Restaurants: MA

Boston Harbor Hotel. The combination of good food, outdoor flowered terrace overlooking the harbor(and

the new architectural gem of the Federal Court House across the water,)live music(on certain nights,) just

can’t be beat. The food ranges from Pizza to Grilled Salmon and Lamb Chops, and it’s all good. For a great

Monica’s Restaurant and Grill- This charming new addition to the ever-growing new restaurants of the

North End, is owned by the same Monica who owns the Pizzeria and the Salumeria in the neighborhood,

and run by her four burly Argentinian-Italian sons. The menu covers a wide-range of Italian dishes on the

"alta-cucina" up-scale of the Italian food line…don’t look for eggplant parmigiana, veal scallopini, or many

common "red-sauce" dishes here. There were six of us dining, and each one was more than satisfied with

his/her dish. The décor is simple/classy and the service is very attentive. (4-stars)

Restaurants seem to be popping up all over the area known as Union Park, in the already-trendy South End. On Shawmut Avenue alone, we counted three restaurants, including the one that we ate at called "Dish." As an interesting alternative to the sometimes-out-of-control pricing of many of the South End eateries, this small corner neighborhood place is reasonable, considering the fact that the food is excellent, and the service is also quite good. Waiters actually know something about the dishes that they're serving! The ambience is charming, and very comfortable. Karl and I started with delicious very-large, Antipastas and Pete had what he said was a wonderful home-made Clam Chowder. As an entree I had Cajun Meatloaf with Ricotta Mashed Potatos, Green Beans and Tomatoes. The other entrees at our table were Baked Penne, and Linguini witn Tuna and Reggiano. We sampled the cheeses with a Cheese Platter for the table. Everything was delicious, or maybe it was the wonderful house Sangria with which we "washed down" our meals!

Open only three months, this lavish Beacon Hill restaurant is already being seen as one of Boston'e top 10...and deservedly so. By any criterion that you might apply...decor, food, service...this is a 5-star restaurant. From the minute that you step into the beautifully decorated dining room, you know that good things are going to happen here. Be prepared to pay dearly however(my entree, Dover Sole, was $42!) for the privilege of dining here.

Relatively new to Harvard Square is the beautiful Graham Gund-designed Inn at Harvard. The entire atrium of the hotel is given over to its' restaurant. Although the exterior of the Inn is designed to look like the brick buildings in Harvard Yard(across the street,) the restaurant is an opulent recreation of a European courtyard, complete with murals, a 3-storied balcony, and a glass roof 5- stories overhead. The menu this Easter Sunday consisted of everything from Fruit and Salmon, Wild Mushrooms, and Oysters and Scallops as Appetizers, to Braised Lamb Shank with Vegetables, Roast Salmon Filet, and Potato and Onion Tart as Entrees. Although the food was very good, our interchangeable Indian waitresses managed to get everything wrong.

What used to be the "new age/touchy-feely" vegetarian restaurant, "Small Planet," has been reborn as a very upscale, yuppified, restaurant in the Back Bay. Although the people were often two-deep at the long bar, it's still more of a trendy place to eat, than it is a place to go for a drink(the tavern in the name is a misnomer.) Not that the food is anything exceptional. The menu, although small, is interesting and all over the place, from quesadillas and nachos, to grilled rib eye, lamb chops, and penne pasta with sun-dried tomatoes, shallots and arugula in a saffron cream sauce(my choice.) It's all good, but nothing to write home about. The desserts(chocolate torte) were excellent, as was the Australian chardonnay. Our table, in the loft, caught the cigarette smoke from the bar below, and we had to wave frantically to get our waiter to take our order. Just a little nit-picking, but enough to lower the rating.

All of the beautiful people, who have been populating the bar and dining rooms of Mistral and Radius for the past couple of years, have now moved on to the latest hot-spot in town, Bomboa, on the border of the Back Bay and the South End(in Boston.). Don't walk too quickly through the bar area and its' zebra-skinned banquettes, or else you'll miss the fashion show of models in their Armani, Versaci, Gucci, and Dolce & Gabbana duds. The back room is relatively subdued, although the waiters in their South- Beach- black are somewhat imposing, as is the large rear-wall aquarium! The dishes on the menu are all South American, as a French chef would prepare them. At our table we had Chevre Salad, Steak Tartare and Kahlua Cocktail(!) as appetizers, and Steak Frites, Cassoulet, and my Artichoke and Mushroom Puree with Truffles and New Potatoes as entrees. Presentation, Service, and Ambience were all excellent, but the food fell just a bit short of the 5-Star category. Desserts...Wine Soup with Citrus Fruits and Sorbet, Kahlua Cocktail(!), and Pineapple and Macaroon Tart with Sorbet, were original and first rate.

After the movie, my friend Jack and I went to a pub right in Kenmore Square(near Fenway Park) that I must have passed hundreds of times, and never thought to go in, because it looked seedy from the outside. Inside it's a terrific place, with every beer that you could think of, and some good food to go along with it. When I go to a new pub, I always try the Shepherd's Pie if it's on the menu. It was, and it was very good. Not as excellent as the one at Molly Darcy's, but very good, and different. The gimmick in this authentic-looking pub is that they have dozens of board games up front that people can check out and play while they're drinking. The people at the table opposite us were playing "Sorry." If there were more of us, I would have checked out "Clue," "Risk," or "Monopoly!" A fun time.

In what is primarily a neighborhood take-out place, you can sit down at one of the six tiled tables and eat some of the freshest, best prepared Mexican food in town. My friend Scott and I had one of just about everything on our table(e.g., fresh-baked chips and salsa, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, tamales.) Everything was delicious, and it's all very reasonable. In a take-out "joint" you don't look for interesting decor, but here, you get it. Study the pictures on the walls, (and in the bathroom;) thery're fascinating.(3 1/2-Stars)

It's always fun to find an honest-to-goodness neighborhood Italian restaurant, one that serves good, wholesome, basic dishes, with decent prices, in an unpretentious setting. If that's what you're looking for, and you're in the Allston neighborhhood, then Carlo's is the place! The menu is simple, with all of the usual appetizers, pastas, and veal and chicken dishes prepared in the usual way. No big surprises here. What is a surprise is that everything we had was good. Just don't expect goat cheese and truffle raviolis here! The only negative is the place itself. It's small, cramped, and overly crowded. Everyone appears to be at your table. In spite of this, the service was good.(3 1/2-Stars)

The Garden of Eden is a neighborhood cafe in the South End, but it's very similar to the kinds of roadside cafes that are to be found in the countryside in France. Nothing pretentious about the decor(wooden communal tables, as well as round cafe tables,) or the food(Choucroute Garnis, Flank Steak with Potatoes and Asparagus, Spinach Tortellini withWine-Herb Sauce and Leeks.) The cheese tray is exceptional, and I was introduced to a delicious new cheese(new to me) called Morbier. Everyone seems to know everyone else in here, adding to the neighborhood feeling of this bistro/cafe. However, other than the delicious homemade desserts(made on the premises,) the food is really nothing out of the ordinary. From the homey look of the place, you really expect better than what you get.(3 1/2-Stars)

Boston has a brand new family-style restaurant in the theater district, similiar to Vinny Testa's and La Famiglia here in town, and Carmine's in New York. It's better than the two in Boston, and just about as good as Carmine's...and that's VERY GOOD. The place is huge and beautifully decorated in polished woods, paintings, and large framed mirrors. The service is the best we've had in ages; our waiter was extremely friendly AND knowledgeable. You can order a la carte or family style. If you order family style, you get to choose two large portions(for the table) from each of six courses, and there are plenty of dishes to choose from in each course. For four of us, we had Spinach and Artichokes al forno, and Tomatoes, Bufalo Mozzarrella and Peppers as our appetizer. Maggiano's Salad and Caesar Salad as our salads. Lasagne and Eggplant Parmesan for our pasta course. Chicken Piccata and Salmon Limone with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Sauteed Spinach as our meat/fish dish. Our dessert was Profiteroles with Vanilla Gelato and Hot fudge Sauce, and Lemon Ice. Everything was delicious. In the nit-picking departrment, the valet service is run by idiots!(5-Stars)

For those of you who are familiar with "Aujourd' Hui," the premiere restaurant at the Four Seasons(and arguably Boston's finest restaurant,) you know what to expect from a restaurant at THIS hotel...excellent service, excellent food, and excellent ambiance/decor. Well, the "second" restaurant at the hotel delivers exactly the same. People used to say that the "Bristol Lounge" was "Aujourd' Hui", but cheaper. Now, unless the prices upstairs have become stratospheric, I wouldn't call "Bristol Lounge" cheap at all...not at $150 for two(including wine.) But, it's worth it. While "Aujourd'Hui" leans to Classic French cuisine, the "Bristol Lounge" serves up Gourmet American. We had Onion and Gruyere Tart, followed by a wonderful Wild Rice Risotto with Madeira, and Lobster Bisque, followed by Chilean Sea Bass with Grilled Vegetables. Dessert was Chocolate Mousse Tart and Cake. Wine was an excellent Pinot Grigio. Sofas, tables and chairs are arranged in a large room with a beautiful wood-burning fireplace, as though you were in the magnificent living room of a mansion on Commonwealth Avenue.Truly, a fine dining experience;save it for a special occasion. (5-Stars)

There is certainly no shortage of good Mexican restaurants in the Boston area, but what sets this new Kendall Square(Cambridge) eatery apart from the others, is that it is strikingly beautiful in its' decor. It looks as though it was designed by Georgia O' Keefe! Everything about it is in keeping with the pastels of the Arizona desert. What isn't unusual is the menu; it boasts all of the same Mexican dishes that you would find in any other good Mexican restaurant. However, the food itself IS exceptionally good. Even simple dishes like the Mexican burger platter (although it had a less mundane name!) were better than the usual. My Nachos Rancheros could have fed two easily; they were delicious. Service was excellent...our waiter seated three of us at a table for 6. The luxury of all that extra room at a table warrants an extra "star!"(4-Stars)

This wonderful pub could have been transported directly from the streets of Dublin into Southie. Once you stepped through the wooden front doors into the smoke-filled side pub, you WERE in Dublin. The wooden walls and floors(with prints of Ireland on the walls,) the beer glasses hanging from the racks over the long bar, the patrons glued to the TV watching a football game(in Ireland it would be soccer,) and the unusual smell of cigarette smoke in a place of food and drink...this WAS Ireland. In the beautiful side dining room , where the tables were made of antique sewing machines(!) we were seated quickly, and ordered too much food for a day when we were going to eat a big meal at night. But thank goodness we did, because we all had what I thought was the best Shepherd's Pie that I've had outside of Ireland and the U.K. A wonderful experience. (5-Stars)

I had heard that this was a hot and trendy new addition to the already restaurant-filled North End, and that the food was quite delicious. What I found was a somewhat small place, with walls done in a very attractive trompe-l'oeil style (fake marble columns, brick walls and lots of blue sky,) and an ostentatious waiter, who loved the sound of his booming preacher-like voice. He was aiming for subtle humor, and sometimes he hit his mark! As for the food, we shared an appetizer of pan-fried greens over a crunchy polenta, which I liked very much, but the others thought was somewhat bland (all portions are huge.) Pete and I had one of the specials for an entree...tortellini with gorgonzola, sun-dried tomatoes, pine nuts, and porcini mushrooms. It was delicious, but much too much food for someone who had an enormous Shepherd's Pie for lunch!!! Chris' gnocchi (in fresh pomodoro sauce) were somewhat pasty, but Karl said that is Chicken Valdostana was delicious. Alan's Linguini Carbonara looked good, but not out of the ordinary. In fact, that's what I would have to say about the restaurant in general...GOOD, BUT NOT OUT OF THE ORDINARY. The California Pinot Grigio was excellent, anyway!(3 1/2-Stars)

What can be said about yet another Tex-Mex restaurant, no matter how good it is? The place is stylish, trendy, and very large, and it's situated on a busy thoroughfare in Cambridge(Mass. Ave.), right near MIT, so it'll draw both the MIT and the Harvard crowds, as well as everyone else. The menu is a clone of Carlito's, and every other Tex-Mex place in town. The food was somewhat bland, in spite of the advertised hot sauces, but the beers and the desserts were good. We had a good group, and the conversation was lively, so I wasn't too concerned that my bean and cheese burrito entree tasted like wet cardboard...although my Caesar Salad was excellent.(3-Stars)

When I was flying back from Orlando last week, I read a magazine article in which chefs from around the country were polled to determine their choices for "best new restaurants." Their choice in Boston was EVOO. So I immediately moved it to the top of my "must-eat-at" list, and a group of us went there tonight to try it out. It's not surprising that this stylish place is not really in Boston, but in fact, in Somerville. Not surprising, because after I moved out, some of the best new restaurants started opening up there. Tell you something? EVOO(stands for "extra virgin olive oil!") does it all right, starting from its' chic industrial look, to the excellent and unusual choices on the menu(eclectic American), to the preparation, presentation, and serving of the food. All top drawer. Two of our group got something called Chinese box, filled with pulled pork, grilled shrimp, potatos, mushrooms, etc. It was JUST THAT...an inverted take-out paper box with all of the ingredients molded into a towering stack. Very creative. Everything was excellent, and we all came away feeling satisfied. (5-Stars)

This excellent restaurant has just eliminated one of their best dishes from the menu...Beef Wellington(the Saturday night "plat du jour"). Since this dish was the reason that many people went to Brasserie Jo, I thought that it warranted a "restaurant UPDATE!"

Why anyone would choose to put a huge, fancy Mexican restaurant in the Roxbury ghetto, is one of the great mysteries, along with the inexplicable popularity of Pokemon, skateboards, and Andrea Bocelli. But there it is, and if you like the Tex-Mex variety of Mexican food(tacos, enchiladas, burritos,etc.), and a menu in which almost every dish is made with chicken, then you'll probably like this new place. I chose a queso fundido as an appetizer(washed down by a glass of sangria,)and as an entree, a Mexican pasta in a sauce of chili and creamed shallots. It was pretty good. Our waitress, unfortunately, was the most incompetent waitress that I've seen since the medicated one at Lodo in the North End. She did NOTHING right. Thank goodness the company was good!

This fun restaurant has just opened down the block, and it already seems to be a big hit with the Symphony and Huntington Theater crowd...it was packed tonight. The way it works is: after you've had your appetizer(I had a delicious "Caesar" salad with hot ancho dressing,) you then select one of several types of rice or noodle(I selected Shanghai wheat noodle), then a sauce(mine was Cuban chipotle and citrus), then what goes with it...chicken, beef, shrimp, or vegetables(I picked vegetables...which you can select yourself.)The portions are huge;everything was delicious, and after all of the spices, I needed the fine lemon-ginger sorbet! All of this came to about $21, including tip! The diner atmosphere was designed by Peter Niemitz, who designed the exclusive Clio(our neighborhood's best restaurant), and it's very attractive. A welcome addition. (3 1/2-Stars)

Although I've walked past this neighborhood restaurant at least once a week, I never felt the need to go in because(a) it has an unappealing storefront look, and (b) I dislike Indian food. After reading a very positive review of it in the Boston Globe, I thought that I'd give it a try. The first thing that you notice when you walk in is, what I consider to be an unpleasant odor...the odor of Indian food! The menu is very long, filled with lots of lamb, rice, spices and breads. I settled on an appetizer called batata wada(love that name!) which was mashed potato patties dipped in chickpea batter and deep fried. Very good. My entree was chicken vindaloo...chunks of chicken cooked with sliced potatos in a very hot vinegar sauce. Although hot, it wan't nearly as hot as the jerk seasonings on last night's scallops. This was also very good. Nice experience; no need to return. (3 1/2-stars)

The latest branch of Boston's most famous seafood chain, has opened in the theater district, and it's by far, the most beautiful of them all. Of course, the food is excellent, as is the service. I ordered: as an appetizer, corn and crab hush puppies; as an entree, sea scallops with jerk seasonings, mashed potatos, and butternut squash; as dessert, blackberry and lemon sorbet...all as perfect as could be expected.( 4 1/2 stars)

A good dining experience can easily be ruined by factors that have nothing to do with the restaurant's food. Last night, this happened to me. These factors included: (a) four mermbers of our seven member party showing up 35 minutes late...not the first time that they've done this...leaving the other three people to deal with an unhappy owner, (b)the most bizarre, incompetent waitress that I've ever encountered in a restaurant("I'm not an airhead; I'm on cold medication!!!") Other than that, the food and decor in this relatively new North End eatery is up there with the best in the neighborhood. All of our food, ranging from delicious appetizers of pan-seared scallops, to excellent pasta, seafood and meat entrees was prepared to perfection.(4 1/2 stars for food; 0 stars for "everything else!"

Owner Michela Larson, and chef, Jody Adams, formerly of "Rialto" and "Upstairs at the Pudding" both in Cambridge, have opened their new restaurant, "Red Clay" in the Chestnut Hill Atrium. The restaurant is a triumph of interior design, in the Adam Tihany mold. In fact, it may HAVE been designed by Tihany Unfortunately, as the old saying goes, you can't eat the chandeliers! The only thing truly delicious on the menu, are the appetizers; it's downhill after that. My friends had Lemon Chicken served in red clay pots(get it?) which, they said, was quite ordinary. I ordered a pizza for an entree because my appetizer(eggplant panini with olive tapinade,) was very fillling; the pizza was just OK. To make matters worse, the service was dreadful...long waits between everything. Maybe we should have waited a few months! (2 1/2-stars)Nick

DE LUX CAFE- Inside this hot and trendy spot in the South End, lurks a place where bikers and truckers might eat on a lonely stretch of road outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico! The walls are covered with Elvis memorabilia, music of the '50s and '60s is playing, and there's a lighted Christmas tree on the bar. The clientele, far from the expected grungy, is squeaky clean and collegiate. The food is surprisingly good, ranging from spiced turkey wrapped in banana leaves to pork tenderloin in green Thai curry sauce, and grilled polenta with butternut squash and tomato sauce to chicken quesadillas. Prices are very reasonable, and the waitress suited the decor...possibly moonlighting as a bike messenger? (3 1/2-stars)

THE BACK EDDY: Chris Schlesinger, the owner of the East Coast Grill and The Blue Room in Cambridge, has opened a new riverfront restaurant in Westport, in the Southern part of the state. The reviews have all been raves. Well, I BEG TO DIFFER! If I'm going to travel 65 miles away from a great sea-food town to GET sea-food, it better be something very special. On the contrary, the food(most of which is fried!) is very ordinary, the decor, aside from being right on the water(as is EVERY sea-food restarant in Boston!), is nothing to write home about, and the service is so bad that I don't even have a category for it. I can't remember the last time that I had to deal with such an incompetent waitress.(1 -star)

The four "best" steakhouses in Boston are: Grill 23 and Bar, Morton's, The Palm, and Capital Grille. The best of the four is Grill 23 and Bar. If you love your steak, in a beautiful atmosphere loaded with testosterone, this is the place for you. My appetizer was Marinated Tomatoes & Buffalo Mozzarellas, and my entree was Grill 23 Meatloaf with chorizo and wood fired tomato coulis. It was one of the tastiest meatloaf dishes that I've ever had. Dessert was Fallen Chocolate Souffle Cake(!) Service and presentation were excellent.

RESTAURANT REVIEW- TAVERNA TOSCANA- There's nothing pretentious about this simple Tuscan restaurant in the North End, except its' excellent food and gracious service(our waitress had just recently left her home in Florence to work here.) Although quite small, with tables filling the room, one doesn't seem to be intruding on the conversations of ones neighbors. I stayed with the tried and true, a delicious risottto alla contadina,but my friend Pete ordered an excellent whole (boned) trout with lemon and capers. Both were cooked to perfection. Unfortunately, the restaurant serves no desserts. (We went to the Caffe Paradiso, where they serve nothing hut desserts!) The hostess at the restaurant is an Italian charmer...worth a visit just to talk to her.(4 1/2-stars)

ATLANTICA- Our plans were to have dinner at the Red Lion Inn in Cohasset, prior to seeing Michael Feinstein at the South Shore Music Circus there. This restaurant was the only one in Cohasset recommended by both last year's Zagat Survey and AAA. When we got there, we found that the Red Lion Inn was gutted and undergoing a restoration! After asking around, we found out that there were two other restaurants in town. We went to the first, Kimball's to take a look at the room and the menu. The menu was fine and the room was elegant, but staid(the kind of place that you'ld take your grandmother to.) We drove to the second, and brand new place. Right on the water, everthing about the ATLANTICA was perfect. Beautiful decor, excellent menu, and as we found out later, fine food. What keeps it from getting 5-stars is that when we entered, without reservations, we had to eat in the very-beautiful pub area, as opposed to the "fine dining" area(which has a separate, much more pricey, menu.) Smoking is allowed in this area, and we did encounter a smell of smoking as we entered the room, but not as we were dining. Definitely worth the short drive(20 miles) over from Boston.(4-stars)

RESTAURANT BRICCO- As much as I hated to see "Vado Pazzo" close (I loved their variety of risottos,) Restaurant Bricco is a welcome addition to the dozens of excellent restaurants in the already-crowded North End.

Taking fresh Italian ingredients, and preparing them in a way that is often called "the California style" chef Bill Bradley, fresh from the Napa Valley, turns traditional Italian dishes into works of art The interior design of Bricco is by Adam Tihany, and some of the presentations look as though he designed THEM as well..Don't look for your usual red sauce pastas here; instead what you'll find will be surprising and wonderful. Do save room for a dessert created by pastry chef Kristen Gitierrez; you won't be disappointed. (4 1/2-stars)

For those of you who know how much I dislike Chinese food and Chinese restaurants in general, it'll come as a surprise to you(as it did to me) how much I enjoyed the Golden Temple in Brookline. Maybe it was because of the excellent company, or maybe it was that terrific Frozen Banana Daiquiri, but everything seemed to be quite sophisticated and high-quality. The decor of the restaurant is elaborate, bordering on Vegas glitzy, and so this helps to make the diner feel confident that what's coming out of the kitchen is what you've ordered rather than the usual "mystery food." This may be a false sense of confidence, but everything was, in fact, delicious and prepared to perfection. For an appetizer I had Scallion Pancakes and my entree was Szechuan Shrimp with peppers, carrots, celery, and onions over rice.(Very hot and spicy!) One of my friends had Crab Rangoon as an appetizer and this was the best dish on the table. The only dessert available was fortune cookies(!) Just as I was thinking that the clientele was very classy , I noticed an idiot eating with his baseball cap on. OK, so I have certain pet peeves. Who doesn't?

On a warm summer night, when you're looking for a great meal in an outdoor setting, where there's good people-watching, in a colorful neighborhood, Boston offers so many choices. You can either head to the North End, the Faneuil Hall area, the South End, the Harvard Square area, the Waterfront, Newbury Street, etc. We went to the South End with its majestic brick townhouses and the constant parade of "colorful" people, and trendy restaurants. The Clarefront Cafe, with its award-winning Sunday Brunch, has been slowly becoming a great dinner place. I'd been hearing so many good things about it that I thought that we'd give it a try. The menu is Meditteranean with a South American touch(tapas.) For my appetizer I chose an Eggplant, Arugula, and Marinated Mozzarella Terrine and Green Risotto(with Spinach, Arugula, Basil, Tomato and Corn) as my entree. Dessert was a Chocolate Brownie Parfait. We had a delicious Sangria to accompany our meal. Food and presentation were excellent, but service left much to be desired. I had to ask for the parmesan to put on the Risotto, and the busboy was a stealth busboy, sneaking up on us like a cat. Once, when I turned to make a gesture, I slammed into him knocking over part of the dish that he was serving to me! It's a good thing that we were sitting outside, and the lettuce just fell on the pavement like Autumn leaves! Of course, it was HIS fault. When he brought the check, he forgot to include the bill to be signed!!!

A DAY AT THE BEACH and a RESTAURANT REVIEW-"THE RED PARROT" at NANTASKET BEACH

When two friends of mine called to ask me if I wanted to go to the beach, I put aside my plans for the afternoon and evening and grabbed my blanket and sunblock...the weather was perfect. We drove out to Nantasket Beach in Hull, and spent some time relaxing on this huge Atlantic Ocean beach. When we all got hungry, we left the beach and walked along the beachfront street, checking out the various foodstands, clubs and restaurants, until we found the perfect place. What attracted us to The Red Parrot was its size, its huge second-floor deck for drinking/dining, and its view of the ocean. The menu was eclectic...it included EVERYTHING! We had drinks and then I had a plate of Pasta Primavera. The food was good, but not exceptional, and the service was comical(our waitress didn't know what a pepper-mill was!)but everything came together...perfect weather, a spectacular view of the beach and the Atlantic Ocean at sunset, good drinks and food, and most importantly, good conversation with wonderful friends. A perfect afternoon and evening.

Chef/Owner Todd English, who presides over "Olives," (which many people consider to be Boston's finest restaurant,) as well as his three up-scale bistros called "Figs"(in Boston, Chestnut Hill, and Wellesley,) has now created a seafood restaurant to add to his empire. Previously, when friends came to town and wanted my recommendations for a place to get "the best seafood in town," I would always say "Legal's"(Legal Sea Foods,) but Todd English has just upped-the-ante! "Kingfish Hall," in the touristy Market at Faneuil Hall is as good as it gets. If you've been to Faneuil Hall and are expecting the usual granite/brick walled, wood-beamed ceiling decor... forget it. David Rockwell and Adam Chihuly have created a sea-world fantasy of copper, gold-leaf, patterned cloth, colored glass, and water-walls! Better than Jaspar White's "Summer Shack", it rivals Legal's as being the best in town...and that really means something in Boston. Chef English takes the usual seafood menu and turns it upside down using spices, wines, vegetables, fruit garnishes and sauces, to create culinary wonders. He's a genius and the resulting meal is worth a trip to Boston. My appetizer was an Endive and Asparagus Salad with Crab Meat and Mustard Vinaigrette. My entree was Grilled Halibut with Eggplant, Ratatouille, Feta Cheese and Fig Garnish. Dessert was Vanilla Chocolate Bread Pudding with Caramel Sauce. English himself was in the restaurant tonight working the room, and when he got to our table, after chatting up the model business with my friends who are models, he told us that he's planning to open an "Olives" in Union Square in New York in November. When he left the table, we all said the same thing..."he's spreading himself too thin!" Let's hope not.

Those of you who live in Boston might be wondering why I never got around to eating at this restaurant that's been in the North End for over 35 years. Maybe I just had a premonition that it would be as bad as it turned out to be. Actually, the food wasn't bad...just ordinary. However, I'm sure that you've all had the experience of eating in a restaurant where the food was blah, and the room appeared to be an afterthought, but the overall dining experience was excellent because of your choice of dinner guest. That was the case last night. In spite of the ordinary food, I had a fine time because of my dinner companion, a fine bottle of Kendall-Jackson Sauvignon Blanc, and a fun, ditzy waitress. We shared a plain Antipasto as an appetizer, and I had Gorgonzola Tortellini with Pan-fried Mushrooms and Artichoke Hearts as an entree. We shared Spumoni and Tiramisu(ugh!) for dessert. The bread was delicious. With over a hundred restaurants to chose from in the North End, and most of them in the very- good- to- outstanding category, don't waste your night-out at Mother Anna's.

If you've been to the "Fire and Ice" restaurant in Harvard Square in Cambridge, then you pretty much know what to expect of this new, larger, more yuppy branch in the Back Bay in Boston. The concept remains the same: after you've been seated you go up to different stations, where you select one-inch chunks of various meats and fish(steak, lamb, veal, pork, turkey, scallops, shark, shrimp, lobster etc.) Then, you add vegetables, noodles, and one of a dozen or so sauces. Once you've created your entree "bowl," you take it up to the large central grill, where everything is grilled for you and then brought to your table. While you're waiting, you can go to the salad station and fill up on the salads of the evening. You can keep going back for more, until you're ready to explode. Your dish is as good, or as bad, as what you've created yourself! It's all lots of fun if you have a good group...and we did.

This review is for pizza lovers everywhere. Last night,we went over to the North End, and discovered a little hole in the wall on Salem Street(probably the ONLY place that serves Sicilian pizza in the North End.) This was a lucky discovery, because the Sicilian pizza at Ernesto's is easily the best Sicilian pizza in Boston, and probably the best Sicilian pizza that I've had ANYWHERE. The Neapolitan(round)pizza looked delicious too, with lots of toppings available(ricotta and pesto;roasted peppers and goat cheese,etc.) This is a real find; we'll be going back THERE often. Unfortunately, they don't deliver.

As often as restaurants come and go in the North End, they always seem to get better. Last year's brand-new "Lodo" is now this year's brand-new "Taranta." The cuisine is "cucina meridionale" which translates out to anything South of Naples! Lodo had excellent food, but the service was laughable. Our waitress notified us, "I'm a little slow wit youse because I'm under medication!!!" At Taranta, EVERYTHING is excellent. The decor remains unchanged on all three floors, except for large prints of Sicily and Calabria. All of the windows are still open to the street; a charming look. The food is first rate, as is the presentation, and especially the service. My friend and I shared an unusually generous Antipasto, and then I had a fine Fusilli with Goat Cheese, Artichokes, and Eggplant. Because there was a feast on in the streets, we left our dessert for outside at one of the many stands. We met friends, wandered through the streets to the sounds of Al Martino who was singing live at the central bandstand. (If you remember him, you're as old as I am. He was the singer in "The Godfather," who became a star when Don Corleone had the horse's head cut off and put in the producer's bed!) But, I digress. Dessert was homemade cannolis stuffed with the freshest of ricotta creams. Delicious!

