Tag: Kenmore Square

  • Mother’s Day Dining 2014, Reserve Now for May 11th!

    Time to make reservations, if you plan to treat Mom to a meal out on Mother's Day, May 11, 2014.

    Keep in mind that this "treat Mom to a great meal day" falls at the beginning of graduation season in Boston with Simmons College, Emmanuel College, Fisher College, Emerson College, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, and Berklee College of Music holding commencements that weekend. (Here's the full list of Spring 2014 Commencement Dates for planning purposes.)

    6a00e54fc42bb8883401538e222059970b-800wi

    If your budget is tight, take Mom out for breakfast or treat her to breakfast in bed and some lovely flowers.

    For Mother's Day dining ideas, here are two excellent lists of restaurants with special menus and hours for May 11, 2014.

    Don't be surprised if some places require a credit card to secure the reservation. This is the type of holiday when people may book multiple restaurants and decide where to go at the last moment. That can make the restaurant turn away other potential customers, so a guarantee may be needed to reserve.

    OpenTable always does a great job of guiding you to the right reservation. What's more, you can just click through and reserve from this list. 

    Boston Chefs has a list of specials for the day from their members. (That link is to the 2013 list and it will be updated closer to the date.)

    As more great Boston food sites publish their recommendations, we'll post updates here! Follow us on Twitter ( @BostonZest ) for notice of those additions! Right now, here are a few recommendations from last year.

    Update 05.07.13: from the North Shore Dish Team here are places to take Mom North of Boston.

    Update 05.10.13: From Grub Street Boston: Grub Guide: Where to Hang Out With Mom If You're Not Into Brunch Buffets

    Update 05.10.13: From Lisa DeCanio: Treat Mom to One of These 12 Mother's Day Brunches

    Our picks:

    For a gathering of family members with different food preferences, it's great to know about a place like Eastern Standard where they can please the cocktail lover, the meat-and-taters brother, and the family epicure.

    If you are meeting people from outside the city, you might consider La Morra in Brookline. They say, "Treat your mom for a 3-course brunch w/favorites such as fresh donuts with spiced sugar and cream, Tuscan toast and homemade frittatas."

    If Mom is a seafood lover, call now to secure a table at Island Creek Oyster Bar. This Kenmore Square restaurant has established itself as the best fine dining seafood restaurant in Boston. Your family will enjoy the best in seafood in a big, comfortable room with reservations and service that will make Mom feel spoiled. 

    And, this year, the Island Creek Team has added a new spot out in the Fort Point neighborhood, Row 34. Here's our first look at this great addition to the city's dining scene.  

    And, for the best gift, let her choose something from her Wish List. Get an Amazon Gift Card! You can send it by email or print it out to tuck into a greeting card.

    Details:
    Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photo: istockphoto.com

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

  • Mother’s Day Dining 2014, Reserve Now for May 11th!

    Time to make reservations, if you plan to treat Mom to a meal out on Mother's Day, May 11, 2014.

    Keep in mind that this "treat Mom to a great meal day" falls at the beginning of graduation season in Boston with Simmons College, Emmanuel College, Fisher College, Emerson College, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, and Berklee College of Music holding commencements that weekend. (Here's the full list of Spring 2014 Commencement Dates for planning purposes.)

    6a00e54fc42bb8883401538e222059970b-800wi

    If your budget is tight, take Mom out for breakfast or treat her to breakfast in bed and some lovely flowers.

    For Mother's Day dining ideas, here are two excellent lists of restaurants with special menus and hours for May 11, 2014.

    Don't be surprised if some places require a credit card to secure the reservation. This is the type of holiday when people may book multiple restaurants and decide where to go at the last moment. That can make the restaurant turn away other potential customers, so a guarantee may be needed to reserve.

    OpenTable always does a great job of guiding you to the right reservation. What's more, you can just click through and reserve from this list. 

