Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Craft Beer Cellar in Newton Centre Is Moving

The Newton location of a group of specialty beer stores is moving to another part of the city.

Eater Boston is reporting that Craft Beer Cellar in Newton Centre has shut down after being in operation since October of 2013, with the Centre Street shop moving to an undisclosed location in early February. A note within the CBC site gives the reason for the move, saying that "we picked a difficult first location. While we love our space, it was ultimately too big and too pricey."

[March 27, 2015 update: A new article from Eater Boston says that the Newton location of Craft Beer Cellar has completed its move and has soft-opened at 14 Austin Street in Newtonville.]

Currently, other Massachusetts locations of Craft Beer Cellar can be found in Belmont, Braintree, Westford, and Winchester, with EB saying that new ones are on the way to Amesbury, Boston, Plymouth, and Roslindale.

The website for Craft Beer Cellar is at http://www.craftbeercellar.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston

The Patriot Bar in South Boston Is Closing; May Sell Liquor License to Worden Hall

A South Boston bar that recently took over the space where another pub had been for nearly 25 years may be closing, as it is planning to sell its liquor license to a proposed new restaurant that would be located down the street.

An article from Universal Hub confirms what a Twitter post from Donna Goodison of The Boston Herald mentioned last week, that The Patriot (formerly The Blackthorn Pub) near the W Broadway/Dorchester Street intersection is looking to transfer its liquor license to a dining spot called Worden Hall, which would also be on W Broadway near the Broadway T station. According to UH, the person behind the proposed restaurant is Dylan Welsh, who runs Five Horses Tavern in Somerville's Davis Square and Boston's South End.

It is not yet known when The Patriot might close, nor is it known when Worden Hall may open; as soon as we get more information, we will post an update here.

The address for The Patriot is 471 W Broadway, while the address for the proposed Worden Hall is 22 W. Broadway.

[April 22, 2015 update: According to several Facebook posts from the bar, The Patriot in South Boston is now closed, having shut down over the past weekend.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Gaslight Is Opening at MarketStreet Lynnfield

[Ed note: This article was updated on March 19, 2015 to reflect confirmation of the restaurant coming to MarketStreet Lynnfield.]

A few months ago, we reported that The Aquitaine Group was looking to open a new restaurant north of Boston. Now we have learned that it could actually be a second location of one of their South End spots.

According to a Lynnfield board of selectmen agenda page sent from one of our readers (and seemingly confirmed in a Facebook post from the Committee to Preserve Lynnfield), a second location of Gaslight--a French restaurant on Harrison Avenue in Boston's South End--is being proposed for MarketStreet Lynnfield, with the meeting to look into the plans taking place on January 5. This may indeed be the restaurant we mentioned here back in September, though the article stated at the time that it would be a "brand new dining and drinking concept." As soon we find out whether this new restaurant and the proposed Gaslight are one and the same, we will post an update here.

[March 19, 2015 update: A press release sent today confirms that Gaslight will indeed be coming to MarketStreet Lynnfield, with the restaurant opening its doors sometime this year.]

[December 29, 2015 update: A press release states that the new location of Gaslight plans to open in Lynnfield on Monday, January 4, 2016.]

[January 7, 2016 update: A check on the place confirms that the new Gaslight in Lynnfield has indeed opened.]

In addition to Gaslight, The Aquitaine Group also runs such restaurants as Cinquecento, Aquitaine, and Metropolis Cafe.

The website for Gaslight can be found at http://www.gaslight560.com/

[Earlier Article]
The Aquitaine Group to Open a New Restaurant at MarketStreet Lynnfield

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Luke's Lobster Is Opening in Boston's Back Bay

Several months ago, we reported that a New York-based group of eateries featuring lobster rolls was apparently looking into expanding to Boston. Now we have learned that at least one location will indeed be coming to the city.

According to a Twitter post from Donna Goodison of The Boston Herald, Luke's Lobster is looking to open within the Avalon Exeter apartment tower on Exeter Street in the Back Bay, confirming earlier expansion plans that include New York, Philadelphia, Washington, DC, and possibly Chicago. Luke Holden, a former lobsterman and Maine resident, first started the group of lobster shacks in New York's East Village in 2009 with his father along with business partner Ben Conniff; a total of 12 locations are now in operation, as well as a food truck.

[December 31 update: Donna Goodison tells us that according to a zoning board of appeal notice in the Herald from AvalonBay Communities, the owner of the Avalon Exeter apartment tower is petitioning to open Luke's Lobster within the building, so while it is not yet a done deal, it is indeed in the works.]

[June 1, 2015 update: BostInno states that Luke's Lobster is indeed planning to come the Avalon Exeter tower, with the restaurant looking to open in the middle of July. The article says that the new eatery would be a casual seafood shack that gets its lobster from Maine, and in addition to lobster rolls, there will also be chowder and bisque along with crab rolls, shrimp rolls, and more.]

