Category Archives: Quick Bite

July 13, 2012

Live Alive Café

Best Health Food Café

Overall: B+

Service: 4.5/5 Whether you pop in for a wheat grass shot or sit down to enjoy a glass of organic white wine and salad wrap, you will be warmly welcomed by the café’s laid-back, friendly staff. If you can avoid Live Alive’s busiest hours (in my opinion, weekdays from 11:00a.m.-1:00p.m and weekends anytime after 6:30p.m.), you will probably wait less than ten minutes for your your food. The convenience behind the ‘pay before you eat’ method and the ability to customize your made-to-order meal makes the wait during those busy hours worth it.

Food: 4.5/5 This place is a health nut’s dream. Not only is it vegetarian friendly, but it is also gluten-free friendly, vegan friendly, raw foods friendly, low-carb friendly, and macrobiotic diet friendly. The only thing it isn’t? Meat and dairy friendly (with the exception of whey protein and organic raw cheddar cheese from Cedar Grove). If you like simple, nutritious meals made with fresh ingredients, you should try this café. It’s easy to swap  or add ingredients, and the staff make excellent suggestions. Keep in mind that prices may vary with changes. Laura recommends a concoction she calls “The Simply Crushed,” which consists of green tea, bee pollen, and ice. Live Alive offers organic tea and wine, vegan soups, all-natural fruit smoothies, fresh squeezed juices, gluten-free cookies, warm meals, and cold salads. The warm meals and cold salads come in three sizes, including a “demi” size aka “taster plate” (smallest portion, one serving), “handy wrap” (warm meal or salad wrapped inside a whole-wheat tortilla), and a “filling bowl” (largest portion, two servings). Kid-friendly options include the cheesy quesadilla, ants on a log, peanut butter and jelly tortilla wrap, and dried fruit granola with milk.

Atmosphere: 4/5 Although this place is quite literally an urban oasis, it echoes ‘cliché health food restaurant’ in that is geared toward free spirits and plant-lovers. You enter into a funky, yet modest interior and hear the soft humming of blenders, smell fresh produce, and notice the bright, bold accents. Upstairs offers café-style seating, tables, and booths. Downstairs has secluded bench areas, 6-top tables, as well as a children’s play area that is fully equipped with books and toys. Check for the passcode at the register to acquire an internet connection.

Price: 4.5/5 Live Alive uses quality ingredients to construct creative meals tailored to each customer’s nutritional needs. The only way to get this quality of product for less money would be to go to the farmer’s market, pick up the ingredients, and make the meal yourself. Not everyone has the time, nor patience to make fresh, homemade meals daily. This is where Life Alive comes in. Founder and CEO Heidi Feinstein recognizes the importance of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that carry health benefits, which is why fresh, local produce is delivered to the café daily. Frankly, you get what you pay for.

Accessibility: 4/5 Live Alive is located on the corner of Massachusetts Ave and Inman Street. There is metered parking scattered along both streets. Pleasant Street off of Massachusetts Ave has a few blocks of metered parking on the left-hand side. The café is 0.1 miles (about a three-minute walk) northwest of the the Central Square T stop, which services the red line.

Recommendations:

-12 oz. Superhero Alive Fresh Pressed Juice {carrot, apple, ginger, spirulina, cayenne, garlic, apple cider vinegar, honey}

-16 oz. Elvis Alive Smoothie {peanut butter, cocoa, banana, coconut milk ice cream, ice. *Other additions may include: chai, avocado, kale, cinnamon, dates, rice milk, flax, hempseed, maca} *On August 28th, Live Alive’s smoothie menu changed; consequently the Elvis Alive Smoothie is no longer available.

-The Lover Warm Plate {shiitake mushrooms, steamed greens, shredded carrots and beets, broccoli, brown rice, ginger Nama Shoyu sauce. *Other additions may include: sweet potato (seasonal), sunflower seeds, tamari almonds, dried pineapple, red lentil hummus, sesame stix}

-The Hot and Healthy Bachelor Grilled Tortilla Wrap {melted cheddar, hardboiled egg, broccoli, warmed greens, Braggs, nutritional yeast, whole-wheat tortilla. *Other additions may include: avocado, pressed garlic, corn, tofu}

-The Seeker Cold Salad {spring mescaline greens, garlic-lemon hummus, granny apple slices, cashews, cucumber, shredded carrots, sunflower sprouts, ginger Nama Shoyu sauce. *Other additions may include: avocado (seasonal), sun-dried tomatoes, quinoa, cranberries}

