New Year's Eve 2015 - I am sitting in a new recliner, watching football with my husband, eating Pringles (leftover airport splurge) and writing. Perfect evening!
My 2015 project was to try a new (for me) cafe/restaurant/bar every week. I did the blog to keep myself on track, and to share with friends. It turns out I didn't make it to 52 new places, only 44 of 46 attempted (Eric says this is totally not a big deal). I never blogged about the restaurants we regularly went already, besides mentioning them in my first explanation-post (in case you are wondering- Volturno pizza, Wild Willy's burgers, Birch Tree Bread Co, The Smokestack, Bollywood Grill and Two Ovens in Shrewsbury, Meola's ice cream in West Boylston). So... here is the wrap up. I have every place and every mini-review below. My favorites are El Patron, Fatima's Cafe, Basil n' Spice and Cafe Reyes I don't think I will keep up the blog, as I want to metaphorically take some things off my plate. But maybe I will just do it less often from now on, we'll see.
Happy New Year everyone, and happy eating in 2016!
** indicates we've gone back
Red Pepper Chinese, 1083 Main St. (Jan)
Overall impression: The best Chinese I've had in Worcester. Huge menu, great place to try new things. I will be going back, hopefully many times.
Straight Up Cafe, 795 Main St. (Jan 16)
Overall impression: Down to earth, non-pretentious, community-center feel, simple food cheap and good, not incredibly strong coffee. I would definitely go back again.
Helen's Bakery and Cafe, 246 Greenwood St. (January 19)
Overall impression: a local (place for locals and regulars), simple and good diner breakfast, fast, nice staff. Not sure I would go back to eat-in, but maybe to try breads or pastries.
The Compass Tavern 90 Harding St. (Jan 22) **
Overall impression: Very large bar is the main focus, probably better for drinks than dinner. Ok food, fine service
Fatima's Cafe, 37 West Boylston St. (January 25) **
Overall impression: Awesome food, particularly the samosas. Bright, no-frills dining room, a family place. I will definitely go back.
El Patron, 192 Harding St (February 6)**
Overall impression: Great fresh food, good location, friendly family place. I hope we become regular visitors. Along with lots of other people - go check it out!
Pho Sure, 84 Boston Turnpike in Shrewsbury (February 14)
Overall impression: Hearty food, good service. Nice location for those on the east side or working at UMAss Med - just over lake Quinsigamond in Shrewsbury.
Livia's Dish, 1394 Main St. Worcester (February 22)
Overall impression: Nice place for a lazy Sunday meal. Awesome breakfast panini, very reasonably priced.
The Urban, 225 Shrewsbury St (February, 24) (Now Closed)
Overall impression: Sophisticated yet not pretentious. Excellent food, but pricey. Put it on the list for date night, a place to take guests and interview candidates, or to indulge.
Mare e Monti Trattoria, 19 Wall St (February 26)
Overall impression: A little gem of an Italian place. Great atmosphere, delicious food. Mid-range prices, generous portions.
Joey's Bar and Grill 344 Chandler St (March 11)
Overall impression: A slightly older crowd, good quality food, the service could have been faster. We probably won't put it on our list of regular places, but it may fit tastes different than mine.
The Breakfast Bar, 119 June St. (March 14) (Now Closed)
Overall impression: Neighborhood diner, more interesting-looking on the inside than a lot of your average diners. Food was good but nothing top-notch. An option if you live on the west side, but likely not worth the drive from other areas, unless you are meeting west-side-friends.
The Eggroll Lady and Fish Shack, 608 W. Boylston St (March 21)
Overall impression: Eggrolls + fried fish and seafood take-out from a teeny teeny tiny spot. Very popular, run by a friendly family. Not for vegetarians, though.
Cafe Reyes, 421 Shrewsbury St (April 7) **
Overall impression: Bright and happy atmosphere, awesome food. Unfortunately open only 7-3 on weekdays, but definitely worth leaving work for a lunch break.
Bay State Shawarma, 86 Water St (April 11) **
Overall impression: Yum.
A direct quote from my husband: "Ok, that was some amazing, amazing shawarma."
Salt and Pepper, 268 Lincoln St. (April 19)
Overall impression: Good food, great space. A nice option if you are in the neighborhood for breakfast or lunch.
Pepe's 274 Franklin St. (April 29) **
Overall impression: Yummy pizza, but maybe a better place to have drinks than dinner.
Homestyle Cuisine, 82 Harrison St. (May 14)
Overall impression: Seems a great place to grab lunch to go that can be taken to a park and enjoyed in the sunshine on a summer day. (Caveat: not for vegetarians).
Piccolo's 157 Shrewsbury St (May 21)
Overall impression: Fabulous salad, good pasta, casual atmosphere. Perfectly lovely.
Tom's International Deli, 52 Millbury St. (May 29)
Overall impression: The stuffed cabbage rolls were the big winner among my colleagues. And the chocolate selection was great!
Shangri La, 50 Front St. (June 3)
Overall impression: I would really like a restaurant to succeed in this location. If you are downtown, stop for lunch. This isn't likely to be destination dining, though.
Bahan's International Market, 344 Pleasant St. (June 12)
Overall impression: Delightful veggie kibbeh. Worth seeking out!
Food Truck Festival - Elm Park, June 21
Overall impression: Only for rich foodies.
Alternate tag line: $5 for the privilege of standing in line.
Basil n' Spice 299 Shrewsbury St, June 24 **
Overall impression: Tasty food and a lovely atmosphere in this newly-opened Thai restaurant.
Corner Lunch, 133 Lamartine St (July 3)
Overall impression: A perfectly pleasant, sort of rundown-comfy, sunny diner.
Canal Restaurant & Bar 65 Water St. (July 15)
Overall impression: Great place to go for drinks. Large and diverse food menu, attentive service.
Loving Hut Vegan Cuisine 415 Chandler St. (July 20)
Overall impression: Good vegan Chinese and Thai-style dishes. Nice for lunch.
Pinecroft Dairy (West Boylston) (July 31)
Overall impression: Like going back in time, but with modern ice cream flavors.
Chuan Shabu 301 Park Ave (August 5)
Overall impression: Go for sharing.
Sol of Mexico, 538 Pleasant St., (August 12 and 15)
Overall impression: This place is fabulous!
Blue Jeans Bistro, 266 Park Ave (August 19)
Overall impression: Lovely to sit outside on a summer night. Somewhat slow service, but fine food, including a large selection of appetizers.
The Bean Counter 113 Highland St (August 26)
Overall impression: Great coffee.
On the Rise Bakery (Sept 6)
Overall impression: Great for west-siders who have a sweet tooth.
Belmont Vegetarian Restaurant, 157 Belmont St. (September 9)
Overall impression: Stick with it through the somewhat sterile atmosphere, the food is really good.
Wicked Wings, 321 West Bolyston St. (Sept 16)
Overall impression: This very new place has a few kinks to still work out in service, but the food is promising.
Restaurant Pizza Works 456 Grove St (Sept 20)
Overall impression: Good pizza, plus a large menu of non-pizza things. Ideal for multi-generational gatherings.
Sake Bomb 258 Park Ave (Sept 27)
Overall impression: Reasonably priced sushi. I'd be happy to meet a friend there for lunch anytime.
Belsito's Deli 305 Plantation St (Oct 10)
Overall impression: Good deli sandwiches to go if you are in the neighborhood.
Cafe Espresso 395 Chandler St. (Oct 20)
Overall impression: Excellent homemade pasta. Simple fine dining.
Ciao Bella 402 Grove St (Oct 28) **
Overall impression: Yummy comfort food, quick for take-out.
Addie Lee's Soul Food 596 Main St. (November 5)
Overall impression: Yummy food in a comfy environment.
Oishi Japanese Restaurant 8 Franklin St. (Nov 12)
Overall impression: Tons of veggie sushi options.
Padavano's Place 358 Shrewsbury St. (Dec 1)
Overall impression: Great homemade ravioli.
Kenmore Diner 250 Franklin St. (Nov 28)
Overall impression: A perfectly good diner, emphasis on large portions of potatoes.
Dell'Ovo's Kitchen 257 Shrewsbury St. (Dec 9)
Overall impression: A tiny place with awesome food.
Thursday, December 31, 2015
Monday, December 14, 2015
Dell'Ovo's Kitchen 257 Shrewsbury St. December 9
Overall impression: A tiny place with awesome food.
http://www.dellovos.com/
http://www.telegram.com/article/20151210/ENTERTAINMENTLIFE/151219940
I took myself out for lunch on a Thursday, trying to squeeze in a few more new places by the end of the year. (I don't think I will hit 52 this year, but I will have come close.) I had no idea where to go, really, but fortuitously read a Telegram review of Dell'Ovo's in the morning. Honestly I drive by it every single weekday, but I thought it was only catering. Turns out there are about 5 or 6 tables and a counter, serving breakfast until 11 and lunch until 3.
They have lots of different Italian options, sandwiches and pasta. I went with the homemade cheese ravioli, with both oil and garlic and a little bit of marinara on top. I was served fluffy white bread while waiting, but saved it to dip in my pasta. Everything tasted really great. Fresh, hot, flavorful.
It was very quick (I was there maybe 15 minutes total) and reasonably priced. Lots of regulars, people on lunch breaks, people picking up food to-go around noon. It is very close to my husband's work, so maybe he can put it into his lunch rotation. I won't be able to go very often, as I'm usually too busy with work to leave at that time of day. But maybe during my slow times of year, or our next catering event. It was quite good.
http://www.dellovos.com/
http://www.telegram.com/article/20151210/ENTERTAINMENTLIFE/151219940
I took myself out for lunch on a Thursday, trying to squeeze in a few more new places by the end of the year. (I don't think I will hit 52 this year, but I will have come close.) I had no idea where to go, really, but fortuitously read a Telegram review of Dell'Ovo's in the morning. Honestly I drive by it every single weekday, but I thought it was only catering. Turns out there are about 5 or 6 tables and a counter, serving breakfast until 11 and lunch until 3.
