been able to really "spread out" to create a menu
and extensive wine list to entice the palate. A combination of Continental
and American dishes includes Maine crab and cucumber tarts, pepper-crusted
sirloin, and roasted black grouper. Portions are not huge and the prices
are right up there, but if you're looking for a cosmopolitan setting and
inventive dishes, you'll find them here. It's currently "the place to
see and be seen," and the ambience and chic clientele combine to make
it the closest you'll come to Manhattan without leaving the city.
Radius
8 High Street, Boston
(617) 426-1234
No. 9 Park: It's hard to keep up with
all the new restaurants in the Boston area; they seem to be opening one a
week. We did get a chance to sample 9 Park last week, and it took a while
to get things together, but you'll find the wait worthwhile. Open only a
month, 9 Park is diagonally opposite the State House and is the creation
of Master chef Barbara Lynch, formerly of Galleria Italiano. She has worked
hard to create distinctive dishes that display her creative culinary talent.
The intimate space offers two distinctly different dining areas, the one
overlooking Boston Common is bright and airy, the other in the rear has a
New York feel to it, cozy and quiet and rather elegant. Separating the two
dining rooms is a well-stocked bar and tables for more relaxing dining. When
I first tasted her crisp roasted duck at her former venue, I thought it was
the best ever. It still is. We started our feast with seared diver's scallop
on a bed of grilled corn, potato cake, and truffle essence. The grilled veal
chop with parsnip and potato souffle in red wine sauce was also flavorful
and delicious. For dessert, I chose the semi-frozen sorbet, which satisfied
me completely. The service and attention to detail is first rate. The menu
is limited, and I would venture to say that loving care is extended to all
the choices, fish, steak, or chicken. The wine list is extensive (over 100
listed). Certain items seemed a bit pricey, but I guess you get what you
pay for, and what you get at 9 Park is exceptional. They are now open for
lunch as well as dinner. And thank goodness, they offer valet parking. Otherwise,
it would be a disaster. Chalk up another winner in Boston's burgeoning restaurant
scene.
No. 9 Park
9 Park St., Boston
(617)742 -9991
Les Zygomates
This is as close to dining on the left bank as it gets. Now into its fifth
year, and practically doubled in size with its recent next door expansion,
this French-style bistro is at the right place at the right time. Smack
in the middle of the burgeoning leather district on South Street, this
one-time desolate area has now become a bustling neighborhood community.
It's filled with growing a business and resident population who have one
of the city's choice gourmet establishments right in their midst -- and
at prices that won't stretch the budget. Zygomates is a sleeper. Just like
its title, it'll put a smile on your face. Ian Just, its accomplished chef,
is an experienced gustatory artist creating unusual and tasty dishes with
a true French panache. On a recent visit we dined on rabbit stuffed with
vegetables over couscous and mustard greens, and a perfectly grilled red
snapper with an unusual taro rootmash and ginger sauce was melt-in-your-mouth
delicious. For dessert, we savored a crème brûlée that
was "magnifique." Their wine list is extensive. (Where in the
city can your order over 30 wines by the glass from a choice wine list?)
Their Tuesday night wine tastings, with 2 seatings at 6 & 8 p.m., have
become a wine lover's paradise. And filling an obvious void in dining experiences,
there's music every night . . . jazz, Latin and blues with no additional
cover charge. Put off that trip to Paree. Just head for South Street and
you're there!
Open Monday - Saturday until 1 a.m., for lunch, dinner and late-night desserts.
Les Zygomates
129 South Street, Boston
(617) 542-5108
Brasserie
JO
The Colonnade Hotel is finally back in serious competition again
with this welcome addition to authentic French cuisine in Boston. Internationally-renowned
chef Jen Joho, who runs the five-star "Everest" in Chicago as well
as the first Brasserie Jo, has not missed a beat in offering authentic French
dishes coupled with a decor that evokes the Paris of the 40's. The room (formerly
the Promenade) is on the first floor of the hotel with its own entrance and
separate valet parking. They've spared no expense in redesigning the room
and the food, and the prices are reasonable -- you won't have to take out
a second mortgage to savor authentic French food. You can sample a mega-variety
of martinis (the Martini Jo -- Stoli, Lillet rouge and orange zest -- is
my favorite). Recommended dishes include: the Plateau de Fruit de Mer (shrimp,
stone crabs, three kinds of oysters, clams and escargot - $36 for two), the
smoked salmon with creamed horseradish sauce, Duck a L'orange, and two of
their specialty dishes, the "shrimp bag" and the hangar steak.
The profiteroles, with the warm chocolate sauce poured at the table, is another
nice touch. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner until 11 p.m. Late-night
revelers can also order from a limited menu at the bar until closing.
