Mini Revue - Bricco

BRICCO
241 Hanover St
Boston, MA
www.bricco.com
a DePasquale Venture

A Mini Revue, 'buds.

...Mini, mostly because we can only remember this much of the evening:

Bricco, you make a fantastic Espresso Martini.  Fantastic and dangerous. Can I say that?  It's a compliment.

Bricco, you allow us to stumble in after midnight and order off your full menu. For that, and for your Eggplant Involtini, we are forever grateful.  Grateful and ravenous.  We'll be in soon for more.

And finally to our readers, no Involtini is not a made up, pretentious word.  Check it out here.

Ciao, Forks!

Bite Size Revue - LOLITA

LOLITA

271 Dartmouth Street
Boston, MA
http://www.lolitatequilabars.com/

Dear Lolita,

Thank you for your late night snacks, such as your guacamole, nachos and Green Apple Cotton Candy covered in Pop Rocks.

We're obsessed with you.  Don't be scared.

Love,

Boston Revue

PS - We also really like the dark-enough-for-a-vampire vibe.  K, gotta go buy some more Pop Rocks because we're addicted now.

FIGures...

FIGS
42 Charles St
Boston, MA
http://cheftoddenglish.com/restaurants.html


Hey Forks.  How's the summer going?  Hot?  Sweaty?  Hungry?  All of the above for us.  Especially last Sunday when we traipsed through the heat of Park St through the Common, heading towards 42 Charles St.

What a great Street, 'buds.  Quaint store fronts, historical brick, people-watching galore.  And food.  Lots of food.  Figs is right at the heart of the all the sophistication with it's tiny store front and minimalistic space.

This past Sunday we were lucky to get seated right away.  They couldn't seat more than, oh 25 people inside?  My math could be wrong.  I'm about food, not numbers.  And when we sat down, did we just pour sweat.  Luckily the water and the Sangria were there in abundance to keep it cool.

We could have ordered salads, appetizers, specials.  But we really just wanted to dig in on the pizza, their specialty.  The no-brainer here was to order one pie of half orders, settling on the Portobello and the Veal Meatball and Spicy Tomato.  (I hear spicy food's really good in the 100* heat.  Haven't you?)

The pizza arrives with a stand and a cookie sheet.  (It reminded me of my mom's homemade pizza that she used to back in her largest cookie sheet when I was a kid.)  And the slices were HUGE.  Four people could order 1 $20 pizza and walk out of this place with their pants unbottoned.

The Portobello pizza was covered in truffle oil, red onion and large slices of mushrooms.  The cheese was insane. The smell was insane.  You may have seen my tweet that day suggesting it would be beneficial to all if I could create a Scratch n Sniff tweet.  If you don't like truffle, you're just...I don't know.  Stop reading now.

As for the Veal Meatball pizza...ever see Capers on a pizza?  Me either.  Do you even like Capers?  Me either.  You'll like this pizza, though.  A LOT.  Holy crap.  Order it now.  Go to Figs, stand outside and wait if they're not open yet.  Don't waste time.

Pizza in the summer may seem like a waste, living in a seafood-tastic city such as Boston.  But I have to say, there is never a wrong season to consume one of the most popular foods of all time.  The Black-Eyed Peas should write a song about pizza.  They could sell that stuffing out of that record.

Ok Forks, good to be back showering you with my self-indulgent, all-too opinionated, self-righteous thoughts on local foods.  Stay tuned for more revues soon!

Final Thought on Figs: We give it 4 slices (Because we're full.  Otherwise, the whole pie.)

There's an App for that!

Usually the apps we discuss are are if the edible variety. But Blogger us on iPhone. We can post all the time now, 'buds!!!

Piccola Venezia - Revisited

Don't be silly and jump right into Part 2 without checking out Part 1, 'buds.  Click on that little link and get yourself up to snuff.  Keep reading below to get see our X-press revue of PV - Part 2.

Done?  Va Bene.  And after about 2 hours eating Italian style w/ 8 other girls, we were finally done, too.  Many bottles of wine, many appetizers and entrees later, of course.

Once again, at PV, the staff was really accommodating and friendly, even when we sent back a bad bottle of wine.  And once again, we found the clientele to be diverse and very family oriented.  Babies, young adults, dates, girls nights, etc.

The hot items this time around were the Atlantic Salamon with Spinach Risotto and the Sauteed Mushrooms.  These got the biggest raves from our group.  This blogger could NOT get enough of the mushrooms.  Just amazing.

The Veal Vittorio was very lemony (good) and cut very thick (not so good).  The Baccala Bianco was amazing and something new for our 'buds: Salted codfish.  Very good served with veggies and roasted potatoes.  We love trying new (to us) things.