    Boston Chefs has a list of specials for the day from their members. (That link is to the 2013 list and it will be updated closer to the date.)

    As more great Boston food sites publish their recommendations, we'll post updates here! Follow us on Twitter ( @BostonZest ) for notice of those additions! Right now, here are a few recommendations from last year.

    Update 05.07.13: from the North Shore Dish Team here are places to take Mom North of Boston.

    Update 05.10.13: From Grub Street Boston: Grub Guide: Where to Hang Out With Mom If You're Not Into Brunch Buffets

    Update 05.10.13: From Lisa DeCanio: Treat Mom to One of These 12 Mother's Day Brunches

    Our picks:

    For a gathering of family members with different food preferences, it's great to know about a place like Eastern Standard where they can please the cocktail lover, the meat-and-taters brother, and the family epicure.

    If you are meeting people from outside the city, you might consider La Morra in Brookline. They say, "Treat your mom for a 3-course brunch w/favorites such as fresh donuts with spiced sugar and cream, Tuscan toast and homemade frittatas."

    If Mom is a seafood lover, call now to secure a table at Island Creek Oyster Bar. This Kenmore Square restaurant has established itself as the best fine dining seafood restaurant in Boston. Your family will enjoy the best in seafood in a big, comfortable room with reservations and service that will make Mom feel spoiled. 

    And, this year, the Island Creek Team has added a new spot out in the Fort Point neighborhood, Row 34. Here's our first look at this great addition to the city's dining scene.  

    And, for the best gift, let her choose something from her Wish List. Get an Amazon Gift Card! You can send it by email or print it out to tuck into a greeting card.

    Details:
    Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photo: istockphoto.com

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

  • Row 34 Restaurant: Our First Look

    We paid our first visit to Row 34 in the Fort Point neighborhood as a part of our current "staycation." Our lunch last week was a hit with both of us.

    IMG_0230 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-oyster-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    That lovely oyster is one of the Row 34s from Island Creek Oyster Farm that gave the name to this place. The restaurant is from the same group that made Kenmore Square a dining destination with Island Creek Oyster Bar, Eastern Standard, and The Hawthorne.

    IMG_0148 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-beer-cask-Tröegs-Nugget-Nectar-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    In doing my pre-visit menu research, I spotted cask beer on the menu. One of our first questions was to ask what was in the cask that day. Our fabulous bartender had one of those "I'm gonna make you very happy" smiles on his face as he told us he had just finished preparing a new cask and could offer Ed a taste of Tröegs Nugget Nectar, a hoppy imperial amber ale.

    IMG_0151 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-beer-cask-Tröegs-Nugget-Nectar-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    One sip from the tasting portion put a smile on Ed's face that was still there when we returned home. Apparently, this is a seasonal product not usually available on draft but since Row 34 has their own system, they were able to send their container to the brewery and have it filled.

    We're pretty sure the supply at Row 34 must be gone by now but something else will be coming from that special tap. We later picked up the bottled version at Bauer Wine & Spirits. This has limited availability so grab some now if it tempts you. 

    Ed thinks, "Nugget Nectar is the perfect name, no exaggeration."

    IMG_0260 - Version 22014-02-2524-taps-row-34-© 2011 Penny Cherubino IMG_0220 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-oyster-bar© 2011 Penny Cherubino
    IMG_0167 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-bar-decor-beer-sign-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    As a draft beer lover, he was also impressed with the number of taps and the selection offered. Our friend Howie Rubin from Bauer said to be sure to try the selections from Trillium Brewing Company. Their tasting room happens to be next door but he really enjoyed sampling the beer at Row 34.

    IMG_0154 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-condiments-cava-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    I tried a lovely crisp cava from Pere Mata. And, I had a caddy of flavors to play with as the meal proceeded. (I think they should sell these caddies at both ICOB and Row 34. They would probably be expensive, but I think they'd make a delightful addition to any kitchen counter.)