-12 or 16 oz. Warm Vegan Corn Chowder

-12 or 16 oz. Dandi Blend Coffee Substitute {a detoxifying drink made from chicory and other roots}

 

765 Massachusetts Ave

Cambridge, MA 02139

617.354.5433

www.lifealive.com

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Filed under $$, American, Breakfast, Brunch, Café, Coffee and Tea, Dinner, Gluten-Free Friendly, Kid Friendly, Lunch, Macrobiotic Friendly, Quick Bite, Rating: B+, Raw Food Friendly, Sandwiches, Snack, Take-Out, Uncategorized, Vegan Friendly, Vegetarian Friendly

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October 11, 2011

Dali Restaurant & Tapas Bar

Best Red Sangria 

Overall: B-

$$

Service: 4.5/5 Dali’s helpful and friendly staff leads to a happy customer. You should expect quicker service sitting at the bar as opposed to sitting in the back corner, but the staff is both delightful and accommodating regardless of where you sit.

Food: 3.5/5 This establishment offers a full bar and late night menu as well as meat friendly, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu options. Although the ingredients could be fresher, and more savory, the flavors are more than palatable when you share a large pitcher (2 liters, 7-8 glasses) of Sangria, or order the Absinthe with melted sugar and ice water. If you’re new to Spanish red wines (the menu only offers Spanish wines), try the gentle and fruity Vina Alberdi Reserva (2003) from Rioja, or get a bottle of the smooth and well-balanaced Tres Picos (2008) from Borija. If there is a group of white wine drinkers, order Cava in a Porron. Hard-core winos? Splurge on a bottle of the powerful and vibrant Torre Muga Reserve (2003) from Rioja. And beer drinkers, try Alhambra, a classic Andalusian beer from Spain that has a full and clean taste with some bitterness and malt. Or go with a trusty Belgian lager, like Stella Artois. Cocktail enthusiasts may like the Cha Cha Cha!, which is made of Bacardi Rum, fresh mint, lemon, lime, mango, pineapple juice, and soda water. This is a great place to go with a group of friends, to throw a surprise birthday party, or to go on a fun date.  Ask what the specials are before ordering because the seasonal items tend to be the freshest here. You can also check their “Tapas Nuevas” online to view monthly regional tapas.

Atmosphere: 5/5 Grab the iron lion-shaped knockers on the heavy wooden double doors to reveal a diamond in the rough. Enter: Dali. Picture loud Latin dance music, eclectic knick knacks, and festive decor that includes red walls, tiled tables, gilded ceilings, and Spanish paintings on every wall. This place is full of energy on the weekends (especially Fridays around 7:00 p.m.), so call ahead to make a reservation, or be prepared to wait for seat at the bar. There is a nook, bar seat, or table for everyone. The authentic Spanish vibe, lively staff, and upbeat music stimulate good conversation and fun!

Price: 3.5/5  The prices are high for such small portions. A group of two or three could end up spending close to $90.00 for several tapas plates, drinks, and dessert. A few items on the late night menu (served 11:00 p.m.-12:30 p.m.) are decently priced for their size, including the $6.00 Tortilla Espanola with egg, potato, and onion; the $13.00 Trio of Tapas Sampler; and the $8.00 Conejo Escabechado, a braised rabbit with red wine, juniper, and garlic. Dessert prices are standard (less than $10.00), but unimpressive in taste and presentation. Drink prices are also average ($7.00-$10.00 for a glass of wine, $10.00 for a cocktail, $25.00-$45.00 for a bottle of wine, $5.00 for a beer), but the funky mixed drink options and Spanish-influenced beer and wine list make Dali’s selection unique.

Accessibility: 4/5 Metered parking is available along Washington and Beacon Street. Be careful because certain areas are  labeled “parking by permit” only. It’s easy to catch a cab near Cambridge Street, which is about three blocks from Dali. Bus stops are located on Washington Street and Beacon Street. Porter Square transit station is one mile (about 20 minutes walking distance) from the restaurant.