Don't bother eating the side dish of pasta in marinara, if your meal comes with it.  Nothing tastes as good as the one your mom or grandmother makes. 

The atmosphere is very inviting to boisterous groups and people looking for an at-home feel.  The food is good, but not the best in the North End.  And again, the service was really attentive.

We've got some more revues coming your way, so stay tuned, Forks!!!  Ciao!

Seven Things We Like About The Sevens

The Sevens
77 Charles Street
Boston, MA 02114
Beer & Wine ONLY
$$

Walking along Charles Street during the holiday season would make even the scroogiest Scrooge feel like shouting out a verse of Joy to the World at the top of his lungs.  Garland and holly, berries and lanterns.  If it could have snowed, our hearts may have melted just a little.

As we passed J. McLaughlin, Figs and a hundred Volvos, we dreamed of our future homes up on Chestnut or Mt. Vernon, living the life.  And then, through the fog of yuppieness shone a bright light over 77 Charles Street.  The Sevens.  A diamond in the rough....or the rough in the diamond?  I don't know.  But here are 7 things we love about this dark, narrow pub, that does not serve french fries.

1. Seat yourself wonderfulness.  Yup.  Like it.  Want to sit next to the juke box?  Fine!  In the back by the dart board?  Ok!  At the bar?  You sure can!  No one's the boss of YOU, my friend. 

2. Beer, Beer and more Beer...and wine.  Beer and Wine only.  We're not afraid of that.  I'll have a Magic Hat #9 or 3 Magners on ice.  No problem.

3. Vincent Schiavelli works there!  And let me tell you, he's looking better than ever.  And friendly as all get out.

4. Pickles!  Nice watery and subtle pickles.  They come on the side of every sandwich, including...

5. The Peanut butter & Jelly!  Go 'head, Sevens!  Rock that old school sammich. 

6. Baked Beans.  Very Bostonian.  Very delicious.

7. People are friendly and diverse.  Pop over in your J. Crew trench or stumble in after a long hard day digging up the streets of Boston.  And if there are only 2 people sitting a 4 top, you might be asked to share!  Making friends, eatin' sandwiches, drinking beer.  Love it.

Try the Reuben or the Turkey Wrap with Havarti Cheese & Cranberry Mayo.  You couldn't make these that good in your own home.  I hear you get a discount if show up w/ seven friends, too.  Ya.  Say that to your waiter.  See what happens.

Fall Classics and Fun Specials @ Amrheins

Amrheins
since 1890
80 W Broadway
S. Boston MA
http://amrheinsboston.com/
$$
617-268-6189 - Free Shuttle service
Parking lot also available

Of our many trips to Amrheins, we've never encountered bad service.  Last weekend was no exception.  Top notch waitstaff and hosting really sets the mood when you come eat at a location rich with history.

We knew that this time of year would mean that Amrheins would have their Butternut Squash Ravis w/ chicken in a cream sauce.  And they did!  Oh man.  It is so fantasticamazing.  The best cooked chicken we've ever encountered.  But instead of ordering this, we got the Autumnal Arancini.  This was filled with rice, cranberry and cashews, seasoned to perfection and covered in the same cream sauce as the Ravis.

I died a little eating this.

Keeping with the fall favorites, the Meatloaf was also ordered.  Loved by one, not loved by the other.  The gravy was the down fall and the rave.  So go and make your own decision.

If you want dessert, the only option should be the Strawberry Shortcake. That's what we think. In our eyes, it's the only dessert that exists on the menu. That is all they need.


And while we're going to end with the appetizer, you might want to start with it.  Our favorite app is the Lobster and Crab cake, served over dressed greens with a large sea scallop on top.  Delicious.  No crazy extra fillings, light on the mayo, heavy on the perfect seasoning.  I love this appetizer.
 
If you're not into chowing down, go get some beers, served on the oldest hand carved bar in the city, poured out of one of the original taps.  A history lesson and a buzz!  Nice!

Owl Station

Owl Station Bar & Bistro

28 W Broadway
Boston, MA 02127
617-269-1611
takes reservations
$$
http://www.owlstationbar.com/
http://www.owlstationbar.com/menu.html

So a while back we hit up Owl Station, just steps away from the Broadway T Stop in Southie.  At the time of our visit, OS was brand-spanking new.  At our 6pm arrival, we got our choice of seats.  And it seemed our reservation was unnecessary.  But hey, it's always good to be prepared, Forks.

We grabbed the high top tables along the open window so we could people-watch.  But not before we inspected the joint.  The bar was long with an open floor plan.  When you turn the corner, you stumble onto a cozy area of couches and pillows and low tables.  Dancing and drinking area for late-nighters, no doubt.  Potty?  In the basement.  Very Fanieul Hall.

