Tuesday, March 31, 2015

Highlights for the Week Ending March 27, 2015

Several more stories and articles focusing on the Boston-area restaurant scene came out over the past week, including a unique kind of community brewery and pub expanding to Boston, a decades-old downtown tavern being demolished, and a neighborhood spot in Brighton closing after nearly 70 years. In addition, our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) included a new review of a sushi and ramen place within a supermarket, a photo of mac and cheese from a Cape Cod restaurant, and an updated list of outdoor dining and drinking spots along the coast.

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

Boston Restaurant Talk

Hopsters Brew and Boards Is Apparently Expanding to Boston

Sweetwater Tavern in Downtown Boston Has Closed

The Melting Pot in Boston Has Closed

Mandy and Joe's Restaurant in Brighton Is Closing

Uno Fresco Closes All Three Locations

Boston's Hidden Restaurants

New Review: Kakkoii Sushi and Ramen in Malden, MA

New Photo: Macaroni and Cheese from Grumpy's Restaurant in Dennis, MA

Updated List of Outdoor Dining and Drinking Spots Along the Massachusetts Coast

Recipe: Pork and Leek Dumplings

New Photo: Buffalo Chicken Tenders from Pearl Street Station Restaurant in Malden, MA

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Cafe Kiraz in Cambridge Is Closed

A cafe in Cambridge that focuses mainly on sandwiches is closed--and it is not known whether it will be reopening at this point in time.

According to one of our readers, Cafe Kiraz on Hampshire Street (between Inman Square and Kendall Square) has been shuttered for approximately two weeks now, with no note out front explaining why. A check on its website indicates that it is still up, but multiple phones calls have gone unanswered. [Ed note: Another site comes up on an Internet search for Cafe Kiraz, but it is not their site.]

Cafe Kiraz, which opened approximately ten years ago, has been known for its wide variety of hot and cold sandwiches and roll-ups; the eatery has also offered soups, salads, pizza, calzones, pasta dishes, and coffee.

The address for this now-closed dining spot in Cambridge is: Cafe Kiraz, 119 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website can be found at http://www.kirazcafe.net/

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]



Olecito in Brookline Village Has Closed

It looks like a local group of Mexican eateries has gotten just a bit smaller.

According to a reader, Olecito in Brookline is shuttered, with a check on the restaurant's website confirming that the Cypress Street spot is indeed closed. Based on the site, it appears that the Cambridge location of Olecito on Springfield Street in Inman Square remains in operation, as does its other restaurant--Ole, which is also on Springfield Street.

Olecito, which first opened in Brookline in May of 2010, was a casual, inexpensive spot that featured tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and tortas.

The address for this now-closed Mexican dining spot in Brookline was: Olecito, 6 Cypress Street, Brookline, MA, 02445. The website for Olecito (and Ole) in Cambridge can be found at http://www.olerestaurantgroup.com/

[April 1 update: Eater Boston states (via the Ole Restaurant Group's website) that the closing of Olecito in Brookline is part of a plan that includes the refreshing of the Olecito brand and an ultimate expansion of the eatery with multiple locations coming to the area next year (EB notes that a new Olecito has already opened in New Bedford).]

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]



The Crossing in Boston's Mission Hill Has Closed

A neighborhood bar in Boston's Mission Hill that was popular with students, locals, and medical/office workers alike has closed its doors.

According to one of our readers, The Crossing on Tremont Street is no longer in business, with a check on the bar's Facebook page confirming that it indeed shut down over the weekend. The Facebook note from the dining and drinking spot says "As we end another Era. We would like to take this opportunity of thanking each and everyone of you who crossed over the door into The Crossing" and "A huge thank you to all the staff." The post also indicates what the reader mentioned, that the space has apparently been sold to new owners, though it is not yet known what restaurant and/or bar might be moving in. (As soon as we find out more, we will post an update here.) The owners of The Crossing also run Stadium Sports Bar and Grill on Hancock Street in Quincy, which remains in operation.

The Crossing first opened in 2009, taking over the space where Curtin's Roadside Tavern had been.

The address for this now-closed bar in Mission Hill was: The Crossing, 1592 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02120.

[Earlier Article]
The Crossing in Boston's Mission Hill Has Purchased Stadium Sports Bar and Grill in Quincy

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.]



Monday, March 30, 2015

Frost Ice Bar in Boston Rebranding, Becoming Frost Ice Loft

The first "ice bar" in New England is no longer just an ice bar, as it is now in the midst of a rebranding.