Recommendations:

-Dali’s Signature Pescado a la Sal {whole fish baked table-side in coarse salt}

-Filloa de Berenjenas {savory crepe with eggplant ragú, carrot-sherry sauce}

-Queso de Cabra Montañes {baked goat cheese with tomato and basil}

-Vieiras al Azafran {broiled scallops in saffron cream}

-Alcachofas Rellena {mushroom-filled artichokes}

-Albóndigas de Cordero {lamb meatballs with tomato-mint sauce}

-Double-Liter Pitcher of Sangria {2 liters, 7-8 glasses}

-Cava in a Porron {white wine in a communal drinking device}

415 Washington Street

Somerville, MA 02143

617.661.3254

www.dalirestaurant.com

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Filed under $$, Bar/Pub, Contemporary, Dessert, Dinner, Drinks, Full Bar, Gluten-Free Friendly, Late Night Menu, Meat Friendly, Private Parties, Quick Bite, Rating: B-, Restaurant, Snack, Spanish, Tapas, Vegan Friendly, Vegetarian Friendly

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July 17, 2011

Dave’s Fresh Pasta Bar

Best Make-Your-Own Gourmet Sandwich

Overall: A-

$-$$

Service: 5/5  The cashiers are friendly and they get your order right the first time. They will be happy to substitute ingredients and will even offer recommendations. You simply order and pay, take a seat inside or outside, and wait for your name to be called. I’ve never waited longer than fifteen minutes for an order and there are plenty of specialty groceries and wine varietals to browse through while you wait. Keep in mind that they stop making sandwiches half an hour before closing. Hours are Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m.-7:30 p.m. and Saturdays 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Closed Sunday.

Food: 5/5 Dave’s uses fresh, local ingredients to make some of the best sandwiches in town. What makes Dave’s the best place for making your own sandwich is that they offer a variety of quality ingredients. Not only that, but the establishment doubles as a unique grocery store that sells specialty foods and wines, handmade pasta (which they have been making and selling for more than twenty years), homemade sauces, fancy sodas and juices, local fruits and vegetables, and artisanal meats and cheeses. Choose from their menu of speciality sandwiches, handmade calzones, pasta salads, pita wraps and paninis, or get creative and build your own sandwich by selecting a protein (grilled chicken, plainville turkey, grilled flank steak, grilled shrimp, prosciutto, chicken salad, tuna salad, black forest ham, genoa salame, mortadella, hot capocolla, smoky bacon), cheese (homemade boursin french brie, fresh mozzarella, fresh vermont goat cheese, aged asiago, crumbled feta, sharp cheddar, imported swiss, provolone piccante), fresh veggies (hot peppers, hass avocado, cucumbers, alfalfa sprouts, tomatoes, caramelized onions, baby spinach, dill pickles, red onion, grilled portabella, katamala olives, fresh oregano, green apple, tomatoes, shredded carrots), homemade spread and/or dressing (chipotle aioli, tzatziki, black olive tapenade, dijon, grainy mustard, extra virgin olive oil, hummus, caesar dressing, mayo, artichoke and lemon pesto, greek dressing, tamari tahini dressing, dried fig jam, balsamic vinegar reduction, sun-dried tomato pesto, ranch dressing), and your choice of fresh bread (cibatta, pane rustico, french baguette, focaccia, whole wheat, Iggy’s rye, pita wrap). The possibilities are endless! I’ve been impressed with everything except the salads- save your money for one of their sandwiches or frozen pastas (easy to reheat at home).

Atmosphere: 5/5 Dave’s is more of a grocery store with a sandwich counter than a restaurant, but the casual Italian deli feel gives it a rustic charm (think blackboard menu, wood floors, pantry-like grocery display, wooden counters and booths) that’s hard to find elsewhere in Davis Square. Although seating is minimal, you can typically find a spot since people don’t linger long after meals. This is a great place to pick up picnic food or groceries for a night of at home cooking. Dave’s also offers wine tasting, cooking classes, catering, and gift certificates.

Price: 4/5 The portions are huge. If you have a voracious appetite, you can probably finish a whole sandwich. Otherwise Dave’s will gladly wrap your leftovers at the counter. This is no Subway. These sandwiches are made with fresh, local ingredients, so don’t expect to shell out $5.00 for a sandwich, drink and cookie. Specialty sandwiches and pasta salads cost less than $10.00, soups and salads cost an average of $5.00 each, and calzones that serves 6-8 peoples cost $25.00. In addition, there are enough specialty meats and cheeses, fresh produce, local ice cream, and homemade spreads to entice even the most frugal wanderer to leave with a sack full of goodies.

