Tag Archives: Restaurant Review

Photo credit: Melissa Ostrow

Last Thursday Blue Dragon celebrated their one year anniversary.  This is Ming Tsai’s second restaurant and his first in Boston. When it first opened there was so much buzz it was impossible to grab a seat at this gastro pub that served Asian inspired plates.  One year later the place remains a popular destination, and I’m happy to say that Ming’s touch remains – the food and service is excellent.

Blue Dragon encourages you to share plates so there are only a few true dinner plates.   We sampled a bit of everything but one thing you *must* try is the potstickers on the menu; we tried two:  Carolina BBQ (top left) for $9 and Braised Short Rib and Chinese Celery Potstickers (top right) for $9.  Both were soft and flavorful, but I liked the kick in the BBQ Potstickers most.

We followed the poststickers with Ming’s take on Fish-n-Chips $12 that are made with panko cod, fries and served on a soft tortilla with cabbage, peppers and Chinese black vinegar aioli.  These were delicious and something I would recommend to anyone who likes this sort of thing. The peppers had some heat that I found really appealing.  We countered the “fish and chips tacos” with Teriyaki bison sliders $13 that come topped with smoked Gouda, caramelized onions and shiitakes.  Both plates went great with my winter lager.

For dessert we ordered the deep dish chocolate chip cookie $10.  The cookie is served warm in a skillet and topped with ice cream and caramel sauce and was delicious.  One year later, Blue Dragon proves it still is worth visiting.

Ming Tsai’s Blue Dragon is in Fort Point Channel at 324A street in Boston; open Monday – Saturday; closed on Sunday.

Pizza may be my absolute favorite food; perfect for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  A lot of people will dis Boston pizzerias in favor of pizza shops elsewhere, but I’ve found a number of places I really like.  One of my absolute favorites is the North End pizzeria, Ernesto’s.

The pizza pie crust is flavorful but not too thick and I love their sauce. My only beef with Ernesto’s is that they don’t deliver, but that doesn’t stop me from picking up a pizza every couple of months.  The large 18″ green pepper and onion pizza is $18 and change; and worth every penny. Give Ernesto’s a try if you live nearby or happen to be in the North End.

Ernesto’s Pizza – 69 Salem Street – Boston (617) 523-1373

Do you have a favorite pizzeria in Boston?  Do tell. 

Ostra opened late last year in space formerly occupied by Avila in the Back Bay.  Executive Chef Mitchell Randall describes his food as “contemporary Mediterranean” with a focus on seafood; fear not there are options for meat lovers too.  Ostra is Columbus Hospitality Group’s 5th restaurant in Boston and 6th in the area; it is a welcome addition to CHG’s collection of power dining options and sister restaurants (Mistral, Sorellina, Teatro, Mooo, and L’Andana – in Burlington).

The restaurant is beautiful with white walls offset by large, dramatic paneled photographs of the ocean.  The caramel colored leather booth seats and hints of gold add interest, but I really liked the custom chandeliers inspired by jellyfish that float high above the dining room.

Ostra also features a beautiful baby grand piano (nightly entertainment is set to start in February in their lounge) next to a comfortable long bar that seats approximately 15.  Main dishes at Ostra range from $28 to $90 (a dinner option for 2).

I started my first meal at Ostra  (I will be back) with the Hamachi ($19). There is a hint of heat courtesy of jalapeño oil and pepper, but it is very subtle and offset by the citrus.  I thought the starter was as visually beautiful as it was delicious to eat and I’d highly recommend it. Following our first plates, my friend and I continued to nibble on the warm bread and butter, while we chatted and sipped our cocktails.  My friend tried the Malbec braised beef short rib ($42). This was unbelievably tender and flavorful – meat lovers take note. I had been torn between a few options but our helpful (and distractingly handsome) waiter, Carlos, won me over with his description of the Native Cod ($36).  The fish was cooked to perfection and the accompanying sweet garlic whipped potatoes and mushrooms really made the dinner special.  The porcini mushrooms definitely added an earthy taste to the dinner and I made a concerted effort to include a bit of everything in each bite to enjoy all the flavors together.