They have lots of different Italian options, sandwiches and pasta. I went with the homemade cheese ravioli, with both oil and garlic and a little bit of marinara on top. I was served fluffy white bread while waiting, but saved it to dip in my pasta. Everything tasted really great. Fresh, hot, flavorful.
It was very quick (I was there maybe 15 minutes total) and reasonably priced. Lots of regulars, people on lunch breaks, people picking up food to-go around noon. It is very close to my husband's work, so maybe he can put it into his lunch rotation. I won't be able to go very often, as I'm usually too busy with work to leave at that time of day. But maybe during my slow times of year, or our next catering event. It was quite good.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Padavano's Place 358 Shrewsbury St. (Dec. 1)
Overall impression: Great homemade ravioli.
http://padavanosplace.com/
Padavano's place is fairly new, and close to Eric's work. So he had tried it once before for lunch before we had dinner there on a Tuesday night (they aren't open for lunch anymore, though). It hadn't been at the top of my list to try, since there is already so much Italian food around, and close by on Shrewsbury St. However, I read about them in Worcester magazine (while waiting at the optometrist's office..) and was inspired to try the ravioli.
It was very quiet inside when we were there, hopefully it gets busier later (we ate early). We sat in the diningroom area rather than at a hightop at the bar - but I noted that the bar looked interesting for future work happy hours. The decor is nice inside, and they have the best fake-brick wallpaper ever (this is not your grandmother's fake-brick wallpaper). It was a comfy spot for dinner. My comfort was aided by a pistachio martini (super sweet, my sugar content for a month, but yummy!).
Eric had pasta with pink vodka sauce and sausage. He liked it and also took leftovers home. I had the ravioli. They were good, although there was more marinara sauce than I needed. Since they are huge I only ate maybe 4/6, and sent the other two home in Eric's to-go box. They refilled our bread (the fluffy white kind of stuff a friend refers to as "cloud bread") and drinks quickly, service was friendly and good.
Check it out for yourself!
Kenmore Diner 250 Franklin St. (Nov 28)
Overall impression: A perfectly good diner, emphasis on large portions of potatoes.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kenmore-Diner/236681113030087
We were at the Kenmore the Saturday after Thanksgiving. It was busy at 9:30 am, but no waiting for a table. Our only slight confusion was where to park - Eric and I did street parking close to Pepe's restaurant, and our friend Melissa did train station parking. She would not have had to do station parking - there are meters along the Kenmore building. However, it is a bit tricky to figure how to get into for first-timers.
Luckily the food was good. I had eggs and toast and home fries, the others had eggs/bacon/kielbasa/homefries/french toast. The standout for me was the raisin bread toast with butter. I was working on potato overload though, having had mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving and potatoes in a stew of Thanksgiving leftovers.
Service was friendly and quick. This is a good breakfast option (or lunch - we didn't try lunch items) if you are near downtown or the train station.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
Le Mirage closed - fall back to comfort food
This week I did try to keep up with my project, planning to meet a friend at Le Mirage on the corner of Chandler and June streets. Sadly, they have closed. A friend in the neighborhood thought the owners moved away.
So, comfort food fall-back option just down the street was in store: Nancy Chang's. I didn't have the stamina or the funds to search out someplace different on another day, sorry. Nancy Chang's is definitely not new-for-me, and also not the best Chinese food. It makes one feel like home, though, and that's what we needed on a rainy, pitch-black November evening.
So, comfort food fall-back option just down the street was in store: Nancy Chang's. I didn't have the stamina or the funds to search out someplace different on another day, sorry. Nancy Chang's is definitely not new-for-me, and also not the best Chinese food. It makes one feel like home, though, and that's what we needed on a rainy, pitch-black November evening.
Sunday, November 15, 2015
Oishi Japanese Restaurant 8 Franklin St. (Nov 12)
Overall impression: Tons of veggie sushi options.
https://www.facebook.com/OishiJapaneseRestraunt/?fref=nf
Downtown Worcester isn't someplace we go to a lot for dining, I really need to explore more. Sure, there is the Armsby Abbey for fabulous beer and cocktails (though I'm not a beer drinker), but I have a hard time getting my husband to dine there. Ritual we liked for a while, until we had such horrible service last year that we gave it the final cross off of our list. But both those places are on the upper end of style and kind of "chi chi". Most places downtown are fewer frills, and that is really fine. (See last week's post on Addie Lee's... though Addie Lee's has more ambience than Oishi).
So, I went to the rather small kind of hole in the wall restaurant, Oishi, on my friend Nadine's recommendation. I just got take-out to have for lunch at work. The people working there were very friendly. They pointed out the delivery option and also gave me a frequent-eater card (5th meal and free stuff!). It really is small inside, but dining in would be fine if that's your desire. The restaurant is right by the common, and I didn't have any problem finding street parking on a Thursday at 11:30.
There are several veggie sushi options, which is great for me (no meat, no fish). I got a mixed veggie roll and an avocado roll. I decided to also get Maguro (tuna) sushi a la carte for my friend Sarah to taste-test. I thought mine was yummy. However, with veggie sushi I don't think there are the great differences in quality as there can be with regular sushi. (I don't consider vegetarian sushi "regular" as there was none to be had in Japan when we visited.) Sarah liked hers, but said that the tuna was very thin-sliced. She would have there food again.
There you have it, a perfectly fine place downtown for sushi. Pop in if you are around!
https://www.facebook.com/OishiJapaneseRestraunt/?fref=nf
Downtown Worcester isn't someplace we go to a lot for dining, I really need to explore more. Sure, there is the Armsby Abbey for fabulous beer and cocktails (though I'm not a beer drinker), but I have a hard time getting my husband to dine there. Ritual we liked for a while, until we had such horrible service last year that we gave it the final cross off of our list. But both those places are on the upper end of style and kind of "chi chi". Most places downtown are fewer frills, and that is really fine. (See last week's post on Addie Lee's... though Addie Lee's has more ambience than Oishi).
So, I went to the rather small kind of hole in the wall restaurant, Oishi, on my friend Nadine's recommendation. I just got take-out to have for lunch at work. The people working there were very friendly. They pointed out the delivery option and also gave me a frequent-eater card (5th meal and free stuff!). It really is small inside, but dining in would be fine if that's your desire. The restaurant is right by the common, and I didn't have any problem finding street parking on a Thursday at 11:30.
There are several veggie sushi options, which is great for me (no meat, no fish). I got a mixed veggie roll and an avocado roll. I decided to also get Maguro (tuna) sushi a la carte for my friend Sarah to taste-test. I thought mine was yummy. However, with veggie sushi I don't think there are the great differences in quality as there can be with regular sushi. (I don't consider vegetarian sushi "regular" as there was none to be had in Japan when we visited.) Sarah liked hers, but said that the tuna was very thin-sliced. She would have there food again.
There you have it, a perfectly fine place downtown for sushi. Pop in if you are around!
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Addie Lee's Soul Food 596 Main St. (November 5)
Overall impression: Yummy food in a comfy environment
https://www.facebook.com/Addie-Lees-Soul-Food-580869232039716/
This was a week for me to lunch out, away from the work break-room. Sometimes you just need to change it up. I had been trying to get to Addie Lee's with a colleague from New Orleans for a long time - I figured he'd have more insight into soul food than me, given my midwestern upbringing. That never worked out, so I decided to just set a date and go. Lucky for me my friend Nadine was able to come along. I not only got a second opinion, but also had a fabulous dining companion.
We were among the first customers at 11:45 on a Thursday (they open at 11:30). We ordered and then grabbed the one table that had semi-shade. The dining area is lovely - windows on two sides as the restaurant is on a corner. Unfortunately, the first week in November was disturbingly hot, and the sun pouring in made it feel about 80 degrees inside (it may actually have been 80 degrees). I ate in a tank top. Of course, in mid-winter I will be happy to eat in a pool of sun.
I had mac and cheese and collard greens, which came with corn bread. All was good, and the corn bread was especially nice in that it wasn't overly sweet. Nadine had the lunch special with baked chicken, mac and cheese as her side. She liked everything very well except the chicken, which was a bit dry for her taste. Her plan is to next time try the fried chicken.
Nadine and I had a lot of catching up to do and were engrossed in conversation. So honestly I didn't pay attention to other diners, how full it got, what seemed a popular dish, etc. (The people who worked there seemed nice, and our food arrived quickly, that I can report). I'd go there again anytime for food and chatting, though, even if I wasn't "paying attention" for a review I felt very much at home and appreciative of the cooking.
(Sorry no pictures).
P.S. My friend Melissa says the Friday night catfish is excellent!
P.P.S. According to Facebook Nov. 7 was their one-year anniversary!
https://www.facebook.com/Addie-Lees-Soul-Food-580869232039716/
This was a week for me to lunch out, away from the work break-room. Sometimes you just need to change it up. I had been trying to get to Addie Lee's with a colleague from New Orleans for a long time - I figured he'd have more insight into soul food than me, given my midwestern upbringing. That never worked out, so I decided to just set a date and go. Lucky for me my friend Nadine was able to come along. I not only got a second opinion, but also had a fabulous dining companion.
We were among the first customers at 11:45 on a Thursday (they open at 11:30). We ordered and then grabbed the one table that had semi-shade. The dining area is lovely - windows on two sides as the restaurant is on a corner. Unfortunately, the first week in November was disturbingly hot, and the sun pouring in made it feel about 80 degrees inside (it may actually have been 80 degrees). I ate in a tank top. Of course, in mid-winter I will be happy to eat in a pool of sun.
I had mac and cheese and collard greens, which came with corn bread. All was good, and the corn bread was especially nice in that it wasn't overly sweet. Nadine had the lunch special with baked chicken, mac and cheese as her side. She liked everything very well except the chicken, which was a bit dry for her taste. Her plan is to next time try the fried chicken.
Nadine and I had a lot of catching up to do and were engrossed in conversation. So honestly I didn't pay attention to other diners, how full it got, what seemed a popular dish, etc. (The people who worked there seemed nice, and our food arrived quickly, that I can report). I'd go there again anytime for food and chatting, though, even if I wasn't "paying attention" for a review I felt very much at home and appreciative of the cooking.