    IMG_0179 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-roll-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Since I'm a warm buttery lobster roll lover, my order was easy. The usual cole slaw is missing from my order because I can't have mayo. Perhaps that led to an abundance of chips, both regular and sweet potato. Those were one of the lovely, "aren't these wonderful," side notes of the day. Between the two of us, not a chip crumb remained as our plates were removed.

    The lobster was sweet and warm with just enough butter. The roll was so perfect I had to ask if they were making their own. I was told it was Iggy's. It was slightly larger than most hot dog rolls and took the grilling like a pro. Not too sweet and not at all gummy which are common lobster roll problems.

    IMG_0196 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-roll-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Ed was in an oyster mood and did rounds of Island Creeks and Row 34s. Down the center are three saucing options: traditional mignonette, a zingy cocktail sauce, and an Asian influenced version with chilies and cilantro.

    Once more, deep knowledge on the part of our server gave us a detailed background on the growing of Island Creeks vs Row 34s. Island Creeks grow on the ocean floor while Row 34s are suspended in racks for the maturing process.

    IMG_0204 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-island-creek-oysters© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Island Creeks (above) have long been Ed's favorite oyster. But, he was up for a taste test. "I tried a half dozen (3 and 3) and honestly couldn’t tell the difference," he said. "Never one to give up easily, I repeated the order hoping to detect any subtle variations. Same results … outstanding oysters … my kind of experiment."

    IMG_0174 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-tacos-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We also had the lobster tacos which were an old favorite of mine from Chef Jeremy Sewall's Brookline restaurant Lineage. Crisp housemade tacos contain a smear of avocado plus big pieces of cold lobster topped with a bright mango salsa.

    And, yes, these do come three to an order but I was more interested in eating them than taking photos. Ed managed to get this shot while there were still two on the plate.

    I scooped up the remaining salsa with the wonderful potato chips that came with my lobster roll.

    Dessert

    IMG_0257 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-butterscotch-pudding-dessert=rice-crispies-© 2011 Penny Cherubino  IMG_0247 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-candy-bar-dessert-peanuts-brittle-nougart-chocolate-peanuts-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We finished with a butterscotch pudding – another old love from the time when Chef Sewall was at Great Bay which once resided in the space where Island Creek Oyster Bar is today. We also had a candy bar dessert that was our server's favorite. We took half of that home because we were both stuffed.

    IMG_0156 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-kitchen-chef-beer-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 

    Feeling At Home

    In the car on the way home, we both had the same feeling about the hospitality at Row 34. I said, "There is something about walking into a new place and feeling at home within minutes." While Ed noted, "I expected the same service and quality as their Kenmore Square eateries and was not disappointed. I felt at home from the moment I stepped into the space."

    We told our Uber driver to note the location because this was going to be a popular run from all around the area. (BTW, you can get a discount on your first Uber ride at this link and we'll be rewarded with a matching credit to our account.)

    IMG_0170 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-menu-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Row 34 will go into our regular rotation despite the fact that we seldom find ourselves in that part of the city. As we said, this is a destination spot. We both look forward to outdoor seating should warm days ever return to Boston.

    Need more opinions? Here's what the Boston Chowhounds have to say about Row 34.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2014 Ed Cherubino  

  • Row 34 Restaurant: Our First Look

    We paid our first visit to Row 34 in the Fort Point neighborhood as a part of our current "staycation." Our lunch last week was a hit with both of us.

    IMG_0230 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-oyster-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    That lovely oyster is one of the Row 34s from Island Creek Oyster Farm that gave the name to this place. The restaurant is from the same group that made Kenmore Square a dining destination with Island Creek Oyster Bar, Eastern Standard, and The Hawthorne.