Service was excellent, as it wasn't too busy.  But with a group of 6 rowdy woman who spill drinks and order almost the entire menu, trust me, we put our waitress to the test.  She was fantastic and knew her menu inside and out. 

It would probably be easier to tell you what we didn't order.  But let's just go with some highlights of the night.  Apps? We had 'em all but the Oyster.  And right away, let me guide you: Do not order the Soft Shell Crab.  Stinky and bad-taste city.  Man.  I can still taste it.  Instead order the Tako Yaki or the Quail.  Both fantastic.  You can then tell your friends you ate both octopus and quail and look like a stud.  Or a sicko. 

Not a fan of adventurous cuisine?  Have the Truffled Sweet Potato Fries and Sliders.  Really good stuff and you won't feel left out when everyone else is mowing down on their Asian fare.

Looking for a fun drink?  Order a carafe of Soju.  There are many flavors, but let us suggest the Lychee.  Why?  Please.  Because it's unusual, interesting and tastes pretty damn good.  Plus, it's fun to be served a huge carafe and many shot glasses.  But just sip, ok?  Dont' be foolish to just shoot it all back.  Share, enjoy, refresh.

If you want a simple snack with your Kirins and Sojus, just have the nice and salted Edamame.  A classic go-to.  We also recommend the Shumai.  Delicious.

So overall, those eaters who are fans Asian and adventurous nosh are going to enjoy Owl Station.  Or you might glance around and think to yourself, "The Franklin is just around the corner...so is Amrhein's.".  It's a 50/50 place.  You'll either give a hoot or you won't.

But hey, don't leave with out trying dessert.  You want Mochi ice cream.  Don't ask any questions.  Just order it.

Tweedley Dee! We Twittered! We're scared.

Ok Forks!  We joined Twitter.  Thanks to you-know-who, who suggested!  Spread the word, find us, etc.  Look for BostonRevue and you'll find us! 

Where did the summer go? Besides to our hips?

Most people do the pre-summer work outs to get trim and svelte.  We prefer the post summer trim down.  Summer is the greatest season to splurge.

Sure, sure, sure.  Fall comes around and you OD on apples pies and Turkey dinners.  Winter comes and you're inhaling meatloaves and stews on the weekly.  But...aren't you going to miss summer?

Those days sitting outside having mussels and oysters in the sun?  Nighttime drinks on the patio of a great bar?  Outdoor view of the city as you eat a nice salad covered in fruit?  Fenway Franks and the Sausage guy!  Aren't you dreading the end?

Of course, once Fall is here, truly here, we'll be on the bandwagon.  We'll enjoy the nice, crisp days of walking through the Public Gardens or trips to the Big Apple in Franklin.  Ciders and plain donuts, the return of corduroy jackets and boots....On second thought, maybe this doesn't sound so bad. 

...But it still doesn't erase the fact that we wore flip flops on a day like today.

What are you looking to enjoy this Fall?  And what are you mourning with the end of summer?

Old Boston @ the new Brahmin

The Brahmin
33 Stanhope
Boston, MA
www.thebrahmin.com

An initelligent and cultered friend had an insightful question.  Would The Brahmin be Old Boston?  Old money, aristocratic?  An equally intelligent blogger replied that it just might even be very Old Hahhvad, Old Cambridge.

Well, we (I mean they) were both right.  The Brahmin is bringing some old school Boston Brahmin cultaaah back to Beantown.  And no, you don't have to be a decsendent of the Cabots or the Peabodys to get served a drink.  Just be friendly with the chatty waistaff and don't fall asleep in their cozy leather furniture.  (It's frowned upon.  Just trust me.)

The drinks you want to try?  Their famous Side Car and the Sex in the City.  Yup.  Both.  The place you want to set up camp?  One of the cozy corners with the leather couches and chairs.  By the window.  You could sit outside on the patio, which is normally the best.  But the view outside Stanhope isn't the greatest.  The view inside is much better.

Be sure to be careful walking down the wacky staircase.  No, you haven't had too many Older Sisters, it's built that way.  Describe it?  No. Go walk down it.

Go, have fun, get your picture taken and don't fall asleep.  Just avoid it at all costs.  Mr. Manager doesn't like it.  Then go home and count your gold peices.

And hey friends!  If you're wondering who that super intelligent person is, I'll let you decide.  She's one of the lovely gals featured in this article.  <---Click Me.

Gaslight Update! Merci Beaucoup!

Ok, so some of you might know our previous post from 5 minutes ago about our experience du Gaslight.