(Sorry no pictures).
P.S. My friend Melissa says the Friday night catfish is excellent!
P.P.S. According to Facebook Nov. 7 was their one-year anniversary!
Saturday, October 31, 2015
Ciao Bella 402 Grove St (Oct 28)
Overall impression: Yummy comfort food, quick for take-out.
http://www.ciaobellarestaurant.biz/zgrid/proc/site/start.jsp
I meant to try two new places last week, since we were out of town the week previous. Eric being sick thwarted that plan, though. My turn with the illness came next, which almost prevented us from exploring this week. However, Ciao Bella is perfect for take-out (they also do delivery!), and that is just what we needed after a long and tiring work day.
There are a few tables at Ciao Bella, and it was very busy when we went for pick-up. But the food prep is extremely fast, they are on top of things. I ordered before leaving work, on-line, and everything was hot and freshly ready when we got it 25 minutes later. I usually only call places, so online ordering was novel. And dangerous... its so easy to just keep adding things to your cart. I got enough food for a family of 8 (which we are not), using the justification that we needed to try many things to report on. The great thing is we will be fed through the weekend.
I ordered a spinach pie with salad, wings for Eric, fettucine alfredo with broccolli, angel hair pesto with chicken on the side, and breadsticks. Everything tasted great, except that the garlic bread slices that came with the pasta weren't wonderful. But that didn't matter because the breadsticks were fantastic. The spinach pie I didn't have a chance to get to with dinner, so I had it the next day for lunch. Also yummy.
My friend Michelle loves Ciao Bella, and couldn't believe I had never gone. Her family eats their food several times a month, I think. I have now had it and I am a happy convert - next time we have a movie night at our house I'm getting delivery.
http://www.ciaobellarestaurant.biz/zgrid/proc/site/start.jsp
I meant to try two new places last week, since we were out of town the week previous. Eric being sick thwarted that plan, though. My turn with the illness came next, which almost prevented us from exploring this week. However, Ciao Bella is perfect for take-out (they also do delivery!), and that is just what we needed after a long and tiring work day.
There are a few tables at Ciao Bella, and it was very busy when we went for pick-up. But the food prep is extremely fast, they are on top of things. I ordered before leaving work, on-line, and everything was hot and freshly ready when we got it 25 minutes later. I usually only call places, so online ordering was novel. And dangerous... its so easy to just keep adding things to your cart. I got enough food for a family of 8 (which we are not), using the justification that we needed to try many things to report on. The great thing is we will be fed through the weekend.
I ordered a spinach pie with salad, wings for Eric, fettucine alfredo with broccolli, angel hair pesto with chicken on the side, and breadsticks. Everything tasted great, except that the garlic bread slices that came with the pasta weren't wonderful. But that didn't matter because the breadsticks were fantastic. The spinach pie I didn't have a chance to get to with dinner, so I had it the next day for lunch. Also yummy.
My friend Michelle loves Ciao Bella, and couldn't believe I had never gone. Her family eats their food several times a month, I think. I have now had it and I am a happy convert - next time we have a movie night at our house I'm getting delivery.
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Cafe Espresso 395 Chandler St. (Oct 20)
Overall impression: Excellent homemade pasta. Simple fine dining.
http://www.ctrattoria.com/
Last week I didn't try a new Worcester place, as we were out of town on vacation. (Brief food review of Quebec City: Excellent croissants and risotto, inedibly bad Indian. Didn't try the poutine since I'm vegetarian). So this week I'll try to squeeze in two places. Stop number one: Tuesday dinner at Cafe Espresso on Chandler Street.
My good friend Erin came to give a talk for my department's seminar series (she was great, go Erin!), so we went out together at the end of the day. We were joined by two other friends/colleagues who Erin also knew beforehand (the science world is very small). I wanted to try Cafe Espresso for the express purpose of blogging about it, and dinner companion Michelle was thrilled - she loves it there. I can say Michelle really does have great taste, I thought the food was wonderful.
I had homemade cavatelli with broccolli, Erin had a homemade pasta too, while the others got the specials. One special was wild boar, but the other slips my mind. And I wasn't even drinking! It is BYOB, but we didn't B. Since we arrived early, sans alcohol, and were the first group in the whole dining room, I made some joke about being early-bird blue-plate special old ladies. And... the very next group that came in was 6 or 7 elderly women. So I wasn't too far off. (I hope to be going out with groups of girlfriends well into my 80s or beyond.)
By the time we finished the meal many other tables were full. Mostly middle-aged couples and groups, but a few families. The restaurant doesn't look like much from the outside (kind of strip-mall-ish), but the inside is nice. There was a flickering fluorescent light that drove me a little crazy, though. Other than that, ambiance is fine. And I'm sure the light will be fixed soon.
I will go back to with Eric, I think he'd like it. Since he is the photographer in the family and he wasn't with me Tuesday I have no pictures. Sorry! All you need to see is on the website, anyway, so check that out.
http://www.ctrattoria.com/
Last week I didn't try a new Worcester place, as we were out of town on vacation. (Brief food review of Quebec City: Excellent croissants and risotto, inedibly bad Indian. Didn't try the poutine since I'm vegetarian). So this week I'll try to squeeze in two places. Stop number one: Tuesday dinner at Cafe Espresso on Chandler Street.
My good friend Erin came to give a talk for my department's seminar series (she was great, go Erin!), so we went out together at the end of the day. We were joined by two other friends/colleagues who Erin also knew beforehand (the science world is very small). I wanted to try Cafe Espresso for the express purpose of blogging about it, and dinner companion Michelle was thrilled - she loves it there. I can say Michelle really does have great taste, I thought the food was wonderful.
I had homemade cavatelli with broccolli, Erin had a homemade pasta too, while the others got the specials. One special was wild boar, but the other slips my mind. And I wasn't even drinking! It is BYOB, but we didn't B. Since we arrived early, sans alcohol, and were the first group in the whole dining room, I made some joke about being early-bird blue-plate special old ladies. And... the very next group that came in was 6 or 7 elderly women. So I wasn't too far off. (I hope to be going out with groups of girlfriends well into my 80s or beyond.)
By the time we finished the meal many other tables were full. Mostly middle-aged couples and groups, but a few families. The restaurant doesn't look like much from the outside (kind of strip-mall-ish), but the inside is nice. There was a flickering fluorescent light that drove me a little crazy, though. Other than that, ambiance is fine. And I'm sure the light will be fixed soon.
I will go back to with Eric, I think he'd like it. Since he is the photographer in the family and he wasn't with me Tuesday I have no pictures. Sorry! All you need to see is on the website, anyway, so check that out.
Sunday, October 11, 2015
Belsito's Deli 305 Plantation St (Oct 10)
Overall impression: Good deli sandwiches to go if you are in the neighborhood.
https://www.facebook.com/belsitosdeli
The guys at Belsito's seemed to be having a somewhat comically bad day when we were there. No hot sandwiches were on offer because of a big catering job, which seemed a bit stressful. So we ordered a veggie and a ham and cheese... and they accidentally sent my veggie out the door with another customer. Oops. (The guy making mine carried it up to the register with him when he went to ring someone else out, and it got lost in the sandwich-shuffle).
Everything turned out fine though. We got our food and took it to Lake Park. It was such a beautiful fall day, perfect for watching rowers and dog-walkers while having a picnic. We both liked our sandwiches. They weren't anything I'd go out of my way to drive for (although maybe meat eaters feel that way about meatballs or steak-involved sandwiches, but Eric didn't get the chance to be able to comment on that). If you are in the neighborhood, go for it. Unfortunately Plantation St. has been torn up and under construction for what seems like forever, so I hope it didn't affect their business.
If you go, bring cash. They don't accept cards, but do have an ATM machine with an incredibly high fee. Otherwise, just go hungry. I still have half of my meal in my refrigerator a day later.
https://www.facebook.com/belsitosdeli
The guys at Belsito's seemed to be having a somewhat comically bad day when we were there. No hot sandwiches were on offer because of a big catering job, which seemed a bit stressful. So we ordered a veggie and a ham and cheese... and they accidentally sent my veggie out the door with another customer. Oops. (The guy making mine carried it up to the register with him when he went to ring someone else out, and it got lost in the sandwich-shuffle).
Everything turned out fine though. We got our food and took it to Lake Park. It was such a beautiful fall day, perfect for watching rowers and dog-walkers while having a picnic. We both liked our sandwiches. They weren't anything I'd go out of my way to drive for (although maybe meat eaters feel that way about meatballs or steak-involved sandwiches, but Eric didn't get the chance to be able to comment on that). If you are in the neighborhood, go for it. Unfortunately Plantation St. has been torn up and under construction for what seems like forever, so I hope it didn't affect their business.
If you go, bring cash. They don't accept cards, but do have an ATM machine with an incredibly high fee. Otherwise, just go hungry. I still have half of my meal in my refrigerator a day later.
Sunday, October 4, 2015
Sake Bomb 258 Park Ave (Sept 27)
Overall impression: Reasonably priced sushi. I'd be happy to meet a friend there for lunch anytime.
http://www.sakebombbistro.com/
I am 3/4 of the way through my year of trying new Worcester establishments, and I have a few things to say:
I live in a fabulous city.
I have wonderful friends who live in this city (and nearby).
I love to explore on my own, or meet with these wonderful friends or my beloved husband for food and drinks.
This was a good idea.
(Ok, sentimentality over for now. Although I would be happy to take suggestions for next year's project. I see someone else has already sampled Worcester whiskeys, and that isn't so much my thing anyway. Perhaps checking out every park in town and all border towns? hmmm).
So... Sake Bomb. A few years ago the Japanese restaurant Haiku was in this location. Haiku was quite good, I thought. Sake Bomb is not quite on par. But it was a lovely place to meet my friend Melissa for a Sunday noon meal. Nothing too special, but it didn't need to be.