    IMG_0148 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-beer-cask-Tröegs-Nugget-Nectar-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    In doing my pre-visit menu research, I spotted cask beer on the menu. One of our first questions was to ask what was in the cask that day. Our fabulous bartender had one of those "I'm gonna make you very happy" smiles on his face as he told us he had just finished preparing a new cask and could offer Ed a taste of Tröegs Nugget Nectar, a hoppy imperial amber ale.

    IMG_0151 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-beer-cask-Tröegs-Nugget-Nectar-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    One sip from the tasting portion put a smile on Ed's face that was still there when we returned home. Apparently, this is a seasonal product not usually available on draft but since Row 34 has their own system, they were able to send their container to the brewery and have it filled.

    We're pretty sure the supply at Row 34 must be gone by now but something else will be coming from that special tap. We later picked up the bottled version at Bauer Wine & Spirits. This has limited availability so grab some now if it tempts you. 

    Ed thinks, "Nugget Nectar is the perfect name, no exaggeration."

    IMG_0260 - Version 22014-02-2524-taps-row-34-© 2011 Penny Cherubino IMG_0220 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-oyster-bar© 2011 Penny Cherubino
    IMG_0167 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-bar-decor-beer-sign-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    As a draft beer lover, he was also impressed with the number of taps and the selection offered. Our friend Howie Rubin from Bauer said to be sure to try the selections from Trillium Brewing Company. Their tasting room happens to be next door but he really enjoyed sampling the beer at Row 34.

    IMG_0154 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-condiments-cava-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    I tried a lovely crisp cava from Pere Mata. And, I had a caddy of flavors to play with as the meal proceeded. (I think they should sell these caddies at both ICOB and Row 34. They would probably be expensive, but I think they'd make a delightful addition to any kitchen counter.)

    IMG_0179 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-roll-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Since I'm a warm buttery lobster roll lover, my order was easy. The usual cole slaw is missing from my order because I can't have mayo. Perhaps that led to an abundance of chips, both regular and sweet potato. Those were one of the lovely, "aren't these wonderful," side notes of the day. Between the two of us, not a chip crumb remained as our plates were removed.

    The lobster was sweet and warm with just enough butter. The roll was so perfect I had to ask if they were making their own. I was told it was Iggy's. It was slightly larger than most hot dog rolls and took the grilling like a pro. Not too sweet and not at all gummy which are common lobster roll problems.

    IMG_0196 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-roll-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Ed was in an oyster mood and did rounds of Island Creeks and Row 34s. Down the center are three saucing options: traditional mignonette, a zingy cocktail sauce, and an Asian influenced version with chilies and cilantro.

    Once more, deep knowledge on the part of our server gave us a detailed background on the growing of Island Creeks vs Row 34s. Island Creeks grow on the ocean floor while Row 34s are suspended in racks for the maturing process.

    IMG_0204 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-island-creek-oysters© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Island Creeks (above) have long been Ed's favorite oyster. But, he was up for a taste test. "I tried a half dozen (3 and 3) and honestly couldn’t tell the difference," he said. "Never one to give up easily, I repeated the order hoping to detect any subtle variations. Same results … outstanding oysters … my kind of experiment."

    IMG_0174 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-tacos-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We also had the lobster tacos which were an old favorite of mine from Chef Jeremy Sewall's Brookline restaurant Lineage. Crisp housemade tacos contain a smear of avocado plus big pieces of cold lobster topped with a bright mango salsa.

    And, yes, these do come three to an order but I was more interested in eating them than taking photos. Ed managed to get this shot while there were still two on the plate.

    I scooped up the remaining salsa with the wonderful potato chips that came with my lobster roll.

    Dessert

    IMG_0257 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-butterscotch-pudding-dessert=rice-crispies-© 2011 Penny Cherubino  IMG_0247 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-candy-bar-dessert-peanuts-brittle-nougart-chocolate-peanuts-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We finished with a butterscotch pudding – another old love from the time when Chef Sewall was at Great Bay which once resided in the space where Island Creek Oyster Bar is today. We also had a candy bar dessert that was our server's favorite. We took half of that home because we were both stuffed.