The striking new restaurant in Boston's Financial District, weds the best of Tuscan food classics, with the cooking styles of Northern California. The result is often quite wonderful. Fresh Italian food products prepared and garnished with lots of fresh fruits, like pears, apples and especially figs, raspberries and blueberries. Caliterra in the new Wyndam Hotel is stunning in its decor, matching that of the hotel, with its Art Deco murals of agricultural village scenes and ceilinged frescoes and terrazzo floors...Mission Style meets WPA Art Deco! Service is impeccable and enjoyable, and the presentation is excellent. Our appetizers consisted of Eggplant Rollatini with Spinach, and Tomato Confit and Pan Seared Scallops with Vidalia Onions, Goat Cheese, Zucchini and Figs. We shared a Goat Cheese and Arugula Salad with Pine Nuts and more Figs. Entrees were, Cappellini with Pomodoro and Basil, and Rock Shrimp with Sun-dried Tomatoes, Mascarpone Cheese and Basil. The excellent desserts were Chocolate Bread Pudding with Chocolate Ice Cream, and a fine Cheese Tray...with more figs!. We chose a very in-your-face Sardinian White Wine to accompany the meal. Delicious!

If you're going to the Colonial Theater in Boston and you don't feel like walking far; you don't want to eat very much; and you don't want to spend a fortune, then hop right next door to Remington's. In a pub-like atmosphere, the food is fine, but not very imaginative, the wine list is OK, and you'll have a hard time spending more than $25! We shared a large plate of nachos with jalapenos(get the picture?) and then I had Maryland Crab Cakes with French Fries. My friend had Beef Barley Soup and then Chicken Kiev with Rice Pilaf. A decent glass of Pinot Grigio made it all seem much better than it actually was.

In the place formerly occupied by the once chic(now defunct) "Uva," is the new bistro and wine bar, "Atara." Beuautiful in decor, with an eclectic American menu, this place should do very well. Three of us enjoyed everything that we ordered, and the service was attentive. But the bread was stale! My appetizer was Artichoke and Goat Cheese Dip with Pita, and my entree was Veal Meatloaf with Broccoli Rabe and Garlic Mashed Potatoes. My wine was a Pinot Blanc. Sometimes a bathroom will tell you a great deal about a restaurant and those at "Atara" were beautifully designed, and very clean. When I start to describe the bathrooms in my restaurant review, it probably shows a lack of enthusiasm for something. Unfortunately I can't put my finger on what was bothering me about this lovely place. It wasn't the company; my friends who were dining with me were fine company. Could it have been the stale bread?

If you're taking a train out of Boston's Back Bay Station and you feel like a sandwich or an omelette, then you might want to cross the street to this new little restaurant and sidewalk cafe. Nothing is really out of the ordinary on the menu, but it certainly beats having to eat your meal on an Amtrak train!

Believe it or not, Bostonians, this IS my first visit to this centrally-located(in Copley Place)popular hang-out. I haven't been missing much! It's strictly generic American/Mexican food(quesadillas, fajitas,etc.,) not very well prepared. Everything tasted the same. Service is a joke. No need to return to this one.

It was just a year ago, that a man from Somerville, Mass.(my old neighborhood) bought a $5 scratch ticket from the Lottery , and ended up winning a million dollars. His dream was to open a restaurant in the North End, and "Limoncello" is the fulfillment of that dream. Isn't that a nice story? Luckily, he was able to find an excellent chef, and the end result is a wonderful new restaurant in the already over crowded North End. The food is excellent, as is the very personalized service and presentation. Many of the dishes are spiced up with the Italian cordial Limoncello, a delicious liqueur. As an appetizer, I had Seared Scallops with Limoncello and Baby Arugula. My entree was Massetto Pasta with Tomatoes, Prosciutto, and Crema di Limoncello, and Dessert was Tartufo di Limoncello. See what I mean? We had a delicious Vernaccia di San Gimignano(getting ready for the Tuscany trip!)as our wine, and we ended up guzzling a few glasses of the cordial, Limoncello. It's delicious! If this review sounds a little bit loopy, it's because I'm completely buzzed from the wine and the Limoncello!!! Our Roman waitress Cartuscia, was a definite addition to the overall enjoyment of the evening!!!

Yet another fine restaurant in the South End of Boston. This one in the space formerly occupied by The Blue Wave. The menu is American eclectic, and the decor is borderline lavish. We were in a bit of a rush, as we were heading off to see the musical "Copacabana," but no fear, we had plenty of time to enjoy an excellent three course dinner, washed down with a fine full-bodied Argentinian Cabernet Sauvignon. My appetizer was the usual Mozzarella, Tomatoes, and Arugula with Balsamic Vinegar. My friend Mike had Fried Calamari. My entree was Risotto with Mushrooms and Beets. Mike had Shreaded Veal with Garlic Mashed Potatoes. We shared an excellent English Trifle with Espresso and Sambuca.

Flash's is not a restaurant...it's a cocktail lounge. The kind of neighborhood hang-out where suits take their secretaries after work, with the hope of "scoring." We were misled into thinking that this new eatery in the Back Bay WAS a restaurant. So, we settled in, and ordered four of the nine tapas on the very-limited food menu. There were three of us, and we had the following tapas: A selection of artichoke and potato ragout, whole roasted garlic, roasted red peppers, frittata, grilled red onions and smoked eggplant(called "The Magnificent seven!;") the French brie on doughy brioche toast with an herb salad and pickled shallots, and a creamy tomato soup dip; Asian fish and chips with a wasabi tartar sauce; and shittake mushroom ravioli in a celery root puree. As entrees, two of us ordered the seared sea scallops with pumpkin risotto, and the third ordered chicken breast and some sort of dumplings. We washed it all down with a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon and one of Sauvignon Blanc...both from Chile. The wine was fine!

If you're in Boston visiting Northeastern University, or either of the two nearby museums(Museum of Fine Arts or the Gardner,) and you're looking for a good place to have breakfast, lunch, or dinner, look no further. Now that Stars has opened, you don't have to resort to either the expensive end of the neighborhood places(Ambrosia, Brasserie Jo, the Fine Arts,) or the cheap end(Dunkin' Donuts, Au Bon Pain.) Stars has a wholesome menu of American comfort foods(Meat Loaf, Swordfish, Pulled Chicken and Penne) and a surprisingly good wine list(heavy on the French and American wines.) I had a good Caesar Salad, and then, the Maple-glazed Meat Loaf. My friend Rob had the Caesar Salad as well, and then the Pulled Chicken and Penne. Big portions; both delicious. For dessert, we both had Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich...obscene! We had a fine bottle of Tuscan Vernaccia to accompany the meal. The decor and the service were both excellent.

I've been trying to get back to Somerville for months now to try the new restaurant "Buona Vita," so when we passed this restaurant in Arlington (the next town over) called "La Buona Vita," I just assumed that it was the same place and that the Boston Globe reviewer had made a mistake on the location. So we went in and had as good a meal as any that I've had in the North End. Everything was excellent including the service. It's a small unpretentious "mamma-papa" store. Mama and son wait on the tables, while papa Angelo does the cooking...and his cooking is incredible. P.S. It WAS the wrong restaurant...the other one IS in Somerville. But don't let that or the store-like appearance of the place stop you. As I said before, the food and service are exceptionally good. If you make the trip out to Arlington, don't miss Lakota Bakery. They have the best cookies that I've had ANYWHERE!!!

Arguably, the most difficult restaurant to get into in the South End of Boston, is the unbelievably popular Franklin Cafe. Having been told that the secret to getting in("no reservations accepted,"), is to get there promptly at 5:30pm when it opens, we did, and it worked, although we got the next to the last table. Is it worth the hassle? Absolutely. It's a charming and romantic candle-lit room, with a knowledgeable, attentive and attractive wait-staff, and most importantly, excellent food. As an appetizer, I had Ribbolita...the famous bread, potato and bean soup of Tuscany. My entree was Turkey Meat Loaf with Fig Gravy and Spiced Mashed Potatoes. Our wine was a delicious, hearty Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cafe has no dessert, so we walked down the street to the Garden of Eden where we had really fine mousse and camomille tea. The South End is really turning into a gourmets paradise, with almost as many restaurants as the Italian North End. The difference here is that the restaurants serve a VARIETY of ethnic cuisines...from French to Vietnamese. Most are excellent.

Just what Boston's North End needs...another Italian restaurant! Fortunately, the food at Bacco, is as good as anything you'll get anywhere else in the North End. Excellent appetizers, pastas, and entrees. What I didn't like, was the fact that, in spite of its choice location at the crossroads of Salem and Parmenter Streets, this two-storied restaurant closes off its main dining room upstairs from Sunday to Thursday, leaving diners, like us, to eat in the bar area, where people can smoke. Luckily, there was no one in the bar, so we didn't have to deal with the smoke element. As I said before, the food was excellent, but there are no desserts, forcing you to go to one of the North End's many pastry/cafes to end off your meal. We went to the Modern, the best in the area.

Without meaning to do so, I'm afraid that many of my restaurant reviews sound boringly similar, unless the restaurants are outstandingly bad, or outstandingly good. Prezza certainly falls into the latter category. This new North End restaurant features the foods of the Abruzzi region of Italy, and it stands apart from its neighbors in both its look, its sounds, and its tastes. Looks: the decor is elegantly minimalist (an oxymoron?) in shades of tan and deep brown, with mahogany wood accents and tastefully framed black and white photographs of Italian scenes on the walls. Sounds: the music of a female cabaret singer singing the more obscure(but beautiful) songs of Gershwin, Arlen, Porter, etc. comes out of the sound system (no Andrea Bocelli here!) Tastes: Ah, the tastes! At our table, the appetizers ranged from Straciatella with escarole, egg,. pecorino cheese and meatballs(mine,) to Wood grilled squid and octopus with braised white beans and toasted parsley, and Spicy Mussels in a tomato-fennel stew over chorizo polenta. Our entrees were Pumpkin tortelli tossed with brown butter and sage; Roasted Duck with crispy risotto cake stuffed with gorgonzola and pears and sauternes glaze. We all had the same dessert...Banana Ice Cream and almond gratin torte in a grappa and fig sauce. Our wine was a fine Sangiovese. The service was excellent. Cost: about $70 person.

What a difference between last night's restaurant, "Prezza," and tonight's restaurant, "Buona Vita." The only thing that they have in common is the fact that both of the owners come from the Abruzzi region of Italy. But there the similarity ends. Buona Vita is a small store-front place in Somerville, that looks more like a sub shop than a fine dining establishment. Decor is pleasant, but definitely not of the linen and china variety. Service is, at best, well-intentioned. Which brings us to the food, and here's where Buona Vita earns its growing reputation. Mamma Lidia DiPietrantonio does all the cooking, and everything is fresh and homemade and comes in huge portions. I haven't tasted such delicious Arancini (rise balls stuffed with meat and mozzarella) outside of Brooklyn! All of the red-sauce dishes that we had were huge and delicious. My Manicotti Fra Diavolo was HOT!!! They don't have a liquor license so there was no wine. It's sort of like "The Little Engine That Could." Trying SOOOOO hard! I hope that the students at Tufts discover it, and that it fills up all of its 19 seats every night.

With the North End, the South End and Somerville, inundated with restaurants, where else is the Boston restaurateur to go except for the adventurous environment of a neighborhood like Central Square in Cambridge, with its Third World grittiness? Centro will probably usher in a whole batch of chic new upscale restaurants in the area...it is just that good. Chef/owner Rene Michelena calls it a trattoria. I would call it the best new Italian restaurant to open in Boston/Cambridge this year! With understated, but beautiful decor, excellent, knowledgeable wait-staff, and best of all, some of the finest Italian alta cucina in town, Centro is destined for glory. My friend Joy and I ordered the Broccoli rabe salad with lemon and wheat beans, for our Appetizer. (This came with Tuscan bread spread with anchovy paste.) Her Entree was a giant Pork Chop stuffed with Escarole with Cauliflower gratin. I went for the Garlic Gnocchi with Roasted Mozzarella and Marinara Sauce. My dessert was a Lemon pound cake with Thyme-scented Mascarpone. Joy had Toasted "Ravioli" stuffed with figs, apricots, and oranges. Our wine was a delicious Banfi from Tuscany. This one's a find!

What's in a name? What used to be "La Bettola" one of my favoritre South End restaurants, has now become the ultra-chic SouthEnd Galleria...same management, different name and chef. We went to the SouthEnd Galleria on the last night of the "Heart of Puglia in Boston" festival, when we were able to take advantage of some of the incredible dishes created by visiting Pugliese chef Salvatore Bufi For an appetizer I had the Veal Meatballs with Caramelized Vegetables, and my friend Ben and I shared a Salad of Greens with Mustard Vinaigrette. For an entree, I had the Risotto with Shallots; Ben had the Veal Chop with Triple-Cheese Polenta. My Dessert was Tuscan Gelati with Biscotti. Ben had the Almond Mousse with Gelati and Chocolate Sauce. Our wine was a Chianti Classico Riserva. Rita, the maitress d'/owner was intrigued by, either my bald head or my charming personality(!!!) In any case, she plied us with programs of the Puglia Festival, Menus, and complimentary Limoncellos at the bar! Needless to say, I was quite intoxicated by the flattery as well as the alcohol! Did I mention that the ambience is as charming as it was when it was "La Bettola?" I'm a sucker for the look of "walls as ruins." The place is overbooked, so make your reservations early...and carefully! I hope that this review makes sense, because I'm wasted!!

When chef/owner Stan Frankenthaler moved his Salamander from its former location in Cambridge on the banks of the Charles, to the stunning new Trinity Place condos on Copley Square, he brought with him his Asian-Fusion menu, and a reputation for impeccable service. The menu still consists of dishes with Asian ingredients prepared in a European/American way.The decor however, is a comtemporary take on an Asian motif, with lots of walnut woods in the floors and chairs, and copper and zinc on the tables. Very beautiful, in a sort of Hollywood/Asian way! The food is still as good as ever, and the service is even better. My appetizer was an Albacore Tuna Salad with Marinated Fancy Radishes and Cucumbers all Topped with Sashimi of Scallops. My entree was Potato Stuffed Samosas served with Braised Escarole, Mango Chutney and Puree of Lentils. My dessert was Sorbet of Passion Fruit, Mango, and Orange Champagne. Our wine was a Verdiccio from Tuscany. I can't quite tell you why I'm not giving it 5-Stars, except to say that everything except the service, fell just a little bit short of the mark. I'm probably being unfair, because I left my umbrella there, and had to go all the way back to get it! So, I'm punishing the restaurant!!!

Pigalle bills itself as a "bistro" but that's certainly a misnomer. What it is is a very up-scale Parisian-style French restaurant(read,"expensive") where presentation takes precedence over portion size. This new theater-district restaurant, in the place formerly occupied by the fine Greek restaurant Omonia, is done up to look like a men's club in Britain; all dark woods and fine china, etc. The food is generally excellent, although most of the portions could hardly be called anything more than attractive! I had a Tuna Nicoise as an appetizer, and it was nothing more than a few chunks of tuna, two hard-boiled eggs and some delicious bacon. I just made that sound awful, but in fact, it was delicious. It just wasn't the large bowl of Tuna Nicoise that I expected. My entree was Seared Scallops with "something wonderful" in the middle(!) Again, it was delicious. For dessert I had Profiteroles. They were excellent. Our wine was a fruity Beaujolais (not "Nouveau" but excellent nevertheless.) The meal was excellent. The service was expert. The decor was understated. A fine addition to the sparse theater-district dining scene.

I can't believe that it's taken me so long to get over to the Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues in Cambridge. I've had dinner there, but never the Gospel Brunch. In any case, it's great fun, if the gospel group performing is a good one, and ours was(Jessica Hampton and the Heavenly Angels!) The male singer Phil Green, and the back-up band were also very good. They got the people on their feet, waving their arms and screaming "Halleleulah." What more could you want? How about a great Cajun Brunch? There's plenty of good down-home food(fried chicken, roasted potatoes, corn bread, collard greens, cajun frittata, carved roast beef, scrambled eggs, catfish, bread pudding, french toast, watermelon, etc.) It's all-you-can-eat so bring a big appetite. We did, and got stuffed!

Have the restaurants of Boston's Italian North End always been divided into two distinct categories, or have I just noticed that fact since I started writing these reviews? In any case, there are the dozens of restaurants that have been around "forever," and then there are those that seem to change management yearly. Prior to Christmas, "Lucca" was "Il Bacio!" Il Bacio was a fine restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere and a noisy bar area. Lucca is a fine restaurant with an upscale atmosphere and a subdued reduced-in-size bar area. It's a distinct improvement. If you're looking for a more trattoria/bistro experience, sit on the street level, with its ceiling-to-floor windows open to the street...(perfect for a warm summer night.) Downstairs, the atmosphere is elegant and European with rough granite walls and tapestries. The food and service(with waiters dressed in "South Beach black") at both levels is excellent. At our table we had Tuscan Bean Soup with Vegetables and Bruschetta, and Potato and Wild Mushroom Lasagna as appetizers, Pappardelle and Ground Veal Bolognese with Red Wine and Smoked Tomatoes, and Bisteca Fiorentina as entrees, and Flourless Chocolate Cake with Maple-Walnut Gelato and Cappuccino as desserts. Our wine was one of Francis Ford Coppola's Napa Valley Cabernet Francs. A lively new addition to the North End scene; let's hope that it stays around long enough to join the "been-around-forever" category!

Boston probably has more seafood restaurants, per capita, than any other city in the world...and now there's another one! What, you might ask, does the Portland-based "McCormick and Schmick's" have, that others don't have? Just about all of our seafood restaurants serve fish right out of the water, so what does this one have to offer that's different? For one, its six or so rooms are lavishly decorated in an Art Deco/Mission/Frank Lloyd Wright style that even tops Todd English's "Kingfish Hall." Secondly, the seafood menu is one of the most extensive that I've ever seen, and the freshness of the fish is attested to by the fact that the menu is printed twice a day, to keep up with the catch. Thirdly, the portions are huge; easily enough to be shared by two normal people. Last, but not least by any means, the wait-staff is polite, nice, and knowledgable. I had Coquille St.Jacques for an appetizer (it was large enough to be an entree,) Parmesan-crusted Dover Sole with Lemon Caper Butter, Asparagus Spears, Carrots, and Garlic Mashed Potatos as my entree (it was large enough for two entrees,) and Strawberry Shortcake for dessert (easily enough for two.) Our wine was a Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay; not MY choice, but it was very good. The restaurant is in Boston's theater district, in the Park Plaza "triangle" formed by Maggiano's, Fleming's Steak House, and McCormick and Schmick's....."The Cholesterol Triangle!"

After the theater, we revisited an old "friend" in the South End...the restaurant Appetito. Since this is not my first time eating there, and I've already written a review of this long-established South End landmark, I can only say that it's better than ever, possibly due to the new chef in the kitchen, and the expanded bar-area. Service and food are even better than before. Give it a return shot and see what I'm talking about.

In the very-desirable Newbury Street location recently vacated by the French bistro "Chanterelle," we now have the lovely Italian restaurant "Piattini." When it comes to ordering the appetizers or "piattini"(little plates!) this restaurant takes its name literally. Although all of the piattini are delicious, we had to order five of them and one salad for three of us (tapas style ). My appetizer was Tortellini with Spinach and Goat Cheese. The others were Crabcakes, and Pepper Stuffed with Spinach and Mozzarella. I chose a Risotto with Spring Vegetables and Parmesan as my entree. One of my friends selected Lobster Ravioli; the other Veal Scallopini with Potatoes. Everything was delicious. For dessert we had Milanese Profiteroles and Tiramisu. The excellent wine was an Anselmi from the Veneto. Although service and decor were as good as could be desired (I loved the copper-topped tables,) I'm withholding the fifth star because the bread, albeit Italian, tasted like white Tastee Bread! Even a fairly good, although somewhat bland olive oil, couldn't make it taste like it should have tasted. Give me a good Tuscan bread anyday. A good meal made much better than it actually was, by the excellent company. Who said good friends can't make a good meal taste like an excellent meal?

First of all you should know that I much prefer a plate of pasta, or a good fish, to red meat of any kind. Having said that, follow me now back to "the Cholesterol Triangle" at Park Plaza, for a visit to the well-respected (albeit a chain restaurant) steak house called Fleming's. The decor is men's-club-wood, with leather banquettes and well-spaced tables. Not unattractive, but generic. Appetizers come in family-sized portions; we had Spinach and Artichoke Fondue with Spiced Pita Chips, and Mozzarrella and Tomato Salad. Our entrees were 8oz.- cuts of Filet Mignon with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Sauteed Mushrooms. For dessert I had a Mixed Berry Cobbler With Vanilla Bean Ice Cream. Our wine was a Francis Coppola Chardonnay. Although everything that we ordered tasted good, it wasn't exceptional...just good. We came away from the table feeling so bloated, that even a one-mile walk home didn't relieve the over-stuffed feeling. In fact, as I'm writing this review, if I weren't in such good health, I'd probably have a heart attack right now, and fall over dead on my computer keys!!!

It's always a pleasure, and usually a surprise, when a restaurant that's been over-hyped and critically praised, lives up to that praise; Oleanna does that, and more. What is basically just two stores and a garden in Cambridge, has been magically transformed into a beautifully designed dining room, bar and romantic garden, in a style reminiscent of a Meditteranean villa, with traces of the Middle East thrown in. More importantly however, the service, and especially the food, match the beautiful decor. I went with Sue and Joy, two of my friends from the gym, and on a weekday night, the place was packed. Our appetizers were Fried Mussels & Peppers with Turkish Tarator Sauce, Grilled Asparagus with Lentil Vinaigrette & Fried Goat Cheese, and Ricotta & Bread Dumplings with Porcini and Braised Lettuce. My entree was Broiled Baby Sole with Raki, Crab & Eggplant Souffle. The dessert, which had to be ordered at the beginning of the meal, was Orange Cardemon Gelato with warm Chocolate Hazelnut Torte. My wine was a Pinot Grigio from Venice. Although the portions were not large, we were stuffed at the end of the meal! Reservations are a must at any time of the week, and the menu changes fairly often. Because of the beauty of the rooms and garden, as well as the delicious food, I would recommend saving this place for a special occasion. It WILL be special.

This cheerful little "fonda" of a Mexican cafe, (in my old neighborhood in Somerville,) is modeled on the homestyle restaurants established in 18th Century Mexico, and is as colorful as a zocalo in a small village in any province of this wonderful country. The food featured on the menu is not of the "Tex-Mex" variety, but is more authentic...there are no chips and salsa on the table! Our appetizers were "Sopes"(deep fried corn flour dough topped with beans, anejo cheese, onions, and zuccini.) My entree was Camarones Mocambo(jumbo grilled shrimp in bay leaves, garlic, and guajillo peppers...hot, hot, hot!!!) These were served with a thick (and delicious) Black Bean Soup, and Mexican Spiced Rice. Our dessert was a wonderful homemade Flan, made by the 85-year-old mother of the owner's sister-in-law!!! We washed down all of these HOT dishes with an unusual White Sangria with Oranges. A nice, offbeat change of pace...but don't make a habit of it, if you still have your gall bladder!!!

On a beautiful late Spring evening, a stroll along the waterfront in Boston, is a perfect way to work up an appetite for dinner at one of the many restaurants along the shore. After drinks outdoors at the Intrigue Cafe, we went to Margo Bistro, the Men's Club- style bistro in the new Harborside Inn. Elegant in a simple way, with its mahogany wood panels, and original granite columns (from its days as a waterfront warehouse) and hanging Italian lamps, this is a beautiful addition to the waterfront dining scene.The menu is extensive and eclectic.For an appetizer, I had Warm Salad of Sea Scallops and Jerusalem Artichokes with a Lemon-Butter Vinaigrette, Radicchio, and Lamb's Lettuce; for an entree, Asparagus and Porcini Mushroom Ravioli in a Light Sweet Pea Cream with Truffle and Parmigiano, and for dessert, a delicious Blueberry Brioche Bread Pudding with Creme l'Anglaise and Blueberry Coulis. Our wine was a nice Beaujolais. Everything was presented beautifully, and was cooked perfectly. Service was friendly but unobtrusive. The only negative was that the bread was frozen, so some was too cold, and some too hot! After a day of shopping or sightseeing at Faneuil Hall, the Waterfront, or the Aquarium, this would be a perfect place to treat yourself to a well-deserved, and elegant dinner. Don't bring the kids!!!

"Tapas" are hors d'oeuvres or appetizers that are served in restaurants all over Spain, called tapas bars. These tapas bars have become very trendy in places like Columbus Avenue in New York, and now Newbury Street in Boston. Sister to the well-established and popular Dali in Somerville, Tapeo is authentic in its decor and Sevillana music. When ordering, the diner can either order a single appetizer and entree as my friend Chris did (Shrimp, Chicken, Lobster and Littlenecks in a saffron, tomato, nut, wine and chocolate sauce as his entree,) or cover the table with lots of little plates of single-dish appetizers and entrees, as my friend Mike and I did. My appetizers(tapas frias) were Anchovies and Black Olives on Tomato Toast, and Garlic Potatoes. My entrees(tapas calientes) were Chicken Croquettes, Baked Goat Cheese with Tomato & Basil, and Artichokes in Saffron Batter. We had a couple of pitchers of Sangria to accompany the tapas. Although the company was excellent and we had lots of fun, all of the food began to taste the same after a while. Too much sangria, perhaps? We walked down the block for some Oreo ice cream at Emack & Bolio's for dessert...and lots of people watching (eye candy) on Newbury Street!

Chef/Owner Rob La Grassa's new restaurant Eclipse has an incredible history...one that could only be found in Boston. In 1848 it was the site of Washington Hall, home to the Boston Whig Club, where Abraham Lincoln gave impassioned speeches condemning slavery. Several years later the building became the Boston Aquarial Gardens, the first public aquarium in the world! Today it it is a beautiful restaurant with walls of soft yellow and eggplant accents. The banquetts are covered in purple and gold, and pewter chandeliers hang above the tables. Chef La Grassa is the third generation of chefs in his family and his food and presentation show the excellence of this experience. I had a perfect Caesar Salad as an appetizer, and as my entree, a Dover Sole in Lemon Butter with Basmatti Rice and Seasonal Vegetables. My dessert was a Panna Cotta with Fresh Sliced Strawberries. Our wine was a delicious fruity Pinot Grigio. I'm withholding one star, because the service was spotty,(we had to ask for more bread and water, and there was no ice bucket for our wine) even though we were the only people in the restaurant!

When you come from a seafood town like Boston, it's hard to find a better seafood restaurant than what we have at home. Aside from the picturesque location, on an upper deck overlooking the beach and the harbor, there was nothing terribly unusual about this place. My Caesar Salad and Crab Cakes were good, or was it just the two Mudslides that I had with them? (3-Stars)

It's not hard to kill a few hours in between lunch and dinner, but you do tend to gawk and eavesdrop a lot on the incredible colorful scene all around you. We walked around Commercial Street (the beachfront main street of P-town, and stopped every now and then to sit and stare! Then it was time for dinner.

This one WAS a surprise. Although I had heard a lot about Front Street, I never expected the level of excellence that we found. We walked on a garden path, and down a few steps, into a below-street-level beautifully designed romantic hideaway, where we were seated and given menus that could have been prepared in a fine Boston or New York restaurant...Meditteranean high cuisine at its finest. It's a good thing that we were told to get reservations a week in advance, because the place was packed by 6:30pm. My appetizer was a delicious Eggplant Involtini and my entree was an Asparagus Tortelloni; I couldn't finish it!