[June 19, 2015 update: A City of Boston Licensing Board page indicates that the Back Bay location of Luke's Lobster could be one step closer to reality next week; it has applied for a common victualler license, with the hearing taking place on Wednesday, June 24.]

[July 15, 2015 update: According to a note from Hub Food Trucks, Luke's Lobster opens its new Back Bay shop on Friday (July 17).]

The address for the new Luke's Lobster in the Back Bay will be 75 Exeter Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for the group of lobster shacks can be found at http://www.lukeslobster.com/

Thanks to Eater Boston for bringing this to our attention.

[Earlier Article]
Is Luke's Lobster Coming to Boston?

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Mike and Patty's in Boston's Bay Village Reopens

A Bay Village breakfast place and sandwich shop that closed a few months ago--and turned to Kickstarter to help fund a number of upgrades--has opened its doors once again.

Eater Boston is reporting that Mike & Patty's on Church Street is now open once again and it has both a renovated interior and a new menu, including such items as bourbon and rum-caramelized bananas with Nutella on buttered brioche bread. The eatery had shut down back in September due at least in part to the need for its space to adhere to building codes (including the installation of a fire suppression system). This isn't the first time that Mike & Patty's has closed, as the restaurant had a tough go of it in 2012 and ultimately ended up closing until an ownership change took place.

The address for the reopened Mike & Patty's in Bay Village is 12 Church Street, Boston, MA, 02116. Its website is at http://www.mikeandpattys.com/

[Earlier Article]
Mike and Patty's in Boston's Bay Village Remains Closed, Turns to Kickstarter for Help

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Highlights for the Week Ending December 26, 2014

A few more stories and articles centering on the Boston-area restaurant scene came out over the past week, including a Cambridge restaurant being severely damaged in a fire, another location of a sandwich shop opening, and a brewery reopening after a license issue. In addition, our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) included a new review of a restaurant and bar in Hyde Park, a photo of a spicy soup from a Chinese dining spot in Stoughton, and a list of "predictions" for 2015.

Below are links to these and other items from the past week:

Boston Restaurant Talk

MuLan Taiwanese Cuisine in Cambridge "Gutted" by Overnight Fire

Al's Cafe Is Opening in Woburn

Trillium Brewing Gets License Approved; Reopens Today

Villa Mexico Is Reopening in Boston

Crystal Jade Is Opening in the Former Alumni Cafe Space in Quincy

Boston's Hidden Restaurants

New Review: The Fairmount Grille in Hyde Park, MA

Photo: Spicy Wonton Soup from Cheng Du in Stoughton, MA

New Blog Post: Some Restaurant and Food "Predictions" for 2015

Updated Review: Garlic 'n Lemons in Allston, MA

Photo: Carrot Cake from The Fairmount Grille in Hyde Park, MA

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Salts in Cambridge Is Apparently Still Hoping to Reopen

It looks like a French-influenced restaurant in Cambridge that has been closed for many months may still be hoping to open back up at some point, at least according to recent actions from the place.

According to a License Commission General Hearing page within the City of Cambridge website, Salts on Main Street between Central Square and Kendall Square "has applied to further extend the inactive status of [its] license," indicating that it may not be closed for good, as some have speculated. Salts was forced to shut down due to a flood in January and has been closed ever since, with the manager saying in a July hearing that the restaurant was "completely destroyed" because of water damage a request was made to have the license become inactive while they figured out when they would be able to rebuild the place (at the time, possibly this past fall); the request was approved by the city and the license has been inactive ever since.

As soon as we hear of the city's decision on whether to allow the license to remain inactive--and any news on if/when Salt might reopen--we will post an update here.

The address for Salts is 798 Main Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website can be found at http://www.saltsrestaurant.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Future of South Street Location of Harvest Co-op in Jamaica Plain in Question

It looks like a trio of community-owned food markets could be down to just two early next year, depending on the outcome of lease negotiations for one of the stores.

According to an article in the Jamaica Plain Patch, Harvest Co-op on South Street in Jamaica Plain faces an uncertain future, as its lease is expiring in February of 2015 and negotiations with the landlord have been "difficult." The article mentions that the market will be holding a meeting on January 5 that includes a public comments session where customers will be able to give their thoughts on the possible shuttering of the shop.

Harvest first opened its South Street store in 1999; the original market opened in Cambridge's Central Square in 1974, while a second JP store opened on Washington Street in the Forest Hills area in late 2012.

The address for the South Street location of Harvest Co-op is 57 South Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130. The website for the markets can be found at http://www.harvestcoop.com/

Thanks to Universal Hub for bringing this to our attention.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Monday, December 29, 2014

Bestsellers Cafe in Medford Is Closing (Again)

A combination bookstore/cafe that reopened two years ago after being shuttered for a long stretch of time is going to be closing again, though this time it appears to be for good.