Accessibility: 4/5 For drivers, there is metered parking along Holland Street and Buena Vista. There is also a multi-space parking lot on the corner of Buena Vista Road and Holland St. Rates for meters (accepts quarters only) and parking lot (accepts quarters, bills, credit cards) are $1.00 per hour in $0.25 increments. Public transportation goers can take the red line to Davis Station and walk less than 0.1 miles (about three minutes) to Dave’s.

Recommendations:

-Italian Sandwich {mortadella, genoa salame, hot capocolla, provolone piccante, tomato, roasted peppers, red onion, hot peppers, fresh oregano, olive oil on your choice of bread}

-Roasted Veggie Goat Sandwich {fresh Vermont goat cheese, roasted eggplant and red peppers, greens, fresh oregano, olive oil on your choice of bread}

-Hot Tomato or Minestrone Soup

-Mediterranean Wrap {tzatziki, greens, tomato, red onion, shredded carrots, cucumbers, kalamata olives, olive oil in a pita}

-Cubano Sandwich {roasted pork loin, black forest ham, imported swiss, dill pickle, chipotle aioli on your choice of bread}

-My Personal Favorite Make-Your-Own Sandwich {swiss cheese, artichoke and lemon pesto, tomato, baby arugula, avocado on grilled focaccia bread}

 

81 Holland Street

Somerville, MA 02144

617.623.0867

www.davesfreshpasta.com

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Filed under $-$$, American, Café, Coffee and Tea, Deli, Dessert, Diner, Fast Food, Groceries, Italian, Kid Friendly, Lunch, Meat Friendly, Pasta, Quick Bite, Rating: A-, Sandwiches, Snack, Take-Out, Vegan Friendly, Vegetarian Friendly

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June 14, 2011

City Table

Best Fallback Restaurant for Dinner

Overall: B

$$

Service: 5/5 The service at City Table is what makes this establishment one of my favorite go-to dinner places. If the server’s food recommendation isn’t to your liking, they will take it off your bill. If they are fifteen minutes from closing the kitchen and you come in starving, they will make you feel like a preferred customer. The attentive and pleasant nature of the staff greatly contributes to the delightful opulence of this prime neighborhood destination.

Food: 3/5 The food isn’t life changing, nor is it a disappointment (to say the least). I can come here day or night (without a reservation) and know that I will have a satisfying meal. The restaurant is in the perfect location. You can grab a bite after shopping on Newbury Street, or stop by after a night out for snacks and drinks (cocktail and bar menu available until 2:00 a.m.). If you’re looking for American cuisine with a polished edge, this is your place. The flavors usually blend well (you won’t find an extensive use of salt to cover up blunders, but sometimes the food can be too sweet, too rich, or too bland), the menu is creative (Chicken Drummetts in a dark rum glaze with lime dipping sauce), and menu items change bimonthly (you can always try something new). The only qualm I have is that there is nothing to take this food to the next level. And the desserts are, unfortunately, nothing special. On the plus side, City Table offers a fully loaded bar, late-night menu, and multiple vegan options.

Atmosphere: 5/5 Nestled in the Lenox Hotel located in the Back Bay, this laid-back yet elegant restaurant creates a comforting and rich dining experience. The restaurant’s high ceilings, warm brown woods, bamboo and slate floors, and neutral palette present an upscale, organic atmosphere. This is the perfect spot for a special occasion, unexpected rendezvous, or late business meeting.

Price: 4/5 The pricey portions aren’t monstrous, but you really get your bang for your buck with the starters, sandwiches, and sides. Even big eaters can spend less than $45.00 and leave with a full belly. Start with the New England Clam Chowder sprinkled with apple smoked bacon and served with a corn fritter, or try a simple House Chopped Salad with diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red peppers, radicchio, mesclun mixed greens, and champagne vinaigrette.  For your entree, try the Pancetta and Asparagus Pizza with ricotta cheese, fresh mozzarella, basil, and roma tomatoes. Might as well order a hefty side of Herb Risotto too. Still not full? Then you didn’t dig into the warm bread basket and wine.

Accessibility: 4/5 Although meters are numerous along Boylston Street, they are hard to snag unless you circle the block a few times. Valet parking is available at the Lenox Hotel. If you prefer public transit, you can get off at the Back Bay subway stop on Dartmouth Street and walk approximately seven minutes to the restaurant. After getting off at Back Back station, head North toward Stuart Street, then turn left and continue onto Huntington Street. Turn left onto Exeter Street and you will see City Table.