    IMG_0156 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-kitchen-chef-beer-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 

    Feeling At Home

    In the car on the way home, we both had the same feeling about the hospitality at Row 34. I said, "There is something about walking into a new place and feeling at home within minutes." While Ed noted, "I expected the same service and quality as their Kenmore Square eateries and was not disappointed. I felt at home from the moment I stepped into the space."

    We told our Uber driver to note the location because this was going to be a popular run from all around the area. (BTW, you can get a discount on your first Uber ride at this link and we'll be rewarded with a matching credit to our account.)

    IMG_0170 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-menu-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Row 34 will go into our regular rotation despite the fact that we seldom find ourselves in that part of the city. As we said, this is a destination spot. We both look forward to outdoor seating should warm days ever return to Boston.

    Need more opinions? Here's what the Boston Chowhounds have to say about Row 34.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2014 Ed Cherubino  

  • Row 34 Restaurant: Our First Look

    We paid our first visit to Row 34 in the Fort Point neighborhood as a part of our current "staycation." Our lunch last week was a hit with both of us.

    IMG_0230 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-oyster-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    That lovely oyster is one of the Row 34s from Island Creek Oyster Farm that gave the name to this place. The restaurant is from the same group that made Kenmore Square a dining destination with Island Creek Oyster Bar, Eastern Standard, and The Hawthorne.

    IMG_0148 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-beer-cask-Tröegs-Nugget-Nectar-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    In doing my pre-visit menu research, I spotted cask beer on the menu. One of our first questions was to ask what was in the cask that day. Our fabulous bartender had one of those "I'm gonna make you very happy" smiles on his face as he told us he had just finished preparing a new cask and could offer Ed a taste of Tröegs Nugget Nectar, a hoppy imperial amber ale.

    IMG_0151 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-beer-cask-Tröegs-Nugget-Nectar-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    One sip from the tasting portion put a smile on Ed's face that was still there when we returned home. Apparently, this is a seasonal product not usually available on draft but since Row 34 has their own system, they were able to send their container to the brewery and have it filled.

    We're pretty sure the supply at Row 34 must be gone by now but something else will be coming from that special tap. We later picked up the bottled version at Bauer Wine & Spirits. This has limited availability so grab some now if it tempts you. 

    Ed thinks, "Nugget Nectar is the perfect name, no exaggeration."

    IMG_0260 - Version 22014-02-2524-taps-row-34-© 2011 Penny Cherubino IMG_0220 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-oyster-bar© 2011 Penny Cherubino
    IMG_0167 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-bar-decor-beer-sign-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    As a draft beer lover, he was also impressed with the number of taps and the selection offered. Our friend Howie Rubin from Bauer said to be sure to try the selections from Trillium Brewing Company. Their tasting room happens to be next door but he really enjoyed sampling the beer at Row 34.

    IMG_0154 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-condiments-cava-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    I tried a lovely crisp cava from Pere Mata. And, I had a caddy of flavors to play with as the meal proceeded. (I think they should sell these caddies at both ICOB and Row 34. They would probably be expensive, but I think they'd make a delightful addition to any kitchen counter.)

    IMG_0179 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-roll-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Since I'm a warm buttery lobster roll lover, my order was easy. The usual cole slaw is missing from my order because I can't have mayo. Perhaps that led to an abundance of chips, both regular and sweet potato. Those were one of the lovely, "aren't these wonderful," side notes of the day. Between the two of us, not a chip crumb remained as our plates were removed.

    The lobster was sweet and warm with just enough butter. The roll was so perfect I had to ask if they were making their own. I was told it was Iggy's. It was slightly larger than most hot dog rolls and took the grilling like a pro. Not too sweet and not at all gummy which are common lobster roll problems.