We sat in a sunny corner table, that was nice. It wasn't crowded, just us and a couple guys at the bar watching the start of the Patriots game by the time we left. Service was quick and attentive. Melissa was my official meat and fish tester - she had some sort of dumplings with pork as an appetizer, I had seaweed salad (which came with surprise fish eggs, but I removed them). Both were satisfying. She got sushi, I got veggie sushi (cucumber and avocado, and I do realize some people wouldn't call that sushi. But I do love that combo). Not necessarily outstanding, but not bad. Melissa was of the same opinion, plus happy that they have takeout.
I have never been to Baba sushi, which I have heard is outstanding. But as a vegetarian married to someone who isn't crazy about Japanese food, it would be wasted on me. Sake bomb was just fine. Plus, it is sandwiched between That's Entertainment (where I picked up the lastest Hellboy in Hell and C.C. Lowell, where I got pumpkin-painting supplies). Bonus for location!
http://www.sakebombbistro.com/
I am 3/4 of the way through my year of trying new Worcester establishments, and I have a few things to say:
I live in a fabulous city.
I have wonderful friends who live in this city (and nearby).
I love to explore on my own, or meet with these wonderful friends or my beloved husband for food and drinks.
This was a good idea.
(Ok, sentimentality over for now. Although I would be happy to take suggestions for next year's project. I see someone else has already sampled Worcester whiskeys, and that isn't so much my thing anyway. Perhaps checking out every park in town and all border towns? hmmm).
So... Sake Bomb. A few years ago the Japanese restaurant Haiku was in this location. Haiku was quite good, I thought. Sake Bomb is not quite on par. But it was a lovely place to meet my friend Melissa for a Sunday noon meal. Nothing too special, but it didn't need to be.
We sat in a sunny corner table, that was nice. It wasn't crowded, just us and a couple guys at the bar watching the start of the Patriots game by the time we left. Service was quick and attentive. Melissa was my official meat and fish tester - she had some sort of dumplings with pork as an appetizer, I had seaweed salad (which came with surprise fish eggs, but I removed them). Both were satisfying. She got sushi, I got veggie sushi (cucumber and avocado, and I do realize some people wouldn't call that sushi. But I do love that combo). Not necessarily outstanding, but not bad. Melissa was of the same opinion, plus happy that they have takeout.
I have never been to Baba sushi, which I have heard is outstanding. But as a vegetarian married to someone who isn't crazy about Japanese food, it would be wasted on me. Sake bomb was just fine. Plus, it is sandwiched between That's Entertainment (where I picked up the lastest Hellboy in Hell and C.C. Lowell, where I got pumpkin-painting supplies). Bonus for location!
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Restaurant Pizza Works 456 Grove St (Sept 20)
Overall impression: Good pizza, plus a large menu of non-pizza things. Ideal for multi-generational gatherings.
http://www.restaurantpizzaworks.com/zgrid/proc/site/sitep.jsp
This week's new-for-me (and for Eric) place was Restaurant Pizza Works. It was perfect for post-game, post-afternoon walk refreshment. Nothing fancy, just good food that we didn't have to make for ourselves. (And wearing slightly worn football t-shirts we were happy not to feel under-dressed). We will likely visit again in the same type of Sunday situation.
I first heard about the food there from a colleague who has taken his boy scout troop for celebrations. His son is one of those extremely picky eaters whose diet mostly consists of bread - and yet he likes their pizza. Though that is what we had, the menu is gigantic, so there is something for everyone. The crowd when we were there was older, but I could envision groups of kids there. It seems a good family place. Totally casual and comfortable.
The pizza was slightly different than our usual fare - the crust was unique. Not thick, not thin- sort of in-between with just the right amount of crispness, and a touch of sweet. Yummy. Eric got sausage and mushroom and I got the puttanesca pizza. It was the first time I had capers as a topping and I was taken aback at first, but I really liked the added zing.
So far I haven't actually experienced a bad pizza place in Worcester. But I do really appreciate the differences in crusts and choices at the various establishments. A reason to get out of one's usual pizza joint rut!
http://www.restaurantpizzaworks.com/zgrid/proc/site/sitep.jsp
This week's new-for-me (and for Eric) place was Restaurant Pizza Works. It was perfect for post-game, post-afternoon walk refreshment. Nothing fancy, just good food that we didn't have to make for ourselves. (And wearing slightly worn football t-shirts we were happy not to feel under-dressed). We will likely visit again in the same type of Sunday situation.
I first heard about the food there from a colleague who has taken his boy scout troop for celebrations. His son is one of those extremely picky eaters whose diet mostly consists of bread - and yet he likes their pizza. Though that is what we had, the menu is gigantic, so there is something for everyone. The crowd when we were there was older, but I could envision groups of kids there. It seems a good family place. Totally casual and comfortable.
The pizza was slightly different than our usual fare - the crust was unique. Not thick, not thin- sort of in-between with just the right amount of crispness, and a touch of sweet. Yummy. Eric got sausage and mushroom and I got the puttanesca pizza. It was the first time I had capers as a topping and I was taken aback at first, but I really liked the added zing.
So far I haven't actually experienced a bad pizza place in Worcester. But I do really appreciate the differences in crusts and choices at the various establishments. A reason to get out of one's usual pizza joint rut!
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Wicked Wings, 321 West Bolyston St. (Sept 16)
Overall impression: This very new place has a few kinks to still work out in service, but the food is promising.
http://www.wickedwingco.com/
I'd like to thank my guest tasters this week - my husband and four of my colleagues. Tasters are a must for a vegetarian going to a wings place. I am happy to report, however, that there are vegetarian pizza and salad options at Wicked Wings, so it is fine to accompany meat eaters there. Happiness for everyone. (Well, maybe not for vegans.)
This is a new restaurant, only open a few weeks. It is the third restaurant in this location in the last decade. Since its walkable from our house I'd really like it to do well. On a Wednesday night it was packed at 6 pm , that's a good sign. They were originally supposed to open in June, so the people in the neighborhood have been waiting a while. Outdoor seating option is also a bonus, though it isn't very scenic. The inside of the restaurant is decorated in barn wood. Cozy but not dark, and certainly family-friendly.
We ordered onion rings, a caprese pizza for me (pesto, mozzarella, tomatoes) and boneless wings for Eric. There was a mix-up, so we were brought someone else's food instead (bbq and buffalo wings). Which we got to take home, since they couldn't bring it back to the kitchen. (Hence my colleague taste-testers - I brought these bone-in wings to work on Friday). Our waitress was nice, but seemed fairly green - we also had to wait for plates and condiments. But I bet she'll be a pro within the week.
The onion rings needed salt, but were otherwise good. The pizza was fine. Eric said he prefers buffalo wild wings, but that his dinner still tasted good (he chose the pesto and the mango sauces). The lunch crowd at work was happy for the wings surprise, and very much appreciated them. One person asked if they were from Wings over Worcester, and I've only heard favorable reviews of that place.
I'd go to Wicked Wings again. Especially because they have fried mac and cheese balls, which sound interesting. (If only they were on a stick, I think they'd qualify as fair food).
http://www.wickedwingco.com/
I'd like to thank my guest tasters this week - my husband and four of my colleagues. Tasters are a must for a vegetarian going to a wings place. I am happy to report, however, that there are vegetarian pizza and salad options at Wicked Wings, so it is fine to accompany meat eaters there. Happiness for everyone. (Well, maybe not for vegans.)
This is a new restaurant, only open a few weeks. It is the third restaurant in this location in the last decade. Since its walkable from our house I'd really like it to do well. On a Wednesday night it was packed at 6 pm , that's a good sign. They were originally supposed to open in June, so the people in the neighborhood have been waiting a while. Outdoor seating option is also a bonus, though it isn't very scenic. The inside of the restaurant is decorated in barn wood. Cozy but not dark, and certainly family-friendly.
We ordered onion rings, a caprese pizza for me (pesto, mozzarella, tomatoes) and boneless wings for Eric. There was a mix-up, so we were brought someone else's food instead (bbq and buffalo wings). Which we got to take home, since they couldn't bring it back to the kitchen. (Hence my colleague taste-testers - I brought these bone-in wings to work on Friday). Our waitress was nice, but seemed fairly green - we also had to wait for plates and condiments. But I bet she'll be a pro within the week.
The onion rings needed salt, but were otherwise good. The pizza was fine. Eric said he prefers buffalo wild wings, but that his dinner still tasted good (he chose the pesto and the mango sauces). The lunch crowd at work was happy for the wings surprise, and very much appreciated them. One person asked if they were from Wings over Worcester, and I've only heard favorable reviews of that place.
I'd go to Wicked Wings again. Especially because they have fried mac and cheese balls, which sound interesting. (If only they were on a stick, I think they'd qualify as fair food).
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Belmont Vegetarian Restaurant, 157 Belmont St. (September 9)
Overall impression: Stick with it through the somewhat sterile atmosphere, the food is really good.
http://www.belmontvegetarian.com/
I covered an 11am - 2pm class this last week, and completely forgot to bring any lunch with me to work that day. So I went for takeout to Belmont Vegetarian restaurant, a place my friend Ara recommended months ago. It was a bit of a distance from work, but worth it for hot food that didn't come from a cafeteria.
This restaurant is right across the street from a school, and perhaps driving there around 2pm wasn't the best idea. But I did find parking immediately, and only had to wait for one school bus. When I walked in there was just one person sitting at one of the handful of tables, reading (not eating... hmmm). Sports radio was on. The counter where one orders didn't actually show any visible food, and was completely covered in plexiglass (you speak through a cut out, same with passing payment). So, atmosphere not too welcoming.
However, the young man who came to take my order was very welcoming. He suggested I get everything they had that day. Which is what I did (minus the pepper steak, I don't want to eat anything called steak, even if it is mock meat). They serve up two sizes of round container (I got the small). Rice goes in and then I had all the various dishes added on top.