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "Mantra"
Just when I thought that the restaurant scene in Boston had reached a level of perfection that would satisfy the most discriminating gourmet in any
comparable city in the world, along comes a new restaurant that puts it one notch higher. That restaurant is the almost indescribable "Mantra." Just one
block away from the new Millennium "city-within-a city," (the new Ritz Carlton on the Common, the 19-megaplex Boston Common theaters, the two glass
condo towers, the L.A. Sports Complex,) "Mantra" was built into the beautiful Old Colony Bank. The designers integrated the former bank's grand
architectural features into a Phillippe Starck- South Beach kind of bizarre opulence. If you're in the neighborhood, drop in for a drink at the
over-the-top bar, and just gawk! The Iranian chefs prepare a cuisine that isa fusion of French and Indian and it is completely wonderful. Appetizers like
my Braised Scallops with Pandemum Chips and Crisp Cabbage and my entree of Grilled Halibut over Jerusalem Artichokes in aYogurt/Wine Sauce were cooked to perfection and served on plates that looked like works of art. The chef gives out "amuses-bouches" (samples of other menu items) at every course, so you get to taste more than what you order. Our meal was accompanied by a magnificent Montrachet Burgundy. The service by a wait-staff in elegant brown designer Nehru suits was perfection. We had five people serving us! I could go on forever in praise of "Mantra." Instead, I think that I'll just go back. Oh, by the way, it costs a fortune!!!
(5-Stars)
Nick

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "BERKSHIRE GRILL" at the Prudential Center
Think "The Ground Round," "Applebee's" and "Charlie-O's," and you'll have a fairly clear idea of what you might expect at the attractive new restaurant at the Prudential Center. What you might not expect is the sheer incompetence of the service, specifically, our waiter Boris. Let me back up a bit. As I said, the decor is very pretty, the menu tries to accomodate all tastes, and the presentation of the food is fine. However, my friend Anthony had to send back his Grilled Salmon, which was so undercooked, that it could have passed for sushi!
Now about Boris. Our waiter came to our table, and told us that he would eventually get around to waiting on us because he had a big group "over there" that was taking all his time. Then after taking our order, as he mumbled inappropriate and unintentionally funny remarks, he brought us the wrong bottle of wine. Each time he did, or said, something wrong, he called the manager over to placate us. There was the undercooked salmon, and then finally the bill was presented, on which he charged us for TWO bottles of wine, instead of one. He mumbled some more, called the manager over again, and then left us in order to assault another unsuspecting group of diners. All in all, a disastrous, albeit a very funny, dining experience. Go for the laughs and ask for Boris!!
(1-Star)
Nick

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "LES ZYGOMATES"
"Les Zygomates" are the muscles in your face that make you smile. There is plenty to smile about in this excellent restaurant that bills itself simply as "a French wine bar & bistro," but which in reality, is one of the finest restaurants in Boston, or anywhere else for that matter. (It has a sister restaurant in Paris.) It's hidden on a virtually deserted quiet street in the South Station area, but as soon as you enter the front doors, you enter a beautifully and artistically designed series of rooms...warm, inviting and elegant. Chef Ian Just and General Manager Lorenzo Savona met in Boston while working at St. Cloud, and then both were drawn to Paris to attend the prestigious Ecole Superieure de Cuisine Francais. When they returned in 1994 they opened Les Zygomates which has since been gaining international recognition for its food, wine, ambience and decor. Reservations are almost impossible to come by and unfortunately, it took an impending war to make it relatively easy to get in! My appetizer was a Warm Goat Cheese Salad with Mesclun and Arugula. For an entree I had Tomato, Eggplant, Roast Red Pepper and Ricotta Timbale and my dessert was a Spiced Gingerbread with Mascarpone Ice Cream. Our wine was an excellent dry Semillon Bordeaux.
(5-Stars)
Nick

DINNER/NIGHTCLUB REVIEW- "THE RACK"
When one goes to a nightclub to DINE, rather than just to eat, one shouldn't be surprised if the food isn't the equal of what it would be in one of our finer restaurants. The surprise then, is that the food wasn't all that bad. "The Rack" is a nightclub, where students, sports figures, and other local celebs, go to shoot pool at the dozens of pool tables, listen to live rock music, and yes, to dance with and pick up women! How successful the black-clad studs were in picking up the cute-young-things in their sexy outfits, was hard to tell, because we were too busy eating! The Rack is huge, and only a very small area in the front is devoted to "dining." The menu is fairly extensive, with appetizers, salads, pastas, meat and seafood. I had a Casear Salad as an appetizer. It tasted like a plain salad of lettuce, some cheese and croutons. My entree was Lobster Ravioli, and that was pretty good. I pigged-out with dessert, having TWO desserts...Chocolate Cake AND Cheese Cake. Our wine was a California Cabernet Sauvignon. Our waitress was a charmer. She was a pretty short-skirted young thing, who made us feel as though we were the only customers that she cared about...that's good! Once the music started at 9pm, talk was impossible...but people don't go there to talk...OR to eat.!!!
(3-Stars)
Nick

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "TODD ENGLISH'S RUSTIC KITCHEN" (not TODD ENGLISH'S anymore)
When chef/owner/TV celebrity Todd English opens uo a new restaurant (and he's opened two, in Boston, in this one month,) it's always an occasion for a celebration, or at least a visit. So, we headed over to the Fanueil Hall Marketplace where his restaurant named "Todd English's Rustic Kitchen" has just opened, right opposite his excellent seafood restaurant, "Kingfish Hall." The decor is "European Countryside" centered around a huge open-hearth stone oven. The menu follows suit. My appetizer was Parma Prosciutto with Buffalo Mozzarella and Fresh Basil and my entree was Truffle Ricotta Tortelloni with Brown Butter Sage. Dessert was a delicious Triple Chocolate Cake. Our wine was a red Malbec from Argentina, and a white Orvieto; both were excellent. I didn't give the restaurant a 5-Star rating because I had two major complaints. The most serious one is that the restaurant has no restrooms; diners have to leave the restaurant and use the public restrooms at Fanueil Hall; isn't that illegal? The second had to do with a surly, unsmiling assistant to our waiter, who brought out our entrees while we were still eating our appetizers. I hate that! She didn't have a clue what she did wrong, and when I told her, she ignored me.However, when I told our excellent waiter, he was very apologetic.
(4-Stars)
Nick

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "Porcini's"
It's a good thing that I know my friend Jesse, who invited me out to dinner at Porcini's, because the restaurant is in the kind of deserted neighborhood where the Soprano family would take someone to knock him off. Once I knew that I wasn't targeted for a hit, I sat back, relaxed and enjoyed both the atmosphere, the menu and presentation, and the excellent food in this out-of-the-way fine restaurant in Watertown. The portions are so huge (and I'm so stuffed,) that I'm actually rushing to get through this review so that I can crash into bed. The decor is reminiscent of tavernas in Italy, with a nice big fire going in the fireplace. The menu was not your usual red-sauce-and-checkered-tablecloth fare. I had a Baked Pistachio-encrusted Goat Cheese Salad served over Mesclun Greens in a Raspberry Vinaigrette with Pear & Cranberry Chutney as my appetizer. My entree was Potato Gnocchi Sauteed with Spinach, Fresh Tomatoes, Shiitake Mushrooms and Garlic in a Light Pesto Cream. Dessert was a Bread Pudding with Blueberries. My wine was a california Cabernet Sauvignon.Then you wonder why I'm stuffed?
(5-Stars)
Nick

MEZZE BISTRO & BAR- This upscale Meditteranean restaurant serves gourmet international dishes in a setting that can't be beat. We ate out on a terrace above the beautiful Green River. I had a Watercress & Arugula Nicoise Salad with Goat Cheese Croutons as my appetizer, and Black Pepper Ravioli with Roasted Garlic, Grape Tomatoes, and Guajillo Broth. My dessert was a Chocolate Souffle Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream. (5-Stars)

MAIN STREET CAFE- As good as the Mezze was, this was even better! If you didn't know the high quality of the fine food here in Williamstown, you would have been shocked at the excellence of our dishes. I had one of the best Mozzarella in Carroza that I've ever had as my appetizer, and Charcoal Grilled Sea Scallops with Fresh Tomatoes over Linguini, as my appetizer. Sorbet of Plum, Grapefruit, and Peach for dessert. (5-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "TORCH"
Beacon Hill is one of the most charming and beautiful, historic neighborhoods in America, and the new French restaurant, "Torch," is a welcome addition to the neighborhood. In appearance, this small bistro would not be out of place in either the 5th or 6th arrondisements on the Left Bank of Paris. The copper wainscotting, burgundy walls, and candles on shelves create an intimate, but elegant, atmosphere. Chef/Owner Evan Deluty does the rest, and what he does is wonderful. The food is excellent, as is the service and the presentation. From a menu of tempting choices, I selected as my appetizer, an Endive Salad with Chevre and Sherry Walnut Vinaigrette. My entree was Monkfish with White Bean Ragout and Balsamic Brown Butter Sauce. For dessert I had Assorted Sorbet and we had a tray of Cheeses for the table. Our wines were a Cabernet Sauvignon and a Sauvignon Blanc. I can understand why Julia Child said, "Torch won my heart."
(5-Star)
Nick

How many restaurants can Todd English open before he starts to lose his high standards? Judging from the latest one, an endless number! "Bonfire" is Todd English's steak house with a South American flair. Occupying a cavernous space in the Park Plaza Hotel in Boston's Theatre District, the restaurant is a carnivores delight...and adventurous diners won't be disappointed either. Although the dress code is "casually elegant," the decor is SUMPTUOUSLY elegant, with its burgundy vaulted ceilings and walls, wrought-iron and glass chandeliers, and high-backed tapestry chairs. My appetizer was a Mexican-style Caesar salad. My entree was a 14oz Salmon Steak with Gorgonzola Sauce. Dessert was a White Chocolate Chunk Gingerbread Pudding with Ginger Ice Cream and Gingerbread Men. Our wine was an Argentinian White. If your city has a branch of Todd English's "Olives" or "Figs," skip them, because as with the original Filene's Basement, they don't transfer well. I've eaten at the "Olives" in New York and in Vegas, and although they're fine restaurants, they don't compare to the original up here. Wait until your next trip to Boston, and then try any of his five restaurants: "Olives"(Meditteranean,) "Figs"(pizzeria/bistro,) "Kingfish Hall" (seafood,) "Rustic Kitchen" (country French,) and lastly, "Bonfire" ( South American steakhouse.) He's become a gustatory DisneyWorld!

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "LOCKE-OBER"
When I first moved to Boston, 35 years ago, the then 110-year-old Locke-Ober was the finest restaurant in Boston. Since then it has been riding on its laurels and it soon began to show signs of aging. This year, the venerable old place was bought by restaurateur Lydia Shire ("Biba,") who promised to restore it to its former glory. That's where we found it tonight. Although she maintained virtually the same famous menu as before, she hired noted chef Jaky Robert, of the Robert family of chefs ("Maison Robert") to prepare the dishes. The Gilded Age decor remains intact. We dined in the former Mens' Club, with its ambience of 19th Century London...stained glass windows, carved mahogany, hand-painted ceilings, brass-studded leather and the magnificent gleaming silver and polished brass. The Boston Brahmins were announcing that they were a force to be reckoned with in 1875. When Charles Dickens, a regular customer when he was in town, ate here he must have felt right at home. Service is impeccable and the food is perfection. My appetizer was Escargots Bourgouigonne and my entree was a perfect Dover Sole Meuniere with Broccoli Rabe and Hot Pepper. Although I miss the Sultana Roll from "back in the day," the Indian Pudding was as good as any in town...and that's saying a lot. To accompany our meal, we selected a Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon. If you do go to this historic meeting place of the Beacon Hill "subtly rich," be prepared to spend about $100 per person. It's worth every penny!
(5-Stars)
Nick

Wouldn't it be nice if every upscale, expensive restaurant did what Tremont 647 and Sister Sorel did? Read on. Last year, owners Andy and Gretchen Husbands knocked through a wall of their famous South End restaurant Tremont 647, and into a former art gallery to open the new cafe, "Sister Sorel"...named for Andy Husband's older sister...and since then it's been packed every night. The two restaurants share the same kitchen and the same chef, only Sister Sorel offers fewer meals (only six entrees each night,) and it's casual and reasonably priced. It only seats 20 people, the decor is brick-wall-candlelit -Spartan, and the service is sporadic, but oh, the food is so good; comfort food (burgers, chicken, shrimps,) cooked in a gourmet-French style. I had a delicious Goat Cheese Fondue for my appetizer, an Eggplant and Ricotta Pizzetta as my entree, and a Banana Boston Cream Pie for my dessert. The breads in the bread-basket were especially delicious. Our wines were a Pinot Gris and a Sauvignon St. Bris.

"Back in the day" I used to drive out to Brookline at least once a month to what was then a hole in the wall restaurant called "The Village Catch," to take friends out for delicious seafood, prepared in an Italian way. Now, almost 20 years after my last visit there, I took a group of young friends back to a greatly expanded, but basically the same, restaurant, now called "The Village Fish." I'm happy to report that it's still the same excellent place! There's less emphasis now on pastas than there used to be, and more on the seafood. For an appetizer, I shared a large order of Calamari Fritte and Caesar Salad with Anchovies. One of my friends ordered Clams al la Marinara and I dipped into his delicious sauce. The fresh breads are excellent. For an entree, I had one of the best Scrods that I've ever had. It's all in the freshness of the fish, and the seasoning of the breadcrumbs! Our desserts were Chocolate and Vanilla Tartuffi. Our wine was a Shiraz from Australia. If you do go to this fine place, don't forget to ask for Pete, the waiter. He's a friend of mine, and one of the main reasons that we went out to Brookline for seafood!

People who live in the Boston area will find it hard to believe that I've never been to Bob the Chef''s...that 50-year-old bastion of traditional southern cooking in the heart of Roxbury...Boston's Harlem. Well, it was worth the wait .Everything about this place says two words, "class" and "homemade." The ambience is that of a jazz cafe, which it becomes later on in the evening. The wait staff is knowledgeable and friendly. But, regulars come here for one thing...the food. This is where you come for barbecued ribs, glorified chicken, homemade meatloaf, black-eyed peas, collard greens, etc. I had the Homemade Meatloaf, with Baked Macaroni and Cheese and Homemade Mashed Potatoes as my entree. It was heaven...and I'm a meatloaf "freak." My dessert was Gramma's Apple Pie a la Mode. Our wine was an Australian Shiraz. Even though we didn't order appetizers (we saw that the entree platters were huge,) the four of us left the table stuffed. All of this, and the place is very reasonable.

Because I knew that "Abe & Louie's" was part of a national chain of steak houses, I didn't give it much thought...or a visit, until now. Boston has so many excellent steak houses (e.g., "Grill 23 and Bar," "Todd English's Bonfire," "Capitol Grille," "Morton's," "The Palm," etc.) that its easy for another place for carnivores, to get lost in the shuffle. That's what happened to "Fleming's Steak House"...a good, but uninteresting place. However, "Abe & Louie's" is a different story. This restaurant can hold its own with the best of them. It's a truly fine place for prime cuts of meat. The decor is elegant and beautiful. It has a very "men's club" look, with dark wood paneling, bronze chandeliers, leather chairs and faux Remington statuary. The service is first-rate. The menu is quite extensive, and the food is as good as it gets for a steak house. My appetizer was Beefsteak Tomatoes with Blue Cheese and Vidalia Onions. My entree was Shrimp and Scallop Louie. I know, I know, "who goes to a steakhouse for seafood?" I DID sample the house specialty Bone-in Filet Mignon, and the Filet au Poivre...both were excellent. Our wine was an excellent Sangiovese. Be warned however, it IS quite expensive. More in the "Morton's" category than the "Flemings" category!

Troquet (slang for a small wine cafe,) although new on the Boston restaurant scene (it opened in October,) had gourmets and wine connoisseurs salivating with great expectations, because of the impeccable credentials of its owners and its chef. Owners Chris and Diane Campbell formerly owned "Uva," the ultra-sophisticated wine palace in Brighton, and Chef Scott Hebert came from Veritas, the equally famous wine restaurant in New York. So, with this background, it's not surprising that the emphasis is on the pairing of the 44 wines with the classically French-prepared food choices on the menu. My appetizer was a Seared Sea Scallop with Piquille Peppers, Cod and Potatoes and Parsley Puree. My entree was Potato Gnocchi with Braised Mushrooms, Oven Dried Grapes and Black Truffle Oil.We ordered the cheese tray, because the Campbells were always known for the variety of their " fabulous cheeses." They didn't disappoint! I tasted a liquidy Soumatain. Incredible! Normally I would have the cheese in place of dessert, but renowned pastry chef Natalia Andalo is "in residence" at "Troquet," so we went for the dessert as well. Her Chocolate Fondant Cake with Coffee Ice Cream was sinful. Our wine was a Domaine du Caillou, Cote du Rhone. Boston's Theater District now has a new restaurant to match the renaissance of its theater scene. Bon chance to both!

When the L.A. Sports Club opened in Boston last year, a "well-placed" friend gave me a membership. I went to this marble-and-brass palace just once, because I detested the poseurs and voyeurs who spent a small fortune to "work out" there. So it was with great reluctance that I decided to dine at the restaurant, "blu," in this Sports Club. Because it's owned by Jody Adams and Michela Larson ("Rialto") who originally trained under the legendary Julia Child, I expected the food to be well-cooked, and well-presented. Chef Dante de Magistris excels in both areas. The eclectic menu includes not only high-gourmet items but comfort foods as well. (One wouldn't expect the latter in this Peter Niemitz-designed minimalist black, white, and glass environment. Huge two-story high windows overlook the Downtown Crossing area of Boston. EVERYTHING is color-coordinated, even the salt and pepper-shakers!) Now to the food. My appetizer was a "Cremini & Zucchini:"an Arugula, Zucchini, Mushroom and Reggiano-Parmigiano Salad. My entree was Roast Gratin Maine Grey Sole with Olive Oil Potatoes and Pesto. Dessert was a Chestnut Bread Pudding with Jicama Ice Cream. Our wine was a delicious Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc. We also ordered the Cheese Tray for the table. Everything was excellent...but very pricey!

The main dining room at the stately Fairmont Copley Plaza used to be known as the Cafe Plaza, but now it's called the Oak Room. Under any name, it's still the most beautiful dining room/restaurant in all of Boston. The Edwardian decor of rich oak woods, high carved ceilings, and tapestried banquettes and curtains, makes for an atmosphere that simply can't be matched anywhere else in town. The service was always a bit sketchy (and still is,) but the food could never be faulted. The emphasis in the newly re-opened (and renamed) Oak Room has switched to prime-aged steaks and chops. In fact Boston Magazine has voted it the Best Steak House in Boston. Nevertheless, I chose Stuffed and Baked Shrimp and Scallops as my entree. My appetizer was a Grilled Eggplant, Buffalo Mozzarella and Tomato Tart, followed by a Caesar Salad. For dessert, I had a delicious Boston Cream Pie with White Chocolate Shavings. Our wine was a Orvieto Classico. Oh, and yes, my friends said that their Prime Ribs of Beef were excellent.

La Bella Vista is your typical, mediocre, red-sauce Italian, with nothing on the menu to distinguish it from a million other places just like this all over the country. But this is the North End of Boston after all, and one expects better. The service was delivered with a frown, and the decor was enough to keep the makers of plastic artificial flowers in business for years. My appetizer of Pasta e Fagioli wasn't as good as what Progresso puts in their cans, and my entree of Ziti all' Arrabiata was only slightly better. The Pinot Grigio (which was overpriced,) made everything taste much better than it really was. The best thing about this meal was that I was eating it in the company of two wonderful friends, who were kind enough to invite me to dinner.

The Parish Cafe is one of those Back Bay eating establishments/institutions that is dependent on the good weather for business because of its beautiful sidewalk cafe on Boylston Street. I suspect that there are some people who even go there just to be seen, rather than for the wonderful sandwiches served there. Let me reassure you that we went for the sandwiches. Each sandwich has been created by a Boston celebrity chef (Julia Child, Lydia Shire, Todd English, Jody Adams, etc.) and bears the distinct trademarks of the individual chef. Although Todd English' sandwich sounded intriguing, I opted for Vinicio Paoli's (Toscana restaurant) Buffalo Mozzarella, Tomato, and Arugula, Focaccia Sandwich, on a Bed of White Beans and Herb Vinaigrette. It was absolutely delicious. The fact that the cafe was very crowded may have accounted for the service being sluggish.

Anyone who knows me, knows how much I distrust the word "diversity" whether in group dynamics, or in the cuisine of a restaurant, whose menu consists of a too-wide variety of items such as steaks, seafood, pasta, tacos and quesadillas, and Vietnamese summer rolls! "Bring the whole gang, and each member can eat a food from a different country." I seem to have just described the fare at The Cheesecake Factory, a branch of which has just opened a block away from me, below the new bamboo-garden at the Prudential Center. In spite of my preference for restaurants where the chefs limit themselves to a specific cuisine, the food sampled at our table was very good. My appetizer was a (huge) Caesar salad. My entree was Penne with Eggplant, Peppers, Pine nuts, Kalamata Olives and Sun-Dried Tomatoes (ordered as a test!) My dessert, of course, was a cheesecake: "the Original."(very, very creamy.) Our wine was a Sauvignon Blanc. The decor was typical Cheesecake Factory...faux Egyptian! In fact, the Boston Lyric Opera could probably stage the entire first act of Verdi's "Aida" in the rear dining room. Just a warning to the thrifty: in spite of the cutesy, frivolous menu, the prices are quite serious. All in all, however, it was quite an enjoyable dining experience.....thanks in large part, to my guests.

The Beacon Hill Hotel is the kind of small hotel that one would find on the Left Bank in Paris, in the 5th or 6th Arrondisement, and its restaurant, the Beacon Hill Bistro, would be perfectly at home in either of those districts. Raised mahogany paneling, banquette seating, mosaic tile flooring, etched glass, discrete mirrors and a large fireplace, help to create a refined and comfortable bistro environment on Charles Street in Beacon Hill. Chef Al Soto (formerly of La Grenouille and Bouley,) has created a menu of understated elegance that matches the ambience. My appetizer was a Zucchini Salad with Chevre, Arugula, and Mimolette. My entree was a Strozzopretti Pasta with English Peas, Tomatoes, and Truffles. My dessert was a Chocolate Mousse Torte. The wine that we ordered was a Cabernet Sauvignon. Our waiter was everything that a waiter should be, and more. All in all, it was like dining in Paris without the danger of terrorists.

The Charles Hotel in Cambridge is lucky enough to have two fine restaurants. Its premier restaurant, of course, is Jody Adams 5-Star "Rialto." But its second restaurant, "Henrietta's Table," has nothing to be ashamed of. Stepping in off the second-floor lobby, you enter an atmosphere of a New England General Store, with food products spilling off the shelves of antique sideboards, cupboards, and buffets. There are olive oils, jams, mustards, candies, and fresh fruits, etc. On a beautiful Spring day, as today was, the entire room is open to the tables set outdoors on the terrace, (called Henrietta's Porch!) We went for a "power brunch," and the food certainly packed a wallop. I had an appetizer of Field Greens Vinaigrette, and my entree was an Asparagus and Provolone Omelette with Red Bliss Potatoes. Service was first-rate. No dessert, thank you. I wonder if it's as good for dinner. (Although we did end our day at the bar there, enjoying a Strawberry Banana Smoothie as the cool breezes flowed in from the Charles River.)

Tremont 647 is one of those 5-Star restaurants in the South End that caters to a flamboyant and bohemian clientele at its "pajama brunch," and a rather upscale crowd in the evening. Having dined there years ago and enjoyed the evening meal immensely, I decided to try the Sunday brunch. First off, yes, people do actually come there wearing what appear to be their pajamas, and the entire wait-staff does the same. But in spite of the funky dress, the food is taken very seriously. I had "Two Stinky Cheeses" as an appetizer; (basically an exotic cheese tray with toasted garlic breads.) For my entree I had Scrambled Eggs with New Bliss Potatoes and Fruit Salad. My drink was a Mimosa; I used to like them. Still an excellent restaurant...for dinner , or for brunch.

Nestled on the flats of Beacon Hill, just off Londonesque Charles Street, is one of the most elegant and romantic fine-dining spots in all of Boston. Open only 4 years, this charming restaurant has already developed a word-of-mouth reputation as being one of the best all-around dining experiences in town. From the street, there's nothing but a black canopy and two bow windows to mark the entrance. But once you enter the darkened interior, design, class, style and ambience announce that you've entered a special place. Service is professional and abundant; the menu is excellent; and the cooking and presentation of the food couldn't be bettered. For starters, I had Marinated Smoked Salmon with Cucumber Dill Salad. My salad was a Caesar with White Anchovies. My entree was Divers Sea Scallops and Shrimp with Sweet Pea Ravioli in a Plum Tomato Vodka Sauce. For dessert we had Chocolate Bread Pudding with French Vanilla Ice Cream and Strawberries. Our wine was a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. If you're in the mood for 5-Star Contemporary American Cuisine served in style, in a beautiful, romantic setting, this is your place. But make sure that you've got enough of a balance on your credit card. This is not Burger King!

People have often asked me why my web-site doesn't include reviews of some of the best restaurants in Boston (or New York for that matter.) The simple explanation is that I dined in them years ago, BEFORE I started this crazy hobby of reviewing things. So allow me to list what, in my opinion, are the Twenty Best Restaurants in Boston. They're in no special order.

AUJOURD 'HUI
L' ESPALIER
OLIVES
HAMERSLEY'S BISTRO
JULIEN
RADIUS
PREZZA
OAK ROOM
RIALTO
MISTRAL
CLIO
MAMMA MARIA
LOCKE-OBER
BRISTOL LOUNGE
ICARUS
NO. 9 PARK
MANTRA
TERRAMIA
TROQUET
GRILL 23 & BAR

Boston's hottest new watering hole is too crowded, too noisy, and too pretentious. Dozens of people were clamoring to get in; we were clamoring to get out!

Dramatic elegance; that's what "Spire" is all about. From the Philippe Starck-like white and black design of this contemporary restaurant and bar, to the excellence of chef Jeffrey Everts cooking and the food's presentation, to the Rosenthal china on which it's served, to the thoroughly professional and knowledgeable wait-staff that serves it. Dramatic elegance. Nine Zero is the latest of the many luxury hotels that are popping up all over town, and up a flight of dazzling bright stairs on the second-floor of the hotel is "Spire," the hotel's restaurant. Once you're settled into your padded white seats, walk around and take a look at the place; it's a masterpiece of modern design, from its black bamboo hardwood floors, to the blue-curtained tall windows overlooking the Old Granary Burying Ground, to the dazzling restrooms which invite you to linger longer than you should! The room's only color is in beautiful floral and fruit arrangements in the entry and bar areas, and in the glass art-work on the walls. Oh yes, the food. My appetizer was a Tomato, Goat Cheese and Spinach Salad. An amuse-bouche was a Cold Green-Pea and Truffle Soup. My entree was a Sea Snapper with Orange Slices, Sliced Potatoes and Balsamic Reduction. For dessert, we chose the Warm Chocolate Cake, with Cherry Mascarpone Ice Cream. Another amuse-bouche consisted of Six Homemade Candies. Our wine was a delicious Pouilly-Fume. We didn't want to leave.

Is it possible for the service at a restaurant to be so excellent that it overshadows even beautifully prepared and presented food? That was the case last night at "The Vault." Our waitress (even the word sounds too insignificant for this professional) was as good as it gets. Was it those beautiful eyes or her self-assurance? In any case, to the restaurant itself. Chef Rene Michelena, formerly of La Bettola in the South End, and Centro in Cambridge, has, with his partner Brian O'Neill created "The Vault" in the financial district, and turned it into a happening place. The ambience is that of a wood-paneled and heavily curtained bar, and our table in front of the fireplace in the rear put us far enough away from the live jazz combo, to enjoy it. My appetizer was a perfectly prepared Caesar Salad. My entree was Pan-Seared Scallops over Corn Risotta with Peeled Tomatoes. I selected the Cheese Tray for dessert. Our wine was a fine Domaine du Traillol French red. A fine dining experience, but why didn't we get that waitress' name?

Perched high on a rocky cliff, overlooking the entire crescent of Nantasket Beach and the Atlantic Ocean, sits the beautiful and charming new French restaurant Le Calypso. To the side of the attractive white restaurant is a large garden, filled with tables with umbrellas, and sharing the same incredible view as the restaurant and the open-air deck above. Even if the food were dreadful (it's not,) this would be a perfectly romantic place to spend a hot summer evening. As it was, we were there today, on a Sunday for lunch. The menu is filled with the dishes of the Brittany, Normandy and Provence areas of France. Unfortunately, although my Salade Nicoise was delicious, it was not the famous salad of Nice. The ingredients in this salad were tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, anchovies, hard-boiled egg, olives, and red lettuce. What was left out was the main ingredient of a true Salade Nicoise...tuna! Our drinks were Strawberry Daiquiris. I just can't wait to go back on a hot night, to have dinner in the torch-lit garden and watch the waves crashing on the beach below.

Nestled at the end of Stanhope Street in the South End, with a hedge-enclosed front patio that makes it look like one of those "tucked-into-an-alleyway" restaurants that are found in every European city, is the trendy new restaurant/lounge/cigar bar called "33." With a striking interior decor that makes it look as though Ian Schrager redesigned a Faneuil Hall brick-and-wood place, the look is one of relaxed chic. The walls are exposed brick; the ceiling is sculptured slats of polished wood, but the most striking feature of the room is the long double bar that runs the length of the entire room, and is covered in panels of glass that change colors throughout the night. Down a flight of lighted glass stairs is the mercifully closed-off cigar-bar (cough!) and the very stylish restrooms. Chef Charles Draghi has created a novel menu (and cuisine.) One side of the menu consists of French dishes, and the other side is Italian. This follows through to the extensive wine list. My appetizer (from the Italian side,) was a Bruschetta of Tomato, Buffalo Mozzarella, and Basil on two large slabs of Tuscan Bread. From the French side, I chose my entree of A Dozen Escargots in Garlic Butter. My dessert was an Orange/Mint Sorbet with Nectarine Ice-Cream. Our wine was a Vernaccia di San Gimignano (delicious.) Right now, the crowd is an unfortunate mix of Eurotrash and Brookline. Wait a few weeks until the normal people start going!

Because "Via Matta" has taken the place formerly occupied by one of my favorite Italian restaurants in Boston, Lydia Shire's fine "Pignoli," I was prepared to dislike the new restaurant before I even set foot in it. That feeling went right out the window when I stepped into "Via Matta." The neighborhood outside is quite upscale, with the restaurant wedged into the space between the Four Seasons and the Park Plaza hotels. Its patio is atmospheric with white tables, umbrellas, and tiny lights in the trees. This atmosphere is carried into the restaurant, whose ambience is quite beautiful. I just found out that the new owners are the owners (and former chef) of the still-trendy "Radius." That explains the presence of all of the beautiful people who filled the place last night. Everything about "Via Matta" is first class... from its look, to the impeccable service, to the presentation and preparation of the "alta cucina" dishes on its Florentine-leaning menu. My appetizer was a mouth-watering Buffalo Mozzarella with Yellow Pepper Mostarda. (The bread was some of the most delicious Tuscan bread that I've ever had outside of Italy.) My entree was a Wood Grilled Salmon with Zucchini and Capers. Dessert was Three Traditional Semi-Freddi (Gelati): Notella, Praline, and Chocolate Crunch. Once again, our wine was a perfect Vernaccia di San Gimignano. I take back what I said at the beginning of this review. "Via Matta" far outshines "Pignoli" in every way. But make sure that you bring lots of money!