According to a Facebook post from the place, Bestsellers Cafe in Medford Square is planning to close next month, with the note saying "It is with a heavy heart that we tell you that Bestsellers Cafe will be closing at the end of January, 2015 after 17 years of service to the Medford and surrounding communities. We decided not to renew our lease after unfavorable terms of any lease renewal....Thank you for everything you've done for us."

[January 6, 2015 update: The Medford Transcript mentions that the mayor of Medford met today with both owner Rob Dilman of Bestsellers Cafe and the landlord of the building to see if there was a way to get them closer together on the monthly rent, which is reportedly set to double. And while the bookstore's owner says the chances of the place staying open look a little better now ("more so than it did yesterday"), other issues surrounding the closing still exist. The owner does say that even if the store does close, the business will likely continue, with an online presence remaining in place.]

[January 30, 2015 update: According to a new post on its Facebook page, Bestsellers Cafe in Medford is now closed.]

Bestsellers Cafe closed for the first time back in the early 2007 for what appeared to be renovations, but it was boarded up for approximately five years before reopening in August of 2012. In addition to its bookstore and food offerings, the cafe has also had author events, jazz brunches, open mic nights, and family singalongs.

The address for this soon-to-close bookstore/cafe in Medford is: Bestsellers Cafe, 24 High Street, Medford, MA, 02155.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Biagio Express to Open in Former Mimi's Roast Beef Space in Waltham

It looks like the people behind an Italian restaurant in Waltham will be opening a new quick-service dining spot nearby, taking over the space where a roast beef joint had been.

According to a Twitter post from @y2000k (and also mentioned by the Waltham Community site), Biagio Express is planning to open at the Carter Street site where Mimi's Roast Beef had been for more than 30 years until closing a few months ago. Little information is known about the upcoming eatery, though it is possible that it could be more of a takeout version of Biagio Ristorante & Bar, a Moody Street spot across the street that focuses on Italian and American fare. As soon as we find out more information on the place (including when it might be opening), we will post an update here.

The address for this upcoming dining spot in Waltham is: Biagio Express, 3 Carter Street, Waltham, MA, 02453.

[Earlier Article]
Mimi's Roast Beef in Waltham Has Closed

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Wednesday, December 24, 2014

MuLan Taiwanese Cuisine in Cambridge "Gutted" by Overnight Fire

An Asian restaurant on the western edge of Cambridge's Kendall Square was hit by a fire last night, and it appears that the blaze caused extensive damage to the place.

According to reports on WBZ 1030 this morning, MuLan Taiwanese Cuisine on Broadway was "gutted" in what was apparently a two-alarm fire, with a Twitter post from @ndoyle showing that the adjacent Beauty's Pizza was hit by the blaze as well. The photos from @ndoyle as well as a Twitter picture from @dcopewbz indicate that MuLan indeed suffered some major damage, though exact reports on the extent of the damage are not yet in.

MuLan Taiwanese Cuisine first opened in the former Pho Lemon space approximately 10 years ago; they also have a second location on Main Street in Waltham.

The address for MuLan is 228 Broadway, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website can be found at http://www.mulan-ma.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Tuesday, December 23, 2014

Highlights for the Week Ending December 19, 2014

Several more stories and articles focusing on the Boston-area restaurant scene came out over the past week, including a renowned Cambridge restaurant going bankrupt, a brewery west of Boston expanding, and a bar opening under a landmark North End pastry shop. In addition, our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) included an updated review of a spacious Chinese dining spot in Stoughton, a photo of a bacon appetizer from a new-ish Cambridge restaurant and bar, and an updated list of restaurant closings and openings for December (so far).

Below are links to these and other items from the past week:

Boston Restaurant Talk

Mass Ave Tavern in Boston's Back Bay to Close

Sandrine's Bistro in Cambridge Declares Bankruptcy, Will Be Sold to Owner of La Voile

Jack's Abby in Framingham Is Moving, May Open Restaurant

Dosa Factory to Open in Former Steve's Space in Boston's Back Bay

Modern Underground Bar Opens Below Modern Pastry in Boston's North End

Boston's Hidden Restaurants

Updated Review: Cheng Du in Stoughton, MA

Photo: Bacon from McCabe's on Mass in Cambridge, MA

Restaurant Closings and Openings for December, 2014 (So Far)

Updated Review: Vecchia Roma in Newton, MA

Photo: Grilled Beef with Vermicelli from Pho So 1 in Randolph, MA

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Monday, December 22, 2014

Trillium Brewing Gets License Approved; Reopens Today

Earlier this month we reported that a family-run brewery in Boston's Fort Point neighborhood had closed because of a licensing issue. Now we have learned that the issue has been resolved and that the place is reopening immediately.

