THE DISH – the buzz on boston’s foodie scene
society, get ready to get your grub on. boston recently underwent an infusion of new restaurant openings … here’s a list of the new-comers and a bit of dirt on each:
Clink: 215 charles St. (liberty hotel), small plates – “Atmosphere is trendy/sophisticated. Some patrons were dressed up, but most wore jeans with a dressier shirt, girls in heels, guys in button-downs. Drinks were high priced–$14 and more for a 3 ingredient cocktail, but they were well made, and original. Great date place, or casual/fun night with friends.”
Da Vinci Ristorante: 162 Columbus Ave, Italian – “Too high in price for the quality of food.“
Kingston Station: 25 Kingston St, American bistro – “Kingston Station has the feel of a classic European railway station, with vintage white tiles, mismatched tables and chairs, and a small café in front. The casual atmosphere suits the American bistro fare served within. Popular items include beef carpaccio salad, steak frites, veal milanese, and truffle fries.”
Haru: 55 Huntington Ave., Japanese and sushi – “Haru is a modern Japanese restaurant known for its ample portions and striking design, serving inventive Japanese cuisine ranging from sushi and sashimi to creative salads and signature dishes like carpaccios, ceviches, tartares, filet mignon, grilled spicy shrimp and specialty rolls.”
La Voile Cannes: 261 Newbury St, French Mediterranean – “As of late October ‘07, La Voile was a new addition to the Newbury St epicurean scene presenting an alternative to the limited French establishments in the area. What’s to like about La Voile? For starters, the interior – the basement of the Newbury Guest House – is modern but classically elegant. The food is high quality although not extraordinarily expensive.”
Myers + Chang: 1145 Washington St., Asian cuisine – “The diner-like atmosphere of Christopher Myers and Joanne Chang’s latest endeavor has a hip but unpretentious vibe that permeates the entire production. Chinese favorites, with Thai and Vietnamese specialties thrown in for good measure, are served from the open kitchen in “tasting” portions to the beats of the latest indie hits.“
Saray: 1098 Commonwealth Ave., Allston, Turkish – “The decor is elegant and simple, with tablecloths and cloth napkins, a two-tone wall treatment in ocher and pale brick, and Art Deco style sconces. The menu isn’t quite as extensive as the Family Restaurant in Brookline Village, but offers soups, salads, a range of hot and cold appetizers, seafood dishes, a variety of kebabs, and a number of other entrees. They don’t serve liquor.”
STIX: 35 Stanhope St., skewers – “Sharing ownership with the neighboring 33 Restaurant, Stix also shares a similarly colorful, stylish decor. More than a dozen flavor-infused “stix” are offered, from seared scallops on ginger-mango stix to grilled steak on honey-bourbon stix. The rest of the multi-ethnic menu consists of small (beet salad, caramelized shallot and pear tart) and large (slow-roasted salmon, pan-seared chicken) plates, all of which are perfect for sharing.”
Vlora: 545 Boylston St, Mediterranean fare – “A focus on authentic Mediterranean cuisine–from Italy, Greece, and Albania–makes this restaurant a healthy and affordable alternative in the Back Bay. Named for the chef’s hometown, Vlora embodies a minimalist approach to cooking with an emphasis on taste and fresh ingredients. The extensive and reasonably priced wine list offers something for everyone. A cozy, European atmosphere enhances the dining experience.“