Recommendations:

-Ava’s Sweet Pea Soup {with gooseberry creme fraiche}

-Endive and Roquefort Salad {shaved radicchio and romaine, walnut vinaigrette, brioche croutons, Macintosh apples}

-Surf or Turf Tacos {ancho rubbed hanger steak or seared ahi tuna, warm tortillas, spicy tomatoes, guacamole}

-Lamb Two Ways {sliced grilled top round and osso bucco, white asparagus, smoked gouda and leek smashed potatoes, Cabernet sauce}

-Side of Herb Risotto

-Chardonnay, La Poule Blanche, France

 

61 Exeter Street

Boston, MA 02116

617.933.4800

www.citytableboston.com

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Filed under $$, American, Bar/Pub, Boston, Breakfast, Brunch, Burgers, Coffee and Tea, Contemporary, Dessert, Dinner, Drinks, Full Bar, Late Night Menu, Lunch, Meat Friendly, Pasta, Quick Bite, Rating: B, Restaurant, Sandwiches, Snack, Take-Out, Vegan Friendly, Vegetarian Friendly

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April 8, 2011

Tasty Burger

Best Fast-Food Alternative

Overall: C+

$-$$

Service: 3/5 The staff is very obliging for such an informal and relaxed atmosphere. My only complaint is that the food can take too long to get to the table, which is unusual since the fare should take less than ten minutes on the grill. And when that food does reach the table, it isn’t always piping hot. Although Tasty Burger isn’t necessarily short-staffed, sometimes it feels that way.

Food: 2.5/5 Dieters, this may not be the best place for you (it is, after all, a burger joint). That being said, it’s the perfect place to go before a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, after a night at the nearby bars (try Jerry Remy’s Sports Bar & Grill, Royale Nightclub, or Lansdowne Pub), or before a movie at Regal Fenway Stadium. Vegetarians and vegans can substitute a veggie burger for any of the regular burgers. The food is on par with what one may expect from a burger joint. It’s greasy American cuisine that gets most of its flavor from fat and salt. If that isn’t enough flavor for you, choose from the myriad of condiments on every table, including yellow mustard, ketchup, relish, Tabasco, sriracha, A1, and Dijon mustard.  The food, similar to how the staff treats customers, is inconsistent. I’ve had great burgers and not so great burgers.  However, the food always tastes fresher than any fast food chain’s supply, the atmosphere is pleasant, the portions are large, and the prices are low.

Atmosphere: 5/5 This retro-inspired restaurant has an authentic 50-60s diner feel, probably due to the fact that it’s a refurbished gas station lined with bold red walls, cozy pleather booths, and a large painting of Samuel L. Jackson from a scene in Pulp Fiction. The free pool table, working jukebox, and giant chalkboard behind the diner that reveals daily selections of wine and beer contribute to the past-decade vibe. Tasty Burger is a casual, upbeat place to bring your college buddies, young godson/goddaughter/grandchild, or entire family.

Price: 5/5 The prices here are unbeatable. A single patty burger costs $5.00 and a double is only $2.00 more. You can even buy a “Sack of 5 Burgers” for $18.00 (only applies to take away orders). Hotdogs heaping with toppings cost $8.00 (you can get the smaller, 1/4 lb dog for $4.00) and there are three different varieties of chicken sandwiches for $5.50 each. Where else can you find a salad for $4.00? A huge pile of fries cost a mere $3.00, chicken nuggets are $6.00, and a pile of onion rings cost $4.00. Students can show a University ID to get a burger, fries, and beer for $10.00- not a bad deal. Aside from typical burger joint beverages like milkshakes, soda, and beer, Tasty Burger also serves lemonade slushies, rootbeer floats, raspberry-lime rickeys, and shirley temples all for less than $4.00 each.

Accessibility: 4.5/5 There is a parking lot in front of the establishment that is free on weekdays and $6.00 on weekends and Friday nights. If an event is going on near-by, the lot may be full. Street parking is usually available unless there is a Sox game going on. There is no drive-thru, but there is a pick up window that is open until 2:00 a.m. Kenmore is the nearest subway station.