Based on a Twitter post from the brewery, Trillium Brewing on Congress Street has had their license approved by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with a more recent tweet from them saying that they are opening at 4:30 PM today. As stated earlier, the brewery's license renewal application for 2014 was never processed and they only recently had found this out, which resulted in their having to get it approved in order for them to open their doors again.

The address for Trillium Brewing is 369 Congress Street, Boston, MA, 02210. Its website can be found at http://www.trilliumbrewing.com/

[Earlier Article]
Trillium Brewing in Boston's Fort Point Has Closed; Status Uncertain

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Villa Mexico Is Reopening in Boston

A beloved Mexican restaurant that closed nearly two years ago in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood is going to be reopening in what appears to be the heart of the city.

According to the restaurant, Villa Mexico Cafe will be opening sometime in the spring of 2015, with a map on its Facebook page indicating that the new location could be somewhere in the Financial District. Owner Julie King has been dropping hints via Facebook as to where it will be, with the first person to guess the exact location on Christmas day getting the first burrito free at their new location.

[December 29 update: According to a Facebook post from the restaurant, Villa Mexico will be opening at 121 Water Street in the heart of downtown Boston.]

[May 12, 2015 update: The Boston Herald states that Villa Mexico plans to open in its new home at the end of June.]

[December 23, 2015 update: Villa Mexico has not yet opened, but the Tables section of The Boston Globe states that it plans to open sometime next month.]

[January 8, 2016 update: A message from the restaurant indicates that Villa Mexico has passed all inspections and will be opening on Monday (January 11) at 9:00 AM.]

Once it reopens, the new Villa Mexico will focus on takeout--though it will have some indoor seating--and the menu will mostly be the same (expect to see tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tamales, etc.), with some tweaks to items such as tostadas and flautas. Catering will continue to be offered and jars of their black salsa will be available.

The original Villa Mexico on Cambridge Street in Beacon Hill was featured on our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) as an under-the-radar spot hidden within a gas station, with the review being at the following link:

http://www.hiddenboston.com/VillaMexico.html

The website for Villa Mexico can be found at http://www.villamexicocafe.us/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Friday, December 19, 2014

Mass Ave Tavern in Boston's Back Bay to Close

A dining and drinking spot in the Back Bay of Boston will soon be closing its doors.

Eater Boston is reporting that Mass Ave Tavern is shutting down on January 1, with a representative for the place saying that "Our landlord is planning on a renovation of the building and to that end has declined to renew our lease...We are extremely grateful to our neighbors, surrounding businesses, and all of the good folks who have supported us over the last few years. Join us on New Years Eve for one last Champagne of Beers."

Mass Ave Tavern first opened as a spot called 94 Mass Ave in January of 2011, changing over to its current place that summer. The restaurant and bar focused mainly on comfort food and was known in part for its pancake challenges and foosball table.

The address for this soon-to-close spot in the Back Bay is 94 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Papagayo Is Opening in Saugus

The group behind several Mexican restaurants in the Boston area is going to be opening yet another, with this one being north of the city.

Based on its website, Papagayo is planning to open a new location in Saugus, joining existing ones at Fort Point in Boston, Downtown Crossing, City Square in Charlestown [ed note--now closed], and Assembly Row in Somerville. It is not known when exactly the new spot will open--or where in Saugus it will open--with the website simply saying "coming soon."

[January 6, 2015 update: According to Cappy in Boston, the new Papagayo will be moving into the old Border Cafe space at 819 Broadway (Route 1), which is just north of the former Hilltop Steak House. (Border Cafe is now located at 356 Broadway.)]

[June 9 update: Papagayo opens in Saugus today, and as noted in the article on the Charlestown location closing, the management team from that location is behind this one.]

The Legendary Restaurant Group, which runs the Papagayo dining spots, also operates such local spots as Max and Dylans, Scollay Square, Burger Dive, Sip Wine Bar, and Avery Provisions. Its website can be found at http://legendaryrg.com/ while the website for Papagayo is at http://papagayorestaurants.com/

Thanks to Eater Boston for bringing this to our attention.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Sandrine's Bistro in Cambridge's Harvard Square Declares Bankruptcy, Is Closing

A "renowned" French restaurant in Cambridge has gone bankrupt and is being sold.

The Boston Business Journal is reporting that Sandrine's Bistro in the Harvard Square section of the city has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, with its assets and lease tentatively being bought by Pierre Honegger of La Voile on Newbury Street in the Back Bay. The article indicates that the restaurant has struggled of late--including a projected loss of $200,000 this year--and that it included in its filing the term "cash-flow crisis" to describe its situation.

It is not yet known what plans might be in store for the Holyoke Street space, though the restaurant is open for now and appears that it will remain so during the transition period.