    IMG_0196 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-roll-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Ed was in an oyster mood and did rounds of Island Creeks and Row 34s. Down the center are three saucing options: traditional mignonette, a zingy cocktail sauce, and an Asian influenced version with chilies and cilantro.

    Once more, deep knowledge on the part of our server gave us a detailed background on the growing of Island Creeks vs Row 34s. Island Creeks grow on the ocean floor while Row 34s are suspended in racks for the maturing process.

    IMG_0204 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-island-creek-oysters© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Island Creeks (above) have long been Ed's favorite oyster. But, he was up for a taste test. "I tried a half dozen (3 and 3) and honestly couldn’t tell the difference," he said. "Never one to give up easily, I repeated the order hoping to detect any subtle variations. Same results … outstanding oysters … my kind of experiment."

    IMG_0174 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-lobster-tacos-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We also had the lobster tacos which were an old favorite of mine from Chef Jeremy Sewall's Brookline restaurant Lineage. Crisp housemade tacos contain a smear of avocado plus big pieces of cold lobster topped with a bright mango salsa.

    And, yes, these do come three to an order but I was more interested in eating them than taking photos. Ed managed to get this shot while there were still two on the plate.

    I scooped up the remaining salsa with the wonderful potato chips that came with my lobster roll.

    Dessert

    IMG_0257 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-butterscotch-pudding-dessert=rice-crispies-© 2011 Penny Cherubino  IMG_0247 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-candy-bar-dessert-peanuts-brittle-nougart-chocolate-peanuts-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We finished with a butterscotch pudding – another old love from the time when Chef Sewall was at Great Bay which once resided in the space where Island Creek Oyster Bar is today. We also had a candy bar dessert that was our server's favorite. We took half of that home because we were both stuffed.

    IMG_0156 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-kitchen-chef-beer-chips-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 

    Feeling At Home

    In the car on the way home, we both had the same feeling about the hospitality at Row 34. I said, "There is something about walking into a new place and feeling at home within minutes." While Ed noted, "I expected the same service and quality as their Kenmore Square eateries and was not disappointed. I felt at home from the moment I stepped into the space."

    We told our Uber driver to note the location because this was going to be a popular run from all around the area. (BTW, you can get a discount on your first Uber ride at this link and we'll be rewarded with a matching credit to our account.)

    IMG_0170 - Version 22014-02-25-row 34-menu-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Row 34 will go into our regular rotation despite the fact that we seldom find ourselves in that part of the city. As we said, this is a destination spot. We both look forward to outdoor seating should warm days ever return to Boston.

    Need more opinions? Here's what the Boston Chowhounds have to say about Row 34.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2014 Ed Cherubino  

  • Menus from the Hotel Braemore, Kenmore Square in 1956

    Boston restaurants may thrill food lovers today but, back in 1956, plain Yankee fare was on the menu at the Hotel Braemore.

     
    Braymore menu luncheon

    Lets see, I think I'll order the "Boiled, Smoked Daisy Ham with Buttered Cabbage" and have sherbet for dessert. You did have to add on the 5% Massachusetts Old Age Tax. Still, with a generous tip, that should come to about $3. (Click on any image for a slightly larger version.)

    Brawmore dinner menu

    Dinner did cost slightly more unless you decided to go with the Chef's Suggestion for $1.95.

    Hotel Braemore Post card

    Today, the Hotel Braemore is the The Braemore, a condominium community. Its website features two pages of history with wonderful old images of the building and photos taken from the building.

    They call it, What's Old and What's Old II.

    When it opened, the Braemore was an apartment hotel. In his book, Built in Boston, historian Douglas Shand-Tucci wrote that by 1919 this area around Charlesgate, "… had emerged as the most prestigious address." 

    Braemore ad
    Residence or apartment hotels offered options like those shown in this ad for the Braemore as it opened. "Suites from one room, reception hall and bath to five rooms, reception hall and two baths…" Notice that they don't mention kitchens. In many places like the Braemore, the residents would eat in the hotel's dining room or at their social club.