Recommendations:

-Spicy Jalapeno Burger {cheddar cheese sauce, roasted jalapeno}

-Veggie Burger {lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle}

-4 Scoop Shake “Green Monster” aka Mint Chocolate Chip Shake

-50/50 Fries and Onion Rings

-Pitcher of Hoegaarden Beer

16 Boylston Street

Boston, MA 02215

617.425.4444

www.tastyburger.com

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Filed under $-$$, American, Bar/Pub, BBQ, Boston, Burgers, Diner, Dinner, Drinks, Fast Food, Kid Friendly, Late Night Menu, Lunch, Meat Friendly, Quick Bite, Rating: C+, Restaurant, Take-Out, Vegetarian Friendly

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February 14, 2011

Temple Bar

Best Fondue and Seasonal Accompaniments

Overall: B+

$$$

Service: 4/5 I’m always satisfied with the geniality of the waiter or waitress, but a few times I’ve had to wait uncomfortably long for my food to arrive. If you aren’t starving, it’s no problem. If you are, I recommend snacking on the delicious bread basket that includes whole wheat options and Boston brown bread.

Food: 4.5/5 Temple Bar specializes in modern American cuisine that suits any palate. Traditional American flavors blend well with New England’s seasonal influence, adding a modern twist to the fare.  Executive Chef Greg Boschetti Greg has previously worked for Chez Henri, a French meets Cuban restaurant in Cambridge, and moved his way up from Sous Chef to Executive Chef at Temple Bar. For brunch, try the “Croque” Eggs Benedict with artisanal sour dough, black forest ham, swiss cheese, smoked paprika hollandaise, and home fries. Or go for the Cowboy Omelet with chorizo, roasted peppers, mushroom, Vermont cheddar, and home fries. Meat-free dinner options include the Seasonal Vegetarian Charcuterie Board with vegetable terinne, pequillo pepper hummus, lemon edamame, daikon radish “spring roll” pickled vegetables, warm roasted root vegetable, and tarragon-mustard dressing. Also available are exquisite (and fairly priced) late night bar menu options, including the Crispy Confit Duck Wings with spicy pineapple duck sauce and sweet soy syrup for $9.00; Yuzu Citrus Tuna Tartar with spicy cucumber, avocado mousse, house made pickled ginger, and sesame rice crackers for $13.00; and the Rosemary and Sea Salt Pommes Frites with Malt Vinegar Aioli for $5.00.

Atmosphere: 5/5 This is one restaurant where the bar seating is just as warm and comforting as the rest of the charming interior. The spacious restaurant has exposed brick, ambient lighting and floor to ceiling mirrors on one end and a fully stocked copper and wood-paneled bar on the other. You and your party can lounge in oversized leather booths, or you can cozy up with an Old Orchard Sour (Lairds Applejack, lemon, simple syrup, yellow Chartreuse, angostura bitters) at the hightop bar. It’s a suitable dining or drinking venue for families, couples, friends, and chummy co-workers. 

Price:  Temple Bar serves fresh, seasonal food for a good price. Unique appetizers like Crispy Flash Fried Calamari with sweet and spicy dipping sauce and the Roomkass “Double Creme” Gouda Cheese Fondue with seasonal accompaniments are $11.00 and $16.00, respectively.  Meat and seafood entrees average $20.00, as do the vegetarian options like the Seasonal Risotto and Seasonal Vegetable Plate. Sandwiches and pizza are a bit cheaper, costing you less than $15.00, and the sides are the cheapest things on the menu. Try the Olive Oil Poached Fingerling Potatoes and the Sautéed Spinach with fried garlic chips for $5.00 each. Keep in mind that portions are satisfying, but may not fill you to the brim (which isn’t always a bad thing).

Accessibility: 4/5 There is free parking daily from 6:00 p.m.-1:30 a.m. behind the restaurant on the right side. Metered parking is also available along Massachusetts Ave. When it comes to public transit, take your pick between Harvard Square and Porter Square, since Temple Bar rests in between the two stations. 

Recommendations:

-Snake River Farm Kobe Beef Sliders {artisan brioche, caramelized onions, smoked tomato aioli}

-Roasted Beet and Endive Salad {candied pistachios, toasted goat cheese crostini, horseradish-buttermilk dressing}

-Vegetarian Chef’s Tasting {Prix Fixe. Appetizer, Entree, Dessert. Chef’s Choice}

-White Truffle Pizza {avocado, tear drop tomatoes, baby arugula, white truffle oil, aged balsamic}

-Seared Brussels Sprouts {olive oil, salt}

-Roomkaas “Double Creme” Gouda Cheese Fondue (paired with seasonal accompaniments, like thick pretezel bites, thinly sliced pear, fingerling potatoes, broccoli)

