Sunset Grill and Tap
130 Brighton Avenue
Allston, MA 02134
(617) 254-1331
www.allstonsfinest.com
So this one is obvious. I wouldn't call this a hidden gem by any means, but it sure is a gem nonetheless. Sunset boasts the largest selection of beer on the east coast, with 112 taps (changing frequently) and "380 microbrews and exotic imports." Yay!
This place is great for big groups, has a large and somewhat inexpensive menu, and has staff who know their beer.
There really isn't much else to say. If you like beer, then please keep two things in mind: 1) You and I can be friends. 2) Go to the Sunset.
Why it's a gem:
With that many beers on tap, how can it not be a gem?
Large space
Knowledgable staff
Tips:
They supposedly have a club you can join. I like clubs.
Above it is Big City, a bar/pool hall they own. Good beer and pool.
Showing posts with label Allston. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Allston. Show all posts
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Monday, May 31, 2010
Bazaar - Allston
Bazaar on Cambridge
424 Cambridge St
Allston, MA 02134
(617) 787-1511
www.bazaarboston.com
I'm really not sure why a lot of the great grocery stores around this city fall under the radar. Despite the fact that I can read very few of the labels or ingredients on the, oftentimes, Russian products, Bazaar is a true gem.
Gazing at the surprisingly large assortment of smoked meats, smoked fish, caviar, and frozen meats, most of which I didn't even realize were even available, I feel as though I'm in a different world -- one with amazing and unusual foods. It has taken me countless visits to begin to take in the things are here. I recommend you do the same. It's worth it.
Where to begin? Really not sure. Okay, so the raw meats are decent and inexpensive (veal chops, chicken thighs and breasts, chopped beef, and random other things). According to the website, there are about 80 types of smoked fish. I've seen several types of caviar there ranging from about $8 to, well, what you'd imagine the price of good caviar to be. I've never seen so many smoked meats, including smoked chicken (which is an excellent addition to dishes such as paella and casoulet). The frozen section is unbelievable, with so many pierogis with different fillings that I probably couldn't carry one of each without a backpack. There are also frozen shrimp, calamari rings, whole fish, quail, duck, and much, much more.
Produce is plentiful, as well as dried nuts and fruits. There are European chocolates galore. Farmer's cheese, which is not too easy to find and MUCH healthier than cream cheese and nearly every other spreadable product, comes in several varieties.
Just as I know I miss something wonderful every time I'm there, I'm sure I'm forgetting to write about certain things now. Many apologies. I guess you just have to go there.
Why it's a gem:
Smoked meats and fish that are difficult to find elsewhere
Unusual beer and wine for good prices
Inexpensive
Tips:
Check out the wine and beer, and don't be afraid to experiment.
Monini is a popular company for flavored olive oils. This is one of the only places I've seen their Porcini oil. And all the oils, I believe, are $7.99, including the white truffle -- cheapest I've seen.
424 Cambridge St
Allston, MA 02134
(617) 787-1511
www.bazaarboston.com
I'm really not sure why a lot of the great grocery stores around this city fall under the radar. Despite the fact that I can read very few of the labels or ingredients on the, oftentimes, Russian products, Bazaar is a true gem.
Gazing at the surprisingly large assortment of smoked meats, smoked fish, caviar, and frozen meats, most of which I didn't even realize were even available, I feel as though I'm in a different world -- one with amazing and unusual foods. It has taken me countless visits to begin to take in the things are here. I recommend you do the same. It's worth it.
Where to begin? Really not sure. Okay, so the raw meats are decent and inexpensive (veal chops, chicken thighs and breasts, chopped beef, and random other things). According to the website, there are about 80 types of smoked fish. I've seen several types of caviar there ranging from about $8 to, well, what you'd imagine the price of good caviar to be. I've never seen so many smoked meats, including smoked chicken (which is an excellent addition to dishes such as paella and casoulet). The frozen section is unbelievable, with so many pierogis with different fillings that I probably couldn't carry one of each without a backpack. There are also frozen shrimp, calamari rings, whole fish, quail, duck, and much, much more.