    Let's hope that the "Chef's Suggestion" changed daily!

    What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your kitchen & dining needs and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Artwork from a private collection, Dinner menu from The Braemore site.

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Menus from the Hotel Braemore, Kenmore Square in 1956

    Boston restaurants may thrill food lovers today but, back in 1956, plain Yankee fare was on the menu at the Hotel Braemore.

     
    Braymore menu luncheon

    Lets see, I think I'll order the "Boiled, Smoked Daisy Ham with Buttered Cabbage" and have sherbet for dessert. You did have to add on the 5% Massachusetts Old Age Tax. Still, with a generous tip, that should come to about $3. (Click on any image for a slightly larger version.)

    Brawmore dinner menu

    Dinner did cost slightly more unless you decided to go with the Chef's Suggestion for $1.95.

    Hotel Braemore Post card

    Today, the Hotel Braemore is the The Braemore, a condominium community. Its website features two pages of history with wonderful old images of the building and photos taken from the building.

    They call it, What's Old and What's Old II.

    When it opened, the Braemore was an apartment hotel. In his book, Built in Boston, historian Douglas Shand-Tucci wrote that by 1919 this area around Charlesgate, "… had emerged as the most prestigious address." 

    Braemore ad
    Residence or apartment hotels offered options like those shown in this ad for the Braemore as it opened. "Suites from one room, reception hall and bath to five rooms, reception hall and two baths…" Notice that they don't mention kitchens. In many places like the Braemore, the residents would eat in the hotel's dining room or at their social club.

    Let's hope that the "Chef's Suggestion" changed daily!

    What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your kitchen & dining needs and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Artwork from a private collection, Dinner menu from The Braemore site.

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Menus from the Hotel Braemore, Kenmore Square in 1956

    Boston restaurants may thrill food lovers today but, back in 1956, plain Yankee fare was on the menu at the Hotel Braemore.

     
    Braymore menu luncheon

    Lets see, I think I'll order the "Boiled, Smoked Daisy Ham with Buttered Cabbage" and have sherbet for dessert. You did have to add on the 5% Massachusetts Old Age Tax. Still, with a generous tip, that should come to about $3. (Click on any image for a slightly larger version.)

    Brawmore dinner menu

    Dinner did cost slightly more unless you decided to go with the Chef's Suggestion for $1.95.

    Hotel Braemore Post card

    Today, the Hotel Braemore is the The Braemore, a condominium community. Its website features two pages of history with wonderful old images of the building and photos taken from the building.

    They call it, What's Old and What's Old II.

    When it opened, the Braemore was an apartment hotel. In his book, Built in Boston, historian Douglas Shand-Tucci wrote that by 1919 this area around Charlesgate, "… had emerged as the most prestigious address." 

    Braemore ad
    Residence or apartment hotels offered options like those shown in this ad for the Braemore as it opened. "Suites from one room, reception hall and bath to five rooms, reception hall and two baths…" Notice that they don't mention kitchens. In many places like the Braemore, the residents would eat in the hotel's dining room or at their social club.

    Let's hope that the "Chef's Suggestion" changed daily!

    What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your kitchen & dining needs and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Artwork from a private collection, Dinner menu from The Braemore site.

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Toast April with Nino Franco Prosecco – an 11% Sparkler!

    Another month means another sparkling toast from us to the future. This time, we raise a glass of Nino Franco Rustico Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. Not only does this wonderful Italian sparkler add light and life to our day, but it also does it with a low 11% alcohol so that we can have a glass for lunch and then go back to work.

    (Note: We're not recommending that you drink and drive or do critical tasks after a glass of wine. We walk to our home office and only operate keyboards and cameras.)