Brasserie JO
120 Huntington Avenue, Boston
(617) 425-3249
Capital Grille
The Providence-based restaurant chain has succeeded in overcoming
terrible traffic jams at its upper Newbury St. location - the well-prepared
food is obviously worth the hassle of getting there. Now that steakhouses
are back in vogue, they've branched out to the western suburbs of Chestnut
Hill. Valet parking is available at both locations.
Capital Grille, 359 Newbury St. Boston, 617-262-8900
Capital Grille, 250 Boylston St. Chestnut Hill, 617-928-1400
Clio
If you remember hanging out at everyone's favorite "Boston
Marathon" hangout for umpteen years, forget it. The former Elliot Lounge
at the corner of Mass. and Commonwealth Avenues has had a major transformation.
The decor, the ambience, and the food are definitely upscale and it's become
one of the many newer " in spots" that seem to be sprouting up
all over the city. This one has the feel of a Parisian supper club and thanks
to designer Peter Neimitz, the small dining room (seats 48) reeks of European
chic. Ken Oringer, the former chef of Tosca on the South Shore, has created
a sophisticated menu that fits well into the intimate decor. I'd recommend
the tasting menu ($45) which will give you a chance to sample the first courses
and entrees. On a recent visit our group had a chance to taste a wide variety
of selections, from puree of pea soup and seared dayboat scallops to organic
chicken and Maine lobster with gnocchi. Presentation and service are first-rate.
If you're a big spender, it's great for a special celebration. It's also
fast becoming the place for businessmen to meet for "power breakfasts." Open
for breakfast and dinner 7 days a week.
Clio
370A Commonwealth Avenue, Boston
(617) 536-7200
Locke-Ober
The Grande Dame of Boston dining has been duly cleaned and polished under
the personal guidance of popular Boston restaurateur Lydia Shire, who understands
the historic significance of this traditional Boston hangout for business
types and politicos. It's still the same old Locke's, with mahogany walls,
the silver domes on the bar, and of course the famous picture on the wall.
I'm pleased to report that the menu still carries some of the old favorites,
including lobster stew, calves liver with bacon -- even baked Alaska for
dessert. And Shire has thankfully added a few of her personal choices to
the lengthy and varied menu. Even some of the old waiters are back. The "we'll
take good care of you" service is the same, with much attention to
detail and friendly, but not overly so. The lobster stew (still listed
on the menu as JFK's favorite) is rich with chunks of succulent lobster
meat. I preferred the much lighter lobster bisque, brimming with flavor.
New to the menu is crisped skate wing with capers fanned out on the plate
-- pretty as a picture. With Shire in the kitchen along with gourmet French
chef Jacky Robert, you can be sure the varied choices will carry on with
the tradition, but with a distinctly modern flair. Case in point, the tasty
frisee with bacon and Oeuf Merette salad -- different and delightful. In
keeping with mixing the old with the new, we savored the warm Indian pudding
with vanilla ice cream (which we loved from the old days) and got our chocolate
fix with the dark bittersweet chocolate tart with sugared orange slices.
Locke-Ober's in good hands, folks, and if you've missed the trek down the
alley at quaint Winter Place, they're waiting for you to come back home
again. Lunch and dinner (valet parking dinner only). Closed Sundays. Closest
parking is the Swiss Hotel or the new Ritz garage on Avery St.
Locke-Ober Restaurant
Winter Place, Boston
(617) 542-1340
Mistral
Every city has a dining spot that becomes "the in place." Mistral
seems to have captured the golden ring in this regard, and they're reluctant
to relinquish the title. There's a style and energy to the place that caters
to those who long for more than good-tasting food and a well-prepared and
presented menu. Nurtured by Chef Jaime Mammano, it's the place to see and
be seen these days. The bar at the front entrance is hopping and the decor
in the restaurant is one of the Hub's most elegant. It's a true dining experience.
My only caveat - call early for reservations. They fill up fast, especially
on weekends.
Mistral
221 Columbus Ave, Boston
(617) 867-9300
Plaza 111, The Kansas City Steakhouse
Hoping to make its mark on the East Coast, this newest eatery in the Faneuil
Hall Marketplace area (formerly Crickets) will offer USDA Prime Grade meats
as well as seafood at its only location outside of Kansas City. Dubbed
one of the "Top Ten Steakhouses in America" by the famed Zagat
Survey, it will be a welcome addition to the restaurants in the popular
Faneuil Hall area. Open seven days a week from 11a.m.-2a.m. Food service
available until midnight.
Plaza 111
Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston
(617) 720-5570