No sooner did we post of post, did the General Manger contact us.  To you, sir, merci.  Thank you for your kind attention (gentil, n'est pas?) and professionalisim. This was our first ever official complaint (seriously. first ever in life.) and our first ever reconciliation.  We will definitely return to your establishment.

Friends and readers alike, 'buds and forks of all kinds.  Let us all bow our heads and forgive.  And forget.  And learn the difference between Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris.

Au revoir mon amis.  J'taime!

J'adore Gaslight, mais oui!

Gaslight Brasserie du Coin
560 Harrison Ave
Boston 02118
617 422-0224
www.gaslight560.com


Ever have a cheese terrine?  Le terrine du fromage?  Oui?  Non?  Sound like poo-poo?  Mais, no.  C'est bon.  Especially because I know what a terrine is.

Gaslight is a great little place on, what I call, the ouskirts of the South End.  They have a parking lot, huge indoor dining room and an our door patio.  If they were in the heart of the South End, there'd be no space for this.  But they make it work over on Harrison Ave.

They make the food work, too.  And to answer for you, yes.  You do want the the Summer Vegetable & Goat Cheese Terrine.  All a terrine means it that the cheese is molded around the veggies and then sliced.  It's great.  Spread it on bread or the lemony crostinis they provide.  Ooo la la.  Magnifique.

You may want to try a light pasta dish for your entree.  The Ricotta and Sweet Corn Raviolis were really good.  I wish the pasta had a little more cheese inside, but the flavors were all there. 

And let me tell you, the know how to cook a Trout at Gaslight.  Their Restaurant Week menu provided a Trout Almondine, which was nice and flaky.  Crispy skin on.  Zootaleur! 

One thing to be weary of...the snotty little bartender at the chic bar.  She'll mishear your order and charge you for a $12 glass of wine when your ordered the $6.  And then when you try to nicely expose the error on the bill, you'll get a lesson on the wine she DID serve you and a promise that she'll listen harder next time.  Don't forget the wish for an "excellent evening".  We will return to Gaslight, but they have a pissy little letter coming their way.

That's all we can really say on this revue right now, because we're reliving the entire altercation at the bar.  Gadzooks.  Je suis enraged.

Furthermore, I'm try to persuade my date from this lovely outing to give us her own revue, as a guest blogging entry.  Stay tuned, 'buds.  This ain't the end of this one!

Another Chain Steakhouse...That writes their name on their silverware

Smith & Wollensky
101 Arlington Street (in the Castle)
Boston, MA 02116
617-423-1112
http://www.smithandwollensky.com/sw-boston
Boston's Menu - Click here

Who wants a $47 Prime Rib that is actually worth it? We do, we do!  What about $33 Seared Scallops?  OK!  Now who needs to take a second mortgage out on their home?  Well, if we had one, We Would!

Remeber that time we went to Fleming's?  We weren't a fan.  Remember all our inquires as to what makes a steakhouse worth it?  Smith & Wollensky's is worth it, 'buds.  You're gonna be poor, but your belly will be full and your mouth will be happy.  What's a life if you don't overindulge every once in a while?

Trust me, your baby doesn't need diapers and you don't need to go shopping on tax free weekend.  You need to save those pennies and head to the Castle for some fancy service, a bottle wine, good friends and good food. 

Ok, now that we've made the same points in three different paragraphs, let's get into the "whys".  Here we go.  It's accessible to everyone.You live in the 'burb's?  No worries.  SW will valet for you.  $16.  Most lots will run you $20+, so there's a bonus right there.  So no excuses, non-city-dwellers.  You can make it happen.

You don't think you can afford for one person to order that Prime Rib?  You and your date can share it.  Who cares what the servers think?  It's big enough for 3 people to share, for that matter.  So don't let that stop you!  Sides?  Sure, they're a la carte.  So if you're going to pick any, we suggest the Mashed Potatoes.  Not a total shock, to you loyal readers, I'm sure.  They're amazing.  And they're magical for curing the next morning's hangover.  (And you will have one, because you will order a bottle a wine.  It's nonsensical to order per glass.)

If you're not a Prime-Ribber, you're most likely a Filet-er.  The fun part of ordering this (yes, ordering is fun) is that SW offers you 6 ways to have your Filet.  Gorgonzola and Au Poivre are just a couple of nice options.  But you may want to stick to Charbroiled.  Nice and simple. 

Maybe you're going with someone who doesn't want to order steak at the big, fancy steakhouse.  You don't have to; it's a diner's world.  Do you.  The Scallops are really nice.  The fresh veggie salad and gazpacho are nice along side it.  Ooo, and try the bread.  You cut it with a spoon.  Yes, a spoon.  The same spoon that has Smith & Wollensky written on it.  It's their spoon!  Don't steal it. 

