Masa is a restaurant in Boston’s South End which has stood the test of time (first opening back in 1999). Because of its location near where Tremont Street crosses over the Mass Pike, I often overlook or forget about this restaurant with a southwestern inspired menu. The dining room can get quite loud but oversized booths along the far side of the restaurant can provide a more private (less jostling) dining experience.
Masa’s dinner menu is divided into “First Course” with most options between $8-$14 and “Main Course” with most options between $18-$30. They have a collection of tempting cocktails and some tasty appetizers which can boost one’s bill, but based on our recent dining experience – it was money well spent. We enjoyed a delicious meal courtesy of Chef Philip Aviles and were well attended by our waiter, Shawn, who I have to credit with suggesting I try the hibiscous caipirinha ($12). Props must also go to their bartender Greg Neises for creating this cocktail. It’s been a hit since it was first introduced to their drink menu in the summer of 2010. (PHOTO: Joeal Veak)
Photographed below is the dinner special – pork chop with ranchero tomato salsa, grilled baby corn, large chile onion rings, and garlic whipped potato for $26.95. And a signature dish at Masa, blackened rare ahi tuna steak on yellow mole and accompanied by potatoes and wild mushrooms for $24.95. Both meals were very flavorful and filling. The only knock against the food was the seafood special (not shown) it was so light and the portions so much smaller that the couple who ordered this left Masa still a bit hungry. By contrast the portions shown below were large and heavy enough that we were sated.
Masa is not the place one visits for a serious conversation or a romantic “date night” but it offers a creative menu filled with options that tempt both in liquid and solid form. If you have not tried Masa (or in our case if it has been a few years), I’d encourage you to give the place a try. They also have a boisterous bar filled with several options again in liquid and solid form sure to tempt you.
Masa is located in Boston’s South End at 439 Tremont Street
Reservations are highly recommended. Tel: (617) 338-8884
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