I ate back at work, and found it yummy. My favorites were the curry, the vegetable stew and the beans. The mac and cheese was fine, but I wouldn't order only that. The sauce on some other mock meat was a bit too sweet for me. But I'm glad I tried it all. Now I know to get curry and vegetables in the future to be most happy.
The food isn't cheap, but they gave me a lot. I thought I'd have leftovers. Turns out that when I eat lunch at 2:30 though, I end up cleaning my plate.
(And apologies for no pictures lately... Eric is my photographer and he hasn't joined me the last few places.)
http://www.belmontvegetarian.com/
I covered an 11am - 2pm class this last week, and completely forgot to bring any lunch with me to work that day. So I went for takeout to Belmont Vegetarian restaurant, a place my friend Ara recommended months ago. It was a bit of a distance from work, but worth it for hot food that didn't come from a cafeteria.
This restaurant is right across the street from a school, and perhaps driving there around 2pm wasn't the best idea. But I did find parking immediately, and only had to wait for one school bus. When I walked in there was just one person sitting at one of the handful of tables, reading (not eating... hmmm). Sports radio was on. The counter where one orders didn't actually show any visible food, and was completely covered in plexiglass (you speak through a cut out, same with passing payment). So, atmosphere not too welcoming.
However, the young man who came to take my order was very welcoming. He suggested I get everything they had that day. Which is what I did (minus the pepper steak, I don't want to eat anything called steak, even if it is mock meat). They serve up two sizes of round container (I got the small). Rice goes in and then I had all the various dishes added on top.
I ate back at work, and found it yummy. My favorites were the curry, the vegetable stew and the beans. The mac and cheese was fine, but I wouldn't order only that. The sauce on some other mock meat was a bit too sweet for me. But I'm glad I tried it all. Now I know to get curry and vegetables in the future to be most happy.
The food isn't cheap, but they gave me a lot. I thought I'd have leftovers. Turns out that when I eat lunch at 2:30 though, I end up cleaning my plate.
(And apologies for no pictures lately... Eric is my photographer and he hasn't joined me the last few places.)
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
On the Rise Bakery (Sept 6)
Overall impression: Great for west-siders who have a sweet tooth.
http://www.ontherisebaking.com/
I took myself to On the Rise on Sunday morning, hoping to have coffee and a croissant. The website had fabulous-looking croissants. Alas, there were none of the flaky pastry to be had, but I did have a nice cappuccino. Since my sugar diet I haven't been much for sweets, but if you want a fancy coffee this is your place - they have things like almond joy lattes. My plain jane drink was just fine, and I did appreciate that when I ordered it "for here" I got an actual ceramic mug without having to ask.
I had my coffee at one of the two outside tablesThe other table had a small group of men drinking espresso and speaking a lovely slavic language I'm embarassed to say I couldn't identify. And a boy of about 8 or 10 who looked bored out of his mind, poor thing. I thought it was refreshing to be outside on a hot sunny day.
Not feeling I had the full experience, I went back in for a peach cobbler to go. I brought it to my friend Sarah so I could have input on the goodies. Her report was that it was good, but achingly sweet. She couldn't tell if the peaches were fresh or some sort of preserved (either way, cooked). She also said she had a major sugar crash afterwards. So...good? Depends on your feelings toward sweet.
I don't think they have bakers working Sunday, so I'll have to go back another time to try the croissants. (Its a bit dangerous for me, though, as its right next to a yarn store and like any good knitter I have a slight yarn-purchasing problem). Maybe I'll meet a friend from the West Side there sometime,
Post script -- It was a stretch of 10 days between my most recent new places, and both were coffee shops. I had been gone to Minnesota, and then got a very bad cold. This coming week I'll try to visit someplace with substantial food.
http://www.ontherisebaking.com/
I took myself to On the Rise on Sunday morning, hoping to have coffee and a croissant. The website had fabulous-looking croissants. Alas, there were none of the flaky pastry to be had, but I did have a nice cappuccino. Since my sugar diet I haven't been much for sweets, but if you want a fancy coffee this is your place - they have things like almond joy lattes. My plain jane drink was just fine, and I did appreciate that when I ordered it "for here" I got an actual ceramic mug without having to ask.
I had my coffee at one of the two outside tablesThe other table had a small group of men drinking espresso and speaking a lovely slavic language I'm embarassed to say I couldn't identify. And a boy of about 8 or 10 who looked bored out of his mind, poor thing. I thought it was refreshing to be outside on a hot sunny day.
Not feeling I had the full experience, I went back in for a peach cobbler to go. I brought it to my friend Sarah so I could have input on the goodies. Her report was that it was good, but achingly sweet. She couldn't tell if the peaches were fresh or some sort of preserved (either way, cooked). She also said she had a major sugar crash afterwards. So...good? Depends on your feelings toward sweet.
I don't think they have bakers working Sunday, so I'll have to go back another time to try the croissants. (Its a bit dangerous for me, though, as its right next to a yarn store and like any good knitter I have a slight yarn-purchasing problem). Maybe I'll meet a friend from the West Side there sometime,
Post script -- It was a stretch of 10 days between my most recent new places, and both were coffee shops. I had been gone to Minnesota, and then got a very bad cold. This coming week I'll try to visit someplace with substantial food.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
The Bean Counter 113 Highland St (August 26)
Overall impression: Great coffee.
http://www.beancounterbakery.com/
This year I squeezed in an end-of-summer long weekend away. I didn't have much time to get in a new Worcester experience last week before leaving, so I just grabbed a quick iced coffee. Technically I may have been at the Bean Counter before, but it had been at least 9 years (and I had never sat for coffee). I spent a good 30 minutes there this time, reading while sitting in a comfy chair. And it gets a thumbs up - tasty coffee.
I think it was just around moving in time at WPI when I visited, and there weren't too many people sitting in with drinks (or eating pastries - the pastries looked awesome). I don't know what its like when the semester is in full swing, but there is a lot of space. So don't be deterred! Street parking wasn't bad either. I actually had to walk back to my car to raid my parking coins - I didn't have quite enough cash in my wallet to cover my drink. I really appreciated that it was waiting for me when I got back. Good service.
Also - I loved the classic rock music selection. This place is worth visiting as much as possible.
http://www.beancounterbakery.com/
This year I squeezed in an end-of-summer long weekend away. I didn't have much time to get in a new Worcester experience last week before leaving, so I just grabbed a quick iced coffee. Technically I may have been at the Bean Counter before, but it had been at least 9 years (and I had never sat for coffee). I spent a good 30 minutes there this time, reading while sitting in a comfy chair. And it gets a thumbs up - tasty coffee.
I think it was just around moving in time at WPI when I visited, and there weren't too many people sitting in with drinks (or eating pastries - the pastries looked awesome). I don't know what its like when the semester is in full swing, but there is a lot of space. So don't be deterred! Street parking wasn't bad either. I actually had to walk back to my car to raid my parking coins - I didn't have quite enough cash in my wallet to cover my drink. I really appreciated that it was waiting for me when I got back. Good service.
Also - I loved the classic rock music selection. This place is worth visiting as much as possible.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Blue Jeans Bistro, 266 Park Ave, August 19
Overall impression: Lovely to sit outside on a summer night. Somewhat slow service, but fine food, including a large selection of appetizers.
(For general info go to: http://worcesterscene.com/worcester/restaurants/blue-jeans-bistro/
I can't find a dedicated bistro site, but Blue Jeans pizza is at http://www.bluejeanspizza.com/)
The building next to Blue Jeans pizza now houses "Blue Jeans Bistro" on the first floor, open Wednesday-Sunday. We have had Blue Jeans pizza before (mmm...) and were drawn to the Bistro by $5 burger Wednesdays and outside seating on a warm night. We were the only bistro customers outside or in, but a pizza-eating family with lots of small kids livened up the outdoor atmosphere. Overall it was a good experience.
[We had only been to this building once, 10 years ago. This was a time we spent a weekend in Worcester looking at apartments and doing the final decision-making process about relocating. Eric had been out for his job interview, and I requested to see the city before moving all the way across the country. We decided to check out the only Thai restaurant we could find then, which was in the now Blue Jeans Bistro/Loft 266 space. And - it was awful. God-awful. Limp rice noodles with vinegar kind of awful. I was sure it was a mafia front. It was a major shock to the system coming from Berkeley, CA, with world-class Thai food on almost every street. Yet we still moved. I am so happy that there are a few good Thai places in Worcester now (see Basil N Spice review). And that now a lovely pub-type restaurant has replaced the horrible old place.]
We started with potato skins. There aren't that many vegetarian things for main courses, but the appetizer list is jam-packed. I then had a great salad and Eric had the burger and onion strings and a beer. The server was very pleasant, though the food took a while. That was ok, we were enjoying the evening.
I think this would be a great place to go for drinks and munchies with a group of friends after work. Bonus for us it is on the edge of the west side (where many of our friends live) but not far from our house (north Worcester). And its close to That's Entertainment, where I am weekly or bi-weekly.
(For general info go to: http://worcesterscene.com/worcester/restaurants/blue-jeans-bistro/
I can't find a dedicated bistro site, but Blue Jeans pizza is at http://www.bluejeanspizza.com/)
The building next to Blue Jeans pizza now houses "Blue Jeans Bistro" on the first floor, open Wednesday-Sunday. We have had Blue Jeans pizza before (mmm...) and were drawn to the Bistro by $5 burger Wednesdays and outside seating on a warm night. We were the only bistro customers outside or in, but a pizza-eating family with lots of small kids livened up the outdoor atmosphere. Overall it was a good experience.
[We had only been to this building once, 10 years ago. This was a time we spent a weekend in Worcester looking at apartments and doing the final decision-making process about relocating. Eric had been out for his job interview, and I requested to see the city before moving all the way across the country. We decided to check out the only Thai restaurant we could find then, which was in the now Blue Jeans Bistro/Loft 266 space. And - it was awful. God-awful. Limp rice noodles with vinegar kind of awful. I was sure it was a mafia front. It was a major shock to the system coming from Berkeley, CA, with world-class Thai food on almost every street. Yet we still moved. I am so happy that there are a few good Thai places in Worcester now (see Basil N Spice review). And that now a lovely pub-type restaurant has replaced the horrible old place.]