Your waiter may be chatty and overly attentive.  That's ok.  The truth is, he knows everything and will take good care of you.  So let it slide if he's over.at.your table. every. five.seconds.

PS - You don't have to be at the Ritz circa 1923 to order the Side Car.  Have one after dinner. Good stuff. 

Enjoy, 'buds!

Another Restaurant week outing: Sorellina

Ever been to Mistral?  If you like it, you should check out the sister restaurant: Sorellina.

Sorellina
1 Huntington Ave
Boston, Ma
www.sorellinaboston.com

 

Our table

 Mini revue for you on Sorellina.  Here's a list of what we liked:

*The White Peach Bellini
*The bottle of Malbec we orderd for the table
*The plates

*The Polpette app on the RW menu
 *The Zuppa!  Delish.








Things that make you go hmmmmm....

*Waitstaff chringing when a steak was ordered well done.  Ok, we know a chef is going to curse us if we order that way, but keep your opnions to yourself.  And so what if someone inquires about steak sauce?  Is it that offensive to just ask?  My personal insight, as a former server.

*The crumbsweeper.  Fine, clear our plates.  But it's weird when you're trying to have a conversation and someone's arm is popping in and out of your line of vision to sweep crumbs away.  We're ok with the crumbs for now.  Take care of it when we leave.  Not after appetizers.

*Napkin folding when a guest leaves their seat.  Felt like we were at a wedding.

*Other clientele.  Manuevering around the restaurant and the entrace/lobby was extremely hard when people do not respond and/or move to a polite (and then aggitated) "excuse me". 

*Risotto - one good order, one soupy order of the same meal.  Flavors all there.  But one had a soupish quality.


And end.

More reasons to love 224

More love for 224.  I can't help it.  It's too good.  And hey, everyone's got to have their neighborhood favorite.  If you don't have one, you can share mine.

Why do we love you even more, 224?  Because.  It is Restaurant week, yet again, in Boston.  And guess what?  At 224 you can mix and match your menus.  No penalties.  No "fiiiiiiiiiiiiiiine" and deep sighs from the waitstaff.  They suggest it!  So you may want to order the delicious Three Cheese Eggplant Rollup appetizer off the RW menu, whiling opting for the classic Meatloaf entree from the daily menu.  The sky's the limit.

Another thankful feature: they do not mind if you would like to order a meal "without".  If you don't want olives on your hummus platter, no problem!  If you don't want the red pepper relish on your Fig and Goat cheese pizza, that's fine.  The accommodations are much appreciated.

And you know I'm going to praise their drink menu yet again.  This time I'll suggest to you the Drag Queen Mai Tai.  Ask for it in a pint glass with extra ice.  Heavenly.

Let me finally add, sitting outside for the first time was fantastic.  Bright, colorful, cushy pillows and blankets?  Yes please. 

Don't worry, 'buds.  We've been trying other restaurants.  Stay tuned for a mini revue of Sorellina and a big fatty revue of Gaslight!

What have you been eating?

Hey 'buds!  How are we enjoying the summer?  As you see, we've been on hiatus.  Travel, vacation, cookouts, etc.  The typical New England things crammed into 2 1/2 months of sun.

Recent dining experiences for us: Owl Station and Sorellina ( http://www.sorellinaboston.com/home.html ).  A fun little outing was had at the Brahmin on Stanhope (the former 33).  Lots to share with you Forks.

To stay tuned for: More 224, Gaslight and Smith & Wollensky.  Maybe even some fun posts about Sangria...you'll have to see!

So where have you been dining?  Tell us!  And check back for new blogs!

UPDATE - You cannot forget the Cornbread!

'Buds!  Please accept our deepest apologies.  Did you notice something was missing from the Border Cafe revue?

Refresh your buds here

Thankfully I was reminded my reader/co-diner, Iesha, that I failed to mention Border Cafe's kick ass Corn Bread..  Neither of us have ever had a peice of corn bread quite so awesome. 

The outside is almost crispy and the inside is soft and spongey.  There a sticky consistancy that is similar to sponge cake.  It's so, so good and hardly crumbles into a mess at all.  That is a huge plus.  Most corn breads are so crummy!

Most dishes come with a side of the corn bread, but you may want to ask for an extra.  I did and I would do it again.  Don't dare me.

Stephi's on Tremont - "That's apostrophe "s". That shit is possesive!"

Stephi's on Tremont
http://stephisontremont.com/#13104858510131&true
Uh...Tremont Street.  #571 to be precise.
South End - Boston

Well, you may be familiar with Stephanie's on Newbury but have you walked the few blocks over to the South End yet?  Stephanie Sokolove, the queen of patio dining (and, Yes, of those Sokoloves.) has another hit on her hands over on Tremont Street.