The latest addition to the bustling North End dining scene, is so cozy and intimate, that it turns away more people than it lets in. There are only 30 seats...so make your reservations early. Nestled away in charming North Square, just two doors down from Paul Revere's house, "Carmen" looks like your typical mama/papa neighborhood restaurant, and in many ways it is. It's casual, informal and unpretentious in decor. But wait until you take a look at the menu that chef Bill Bradley has whipped up. Formerly of the wonderful "Bricco," just around the corner, (and the Napa Valley before that,) Bradley is creating dishes that sound exciting on paper, look beautiful on the plate, and taste like heaven! Our appetizers were Tiny Plates of Crostini with Pesto, Sundried Tomatos, and White Beans with Garlic; Marinated Olives, and Roasted Peppers with Mozzarella and Basil. My entree was Roasted Penne en Papillotte, with Ligurian Meatballs, Mascarpone Cheese and Tomato Sauce. No dessert; too stuffed! My wine was a Montepulciano from Tuscany. Our eyes were bigger than our stomachs tonight!

If you're in Boston's Back Bay/Fenway area, and the question is: "where do I go to get an inexpensive all-you-can-eat buffet of delicious Japanese food?" then the answer has to be Arirang House. Just down the block and across the street from where I live, is this clean, atmospheric, authentic Japanese restaurant, where the charming and helpful proprietors have set out an extensive buffet of a wide variety of Japanese foods, ranging from soups and rice, through seafood, beef, pork, and chicken to accompanying vegetables, potatoes, noodles, and finally to cold salads and fruit slices. Everything is fresh, and presented appetizingly. When you've eaten to the point of excess (!) and the bill is presented, you'll be shocked to see that it comes to $8.50, including tip! Now, that's a deal.

What happens when a city tears down the ugly elevated train tracks that used to darken the inner city streets below...just two blocks from Boston's most fashionable neighborhood, the South End? In a word, gentrification. The gays move in, the street gets widened into a beautiful new boulevard, a new "T" line...the Silver Line is installed, the Cathedral of the Holy Cross emerges from the shadows as Boston's major Catholic church, and restaurants sprout up from one end of Washington Street to another. The newest, and arguably the best of these, is the chic Caffe Umbra, in the shadow ("umbra") of the magnificent cathedral. Chef/owner Laura Brennan, formerly the sous chef at Boston's finest restaurant, L'Espalier, has created a beautiful ambience and a menu to match it. The brick walls are nice and through big windows in the front, there's a good view across the street of the imposing Cathedral. Our waiter was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. As far as the food goes...my appetizer was Stacked Mozzarella and Tri-Colored Tomatoes, with Fresh Figs and Arugula. My entree was Fresh Herbed Pappardelle with Zucchini Basil Pesto, Mascarpone and Green Beans. My dessert was Two Tuscan Inspired Sorbets: Peach Prosecco and Blackberry Sangiovese...with Milk Chocolate "Cigars." Our wine was a Red Burgundy from Provence.

Picture a stone terrace, with a ceiling so high that it doesn't seem to be there. On this terrace are scattered beautifully set tables, and off to the side, a pianist is playing Gershwin. Facing the terrace is a magnificent European garden, complete with fountains, statuary, well-manicured lawns and hedges. When it gets dark, and the statues and fountains are spot-lit, the effect is magical...you've been transported to Europe, and you know that "you're not in Kansas anymore." This is the new Fraser Garden Court Terrace restaurant at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts. The menu is small, and changes every evening. My appetizer was an incredibly delicious, and filling, Smoked Salmon Pizzetta with Arugula, Chevre, and Heirloom Tomatoes. My entree was an order of Pan Seared Scallops over Wild Lettuce, Shaved Fennel, Asparagus, and Cherry Tomatoes. All entrees come with a bowl of beautifully prepared Japanese Noodles lightly tossed with Small Tomatoes. Our dessert was the Dessert Sampler, with one of each of the following: A Small Profiterole with Chocolate Sauce, a Banana Ice Cream Cone, a Strawberry Tart, a Flourless Chocolate Cake, and I forgot the fifth dessert! Our wine was a full-bodied Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Although the Fine Arts restaurant is still the premiere restaurant at the Museum, the magnificent Fraser Garden Court Terrace would be MY choice when you're dining on a summer evening.

I had heard that the new pizzeria in town is as good as our best neighborhood pizza joints (Canastaro's, Newbury Pizza, and Sorento's.) It's not!

Back again to the newly refurbished and gentrified Washington Street, this time to check out "Gallia" on Lower Washington overlooking Blackstone Square. With its corner location on the Square, the owner was wise enough to feature big windows so that the outside view becomes an integral part of the mustardy-yellow, green,and purple decoration of this simple restaurant. Because the chef is Stefano Zimei, formerly of The Federalist and Harvest, we were expecting exceptional French-based cuisine...and we got it. My appetizer was Potato Gnocchi with Asparagus and Pancetta Sauce. My entree was Black Pearl Salmon with Spinach, Picholine Olives and Fennel Hearts. The chef sent over an amuse-bouche of Yellowfin Ahi with Anchovy Aioli. We saved room for desserts because the pastry chef is Alex Ricciuti who used to create those unusual concoctions over at Todd English's "Kingfish Hall." He does the same here. I had a sinful Milk Chocolate Pot du Creme with Star Cookies. Our wine was a Sangiovese. Before closing this review, I must say a word about the service. Our waiter was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, as was everyone at the restaurant, including the owner Cindy Eid, who came over several times to chat. It's her first time as a restaurant owner. She shouldn't have any problems here!

In the case of some restaurants, they announce their presence by assaulting your nose with the aromas of their cooking long before you get to the front door. In the case of "Nightingale" you can SEE it from afar long before you arrive, because of the bright lime green of its walls showing through the all-glass front windows. However, once inside, the loud-colored walls covered with large bold prints become a very pleasant background for two comfortable rooms. The fine wait-staff takes control as soon as you enter the room, and we were ushered to a large table for four, even though we were only two people. The menu is one of those which, although not extensive in nature, is filled with such wonderful items, that it's hard to choose. But choose we did. My appetizer was Heirloom Tomatoes with Diced Mozzarella and Arugula. My entree was a Grilled Cod Loin over Spinach and Olive Brandade with Balsamic Vinegar. My dessert was a Chocolate Cheesecake. Our wine was a delicious, but potent, Sangiovese! In a neighborhood already crowded with fine restaurants (the South End,) "Nightingale" is a welcome addition, not only for its colorful presence on the block, but because its prices are not in the stratospheric league of some of its neighbors on the block, such as "Hammersley's Bistro," "Metropolis," and "Truc."

Tucked away in the out-of-the-way "Leather District" down around South Station is a new place that most people know as a trendy late-night club. But in addition, it's also a beautiful restaurant served by an inventive chef who's filled with innovative ideas for exciting dishes. The room has a dramatic look as you enter and pass a copper-covered bar and proceed into the main dining room with exposed brick walls and an enormous crystal chandelier. In the corner, is a candle-filled fireplace. But, we came for the food...and it was wonderful. Before our appetizers, the chef presented us with an amuse-bouche of Mesclun, Apple, and Goat Cheese Salad. My appetizer was then a Simple Pizza of Oven-Roasted Tomatoes, Buffalo Mozzarella, Torn Basil and Parmesan. Then another amuse-bouche of Tuna Tartar with Crispy Wonton Chips. My entree was an Oven-roasted Chilean Sea Bass with Sweet Lobster Risotto. My dessert was a Coconut Cream Pie. We sampled both the Pinot Grigio and the Cabernet Sauvignon for our wines. We were sent Flutes of Champagne, complimernts of the chef. I don't know why. To say that we left completely stuffed would be an understatement!

Last month, with great fanfare, the multi-million-dollar Mary Baker Eddy Library opened at the Christian Science Center, just across the street from my apartment. What did not receive as much publicity as the newly refurbished Mapparium and the interactive galleries, was the new Cafe at the Library tucked away inside, beyond the Court of Ideas! So, we decided to try it out for lunch today. Although beautifully color-coordinated, with Ian Schrager-like furnishings and marble-floor decorations, the overall effect is attractively sterile and under-decorated, in spite of the fact that the walls are painted to look like the inside of the great Pyramid at Giza! I kept thinking that I was in the lounge of a beautiful airport terminal, waiting for my plane to be announced. The menu was quite extensive for a luncheon menu, and it featured many autumn items. My lunch consisted of a Half-Sandwich of Grilled Vegetables with Pesto Goat Cheese, and a Butternut Squash Soup. We shared a plate of Freshly Baked Cookies. Everything was delicious and quite filling. The service was polite, cheerful, and courteous. After all, this IS the Christian Science Center.

If you know Bukowski's at all, you probably know it as that weird little beer place perched over the Mass. Turnpike, where you need about 18 kinds of ID to get in if you look underage, and where the bar menu features about 100 exotic beers, ales, and lagers. What most people don't know, is that they also feature a special every weekday night until 8pm, and that's a very respectable burger or hot dog for only $1. If you don't add anything to it (cheese, fries, etc. all cost $1 each extra,) you can get away with a dinner of a burger and a large hot dog for only $2. Hell, that's cheaper than McDonald's...and much tastier. Three of us had three cheese burgers with fries, three hot dogs, and three drinks, and the tab was only $21.00. It would have been much cheaper if we had eliminated the cheese and the fries. But, what the hell...we were splurging!

The venerable grande dame of Boston hotels, the "old" Ritz-Carlton, has reopened, after a two-year restoration period, in which it was restored to its former grandeur. (I never saw it as anything less than grand!) Part of this elaborate process was to return "the grandest dining room in all of New England" to its former glory. They've done their job well. Like a first-class dining room on an old ocean liner, the second floor Dining Room still overlooks the Public Garden, and has retained those magnificent Waterford chandeliers and the Cobalt Blue water goblets. The menu has changed slightly with more of an emphasis on French-Continental cuisine. My appetizer was a Lobster Caesar Salad followed by the chef's amuse-bouche of a Potato Leek Soup with Truffles. My entree was a Dover Sole. A before-dessert amuse-bouche of Creme Caramel was followed by a dessert of Triple Sorbet and Triple Ice Cream Degustation. Our wine was a Napa Sauvignon Blanc.So, even if you're not having dinner in the Dining Room, or high tea in the Tea Lounge, drop in to see this wonderful old place. Its new sister hotel, The Ritz-Carlton on the Common, on the other side of the Common, is all 21st Century opulence. But, if you're looking for the 19th Century in all of its elegance and heavy tradition, then this is the place for you. If you're lucky enough to be staying there, ask for a room with a wood-burning fireplace. Hell, why not. You only live once!

It's always difficult to have to review a restaurant that's owned by a friend (or a relative of a friend.) In this case, the relatively new French restaurant "Brioche," in the town of Wellesley, is owned by the brother of my friend Antonio. Not to worry...the restaurant is wonderful. On the ground floor of what appears to be an apartment building on the "main drag" in Wellesley, one enters, and then, the hurried atmosphere of the street changes to one of soft music, darkened lights, lowered ceilings, and tactfully-spaced tables. Paintings-for-sale adorn the walls. We were waited on by an incredibly efficient and friendly wait-staff. At one time or another during the meal, we must have met all of them. After all, we were with the chef/owner's "baby brother." Although it was difficult to chose from the extensive menu, I selected Shrimp Limoncello as my appetizer, Pan-Seared Sea Scallops with Lemon Risotto and Asparagus as my entree, and a Chocolate/Grand Marnier Souffle as my dessert. Our wine was a Veneto Pinot Grigio. Presentation was superb, and everything was delicious. A welcome addition to the meager culinary pickings in wealthy Wellesley!

Boston, America's seafood capital, has a multitude of seafood restaurants, ranging from the no-frills, inexpensive variety ("Naked Fish,") to the elaborate, ultra-gourmet, fish-palaces (Todd English's "Kingfish Hall.") "Azure" definitely falls into the latter category. In the space formerly occupied by "Anago" in the newly-renovated Lenox Hotel, "Azure" is simple in its decor, but elaborate in everything else. The choices on the menu range all over the seafood world, from New England to the Pacific, with preparation appearing to lean in the French direction. Service is impeccable. In fact, each of us felt the need to compliment the wait-staff throughout the meal. After an amuse-bouche of Crab-meat and Mozzarella on a crispy Crustini, my appetizer was a Salad of Oak-Leaf Lettuce, wrapped in Cucumber Slices with a delicious Champagne Vinaigrette. My entree was a Roasted Scottish Salmon over a bed of Mashed White Beans, with Whole Potatoes. My dessert was a Mixed Sorbet of Chocolate and Coffee Cinnamon. Our wines were a White Pinot Grigio and a Red Chianti Classico. Old friends from New York, as well as new friends from Massachusetts pronounced "Azure" an amazing success. I certainly agree.

When chef/owner Jamie Mammano ("Mistral") bought the site formerly occupied by Barbara Lynch's "Galleria Italiana," he did some research and discovered that it was originally a synagogue. Knowing how ornamental some synagogues can be, he decided to remove the former restaurant's dropped ceiling and, in the process, uncovered the beautiful vaulted painted ceiling, now the focal point of this trendy new restaurant. If you like to be where "it's happening," go now while the place is hot. It's wait-staff is young, attractive, and even more surprisingly, knowledgeable about the food and wine on the menu. My appetizer was an Arugula Salad with Parmigiano Shavings. My entree was a Filet of Swordfish with Lemon Butter/Caper Sauce, Fresh Asparagus, and A Roasted Potato Cake. My dessert was an Assortment of Sorbetti. Our wine was a delicious Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Although all of the food that I ordered looked good on the plate, most of it tasted bland and ordinary. The salad dressing was non-existent (thank goodness for the parmigiano shavings,) and, although it's virtually impossible to render capers tasteless, the lemon butter/caper sauce was just that...tasteless. The other food at our table (Classic Caesar Salads and Steaks) seemed to be met with greater success than was mine, although our perky waitress was almost proud to announce that "there are no anchovies in the Classic Caesar Salad," thereby making it neither "Classic," nor "Caesar!" Oh well, there's always that beautiful ceiling and, for now, the beautiful people under it!

Several years ago, noted chef and restaurateur Jaspar White, returned from a self-enforced exile in Europe, and shocked the restaurant world by opening, not a small gourmet restaurant, but rather, a huge family-style Cape Cod-like barn of a seafood joint. This now-famous Cambridge landmark proved to be so successful, that White opened a branch at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut, and now a new scaled-down version in the former Cheri Theatre complex. (This former movie complex has become Kings, an upscale billiards-hall, bowling alley and cocktail lounge...and seafood restaurant.) This smaller version of the original, operates differently. Instead of having a waiter or waitress take your order, you fill out an order form, checking items on a menu. Then you take it up to the order window, and when your number is called, you pick up your order at the pick-up window. It's reminiscent of some places on the Cape and out on Long Island. I prefer to be waited on. (The wait-staff only takes your drinks order.) All of this makes for a very loud, confusing, and rushed meal. However, the food is still excellent...gourmet food, served in a fast-food setting. My appetizer was a Grilled Eggplant and Onions with Feta Cheese and Cherry Tomato Vinaigrette. My entree was a perfectly Grilled Atlantic Salmon with Fresh Vegetables, Corn Bread and Mashed Potatoes. We ordered a Napa Valley Pinot Grigio for the table. (We went somewhere else for our Sorbet/ IceCream desserts!) A fun place if you're in a very casual mood...VERY casual!

It may have been the before-dinner drinks that we had at my place, or it may have been the restaurant itself, but whatever caused it, I kept asking myself at dinner, "Are we in Casablanca or is it Marrakech?" because it sure as hell didn't look like Cambridge! When you dine at "The Enormous Room" in Cambridge, you're buying into the notion that you're dining in Morocco with all that entails, because chef/owner Gary Strack, has recreated the experience of being in one of the more casual dining rooms at the luxurious Al-Mammounia in Marrakech. Next door to Central Square's "Central Kitchen ," one enters a door marked simply with an elephant stenciled on glass, climbs the stairs, and enters a room with exposed brick walls, on one side of which is a platform covered with Oriental rugs and large pillows, and on the other side are banquettes and chairs, clustered around long low tables. Get there early enough to choose the location that suits you (my suggestion is to go for the corner platform in the rear.) If you choose the rugs and pillows, kick off your shoes, put them in the cubby below the platform, and make yourself comfortable. The DJ in the wall behind you will be playing exotic music all evening. Your food will also be exotic. There are only two enormous plates on the menu. One consists of skewers of beef, salmon, chicken, and lamb, over grilled, roasted, marinated vegetables, with baba ganoush, hummus, olives, falafel, couscous, triangles of phyllo dough stuffed with spicy ground beef, etc. The other consists of only the vegetables. Everything is delicious. We ordered both, and devoured them. Our wines were a Sangiovese and a Pinot Blanc. Get a few good friends together, go early, stay late....it's an adventure!

When Harvard Square's beloved "Upstairs at the Pudding" was forced to relocate from its premises in Harvard's historic Hasty Pudding Club Theatre, it moved across the Square to what was once a prestigious social club, and reinvented itself as two dramatic dining rooms, each with star chefs. Downstairs, chef Susan Regis presides over the Monday Club Bar, a restaurant with a club atmosphere, two fireplaces, and a "non-threatening" gourmet menu. Upstairs is something completely different. The Soiree Room where we dined, is an elegant supper club, with hot pink walls and tablecloths, mirrored ceilings, and lighting sconces that could be art-nouveau objets d'art. As one critic said, it's "Moulin Rouge" meets "Alice in Wonderland!" Amanda Lydon is the chef in the Soiree Room and she has done herself proud. Her menu is eclectic and, judging from what we ordered, the food is beautifully prepared and presented. My appetizer was an Endive and Artichoke Salad with Red Wine Cream and Marcona Almonds. My entree was an order of Maine Sea Scallops with Chorizo, Piquillo Peppers, and Broccoli Rabe. My dessert was Grapefruit Sorbet with Citrus Salad. I had a delicious Vernaccia di San Gimignano to accompany my meal, and I wish that I could remember the exotic beer that my friend Pat had. Service was friendly, intelligent and unobtrusive. In spite of the fact that the room was filled to overflowing, one of the owners stopped by to inquire if we were enjoying our meal, as did the maitre d'. All in all, a beautiful high quality dining experience.

It almost seems as though there's always been a Davio's in Boston! In reality, owner Steve DiFilippo opened his first Davio's, the upstairs/downstairs restaurant/bistro on fashionable Newbury Street, just 18 years ago. Then, in 1990, he opened the Cambridge branch, with its beautiful terrace overlooking the Charles River. Now, when Paine Furniture moved out of its spacious showroom on Arlington Street last year, DiFilippo closed down the Newbury Street branch, and moved into this new space .It was a very smart move. It may not get the "Euro-trash" foot-traffic from Newbury Street, but it seems to be drawing a very eclectic crowd...and it has its own parking lot! The huge room itself is quite elegant, with its soaring ceiling and high fluted columns, its exposed kitchen filled with sous-chefs, and its beautifully curved mahogany bar. The "white-linen" atmosphere is conducive to fine dining. From the minute we walked in, the service was attentive and friendly. Our waiter was knowledgeable about the "alta-cucina" items on the elaborate pricey menu, and was quite friendly, even though he appeared to be serving four tables at once. Now, to the food. In a word, it's perfect. Preparation, presentation, and taste couldn't be bettered anywhere. My appetizer was a Spinach Salad, with Wood Roasted Peppers, Portobello Mushroom, Goat Cheese, Garlic, and Olive Oil. My entree was Pan Roasted Salmon, with Wild Mushroom Risotto, Chives, Smoked Pepper Oils and Citrus Sauce. My dessert was a Mango, Raspberry, and Lemon Sorbet with Biscotti.( From my friends dishes, I tasted a perfect Gnocchi, and a delicious Spaghetti with Shrimps, in an excellent Marinara Sauce.) Our wines were a Pinot Grigio, and a fine Tuscan Chianti Classico. A very welcome addition to the downtown restaurant scene.

Once upon a time, there was a fabulously elegant restaurant in Boston called Cafe Budapest. It's rooms were designed to create the experience of dining in imperial Hungary. When it closed, old Boston mourned its loss. When it reopened last year, as the impossible-to-get-in- without-a-connection "Saint," new Boston said "let's take a look." From the moment you walk down the flight of stairs onto a lit-from-below with-red-lights foyer, the look says New York nightclub or South Beach club, but NOT Back Bay Boston. The first room is an all white martini bar called "Threshold." The second room is aptly named the "Bordello," and includes the original ornate bar from Cafe Budapest. The room we dined in is the "Main Room" and it's a modern, beautifully designed cocktail lounge. If there's a negative about "Saint," and its probably the only one, it's the fact that you have to dine on low cocktail tables. There are no dining-height tables anywhere in "Saint." The chef is the formidable Rene Michelena (formerly of "La Bettola," "Centro," and "The Vault.") When he was gracious enough to come to our table and spend some time discussing his menu and his background, he told us that he was finally at a restaurant where he had full control over the kitchen and menu offerings. He's certainly done a fine job with both. My appetizer was a Zucchini and Crab Meatballs with Potato Gnocchi and Crab Bisque. My entree was a Baby Artichoke Risotto with Tarragon Pesto and Roasted Pepper Salad. Our dessert was a Tray of Six Desserts (Chocolate Souffle with Strawberries, Peach Cheesecake with Ginger and Molasses Crust, Blueberry and Apricot Cobbler, Mango Sorbet, etc.) to be shared. Did I say that there were only two of us??? Our wine was a delicious Sauvignon Blanc. Our waiter was extremely friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the fine, but very pricey, dining experience. A worthy addition to the sophisticated, elegant, and traditional Back Bay neighborhood.

When two of the giants of the Boston dining scene, Lydia Shire ("Biba," "Locke-Ober,") and Tim Lynch ("Grill 23 and Bar,") get together to create a new restaurant, it's not surprising when the result is nothing less than magnificent. Such is the case with their new venture, "Excelsior." In the space formerly occupied by Shire's now defunct "Biba," famed New York restaurant designer Adam Tihany has created a showplace in the Heritage-on-the-Common, overlooking the Public Garden. The ground floor of this two-story restaurant, is an open to the street (at least it is this Summer) dark-wood with red decorative touches, bar and cocktail lounge. The ascent up to the dining space is dramatic. You can either walk up the large curving staircase, or, as I would recommend, take the glass elevator which ascends up through the multi-tiered wine cellar. The room itself, like the lounge below, is all dark wood with red box-like chandeliers, and red-and-tan artwork on the walls. The windows down the entire front wall overlook the historic Public Garden. Although I usually hate being seated at a table along the wall, with only a foot separating the next tables from ours, our "table-neighbors" proved to be so charming and friendly, that a minus became a plus. The rest of the crowd last night consisted of the "Three-P group," (Prada, Porsche and Plastic-surgeoned!) My appetizer was a perfectly-dressed Warm Mozzarella and Crushed Artichoke Salad. My entree was a Charcoaled Wild King Salmon with Steamed Toy Sum. (The best salmon that I've had in ages, and I've become an expert in salmon lately!) We shared a delicious Cheese Tray, and we both had the same outrageous dessert...Sour Dough Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Fromage Blanc Ice Cream and Warm Chocolate Sauce. Our wine was a perfect Montepulciano Chianti Classico. We got to taste the food that was ordered by our table-neighbors, Kate and Ethan, as they did ours. (I said they were friendly!) Everything was cooked to perfection, and presented beautifully. Did I mention that the service was excellent as well? All in all, as fine a dining experience as one could hope to have.

Noted chef Daniel Bruce, the mastermind behind one of Boston's premiere Winter events, the Boston Wine Festival, has taken the Festival's idea of pairing fine wines with fine foods, and created a magnificent new restaurant in the elegant Boston Harbor Hotel. Through the hotel's beautiful lobby, up its grand staircase, and onto the second floor, with its expansive views of the sailing ships and yachts in Boston Harbor, we arrive at Meritage, designed to look like the primary restaurant on an expensive cruise ship. Shining hardwood floors covered in places with thick carpeting; marble, glass and brass fixtures; spider-webs of lighting that seem to have tumbled right through the ceiling; and bottles of every kind of wine imaginable, make up the striking contemporary design of Meritage. The menu is cleverly designed to match each food item with an appropriate wine...suggested by chef Bruce. In addition, every dish is available in either a small plate or a large plate...the latter being exactly twice the size (and price) of the former. The idea is to encourage sampling. My appetizer was a Black and White Shrimp Cannelloni with Saffron Cream and Sauteed Spinach. This was paired with a varietal of Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay. My entree was a Blackberry-glazed Wild Pacific Salmon with Vermont Fiddleheads and Shiraz Demi Glaze. This was paired with a robust Cabernet Sauvignon. The chef sent an amuse-bouche of Gazpacho with Truffles. We ordered the Cheese Tray of Humboldt Fog Goat, Fontina Cow, and Istara Sheep. Our dessert was a Chocolate Tasting Tray consisting of Dark Chocolate Tart with Creme-fraiche, a White Chocolate Cheesecake, and a Log of Butter Chocolate Mousse. All of this was served by an intelligent, attentive, and well-uniformed wait-staff. A very welcome addition to Boston's Waterfront, soon to be blessed with the 3-mile-long Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway Park, covering the infamous "Big Dig!"

It must have looked good on paper when the proposal was presented to Christopher Myers and Michael Schlow, the owners and chef of "Radius" and "Via Matta." Create a luxurious seafood restaurant for the new French Chateau-like hotel, the Commonwealth, being built on Kenmore Square. After agreeing to create the new restaurant, things started to fall apart on the hotel end. First off, when the scaffolding and shrouding (which had been in place during the entire time of the hotel's construction) was removed, the hotel looked less like a Chateau in the Loire Valley, than a motel in New Jersey! Then, Boston University decided to house 60 of its incoming Freshmen in the Hotel. That doesn't bode well for a hotel that aspires to 5-star status. To date, the hotel's facade has been "corrected" so that it more closely resembles a chateau. However, the students are still planning to move in in September! Now for the restaurant. The restaurant has all of the trappings of greatness about it: caring and famous owner and chef, understated ambience, excellent service, and incredibly good seafood chosen from a menu of items ranging from mainstream to rarities. Everything is there, except the customers! On a beautiful Saturday night, the restaurant was virtually empty! I was told that this is the case every night. Nevertheless, I enjoyed a fine meal. My appetizer was English Pea Soup with Morels, Brandade. My entree was a Line Caught Swordfish with Porcini, Wilted Arugula, Coriander and Walnut Oil. The chef sent an amuse-bouche of Barbecue Glazed Prawns. The wine was a Stag's Leap Cabernet Sauvignon. I ordered the Cheese Tray (Old Chatham Camembert, Putney Tomme, and Great Hill Bleu.) Delicious. In addition, my dessert was a Lemon Sorbet with Blood Orange Slices. Send in the customers! This place deserves a chance.

If it's a warm summer night (and there should still be a few more of those left,) and you're lucky enough to snag one of the couple of dozen tables on the roof-garden of this popular new restaurant in the North End, then you're in for a magical dining experience. Unfortunately, "Il Fiore" doesn't take reservations for its roof-garden (the only one in the North End,) so it all depends on how lucky you are when you get there. Go early; it's always very crowded. We were lucky. We only had to wait 15 minutes for a table up on the roof-garden. The party of 6 at the next table waited for 2 hours! In any case, roof-garden or not, this is a fine new addition to the already packed North End restaurant scene. A 500-seater, it makes its presence felt on Hanover Street, the North End's "Main Street." Everything is first class, from the people at the busy maitre d's desk, to the wait-staff, to the presentation and preparation of the food. My appetizer was a Mozzarella di Bufala. My entree was a Mustard- Seed-Encrusted Marinated Salmon, under a tower of Spinach and Sliced Mozzarella. My dessert was a White Mousse Cake. Our wine was a Pinot Grigio. Add to all of this, good company and you have, as I said before, a perfectly magical evening.

Chef/owner Tony Maws' "Craigie Street Bistro" is the equal of any of those dozens of little bistros that line the streets around the Boule'-Miche' in the 5th and 6th districts on the Left Bank of Paris...only it's more expensive. It's tucked away on one of those residential streets outside of Harvard Square, in the basement of an apartment building. Only an awning and a small sign announce its presence. So you really have to know where you're going to find it. But, once you're there, what a magnificent dining experience awaits you. The first thing that you notice, aside from the unpretentious decor, and the small number of tables, is the incredible knowledge of the wait-staff, as they begin to suggest wines and recommend dishes, before you've even been seated at your table! Our waiter was an encyclopedia of fine food. For an appetizer I had the Sweet Corn Soup with Green Tomato Tartare and Olive Oil Crouton. My entree was a Red-Chile-Marinated Hangar Steak with Roasted Bone Marrow, Forked Potatoes, and Pot-Roasted Carrots. My dessert was a Classic Peche Melba. To accompany our meal we ordered a Mercurey "Vielles Vignes" Burgundy. The wine was an experience in itself...truly wonderful. I had a taste of the other dishes at the table...Rabbit and Pancetta Terrine, Scallops with Cockles, and Veal Cheeks...and everything was first-rate. An incredible dining experience.

Believe it or not, this is the first time that I've ever eaten at a McDonald's restaurant, anywhere in the world, in my entire life! Therefore, when my friend Patrick invited me to have lunch at the McDonald's just across the street and down the block from where I live, I couldn't resist. He was on a mission. I felt like a virgin on her first date! When we walked in at Noon, what surprised me was the fact that the place was almost empty. This restaurant is right across the street from the Berklee College of Music. Don't these weirdos eat fast food? The next surprise came at the counter when we ordered our meal. The counter "girls" were Chinese, and they ordered our food in Chinese! Yikes, where am I? In an attempt to eat a relatively healthy meal (!) I chose to ignore Pat's suggestion to "go with the Big Mac," and ordered as my entree the Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Lettuce and Tomato (without mayonnaise.) It was very tasty. This came with an order of French Fries, which although delicious (!) tasted as though they had been cooked in hand lotion. My beverage was a Barg's Root Beer. I think that my meal came to less than what some people might tip the toilet attendant at the Four Seasons. On the way out, as the restaurant started to fill up with strange people, Pat said, "It's a good thing that you live right across the street because you'll probably have to go to the bathroom in about five minutes." He was right! Thanks for the experience, Pat.