We started with potato skins. There aren't that many vegetarian things for main courses, but the appetizer list is jam-packed. I then had a great salad and Eric had the burger and onion strings and a beer. The server was very pleasant, though the food took a while. That was ok, we were enjoying the evening.
I think this would be a great place to go for drinks and munchies with a group of friends after work. Bonus for us it is on the edge of the west side (where many of our friends live) but not far from our house (north Worcester). And its close to That's Entertainment, where I am weekly or bi-weekly.
Sunday, August 16, 2015
Sol of Mexico, 538 Pleasant St., August 12 and 15
Overall impression: This place is fabulous!
http://solofmexico.yolasite.com/
http://www.solofmexico.com/
We have wanted to try Sol of Mexico for years, but have been thwarted by the afternoon-only opening times. (I believe this was started just as a place to sell homemade tortillas, then the owner branched out a bit). As I had one last week of flexible summer schedule, however, I went there on a Wednesday and got take-out for lunch. To my happy surprise it is open Fridays and Saturdays 12-9, so we can go for weekend lunch/dinner. Which is great because I loved it on my own, and Eric loved it when I took him back three days later.
On the Wednesday I got in right at opening. By the time my order was ready there were five other customers and the three small tables were filled. Popularity is a good sign. I tried to order tamales, but she didn't have any, to everyone's disappointment (all parties were seeking tamales that day). But she promised tamales on Saturday, which is why I went back so quickly. For my take-out order I got a veggie burrito, chips and guacamole. Even the small (4 oz) guac is too much for one person, one sitting, but it was wonderful. The burrito was also too much for one sitting, but I didn't let that stop me and I ate it all. It was grilled just the perfect amount and tasted superb.
On Saturday, Eric and I were the only customers at 12:40. I guess it gets more of a work-lunch crowd, but regardless we were happy to sit down there. The ceiling is a beautiful shade of green and it was a bright sunny day. We both got tamales, mine veggie. They were well worth the wait. I also had a veggie taco (good, but I think I like the burrito better) and Eric got fish tacos. He was impressed, and started planning the next time in our schedule that we can return.
So - 5 stars, 2 thumbs up, etc. Yummy food, nice owner, pretty inside. Lovely.
http://solofmexico.yolasite.com/
http://www.solofmexico.com/
We have wanted to try Sol of Mexico for years, but have been thwarted by the afternoon-only opening times. (I believe this was started just as a place to sell homemade tortillas, then the owner branched out a bit). As I had one last week of flexible summer schedule, however, I went there on a Wednesday and got take-out for lunch. To my happy surprise it is open Fridays and Saturdays 12-9, so we can go for weekend lunch/dinner. Which is great because I loved it on my own, and Eric loved it when I took him back three days later.
On the Wednesday I got in right at opening. By the time my order was ready there were five other customers and the three small tables were filled. Popularity is a good sign. I tried to order tamales, but she didn't have any, to everyone's disappointment (all parties were seeking tamales that day). But she promised tamales on Saturday, which is why I went back so quickly. For my take-out order I got a veggie burrito, chips and guacamole. Even the small (4 oz) guac is too much for one person, one sitting, but it was wonderful. The burrito was also too much for one sitting, but I didn't let that stop me and I ate it all. It was grilled just the perfect amount and tasted superb.
On Saturday, Eric and I were the only customers at 12:40. I guess it gets more of a work-lunch crowd, but regardless we were happy to sit down there. The ceiling is a beautiful shade of green and it was a bright sunny day. We both got tamales, mine veggie. They were well worth the wait. I also had a veggie taco (good, but I think I like the burrito better) and Eric got fish tacos. He was impressed, and started planning the next time in our schedule that we can return.
So - 5 stars, 2 thumbs up, etc. Yummy food, nice owner, pretty inside. Lovely.
Saturday, August 8, 2015
Chuan Shabu 301 Park Ave August 5
Overall impression: Go for sharing.
http://www.shabuworcester.com/
I went Shabu with too many limitations in my mind, and didn't have the best experience. If you visit- be open to trying anything on the menu. Make sure you are into hot soup. Maybe have a mai tai. Then it should be great.
Eric never really wanted to try this restaurant, but we went in a quest for this week's new place. Knitting friends said that they had good food, including Chinese dishes and appetizers other than hot pot. I think I'd be into hot pot, but Eric doesn't really like hot liquids (no coffee, tea, etc. He used to have hot chocolate about once a year in an airport Starbucks until he discovered frappucinos, so now hot cocoa is out too). I didn't want to do it on my own, so we both ordered other things on the menu.
Unfortunately I wasn't impressed by the scallion pancakes, or the veggie fried rice (the only large vegetarian option). But Eric thought the orange chicken was really good, so ironically he enjoyed his food experience much more than I did! Even though we didn't use it, we thought the induction cook top was awesome. So did the people next to us - this was their first time for hot pot and they were excited. They asked the young couple next to them all about it, and were told that it would be super fun. So - this means I have to go back with a larger group and have the soup. There were some really cool looking mushrooms for the cooking, I'd like to try those.
The ambience was nice. A guy with his daughters, couples, groups of friends. There are drawbacks to the seating though. Since the tables don't move, bench seating isn't good for those with long legs - too cramped. There are chairs in addition to built-in benches, but the chairs are for giant people. If I sat in one I wouldn't be able to lean against the back rest because the seat is so big. These are the problems of being 5'1" and having a 6'3" husband - nothing seems to fit us right. The parking is also bad, only a few tiny spots. (Next to a giant parking lot for bank business only). If you go, try to park on a neighborhood street parallel to Park Ave.
If you go, ask me along. It warrants a second try from me.
http://www.shabuworcester.com/
I went Shabu with too many limitations in my mind, and didn't have the best experience. If you visit- be open to trying anything on the menu. Make sure you are into hot soup. Maybe have a mai tai. Then it should be great.
Eric never really wanted to try this restaurant, but we went in a quest for this week's new place. Knitting friends said that they had good food, including Chinese dishes and appetizers other than hot pot. I think I'd be into hot pot, but Eric doesn't really like hot liquids (no coffee, tea, etc. He used to have hot chocolate about once a year in an airport Starbucks until he discovered frappucinos, so now hot cocoa is out too). I didn't want to do it on my own, so we both ordered other things on the menu.
Unfortunately I wasn't impressed by the scallion pancakes, or the veggie fried rice (the only large vegetarian option). But Eric thought the orange chicken was really good, so ironically he enjoyed his food experience much more than I did! Even though we didn't use it, we thought the induction cook top was awesome. So did the people next to us - this was their first time for hot pot and they were excited. They asked the young couple next to them all about it, and were told that it would be super fun. So - this means I have to go back with a larger group and have the soup. There were some really cool looking mushrooms for the cooking, I'd like to try those.
The ambience was nice. A guy with his daughters, couples, groups of friends. There are drawbacks to the seating though. Since the tables don't move, bench seating isn't good for those with long legs - too cramped. There are chairs in addition to built-in benches, but the chairs are for giant people. If I sat in one I wouldn't be able to lean against the back rest because the seat is so big. These are the problems of being 5'1" and having a 6'3" husband - nothing seems to fit us right. The parking is also bad, only a few tiny spots. (Next to a giant parking lot for bank business only). If you go, try to park on a neighborhood street parallel to Park Ave.
If you go, ask me along. It warrants a second try from me.
Sunday, August 2, 2015
Pinecroft Dairy (West Boylston) July 31
Overall impression: Like going back in time, but with modern ice cream flavors.
http://www.pinecroftdairy.com/
We just recently returned from a trip to Minnesota, land of 10,000 lakes and many ice cream shops. So I thought when we got back we'd do a bit of comparison. This was kind of a cheating week - Pinecroft Dairy is in West Boylston rather than Worcester. I figured maybe I could have one restaurant in each Worcester-adjoining town this year. Anyway, my ulterior motive for heading out there was to explore possible new biking routes for my husband, and since we live in north Worcester this isn't too far.
I had heard about the ice cream at Pinecroft from a former neighbor a number of years ago. He was 10 at the time and gave it rave reviews. Meola's is our usual spot, but it is good to branch out. Plus, there is a farmer's market at Pinecroft in the summer. Also - this is a full sit-down restaurant (with walk-up window service too). More than half the booths circle a large counter and center area where ice cream is scooped and treats are made. Neat-o! (As Eric said, its kind of like stepping back in time, so I think that word is appropriate).
We went on a Friday for lunch. The decor is dark and woody, and the music seemed to run pop female artists from the 80's (Belinda Carlisle, Sinead O'Connor, Whitney Houston). Perfectly enjoyable. We had a veggie burger and fish and chips. The fries were good, the rest of the food was fine but not anything outstanding. The ice cream was great, though. Eric had cookie dough and I had no-sugar-added peanut butter. The peanut butter taste was extreme, which I was in favor of.
The folks out for lunch were a diverse lot in age - this seems like a multigenerational gathering place. Great for grandparents and kids to go together. Multigenarational servers too, we were helped by a very nice woman and her teenage daughter. I would stop for ice cream here again if I'm in the neighborhood. Possibly in the middle of a bike ride.
http://www.pinecroftdairy.com/
We just recently returned from a trip to Minnesota, land of 10,000 lakes and many ice cream shops. So I thought when we got back we'd do a bit of comparison. This was kind of a cheating week - Pinecroft Dairy is in West Boylston rather than Worcester. I figured maybe I could have one restaurant in each Worcester-adjoining town this year. Anyway, my ulterior motive for heading out there was to explore possible new biking routes for my husband, and since we live in north Worcester this isn't too far.
I had heard about the ice cream at Pinecroft from a former neighbor a number of years ago. He was 10 at the time and gave it rave reviews. Meola's is our usual spot, but it is good to branch out. Plus, there is a farmer's market at Pinecroft in the summer. Also - this is a full sit-down restaurant (with walk-up window service too). More than half the booths circle a large counter and center area where ice cream is scooped and treats are made. Neat-o! (As Eric said, its kind of like stepping back in time, so I think that word is appropriate).