I went.  You should, too.  Why?  Well, I'll tell you why.  It's really good.  Ok, blog over.

Alright, that doesn't seem very fair.  How about this?  Check out the menu.  Then you'll want to go.

http://stephisontremont.com/menu-winelist.htm#13104852091691&true

But even better still, I'll tell you what me and my pal JT had.

Let us suggest to you the Ricotta Gnocchi appetizer.  ($$$)  This is not your typical gnocchi in a creme or marinara sauce.  This appetizer is filled with sauteed leeks, onions, lemons in a light tomato broth.  You might find some picked mushrooms strewn about, as well.  Very funky, no?  Very good, yes.

As you'll see, there are many other fun dishes on the menu.  I am dying to go back and try the Salty Pretzel Crab Cake.  Now that sounds intesting.  Have you had it?  If so, let us know what you thought.

For dinner JT and I got the Braised Veal and the Roasted Pork.  The Veal was very good with a delicious sauce of tomatos, gorgonzola and balsamic.  Served with Tagliatelle, too.  One of my favorite style pastas.  Especially when it's served with warm, comforty food.  And it stands up really well to veals and braised short ribs and other meats of these natures.

The Pork dish was also really comforting, served with polenta and asparagus and dried fruit compote. 

Comfort food with flair is what Stephi is known for if you read up on her and her venues.  I think Stephi's on Tremont displays that very well.  I would definitely go back and sit outside on the patio, to enjoy the people watching while we dine.

And remember, forks: Hungry? Let Boston Revue find food for YOU. Call now for a toll free Foodsultation. If we don't get you the food you deserve, your Foodsultation is free. 1-800-BOSTONEATS.

Crossing the Border for the 1st time...

Border Cafe
www.bordercafe.com

Massachusetts Locations
Cambridge: 32 Church Street
Saugus: 356 Broadway (This is the location I visited)
Burlington: 128 Middlesex Turnpike

(There are locations in New Jersey and Delaware, too.  But you look those up on your own.)




Saugus Location



Hey 'buds!  Like most Bostonians who travel North over 4th of July weekend, we hit the bright (and sometimes tacky) lights of Route 1 North to begin our vacation last Friday.  The intention was to hit a place for dinner right in the heart of the it.  Border Cafe was the unanimous choice.

Now, it's true that Border is a chain, with locations stretching from the original in Cambridge, all the way to New Jersey ("Yeaaaah, buddy!).  And to be honest, I figured it was like most any other chain restaurant. 

Wrong. 

Let's start by discussing the Sangria.  Delish.  And when you're dining w/ Sangria snobs like Iesha and myself, you can take our word for it.  Good stuff.  And a very electric shade of purple, if I do say so myself.

The guacamole appetizer?  Worth every penny.  Garlicy and chunky.  Likin' it.  The chips and salsa are also addicting.

Now, my Vegisaurus friends, here is where you're gonna love this revue.
The Border Cafe kindly offers many Veggie options, clearly listed and highlighted on their menu.  See the page link at the top to direct to the menu.

As you know I am not a Vegisaurus.  I'm an equal opportunity eater.  A WhateverIwantasaurus.  And on this particular occasion the Veggie menu conquered all with the Corn & Black Bean Empanadas with Red Pepper sauce and white rice. 

I have never had an Empanada before.  But the mixture of corn, black beans and Monterey Jack cheese was enough to make it a new fav.  They were so filling that I had to take a doggie bag!  Luckily they  reheated well. 

Aside from this dish, there are many Veggie App and Entree options.  So if you're ever in Cambridge, Saugus or in the Jersey Shore smushing, stop in for a bite at the Border.

To my Veggie friends who do eat Seafood, we've got something for you, too. 

Originally the Border was Tex Mex when they first opened.  But along the journey they incorporated a little Cajun love into their creations.  This is apparent in the dish Iesha had: The Eggplant Royale, which is actually a replication of a French Quarter favorite.

The Eggplant Royale consists of lightly breaded eggplant slices that are then covered with lump crab meat and melted, gooey cheese, with a side of white rice.  It is phenomenal.  It may not look appealing to the eye at first, but trust me.  It is a complete winner.  (If you're a strict, strict Veg, don't worry.  There is another Eggplant dish on the Veg menu.)

So that's our story, 'buds.  Bring your best forks to whichever Border Cafe location you choose and chow down.  Bring your Veggie friends and everyone can dine happily.

Beans on Pizza - You want to read this revue of the Lynwood Cafe

The Lynwood Cafe

320 Center Street

Randolph, MA

781-963-9894

Cash Only

Pizza Only

Growing up, I never had the opportunity to try the Lynwood.  In Mansfield, we'd order Cousin's, in Norwood we'd order Soko's.  Once in while my soccer team would take a trip to Town Spa. 