Based on a Twitter conversation between @CappyinBoston and the place, Frost Ice Bar at Boston's Faneuil Hall is now called Frost Ice Loft, with the change in name coming about because it is "Time to lose the stigma of just being a 'bar' & building a new warm event space, so loft is more fitting!" Changes include the fact that there is now no time limit for customers (previously, patrons could stay in the bar for no longer than 45 minutes) and the cover charge is now $12 (including parka and gloves), as opposed to $19 when it first opened. According to its website, "Family Friendly Hours" are 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM while it is 21+ from 5:00 PM to closing time, and no reservations are needed.

Frost, which first opened in August of 2013, is constructed and furnished entirely of ice.

[July 10 update: According to a press release, Frost Ice Loft has officially debuted, with a new drink menu and extensive upgrades to the bar area taking place. In addition, it also has a new (room temperature) space called The Galley, which will focus on private events--including corporate, arts-based, children's, and non-profit events.]

The address for Frost Ice Loft is 200 State Street (Faneuil Hall Marketplace), Boston, MA, 02109. Its website can be found at http://frosticebar.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.]



Kennedy's on the Square in Harvard Square Has Closed

[Ed note: This article was updated on March 31 to reflect confirmation of the restaurant's closure.]

It looks like a restaurant and bar in the Harvard Square section of Cambridge has closed after being in business for only a half year.

Eater Boston is reporting that a former worker at the place says Kennedy's on the Square on Dunster Street is no longer in operation, with phone calls placed to the spot going unanswered today. OpenTable is still taking reservations for Kennedy's, however, and nothing has been mentioned on its website or social media pages (a message was sent to them earlier, with no reply as of yet). Kennedy's on the Square first opened last September, moving into the space where First Printer had been, and before that, Herrell’s Ice Cream; the restaurant and bar is connected with Kennedy's Public House in Norwood, and there is also an apparent connection to Tommy Doyle's in Newton.

[March 31 update: According to several sources (including a poster on Twitter), Kennedy's on the Square has definitely closed, though it is still not known why or what might happen to the space.]

The address for this now-closed spot in Harvard Square was: Kennedy's on the Square, 15 Dunster Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138.

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]



The Squires in Hanover Closed for the Time Being Due to Water Damage from Fire

A South Shore restaurant and bar is closed for at least awhile after being damaged in a fire that occurred above its space.

The Hanover Mariner and the Patriot Ledger are reporting that The Squires in Hanover has been forced to shut down for an unspecified period of time because of an apartment fire above the Washington Street pub that took place on Sunday morning. The article says that the apartment is "uninhabitable" because of the blaze and that the dining and drinking spot received "significant" water damage. No one was injured in the fire.

The Squires is a spot that our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) has featured as an under-the-radar restaurant and bar known in part for its burgers, steak tips, and bar pizza. The review can be found at the link below:

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

The address for The Squires is 1202 Washington Street (Route 53), Hanover, MA, 02339.

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.]



Saturday, March 28, 2015

Confirmed: Jerry Remy's in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood Is Reopening April 13

Earlier this month, we mentioned that a popular restaurant and bar near Fenway Park had abruptly closed. Now we have learned that the place is looking to reopen under new ownership and management, with at least some changes being made to the spot.

The Boston Herald is reporting that the Boylston Street location of Jerry Remy's Sports Bar & Grill is planning on opening its doors once again on April 13, which happens to be the day of the home opener for the Boston Red Sox. The article says that The Cronin Group, which runs the Seaport District location of Jerry Remy's, is purchasing the Fenway location from former Red Sox player--and current broadcaster--Jerry Remy along with his partners (the restaurant group had already been an investor in the place). According to the article, The Cronin Group will run the Fenway location under a licensing agreement, which is the same setup as that of the Seaport District location.

Before Jerry Remy's can reopen, a new lease will need to be signed with a "Red Sox affiliate" that owns the building (possibly next week), and the liquor license will need to be transferred to The Cronin Group. In addition, a new menu is being created and 200 workers need to be hired (the Herald says former employees are being encouraged to apply), and what looks like a minor makeover to the space may be taking place as well.

The Cronin Group is behind such restaurants and bars as the Boston Beer Garden, Temazcal, Tony C's, and several other places.

The address for the soon-to-reopen Jerry Remy's in the Fenway is 1265 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. The website can be found at: http://www.jerryremys.com/

[April 6 update: According to a Licensing Board page within the City of Boston website, a request for the license transfer of Jerry Remy's in the Fenway is being looked at this Wednesday (April 8). If approved, it is not known whether the place is still planning to reopen on April 13, which is the day of the Red Sox home opener; as soon as we find out more, we will post another update here.]