We went on a Friday for lunch. The decor is dark and woody, and the music seemed to run pop female artists from the 80's (Belinda Carlisle, Sinead O'Connor, Whitney Houston). Perfectly enjoyable. We had a veggie burger and fish and chips. The fries were good, the rest of the food was fine but not anything outstanding. The ice cream was great, though. Eric had cookie dough and I had no-sugar-added peanut butter. The peanut butter taste was extreme, which I was in favor of.
The folks out for lunch were a diverse lot in age - this seems like a multigenerational gathering place. Great for grandparents and kids to go together. Multigenarational servers too, we were helped by a very nice woman and her teenage daughter. I would stop for ice cream here again if I'm in the neighborhood. Possibly in the middle of a bike ride.
Monday, July 20, 2015
Loving Hut Vegan Cuisine 415 Chandler St. (July 20)
Overall impression: Good vegan Chinese and Thai-style dishes. Nice for lunch.
http://www.lovinghut.us/worcester/
After popping in for a few hours to work I took myself to lunch. Loving Hut is a restaurant I should have tried years ago, being vegetarian. Perhaps I did have a spring roll from their stand at stART on the street once, but that's it. I vaguely recall a friend saying she thought the food was heavy, plus it is on the other side of town from me... those are my excuses. (Plus my husband isn't likely to want to try a vegan restaurant.) But today I had to stop over at That's Entertainment for a new comic, anyway, and it was a summer day in which I had the car (Eric gets it a lot when I have July-August vacation). So lunch there fit in with my plans. And it wasn't too heavy! Just right, at least with what I ordered.
I had other false preconceptions, I don't know where they came from. For example, I assumed it would be mostly a counter to order and very few tables. There were lots of tables, however, and though about a quarter of the 20-or-so people who were in and out while I was there got takeout most of us were dining in. I was there from 11:45 to 12:45 on a Monday, and there were groups of friends, a couple family units and another solo diner.
I had the scallion pancakes (yum) and the snow peas with soy protein. I purposefully chose something vegetable-laden, and it tasted very good. I liked what I got better than the dishes I've had at Nancy Chang's, in the same neighborhood (though I don't want to disparage Nanch Chang's). I also ordered Thai iced tea without the soymilk, but didn't drink it because it was super-sweet. I thought it would just be tea on ice, as the sweetener in a Thai iced tea is usually the condensed milk. Anyway, they asked after the un-drunk tea and took it off my bill, which was very nice.
The food arrives quickly and is piping hot. Drinks and smoothies seem to take longer, as did waiting for my check. But if I was in a hurry I could have requested my bill and change earlier, I'm sure. I will likely be back to treat myself to a lunch break or to meet friends from the west side.
http://www.lovinghut.us/worcester/
After popping in for a few hours to work I took myself to lunch. Loving Hut is a restaurant I should have tried years ago, being vegetarian. Perhaps I did have a spring roll from their stand at stART on the street once, but that's it. I vaguely recall a friend saying she thought the food was heavy, plus it is on the other side of town from me... those are my excuses. (Plus my husband isn't likely to want to try a vegan restaurant.) But today I had to stop over at That's Entertainment for a new comic, anyway, and it was a summer day in which I had the car (Eric gets it a lot when I have July-August vacation). So lunch there fit in with my plans. And it wasn't too heavy! Just right, at least with what I ordered.
I had other false preconceptions, I don't know where they came from. For example, I assumed it would be mostly a counter to order and very few tables. There were lots of tables, however, and though about a quarter of the 20-or-so people who were in and out while I was there got takeout most of us were dining in. I was there from 11:45 to 12:45 on a Monday, and there were groups of friends, a couple family units and another solo diner.
I had the scallion pancakes (yum) and the snow peas with soy protein. I purposefully chose something vegetable-laden, and it tasted very good. I liked what I got better than the dishes I've had at Nancy Chang's, in the same neighborhood (though I don't want to disparage Nanch Chang's). I also ordered Thai iced tea without the soymilk, but didn't drink it because it was super-sweet. I thought it would just be tea on ice, as the sweetener in a Thai iced tea is usually the condensed milk. Anyway, they asked after the un-drunk tea and took it off my bill, which was very nice.
The food arrives quickly and is piping hot. Drinks and smoothies seem to take longer, as did waiting for my check. But if I was in a hurry I could have requested my bill and change earlier, I'm sure. I will likely be back to treat myself to a lunch break or to meet friends from the west side.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Canal Restaurant & Bar 65 Water St. (July 15)
Overall impression: Great place to go for drinks. Large and diverse food menu, attentive service.
http://thecanalrestaurant.com/
I'm normally not one to get excited about Cajun/Creole food, mainly because I'm a vegetarian and it usually isn't the right fit. When we visited New Orleans a couple of years ago the only "classic" local cuisine I could eat were beignets (but hey - beignets!). Lucky for me, however, I have the new-place-a-week challenge, so that got us out to the Canal Restaurant (New Orleans Cuisine). I liked it, and I'd like to go again. The food was good, not amazing (I'll have to try some more dishes to get a better picture), but the relaxed bar atmosphere was nice.
Early-ish on a Wednesday evening it was pretty quiet. There was a group finishing up a meal at one of the other high-tops at the bar plus a few regulars coming in, having drinks at the tables outside. It was biker night, I believe, both the Canal and the bar across the street had lots of motorcycles parked out front. I wonder how busy they get late at night, when there is music. (Though late night DJ isn't so much our scene, so I probably won't ever find out first-hand. I was actually confused by the website announcing "Djing". I though, Jing? What do they mean by Jing? Oh, right, DJ-ing). Anyway, quiet was relaxing. The space is comfortable, set just below street level but very open feeling. The non-DJ music runs towards 80's hits.
I had a cocktail, a cucumber jack. Vodka, tequila, cucumber, lime. Good, but I'm not completely sold on the cucumber and lime combo. For food we started with the fries of the day (yucca), and Eric had shrimp tacos, which he enjoyed. I tried the roast vegetable jumbalaya, mostly because I hadn't had jumbalaya before and liked the idea of a vegetarian version. Unfortunately I don't think jumbalaya is my thing, but that's ok. For dessert we shared a gigantic piece of chocolate cake. I have been mostly off of eating added sugar for over a year, no cookies or cake except for my birthday. My birthday is in one week, so I declared this the dessert occassion. It was lovely. (Sorry to say, no beignets).
I think this is a great place to meet friends after work. On a July or August Thursday you could go to the farmer's market at Crompton place in the evening, then head over to the Canal for refreshment (alternating weekly with El Patron, of course). Beautiful summertime!
http://thecanalrestaurant.com/
I'm normally not one to get excited about Cajun/Creole food, mainly because I'm a vegetarian and it usually isn't the right fit. When we visited New Orleans a couple of years ago the only "classic" local cuisine I could eat were beignets (but hey - beignets!). Lucky for me, however, I have the new-place-a-week challenge, so that got us out to the Canal Restaurant (New Orleans Cuisine). I liked it, and I'd like to go again. The food was good, not amazing (I'll have to try some more dishes to get a better picture), but the relaxed bar atmosphere was nice.
Early-ish on a Wednesday evening it was pretty quiet. There was a group finishing up a meal at one of the other high-tops at the bar plus a few regulars coming in, having drinks at the tables outside. It was biker night, I believe, both the Canal and the bar across the street had lots of motorcycles parked out front. I wonder how busy they get late at night, when there is music. (Though late night DJ isn't so much our scene, so I probably won't ever find out first-hand. I was actually confused by the website announcing "Djing". I though, Jing? What do they mean by Jing? Oh, right, DJ-ing). Anyway, quiet was relaxing. The space is comfortable, set just below street level but very open feeling. The non-DJ music runs towards 80's hits.
I had a cocktail, a cucumber jack. Vodka, tequila, cucumber, lime. Good, but I'm not completely sold on the cucumber and lime combo. For food we started with the fries of the day (yucca), and Eric had shrimp tacos, which he enjoyed. I tried the roast vegetable jumbalaya, mostly because I hadn't had jumbalaya before and liked the idea of a vegetarian version. Unfortunately I don't think jumbalaya is my thing, but that's ok. For dessert we shared a gigantic piece of chocolate cake. I have been mostly off of eating added sugar for over a year, no cookies or cake except for my birthday. My birthday is in one week, so I declared this the dessert occassion. It was lovely. (Sorry to say, no beignets).
I think this is a great place to meet friends after work. On a July or August Thursday you could go to the farmer's market at Crompton place in the evening, then head over to the Canal for refreshment (alternating weekly with El Patron, of course). Beautiful summertime!
Friday, July 10, 2015
Mid-year review: Best of the new-for-me restaurants of Worcester
Today I tried a vegetarian/vegan restaurant in Framingham with a friend (Greenleaf - it was excellent). Since my friend lives that way and I met her by her house, I won't get in a novel Worcester restaurant this week. So instead I give my half-year review. These are the places we have tried since January that we continue to return to:
1) Fatima's Cafe.
I love this place. The samosas are brilliant, the family is so nice, and it is close by. We have dined-in and I've also gotten dishes to-go for my students and my book group. In fact, we were there last night. A brief moment of panic occurred, as there is a realtor's "available" sign on the building and they had forgotten to turn on the "open" light in the window. We thought they had closed down - that would be tragedy! In fact, they are open and doing well, though the building has just been sold. Hopefully the new building owners will keep them as tenants. If not, we'll follow to whatever new location they find.
2) El Patron.
Not only do we keep going back, I keep ordering the same dish (drenched burrito with grilled veggies instead of meat, and chips & guacamole). A favorite dish is both a delight and a danger -my friend Ara insists I need to try the tortas, and I really shouldn't limit myself. El Patron is popular with our friends and co-workers, we usually don't go alone.
3) Cafe Reyes.