If it seems a bit petty to withhold a star, simply because the restaurant served a tasteless Caesar Salad, so be it. One of the perks of being a "critic!" Actually, if a chef can't throw together a decent Caesar Salad, complete with Parmigiano and Chopped Anchovies (both missing from ours tonight,) it says a lot about the kitchen. Everything else about "The Red House" is in the positive column. Housed in a charming 18th Century cottage just outside of Harvard Square, this multi-roomed new restaurant, is owned by the former chef of Giannino's in the Charles Hotel. You enter through a pub-type area complete with crackling wood in the fireplace, past some private rooms for dining, and into the rear main dining room...a crowded but intimate room. After settling into our pillowed corner banquette, we ordered our wine...a delicious Chianti Riserva...and our meal. After the aforementioned Caesar Salad as my appetizer, my entree was a Grilled Filet of Salmon with Ginger Glaze and Long Beans. My dessert was a Key Lime Pie, one of the best that I've had outside of Florida. Aside from the poorly-prepared Casear Salad, everything else that we ordered was delicious. The service wasn't noticeable...one way or the other. All in all, a nice addition to the Harvard Square dining scene.

The only thing wrong with our dining experience last night, was the annoyingly shrill voice of the blonde Barbie-doll at the corner table, and the three obnoxious "men" at the next table, who kept stroking each other, emotionally as well as physically. Oh well, it WAS the South End! "Perdix" has a convoluted history. Formerly, a hot little restaurant in the ethnically-mixed Jamaica Plain neighborhood in Boston, it moved into the trendy South End when the once-successful restaurant "Truc," packed its pots and pans and fled into the night. With a new paint-job, and some reconstructive work on the romantic glassed-in greenhouse overlooking the gardens in the back, "Perdix" opened to rave reviews. These reviews were certainly justified. Everything about "Perdix" screams CLASS, except some of the customers. The decor, service, knowledgeable and personable wait-staff, and the preparation, presentation, and taste of the food were all excellent. As my appetizer, I had Grilled Figs with Arugula, Prosciutto, Parmesan, and Blood Orange Vinaigrette. My entree was a Roasted Monkfish, with French Lentils, Brown Butter Cauliflower and Sweet Garlic Gremolata. My dessert was a Gingered Apple Cake with Cinnamon Ice Cream. Our wine was an earthy Rubizzo SanGiovese from Tuscany. Try to get one of the four tables in the greenhouse in the back. It will make your dining experience at "Perdix" even more memorable.

If you're in Boston and craving a lobster, and the tables at Legal Sea Foods in the "Pru" are booked up for months, then take a walk over to Skipjack's, just outside of Copley Square. In a setting that's comparable to Legal's, and with a comparable menu as well, you'll get any kind of seafood, prepared to your specifications...grilled, broiled, or fried. What's more important, is that the food will be delicious. There were six of us at dinner, and everyone loved the food, especially the lobster, which I didn't have. Too much work! My appetizer was the best Caesar Salad that I've had outside of Mexico, where it was first created by a chef named Cesar. My entree was a Grilled Atlantic Salmon in a Soy, Lemon and Dijon Sauce, with Green Beans and Caramelized Onions. My dessert was a Chocolate Bread Pudding (to die for!) I had a Pinot Grigio with my meal. Did I mention that the service was first-rate, from a young waiter who actually understood English? So, add Skipjack's to the ever-growing list of fine dining establishments serving prime seafood. It's not just Legal's and No-Name anymore!

I started to get a funny feeling, when we walked into this new restaurant (formerly "Rattlesnake," a popular college hang-out,) and, in spite of some upgrading of the decor (pictures of various Georges...from Washington to Steinbrenner, lined the walls of the bar in front ) there was the same college crowd at the new bar, watching TV screens showing the football and hockey games, while they guzzled their Pabst Blue Ribbons! We asked to be seated in the rear of the dining room, far away from the noisy crowd...and then things continued to go wrong. The menu was so limited, that the sections for burgers and sandwiches far outnumbered the sections for appetizers, salads, and entrees. Ten minutes after we settled on our selections, and gave the waitress our wine order, she came back to the table to tell us that they were out of the Stuffed Chicken Breast. At 7:30 in the evening? She also asked us if we wanted the anchovies on our Caesar Salads. When will chef/restaurateurs understand that this is not an option on a true Caesar Salad? The anchovies must be ground up into a paste with the worcestershire sauce, lemon juice etc. to coat the leaves of romaine. Then, she informed us that they couldn't find the manager, who had the key to the wine cellar. When he was finally found, she apologized, and told us that we wouldn't have to pay for our appetizers. Which brings me to the food. My appetizer was the Caesar Salad (with Whole Anchovies on top!) It was surprisingly good. For my entree, I went with a true "comfort food," Macaroni and Cheese. Well, this was not the usual orangey Mac & Cheese that I love, but more like a Macaroni Alfredo, with a white creamy sauce. It was just alright. One of my friends ordered Spicy Chicken Fingers for an appetizer, and they were delicious, and very spicy. My other friend's Pork Chops entree looked good. My dessert was a very large Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream. For our wine, I chose a Kendall-Jackson Shyra, mother of the famous Australian Shiraz. It was heavy, but very good. Maybe I'll go back sometime to try the burgers and fries!

The Museum of Fine Arts in Boston has acquired a new work of art, only it's a restaurant rather than a painting. In the space formerly occupied by the staid Fine Arts Restaurant, the new restaurant "Bravo" shines like a new acquisition. The powers-that-be at the MFA decided to ratchet up the quality of their main dining room, and they hired designer Peter Niemitz to do the job. He's transformed the space through color, design, lighting, and furnishings, into something resembling the living room of a wealthy art patron's estate. Burnt orange, beige, gray, and white are the predominant colors, lit by elegant torchere lamps spaced discreetly around the room. The paintings on the wall are by Spanish artist Claudio Bravo, for whom the room is named. The new chef has provided a limited, but high quality menu. My appetizer was a Vermont Goat Cheese Tart with Tangerine, Anise Honey and Beet Root Salad. My entree was a Free Range Chicken Breast with Salad of Pear, Blue Cheese, Spinach Cinnamon Red Wine Vinaigrette and Pecans. My dessert was a Napoleon of Mascarpone Cheese with Raspberries, and for the table we had an order of Homemade Miniature Cookies. The wine was a Groth Sauvignon Blanc. Make reservations for lunch or dinner at "Bravo" when you go to see the Rembrandt exhibit, and you can satisfy all of your senses in one short day.

The ideal place to have Thanksgiving Dinner outside of your own home, is at the site of the first Thanksgiving, Plymouth Plantation, in the company of the live-in actors who portray the Pilgrims and Indians on a daily basis. One would have thought that the next best bet would have been at one of the area's historic inns, such as the old (built in 1716,) beautiful Colonial Inn, on the Green in Concord, Mass. One would have been wrong! The old historic rooms on the main floor were filled to capacity, so we were relegated to the basement level, in a room that looked like your grandmother's rec-room! The food was cold, dry and tough, and so was the waiter. No, actually, he was just stupid and rude. His accent was so unintelligible that I thought that his initial question to us was "Is anyone allergic to peanuts and diarrhea?" (He was saying "dairy!") The fact that we were 18 people added to our fun, but to his misery. He simply couldn't handle it, and the food being served, was left standing until it cooled off considerably. Maybe I should have done the same...cooled off that is. Oh, did I mention that we had a lot of laughs and a great time?

It's always a pleasant surprise when a restaurant exceeds ones expectations. I hadn't been to the North End's "Saraceno's" in years, and I remembered it as an outdated relic...one of those "red sauce" places with red-checkered tablecloths, and wax-dripping candles in Chianti bottles on the tables. In truth, the decor does run along those lines. After being escorted through the upstairs rooms by a reject from the cast of "The Sopranos," down a flight of stairs, and through a maze of downstairs rooms (covered with badly-painted murals of Italian city-scenes,) we were finally led to our table in the farthest corner of the last room. We were a group of 11, and they seated us at a large table, away from the other large tables. The bread and olive oil (Colavita) were delicious. However, my appetizer of Pasta e Fagioli (a good test of a restaurant,) was watery and tasteless, as though it had just been poured out of a Campbell's can! The entree, on the other hand was perfect. I had a Sogliola Meuniere ( a filet of sole with lemon and butter sauce) with Broccoli Raba and Roasted Potatoes. Those of us who ordered a dessert of Chocolate Profiteroles found them to be so good, (as opposed to the soggy Tiramisu and the ordinary-tasting Cheesecake,) that we ordered seconds, only to find that they had been changed into Vanilla Profiteroles, that didn't taste anything like the first order. Our waitress, who had been excellent up to this point, kept insisting that they were the same Profiteroles. There was no convincing her otherwise. A small thing, but it said something about the wait-staff and its attitude toward customers. I don't know what the wine was, but my white tasted delicious...and very expensive. All in all, the restaurant was better than what I had expected it to be, but not one of the top-drawer restaurants in this neighborhood of excellent Italian restaurants.

It's hard to be objective about reviewing a restaurant, when your friend is your waiter, and he treats you to a round of drinks, and sends over platters of appetizers "on the house." However, I'll try. While we were waiting for Pete to get our table ready, we went downstairs to The Milky Way Lounge to have drinks at the bar. The Milky Way is a quirky-looking lounge that is a combination bar, karaoke lounge, and lanes for candlepin bowling! On the other hand, Bella Luna upstairs, is a smallish pizzeria, with a menu that includes a full range of Italian specialties, as well as a wide variety of pizzas. The platters of appetizers that Pete brought to the table were: Bruschetta of Eggplant and Mozzarella, Fried Calamari, and an interesting Antipasto platter. We ordered a regular Cheese and Tomato Sauce Pizza, and an elaborate one with Eggplant, Mozzarella, Artichoke, and Capers. Everything was delicious, and the service was as professional as in any 5-star restaurant. On Pete's recommendation, we ordered the Pinot Bianco to accompany the meal; it was perfect. A fun meal in a fun place.

When "GQ" magazine names a new little restaurant in Jamaica Plain, as one of the "best newcomers in America," then it's time to get over there and see what all the fuss is about. Wow, were they right! This place is incredible. It's storefront is so small and unobtrusive that we actually passed it by. However, once inside the restaurant, the decor is a triumph of simplicity, elegance and taste. Wooden floors, marble table tops, and large squares of black and red cloth designs on the walls. The waiters are dressed in jeans, white shirts, and long white aprons, and they all seem to be thoroughly knowledgeable about the food on the menu. That brings us to the food. Items on the menu are divided into three courses: Mezze, First, and Main. Everything in each course sounds mouth-wateringly tempting; it's hard to choose. But choose we did. My friend ordered the Tasting of all Six Mezze consisting of Basil Cured Salmon, Goat's Cheese in Herbes de Provence, Roasted Moroccan Eggplant, Grilled Shrimp in Harissa, Lamb and Rosemary Sausage, and Algerian Potato Salad. I tasted all of these and they were all delicious! My first course was an Arugula Salad with Feta Cheese, Marinated Red Peppers, Kalamata Olives, and Preserved Lemon. My main course was a Butternut Squash Risotto with Mushrooms, Sage, and Parmesan. My dessert was a sinful Banana Tarte Tatin with Cinnamon and Honey Ice Cream, and Caramel Sauce. We ordered the Cheese Tray for the table. On it were Westfield Farm Hubbardston's Cow's Milk & Bluebonnet Goat's Milk, and Great Hill Blue Cow's Milk, served with Medjool Dates. Our wine was a perfect Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc. As if we hadn't had enough to drink, we ended the night with Limoncello. A perfect ending to a perfect dining experience. Get over to "Arbor" as soon as you can, before the crowds discover it. After that, there'll be no getting in!

In the not-so-distant past, Washington Street in Roxbury, was one of Boston's most dangerous streets. Hidden under an ancient, rusting, elevated train line, its shadows protected drug deals and other sketchy goings on. As the wave of the South End's gentrification swept over the area, reclaiming more and more of Roxbury, the elevated train tracks came down, and the beautification of Washington Street began. The new Silver Line made the street more accessible, and the brick sidewalks and landscaping made it more beautiful. Then came the restaurants...The Red Fez, Pho Republique, Cafe Umbra, Gallia, Flour Bakery and Cafe...and the beautiful people grabbed up all of the new condos in the smart new buildings and in the old converted townhouses. Now Washington Street is one of Boston's hottest addresses, and with its new respectability, comes its finest most elegant restaurant, the Union Bar & Grille. Named by its owner, after New York's Union Square Cafe (arguably New York's most popular restaurant,) where he worked as sous-chef under Michael Romano, the Union Bar & Grille is Washington Street's crowning glory. The place reeks of class, from its impeccable service, to its chic Peter Niemitz-designed interior, to its perfectly prepared and presented food. Settle into one of those comfortable black leather banquettes, and take your time in ordering, because the menu is filled with enticing selections. My appetizer was a delicious Goat Cheese and Arugula Salad, with Wood Grilled Eggplant and Vine-Ripened Tomatoes. The waitress brought us a pan of freshly-baked Corn Bread to accompany our appetizers. The entree menu included such items as Wild Striped Bass with Squash, Rack of Lamb with Jerusalem Artichokes, Seared Salmon Fillet with Savoy Cabbage and Roasted Apples, etc. However, I chose a "specialty of the house," the Union Beef and Andouille Sausage Burger with Vermont Cheddar Cheese and Gourmet Fries!! It was one of the most perfect (and expensive) burgers that I've ever had...and that includes that damn $50 burger at DB Bistro Moderne in New York! I ordered the Cheese Tray for dessert, but I would recommend that you go with what my friend ordered...the White Milkshake with Godiva Liqueur. I don't know what else is in it, but it tastes like it came from heaven!!! Our wine was a perfect Syrah Ste. Michelle. As we left the restaurant, and looked at the beautiful Cathedral across the wide new boulevard of Washington Street, I could only think "now why didn't I buy one of those townhouses, when I could have had it for less than $100,000!!!"

Wow! These new restaurants get bigger and better, and "Vinalia" is the biggest and best of the "new kids in town." Located on Summer Street in the heart of Downtown Crossing, just down the block from Filene's and Macy's, the only sign of a restaurant at street level is a conservative blue awning, with the name of the restaurant on it. You enter what looks like an office building, proceed up an escalator, and then "Vinalia" starts to reveal itself around you, like a mirage. To one side of the escalator is what appears to be a cocktail lounge, but is in fact the restaurant's Wine Bar. Low tables, with sofas and chairs around them. On the other side of the escalator, through the frosted-glass doors of the entrance, is the Ian Schrager/South Beach-like Martini Bar, which last night, seemed to be the happening place in town! The dark, blue-lighted back-lit bar was filled with beautiful young people, milling about, drinking, and doing what people do in hopping bars. Beyond the bar is the huge and elegant dining room itself, with large windows overlooking Summer Street, and beyond the Dining Room are private rooms for wine-tastings. Very impressive. Chef Justin Villa was the Executive Sous-Chef under Daniel Bruce at Meritage, and he's learned his lessons well from a master. The items on the menu (creative American cuisine) are extensive, and the wine list is incredible. There's even a wine-pairing menu each night. Although it was difficult to chose, I selected the Spinach and Parmesan Risotto, with Fava Beans and Julienne Prosciutto as my appetizer. Three of us shared a Margarita Wood-Grilled Pizza as well. My entree was a Pan Seared Chilean Sea Bass with Black Quinoa, Corn, and Roasted Pepper Sauce. For dessert, I had the Seasonal Fruit and Lemon Sorbet. Our wine was a full-bodied Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Although the portions are small, everything was quite filling and very delicious. Did I mention that the service was impeccable? Our waitress was delightful. Although I rarely return to a restaurant (too many new good ones to try,) I would seriously consider returning to this one. It was just too big to take it all in on a first visit. Go, and enjoy yourself at one of Boston's new treasures!

Sometimes it's hard to tell if you're enjoying a dining experience at a new restaurant, because of the food and the restaurant, or because of the excellent company sharing that experience with you. Such may have been the case last night. Since I don't intend to start reviewing my friends (!) let's take a look at the restaurant. In the space formerly occupied by the Commonwealth Brewery near the Fleet Center, noted chef Robert Fathman ("Azure") has created a spacious, casually glamorous, beautiful new home to his upscale American "comfort" fare. The large dining room and bar are surrounded by street-level windows, with lush velvet and beaded curtains used to divide the huge room up into more intimate sections. Wooden floors, and a dark-wood paneled bar with lit-from-below vodka bottles as decor, complete the picture. Downstairs is a sexy and sultry lounge, which should become a popular hang out as soon as "the beautiful young people" discover it. Now to the food. My appetizer was an Iceberg Wedgie with Blue Cheese, Bacon Bits, Marinated Tomato and Hard-boiled Egg. My entree was a "Mighty Meat Loaf" (choice beef, chorizo, and Italian sausage,) with Mashed Potatoes and a large assortment of Vegetables & Gravy. My dessert was a Grown-up Float with Ice Cream and Bailey's. Our table shared a Fondue of Spinach and Artichoke in Melted Cheese. Our wines were a Napa Cabernet Sauvignon and a Chilean Pinot Noir. Everything was delicious and abundant (large portions.) The service was first-rate....and so were my friends. Yikes! I AM reviewing my friends!

Famed Boston chef and owner Barbara Lynch ("No. 9 Park,") has bravely opened two side by side (actually, across the street from one another) restaurants almost simultaneously. One serves oysters and other limited seafood dishes exclusively, and the other is strictly for meat-lovers. Sort of an upscale version of "surf and turf!" I had been told that one should order an appetizer in one, and then go to the other for the entree. So, I decided to try "B & G Oysters, Ltd." for my appetizer. I had a delicious, and quite filling portion of Fried Oysters. From there, I went over to "The Butcher Shop" for my entree. This charming place is modeled after a European charcuterie, and in fact, it IS a butcher shop by day, where expert hands slice and dice some of the best meat to be found in Boston. At night, the large counter becomes a communal table, (and I suspect that when it gets overcrowded, the butcher block does as well,) and there are only five other granite bar-tables. So be prepared to wait, or do as I did, and wait across the street while you're having your oyster appetizer. They'll call you when your table is ready. My entree was an order of Rilletes en Pot (meatballs in a bearnaise sauce.) I also had Artisanal Cheeses (the cheese tray.) The food was absolutely perfect, although the service was typically French...slow, but efficient. My wine was a hearty Cabernet Sauvignon. Try this double-billed dining experience as I did, going from one to the other. If you don't mind eating at a counter, you'll find it fun, and very European, for a one-time event. I for one, however, prefer to eat at a real table.

The new club in town bills itself as a "Tapas Restaurant/Bar," and it certainly is that, and more. Next door to Dockside, and around the corner from Fanueil Hall, this 3-level affair seems to have already proven itself to be a sanctuary for the downtown set. It was packed to capacity last night. The crowd seemed to be more the 30-something after-work set, rather than the undergraduate kids one finds at Ned Devine's or the Landsdowne Street "mall" of clubs. Before we sat down to dinner upstairs, we checked out the street level area, with its curved silver and wood ceiling and its two large buddhas guarding the bar. In between the buddhas are three plasma screens for viewing sporting events. Old time religious icons, and contemporary "religious" icons...take your pick. There are black leather banquettes for dining on this level, but its primarily for the bar set. In the basement level, we stumbled into what appeared to be a private party...at least there were lots of balloons and women wearing bunny ears! Down here you're aware of the Fanueil Hall location, in that the walls are the exposed granite blocks of this 18th century neighborhood. Two levels up, we were seated at a comfortable table in a dining area away from yet another bar with plasma screens. The setting was modernistic, with dark walls, indirect lighting, and colorful suede seats around dark wooden tables. The music was cranked up on all three levels...loud, but not annoying enough to disturb your dinner. Now, to dinner. Because the menu featured tapas (small plates,) I ordered a Borlotti Bean Dip (pureed cranberry beans, parmegiano reggiano and roasted garlic with olive oil and crusty bread,) The Devil's Olives (in peppercorns, garlic and lemon,) and Albondigas (homemade Spanish meatballs in a smoked tomato sauce.) For dessert, two of us ordered three plates and shared. We had Mexican Chocolate Wontons (bittersweet ganache wrapped in wontons with cinnamon ice cream,) Roast Banana Cake (with roast pecans, butter-rum sauce and rum-raisin ice cream,) and Lemon Grass Semifreddo (semi-frozen mousse with lemon confit and roast cashew brittle.) Our wine was a pitcher of Sangria. (Order by the glass...it's cheaper!) I apologize for the length of this review, but it's a big place, and there's a lot going on under one roof.

Because it's under new management, with a new highly-touted chef, I decided to revisit this Boston classic...a restaurant that's existed in three centuries! My last visit was at least 20 years ago, and as I pulled open the heavy front door, and walked into the dark wood-paneled bar section of the restaurant, I could see that nothing has changed...and that's a definite compliment. The atmosphere is authentic brauhaus, with unpolished wooden floors, high tin ceiling, wooden cloth-covered tables, and coat-hooks and hat shelves lining the walls. 19th Century prints and artifacts cover the walls over the hat shelf. Does anyone wear hats anymore? The menu still has the German classic dishes on it, but there are some new additions to show off the culinary skills of the new chef. My appetizer was a Classic Caesar Salad with Cornbread Croutons. Incidentally, the breadbasket consisted of freshly-baked cornbread. My entree was a Butternut Squash and Spinach Risotto with a Potato Latke. My dessert was a Triple Sorbet. Our wine was a Riesling. Just a word about my friend's dessert, because it was one of the most beautiful, and tasty creations that I've ever seen. It was a Dark Chocolate Beer Stein filled with a Raspberry and Chocolate Mousse. Everything was edible, although the stein was so nicely crafted that we hesitated to pick at it...but not for long. It was served with a homemade ice-cream sandwich! Everything in Jacob Wirth's is so carefully preserved in time, it was jarring to walk out into the hustle and bustle of Boston's theatre district.

Just what Boston needs, another seafood restaurant! Why would restaurateur/chef Tony Ambrose close down his beautifully elegant "Ambrosia" on Huntington Avenue, and replace it with a stylish new seafood restaurant? Maybe it's because he felt that it's time to get rid of that tired cuisine, Asian-French fusion. I certainly do! Or, maybe it's because he wanted to try to duplicate the success of his "Blackfin" at the shore in Hingham. In any case, here we are with another fancy "surf and turf" joint, and guess what? It's wonderful. The look is stark, elegant, and ocean-blue, with large fish tanks, custom built raw and sushi bars, and fishing paraphernalia as the rooms decoration. The menu features mostly seafood of all varieties, and a few items from the Blackfin Wood Fired Grill. Because it's the hot new spot in town right now, everyone seems to be there, and it's very noisy. But that doesn't take away from the enjoyment of dining there. My appetizer was Maryland Crab Cakes with Tomato, Horseradish and Cilantro. My entree was Jumbo Shrimp Scampi with Lemon Risotto and Tomatoes. My dessert was a Chocolate Ganache Layer Cake with Coffee Ice Cream. Our wine was a delicious Pinot Grigio. Owner/chef Ambrose was manning the raw bar tonight. He had a big smile on his face while he was shucking those oysters. He knows a good thing when he sees it, and "Blackfin" is a very good thing.

It's been ages since I last took the trek up Route 1 to what may be the largest steak house in America. (Their figures for number of steaks and salads sold per week are staggering.) I used to drive up there at least once a month, to take my young relatives (who were in school up here at the time,) and visiting friends from other parts of the country, and Europe, for "a piece of America's finest meat." Does it still serve the best steak around? Well, not exactly....but I'm getting ahead of myself. Approaching this vast complex, (restaurant and large butcher shop,) one is impressed by the size of the place. Get there early if you don't want to wait forever for your table; they still don't take reservations. The place was packed tonight, and the clientele looked like a casting call for "Deliverance." My appetizer was a mouth-watering portion of Buffalo Fingers. My friend and I both ordered the Filet Mignon for entrees. (Junior went for the LARGE filet mignon...an oxymoron?...and I went for the PETITE filet mignon...a redundant term?) Both orders were accompanied by Salad and Baked Potatoes. We decided to go for beer instead of wine with our dinners. Our dessert was an Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream. So how was the food? Disappointing. Although the portions were HUGE, the steak was not what I would call a filet mignon; too much fat. The large portions were a welcome change though, from the cutesy, over-decorated tiny portions served at some of our best gourmet restaurants...especially those damn French-Asian "fusion" places! OK Nick, stop waving the flag. It's a RESTAURANT review, not a political statement! In summary, the emphasis was on quantity, not quality...and seeing so many senior citizens in sweat suits, and red-necks in plaid, was not the ideal way to take ones mind off a bad steak!

(4-Stars) Yeh, that's right...4-Stars

RESTAURANT REVIEW: "SOLAS" (in the Lenox Hotel)

I had a craving for Irish pub fare, so we decided to head over to the "authentic Irish pub" in the Lenox Hotel (at the finish line of Monday's Marathon.) Because the weather was beautiful, everyone else had the same idea. We were able to get a table upstairs overlooking all of the activity on the street below. I realized when I looked at the menu, that what I really wanted, was either Shepherd's Pie or Meat Loaf, neither of which was on the menu. So I settled for a fine plate of Fish & Chips as my entree. For an appetizer, I had their Tuscan White Bean and Escarole Soup, which was more Campbell's than Tuscany! The ambience was very "pubby," with a lot of people (post Red Sox/Yankees game fans) on cell-phones trying to talk to one another over the blasting of the Rolling Stones on the sound system. "Solas" would not be out of place in either Dublin or Belfast; it looks like an Irish tourist pub (not a neighborhood pub.) The service was very bad. Our waitress kept telling us, "I'll get that, hon," and then never did. Considering what she looked like, that was a blessing!

(2 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW: "MORTON'S STEAK HOUSE"

If "Mortons" isn't the best steakhouse in town (and I tend to think that it is,) then it certainly ranks up there with "Grill 23 and Bar," "The Palm," "Abe & Louie's," and the "Capital Grille," as being ONE of the best in town. Often referred to as "The Dungeon" because of its below-ground location, one enters "Mortons" by way of a modern office-building, down a set of marble stairs, and through a speak-easy-like wooden door. Once inside, the atmosphere is sleek, dark, and reeking of intimacy and efficiency. After a Jack Daniels and Water, I had an appetizer of Morton's Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing, Chopped Egg and Anchovies. Our waiter wheeled up a cart bearing all of the various cuts of meat available on the menu. From the cart, I chose a Double Cut Filet Mignon with Sauce Bearnaise. We shared a delicious order of Hashed Brown Potatoes. My dessert was a Godiva Hot Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream. Our wine was a Kendall-Jackson Cabernet Sauvignon. This was one of those perfect nights where everything came together...good company, beautiful surroundings, excellent food, and impeccable service. It doesn't get better than this.

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW: "Q DOBA"

Fast food, Mexican style: burritos, nachos, quesadillas, and tacos. "Taco Bell" with less attitude, this counter-service-only place turns out inexpensive food with fresh ingredients. I had a large Cheese Quesadilla, and a Chopped Sirloin Taco. My drink was a Root Beer! For those of you in the Boston area, another branch of this chain is about to open at Northeastern, in the place vacated by "Stars." Supposedly, it will have waiter-service, plus beer and Margaritas. Just what our students need, another watering hole!

(3-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW: "TOP OF THE HUB"

In Boston, two of the classic "restaurant rules" don't apply. Rule #1- Never eat in restaurants in hotels. (Some of our best restaurants are in our hotels.) Rule #2- Never eat in tall buildings with a view. (Up until a short time ago, this would have been true. Now, it's not.) For over 35 years, the "Top of the Hub," on the 52nd floor of "The Pru'," had been a dreadful restaurant, with a kitchen similar to one that one would find at a Howard Johnson's. A new executive chef , Mark Porcaro, has changed all of that. Now, the room is not only beautiful and elegant, with a view unsurpassed in all of New England, but it also has food worthy of the view. The new menu leans heavily on native seafood and shellfish, and aged meats. My appetizer was a delicious Jonah and Lump Crabmeat Cake with Sweet Pepper Remoulade. My appetizer was a Lemon and Black Pepper Pasta with Rock Shrimp, Olives, Roasted Tomatoes and Leaf Spinach in a Roasted Garlic Cream . My dessert was a Warm Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Mint Ice Cream, and a Raspberry Shortbread Cookie. Our wine was a fine "Kings Estate" Pinos Gris from Oregon. After dinner we strolled around the perimeter of the now-darkened, candle-lit restaurant and lounge, taking in the incredible views of a beautiful city, from an altogether different perspective. It was fun to look into Fenway Park from this angle, as well as to peer into my own apartment just a long block away. Oops. Did I leave a light on?

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW-MA: "CHEF ORIENT" (in Framingham, Mass.)

The last time that I went to a "Japanese Steak House" was at the Japanese pavilion at DisneyWorld...it was fun, the food was good, and the show was the chef at your table. The same could be said about Chef Orient, out in the Boston suburb of Framingham. Although far less decorative than the DisneyWorld steak house, Chef Orient, delivers the goods. The Japanese maitre d' (owner?) and waitresses studied our reservation, and got us to our table, with the efficiency and detachment of workers at a Toyota factory. No "be friendly to customer" here. We were the first diners seated around the large tepanyaki grill, and as we ordered our drinks, were apprehensive about who might be joining us. Our fears were justified. A local family with endless amounts of children and a retarded uncle with a bad toupee (who sat next to me!) were our dinner companions. An unintelligible, but efficient, waitress took our order, and the show began. Once again, the chef was the star. With the skill of a surgeon, and the grace of a ballerina, he played with, and prepared our food, tossing bits of shell to the children as he cut the shrimp and vegetables. Mercifully, once the food was slid onto our plates on the blades of his dancing knives, it was excellent. My appetizer was a Salad with Ginger Dressing. (The waitress brought us two each..."no extra charge.") Then came an Onion Soup, Japanese Style (the bowl was Japanese.) My entree was an Hibachi Salmon with "Garlic Touch" served with Hibachi Vegetables. Dessert was Coconut Ice Cream. We left the restaurant over the bridge covering the small pond with goldfish, feeling strangely full, and smiling about the surprisingly satisfying dining experience.