-Fresh Brewed Ice Tea

1688 Massachusetts Avenue

Cambridge, MA 02138

617.547.5055

www.templebarcambridge.com

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Filed under $$$, American, Bar/Pub, Brunch, Burgers, Contemporary, Dessert, Dinner, Drinks, Fondue, Full Bar, Fusion, Gluten-Free Friendly, Late Night Menu, Meat Friendly, Modern, New England, Private Parties, Quick Bite, Rating: B+, Restaurant, Sandwiches, Snack, Vegetarian Friendly

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January 19, 2011

Toro

Best Spanish Tapas Bar

Overall: A

$$$

Service: 4.5/5 The service is excellent. A waiter or waitress refills your water glass before you realize it is low, so who cares if you don’t get a heart-warming smile every time he or she stops by your table? Unfortunately, due to the small size of the restaurant Toro is unable to accommodate reservations for dinner. There is a first-come, first-served policy and the wait time can often be 45 minutes. You can order from the full menu  at the bar (if you’re lucky enough to nab a seat) or just grab a drink while waiting for a table to open up. Toro takes lunch and brunch reservations for parties of six or more. Toro does not deliver, but take-out is available.

Food: 5/5 Ken Oringer, Toro’s owner and chef, uses local, sustainable ingredients to create a large variety of remarkably fresh Spanish-inspired cuisine. My advice would be to grab a few tapas for the table. There are plenty of lunch and dinner options for carnivores, vegetarians, gluten-intolerants, and vegans. But if you don’t like churros (a Spanish doughnut accompanied by caramel and chocolate dipping sauce) you may not be inclined to order dessert, as it is the only option. Toro may slack in the dessert arena, but this establishment puts its liquor license to good use. There is an extensive drink menu that features unique cocktails, like the Calimocho (red wine and coke), the Cava (grapefruit bitters, sugar, yellow Chartruese), the Cabana Boy (Sailor Jerry spiced rum, canton ginger, pineapple), the Pisco Sour (Pisco Capel brandy, freshly squeezed sour mix), and the Southender (Reyka vodka, mint, lemon, cava). Other drinks include: sherry, bottled beer, wine by the glass or bottle, Marine Root Soda.

Atmosphere: 5/5 The high-ceiling, brick-and-beam interior with large mirrors, giant fireplace, and dark wood tables set the mood for the boisterous, relaxed restaurant goers who fill the cozy space. The roomy, stainless steel-clad kitchen provides a cool vibe for the chic environment and connects the customers to the cuisine. Various seating options accommodate every occasion. Nab the long communal table for a birthday get-together, relax at smaller table by the window with a date, or grab a drink at the bar solo.

Price: 5/5 The “Pinchos” are the least expensive, averaging $5.00 for each small plate. The “Tapas,” ranging from $5.00-15.00, supply enough bites for more than one person as long as you’re ordering additional similar-sized dishes. The “For Two” and “Quesos” options serve 2-4 people and cost about $30.00 per plate. Keep in mind that these larger plates usually take longer to prepare. For the quality of the food and unmatchable atmosphere, the price is doable.

Accessibility: 4.5/5 Unless you have a South End parking permit, it may be difficult to find a parking spot. Metered parking is available along Washington Street.  During certain times Toro has a valet, but expect to shell out about $20.00 for this service. Park Street Station is a 0.3 miles (approximately 6 minute walk) from the restaurant.

Recommendations:

-Pimientos Del Padron {hot green peppers with sea salt}

-Annas Empanadas {chicken and potato empanadas, aji roja, alioli}

-Maiz Asado Con Aioli Y Queso Cotja {grilled corn with alioli, lime, pepper, aged cheese}

-Escalivada Catalana {marinated wood roasted eggplant with onions, peppers, tomatoes}

-Costilla De Buey {braised short rib of beef}

-Potatas Bravas {fried potatoes with alioli and spicy tomato sauce}

-’07 Celler de Capcanes “Mas Donis Barrica” Syrah Blend, Montsant {rich baked fruit with cocoa and toasty notes}

-Estrella Damm Lager, Barcelona

1704 Washington St.

Boston, MA 02118

617.536.4300

www.toro-restaurant.com

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Filed under $$$, Bar/Pub, Boston, Brunch, Dinner, Drinks, Full Bar, Gluten-Free Friendly, Lunch, Meat Friendly, Modern, Private Parties, Quick Bite, Rating: A, Restaurant, Spanish, Take-Out, Tapas, Vegan Friendly, Vegetarian Friendly

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