[April 12 update: According to its Facebook page, Jerry Remy's reopens in the Fenway tomorrow (Monday, April 13) at 11:00 AM.]

[Earlier Article]
Jerry Remy's Sports Bar and Grill in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood 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]



Friday, March 27, 2015

Hopsters Brew and Boards Is Expanding to Boston

It looks like a unique kind of "community" brewery and pub in Newton that allows folks to make their own beer is expanding to Boston.

A Facebook post from Hopsters Brew and Boards in Newton Corner says that "Big things are coming to downtown Boston" with the hashtags #Boston #craftbeer and #drinklocal following the note. No clues have been given as to where exactly they might be expanding to--and what kind of place it will be--though there had been rumors of the business opening a second location closer to downtown Boston (possibly in the Seaport District) that appeared to have fallen through either late last year or early this year.

[May 8 update: Universal Hub is reporting that the proposed location of Hopsters in downtown Boston will be within the upcoming Boston Public Market at Haymarket, though it appears it will be in the form of a small beer store (not a brewery, brewpub, or restaurant).]

Hopsters first opened its doors at 292 Centre Street in September of 2013. Its website can be found at http://www.hopstersbrew.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]



Avery Provision Co. in Boston Is Becoming The Tasting Room at Sip

A gourmet food shop in downtown Boston is being reconcepted into a tasting room that is under the same ownership.

Eater Boston is reporting that Avery Provision Co. on Washington Street is changing over to The Tasting Room at Sip, a spot that has seating for 48 (including both communal tables and traditional seating) and will include classes, pop-up events, and various functions such as office events. The space debuts on April 5 with an Easter pop-up brunch from Bread & Salt Hospitality.

Both Avery Provision Co. and Sip (a wine bar) opened in July of 2012, moving into the former Bina Osteria and Bina Alimentari spaces.

The address for The Tasting Room at Sip is 581 Washington Street, Boston, MA, 02111. More info on the new concept can be found at http://sipwinebarandkitchen.com/thetastingroom/

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.]



Beard Papa's Is Opening in Boston's Chinatown

A chain of bakeries based in Japan that claims to have the "world's best cream puffs" is coming to Boston...again.

Eater Boston is reporting that Beard Papa's is planning to open in the city's Chinatown neighborhood, with the Harrison Avenue bakery being the sole location in the city, though not the first to come to Boston (the first, which had been located in Faneuil Hall, shut its doors more than five years ago). Once it opens, expect to see a variety of cream puffs along with other treats.

If all goes as planned, it looks like the new location of Beard Papa's will open sometime in April.

[April 10 update: An earlier Facebook post from the bakery mentions that Beard Papa's could be opening in Boston on April 15, though no updates on an exact opening date have come of late.]

[May 4 update: A new article from Eater Boston indicates that Beard Papa's soft-opens today, with its grand opening being on Friday (May 8).]

The address for this new bakery in Chinatown is: Beard Papa's, 31 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA, 02111. Its website can be found at http://www.beardpapasboston.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]



Cielo Mexican Restaurant Is Opening in Braintree

It looks like a Mexican restaurant is coming to the southern suburbs of Boston, and it will be opening along a small river.

According to its Facebook and Twitter pages, Cielo Mexican Restaurant is planning to open in Braintree, moving into the space on Washington Street where Viola Restaurant and Wine Bar had been until closing in the fall of 2012. The property is situated on the Monatiquot River--and Viola did have a small patio that overlooked the river--but it is not yet known whether Cielo will have a riverside patio as well.

As soon as we hear of an opening date for Cielo (and what will be on its menu), we will post an update here.

[June 15 update: According to an article in the Braintree Forum, Cielo has been granted a liquor license and a common victualler license and should be opening in approximately a month. The post also says that the new restaurant--which will serve "family-style" Mexican food--will have seating for 58 along with 16 additional seats on an outdoor patio.]

[October 20 update: Eater Boston states that Cielo is now open, with the menu including such items as huevos rancheros, burritos, flautas, tacos, enchiladas, and chilaquiles.]

The address for this Mexican dining spot in Braintree is: Cielo, 1209 Washington Street, Braintree, MA, 02184. Its website will be at http://www.cielomx.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]



Thursday, March 26, 2015

Sam Maverick's May Open in Dorchester

It looks like a new restaurant may be coming to Dorchester, and one of the people behind it also runs a few other spots in Boston.