(4 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "L" (at Louis of Boston)
In a men's store as elegant and exclusive as Louis of Boston (where nothing seems to cost less than $1000,) it shouldn't be surprising to find an elegant and exclusive restaurant. In the past there was the "Cafe Louis," similar to the Armani Cafe, but now there is the very up-scale "L." Although minimalist in decor, "L" achieves a colorful ambience through the use of Mondrian-like geometric shapes and colors. The food matches the simple elegance of the look. Chef Pino Maffeo, "stolen" from several famous restaurants in New York, has done wonders to turn this place into a destination in and of itself, regardless of whether or not you need a new sweater or shirt! The wait-staff is perfection: knowledgeable and extremely courteous. But now to the food. My appetizer was a Watercress & Endive Salad with Warm Basted Pears, Peanuts, and Stilton Cheese. This was followed by an amuse-bouche of some sort of Chicken and Pork Dumpling. My entree was a Pan Roasted Salmon with Tiny Gnocchi, Bacon, Fiddlehead Ferns and Tomatoes. Another amuse-bouche...this time a Chocolate Ball Flavored with Anchovy. Believe it or not, it was delicious! My dessert was an Assortment of Citrus Sorbets. The final amuse-bouche was Cappuchino Cotton Candy !!! Our wine was a wonderful '84 Cotes du Rhone. As we were leaving, a large party hosted by Ferrari was moving into the other side of the restaurant. A classy car manufacturer knows where to throw a classy dinner, it seems.
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "CROMA"

A new Italian restaurant on Newbury Street, owned by a British restaurateur? What's that all about? "Croma," in the space vacated by "Davio's," is the sister restaurant of a successful restaurant in Manchester, England. The menu features pastas and pizzas, and for those of you who still think of England as a gustatory wasteland, forget about it. This one's a winner...more or less! The ambience is that of a lovely townhouse, with two elegant, but understated interior floors, and a charming garden patio out front on Newbury Street. We started off with a Margherita pizza as an appetizer. Really delicious, but be warned. They're small and expensive. Then, we shared a dreary Caesar Salad. After which, I had a Three Cheese Lasagna, which I shared with my friend who had an order of Eggplant Parmesan. Everything was very tasty, but nothing more than what would expect from a good "red-sauce" Italian joint. Maybe it was the delicious Pinot Noir, or the cocktails that we had before dinner, but everything seemed just a little better than it probably was! Oh well, it's a pretty place, and the waiter was a great guy. Very friendly, and helpful. If you go to "Croma," get boozed up as we did, and everything will seem better than it really is.

(3 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW-"TANGIERINO"
What's a chic, exotic, and elegant Moroccan restaurant...one that wouldn't be out of place in Casablanca...doing on Main Street in Charlestown, in the shadow of Bunker Hill? Well, whatever it's doing there, it's doing it very, very well. Executive Chef and Owner Samad Naamad has combined his passion for interior design, with his expertise in the culinary arts of his native country of Morocco, to come up with a dining adventure that is unrivaled in Boston, or many other cities, for that matter. With its luxurious furniture, crimson colored walls and fabrics, original artwork, painted mirrors and authentic Moroccan accents, one could have stepped into the world of the Arabian Nights, or into one of the many luxurious palaces in Morocco itself. (It reminds me of the dining room at the fabulous Al Mamounia in Marrakech. That's a very high compliment.) In fact, one visiting Moroccan Royal said that it was "better than the Palace!" The women who are working there are gorgeous! But what about the food? In a word, fabulous. My appetizer was Moroccan Crisp Calamari with Spicy Charmoula Sauce. My entree was Harissa Seared Salmon Tagra Filet and Moroccan Essence, with Vegetables, Plum Tomato Tartare, and Orange-Sake Glace. My dessert was a delicious dish of Mango, Lemon, and Strawberry Sorbet. We shared a plate of Moroccan Date, Fig, and Almond Pastries. Our "wine" was a tasty, but potent Moroccan Sangria. If you're looking for something classy, but different, this is it.
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "THE STANHOPE GRILL" (in the New Jury's Hotel in Boston)

One of Dublin, Ireland's most famous hotels has always been Jury's. Now, Jury's has come to Boston. After a multi-million dollar restoration, the New Jury's Hotel has moved into the palatial Italian Renaissance building formerly occupied by the Boston Police Headquarters! The interior decor is simple, but elegant. Of course, there is a Cuff's Irish Bar there, but its premiere restaurant is The Stanhope Grill. We took a table facing the open kitchen, rather than sitting outside on the sunken terrace. As there always is in Ireland, there was a chance of rain. The friendly wait-staff made us feel at home very quickly. Possibly because we were the only ones eating inside. My appetizer was the House Smoked Salmon with Warm German Potato Salad, Creme Fraiche and Sturgeon Caviar. My entree was the best Shepherd's Pie that I've had since Molly Darcy's Pub closed its doors in South Boston. Our dessert was a sampling of three desserts...Pineapple Sorbet, Chocolate Souffle, and a Vanilla Panna Cotta. We selected a Pinot Noir from Ireland as our wine! It was delicious, as was everything else.

(4 -Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "SMITH & WOLLENSKY'S"
The prestigious New York steakhouse chain has come to Boston in style, bidding for top honors as "the best steakhouse in town." The newest steakhouse in town has moved into one of the oldest buildings in town...the Park Square historic landmark known as "the Castle." Previously, this building has served as an armory, and a place for special "events." The restaurant occupies all four floors of this 22,000-square-foot space, with vintage dark-wood wainscotting, beamed ceilings, wrought iron stairwells, giant oil paintings, moose-heads, and huge period light fixtures. In short, it's the perfect "mens' club"...masculine to the max. But as the saying goes, you can't eat the furniture so, how's the food? In a word, excellent. I can't remember the last time that I had a more perfect filet mignon. My appetizer was S & W's Famous Split Pea Soup with Croutons. My entree was the 10 oz. Filet Mignon with Corn off the Cob and Hashed Brown Potatoes. Our wine was a delicious, full-bodied French Chateau St. Emille Syrah, grandfather to Australia's Shiraz. No dessert, because we went back to my place for macaroons and Jagermeister. Did I mention that the service was old-school...a mixture of charm, know-how and class? Watch out Grill 23 and Bar, Morton's, Abe & Louie's, and Capitol Grille. The big boy has come to town, and he'll probably attract every business person from Connecticut to the Canadian border. Get your reservations now, for your "steak and testosterone fix."
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW- "VIA VALVERDE"
Via Valverde will set the standard for excellence in the North End for years to come...excellence in decor, excellence in service, and excellence in food preparation and presentation. When a new restaurant joins the hundred or so restaurants already up and running in Boston's North End, America's largest "Little Italy," it's often hard for the new place to get noticed. This certainly won't be a problem for the "new guy in town," Via Valverde. Owned and operated by the same people who run the highly successful Trattoria alla Scalinatella next door, this one's a winner. Unlike the rustic Trattoria, the atmosphere at Via Valverde is like that of an ancient palace or villa in Italy. One almost expects the uniformed servants to come in and announce that dinner will be served shortly. When "that dinner" finally is served, it's quite an incredible meal. From the moment that owner Paolo Diecidue greets you at the door and ushers you to your table, you feel as though you're the most important guests dining that evening. Paolo gives you a choice of selecting from the menu, or trying the three course tasting meal. We selected from the menu. I skipped the appetizer and went straight for one of the Prima Piatti, which was Rigatoni alla Norma with Braised Eggplant, and San Marzano Tomatoes topped with Shavings of Sicilian Ricotta Salata. My choice from the Secondi Piatti (entrees) was Ramba Sacrense (East Coast Line Caught Halibut, Brushed with Seasonings and Slowly Roasted, Garnished with Whipped Potatoes and Drizzled with Salsa Verde.) Instead of dessert, we selected the Cheese Platter, consisting of Taleggio, Gorgonzola, and a delicious Cheese from Venice (I missed the name.) Our wine was a Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and a Cabernet Sauvignon. Keep up the good work Paolo; you've got a winner!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW:MA- "UMBRIA"

First it was "Trattoria Il Panino," and now the five-story extravaganza in the Financial District has been completely redone and is now called "Umbria." Owners Frank DePasquale, Rita D'Angelo and Chef/Owner Marisa Iocco (the trio who brought us the highly-successful "Bricco" in the North End,) are using the same format of their old "Il Panino," that is, a state of the art bi-level nightclub on the top two floors, a Vegas-style plush cocktail lounge on the third floor, event rooms on the second floor and a rustic restaurant (with open kitchen) on the lower floor. Chef Marisa Iocco claims that this is the first truly Umbrian menu in the United States, with fresh ingredients flown in daily from the owners' farm in Umbria. The young and the beautiful who've packed the place every night since it opened earlier this month, don't seem to care if she were cooking up burgers and fries, and probably couldn't tell a truffle from a dorito! I do and I can, so this is what I ordered: a shared Platter of Perfect Salumi and Prosciutto (Spicy Umbrian Sopresatto and Prosciutto, with Regional Cheeses.) My appetizer was Polpette di Polenta (White Polenta "meat" balls with Crispy Veal Bites in White Wine Tomato Ragout.) My entree was a perfect Risotto with White Truffles. My dessert was a Panna Cotta. Our wine was a smooth Umbrian Orvieto. The excellent food aside, there are some negatives to dining at Umbria. First of all, there's a pompous, rude and uptight maitresse d', all attitude and no service, who kept us waiting a half-hour beyond our reservation time. Then we were seated in the very intimate (read cramped) dining area. Luckily, we had chatty and friendly "neighbors" on either side of us. My friend was brought the wrong entree, but it was soon replaced with the correct one, and we weren't charged for the entree. Someone finally realized that they were jacking us around, and they tried to make amends. Too little, too late. Knock one and a half stars off of what could be a 5-Star restaurant. (Get rid of the plasma screen in the open bar area, and the maitresse d', and put some space between those tables in the dining room.)

(3 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT: MA REVIEW- "SIBLING RIVALRY"
A new restaurant, one with an interesting gimmick, has opened in the chic end of the already very chic South End. The brothers Kinkead, Robert ( of Kinkead's in D.C., and Harvest in Cambridge,) and David (of Kingfish Hall in Fanueil Hall, Boston,) are doing what might be called "dueling chefs." The brother chefs each do their own take on a particular ingredient, listed side-by-side on the menu. If you sit at the long food bar, you can watch these "iron chefs" at work. We didn't. After an amuse-bouche of Duck Fois Gras, my appetizer was Pumpkin Ravioli with Sage, Pecorino, Pancetta, Pumpkin Seeds and Brown Butter. My entree was Grilled Swordfish Steak with Gigante Beans, Artichokes and Puttanesca Sauce. My dessert was a Trio of Vanilla Ice Cream, Coconut and Raspberry Sorbet. Our wine was a DaVinci Chianti Classico. Everything was delicious, and presented beautifully. The wait-staff was friendly and knowledgeable. The neighborhood is trendy and moneyed, (the restaurant is in the same building as the upscale new condo, Atelier, and right next door to the new theater complex, the Calderwood Pavilion,) and so the clientele is theater-goers and serious foodies from the South End, itself. The decor is contemporary, with earthy colors and lots of copper. It's a high-energy, fun place, with the emphasis on good food. It should do very well here.
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT:MA REVIEW- "LA MORRA" in Brookline, Massachusetts

Josh Ziskin's family had a picture-framing store in Brookline. Thinking to join the family business, Josh decided to take a trip to Italy first. In the small town of La Morra, in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy, Josh fell in love with the town and its cuisine, and stayed on for two years, learning everything about the foods and wines of Italy. Having decided to become a chef, he returned to Boston, where he apprenticed with Marisa Iocco ("Umbria,") and Rene Michelena ("Saint.") He bought a small store in Brookline, opened his new restaurant, "La Morra," and the restaurant is becoming history. Critics have called this new restaurant one of the most outstanding places to get Italian food, not only in Boston, but in the U.S. as well. (One even said that it has the finest Italian food outside of Italy!) Well, that's certainly a challenge, and so we went there last night. Well, we went, and although it might not be the finest place for Italian food outside of Italy (that spot is reserved for those four restaurants in Brooklyn ( Fra-Mar's, Romano's, Villa Vivola, and Tommasso's ) where I ate as a child and young adult, it's certainly one of the most authentically Italian restaurants in all of America. We started our meal with cicchetti (Venetian small plates): Arancini and Tuscan Polpette. My appetizer was an Escarole Salad with Ricotta Salata, Walnuts and Apples. My primi piatti was Gnocchi alla Bolognese. My secondi was Sea Scallops served with Parsnip Puree, Sage Brown Butter and Spinach with Lemon and Capers. We had the Cheese Tray for dessert as well as a Sorbet Trio. Our wine was an excellent Trebbiano. Everything was delicious, and the service equaled the food. Jennifer Ziskin, the chef's wife, treated us as though we were visiting celebrities. That's always nice. I love this place!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANTS:MA- "EMMA'S PIZZA" (in Cambridge)
As a true pizza lover, I feel qualified to say that I've always thought that the best pizza in the Boston metropolitan area is Canastaro's (for Neapolitan) pizza, and Ernesto's for the best Sicilian pizza ( the square one) anywhere. (If you're a New Yorker, don't send me e-mails saying that Spumoni Gardens has the best Sicilian pizza anywhere. I ate there last summer, and it doesn't!) Anyway, for the past couple of years, I've been hearing from friends, neighbors, and food critics, that "Emma's Pizza" in Cambridge has the best pizza in the Boston area. We tried it tonight, and it doesn't! It's an extremely thin-crusted, flaky pizza, and if that's what you like, then I will say that it's as good as the thin-crusted pizzas at Todd English's "Figs" and "Woody's" (a favorite with Northeastern students.) But, it's no better than those.
Although I had a traditional Mozzarella and Tomato Sauce Pizza, my friends had different varieties ranging from Smoked Mozzarella, Artichoke Hearts and Garlic, to one that was so colorful in its variety of ingredients, that I had to photograph it! Our wine was a hearty Sangiovese. Anyway, we had a great time!
(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT:MA- REVIEW- "PIERROT BISTROT FRANCAIS"
Feel like having a real French meal in an authentic Parisian bistrot, without spending the $1,000 on that Air France flight? Well then, head over to the back of Beacon Hill to the new restaurant, "Pierrot Bistrot Francais" for the most authentic bistro French food that I've had in America, outside of "Balthazar" and "Pastis" in New York. The ambience in the simple, small dining room is all dark woods and exposed brick, and the wait-staff is right out of Provence. The maitre d' is so French that he requires sub-titles! My hors d'oeuvre was Escargots Bourguignonne. We shared a Salade de Saison avec Chevre Chaud et Pignons. My entree was a Fricassee de Saint Jacques Provencale compote de Fenouil. My dessert was an order of Profiteroles au Chocolat. We shared a delicious Cheese Tray. Our wine was a Chateau Prelzat Cabernet Sauvignon. We both came away from the place stuffed, but very content!
(5- Stars)

RESTAURANT: MA REVIEW- "THE UPPER CRUST"

In my never-ending search to find the best pizza in Boston, tonight, the search brought me to Coolidge Corner in Brookline, to The Upper Crust, "the best pizzeria in Brookline." As soon as I walked through the door and saw the thin-crust pizza being served, I knew that, no matter how good it was, this pizza wouldn't qualify as a "traditional" Neapolitan pizza. I ordered a simple Pizza Margherita (tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil,) and it was delicious. It was better than some of the other thin-crust pizzas around ( Emma's, Woody's, and Figs, ) but it wasn't a traditional pizza. As far as I'm concerned, the best Neapolitan pizza is still served at Canestaro's, and the best Sicilian, at Ernesto's. The search goes on.

(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT:MA REVIEW- "SORRISO"
The Leather District is an out-of-the-way neighborhood down near South Station in Boston. For the past 10 years, the most famous restaurant down there has been Ian Just's fine French restaurant "Les Zygomates." Now, in the cavernous space formerly occupied by the dance clubs Epiphany, and before that Oskar's, Just has opened a sister restaurant to "Les Zygomates," the Italian trattoria. "Sorriso." Designed by Peter Niemitz, the place is quite beautiful, with pumpkin-colored banquettes, dark wood accents, creative chandeliers, and beautiful murals painted on the brick walls. The menu is extensive in both the food and wine areas. We decided to order several of the many piattini, as our appetizers. So, the three of us shared the following dishes: Italian Cheese Fonduta, Arancini, White Bean and Roasted Garlic Puree with Basil Oil, Fried Calamari, the Salumi Plate (Brasaola, Capicola, Soppressate, Mostarda and Prosciutto,) and Meatballs and Chicory in Brodo. All were delicious, especially with the fine Tuscan Bread served at the table. For my entree, I had Monkfish Piccata, with Capers, Mushrooms, and Roasted Gold Potatoes. My dessert was homemade Vanilla and Chocolate Gelati with a Chocolate Biscotti. For our wine, we decided to be a little adventurous, exploring the new area of fine Sicilian wines. Our Colosi Rosso was excellent. If there is anything negative to say about "Sorriso," it's that the service is somewhat erratic, with the wait-staff sometimes there, sometimes not. It was often difficult to find our waiter, but when it came time to leave, they had our coats to us and our taxi waiting, even BEFORE we had paid the bill! Hmmm.
(4 1/2- Stars)

RESTAURANT-MA REVIEW: "SALTS" in Cambridge
Boston/Cambridge are sister cities with well-defined neighborhoods (Back Bay, North End, Beacon Hill, South End, Harvard Square, Faneuil Hall, Central Square, etc.) each of which is filled with famous restaurants. Tucked away in a side-street in Cambridge away from all of these neighborhoods is Boston/Cambridge's best kept secret..."Salts." Chef Gabriel Bemer has been honored by Food & Wine Magazine with their coveted BEST NEW CHEF IN AMERICA award. It's well deserved! The interior of the restaurant looks like a charming bistro on the Left Bank of Paris, and the food is as good as anything you'll have there. I suppose that it could be classified as New American, by way of France and Eastern Europe. On second thought, why try to classify it. It's just superb. After an amuse bouche of Cured Cod with Sliced Potato, my appetizer was a delicious Potage of Jerusalem Artichoke and Vidalia Onion with Black Truffle and Beurre Fondue Poached Lobster. My entree was a Slow Roasted Tasmanian Trout with Potato Gnocchi, Brussels Sprouts Leafs, Spanish Chestnuts and Winter Truffle. On our Cheese Tray we had a Rocbleu and a Tomme d'Abondance. My dessert was a Clementine Tart with Tarragon Foam, Clementine Sorbet, and Pate Brisee. Our wine was a fine Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc. Decor, service, presentation, and of course, the food itself were all top-drawer. A wonderful place. (Make sure you engage the Front Room Manager, Noeli, in conversation. She's a charmer!)
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA:REVIEW- "AMELIA'S KITCHEN"
I don't have any reason to go back to my old neighborhood of 27 years, but I had heard so much about this mom-and-pop restaurant that opened the year that I moved, that I thought that it was time to head back to Somerville, and try it out. The restaurants of Somerville are either old storefronts, if they've been around for ages, or very upscale if they were built after the big Somerville renaissance of 10 years ago. ( The renaissance began the year that I moved!) "Amelia's Kitchen" is only 10 years old, but it looks as though it's been around forever...just a plain storefront, with a few tables inside, and a garden out in the back. Everything about Delio and Amelia Susi's place is homemade on the premises...from the pastas, and the bread, to their own pizza dough...and everything is incredibly delicious, in a very old-fashioned Italian way. Kind of like your own grandmother is in the kitchen cooking (if your grandmother is an old Italian!) There were three of us for dinner, and our table was covered with delicious Arancini, Crisp Calamari coated with a Polenta Batter and served on a Bed of Greens, a thin and light Lasagna Abruzzo, one of the most delicious Potato Gnocchi (served in a brown pottery dish in a Creamy Alfredo-style Sauce) that I've ever had, and homemade cannoli. All of this was served with a fine Trebbiano d'Abruzzo. An old-fashioned dining experience...a true luxury nowadays.
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANTS:MA- REVIEW- "PENGUIN PIZZA"
I've given up trying to find the best pizza in Boston (there are so many good ones,) so now I'll just survey what's out there, and report on it. My survey has taken me to Penguin Pizza, at the foot of the mysterious Mission Hill, and there we discovered one of the best non-traditional thin-crust pizzas in town. My friend and I split a large pizza, with my side being the standard Margarita (basil, mozzarella, and Penguin's own very delicious tomato sauce.) There was nothing bad about this pizza (except that it was thin-crusted, not my favorite type of pizza.) With it we had a strong Shiraz. The restaurant looks more like a pub, and our waitress, complete with Irish brogue (and piercings) completed that image. A colorful place, but because of its location, we drove away Cinderella-like, before it got dark out. I suggest you do the same, unless you're under 30, and armed!
(4-Stars)

RESTAURANTS-MA REVIEW: "ZAFTIG'S"
No, you don't have to go down to New York to get a classic, perfect, pastrami sandwich. Just head over to Coolidge Corner and follow the crowds to Zaftig's Jewish Delicatessen. On entering, we lucked out, because of a hat! There was a crowd at the reservation desk, and as I left my name, I forgot that I was wearing my NicksReviews cap. As the girl at the desk glanced up at the cap, I was told that there would be a half-hour wait for a table, but in two minutes, they called my name. Hell, it may have been a coincidence, but this isn't the first time that this cap "pushed me to the front of the line." People get intimidated so easily. They think I'm a real food critic. Jerks! Anyway, the menu was extensive and very authentic. I ordered a lean Roumanian Pastrami Sandwich with a Pickle and Potato Salad. My drink was a Dr. Brown's Cream Soda. It was exactly as I like it. On the way out, some of the people who were waiting for a table when we came in, were still waiting. There was some grumbling in the ranks, and I felt awful. If you believe that, you don't know me!!!
(4-Stars) They didn't have club. I had to have it on a Bulkie Roll.

RESTAURANT-MA REVIEW: "THE METROPOLITAN CLUB"
The classiest, elegant new restaurant in town is NOT in town, but out in the suburb of Chestnut Hill, the land of fancy prep schools, up-scale malls, and soccer moms. Why they opened out here rather than in one of the De Luxe hotels in town probably has to do with availability and rents, but whatever the reason, it's probably just a matter of time before it makes the move. You can see and feel the class of the place even before you enter its luxurious interior. The exterior looks like "money." When you enter the lobby there's a fire going in the fireplace, and a lot of beautiful people in the large, sleek and sexy bar beyond. These rooms set the tone for the elegant dining room inside. Everything is a dark chocolate color, with lots of wood and leather, and shiny zinc table tops. Huge modern art hangs on the walls. Chef Jeffrey Fournier (formerly of Pignoli and more recently, Sophia's) has created a menu that emphasizes prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood, dressed in gourmet "clothes." We started with a house novelty, Watermelon Steak. It looks like steak, it tastes like steak, but it's watermelon! Braised in cream and sherry until all of the water is drained out of the watermelon, it actually does take on the consistency and taste of steak. It was served with French Feta and Arugula. My primi piatti was Fettucini with 17-minute Marinara Sauce. The sauce is cooked from scratch in-house with all fresh ingredients, and it IS delicious. My entree was Pan-Seared Tilapia with Mango Salsa and New Potatoes. As good as it gets. My dessert was a Trio of Seasonal Sorbets (Coconut, Raspberry, and Rhubarb) with Bite-sized Cookies. Our wine was a medium-bodied Castle Rock Pinot Noir. Before ending, I have to say a word about the service. I can't remember the last time that we had a more knowledgeable, pleasant, and helpful waiter. This man was European and old-school. What a difference that kind of service makes. Bravo!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANTS-MA-REVIEW: "PETIT ROBERT BISTRO"
Jacky Robert , formerly of the now defunct "Maison Robert" (I will never understand why the Robert family closed that beautiful restaurant in the historic Old City Hall building,) has now opened his dream place...a perfect French bistro (with Pierrot Bistro Francais, it's the second bistro to open in a year) in the heart of Boston. Maybe Jacky just wanted to get away from the rest of the family. In any case, this unpretentious little place sits on "the Left Bank" of the newly invigorated Kenmore Square, just a block away from the faux chateau that is the new Hotel Commonwealth. The restaurant is below street level, so after proceeding down a short flight of stairs outside, you enter the upstairs dining room. (Below the dining room there is a Pastry Bar.) The decor is, well, French bistro, with a very casual flair. We ate in the less noisy, less crowded Pastry Bar...a charming room. From the minute we walked in the door, the service was first-class and very friendly. I ordered the Esgargots Bourguignon for my appetizer. We shared a Garden Salad Shallot Vinaigrette with a Panko Crusted Goat Cheese. My entree was the Grilled Wild Salmon Filet, with Thyme Butter Sauce and Mashed Potatoes with Shredded Vegetables. We shared a Cheese Plate, and then I had a Trio of Sorbet for my dessert. Our wine was a full-bodied, delicious Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley. A wonderful evening, in a memorable new restaurant. Did I mention that the place was so crowded that the maitresse d' had to borrow two chairs from our table of four? The word has obviously gotten around.
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANTS-MA REVIEW: "THE WINE CELLAR"

The specialty of this tiny Swiss/French restaurant is wine, obviously, and fondue. My God, when's the last time that you had fondue outside of Switzerland? If you're old enough, you'll remember the fondue craze back in the day, when every young married couple received a fondue pot as a shower, engagement, or even wedding, gift. Well, in the case of this charming, but cramped, Back Bay restaurant, the craze is back! Although there are other items on the menu for each course, we couldn't resist going for the fondues. (Just in case you might not know about fondues, they're served in hot pots brought to the table, and you then dip chunks of bread into the melted cheeses, meat into the boiling olive oil, and strawberries and banana chunks into the melted chocolate/brandy.) For our appetizers, we had the Escargots with Pesto, and the Classic Cheese Fondue. For our entree, we had the Beef Bourguignon Fondue, and for our dessert, we had the Grand Marnier Chocolate Fondue. Complete overkill, and sybaritic joy!!! (I was just reading about Sybaris, as part of the research on our up-coming trip to Italy. I would have loved living there in its ancient glory days.) But, I digress. The meal was delicious, and we washed it down with a terrific appropriate wine-pairing for each course: Chateau Haut Peyruguet 2002 Bordeaux with the Esacargots; Louis Latour Chardonnay 2002 with the Cheeses; Chateau Courlat Bordeaux 2001 with the Beef; and Marquis de la Tour Sparkling with the Chocolate. Owner Thierry Charles should be congratulated for the magnificent pairings of wine and fondues. I'm writing this review late at night, because I'm so damn full, that if I went to bed, I'd probably fall right through the mattress!