[March 24, 2015 update: Eater Boston mentions that Sandrine's Bistro will close on March 30 and that the owner of La Voile will not taking over the space after all; instead, the group behind The Asgard and The Kinsale (Classic Restaurant Concepts) is opening a new spot there, and they say it will not be an Irish pub.]

[March 25, 2015 update: The Harvard Crimson states that Classic Restaurant Concepts plans to open a high-end dining spot in the Sandrine's space, with the restaurant opening in May ("in time for Harvard's Commencement").]

Sandrine's first opened its doors in the mid-1990s.

The address for Sandrine's Bistro is 8 Holyoke Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138. Its website can be found at http://www.sandrines.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Jack's Abby in Framingham Is Moving, Opening Restaurant within New Space

A brewery west of Boston is moving because it has "maxed out" its space--and its plans call for more than just a place to produce beer.

The MetroWest Daily News is reporting that Jack's Abby in Framingham is leaving its current space on Morton Street in order to move into a much larger space in the Dennison Building on Clinton Street. The article says that the brewery, which is currently housed in two buildings with 12,000 total square feet of space, will be taking over a space that is more than five times larger than where they currently are, and will allow for 5,000 square feet to be used for a restaurant from the brewery.

Based on the capacity offered with the new space, it is possible that Jack's Abby could become the number two beer producer in the state behind Boston's Harpoon Brewery, according to the Daily News.

[January 9, 2015: A new article in the MetroWest Daily News mentions that the Framingham Planning Board has greeted Jack's Abbey's expansion plans "with great enthusiasm" and feels that it would help the local economy, though there are concerns such as traffic and people drinking in the taproom at the new space then getting into their cars. The article says that the board will resume looking into the proposal on January 22. (If all goes well, the move/expansion could be complete by October.)]

[January 23, 2015 update: The Westborough News states that the Framingham Planning Board has approved of plans for Jack's Abbey to move into the new space on Clinton Street.]

[August 4, 2015 update: The MetroWest Daily News mentions that the move for Jack's Abbey's is on schedule, and that its restaurant--which will be a 175-seat beer hall that offers such food items as wood-fired pizza, sausages, wiener schnitzel, and more--will open in September. The article also says that the brewery may be up and running on a limited basis in October, with November being when they are fully functioning if all goes as planned,]

[September 30, 2015 update: According to a Facebook post from the place, Jack's Abbey has now shut down its old facility on Morton Street and moved into its new home on Clinton Street. And while the grand opening of the restaurant is October 8 (including a ribbon cutting), a note within the thread indicates that the kitchen is open starting today.]

Jack's Abbey first opened in the summer of 2011.

The address for the new space for Jack's Abbey is 100 Clinton Street, Framingham, MA, 01702. Its website can be found at http://jacksabbybrewing.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Dosa Factory Is Opening in the Former Steve's Space in Boston's Back Bay

An Indian dining spot in Cambridge is planning to open on one of Boston's best-known streets--and it will be moving into the space that once housed an old-fashioned Greek eatery.

Eater Boston is reporting that Dosa Factory in Central Square is opening within the former Steve's Greek Cuisine space on Newbury Street in the Back Bay. (Steve's closed this past March after being in business since the 1980s.) Once it opens, expect to see an array of dosas and, if the menu is similar to the Cambridge one, a wide variety of other Indian fare.

[January 12, 2015 update: A new article from Eater Boston indicates that Dosa Factory is now open on Newbury Street.]

Dosa Factory is a restaurant that has been featured by our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) in part for its hidden location in back of a market. The review for the dining spot can be found here:

http://www.hiddenboston.com/DosaFactory.html

On a side note, it is not known for sure if a Waltham location of Dosa Factory is still in the works (that one has been five years in the making now), though EB hints that it may just be.

The address for this new Indian restaurant in the Back Bay is: Dosa Factory, 316 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02115. The website for the place can be found at http://www.dosa-factory.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Max and Dylans Menu Now Offered at Papagayo in Charlestown

The menu from a now-closed Charlestown restaurant is back, with the dining spot that replaced it--under the same ownership--offering it as an additional option to diners.

A press release says that Papagayo now has a Max and Dylans menu in place, offering American classics in addition to the Mexican items from Papagayo's menu. A few options available off the new menu at the City Square eatery include salads, sandwiches, burgers, and macaroni and cheese, along with several entrees.

Papagayo replaced Max and Dylans in the spring of 2013 and is now one of four locations in the Boston area, with others being found at Fort Point in Boston, Downtown Crossing, and Assembly Row in Somerville. (One location of Max and Dylans remains open in Bedford.)

The address for Papagayo in Charlestown is 1 Chelsea Street, Charlestown, MA, 02129. Its website can be found at http://papagayorestaurants.com/ while the website for Max and Dylans can be found at http://maxanddylans.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Christina's Spice and Specialty Foods in Cambridge's Inman Square Has Moved

Last year we reported that the people behind an ice cream shop and specialty food/spice store in Cambridge's Inman Square were looking to open a baking annex. Now we have learned that they have actually moved their food/spice store into that space.