According to an article in the Dorchester Reporter, Julian Bolger of Tavern in the Square (and the upcoming Bee's Knees) in Allston, Cityside in Brighton, and The Playwright in South Boston is involved in the proposed opening of Sam Maverick's in the Adams Village/Cedar Section of Dorchester. The post says that the dining spot would look at open in the former Hollywood Video space on Gallivan Boulevard and it would be a family-friendly restaurant serving lunch and dinner along with a weekend brunch.

The Cedar Grove Civic Association will hold an April 14 meeting to look into the proposed Sam Maverick's--and the article also says that the Little Caesars pizza chain is looking at the same space as well.

[April 16 update: A new article in the Dorchester Reporter mentions that the Cedar Grove Civic Association voted against Little Caesars coming to the Gallivan Boulevard space, but also gave a mixed reaction to the proposed Sam Maverick's going there. A vote will be taken next month that could decide whether the restaurant will be able to open at the old Hollywood Video site.]

[June 12 update: The proposed Sam Maverick's restaurant is one step closer to reality, as the Dorchester Reporter states that Cedar Grove Civic Association has given its vote of approval for the place--though some abutters object to the plans. (The next step will be for the dining spot to get permits/approval from the city.)]

The address for Sam Maverick's would be 489 Gallivan Boulevard, Dorchester, MA, 02124.

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]



Beat Da Wrap in Waltham Closes After Paying Overdue Taxes; Health Department to Void License

A sandwich shop in Waltham that was in trouble with the city for taxes owed has closed.

According to an article in the Waltham News Tribune, Beat Da Wrap on Waverly Oaks Road is no longer in operation, having shut down on March 19 after paying approximately $3,800 in overdue personal property taxes. An earlier City of Waltham meeting minutes page stated that the Waltham Board of Health voted to close the eatery for operating without a license unless the taxes were paid by March 3, though the News Tribune article says that the Board of Health is going to void the license of the now-closed spot. (It may be that the minutes page was implying that the board would void the license if back taxes weren't paid, but it is not known for sure.)

Beat Da Wrap first opened in January of 2011.

The address for this now-closed sandwich shop was: Beat Da Wrap, 411 Waverley Oaks Road, Waltham, MA, 02452.

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, March 25, 2015

Sweetwater Tavern in Downtown Boston Has Closed

A restaurant and bar that is hidden away in the heart of downtown Boston has closed after several decades in business, as its building is being demolished by a nearby college.

Based on a Twitter post from today, Sweetwater Tavern on Boylston Place (also known as the Alley) is in the midst of being "torn down," while a check on the bar's website shows a note that says "Sweetwater will soon be closing its doors. It's been a great 36 year run but on April 1st Emerson will be swinging the wrecking ball and tearing down the Alley." Another Twitter post--this one from the Twitter page for the bar's trivia nights--indicates that yesterday was apparently its final day in business.

Sweetwater Tavern, which first opened in 1978, has been known as a place to go for pub grub, drinks, karaoke, trivia nights, and live music, along with being a stop before and after the nearby clubs.

The address for the now-closed Sweetwater Tavern was 3 Boylston Place, Boston, MA, 02116.

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]



Ultimate Pizza in Weymouth Landing Hit by Fire

A South Shore pizza place sustained serious damage in a fire early Tuesday morning, and it is not known if the shop will reopen.

The Braintree Forum is reporting that Ultimate Pizza in Weymouth Landing was hit by a blaze that burned for several hours in an area that was out of reach for firefighters, who had to tear through the floor in order to try to get to it. The article says that southbound traffic on Commercial Street had to be re-routed for awhile while firefighters were attempting to get the blaze under control, with the road being opened back up by mid-morning.

Harry Sarras, whose family has run Ultimate Pizza for 18 years, is not sure if the shop will ever open again, according to the Forum.

The address for Ultimate Pizza is 6 Commercial Street, Braintree (Weymouth Landing), MA 02184.

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.]



Tuesday, March 24, 2015

Highlights for the Week Ending March 20, 2015

A few more stories and articles centering on the Boston-area restaurant scene came out over the past week, including a nightclub near Fenway Park closing, a local group of watering holes opening a Mexican restaurant at South Station, and plans taking shape for the space where an iconic dining spot had been. In addition, our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) included an updated review of a restaurant on the water, a photo of soup from an Irish-owned spot on the South Shore, and an updated list of ice cream stands in the Greater Boston area.