The salads here are wonderful, and I can even request veggie empanadas. I love the coffee. Eric likes that he can walk there for lunch since its right by his work.
4) The Urban. NOTE - THIS IS NOW CLOSED.
We've only been a few times, but really like it for drinks and special occasions. The ambience is fabulous, the music they play is the music we play, and the food is flavorful.
Additionally, these are the places we have only been to just once, but are anxious to get back to:
Bay State Schawarma and Grill (Such good falafel); Basil N Spice (We only tried it a few weeks ago - we'll go again soon); Mare e Monti (We did attempt a return in May, but they were filled with graduation parties. Perhaps a weeknight this summer.)
And just to give them a mention: these are the places I go to frequently, but they were already old hat when I started the new-food establishment-a-week project, so I have never blogged about them:
Birch tree bread company, Volturno, Sweet, Bollywood Grill (Shrewsbury), Il Forno (West Boylston), Wild Willy's Burgers.
Happy Eating!
1) Fatima's Cafe.
I love this place. The samosas are brilliant, the family is so nice, and it is close by. We have dined-in and I've also gotten dishes to-go for my students and my book group. In fact, we were there last night. A brief moment of panic occurred, as there is a realtor's "available" sign on the building and they had forgotten to turn on the "open" light in the window. We thought they had closed down - that would be tragedy! In fact, they are open and doing well, though the building has just been sold. Hopefully the new building owners will keep them as tenants. If not, we'll follow to whatever new location they find.
2) El Patron.
Not only do we keep going back, I keep ordering the same dish (drenched burrito with grilled veggies instead of meat, and chips & guacamole). A favorite dish is both a delight and a danger -my friend Ara insists I need to try the tortas, and I really shouldn't limit myself. El Patron is popular with our friends and co-workers, we usually don't go alone.
3) Cafe Reyes.
The salads here are wonderful, and I can even request veggie empanadas. I love the coffee. Eric likes that he can walk there for lunch since its right by his work.
4) The Urban. NOTE - THIS IS NOW CLOSED.
We've only been a few times, but really like it for drinks and special occasions. The ambience is fabulous, the music they play is the music we play, and the food is flavorful.
Additionally, these are the places we have only been to just once, but are anxious to get back to:
Bay State Schawarma and Grill (Such good falafel); Basil N Spice (We only tried it a few weeks ago - we'll go again soon); Mare e Monti (We did attempt a return in May, but they were filled with graduation parties. Perhaps a weeknight this summer.)
And just to give them a mention: these are the places I go to frequently, but they were already old hat when I started the new-food establishment-a-week project, so I have never blogged about them:
Birch tree bread company, Volturno, Sweet, Bollywood Grill (Shrewsbury), Il Forno (West Boylston), Wild Willy's Burgers.
Happy Eating!
Friday, July 3, 2015
Corner Lunch, 133 Lamartine St (July 3)
Overall impression: A perfectly pleasant, sort of rundown-comfy, sunny diner.
http://m.mainstreethub.com/cornerlunchdiner
Several days were spent in Wisconsin last week. We had yummy Indian food plus midwestern family-reunion potluck. Now that we're back in Mass it is time for classic Worcester again. Diner food! This time for lunch, instead of breakfast, though we could have had omelettes and pancakes if we wanted.
I felt it was sort of cheating on my quest to seek out new places, in that we chose Corner Lunch because Eric got a groupon. He loves groupons. And hey, they do get us to new places. I had driven by once or twice before, but never really noticed it. It is right down the street from Miss Worcester, which I like a lot. It isn't fair to compare it to Miss Worcester, though, as they really are different beasts. Yes, they are both classic diners. But Corner Lunch is bigger and has a different vibe. Its pink and green inside! Both are good.
As it was Friday July 3 (meaning a day off for the long holiday weekend for lots of people) it was slammed. We only waited a few minutes for a table, but the service was a little slow since there was only one extremely busy waitress. She was nice, everybody was. It was loud with all the people and a very vocal toddler. But on a beautiful day off for us that didn't matter at all. Corner Lunch sits on a triangle corner, has windows on three sides and the fourth wall is covered in mirror. So on a sunny day- shiny!
I had grilled cheese with tomato, Eric got fish and chips. I thought he might want the nacho jalapeno cheeseburger special, but he'd had a burger the night before. There were many options for the fish - beer battered, breaded, chipotle, others. He liked his food, mine was just fine. I was almost breaking my rule that a meal has to have at least three colors, but the pickle and the tomato slices saved me. The fries are just crinkle cut potatoes - simple and classic. Nothing fancy-schmancy with coating or seasoning. (Eric rails against the gentrification of french fries in the last decade.) And the iced coffee was perfect.
I'm not sure we'll head back again, but it was a dandy experience.
http://m.mainstreethub.com/cornerlunchdiner
Several days were spent in Wisconsin last week. We had yummy Indian food plus midwestern family-reunion potluck. Now that we're back in Mass it is time for classic Worcester again. Diner food! This time for lunch, instead of breakfast, though we could have had omelettes and pancakes if we wanted.
I felt it was sort of cheating on my quest to seek out new places, in that we chose Corner Lunch because Eric got a groupon. He loves groupons. And hey, they do get us to new places. I had driven by once or twice before, but never really noticed it. It is right down the street from Miss Worcester, which I like a lot. It isn't fair to compare it to Miss Worcester, though, as they really are different beasts. Yes, they are both classic diners. But Corner Lunch is bigger and has a different vibe. Its pink and green inside! Both are good.
As it was Friday July 3 (meaning a day off for the long holiday weekend for lots of people) it was slammed. We only waited a few minutes for a table, but the service was a little slow since there was only one extremely busy waitress. She was nice, everybody was. It was loud with all the people and a very vocal toddler. But on a beautiful day off for us that didn't matter at all. Corner Lunch sits on a triangle corner, has windows on three sides and the fourth wall is covered in mirror. So on a sunny day- shiny!
I had grilled cheese with tomato, Eric got fish and chips. I thought he might want the nacho jalapeno cheeseburger special, but he'd had a burger the night before. There were many options for the fish - beer battered, breaded, chipotle, others. He liked his food, mine was just fine. I was almost breaking my rule that a meal has to have at least three colors, but the pickle and the tomato slices saved me. The fries are just crinkle cut potatoes - simple and classic. Nothing fancy-schmancy with coating or seasoning. (Eric rails against the gentrification of french fries in the last decade.) And the iced coffee was perfect.
I'm not sure we'll head back again, but it was a dandy experience.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Basil n' Spice 299 Shrewsbury St, June 24
Overall impression: Tasty food and a lovely atmosphere in this newly-opened Thai restaurant.
http://www.basilnspice.com/
I love Thai food. Leaving the fabulous Thai restaurants of Berkeley behind when we came to Worcester was one of the most heartbreaking things of our move. Sure, there had been a couple of options (3, to be exact) in Worcester and Shrewsbury. These are fine, but not stellar. So I am happy to report that our dinner at Basil n' Spice was great. The quality of the ingredients and freshness place them above other local places.
We went to Basil n' Spice on a Wednesday evening. It was a pre-Morrissey show dinner. (How exciting was it that we could see Morrissey at the Hanover, a 10 minute drive from our home?! If only the Hanover theater management would tell their ushers to lay off scolding people standing up. Its a rock show - people stand, people dance. But that is a rant for another time...) Our friend Jennifer was with us, so the vegetarians in our party of three outnumbered meat eaters. And the restaurant had plenty of veggie options. We started with spring rolls and Gui Chai. These are scallion-filled fried dumplings - amazing! I hadn't had them before and they will soon become my go-to appetizer. Eric and Jennifer had curry - Panang curry with chicken and mango curry with tofu, respectively. They both said that there could have been more sauce with the dishes, but that they tasted quite good. I had the drunken noodles with tofu. I should have chosen a less sweet dish, for my personal taste, but it was good. The vegetables were incredibly fresh and cooked perfectly. All the dishes had spice, as it should be. A little kick (little because we didn't ask for more) is perfect.
Jennifer wanted me to point out her straw wrapper was folded into a paper flower - a nod to the details. The staff seem to be working hard to make sure all patrons enjoy themselves. The interior is beautifully done. Service was fast and attentive, and the proprietor stopped by to make sure everything was going well. This restaurant tucked back from Shrewsbury street is definitely worth going to, I think I'll be back many times.
http://www.basilnspice.com/
I love Thai food. Leaving the fabulous Thai restaurants of Berkeley behind when we came to Worcester was one of the most heartbreaking things of our move. Sure, there had been a couple of options (3, to be exact) in Worcester and Shrewsbury. These are fine, but not stellar. So I am happy to report that our dinner at Basil n' Spice was great. The quality of the ingredients and freshness place them above other local places.
We went to Basil n' Spice on a Wednesday evening. It was a pre-Morrissey show dinner. (How exciting was it that we could see Morrissey at the Hanover, a 10 minute drive from our home?! If only the Hanover theater management would tell their ushers to lay off scolding people standing up. Its a rock show - people stand, people dance. But that is a rant for another time...) Our friend Jennifer was with us, so the vegetarians in our party of three outnumbered meat eaters. And the restaurant had plenty of veggie options. We started with spring rolls and Gui Chai. These are scallion-filled fried dumplings - amazing! I hadn't had them before and they will soon become my go-to appetizer. Eric and Jennifer had curry - Panang curry with chicken and mango curry with tofu, respectively. They both said that there could have been more sauce with the dishes, but that they tasted quite good. I had the drunken noodles with tofu. I should have chosen a less sweet dish, for my personal taste, but it was good. The vegetables were incredibly fresh and cooked perfectly. All the dishes had spice, as it should be. A little kick (little because we didn't ask for more) is perfect.
Jennifer wanted me to point out her straw wrapper was folded into a paper flower - a nod to the details. The staff seem to be working hard to make sure all patrons enjoy themselves. The interior is beautifully done. Service was fast and attentive, and the proprietor stopped by to make sure everything was going well. This restaurant tucked back from Shrewsbury street is definitely worth going to, I think I'll be back many times.
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