Although I’m not much of one for ordering desserts in the name of ‘research’ we opted to try the Chocolate Hazelnut Cremeux ($13) – again a recommendation from our waiter, Carlos.  As with all the plates that come out of Chef Randall’s kitchen, the dessert only entices you more when you see it so beautifully plated in front of you.

Ostra is a fine dining restaurant and a welcome addition to the Boston dining scene.  Service from the moment I walked in to the moment the door was closed behind us was flawless. Our waiter was helpful without being intrusive and the GM, Alex Hage, whom I met when I walked in was so helpful answering all my questions about the restaurant and menu.

Another way to enjoy this new restaurant is to visit their lounge. Nightly entertainment will begin in February so patrons can enjoy a cocktail (or two), sample some of Ostra’s raw bar or share a plate while listening to the piano player.

Ostra – 1 Charles Street – 617.421.1200

Anyone who has grown up in the area will be familiar with the rivalry that exists between two of the North End’s biggest Italian pastry shops.

Mike’s vs. The Modern

Earlier this month I hosted three taste testers to blindly sample a plain cannoli from Mike’s Pastry and The Modern Pastry Shop. The testers agreed the size of the pastry was relatively similar, but the appearance of The Modern’s cannoli was more appealing. When I asked what it was about The Modern’s cannoli one tester said “it looked more rustic and homemade.”  You decide. Which looks more appealing to you?

Mike’s Pastry Cannoli $3.50

The Modern Pastry Shop Cannoli $2.50

While size and appearance matter when evaluating food, what really counts is what it tastes like and all three tasters agreed the cannoli from The Modern Pastry was superior.  The pre-filled cannoli from Mike’s made the cannoli shell not as appealing and the ricotta filling from The Modern was sweeter and creamier. Have you been to these Italian pastry shops? What do you think? Conduct a side-by-side sampling like we did and share your findings with me.

Do you like this sort of thing? You may want to check out the results of a another blind tasting: The Best Chocolate Chip cookie in the South End.

Boston’s South End has a high concentration of bakeries and cafes so I enlisted the help of three South End residents to take part in a blind tasting to determine who makes the best chocolate chip cookies in the neighborhood. I did not partake in the voting but organized the tasting that included (alphabetically): Appleton Bakery, Berkeley Perk Cafe, Blunch, Flour Bakery, Jaho Coffee & Tea, Render Coffee, South End Buttery and The Wholy Grain.

Without a doubt the clear favorite by all three tasters was The South End Buttery chocolate chip cookie that received a rating of 81.5 out of a possible 90 points. This cookie scored high in all three categories: taste, appearance and size.

Tasters commented that the cookie was soft and full of delicious chocolate chips.  Honorable mentions should also go to Flour Bakery and Render Cafe which came in second and third by the reviewers.  Listed below is the complete ranking and score of those bakeries and cafes sampled along with the cost.

Much thanks to Ben Samson, Ryan Losey and Dr. Julian D’Achille, South End residents and chocolate chip cookie aficionados who acted as judges for this blind tasting.

*Greenlight Cafe and Stella Cafe were not included because they were not open at the time of purchase. National chains in the South End were not eligible for consideration.

Tangierino in Charlestown serves both ‘old’ and ‘new’ world Moroccan cuisine. Over the years, their success has allowed them to expand into neighboring spaces so the restaurant is a collection of cozy, romantic dining rooms that also includes a subterranean hookah lounge. The rich decor and exotic smell of spices made me feel like I had left Boston behind as soon as I walked through the front door. After being seated we were asked if we’d like to wash our hands with rose water; a hand washing ritual that was both fun and fragrant. Following the ritual, a plate of hummus and olives were served.  The marinated olives had an unexpected kick and we all nibbled on them while perusing the menu. While there are many small plate and appetizers most range between $10-$16. For our dinner we settled on these delicious options.