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

Boston Restaurant Talk

Arc in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood Has Closed

Prima e Dopo in East Boston to Close

Tavern in the Square to Open Tavitas (Mexican Restaurant) at South Station in Boston

Sal's Pizza May Be Reopening in New Location in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

Restaurant Featuring Contemporary Asian Cuisine to Take Over Hamersley's Bistro Space in Boston's South End

Boston's Hidden Restaurants

Updated Review: Inn at Bay Pointe in Quincy, MA

New Photo: Potato Leek Soup from the Mad Hatter Cafe in Weymouth, MA

Restaurant Closings and Openings for March, 2015 (So Far)

List of Ice Cream Stands in the Greater Boston Area

New Photo: Corned Beef from Moody's Delicatessen and Provisions in Waltham, MA

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


The Melting Pot in Boston Has Closed

The Boston location of a chain of fondue restaurants has closed its doors.

According to a post from the Boston Hospitality and Tourism Industry Blog, The Melting Pot in Park Square is no longer in business, with crews in the process of clearing out the space today. A check on the chain's website shows a note saying "We regret to announce that The Melting Pot of Boston has closed for business indefinitely as of March 23. While an excellent property, based on its business model, The Melting Pot believes its concept is better suited to an alternative location. Therefore, it has elected to terminate the lease for the Arlington Street site." The note mentions that locations in Bedford and Framingham remain open for business and that it hopes to open at a new location in Boston at some point.

The Melting Pot first opened at Park Plaza in 2008.

The address for this now-closed fondue restaurant in Boston was: The Melting Pot, 76 Arlington Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for the chain can be found at http://www.meltingpot.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]



Tuck's Candy Factory Opens at MarketStreet Lynnfield

A pair of candy shops on Cape Ann that first started out nearly 90 years ago now has a third location, with this one being closer to Boston.

According to a press release, Tuck's Candy Factory is now open at MarketStreet Lynnfield, an open-air retail center just north of Route 128 (off Walnut Street) that is currently going through a "Phase 2" of development. The new shop joins two others in Rockport, including Tuck's Candy & Gifts on Main Street along with another Tuck's Candy Factory at Dock Square. Tuck's, which was founded in 1929, features a variety of sweet treats, such as fudge, chocolate-covered pretzels, salt water taffy, peanut butter cups, chocolate bark, tipped mints, fruit slices, and more.

The websites for Tuck's are at http://www.tuckscandy.com/ and http://www.tuckscandyfactory.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.]



Monday, March 23, 2015

Mandy and Joe's Restaurant in Brighton Is Closing

A comfort food spot with classic diner fare is getting ready to close its doors after being in business for nearly 70 years.

According to a press release sent to us by Brighton Main Streets, Mandy and Joe's Restaurant in Brighton Center is shutting down for good on Sunday, March 29, with a note from Brighton Main Streets indicating that the owners are planning to retire. Mandy and Joe's first opened on Washington Street in 1948 by brothers Armando and Joseph Marino, with Joseph's son Richard Marino and his wife Ingrid taking over the eatery in the early 2000s. The dining spot offered such items as knockwurst sandwiches, cheeseburgers, chicken pot pie, liver and bacon, fish cakes and beans, and apple pie.

The address for this soon-to-close restaurant in Brighton Center is: Mandy and Joe's, 328 Washington Street, Brighton, MA, 02135.

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]



Uno Fresco Closes All Three Locations

It appears that a new concept from a Boston-based chain of pizza restaurants is no longer in operation.

Eater Boston is reporting that Uno Fresco has closed all three locations in Stoneham, Newton, and Deer Park, NY, with the closure apparently being "abrupt." A check on their website confirms this, with a note simply saying that they have indeed closed the three shops and refer customers to the Uno Pizzeria and Grill website.

Uno Fresco was a fast-casual concept of Uno Pizzeria and Grill that opened its first location in Stoneham last June, with the Newton location opening in November. The restaurants focused on lunch and lighter dinners, including salads, panini, and pizza.

The Stoneham location of Uno Fresco was at 101 Main Street while the Newton location was at 300 Needham Street.

The website for Uno Pizzeria and Grill can be found at http://www.unos.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.]



Update: GrandTen Distilling in South Boston to Open GrandTen Bar

[Ed note: This article was updated on July 5, 2016 to reflect new information given, including a new name for the place.]

It looks like a distillery in South Boston is opening a bar within its space.

Eater Boston is reporting that GrandTen Distilling on Dorchester Avenue is looking to raise funds via Indiegogo to open a craft cocktail bar tentatively called Bar 383 inside its distillery, with the plan being to offer drinks in a "relaxing environment" that includes a "fully functioning bar serving spirits only available at the distillery." The business is trying to raise $20,000 by April 22, with the money going towards the installation of bar equipment and "requisite hook-ups" while keeping the historic character of the place intact.