According to posters within the Chowhound site, Christina's Spice & Specialty Foods has moved from 1261 Cambridge Street to 1297 Cambridge Street, with their ice cream shop remaining at 1255 Cambridge Street. It is not known at this point in time if they will eventually include the proposed baking annex within the new space or whether those plans have fallen through (we will post an update as soon as we find out).

The website for Christina's Homemade Ice Cream is at http://christinasicecream.com/ while the Facebook page for Christina's Spice & Specialty Foods can be found at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christinas-Spice-Specialty-Foods/300964572385

[Earlier Article]
Christina's Baking Annex May Be Coming to Cambridge's Inman Square

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Monday, December 15, 2014

Highlights for the Week Ending December 12, 2014

A few more stories and articles centering on the Boston-area restaurant scene came out over the past week, including a distillery planning to open by the water in Dorchester, a new location of a Medford restaurant coming to Beacon Hill, and a chocolate shop in the South End closing--and apparently moving. In addition, our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) included a new review of a tiny Japanese eatery in Cambridge, a "best restaurants of 2014" list, and a photo of meat loaf from a revamped dining spot.

Below are links to these and other items from the past week:

Boston Restaurant Talk

Boston Harbor Distillery Plans to Open in Dorchester

Blue Fuji Plans to Open in Boston's Beacon Hill

Trillium Brewing in Boston's Fort Point Has Closed; Status Uncertain

6th Gear Plans to Open in South Boston

Chocolee Chocolates Retail Shop in Boston's South End Has Closed; Will Move to New Location

Boston's Hidden Restaurants

New Review: Tampopo in Cambridge, MA

Photo: Mocha from Voltage Coffee and Art in Cambridge, MA

Best Boston-Area Restaurants of 2014

Photo: Meat Loaf from The Restaurant in Woburn, MA

Photo: Lobster Pot Pie from the Kennebunk Inn in Kennebunk, ME

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Update: Faneuil Hall Manager Says The Salty Dog Is Not Being Evicted

[Ed note: This article was updated on December 16 to reflect new information given.]

It looks like a report that a Faneuil Hall restaurant and bar could be kicked out of its home after 40 years in business may not be true after all.

An article (that has since been edited) from a few days ago on the NorthEndWaterfront.com site (via a Twitter post from @ConciergeBoston) had mentioned that The Salty Dog Seafood Grille & Bar was reportedly being evicted as part of changes coming to Faneuil Hall. Now, according to a post from Universal Hub and another article from BostInno, it appears that this might not be the case, as Ashkenazy Acquisition Corp. says they have not evicted the dining and drinking spot and have no plans to do so. BostInno goes on to mention that they were not able to get in touch with reps for The Salty Dog as of Monday evening. (As soon as anyone hears from the restaurant, we will post another update here.)

The Salty Dog, which first opened in the mid-1970s, has been a popular spot with tourists over the years, offering such items as stuffed quahogs, crab cakes, clam rolls, fried shrimp, baked scrod, and lobster.

The address for this seafood restaurant and bar at Faneuil Hall is: The Salty Dog Seafood Grille & Bar, 206 South Market Street, Boston, MA, 02109.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Modern Underground Bar Opens Below Modern Pastry in Boston's North End

A brand new bar has opened in Boston, and it just happens to be located under a landmark pastry shop.

According to a Twitter post from @ConciergeBoston, Modern Underground has opened below Modern Pastry in the North End, with the drinking spot being underneath the new space that the shop expanded into this this past spring. The sign out front indicates that the new bar features appetizers, burgers, and beer, and that games can be seen on TV as well. While the sign seems to call the place "Modern Pastry Underground," an earlier article from Dirty Water News says that its exact name is apparently "The Modern Underground."

[December 15 update: Eater Boston mentions that the new Modern Underground bar has limited hours, with the place being open from 4:00 PM to midnight Thursday through Sunday. (EB also says that wine and mixed drinks are available as well, along with other food items such as steak tips, wings, and nachos.)]

Modern Pastry takes up two storefronts on Hanover Street, with the original store being a pastry shop and the newer store being more of a bakery-cafe with seating. Another location can also be found in Medford.

The address for Modern Underground is 263 Hanover Street, Boston, MA, 02113. The website for Modern Pastry can be found at http://www.modernpastry.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Note: Please join the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook Group Page to get more info on dining spots and also chat with others about Boston-area restaurants.]



Friday, December 12, 2014

Studio Manta Plans to Open in Cambridge's Central Square

It looks like a new restaurant, bar, and club may be on its way to Cambridge.