Now if you ask all my friends from the South Shore area, they have story after story about going to the Lynwood once a week, getting takeout, braving the long weekend waits to eat inside, arguing that there is no way Town Spa could ever top what's going on there.  I was starting to get jealous.

To set the record straight, I had eaten Lynwood pizza.  I'd say I have it about once a year at my friend's  house.  Let's just say they have a connection to the Lynwood.  They have a little annual party and if you're fast enough, you can grab a slice of the pizza they provide before it's gone. 

Lynwood's is a bar style pizza that most people can consume in one sitting.  I like that.  If you're going to be ordering pizza with four of your friends, order 4 different pizzas and share!  There probably won't be many leftovers. 

So this past weekend I had my first ever outing to the bar.  I walked in and felt like I recognized the place, based on people's descriptions of the dark interior and the bar and the games and the small tables and booths.  For a group of 7 people we had about a 45 minute wait that went by pretty quickly.  We had the luxury of putting our orders in prior to being seated.  Love that factor.  I think we were only sitting about 10 minutes before our pizzas started arriving.

Ok, now, I have to tell you, before I even started typing the first sentence of this revue, I became instantly starving.  If I could turn back time I would go back to Friday and order the Bean Special all over again.  Yup.  Beans on my pizza.  Baked Beans.  All over my little bar style pizza.  It was suggested that I order it crispy because the longer it cooks, the better it is.  Yup.  All true.  I only got through about 2 1/2 pieces of this one because it was filling.  But also because I wanted to try other flavors.

The cheese was one I tried and it was good.  I've never a met a cheese pizza I didn't like, really.  But even better than that was the Green Pepper Ring and Onion pizza.  I don't know what makes a difference between slices or rings, but this style was delicious.  It even looked really pretty with the green circles all over it.

To those of you who may have been at the Lynwood on Friday, if you saw a bunch of girls climbing into the old phone booth and posing for pictures...uh...it wasn't us.

Bar style, beans, tradition, quality, loyal customers.  Gotta love it!  Lynwood, I'll be back. 

Those Mystery Photos we posted on FB? Here's the reveal...

Russell House Tavern

14 JFK Street

Cambridge, MA
http://www.russellhousecambridge.com/

The adventure to Russell House Tavern, truth be told, did not originate as one based on revue potential.  But I can tell you, they have a lovely bathroom.

Once that business was taken care of, I decided we (we, being my Sister and I) needed to check stuff out and pull up a seat at the bar.  Immediately, I noticed that at the bar was a raw bar stations.  There were trophs of ice with greens and lemons acting as a bed for whole clams.  According to the menu they are priced at $2.50/per.  But we weren't in the market for clams then...or ever.

We orderd a Rapscallion and Longtrail Blackberry.  Both were pretty good and it was nice to have something with more flavor than our usual light beers

The bar is really nice.  There are long communal tables, but you must be seated by a hostess.  These are not seat-your-self. 

For a quick little bite from the appetizer menu, we opted for the Melted Cambozola Cheese, served with flatbread. 

The cheese is melted in a cast iron dish, over mushrooms and caramelized onions.  It is seasoned with Thyme and garlic, 2 of my favorite spices.  Served with flatbread on a wooden chopping board, it was different than any other appetizer I've ever had.  I really liked it.



Although we had a fun experience, popping in out of necessity and staying on for a snack, I am not too sure I'd pick the Russell House Tavern as a go-to spot.  Not my idea of a place to make the trek to on a Friday night for fun drinks and socializing.  I would, however, make the trek to have a planned dinner or event, as there is a huge dining room in the downstairs area.  I'd be really interested to try their dinner menu.

So! Now you know to where those Mystery FB photos belong.  Perhaps we'll try that again!

Ciao

Phantom Gourmet BBQ Beach Party @ Govt Ctr

BBQ Beach Party - hosted by the Phantom Gourmet
Govt Center - Last weekend
http://bbq.phantomgourmet.com/SD/home.aspx

Last weekend Government Center was enclosed in a smokey, delicious circle filled with BBQ stands from around the world.  Australia, Texas, good ol' Boston.  Booths of Roasted Corn and Fried dough.  Dessert stations like Wholly Cannoli and Wicked Whoopies.  You basically have to be rolled out of there, Violet Beuregarde style.

If you got there right at 12pm, which we didn't, you wouldn't have had to wait in any lines.  You could walk right up to the services of your choice and put down your money in exchange for some BBQ.  On top of the $10 entry fee, the prices were not too bad at the stands, especially if you shared. 