GrandTen Distilling, which first opened in 2012, makes such products as rum, gin, cranberry liqueur, and more.

The address for GrandTen Distilling (and its proposed bar) is 383 Dorchester Avenue, Boston, MA, 02127. Its website can be found at http://www.grandten.com/

[July 5, 2016 update: A new article from Eater Boston states that the cocktail bar within GrandTen Distilling opens this weekend, and that it will be called GrandTen Bar (not Bar 383, which had been its original name).]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Sunday, March 22, 2015

Confirmed: The Lobster Pool Restaurant in Rockport Has Been Sold, Is Reopening in April

A popular seafood shack with some of the best views in the state has just announced that it will be reopening, presumably under new ownership.

According to posts within its Facebook page, the Lobster Pool Restaurant in Rockport is planning to reopen on April 3, with a note from the dining spot saying that "It is under contract right now, but the same staff will still be there." Last October, we had reported that the eatery, which is located on Route 127 near the Gloucester line, had been sold, but a couple of days ago a real estate listing showed that the property was still up for sale. It is not yet known who purchased the restaurant, nor is it known if the menu will change; as soon as we get more information, we will post an update here.

[March 23 update: According to a new note on their Facebook page, the menu at the Lobster Pool will not be changing.]

[April 2 update: A new post on its Facebook page indicates that the Lobster Pool is not opening tomorrow (Friday, April 3) after all, as they say "It is under contract with new ownership. It will be open for the season the middle of April."]

[April 7 update: Good Morning Gloucester states that the Lobster Pool officially changed hands today, and the owners are the people behind The Farm Bar & Grille in Essex (they also have locations in Manchester and Dover, NH).]

[April 9 update: According to a new post on their Facebook page, the Lobster Pool is opens a week from today.]

The Lobster Pool Restaurant has been featured on our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants), with the review being found at the link below:

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

The address for the Lobster Pool Restaurant is 329 Granite Street (Route 127), Rockport, MA, 01966. Its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/TheLobsterPool

[Earlier Article]
The Lobster Pool Restaurant in Rockport Is Being Sold

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


Friday, March 20, 2015

The Townshend Is Opening in Quincy Center

A new restaurant and bar is on its way to Quincy, opening in a mixed-use property in the heart of the city.

According to a post within the jobs section of the BostonChefs.com site, The Townshend is coming to Quincy Center and is looking to staff its kitchen for its upcoming opening. A web check shows a bare-bones website for the spot, with the sole page indicating that it will be a "modern tavern" opening in Presidents Place, which is located on Hancock Street by the circle in the downtown area and is currently home to Quincy College, a location of Dunkin' Donuts, and the Adams National Historical Park visitor center. Little else is known about The Townshend, including the owner(s), when it might open, what the setup of the place may be, and what its menu might include; as soon as we find out more, we will post an update here.

[May 12 update: The Boston Herald mentions that The Townshend plans to open this weekend, with owner Devin Adams and chef Bobby Sisson having worked for two of the best-known chefs and restaurateurs in the Boston area--Barbara Lynch and Garrett Harker.]

[May 17 update: according to a Twitter post from @footballfacts, The Townshend is now open.]

The address for this new tavern in Quincy Center is: The Townshend, 1250 Hancock Street, Quincy, MA, 02169. Its website will be at http://www.thetownshend.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.]



Thursday, March 19, 2015

Belkin Family Lookout Farm in Natick Plans to Add Hard Cider Taproom

An historic farm in South Natick is making plans to sell hard cider, and it has just been given approval to let customers taste samples of it on the premises.

According to an article in Wicked Local Natick, town selectmen have voted in favor of a pouring permit that would allow patrons at Belkin Family Lookout Farm to try the cider in a taproom area that the business plans to produce and sell. The post says that the Pleasant Street farm is not looking to set up a restaurant, though they would like to offer some food at some point in addition to cider tastings if they are approved of a common victualler's license. Selectmen do say that while the pouring permit is being allowed under current regulations, those regulations could be changed down the road once everything is in place.

[June 2 update: UrbanDaddy states that the pouring area--which will be called The Lookout Taproom--is opening this Friday (June 5), and charcuterie boards, flatbreads, and gelato will all be offered as well.]

The Belkin website says that the farm dates all the way back to 1651.

The address for Belkin Family Lookout Farm is 89 Pleasant St, Natick, MA 01760; its website can be found at http://www.lookoutfarm.com/

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Owners of Gracenote and The Coffee Trike Opening Gracenote Coffee in Boston

The people behind a micro coffee roaster and a mobile cafe are joining up to debut a brick-and-mortar espresso bar in downtown Boston.