Mendoubia Salad $11 Tangierino

The Mendoubia Salad is made with baby spinach and included goat cheese and cranberry wrapped in phyllo along with toasted pine nuts that was light and flavorful.

Chicken B’Stilla $12 Tangierino

The Chicken B’Stilla (a house favorite) is encased in a light phyllo with toasted almonds and sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar that is served with mint-yogurt.  This was part of the ‘old world’ menu and really was delicious.

4 Layer Tuna Tartar $14 Tangierino

However it was the Tuna Tartar that really impressed me. The base included chopped cucumber, followed by a layer of honey and mango, and then a generous helping of spicy tuna that is topped by a thin layer of guacamole and served with crispy wontons. After our plates were cleared and a brief belly dancing performance our main dishes were served.  Steve ordered the Tunisian Seafood Couscous.

Tunisian Seafood Couscous $29 Tangierino

The seafood is served on a bed of couscous that was cooked with familiar fragrances and spices that I couldn’t place but I recognized as staples to the Moroccan cuisine we were eating.  My meal proved to be more to my liking if only because it surprised me.  I usually prefer salmon grilled with citrus, but this filet was coated with harissa – a sauce made from chili peppers, paprika and olive oil – and I loved it. I devoured the entire plate. 

Salmon Baha $26 Tangierino

However it was Sergio’s order, M’rouzia of Boneless Short Ribs, that was both a house and table favorite.  M’rouzia is one of the most important dishes of Moroccan cuisine – a sweet and salty meat that combines a blend of spices with honey, cinnamon and almonds. Suffice it to say, the short ribs were delicious, practically melting in your mouth; and worth trying when you come to Tangierino.

M’rouzia boneless short ribs $28 Tangierino

Tangierino is open 7 nights a week. The restaurant is located at 83 Main Street in Charlestown.  Reservations are highly recommended.

Photo Source: Urban Daddy Boston

Estelle’s Southern Cuisine opened in the South End approximately one year ago but it wasn’t until recent that I visited this casual neighborhood restaurant. Estelle’s won me over with its easy going atmosphere, continuous stream of 80s pop rock that played all evening, and the impressive selection (30 all included) of beers on tap. While I lived in Atlanta for a few years, I’ll be among the first to admit I’m not a Southern cuisine aficionado so my comments are more focused on my impressions rather than if Estelle’s passes the muster as an authentic southern cuisine restaurant.

Estelle’s Bitter Green Salad $9.95

Estelle’s menu is reasonably priced with Starters ranging from $5-$14; Burgers & Po’Boys ranging from $8-$13; and Main Plates ranging from $18-$26.  I started my dinner with the Bitter Greens Salad that has a delicious sherry – mustard vinaigrette, beets, goat cheese & orange – spicy pickled carrots. The salad portion was so large it could easily be shared but that didn’t prevent me from eating nearly all of it myself.

Estelle’s Pulled Pork $12.95

Following the salad I ordered what the bartender told me is a reoccurring special, a Pulled Pork sandwich.  This too proved to be addictive.  The pulled pork was piled so generously on the bun that I needed my fork to eat some of the excess off before I could even attempt to pick it up to eat.

Estelle’s Chocolate Peanut Butter and Banana Pie $6.95

Against my better judgement I succumbed and ordered dessert when I heard the bartender describe how the chef puree’s peanut butter and banana and serves it on a light thin pie crust topped with chocolate and served with a side of fresh whipped cream. This was so decadently good I know I’ll have dreams about Estelle’s Chocolate Peanut Butter and Banana Pie.

From start to finish I enjoyed my dinner. This latest venture from the Wilcox Hospitality Group get two thumbs up from me.

Estelle’s 782 Tremont St  /  (857) 250-2999  www.estellesboston.com

PICCO is an acronym of sort that stands for Pizza and Ice Cream Co. This affordable South End restaurant serves up delicious pizzas, home made ice creams (flavors change daily) as well as a host of other pastas, sandwiches and salads that are all affordably priced.

