A simplified wine list and knowledgeable staff makes pairing your meal with the perfect wine a cinch. A variety of homemade breads will tempt you from the start. The menu, which is not overly produced, has just the right amount of items to confuse your hungry stomach, as you will not be able to choose what to order as all is beautifully described. If pizza is what will settle your cravings, be adventurous and try the lamb pizza. http://scampoboston.com/
James Hook Co photo courtesy David Duran
This stunning restaurant located in Boston’s Liberty Hotel is a culinary lovers dream destination and was created by legendary Chef Lydia Shire. The Italian inspired menu has hints and inspirations of both the Mediterranean and Middle East. The space is contemporary, dark and sexy. An open kitchen concept allows guests to view Shire’s team in action as they prepare the majority of the starter courses out in the open for all to witness.
Cinquecento photo courtesy Cinquecento
Scampo
photo courtesy Eric Levin
Cinquecento, which translates into 500 in Italian, is located in Boston’s Historic South End. The Roman Trattoria is edgy yet contemporary, while casual and energetic. The oversized dining space is sleek and brand new, as it just recently opened and is already garnering a massive local following. The craft cocktail selection is one of the most impressive as it offers an outstanding range of liquors. Not to be outdone, the wine menu is equally extraordinary. The menu is on the heavy side, offering unique twists on classic Italian dining. The artichoke hearts can’t be missed as a starter and tiramisu must be tried for dessert. http://www.cinquecentoboston.com/
James Hook & Co. is a family business managed by four siblings of the third generation of the Hook family. They are committed to brining the highest of quality lobster and seafood products to both the wholesale and retail markets. From the outside, you wouldn’t know what to expect inside this small permanent trailer, but the moment you walk in and are greeted by the massive lobster tanks and friendly staff, as well as the fast moving line of people, you know you are in for a treat. This retail location has a walk-up counter and dining space provided but it is first come first serve. When coming to Boston, it’s a prerequisite to try the famous Boston lobster (lobstah) roll. The James Hook lobster roll is unofficially the best roll in town as per the locals. They offer both a half roll, or if you are feeling adventurous and have an empty stomach, the full roll. The fresh lobster mixed with their signature sauce makes the Boston delicacy mouthwatering delicious. http://www.jameshooklobster.com/
“I think that curiosity happened on these reviews where I was just a guest of the reviewer, because it introduced me to new cuisines and to the idea of cooking as a mechanism for studying other cultures and understanding other parts of the world.” - Ted Allen
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