Boston Magazine is reporting that Patrick Barter of Gracenote Coffee and Alessandro "San" Bellino, of The Coffee Trike are collaborating on a project that will bring a coffee shop to Lincoln Street in the Leather District, working with Jesse Baerkahn of the retail development and urban advisory firm Graffito SP to open the espresso bar in the front half of Graffito's office. The article says that the space will include Graffito's headquarters in the back, a conference room/public cupping area that is off to the side, and the shop (which will be open seven days a week) by the front entrance.

Gracenote Coffee is a coffee roaster based in Berlin, MA, while The Coffee Trike is set up on a seasonal basis in Dewey Square on the Rose Kennedy Greenway.

[April 27 update: According to a licensing board page within the City of Boston website, it looks like the new espresso bar on Lincoln Street will be called Gracenote Coffee.]

[September 29 update: Eater Boston states that The Coffee Trike will be shutting down over the next couple of weeks, as Bellino and Barter get ready to open their new espresso bar.]

[October 14 update: A poster on the Chowhound site says that Gracenote Coffee is now open on Lincoln Street.]

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



Sabroso Taqueria in Boston Is Launching a Food Truck

A Mexican eatery that returned to downtown Boston in 2014 after closing down several years ago is going to be bringing a food truck to the city as well.

Eater Boston is reporting (via the Rose Kennedy Greenway Conservancy) that Sabroso Taqueria on Oliver Street is getting ready to introduce a truck for the sixth season of the Mobile Eats program, which starts at the beginning of April. The truck, which will be set up somewhere along the Greenway, will offer such items as quesadillas, tacos, and burritos, according to EB.

The people behind Zo (a pair of Greek restaurants in downtown Boston) reopened Sabroso in the city's Financial District last October, with its new location being a few blocks away from its previous spot on Washington Street in Downtown Crossing (the original location--which was a food stand--closed in 2008).

[April 10 update: A note from Hub Food Trucks indicates that the Sabroso truck is now up and running (it has been at Stuart Street in Boston today).]

The website for Sabroso can be found at http://www.sabrosotaqueria.com/

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



Wednesday, March 18, 2015

Arc in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood Has Closed

A nightclub and lounge in the Fenway section of Boston has closed its doors due to a lease issue.

According to a Facebook post from the place, Arc on Beacon Street is no longer in operation, with the note saying that the club has been without a lease for more than five years and had received an eviction notice from the landlord sometime last year. It sounds like the owners of Arc are possibly looking to reopen elsewhere, saying that they "hope to move the license to a new location in the near future."

Arc first opened in July of 2013, replacing the Irish pub An Tua Nua, which was under the same ownership and had been in business for more than 15 years.

The address for this now-closed nightclub and lounge in the Fenway was: Arc, 835 Beacon Street, Boston, MA, 02215.

Thanks to a poster on the Chowhound site for bringing this to our attention.

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



Prima e Dopo in East Boston to Close

A cafe affiliated with an Italian restaurant that was once featured on a popular Food Network show is closing, and it appears that a conflict between its partners is the reason for its closure.

According to a Facebook post from Rino's in East Boston, the owners of that place have announced that their bar Prima e Dopo--which is located across the street--will be shutting down on June 1, with the post mentioning that "'partnership' is not a friend of Tony and I....We tried our best to make it work, and it did work! Unfortunately not in our partners eyes....when things went bad, we needed the other half to come forward and work together as a team, I'm sorry to say my partner didn't and wouldn't." The note goes on to say that the owners of Rino's considered buying the partner out, but according to them, his price was "ridiculous," with the post concluding by reassuring diners that Rino's will remain in operation.

Prima e Dopo first opened on Saratoga Street in February of 2012, giving those waiting for a table at Rino's a place to go for a drink and/or an appetizer rather than waiting outside. (The cafe also offered desserts as well.)

Rino's gained quite a bit of popularity after it was featured on Guy Fieri's show "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" in the fall of 2010, with Fieri looking at items such as their lobster ravioli.

The address for Prima e Dopo is 300 Saratoga Street, East Boston, MA 02128.

Thanks to Cappy in Boston for initially bringing this to our attention.

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Tuesday, March 17, 2015

Highlights for the Week Ending March 13, 2015

Several more stories and articles focusing on the Boston-area restaurant scene came out over the past week, including a chain of drive-ins gearing up for a major expansion in the region, a Polynesian restaurant possibly closing, and a renovated Cambridge spot being recognized by Zagat. In addition, our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants) included an updated review of an Irish pub on the South Shore, a photo of a sub from a Greek restaurant, and a recipe for a dish that includes a rare type of pasta.