(4 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "PIZZA OGGI"
My never-ending search to find the best pizza in Boston has finally ended! The best pizza in Boston, by far, is served in a small take-out joint in Jamaica Plain, where there are no tables, just a small counter, and about 6 square feet of waiting space where the orders are taken. There are only 6 pizzas on the menu, and they don't deliver. We ordered the plainest of the six...Tomato, Mozzarella, Roasted Garlic and Fresh Basil. Although it was shaped like a large amoeba, it was perfection. The semolina dough produced the finest crust that I've ever tasted, and the ingredients were so fresh, that they produced a taste that elevated the pizza into a different category. As I said to my friend as we were eating it, "this pizza is serious."
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "BYBLOS" (in Norwood, MA)
My friend Omar, (who IS Lebanese,) has been telling us about this famous Lebanese restaurant in Norwood, (just a short drive from Boston,) for awhile now, and last night, he invited me, and two special guests, to join him there for a lavish Levantine feast. It was all that he said it would be and more. As soon as you set foot in the restaurant, the atmosphere is a Middle Eastern one, because of the decor, the live music, and the aromas floating around the spacious rooms. It was difficult to choose our dishes from the extensive menu, because there were so many wonderful foods from which to choose. So, for an appetizer, Omar ordered several Mezzah Platters for the table. (They consisted of hommus, baba ghannouj, fattoush, potato salad, shanklish, and a stuffed artichoke.) It was enough for a dinner!! My entree was Kafta Kabob (beef sirloin seasoned with special spices and ground with fresh onions and parsley...skewered and broiled.) This was served with a Salad with Feta Cheese and Crisp Fries. My desserts were a Lebanese Baklawa (less sweet than the Greek version,) and Katayef (a Lebanese "pancake" stuffed with Byblos Cream Cheese. It was like a soft cannoli! ) With all of this, our table was served a Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon. It was delicious AND reasonable...unusual for a Mondavi. In addition to the incredible food, there was a belly dancer, and our waitress was charming and attentive. All in all, a fun, memorable night.
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "DOMANI"
Like the ubiquitous Donato Deserio in New York, chef/owner Rene Michelena likes to buy a place, set up a fine kitchen in that place, and then move on, leaving behind a well-established new restaurant. I became aware of this fine chef when he was at "La Bettola" in the South End. Then, I followed him to "Centro" in Cambridge, "The Vault" in the financial district, "Saint" in the Copley Square Hotel, and now, "Domani." The man has a case of culinary ADD! The present restaurant located on the street-corner above "Saint," is an upscale trattoria, with large windows opening onto a sidewalk cafe on the beautifully gentrified Huntington Avenue. The interior of this small, but already trendy place, uses warm wood tones and orange accents, to recreate the earthy atmosphere of a sophisticated cafe on the Via Veneto in Rome. (Don't miss the red Vespa in the framed alcove.) Graphics of random numbers and letters spill across walls and onto the velvet banquettes; curvy waves of white plaster covered the wall behind us. The menu is Italian, of course, but with Michelena, it's never the usual Italian. Everything is just slightly different than what you'd expect. For an appetizer, I chose the small Margherita Pizzette because I wanted to see what he could do with a pizza. It was delicious. For the pasta course, I had Polenta Gnocchi with Artichokes, Wild Leeks and Prosciutto. My secondi was Roasted Chicken with Lemongrass, Nutmeg, Rapini, and Lemon Thyme Risotto Cake. All in all enough carbs to last me a week! My dessert was a Raspberry and Strawberry Gelato with Shortbread Cookies. We shared a Banana Butterscotch Napoleon. Once again, our wine was the light red Nero D'Avola from Sicily. A nice new addition to the Back Bay dining scene, and so much classier than the noisy and ugly sports bar that it replaced!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "CRAZY DOUGH'S"
"Voted unanimously America's PIZZA OF THE YEAR, by 5 judges at the prestigeous 2004 International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas"
Who am I to argue with 5 judges at a Pizza Expo? It may not be the best pizza that I've ever tasted, but it sure comes close if it isn't! I had a delicious Margarita, with the freshest of ingredients, such as sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, parmesan cheese and chopped garlic. While waiting for our large pizza (my friend's half was covered with pepperoni, sausage, and seasoned ground beef,) we shared a large Sicilian slice of Nutty Tuscan (roasted plum tomatoes, caramelized onion, roasted garlic, toasted pine nuts, crumbled gorgonzola, fresh basil, and pesto.) Just perfect. I can't wait to go back to try a regular Sicilian pizza, to see if it's better than my favorite, Ernesto's, in the North End.
(4 1/2- Stars)

RESTAURANT-MA REVIEW: "EASTERN STANDARD"

Kenmore Square, in the heart of Boston University territory, has been transformed from a sleazy, down-at-the-heels second-rate Boston square into a place to go for fine dining and a pleasant walk-around. Much of this change is due to the opening of the chateau-like Hotel Commonwealth, which occupies most of the Square. It contains a fine seafood restaurant, "Great Bay," a new trendy lounge, "The Foundation Lounge," and now, a Parisian restaurant, "Eastern Standard." Looking, inside and out, very much like the Cafe de la Paix in Paris, you're immediately swept away from Boston to the streets of Paris. On the street-side, there is an al fresco cafe under large red awnings. On the inside, is a cavernous Art Deco restaurant. Think Balthazar in New York or one of the grand cafes of the "city of lights." The mastermind behind this wonderful place, is Garrett Harker, partner to Barbara Lynch in such ventures as "No. 9 Park," "B & G Oysters," and "The Butcher Shop." Although Parisian in appearance, the menu is distinctly American, albeit gourmet American. My appetizer was a beautifully presented order of Salt Cod Fritters. There was an amuse-bouche of Crudites for the table. The entrees were Beef Wellington with Mashed Potatoes, one of my favorites, and all-too-rarely seen on menus. Our desserts were Sorbets (Watermelon, Pineapple, and Strawberry.) Our wine was a South African Pinot Grigio. Everything was delicious. I have to say a word about the charming wait-staff. From the two young ladies at the reservations desk, to the statuesque maitress d', to our lovely waitress, all were charming, helpful, attentive, and quite attractive. This certainly added to the dining experience. All in all, an excellent dining experience...and in Kenmore Square of all places!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "TRATTORIA TOSCANA"
I've walked past this new restaurant, on my way to the movies, at least once or twice, without even noticing it, and yet this little hole-in-the-wall serves some of the best Tuscan food that I've tasted outside of Florence and Siena! Forget about the decor....there isn't any. This place is all about the food, and there, it excels. When we were given the menu, and I saw the dish, Ribolitta on it, I knew that this was the real thing. One almost never sees this bread soup (with white beans, carrots, celery, cabbage and saltless bread,) outside of Tuscany. Of course, I ordered it. My appetizer was Prosciutto di Parma, with Juicy Tomatoes and Fresh Mozzarella. It was SO fresh. For the next course, I had the Ribolitta. The soup was hearty, dense, and earthy, nothing watery about THIS dish. For my entree I had Rigatoni alla Norcina, or Rigatoni with Sweet Italian Sausage. It was incredible. The sausage was ground, not sliced, and mixed in "soffrito," a base of onions, carrots, and celery, with a dash of white wine. The mix gave the sausage an intense, meaty flavor, and there was no irritating sausage casing to deal with. Speaking of wine, our wine was a delicious Vernaccia di San Gimignano. For dessert, we had Limoncello and Chocolate Tartufi. This place is a real find. It's not Italian-American...it's Italian!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT- MA REVIEW: "STELLA"
Is this beautiful corner in Boston's South End jinxed? First there was "Blackstone on the Square." It closed. Then there was the fine French restaurant "Gallia." It closed. The Delutys (who own the 5-star "Torch" on Beacon Hill) are taking a chance, but it seems to be paying off. Ever since it opened just three months ago, crowds (the young, the gay, the suburbanites, and the hip) have been jamming the place. It's the place to be this summer. First of all, the owners have changed the look of the place entirely. The dark tones of "Gallia" have been scrubbed, in favor of white, white, white. It looks like the bedrooms of the Delano in South Beach! It works. (Maybe this is a world-wide trend, because I just came back from Italy where I ate a fabulous meal in the very-white dining rooms of the incredible "Don Alfonso 1890" in Sant Agata.) Then there's the food. Chef Joe Cassinelli (formerly of the theater district's "Teatro,) has whipped up a fine menu of light Italian appetizers, followed by more substantial entrees. The grilled pizzas are also very popular...at least lots of people were eating them tonight. My appetizer was one of the pizze...a Grilled Gorgonzola, Prosciutto, Arugula, and Pinot Nero reduction Pizza. It was huge, and delicious. My entree was Orecchiette with Smoked Salmon, Summer Peas, Lemon, and Creme Fraiche. My dessert consisted of Two Cannoli (made by Caffe Vittoria in the North End.) Our wine was a Torre de Greco White, from the Campania region of Italy. (That's the Amalfi region.) All in all, a fine dining experience, and in the summer, when the outdoor dining patio is open, this new restaurant is a fine addition to Blackstone Square. Now, if they could only get rid of the bums and winos who hang out there at night!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT-MA REVIEW: "MARE"
First there was "Bricco," then "Umbria," and now "Mare." Executive Chef Marisa Iocco has done it again. She sets up a new restaurant, and then leaves it in the comfortable hands of a trusted chef. In this case, chef de cuisine Jeffrey Michaud. The location is perfect...on the corner of Richmond and North Streets in the North End, just down the block from Paul Revere's house. The look is modern...chrome and glass, with windows that wrap around the corner building. The food is alta cucina, with claims to be Boston's first 98% organic ingredient list, based entirely on certified organic seafood from the U.S. and Italy, and organic vegetables, whole grain pastas, hormone-free beef, etc. You get the picture. The taste of the food is absolutely delicious. In my appetizer of Bufala Mozzarella with Heirloom Tomatoes, my tomatoes looked and tasted like those that I had in Italy a few weeks ago. My entree consisted of three different kinds of "left-over" pasta with zucchini and peas, in a light cream sauce. I don't remember what the waitress called it, but it was excellent...and very filling. My dessert was a Chocolate Polenta Souffle with Vanilla Gelato. Our wine was a Sicilian White. In addition to the freshness of the ingredients, the emphasis is on presentation. Although the portions are small, everything looks beautiful. In spite of the small portions, I was stuffed when I left. If you're planning to go to "Mare," give it a couple of weeks. They're still ironing out the kinks. (The air-conditioning, and some of the electricity in the kitchen went out while we were there! The maitresse d' had to open all of the windows to the street, bringing in a welcoming breeze and adding to the atmosphere of the place.)
(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT-MA REVIEW: "NEPTUNE OYSTER"
This tiny 40-seater (including 12 stools at the zinc bar) has become the hottest new restaurant in the already inundated North End. Last night, it was filled by 5:30, and turning people away by 6. Judging by the number of young attractive couples dining there last night, it would seem that some people still believe in the aphrodisiac qualities of oysters! For some reason (maybe perceived cleanliness) I love the look of tile in a seafood restaurant, and "Neptune Oyster" is virtually all tile. There are only four large marble-slabbed tables in the place, so you're dining communal style. No problem. The service is top-notch...our waitress was attractive, knowlegeable, and attentive. As far as the menu goes, no, it's not ALL oysters. In fact, I hate oysters, and I had a perfectly wonderful meal. My appetizer was Crab Cakes over Seasoned Tomato Salad. My entree was Flounder Veronique with Green Grapes, Lump Crab, Capers, and Basil. The freshness of the fish, and the seasonings added to them by master Chef David Nevins, couldn't have been bettered anywhere. Our wine was a perfect Orvieto Classico. Following the tradition of most North End restaurants, no desserts are served, so we went down the block for some of the North End's excellent Cannolis. It's summer and so a feast was in progress. (There's a street festival every weekend in the summer.) We didn't stay around for this, although I would have liked to have heard the live performances of Al Martino and Frankie Avalon!!! I intend to come back NEXT weekend for the big Feast of St. Anthony, Boston's answer to New York's San Gennaro Feast. Joni James and Jerry Vale will be live in performance. If you're under 50, you've never heard of any of these once-great stars. So, come for the oysters and fish, not the "stars."
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANTS MA-REVIEW: "ZAFFERANO"
In terms of driving time, I suppose there are some restaurants in neighboring Rhode Island and New Hampshire that are closer to where I live than is this off-the-beaten-path "mama-papa" place in the Orient Heights area of East Boston. But, because I had heard that this newly-opened, but old-school restaurant, specialized in the foods of the Campania area of Italy, and I recently returned from there, I thought that it might be worth the trip. Was it? Absolutely! Chef Pietro DelViscovo and his wife Giuseppina (who handles the dining room and makes all the desserts,) have created the feel of a restaurant on the Amalfi Coast, with peach-colored stucco walls, and stone floors. All that's missing is the view. There were so many wonderful choices on the menu that it was hard to decide on our dishes, but decide we did. My appetizer was Grilled Eggplant Layered with Mozzarella and Basil. My entree was Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce and Saffron (Zafferano means saffron in Italian.) My dessert was a slice of Neapolitan Ricotta Pie. Our red wine was a classic Lacrima Christi di Vesuvio from Campania. It was as delicious here as it was in Amalfi. Signora DelViscovo gave us a selection of her homemade cookies at the end of the meal. They were perfect. If there was anything wrong with this fine dining experience, it was that the waiters, although they did their job well and were very courteous, were a little too young, and neighborhood "Guido" for such a fine establishment. Other than that, this place is a find...although an out of the way one!
(4 1/2- Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "BACCO"(New)
Ten years ago, when I ate at the restaurant "Sage," it was on the sleepy corner of Prince and Salem streets in the North End; an off-the-beaten-path location, away from the crowds on Hanover Street...the North End's Main Street. Today, the North End has grown into the largest Little Italy in the country, with over 140 restaurants, and there are no more "sleepy corners" or "off the beaten path" locations. Every street is filled with people, and the aromas of fine cooking. "Bacco" has replaced "Sage," and this two-story corner building is alive with vibrant decor (both inside and out,) fresh menu choices each month, and a personal flair for creativity. The exterior of the building is so colorful, with large open windows filled with flowers, on each floor, that it beckons you in...IF you have a reservation, that is. It's extremely popular. The hostess at the door was charming (and she had great legs!) After being escorted past the mahogany and granite bar on the ground floor, up to the more formal dining room on the 2nd floor, we were given the menu, and were almost overwhelmed by the many choices. We were also overwhelmed by the noise level of the room, and the fact that the service was so slow, that I almost started to nibble on the table edge! Once started however, things were just fine. My appetizer was an Antipasto of Roasted and Marinated Summer Vegetables with Imported Meats and Cheeses. My entree was a dish of Three Preparations of Summer Tomatoes with Risotto and 22-Year Balsamic. We shared an order of Crispy Calamari with Spicy Tomato Relish. My dessert was a Chocolate Ganache Tart with Caramel Sauce. Our wine was a Pinot Grigio. Another fine addition to the colorful North End scene.
(4-Stars)

RESTAURANTS MA-REVIEW: "INTERMISSION TAVERN"

What used to be a sleazy little bar in the Theater District, is now a sleazy little restaurant in the Theater District. The difference is that it now has decent food...a good place to stop before a show, if you don't want to stuff yourself at one of the more famous ethnic restaurants in the area. Actually, to be fair, it's really not very "sleazy" anymore; it's been cleaned up and painted over, and the food is just fine for a comfort-food menu. I love Meat Loaf, and that's what I ordered as my entree. It came with Mashed Potatoes and Lemon Asparagus, and it was good, but not terrific. (My appetizer was a salad of Bufala Mozzarella and Heirloom Tomatoes with Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing. ) My dessert was a Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake. The main problem with this new little place, is that the service is just awful. It was a chore trying to make eye contact with one of the three waitresses in this full house, just to get some bread and water. At least the bathrooms were new and clean!

(2-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "MAMMA MARIA"
I haven't been back to eat at this North End landmark for at least 25 years, so I thought that it was time to go back and check out what travel guru Arthur Frommer has called the "best restaurant in the North End, and possibly in Boston;" (Frommer's Boston 2005.) The 19th Century brick row-house sits on historic North Square, just across the square from Paul Revere's house. It's divided up into several charming dining rooms (all named after composers of operas,) spread out over the three floors of the townhouse. In this world-class restaurant, the menu is Italian "alta-cucina" (high-quality gourmet cooking.) It most closely resembles similar menus in the high-end dining palaces of Italy itself. After being seated in the charming Verdi Room, we ordered our meal. My appetizer was a dish of Divers Scallops with Risotto. My entree was Free-Range Chicken with Seasonal Vegetables and Roasted Potatoes. My dessert was a Chocolate Torte with Mint Gelato. Our wine was a Pinot Grigio from Friuli. Everything was delicious. Frommer may be right!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "RUTH'S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE"
Although its grand opening was delayed for almost a year, this world famous steak house has finally opened, in the majestic spaces formerly occupied by "Maison Robert" in the historic Old City Hall. Was it worth the wait? Absolutely! First of all, where the decor of "Maison Robert" contradicted the beautiful architecture of this magnificent landmark building, "Ruth's Chris Steak House" compliments it. Upon entering the restaurant, one is confronted with the classic look of burnished woods, leather, exposed brick, and polished brass. There is a sophisticated bar, "Curley's" (named for Boston's infamous former mayor, James Curley,) and six dining rooms. Once seated comfortably in The Board Room, we were presented with the extensive menu. The emphasis, of course, is on steak. I chose the huge Filet (hardly mignon!) with Potatoes Au Gratin and Creamed Spinach New Orleans, as my entree. My appetizer was a large order of Jumbo Crab Cakes. I had some Raspberry Sorbet as my dessert. My wine was a lusty Syrah. Everything was first rate, including the service (especially our charmer of a waitress, Tatiana,) and the presentation. I would have to say that this new steak house in town is an instant success, and moves right up into the Big 5 of Boston's Fine Steakhouses, along with "Mortons," "Grill 23 & Bar," "The Oak Room," and "Smith & Wollensky's." That's incredible company for a newcomer!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "MARCO CUCINA ROMANO"
Go into the North End (Boston's 140-restaurant Little Italy,) down Hanover Street, and up that tall flight of stairs leading to the space formerly occupied by the charming "Trattoria a Scalinatella." In what was once a dark cavern with a fireplace at one end, owner/chef Marc Orfaly (owner/chef of the successful "Pigalle,") introduces his second restaurant (and his first Italian restaurant,) to Boston. It's no longer a dark stone room with a fireplace. Now, it's cheerful and charming. This trattoria-style place features the rustic regional flavors of Rome...and they are incredible! A fine menu of hand-made pasta dishes, antipasti, insalate and secondi piatti (main dishes) complements the extensive wine list. The service, ambience, and presentation are all first class, and the food is excellent. Starting off, we were served a Caponata with Rosemary Focaccia Bread for the table. It was so delicious that we kept asking for more. My appetizer was Artichoke Hearts with Goat Cheese. My entree was a huge Risotto with Truffles and Mushrooms alla Romano. Our wines were a perfect Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and a hearty, smooth Sicilan Corlozzi (Rosso.) No desserts, because we bought Macaroons downstairs at Modern Pastry, and then came back to my place for Cheese and Limoncello. A perfect ending to a perfect evening!
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT-MA REVIEW: "DARWIN'S" (in Harvard Square)
Back in the day (the 60's) when the name "Kennedy" was still a name to be reckoned with, and Harvard Square had the unique charm of a Dickensian gathering place, "Elsie's" was the sandwich shop of choice, famous for its roast beef sandwiches. Today, when the name Kennedy doesn't mean American Royalty anymore, but rather a fat, windbag senator whose every word is an embarrassment, and Harvard Square has become a glorified outdoor mall....the sandwich shop of choice is "Darwin's" on Mt. Auburn Street. This is the place for gourmet sandwiches filled with the freshest meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The sandwiches are named after the famous streets of Cambridge. Although the tourists to the school and the neighborhood don't seem to be aware of this jewel yet, the natives certainly are, and it's packed everyday for lunch. So get there early, and bring your appetite; everything is delicious.
(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "THE MISSION BAR & GRILL"

On Mission Hill, one of Boston's "neighborhoods in transition," gunshots alternate with wine corks popping out of bottles at fine restaurants. Tucked amongst the triple-deckers, the Victorians, and the big cathedral on the Hill, is "The Mission Bar & Grill," the newest of these restaurants. In a space formerly occupied by a sleazy bar named "The Chopping Block," "The Mission" is surprisingly wonderful. With beautiful decor to rival anything in the more upscale North or South Ends, "The Mission" has a menu that could be called "American Gourmet." My appetizer was a Salad of Arugula, Pecorino, Romano, Walnuts and Balsamic Dressing. My entree was a Grilled Salmon with Marinated Winter Vegetables and Asparagus Spears. No dessert...still dieting, sort of. (Actually, they don't serve dessert!) My wine was a fine Sauvignon Blanc. It's restaurants such as this one, that help to gentrify a neighborhood. Hopefully, more will follow.

(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "RENDEZVOUS"

Believe it or not, what was once a cheesy, sleazy Burger King, is now the most beautiful new restaurant in Central Square in Cambridge, since "The Enormous Room" opened ages ago. Chef/Owner Steve Johnson (formerly of "Hamersley's" and "The Blue Room,") has transformed this place into a destination to be reckoned with. This time, however, he's not behind the stove, as he was in "The Blue Room," but his chef Deepak Kaul certainly is in sync with his boss. The food is exquisite! The room has a minimalist look, done up in browns, woods and mustards, with streaks of orange. It's comfortable, but something is missing; I'm not sure what. But there's nothing missing with the food, the presentation, or the service. All are top-drawer. The menu leans to Mediterranean, with hints of the Middle East. My appetizer was an Early Spring Vegetable Antipasto with Roasted Eggplant Puree. My entree was a Grilled Alaskan King Salmon with Curry Leaves, Basmati Rice & Mustard Butter Sauce. No dessert, as I'm still sort of dieting. (Just three more pounds to go before I lose the full 24 pounds that I gained last year!) Our wine was an absolutely delicious Feudo D'Elimi Sicilian Red. I love these new Sicilian wines; so smooth! By the way, if you're lucky enough NOT to be dieting, order the Chocolate Cake with Hazelnut Pralines and Cinnamon Cream; it's supposed to be delicious!

(4 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: “SORELLINA”

Take a trip with me to Back Bay Boston, then walk up the beautiful part of Huntington Avenue to the western end of Copley Square, and there, in that up-scale celebrity-filled condo behind the Library, is Jamie Mammano’s (“Mistral,” “Teatro,”) new restaurant “Sorellina.” The room (all blacks and whites) is stunning, with massive white columns and a black ceiling. White leather banquettes are spaced nicely around the room, backed by a huge photograph of an impressionistic garden (once again in black and white.) It’s the kind of room that makes you glad that you wore a suit! In its brother restaurant “Mistral,” the fare is French, while here, it’s alta cucina Italian. My appetizer was an order of Verdure (Green Beans, Sunchokes, Artichokes, and Black Olive Vinaigrette,) and my entree was Grilled Salmon with Pancetta, Ceci, and Dragoncello Butter. Both were absolutely delicious, and very filling. Our wine was a wonderful Montepulciano D'Abruzzo. Because our tables were close to the tables on either side of us, we soon engaged in conversation with the two women on one side (one of whom was a charming doctor with issues,) and the architect and his documentarian girlfriend on the other side. Across the room was one of the two brothers from Jordan's Furniture. (The one with the pony-tail) It's that kind of a place, and in spite of that, I loved it!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA- REVIEW: “ECLANO”

What can a new restaurant add to the already bustling restaurant scene in the largest “Little Italy” in the world…Boston’s North End, with its 140 restaurants? Well, I’m not sure that this simple, straightforward storefront adds anything new, except possibly the owner’s commitment to very serious dining. The décor is simple and straightforward, with a 50-seat dining room with leather-covered banquettes, oak chairs at 12 tables, wooden paneling below wainscoting and pale yellow walls. If the décor is simple and straightforward, the food certainly isn’t. The menu is lush and inviting. While we were reading it, we were presented with a bowl of a variety of large olives floating in briny olive oil, and warm, crusty bread. From this menu I finally chose Rabbit Sausage as an appetizer. This was accompanied by garlicky sautéed broccoli rabe. It almost filled me up. But, I forced myself to continue. For a salad I had Hearts Of Romaine Dressed with Roasted Garlic, Lemon and Aged Cheese. For an entree, I had Pan-Seared Halibut with Yellow Peppers and Fava Beans. My dessert was a Citrus Tiramisu with Lemon Biscotti. Our wine was a delicious Chianti Riserva Sensi. I must say that our dining experience was enhanced by the charm and sociability of the maitress d' Caterina, who would be an asset to any restaurant.

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "dante"

The Royal Sonesta Hotel sits on a prime location on the Charles River. It's windows, terraces, and restaurant overlook the River, the entire skyline of Back Bay Boston, and the charming, historic Longfellow Bridge. Replacing "Davio" as the main restaurant of the hotel, is "dante," the brainchild of Dante de Magistris. It's his first restaurant in America. When he was only in his 20's, chef Magistris was the sous-chef at the world famous, incomparable "Don Alfonso1890" restaurant in Sant' Agata, on the Amalfi Coast, (arguably, Italy's finest restaurant...where a few of us were lucky enough to have dined last summer.) From there, he came to Boston, where he was the chef at "blu," "cafe Louis," and "The Federalist." Now, with the help of his brothers Damian and Filippo (who have also worked in some of New York and Boston's finest restaurants,) they have established "dante" as the new "destination restaurant." The decor is dramatically stark and minimalist, reflecting the colors of the River outside of its large windows. There are eight separate spaces, including two dining areas, two bars, two lounges, a balcony, and an outdoor dining patio overlooking the Charles River. Some of the unusual features of the decor include a concrete bar, imported Italian leather dining chairs and bar stools, and special stained compressed bamboo dining tables. On the walls, are paintings from the world-renowned art collection of Sonesta owners, Roger and Joan Sonnabend. The food is inspired by the Mediterranean....classic Italian, French and Spanish, and it is magnificent. After an amuse-bouche of Chicken Rillet and Fava Beans, my appetizer was Escargot with Truffle-Whipped Potato Spuma, Candied Lemon and Garlic Crumbs. My pasta course was Potato Gnocchi with Cheese Sauce, Porchetta, Sweet Peas and Fava Beans. My entree was Porcini Crusted Scallops with Truffled Tapioca, Fava Puree, and Soft Vidalia Onions. My dessert was a Chocolate Mousse Tart with Frozen Creme Fraiche and Sliced Strawberries and Tangerines. Our wine was a delicious, but potent, Cotes-du-Rhone Burgundy. Everything about this place reeked of class, including the chef, who came to our table to sign a menu from "Don Alfonso" which I had brought with me. Tacky, but effective. Dante was very surprised and impressed, and took the menu into the kitchen where all of the sous-chefs stopped their work to read it. We all have our weaknesses. Mine was the length of this review. Sorry!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANTS MA-REVIEW: "Cafe D"

When Doug Organ's Jamaica Plain restaurant, "Arbor" first opened a few years ago, it was named as "one of the best newcomers in America" by GQ magazine. We ate there and agreed with them. Therefore, I was surprised to hear the news that Organ was closing it down, renovating it, and reopening it as a less expensive "cafe," albeit with most of the menu items from "Arbor" intact. According to Organ, "Arbor" was doing "no business on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights!" Now, as "Cafe D," it looks like an elegant cafe, with foreign newspapers papering the walls, modern art and colorful murals, and mismatching chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. In spite of all of this, (or maybe because of it,) it still looks very "uptown." Thankfully, the food is still exceptionally good (the same chefs from Arbor are in the kitchen,) and now they're doing great business during the middle of the week. Good for them! My appetizer was a beautifully seasoned Steak Tartare with Olives, Capers, Herbs, Aioli and Toasts. My entree was a Roasted Monkfish with French Green Lentils, Sesame Roasted Asparagus and Moroccan Charmoula Sauce. Delicious! My dessert was a creamy delicate Italian Rice Pudding ringed with Marinated Cherries. It was one of the best desserts that I've ever had. Our wine was an exceptional Australian Shiraz. It would appear that chef/owner Doug Organ made the right decision. Less really Is more!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "OM Restaurant and Lounge"

From the minute that you walk through those heavy wooden doors (in fact, even before that,) you can see that the owners of "OM" have spent a great deal of money on this new Harvard Square restaurant, to give it a distinctive look. Inside those carved wooden doors, is a darkened lobby with a waterfall, that opens into a lavish lounge and upstairs dining room, filled with the owners personal collection of Tibetan art (sculptures and paintings.) Add some flowers and candles, and you've got "a look." In my case, I was thankful that the food wasn't Tibetan as well! Instead, it's an unusual type of American Nouvelle, where several of the dishes are deconstructed (the ingredients are on the plate, but YOU have to blend them to create your own version of a classic dish.) We started our meal with an amuse-bouche of Shrimp, Squid and Ham with Couscous. My appetizer was a Deconstructed Caesar Salad. It was fun putting it all together, including the Coddled Egg, the Anchovies, and the Croutons. My entree was Grilled Steak and Eggs ( a Grilled Filet Mignon with Fried Truffle Egg, Yukon Potato Puree, Asparagus Spears, and Bordelaise Sauce.) My dessert was Carrot Cake with Parsnip Ice Cream, Creme Fraiche Icing, Toasted Walnuts and Habanera Chili Caramel Sauce. Our wine was a hearty Brunello di Montalcino. For some strange reason, if you go to OM early, the restaurant is filled with families with children, albeit well-behaved ones. So, go after 7pm. That aside, the place is a perfect place for fine, gourmet dining.

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "BASTA PASTA"

When you come up to this Cambridge hole-in-the-wall, resist the temptation to turn around and go elsewhere. It looks like a cheap sub-shop...a dive. But, it most definitely isn't! Go in, pass the self-serve drink refrigerator, the take-out counter, the pizza oven, and grab a seat at one of the basic tables. As soon as you see the menu, you'll know that this isn't what you thought it was. Chef/owner Reno Hoxallari has cheffed at some of Boston's finest restaurants and his menu selections show what he can do. My appetizer was an order of Crispy-crusted Mini Arancini with Fontina Cheese. After an appetizer of rice I should have chosen a different entree, but you know that I can't resist a good risotto! My entree was the White Risotto with Prosciutto, Goat Cheese, and Lemon Thyme. I probably won't have a bowel movement for weeks!!! (When's the last time you saw that sentence in a restaurant review?) In any case, everything was absolutely delicious...and ridiculously inexpensive. How refreshing.

(3-Stars) Hell, I had to take something off for decor, right?

RESTAURANTS MA-REVIEW: "TRESCA"

The most elegant restaurant in Boston's North End, "Via Valverde," has just changed management. The new owner is the former captain of the Boston Bruins, Ray Bourque. Because Bourque was a silent partner in the original restaurant, not much will change behind the scenes, where it counts. "Tresca" now sets the standard for excellence in the North End, as "Via Valverde" did before. The decor is still palatial, and service and presentation are still top-drawer. The major differences between the "Via Valverde" of the past, and the present-day "Tresca," is that, where the former had a "jacket-and-tie" dress code, the latter is "anything goes," and the present restaurant for some reason is LOUD, very loud, and somewhat boisterous. But, it's the food that counts, and the food at "Tresca" is every bit as good as it was at "Via Valverde." My appetizer was a Capesante Veneziane (large native sea scallops pan-seared in a tomato and shellfish broth infused with saffron and thyme.) My entree was Risotto con Aragosta (fresh Maine lobster simmered with Vialone Nano risotto in a basil tomato broth.) I ordered the Cheese and Fruit Plate for dessert. Our wine was a delicious Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

(4-Stars) (Those bachelorette parties were really LOUD!!)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "LULU'S BAKE SHOPPE"

If you're in the North End in Boston, and you're looking for an alternative to Modern Pastry or Mike's, try the little shop on Hanover Street that looks like it belongs on the Main Street at DisneyWorld. It's tiny, decorated to look like an old-fashioned kitchen, and it's filled with the most delicious old-fashioned American baked goods. There are chocolate-chip cookies (and every other type of all-American cookie,) brownies, shortbread, cheesecake squares, and trays filled with freshly-baked cupcakes. I had a chocolate cupcake, with marshmallow filling. Yum, Yum!