Aussom Aussie pork/shrimp

For example, Iesha and I opted to try some Aussom Aussie BBQ because their shrimp skewers looked very tempting.  I was eyeing the pulled pork and there happened to be a shrimp/pork combo meal for $10.  Love the economy style meal. 





Dave Andleman being fed by Paul MacKay



The pork was really good and flavorful. And the shrimp was spicy and full of grill flavors. But as a non-BBQ expert, I had to wonder what made this award-winning faire? Not because I wanted to complain, but because I am (still) genuinely curious. What I should have done was walked right over to Paul MacKay, while he was shmoozing with Dave Andleman, and asked him, "Why are you the best?" If any of you readers are BBQ experts, fill a blogger in! 

Corn on the cob is probably a staple that everyone thinks about at cookouts.  I think there is no greater snack in life than corn on the cob.  It is one of my all time favorite inventions.  Yup.  So yes, I am going to be MORE than willing to cough up $3 for an ear.  I was tempted to get 2, to keep my other hand from getting jealous.  The Roasted Corn stand was simple and to the point.  Give 'em the cash and they give you an ear wrapped in tinfoil.  Thank you very much.

 

After our BBQ and corn feasts, we couldn't even think about trying another savory, smokey thing.  We had to move on to the dessert area.  And move we did.  More like floated...

 

We got a couple Whoppies from Wicked Whoopies, as you may have heard of from Phantom Gourmet.  They're on the show all the time.  We ordered a Classic, a Peanut butter and a Red Velvet. Then we went next door to the Wholly Cannoli stand and got a Chocolate Chip and a Dynamite Stick.  We're glutton's for punishment.

After a tall Bud Light can and a dixie cup of Barefoot Moscato totaling $12, it was time to go.  We are glad we went (did I mention our tickets were free?), but we did spend a bit more than we'd hoped.  However, Phantom Gourmet does put on good events and we'd definitely go to another one.

With the Food Coma passed, the show (revue) must go on!

Read Part 1 here.  You'll want to see how the Food Coma started.

A quick recap of our outing to Salsa's: Chips, Salsa, Mahi Mahi Chowder, Papa Taco, Margarita, Good Service, and a partridge in a pear tree.

Basically last night I was in such a state of stuffed-ness, that it pained me to finish writing this revue.  And to be honest, I only have one more dish to share with you.  But trust me, it's worth the wait.

What I ended up ordering was the Pollo en Almendras (Chicken in Almonds).  Yup.  Almonds.

This was a dish of thin chicken breast covered in a salsa made of garlic, almond, sour cream, chipotle chilies and parsley.  If you look at the picture to the left, you can hardley see the chicken.  That's right.  They load on the sauce.  But honestly, as you cut up the chicken, the ratio with the sauce is not overpowering at all.  It's really quite good.  I really enjoy the whole almonds sprinkled throughout the dish.  The vegetable medley side dish was also really good.  I especially loved the grilled carrots.

Salsa's is really a great venue for delicous and above average Mexican foods.  Be sure to enjoy ingredients on the menu such as almonds and raisins!  This ain't to Chilis chain food!

Oh, and remember, try to get the window seats!  You'll love the breeze and the people watching.  And there's a nice view of Ben Affleck's favorite flower shop...

Eat well, digest for 24 hours.  Totally worth it.

Food Coma, aka Hibernaceion, ala Salsa's Mexican Restaurant

Salsa's Mexican Restaurant
(Guess who the owner is?  Find out here.)
118 Dorchester St
Dorchester MA

http://www.salsasmexican.com/index.htm

Happy Sunday, 'buds.  What are the odds that you watched Phantom Gourmet this morning?  And then what are the odds you saw a dish that you had to run out have immediately?  Well, the odds for me were really good.

The entire thing was weird.  Yesterday I was at the PG BBQ Beach Party (revue to come) and happened to meet the host of the show, Dan Andleman.  While he was super nice, I was completely cheesy, telling him I love the show and get so many ideas of where to eat.  Well, Dan, I did it again.



Papa Taco

Today Roomie and I ran to Salsa's, in Southie (There's a location in Hingham, too.) to get the Papa Taco, almost immediately after seeing it on TV. 

As the first diners of the day, we got prime window seating and really great service, including an instant delivery of chips and salsa.  Really good and fresh.

You already know that Roomie got the Papa Taco, which is baked potato mashup with steak, sour cream and bacon.  (Very filling and really good.)  But to start, I ordered the Mahi Mahi Chowder which was super buttery, filled with scallions and generous hunks of really nice fish.  I was blown away. 

 



Ok, 'buds.  This is going to have to be a 2-parter.  Stay tuned tomorrow to find out about the rest of our outing at Salsa's.  You'll be happy you did.