    DSC_2818 - Version 22013-03-25-Nino Franco-prosecco-low-alcohol-wine-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    This wine is 100% Glera, the traditional grape for Prosecco. In fact, the grape was called Prosecco for most of its history until recently. According to Wikipedia, the book "Il roccolo Ditirambo," written by Aureliano Acanti in 1754 says, "And now I would like to wet my mouth with that Prosecco with its apple bouquet."

    DSC_2825 - Version 22013-03-25-Nino Franco-prosecco-low-alcohol-wine-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    This sparkler is also a great value when you can find it around the $15.99 price at retail. We bought ours at Bauer Wine & Spirits on Newbury Street.

    It is straw colored with persistent bubbles and a crisp, pleasant flavor and, yes, an apple note that makes you understand how a host in the Veneto or Friuli regions of Italy might greet evey guest with a glass of this as a sparkling welcome.

    Photo

    You'll also find it on wine lists across the area. While it is about to rotate off the list at Island Creek Oyster Bar in Kenmore Square, we did enjoy a glass for lunch last week and could return to work and accomplish something post Nino! (Island Creek also has a reserve offering from Nino Franco on the current list that you may want to try.)

     Photo - Version 22013-03-25-Nino Franco-prosecco-low-alcohol-wine-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We're on the hunt for more wines in the 12% alcohol or less category. We'll also be posing this topic to some of our wine mentors and reporting back on their recommendations.

    If you find a good one, let us know. 

    Here's more about Our Sparkling Resolution      

    And, Our Sparkling Resolution Winner’s List

    Want to learn more about wine? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site! Here are three of our favorite wine books.

    The Food Lover's Guide to Wine

    The New Wine Lover's Companion

    The Wine Bible

      

    Details:
    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photography: © 2012 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers’ comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.

  • Toast April with Nino Franco Prosecco – an 11% Sparkler!

    Another month means another sparkling toast from us to the future. This time, we raise a glass of Nino Franco Rustico Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG. Not only does this wonderful Italian sparkler add light and life to our day, but it also does it with a low 11% alcohol so that we can have a glass for lunch and then go back to work.

    (Note: We're not recommending that you drink and drive or do critical tasks after a glass of wine. We walk to our home office and only operate keyboards and cameras.)

    DSC_2818 - Version 22013-03-25-Nino Franco-prosecco-low-alcohol-wine-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    This wine is 100% Glera, the traditional grape for Prosecco. In fact, the grape was called Prosecco for most of its history until recently. According to Wikipedia, the book "Il roccolo Ditirambo," written by Aureliano Acanti in 1754 says, "And now I would like to wet my mouth with that Prosecco with its apple bouquet."

    DSC_2825 - Version 22013-03-25-Nino Franco-prosecco-low-alcohol-wine-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    This sparkler is also a great value when you can find it around the $15.99 price at retail. We bought ours at Bauer Wine & Spirits on Newbury Street.

    It is straw colored with persistent bubbles and a crisp, pleasant flavor and, yes, an apple note that makes you understand how a host in the Veneto or Friuli regions of Italy might greet evey guest with a glass of this as a sparkling welcome.

    Photo

    You'll also find it on wine lists across the area. While it is about to rotate off the list at Island Creek Oyster Bar in Kenmore Square, we did enjoy a glass for lunch last week and could return to work and accomplish something post Nino! (Island Creek also has a reserve offering from Nino Franco on the current list that you may want to try.)

     Photo - Version 22013-03-25-Nino Franco-prosecco-low-alcohol-wine-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We're on the hunt for more wines in the 12% alcohol or less category. We'll also be posing this topic to some of our wine mentors and reporting back on their recommendations.

    If you find a good one, let us know. 

    Here's more about Our Sparkling Resolution      

    And, Our Sparkling Resolution Winner’s List

    Want to learn more about wine? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site! Here are three of our favorite wine books.

    The Food Lover's Guide to Wine

    The New Wine Lover's Companion

    The Wine Bible

      

    Details:
    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photography: © 2012 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers’ comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you.