Produce is plentiful, as well as dried nuts and fruits. There are European chocolates galore. Farmer's cheese, which is not too easy to find and MUCH healthier than cream cheese and nearly every other spreadable product, comes in several varieties.
Just as I know I miss something wonderful every time I'm there, I'm sure I'm forgetting to write about certain things now. Many apologies. I guess you just have to go there.
Why it's a gem:
Smoked meats and fish that are difficult to find elsewhere
Unusual beer and wine for good prices
Inexpensive
Tips:
Check out the wine and beer, and don't be afraid to experiment.
Monini is a popular company for flavored olive oils. This is one of the only places I've seen their Porcini oil. And all the oils, I believe, are $7.99, including the white truffle -- cheapest I've seen.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Deep Ellum - Allston
Deep Ellum
477 Cambridge Street
Allston, MA 02135
(617) 787-2337
www.deepellum-boston.com
By the time I finally stepped foot inside Deep Ellum, I had already lived within walking distance for 6 months. So when I looked at the cocktail and beer list, I felt ashamed. But don't fret, I have already struck a deal with Doc Brown and will be remedying the situation as quickly as possible.
Deep Ellum is a comfortable bar/restaurant focusing on old fashioned cocktails and good beers. They have a list of "Manhattans 10 Ways" which include a variety of Manhattans, customed to the generation for which they were named. The draft beer list is impressive, and they have plenty of extra special stuff by the bottle. By the way, the wine list is surprisingly good and affordable for specializing in cocktails and beer.
The food -- I will admit that I have not had dinner here, but if it's as good as the brunch and lunch, I'm sold. It's possible I haven't had dinner because it doesn't rhyme with brunch or lunch. The brunch is fantastic, especially the pulled pork with a poached egg. I'm a bit picky when it comes to burgers -- I don't find too many that are juicy enough. But this place is essential for a burger and a beer.
Definitely check it out. It's located in a completely unconventional part of a neighborhood for a gastropub. That makes it even cooler.
Why it's a gem:
AMAZING cocktails -- one of the best lists I've seen in these parts.
Outdoor patio for soaking up the sun. Or the wind. Or the rain.
Beer. Beer. Beer.
Tips:
If you're a nerd like me, you'll be happy to know they give you the key to their wireless network.
477 Cambridge Street
Allston, MA 02135
(617) 787-2337
www.deepellum-boston.com
By the time I finally stepped foot inside Deep Ellum, I had already lived within walking distance for 6 months. So when I looked at the cocktail and beer list, I felt ashamed. But don't fret, I have already struck a deal with Doc Brown and will be remedying the situation as quickly as possible.
Deep Ellum is a comfortable bar/restaurant focusing on old fashioned cocktails and good beers. They have a list of "Manhattans 10 Ways" which include a variety of Manhattans, customed to the generation for which they were named. The draft beer list is impressive, and they have plenty of extra special stuff by the bottle. By the way, the wine list is surprisingly good and affordable for specializing in cocktails and beer.
The food -- I will admit that I have not had dinner here, but if it's as good as the brunch and lunch, I'm sold. It's possible I haven't had dinner because it doesn't rhyme with brunch or lunch. The brunch is fantastic, especially the pulled pork with a poached egg. I'm a bit picky when it comes to burgers -- I don't find too many that are juicy enough. But this place is essential for a burger and a beer.
Definitely check it out. It's located in a completely unconventional part of a neighborhood for a gastropub. That makes it even cooler.
Why it's a gem:
AMAZING cocktails -- one of the best lists I've seen in these parts.
Outdoor patio for soaking up the sun. Or the wind. Or the rain.
Beer. Beer. Beer.
Tips:
If you're a nerd like me, you'll be happy to know they give you the key to their wireless network.
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