Eater Boston is reporting (via mypublicnotices.com) that Studio Manta is planning to open in Central Square, with the spot also hoping to change its proposed location from Brookline Street to Mass. Ave. It appears that the new place would have a seating capacity of 82, with a dining area and a bar upstairs and a kitchen downstairs, and it is seeking a license that would allow for live music, DJs, and dancing. EB mentions that there may be a connection between Studio Manta and the restaurant Shalimar of India, which is also located on Mass. Ave.

At this point in time, there is no word on exactly when Studio Manta might be opening.

[January 26, 2015 update: According to a new License Commission Decision Making Hearing page within the City of Cambridge website, a hearing is scheduled to take place this Thursday (January 29) on Studio Manta's plans to open on Mass. Ave.]

The address for this proposed restaurant, bar, and club in Central Square is: Studio Manta, 577 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Note: Please join the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook Group Page to get more info on dining spots and also chat with others about Boston-area restaurants.]



InBoston to Open in Tom Can Cook Space in Waltham

A pair of Boston restaurants that feature Korean food with Mexican influences will soon have a third location, with this one being west of the city.

According to a Twitter post from @brandnewwatch, InBoston is moving into the space on Moody Street in Waltham where the Thai eatery Tom Can Cook has been. Once it opens, the new spot will join existing locations on Bedford Street in Downtown Crossing--which is their original location--and another on Mass. Ave. near Symphony Hall. Based on the menus at those locations, expect to see such items as Korean fried chicken (wings, drums, and strips), rice bowls with spicy chicken or bulgogi, and possibly K-tacos (spicy chicken or bulgogi in corn tortillas).

It is not yet known when the new location of InBoston might open, (we will post updates here as we get them).

The address for this new restaurant in Waltham is: InBoston, 374 Moody Street, Waltham, MA 02453.

[February 17, 2015 update: A poster on the Chowhound site confirms what we have heard from a few other sources--that InBoston and Tom Can Cook have formed some sort of collaboration, with both being located within the Waltham space (and both are now open).]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Thursday, December 11, 2014

Boston Harbor Distillery Is Opening in Dorchester

It looks like a brand new distillery is coming to a Boston neighborhood, and it will be located within an historic structure by the water.

Eater Boston reports that Boston Harbor Distillery is planning to open within the old Putnam Nail Factory/Lawley Shipyard complex that is located on the Port Norfolk peninsula in Dorchester (just east of Tenean Beach and the Southeast Expressway by the Neponset River). The article mentions that a couple of big names are behind the proposed distillery, including Rhonda Kallman, who co-founded The Boston Beer Company (which is known for its Samuel Adams brand of beer), and Corey Bunnewith, who has worked at such places as Coppa and Drink. While it looks like Boston Harbor Distillery will focus on whiskey, they may also be making rum as well, according to EB.

It is not yet known when the distillery might open.

[May 20, 2015 update: According to a Facebook post from Corey Bunnewith, Boston Harbor Distillery is one step closer to opening, as it now has an occupancy permit.]

[June 11, 2015 update: According to social media posts from the place, Boston Harbor Distillery opens to the public today at 4:00 PM.]

It appears that the address for Boston Harbor Distillery will be 12 Ericsson Street, Dorchester, MA, 02122. Its website can be found at http://bostonharbordistillery.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Bone Up Brewing Company Plans to Open in Everett

It looks like yet another brewery could be opening just north of Boston.

Eater Boston is reporting that Bone Up Brewing Company is planning to open in Everett, with the brewery focusing on "classic American pre-prohibition styles using Belgian techniques" including an IPA, an imperial stout, and a white fruit beer (their website also shows a porter, black lager, cream ale, and more). The article says that if all goes well, the Tileston Street brewery could open sometime in the summer of 2015.

[July 2 update: Bone Up Brewing Company appears to be one step closer to opening, as Eater Boston mentions that it now has a Massachusetts Brewers Permit.]

A few other breweries have opened north of Boston over the past few years, including Mystic Brewery in Chelsea and Night Shift Brewing and Idle Hands Craft Ales, both of which are in Everett. [Ed Note: Idle Hands is now in the process of finding a new home, as it has been displaced by construction for the upcoming casino.]

The website for Bone Up Brewing Company can be found at http://www.boneup.beer/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Wednesday, December 10, 2014

East Boston Kitchen Is Closing for the Winter to "Reassess"

A restaurant in the Jeffries Point neighborhood of East Boston has closed for the winter, and it is not known what the future holds for the place.

Eater Boston is reporting that East Boston Kitchen on Sumner Street has shuttered, with a note out front saying "We are closing for the winter to reassess....We thank you for all your support. We couldn't have done what we did without you." East Boston Kitchen opened in June of 2013, offering diners such options as soups, salads, sandwiches, prepared items, and baked goods, with a menu that changed on a weekly basis.