In their initial review, The Boston Globe referred to PICCO as, “A destination pizzeria disguised as a neighborhood joint, Picco tempts even the most persnickety foodies with delicate brick-oven crusts and top-drawer toppings…” Although that review is several years old, PICCO’s food remains consistent. While service fluctuates depending on the night and staff, their menu and price point make it one of the better casual dining options in the South End.

Neapolitan pizza chopped tomatoes, fresh mozzarella & basil $20.00

The Neapolitan pizza shown above remains one of my favorites at PICCO.  Served slightly crispy with the mozzarella still bubbling, it takes a bit of restraint not to pick up a slice right away.  The pizza smells of slightly burnt crust and basil when it is first served and is large enough to share with another.

Small ice cream sundae $5.00

What would a visit to PICCO be without sampling some of their ice cream?  We shared a small ice cream sundae opting for the vanilla, pistachio & brownie ice cream with oodles of hot fudge sauce and whipped cream.

PICCO is located is at 513 Tremont Street, Boston in the South End. They open at 11:00 am daily.

The Border Cafe is a local restaurant chain that first opened their doors in Harvard Square in 1987.  The Tex-Mex and Cajun menu is very affordable, making it a popular destination for students. The atmosphere is very casual and the portions are quite generous as you can see by my glass of iced tea (below) which is so large you’ll definitely need to head to the bathroom at least once.I’ll be the first to admit that New England will never be known for their Tex-Mex or Mexican cuisine so I’ll defer to food snobs to call me out on my lack of experience, but I’ve never had a bad meal here. The service is consistently prompt and the waitstaff is knowledgeable – making helpful suggestions. Our (complimentary) corn chips were served warm, our drinks brought over promptly and the food was damn good. On this visit Sergio and I ordered a Chicken Burrito ($8) and Quesadilla w/ a side of homemade guacamole ($9). Both were served as requested and despite the very large portions, nearly finished. I had the quesadilla and had to pull back the tortilla to able to devour all the tasty melted cheese and veggies.  I also ordered a side of black beans ($1) because they are so good here and ended up waddling out after I ate too much.  While this particular location can be crazy during peak times, it remains a favorite location for quick, easy, cheap eats in Harvard Square and is a place I would recommend for a casual night out.

Border Cafe – 32 Church St. – Harvard Square – (617) 864-6100

In 2012 The Fairmont Copley and their restaurant, The Oak Long Bar + Kitchen, completed a $20 million remodeling and reopened to the public. A few months later, I provided my first review of Oak Long Bar + Kitchen in September 2012.

Earlier this month I found myself at the bar of this Back Bay gem and figured I’d see if the menu and cooking was as good as I recalled. The restaurant’s menu has changed as is so often the case and I was sad to see the tagliatelle dinner with braised ribs and lobster was no longer available. However the menu remains largely the same with flatbread options, several hearty main plates that range in price from $23 – $41 and a number of “snacks” or small plates from $8-$21.

I started my dinner with the hearth baked bread $5.  The bread was extremely buttery and you could smell and taste the rosemary liberally sprinkled alongside pretzel salt which was delicious with my beer.

I opted for a slightly healthier option, the Steak Salad $25, which was cooked as I asked. The presentation of the long stalks of romaine lettuce was prettier than my photo does justice, and the only disappointment was the accompanying bread that came with my salad.  My friend opted for the Steak Frites $41 but substituted his frites for a medley of summer vegetables. The over sized cast iron plate makes an impressive first impression. Fortunately, the meal lives up to the hype as my friend repeatedly mentioned how much he enjoyed his meal.

One year later and it appears that Oak Long Bar + Kitchen has proven that they are able to consistently serve a hungry public that is only too willing to step into this beautiful Back Bay restaurant.  Have not tried the Oak Long Bar + Kitchen or has it been a while? Give them a try, but reservations are recommended.

Oak Long Bar + Kitchen – Copley Square – 617.585.7222