BostonFoodGuy

Archive for the ‘Suburbs’ Category

You’ll drive right  by this local favorite in Tewskbury if you weren’t looking for it.  This place is a classic case of don’t judge a book by its cover.  The item to get here are the soups – most made on the premises while other s – well they are still good even if they aren’t.  They have over 12 at any given time – and that’s what counts.  Even a steak bomb soup… yum.  Yea they offer sandwiches and salads and even some fried clams – but trust us – this dive is worth the drive if you in the mood for some fantastic soup.  It’s just plain good.  The Formica tables and odd benches don’t make for great atmosphere – but the soups speaks for itself.   Check it out.

Executive chef Tom Holloway has done a tremendous job at this suburban gem of a restaurant.  I don’t know the whole back story behind the old Todd English Rustic Kitchen in Faneuil Hall and I don’t really care – this is Jim and Kathy Cafarelli’s and I couldn’t be happier.  I am not going to lie, I didn’t expect much considering the location in the outdoor shopping area of Derby Street in Hingham, but what lies inside is nothing short of a fantastic dining experience – especially considering the price.  I have to first comment on the service – because our waitress not only offered heartfelt and honest opinions (I always love it when they tell you what they don’t like on the menu) but was always helpful and attentive.  The ambiance was just lovely – you forgot you were in Hingham the moment you stepped in.  We split an appetizer of the Lobster and artichoke dip – not what I expected but it was delicious with the wontons being very flavorful and crispy.  The wine selection was descent but did offer good value – so I give them a hat tip to being smart for offering such a nice range of offerings.  Then came my pork chops – oh my – think – and juicy – with a wonderful sweetness.  They were brined in an apple cider.  Just perfect – the bostonfoodgal – had the squash ravioli – which were homemade and soft and full of a robust sweet flavor – with the sauce not overpowering the flavors of the ravioli which I liked.  I would highly recommend both dishes.   All in all – the Rustic Kitchen truly surprised me as I was going in not expecting much – but ended up leaving happy with a great meal at a reasonable price. 

Cool, different drinks, overpriced bar food is the best way to describe The Met. Located on Route 9, it’s a strange place for a swanky bar that’s trying to resemble an Upper East Side New York lounge. Parking is tough, and it’s not near anything else. So if you’re looking for a place to meet friends for a drink or two, then The Met can be cool. But if you’re hungry, be prepared to spend $20 for a sandwich, and not have a lot of options. It’s certainly not a place for dinner. Over all you’d expect more from the hype.

Hidden Gem alert. Even though Mai Place in Canton is in a strip mall, next to a ski outlet, it offers a memorable experience. For some reason the place hasn’t caught on yet, but it should and it will. The décor is very clean, and fits well. The whole place is very friendly and appealing. The menu is very diverse with a wonderful sushi bar near the front of the restaurant. The portions are large and the appetizers are wonderful, try the spring rolls. This is a must stop destination.