(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "CAFE POLONIA"

If you need a break in your routine of dining out at one of Boston's fine steakhouses, or Italian, French, and seafood restaurants, why not try a Polish dinner, at Boston's only authentic Polish restaurant, the charming Cafe Polonia in "Southie?" Just a short cab-ride from the center of Boston, one steps into what could be a tiny restaurant in any city in Poland. The walls are stone, and the seats and tables are polished oak, with seats covered in woven pillows. There are artifacts from Poland on the walls, and up on the shelf above. Up above us, is a picture of the former president of Poland, Lech Welesa, when he dined here three years ago. The beautiful, charming hostess/waitress seats us, and after studying the menu, I selected the following: my soup was a delicious Sour Pickle and Potato Soup. My appetizer was a Half Ring of Grilled Fresh Kielbasa with Mustard and Horseradish. My entree was an order of 8 Pierogi...Cheese, Potato and Cheese, and Cabbage and Mushrooms. My dessert was Szarlotka (Warm Polish Apple Cake served with Whipped Cream.) Our beverage was a Polish Beer. My friend Krys is fluent in Polish, and having him with me, conversing with our lovely hostess in Polish, added to the whole dining experience. Moral: if you decide to eat there, go with a Pole or a Polish-American; it's more fun!

(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT REVIEW: "HOBSON'S CHOICE" (in Williamstown,MA)

A local favorite for many years, I can't understand why I've never been here before. It's a real treasure! "Hobson's Choice" is a rustic bistro that serves healthy, country fare. The decor is wood, wood, and more wood! We sat in a nook for four, with high-backed wooden seats with soft pillows on each seat. Our waitress was a charming, smart local girl...probably a student at Williams College. After a delicious wholesome Garden Salad with Bleu Cheese Dressing & Croutons, I had a Grilled Mahi Mahi with Putanesca Sauce, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Grilled Zucchini. My dessert was the specialty of the house...Mud Pie. Our wine was a fine Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay. An excellent dinner for our first night in Williamstown on this trip. The fresh mountain air makes you want to eat more than you should...and we did!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "AVILA"

Why would an enterprising entrepreneur like Steve DiFilippo chose to open a new restaurant just a few blocks away from his record-breaking place, "Davio's?" I have no idea, but Boston diners should be thankful that he did, because "Avila" is quite wonderful. Featuring the cuisine of five Mediterranean countries--Portugal, Spain, Greece, Italy, and France--dinner at "Avila's" is like eating at a Michelin-star restaurant in Europe. Chef Rodney Murillo uses traditional Mediterranean recipes, but gives the resulting dishes a modern presentation and uses the best ingredients available anywhere. When you enter the restaurant, there's a sense of deja vu about it, because it does resemble "Davio's" in size and decor, with the kitchen at center stage, as it is at "Davio's." But, getting back to the food, for an appetizer, I chose Escargots, with Fennel, Garlic Butter, Pernod and Parsley. We shared a portion of Davio's Hand Rolled Gnocchi with Basil, Shaved Parmigiano and White Truffle Oil. They were every bit as good as I remember them being at Davio's. My entree was Za 'atar Spiced Black Pearl Salmon with Roasted Garlic Pepper Cream, and Feta Cheese Risotto. My dessert was a Tray of Twelve Greek, Italian, and French Miniature Pastries. Our wine was a hearty Montepulciano. A fine addition to the dining scene in the Theatre District.

(5-Stars)

BAR AND RESTAURANT REVIEW: SAUCIETY & THE BIRCH BAR
When that magnificent new 2-million-square-foot Convention & Exhibition Center opened on the South Boston Waterfront, it needed some company out there in that once-deserted neighborhood. Now it has that company, by way of the Westin Waterfront Hotel. In the soaring atrium of this glass marvel, is a "forest" of birch trees, and nestled in that forest is The Birch Bar. What a wonderful place to go for a getaway from the hectic craziness of the downtown, South End, North End, or Back Bay bar scene, or for a pre-dinner drink before dining at Sauciety, the gourmet American grill at this hotel. That's exactly what we did, and were rewarded with a fine pre- and-after-dinner drink experience (Birch Bar also has an excellent bar menu,) as well as an exceptional dining experience at Sauciety. The decor is "simple, but very elegant," with oversized windows overlooking the waterfront. The culinary twist at this restaurant is simple. The meat and fish entrees can each be matched with any two of the 15 different sauces offered, from a tempting lemon artichoke emulsion to a spicy black currant glaze, served separately for easy sharing. Each dish comes with the chef's suggested sauce pairing. My appetizer was an unexceptional Caesar Salad with Shaved Grana Podana, and Crispy Lemon. My entree was a Grilled King Salmon with the Lemon Artichoke Emulsion Sauce and the Chimichurri Sauce. My dessert was a "Make-Your-Own-Sundae," with Vanilla Ice Cream, Strawberries and Blueberries, Oreos, ButterCrunch Candy, and Burnt Vanilla, Toffee, and Chocolate Syrups. Yikes! So, if you're looking to feel that you're far away from Boston for just one night, this hotel, this restaurant, and this bar are the places to be.
(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "L' ESPALIER"

In my on-going survey of the world's finest restaurants, I thought that I should pay a long-delayed return (I haven't been there in 20 years) visit to what is arguably the finest restaurant in Boston, and one of the finest in the world. Housed in an 1880 Back Bay townhouse, the restaurant looks elegant before you've even set foot inside the iron gates at the front door. The luxurious appointments of a bygone era usher you into the foyer and dining rooms of this truly magnificent interior space. One may choose to eat in either the Front Room, the Library or the Salon. I chose the Front Room, because, very simply, its beauty is stunning. Picture an elaborate, yet tasteful Victorian dining room in the home of a very wealthy family, and this is it. The taupe and cream room, with its carved marble fireplace, luxurious plasterwork, and views overlooking Gloucester Street has a feeling of classic elegance. Now, to the food. Frank McClelland, world renowned chef/owner has created several prix-fixe dinners. We chose the 3-course dinner (with a few "add-ons.") For starters, there were two amuse-bouches, of several small Napoleons of Salmon and Herbed Cream Cheese, and Tartes of Goat Cheese. Then came the Caviar, with Traditional accompaniments of Capers, Onions, Parsley and Hard-boiled Eggs with Brioche Toast Points! After that, my appetizer was Equinox Field Greens with Buffalo Mozzarella and Balsamic-Marjoram Vinaigrette. My entree was Seared Scallops with Fresh Farmers Beans and Chorizo, in Lemon-Shellfish Broth. Then, another amuse-bouche of Spiced Soba Noodles with Oysters. We had the Cheese Tray which included La Tur, Peve Sauvage, Petit Jurassic, Affidelice, and Bayley Hazen. All were delicious. Our dessert was a Valrhona Dark Chocolate Fondant with Roasted Black Mission Figs, Ginger Almond Crisp and Lemon Verbena Ice Cream. If this weren't enough, a small tray of Petits Fours and Homemade Candies was brought to the table to finish us off! All of this was accompanied by a Westport Rivers (the winery that we visited last Sunday) Chardonnay. Needless to say, everything was sheer perfection...the decor, the impeccable service, the presentation of the food, and the incredible food itself. Save this for a special occasion. It's expensive, but well worth every dollar.

(5-Stars) Sorry for the length of this review; I could have said more!

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "BOUCHEE"

Charles Sarkis and the Back Bay Group ("Abe and Louie's," "Papa Razzi,") have opened an authentic French brasserie, in the style of New York's "Balthazar" and "Pastis," in the place formerly occupied by the now defunct "DuBarry" on Newbury Street. We have several of these bistro-type restaurants in Boston...most recently opened, Jacky Robert's "Petit Robert Bistro," but it's always good to have another one. Hell, Paris is loaded with them, right? In any case, the designers have got the decor right. It looks just like a Parisian bistro/brasserie, with a zinc bar, hardwood floors, and a tin ceiling, dressing up this two-story space on Newbury Street. I had access to the extensive menu for a week, so I was able to study the many wonderful choices offered. In fact there are so many, that it was hard to choose. But choose I did. For an appetizer, I couldn't resist the Escargots in Garlic, Butter and Parmesan Breadcrumbs. We came on a Thursday night, because the Plat du Jour on Thursdays is Imported Dover Sole, one of my favorite dishes, and one that's not always found on menus, except in very expensive places. (In "Alize" in Vegas it cost $70!) Here, it was served with Beurre Meuniere with Fingerling Potatoes, Mushroom Fricassee and Citrus Tapenade. We had the Assiette des Fromages (Cheese Tray,) and then a Sorbet Tasting for dessert. I had a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. It's a noisy place, especially when it starts to fill up (and fill up it did,) but that's what a bistro should be. This one's a goldmine!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: THE NEW FACULTY CLUB at NORTHEASTERN

Whereas the old Faculty Club had old world/ivy league charm, the new Faculty Club has all of the charm of an unoccupied laboratory. With the exception of a view of the downtown skyline out of the 6th floor windows on one wall, the rest of the room is barren. I mean BARREN. No ornamentation whatsoever. Give me back the old Club, now used only for functions. Thankfully, the food and service are excellent.

The buffet consisted of: Antipasta of Cold Cuts, Bufala Mozzarella and Heirloom Tomatoes. The soup was a delicious Vegetable Soup. The entrees were Baked Squash Casserole with Romano Cheese, Zucchini Stuffed Sole in Herbed Cream, Braised Chicken in a Morel Veloute, Smoked Mozzarella and Basil Ravioli with Pomodoro Sauce, and Orange Glazed Sweet Potato Wedges. Our desserts were Boston Cream Pie and Apple Cinnamon Crisp. As I said before, the food and service were just fine (although our waiter got more absent-minded as the meal progressed,) but it didn't make up for the lack of chandeliers hanging from high carved ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces on either end of the room, ceiling-to-floor windows covered with velvet drapes and overlooking The Fens, and huge oil paintings of past presidents of the university. I can't wait to rent the old Club for a private dinner!

(3-Stars)

RESTAURANTS MA-REVIEW: "CLIO"

In between reviewing new restaurants that have opened lately, I've gone back to my list of Boston's 20 Best Restaurants (listed on Restaurants MA on my web-site,) to eat at, and review the 10 restaurants that I ate at before I had a web-site, so there are no reviews posted for them. I'll remedy that. One of my favorites on that list has always been Ken Oringer's "Clio" in the Eliot Hotel. When internationally-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten started here at the now-defunct "Lafayette" restaurant before he became world famous, his sous-chef was Ken Oringer. Chef Oringer learned a lot from the master! His "Clio" is beautiful, elegant, and intimate, with velvet banquettes and large floral arrangements. The menu is small, but filled with superb choices. My appetizer was the Salad of Mesclun, Crisp Vegetables, Herbs and Flowers with Fresh Goat Cheese and Vinaigrette. My entree was Extra Virgin Olive Oil Poached Arctic Char with Kohlrabi, Grapefruit, and White Asparagus. We then selected the Plateau de Fromages (Cheese Tray,) with several fine cow, sheep, and goat cheeses. My dessert was a Caramelized Brioche with Fresh Raspberries and Chocolate Sorbet. Our wine was an excellent, but strong, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Yes, "Clio" is still one of Boston's 20 Best restaurants!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "AUJOURD' HUI" In Boston's Four Seasons Hotel,

walk up the grand staircase with its sweeping views of the Public Garden, off the elegant lobby of the Four Seasons Hotel, and you'll enter the even-more-elegant dining room known as "Aujourd' hui." One of only two restaurants in the entire state of Massachusetts to receive the coveted AAA Five Diamond Award, it was rated #1 in Food, Service & Decor in the 2005 Zagat Survey. The lush decor features oak flooring and rich dark chocolate furnishings, accented with grey and chocolate floral fabrics. Set beneath soaring columns, with Georgia O' Keefe-like black and white paintings hanging on the walls, Rivolta linens dress each tabletop adorned with Ginori china. Chef de Cuisine William Kovel, serves modern French cuisine, prepared with the freshest regional ingredients flown in daily from around the world. In short, the stage is set for a dinner to rival anything served in any of the world's great restaurants. Did it make the grade? Absolutely! My appetizer was Cauliflower Risotto with Baked Truffles. There was a delicious amuse-bouche of Turnip Soup, followed by an entree of Sea Scallops with Truffled Potato Puree, Melted Leeks and Lobster Sauce. Our Cheese Tray consisted of an assortment of Cow, Goat, and Sheep Cheeses with a Goat Cheese Waffle, Nuts, and a Pureed Apricot. My dessert was a Bittersweet Chocolate Truffle Bar with Caramelized Banana and Latte Mascarpone Mousse. Our wine was a strong Sardinian White.

In the 15 years since I've been to this restaurant, the chef has changed, and so has the decor. But everything...food, presentation, and service...are still perfection!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "OLIVES"

Todd English, the "rock star" of the chef world, has opened restaurants all over the world, including one on the Queen Mary II. But this original one in the charming old neighborhood of Charlestown, near picturesque Bunker Hill, was the first, and is still considered the flagship of his gustatory empire. When it first opened, 15 years ago, it was unique in a Boston that still did not have the hundreds of diverse, gourmet restaurants that it has today. The chef was always "at home" in the place, bouncing from table to table, and back to the kitchen. Now, a visit to "Olives" is something like going to one of Boston's many historic sites....but one with excellent food! And the food IS still excellent, with unique menu choices that can only be found at a Todd English restaurant. My appetizer was the Olives Tart with Caramelized Onion, Goat Cheese, Anchovies, Olives and Basil. Absolutely delicious! My entree was Ricotta Agnolotti "Al Plin," over Slow and Low Braised Veal Bolognese, Lemon Thyme and Basil. Our dessert was Todd English's classic Fallen Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream. Our wine was my favorite Tuscan white, Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Not only did Olives not disappoint. It was even better than I remembered it being on my last visit over a decade ago. A true classic.

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "JOE V'S"

My friend Keith recommended this small Italian neighborhood restaurant to me, and so we headed over to "Joe V's" in Union Park in the South End. Union Park is a long block of brick Victorian townhouses, surrounding an oblong gated park in the British tradition. (Boston's South End is the largest collection of Victorian brick townhouses in America; 40 picturesque and charming blocks of these buildings, which surround Irish and British-like green parks, complete with fountains.) "Joe V's" sits on one corner, overlooking Union Park. Inside, the restaurant is very "old school" Italian, complete with butcher-block tables, and original art on the walls. I decided to order two of my "test items," to test the authenticity and accuracy of the food preparation at a restaurant. The first of these was the appetizer, a Caesar Salad. It was perfect. Prepared as a true Mexican Caesar Salad, without any extras (peas, chicken, tomatoes, etc.) The second was my entree, Gnocchi with Vodka Cream Sauce. Many good restaurants have gone down in smoke with this one. They're either overcooked, or borderline "mashed potatoes." Here they were just right. I felt like Goldilocks! We had some delicious Garlic Bread as a side-dish. Dessert was a Chocolate Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream. Our wine was a wonderful Cabernet Sauvignon. Although it was crowded, and very noisy, (and I could have done without the plasma screen and the football game,) this 3-year-old place is a welcome addition to the ever-growing South End dining scene.

(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW:"AMRHEINS"

"Southie" (South Boston) has always been an area of the city, that I rarely get over to. Philosophically, if not geographically, it always seemed a world apart. That's probably why I've never eaten at one of Boston's grand 100-year-old restaurants, "Amrheins." Just a short cab-ride away, there's this traditional old New England restaurant called Amrheins. As you step through the front doors, you step into Boston-1890...a world of tin ceilings, hand carved bars, large ornamental mirrors and leather and wood banquettes. The menu is filled with every standard New England dish that you could possibly want. Because it was so difficult to select a single appetizer, we went for the combo platter consisting of 6 appetizers (fried calamari, chicken tenders with chili sauce, chicken pot pie, potato cups, crispy eggplant sticks, and pan fried mozzarella.) Of course, we were full after all of this. Nevertheless, we did order entrees. Mine was the Stuffed Filet of Sole with Atlantic Salmon, Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes and Baby Spinach. My dessert (yes, I had dessert!) was the Banana Bread Pudding with Vanilla Ice Cream and Chocolate-covered Strawberry. We managed to forget what we were eating, with a smooth Cabernet Sauvignon. It was just too damn much of everything!

(4-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "LTK BAR & KITCHEN"

The Legal Sea Foods culinary empire has created, on Boston's waterfront, a test kitchen that also serves as a functioning hi-tech restaurant. The purpose of this experimental restaurant is to test out new dishes which, if successful, will find their way onto the menus of Legal Sea Foods restaurants around the country. It's hi-tech aspect involves laptop plug-ins, wi fi capability, and plasma screens. Waitresses place orders by tapping on blackberry-like menus. They'll even bring a small TV to your table, if you must watch TV while you're eating! It's all very 21st Century. With all of these bells and whistles, one must ask, "how's the food?" It's great! My appetizer was a perfect Caesar Salad. We ordered a plate of Fried Calamari for the table. My entree was a delicious Grilled Day Boat Sole with Lemon Caper Butter, Spinach and Jasmine Rice. My dessert was a Chocolate Ganache Peanut Butter Tart with Oreo Cookie Crust. Our wine was a creamy, clean Soave Classico from the Veneto in Italy. A caveat, if you're planning to go, and have made reservations, call several times to confirm your reservations, because they keep losing them. After my third call to confirm, only to find that they didn't have me listed, I told the manager, "get rid of the resident idiot who's making the reservations, and replace her with a computer!" Other than that, and the fact that the young girl who brings you to your table is a moron, the place is a fun place to get excellent seafood.

(3 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "PANIFICIO BACK BAY"

Beacon's Hill's charming trattoria has opened a branch in the Back Bay, just up the road from where I live, and with its menu of paninis, pizza, and hot entrees, it looked to be a welcome addition to our neighborhood. On the corner of Commonwealth Avenue, Boston's most beautiful boulevard, and Massachusetts Avenue, Boston's busiest thoroughfare, it certainly has a good location, although parking could be a big problem with no valet service. We walked over, so that was no problem for us. Although it's small, it's a nice little place, and its large front patio should be busy in the Spring and Summer. Once we set foot in the door, however, things started to fall apart. First of all, it's a cold little place. Literally, cold. In addition there was no one there. Once we were seated we were brought the menu, which was so small that it didn't even have an appetizer section. So we ordered Salads for starters...Caprese and Mediterraneo. As entrees we got Ricotta Gnocchi with Slow Braised Short Ribs, Garlicky Escarole and Parmesan Brodo. When we asked to see the wine list, we were told that they didn't have a liquor license yet. I had to go up to the front counter to ask our waiter to bring us bread, which was stale when he finally brought it, accompanied by those little plastic-wrapped squares of butter that I hate. Our dessert was an overly sweet Lemon Meringue Tart. The food was good, but the negatives far outweighed the positives. I give the place another three months, and it'll be a Starbucks!

(1-Star)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "COPIA"

Just across the little bridge from Boston in historic Charlestown, is the new restaurant from restaurateur Anthony Caturano, (the owner of what is arguably the North End's best restaurant, "Prezza.") This new place, "Copia," is just across the square from Todd English's first, and original "Olives," and it has a similar menu. Both restaurants include dishes from all countries bordering the Mediterranean...from Italy, Spain and France on the North, to Northern Africa on the South, and The Middle East on the East. That covers a lot of ground, and it gives the chef plenty of room to be highly creative...and creative he is. There were so many delicious-sounding appetizers from which to choose, so we selected a Mediterranean Antipasto which included several... Baba Ganoush, Hummus, and Tzatziki on Grilled Pita, as well as Zucchini Fritters, Mixed Olives and Marinated Mushrooms! They were all perfect. The entree section was also filled with many tempting choices, but I couldn't resist the Gnocchi with Broccoli Rabe and Nuggets of Sausage. It was excellent, but next time, I'll go with the Whole Branzini with Braised Winter Greens. It looked great. While reading the dessert menu, I was distracted by the sight of the magnificent, new Bunker Hill Bridge, just outside the wide expanse of windows. So dramatic. Back to the dessert menu. I chose the Cheesecake with Spiced Apple and Walnut Compote. We also had an order of wonderful Zeppole Dipped in Honey for the table. Our wine was a dry, but potent, Nero D'Avola Sicilian Red. The room is done in all shades of beige, which makes for a perfect backdrop for the wildly-colorful dishes being served. Were there any negatives about this beautiful new place? Yes. It's cold (my head froze every time the damn door opened,) and loud. So bring a cap and earplugs!

(4 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "MIEL" (at the Intercontinental Hotel)

Those tall shiny towers on the waterfront are the new Intercontinental Hotel. The front entrance to the hotel opens onto what will soon become the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway (formerly "The Big Dig,") Boston's three-mile long downtown park, which replaces the rusty old Expressway. A grand entrance for a grand hotel. The main restaurant at the hotel, is "Miel," Boston's first 24-hour Brasserie Provencale. Boston already has several authentic and excellent French bistros and brasseries, but this one is the first one that is open 24/7. Michelin rated (2-star) Celebrity Chef Jacques Chibois, has created a menu celebrating the wonders of Provence, including lavender, honey ("miel",) and olive oil. The restaurant includes a glass-enclosed dining room with a chef's table made from a one thousand-year-old olive tree. In the summer, the outdoor dining terrace in the back, will overlook the historical Boston waterfront. We'll have to come back then. For now, we looked at the menu and ordered. My appetizer was a Pistou Soup with Vegetables and Basil...authentic and delicious. My entree was one of my favorites, Grilled Dover Sole with Mandarin-flavored Olive Oil. We ordered the Plat des Fromages for the table, and followed it up with a delicious Chocolate Torte with Honey Ice Cream. Our wine was a tasty Sauvignon Bargemone de Provence. Everything about "Miel" is class...French Provencale decor, service, food preparation, presentation and taste. A great addition to the Waterfront, and the late-night dining scene in Boston.

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "PLUM ISLAND GRILLE"

Drive up the North Shore, past "The Witch City" of Salem, and into the beautiful oceanfront town of Newburyport. Cross the tiny bridge, and you're on the marshes of Plum Island. On the inland edge of the state's largest barrier island, is the romantic Plum Island Grille. From the dingy exterior, it looks like a beach shack where you might buy crab cakes and lobster rolls. But don't be put off. Inside it's a charming candle-lit inn with tables formally set for a grand dinner. Chef/Owner Francis Broadbery's world-class creative cuisine has been given countless awards by every important magazine, but tonight is something special. Tonight, Broadbery is serving a Classic French Wine Dinner, with wines paired with each course. My seat faced the open kitchen and I was able to watch the military-like efficient preparation of the dishes, by the chef and his two sous-chefs. We started with an amuse-bouche called Trio des Cornets. It consisted of a trio of cornets ("horns,") filled with Brie Mousse and Apricot Jam, a Trumpet Royale Pate with Tomato Thyme Confit, and a Truffled Honey Creme Fraiche with Beluga Caviar. This was served with a Sipp Mack Pinot Gris Reserve. My appetizer was a Souffle de Fromage, served atop a Pear Gelee. The wine for this dish was a Jean Noel Gagnard Chassagne Montrechet Maltroie. The soup course was a Bisque de Morel et Tartuffe. The wine, a Jean Marc Bouley Pommard. My entree was a Beurre Monte Poached Sea Scallop...(Large Sea Scallops Poached in Butter served over a Lobster Blini, with a Saffron and Vanilla Jus, accompanied by an Asparagus Gratin.) This was paired with a Chateau La Nerthe Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc. For dessert we had a Petite Tarte Tatin, with a Trio of Mousse. The wine was a Sauternes. There was a Plat de Fromage (Mimolette, French Brie, Chimay Grand Cru, and Saint Andre.) This was served with a Chateau Beausoleil. In between each course, a knowledgeable sommelier described the wine about to be served for that course. He was extremely informative, and I learned a great deal. The wine pairings were absolutely perfect. The magnificent sunsets and stunning panoramic marsh views just outside the windows, are no competition for the incredible food being served. If you're in the Boston area when this kind of special dinner is served again, don't miss it!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "FRANK'S STEAK HOUSE"

When Zagat published its most recent list of the "Top 10 Steakhouses in Boston," I realized that I had eaten at all of them except one (and I'm not a steak person.) So, I decided to remedy this by checking out the remaining steakhouse..."the oldest steakhouse in Boston." After a $20 taxi ride from my place, we arrived at what appeared to be a fairly large unassuming neighborhood restaurant. When we went into the already crowded lobby (over 1 1/2-hour waits for tables without reservations) we were seated fairly quickly. Now that's all of the good things that I can say about this ridiculous place! The clientele was very blue collar...truckers with fat wives. Our booth was a decent size, although my friend Ryan slipped into a hole where his seat cushion should have been. The decor of the place is sort of upscale cafeteria...a Perkins on steroids! The menu was typical, and our waitress took our orders. Then everything went wrong. The plates started to arrive too quickly...appetizers, salads and soups at the same time. The Nachos Platter was a good one, but everything else was bland. Who would have known that the Nachos Platter was going to be the best dish of the evening...and THAT wasn't anything special! Although the dishes arrived quickly, they were very slow in being removed, so our table began to resemble the place in a cafeteria where you return your used plates. My Petite Filet Mignon with Lobster Bernaise Sauce in a Puff Pastry, with Sauteed Vegetables and Potatoes was nothing more than a flattened piece of chewy mystery meat, in an uncooked Pillsbury roll. On the side were some undercooked zucchini, and the kind of mashed potatoes that you feed to babies who are teething. The less said about my rock-solid Oreo Ice Cream Cake, the better. Did I mention that the service was terrible? Our waitress forgot to bring me my Guinness, and had to be asked to bring bread and water to the table. She brought the check long before I asked for it. Oh, why continue. The place is a mess; don't ever go there!

(1-Star)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "SASSO"

"Sasso" is the third restaurant to occupy what some people might have considered to be a beautiful, but jinxed, location in a prime spot on Huntington Avenue. Restaurateur Tony Ambrose opened the spot 12 years ago with his elegant Italian restaurant "Ambrosia." Then, after mysteriously closing it at the height of its popularity, he reopened it as a rustic, yet upscale, seafood place called "Blackfin." When Ambrose finally called it quits, the owners of the wonderful "Lucca" in the North End bought it, and after a thorough renovation, just opened it as the lavish "Sasso." So much for background. As you approach "Sasso," one perceives a large dimly-lit, high-ceilinged room through the two-story-high street-front windows. Once inside, the room is simply decorated and candle-lit, but the overall effect is grand...with a wide marble-staircase leading up to another dining room on the mezzanine level. Service is very attentive and we were soon presented with the menu, with its heavy emphasis on game (wild boar, venison, rabbit, etc.) The other items on the menu put "Sasso" smack in the category of "alta cucina." No spaghetti and meatballs, or chicken parmigiana here! We skipped the gamey choices. My appetizer was Crespelle...Whole Wheat Crepe with Wild Mushrooms, Leeks, Escarole, Pecorino, and Truffle Vinaigrette. My entree was Cappasante...Olive-Crusted Scallops with Beluga Lentils, Applewood Smoked Bacon, and Agrodolce Pepper Reduction. We ordered the Cheese Plate which consisted of Tartufa, Ubriano, Craba, and Pecorino di Fosa...all delicious. My dessert was an assortment of Sorbetti. We washed all of this down with a hearty Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa. Welcome to the Back Bay, "Sasso." You're a classy addition to our neighborhood...and a short three-block walk from my place!

(5-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "THE ALCHEMIST LOUNGE"

When a bar like Triple D's, that's been a neighborhood favorite for 15 years, closes down, and is replaced by a yuppie-appearing "lounge," that place better be damn good, in order to keep the old clientele, and still attract the kind of pretty young things who drink mojitos and eat tiny tapas. From the looks of the crowd tonight, it seems to be doing just that...and this is Spring Break Week for nearby Northeastern! The place is huge, and the decor is still more pub than lounge (God knows, Jamaica Plain has enough pubs!) But the crowd seems to like it, so I guess that the transition is working. I had heard that The Alchemist has a great Shepherd's Pie, one of my comfort food favorites, so I ordered that, and it was delicious and plentiful. In fact, all of the portions are large. My appetizer was one of the best Caesar Salads that I've had outside of Mexico, and it was prepared in the Mexican way, with unbroken leaves of Romaine. Even though we were stuffed, there's always room for dessert, which was Apple Crisp a la Mode. Although the place was packed, our waitress had time to be nice, as well as competent. Now THAT'S refreshing. Although the food is very good, and the portions are generous; the service is attentive and knowledgeable; and the prices are very reasonable, The Alchemist still needs a make-over. Even a few well-placed plants, tablecloths on the wooden tables, and some nice, colorful paintings on the walls, would do the trick. Then it would be a restaurant that would draw people from further afield than the immediate neighborhood.

(3 1/2-Stars)

RESTAURANT MA-REVIEW: "POWOW RIVER GRILLE"

Once again we set off on a culinary adventure to the North Shore, to participate in another of Chef/Owner Francis Broadbery's Classic Wine Dinners. Last month, it was a superb Classic Wine FRENCH Dinner, and last night it was a Classic Wine SPANISH Dinner. This time, the venue was the Powow River Grille in Amesbury, chef Broadbery's other restaurant on the North Shore. (He really should do something about the terrible names of his two restaurants!) We were told by diners at last month's dinner, that the Powow River Grille was more elegant than the Plum Island Grille. It certainly was. The restaurant is in one of the great old renovated textile mills of Amesbury. All of the old mills have been beautifully converted into condos, restaurants, and shops. Once again, the tables were set with candles and fine china. The view from our table, up on the balcony next to the fireplace, was of the entire restaurant's interior below, and outside our window was a Norman Rockwell-ish