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

Boston Restaurant Talk

Sonic Drive-In Eyes Major Expansion in the Boston Area

The Rumor Mill: Is Fantasy Island in Salem Closing?

Zagat Includes Bukowski Tavern in Cambridge Among the 15 Hottest New Beer Bars in the United States

Zocalo Cocina Mexicana in Arlington Has Closed

Centre Street Sanctuary in Jamaica Plain Is Closing

Boston's Hidden Restaurants

Updated Review: The Snug in Hingham, MA

New Photo: Steak and Cheese Sub from The Restaurant in Woburn, MA

New Photo: Crab Cake Benedict from the Mad Hatter Cafe in Weymouth, MA

Recipe: Trenne alla Vodka

New Photo: Chicken Parmigiana from the Swanton Street Diner in Winchester, MA

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Monday, March 16, 2015

Tavern in the Square Group Involved in Opening of Tavitas at South Station in Boston

It looks like the group behind a local chain of dining and drinking spots is going to be involved in the opening of a Mexican restaurant in the heart of Boston--and it should be popular with commuters.

According to an article from Eater Boston, a new spot called Tavitas is seeking the liquor licence from the now-closed Brighton Beer Garden, with the proposed eatery apparently looking to open somewhere within South Station. A web search gave a bit more information about the place, including the finding of a website for the restaurant saying it will be a "Mexican joint" that is coming this spring. The site also confirms what EB mentioned, that Tavern in the Square is involved with the opening of the dining spot (Tavern in the Square has an outlet at South Station, by the way).

Currently, locations of Tavern in the Square can be found in Boston's North Station and South Station as well as in Cambridge's Central Square and Porter Square, Allston, Burlington, Northborough, and Salem. (The people behind the restaurants also run Union Street in Newton Centre.)

[June 22 update: According to a job post within the Craigslist site, Tavitas is now hiring--and its job post is rather interesting; the post says that it will be a "Bad Ass Mexican restaurant inspired by the flavors, sounds and culture of East LA...with food made with authentic ingredients and bold flavors that will punch you in the mouth." A new article from Eater Boston indicates that the South Station eatery could be opening sometime this summer.]

[July 31 update: The Boston Business Journal states that Tavitas (which it describes as an "in your face" dining spot) plans to open sometime in mid-August; the article also says that Tavern in the Square owner Stephen DeSousa is one of the people behind it, along with Joey Arcari and Renato Valentin.]

[August 17 update: UrbanDaddy says that Tavitas opens a week from today (Monday, August 24).]

The website for Tavitas will be at http://www.tavitas.com/

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Update: D'Amelio's Off the Boat Seafood in East Boston Is Moving to Revere; Pilones Moving into Its Old Space

[Ed note: This article was updated on March 16 to reflect new information given, including the fact that this is a move rather than a closing.]

An Italian seafood restaurant in East Boston is going to be leaving its space, with a new dining spot moving in.

According to a Licensing Board page within the City of Boston website, D'Amelio's Off the Boat Italian and Seafood Restaurant is looking to transfer its license to a new place called Pilones, which would open within the same Porter Street space. Based on its name, the new eatery might possibly be either a Central American or South American spot, though little is known about it at this point in time. [UPDATE: According to a poster on Twitter, D'Amelio's is moving to Revere, with another poster saying (via a Twitter post and a subsequent message) that it is moving into the Revere Street space where Maggio's had been until closing three years ago.]

[March 17 update: Eater Boston mentions that the new location of D'Amelio's in Revere is hoping to open by April 10.]

[April 6 update: A poster on the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants group page says that D'Amelio's Off the Boat is now closed in East Boston, with the new location in Revere opening around April 9 or April 10.]

[April 10 update: A note from the restaurant confirms that D'Amelio's Off the Boat is now open in its new home in Revere, with the official opening being yesterday.]

D'Amelio's Off the Boat Italian and Seafood Restaurant has been around in its present form for approximately eight years (it had previously been a takeout spot), featuring an array of seafood dishes such as char-grilled octopus, fried calamari, broiled swordfish, lobster fra diavolo, sauteed mussels, and clam rolls.

The address for D'Amelio's Off the Boat (and the proposed Pilones) is 26 Porter Street, Boston, MA, 02128; the address for the new location of D'Amelio's will be 306 Revere Street, Revere, MA 02151.

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