The address for East Boston Kitchen is 331 Sumner Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. Its website can be found at http://www.eastbostonkitchen.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Blue Fuji Plans to Open in Boston's Beacon Hill

The person behind an Asian restaurant in Medford is looking to open a new location in one of the busiest sections of Boston.

According to a Licensing Board page from the City of Boston website, Jacky An Xie of Blue Fuji in Medford Square is planning on opening a restaurant with the same name in the Beacon Hill section of Boston, with the Cambridge Street dining spot possibly having seating for 16 and hours from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily. It is not yet known whether this is a move from Salem Street in Medford or a second location; as soon as we find out, we will post an update here.

Blue Fuji first opened in Medford in the spring of 2011, offering diners a mix of Chinese and Japanese fare.

The address for this proposed Asian eatery in Beacon Hill is: Blue Fuji, 106 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA, 02114. The website for Blue Fuji can be found at http://www.bluefuji.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]



Trillium Brewing in Boston's Fort Point Has Closed; Status Uncertain

A family-run brewery in one of Boston's hottest neighborhoods for dining and drinking has closed its doors--and no one seems to know what is going to happen to the place.

An article from BostInno confirms what several other sources have said of late, that Trillium Brewing in the Fort Point neighborhood of the city is shuttered, and while there has been talk that this is a temporary closing, the post says that "nobody seems certain when they might reopen – including the company itself." The Congress Street brewery had said late last month (via social media) that it had to close and since then, little other information has come out about its status.

The Beer Advocate site indicates (via the Commonwealth of Massachusetts site) that a hearing was scheduled yesterday "to determine whether [Trillium's] application under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 138 should be approved or disapproved." As soon as we find out more about the outcome of the hearing--and the status of Trillium--we will post an update here.

[December 10 update: According to a new post on Beer Advocate from the owners of Trillium Brewing, their license renewal application for 2014 was never processed and they only recently found this out, which is why yesterday's hearing on the approval/disapproval of the license took place (they haven't gotten a decision yet). Thanks to @J_Deer for bringing this to our attention.)]

Trillium first opened its doors in the spring of 2013.

The address for Trillium Brewing is 369 Congress Street, Boston, MA, 02210. Its website can be found at http://www.trilliumbrewing.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Monday, December 08, 2014

Highlights for the Week Ending December 5, 2014

Several more stories and articles focusing on the Boston-area restaurant scene came out over the past week, including a pair of Mexican restaurants planning to further expand, a dessert spot in Harvard Square closing, and a coal-fired pizza spot coming to the region. In addition, our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) included an updated review of a restaurant and bar in Woburn, a new slideshow on more "best" food items of 2014, and a photo of chili from a re-reviewed BBQ joint.

Below are links to these and other items from the past week:

Boston Restaurant Talk

Barrington Coffee Roasting Company to Open Cafe in Boston's Back Bay

Amelia's Taqueria Plans to Further Expand Through the Boston Area

The Crossing in Boston's Mission Hill Has Apparently Purchased Stadium Sports Bar and Grill in Quincy

Finale in Cambridge's Harvard Square Has Closed

Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza to Open in Westwood

Boston's Hidden Restaurants

Updated Review: The Restaurant Bar and Grille in Woburn, MA

Photo: Pastries from Gennaro's in Quincy, MA

Slideshow: Twelve More of the Best Food Dishes of 2014

Updates to Dive Bar Photo Gallery

Photo: Chili from Tennessee's in Braintree, MA

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Sixth Gear Is Opening in South Boston

It looks like a new restaurant is coming to South Boston, moving into the space where a few other dining spots have been.

Eater Boston is reporting (via a licensing board page within the city of Boston site) that Sixth Gear is planning to open on L Street, taking over the spot that had been home to Sauce, and before that, Wolfie's Kitchen And Bar and Kelly's Landing. Based on the hearing page, it appears that the new place will have one room for dining along with a bar with seating for 10, with the spot hoping to have a closing time of 1:00 AM. Little other information on Sixth Gear is available at this point in time; as soon as we find out more, we will post an update here.

The address for this upcoming restaurant and bar in Southie is: Sixth Gear, 81 L Street, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its website will be at http://sixthgearboston.com/

[October 9, 2015 update: It appears that Sixth Gear is getting closer to opening, as a Twitter post shows that the place is now hiring. And while there is still very little information on the restaurant, its website has the slogan "Purveyors of Unique and Modern American Sustenance."]

[January 7, 2016 update: A new article from Eater Boston states that Sixth Gear is planning to open on January 22, and that it will offer a mix of small plates and large entrees as well as beer, wine, and cocktails, with the focus being on New American fare.]

[January 21, 2016 update: A Twitter post from @chipsy231 reiterates that Sixth Gear will open to the public Friday evening.]

[Earlier Article]
Sauce Trattoria in South Boston Has Closed

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]