B & G Oysters
550 Tremont Street
(between Hanson St & Waltham St)
Boston, MA 02116 (617) 423-0550
- Nearest Transit:
Union Park St (Silver)
Back Bay (Orange)
- Price Range: $$$
- Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
- Parking: Street
- Attire: Casual
- Good for Groups: No
- Good for Kids: No
- Takes Reservations: Yes
- Delivers: No
- Take-out: No
- Waiter Service: Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible: No
- Outdoor Seating: Yes
- Good for: Dinner
- Alcohol: Beer & Wine Only
70 Reviews for B & G Oysters
(July/ 2007)
The cutest oyster bar in town!
The fried oysters are a must! And do not leave without trying a taste of the raw bar. Have the waiter of waitress select an assortment of oysters for you to try. You can't go wrong-- fresh and the best!
The mini lobster roll served with a side of fries is delish!
I had one meal in Boston last week and this happened to be it. We were referred here by a friend and overall, I was pretty happy. I'd definitely have to eat here again to get a full impression.
First off...loved the sunken patio area. Perfect for a lovely June night. It was, perhaps, one of the best outdoor dining experiences I've had. Of course, you can't thank the restaurant for the weather.
B&G has a great oyster menu. We had an assortment of four types and they were all great. My fave was the Salt Pond. I wish we'd eaten another dozen.
For our meals we split the scallops ($26, I think) and the lobster special which was a split lobster stuffed with chorizo and breadcrumbs and a side of truffled mac & cheese ($55). The scallops were perfect, sweet and caramelized and cooked just the way I like 'em. The lobster was lobster. I've come to the decision after this meal that I really don't love lobster. I'd prefer crab. That being said, the lobster was tasty, the stuffing added a nice rich saltiness to it and the mac & cheese was good, not fabulous.
Next time, I'll stick to the scallops and oysters and steer clear of the lobster. I'm giving it four stars for potential.
I wish I could give different ratings for different things...so here goes.
First - $16 for valet parking? Really?
We sat outside which was quite lovely even with a few tree droppings on our table. Didn't like that we couldn't push our bench closer to the table (since it is all one piece) so I felt like I was eating quite far away from the table, not too comfy.
Our server was decent - although I wasn't quite sure she knew enough about oysters or the wine for my tastes. She was nice enough to give us plenty of time to order.
So, order we did...we got champagne by the glass to go with our oysters. Ordered a dozen, a few Island Creeks (my fav), some from Nova Scotia (tasty) and some from Washington (meh). Very tasty. But when we tried to get recommendations from our server, she couldn't really describe them by flavor but only by what was most popular.
Our first bottle of wine was not good - again her recommendation after hearing we were after a Pinot Grigio-like wine. The wine she brought out was just not good. We all felt very uncomfortable with the process (I've never sent a wine back before!) and I think she could have solved it by saying, hey if you don't like it, no problem, let me bring you something else, but she stood there - just as awkward as we were! Ugh...finally we told her, we didn't want it, so she brought us something else (again by saying, it's very popular) and that one was fine. I think a little more training in wines would be good for the staff.
The food - I got the fried artichoke - not good! I was expecting small artichokes that were fried whole (like in Italy, sooo delicious!) - instead it was a medium regular sized artichoke that you couldn't eat the leaves of - they were burnt and not edible! I put one in my mouth and chewed...and chewed...and chewed. Finally I had to spit it out. I ended up just eating the heart which was drenched in some sort of mayo like sauce - yuck.
The main course was much better - I shared the stuffed lobster with my friend and the lobster was delicious, the "stuffed" part was at the top of the lobster, so not really part of the dish, seemed like just an afterthought. The mac & cheese was delicious.
We skipped dessert to go to Picco (read review), so can't comment on that.
What I liked - the oysters were great, I loved the ambience of the place, I think I just ordered the wrong things. My friend had the soft shell crab app which she said was delicious.
I'll be back, but maybe just for some oysters and champagne...
I think that if you care about oysters, the only way to have them is raw. And the establishment that serves them to you has to be on high alert for quality and reliability.
If you don't like raw oysters, skip the rest of this review and read what some other hack had to say.
An oyster is a filter, and you are basically tasting whatever passed through that filter. The salt of an Atlantic estuary, the soils of the river that feeds it, the notes of the marsh grasses, the memory of the tides, the minerals of the sea.
B&G hits a home run here.
A icy plate of fat Wellfleets, Duxbury, or Malpeques from PEI, or sweet, cute Kumamotos from the West Coast, served over the course of an evening with a chilled white Bordeaux or a Chablis, comes close to a religious experience. As you get to know the flavor of each location, you'll become friends with the rivers, grasses of the estuaries and the tides that washed over that oyster. Each location provides for amazing differences as you work your way around the serving plate. It's like a grand tour of the taste of the continental seaboards, with your perfect white wine as your guide and interpreter.
You can sit at the outdoor patio and imagine you see the stars in the leafy tangle overhead. Skip the fried foods and lobster rolls. You'll want to stagger back up the stairs to the brick sidewalk, slack-jawed in satisfaction at your oyster-only tour of the coasts.
In the summer, come prepared to wait. People who care about raw oysters have already found out about this place.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
B&G Oysters is a treat for seafood fans--especially lovers of the raw bar. They normally have an excellent selection of oysters and the fried clams and lobster dishes are some of the best around.
The room is in sunken grotto, and the cool blue tiling and dark lighting give it sleek and minimalist nautical feel. The kitchen is completely open and situated behind the bar.
Servers are friendly and knowledgeable. If you're not a oyster expert, I recommend asking the servers for their suggestions. Oyster quality varies on a seemingly daily basis and the waiters seem to know what's good at the time. I've never had a B&G oyster I didn't love.
If you're still hungry after oysters entrees range from fried foods to lobster to fresh fish. My favorites are the lobster roll and the fried clam plate...always cooked to perfection and truly tasty.
You should know, however, that B&G ranks as one of the most over-priced restaurants in the South End, if not all of Boston. As good as the food is, it's hard to stomach paying $30 for a lobster roll. The wines by the glass are also mediocre and overpriced.
All in all, a solid four star.
Boston may be boring but the South End is picking up. B&G Oysters is my new favorite. This little gem is great for champagne, oysters and other pricey seafood. The quality of the food is superb. Finding a table at night, without a reservation, is near impossible.
People thought this was:
Cool (1)
first off the food (the lobster roll, mmm) is incredible. Their wine selection is not only extensive but also quite excellent.
that said, it is unfortunately, like a lot of places in the south end, a little overpriced. Also it is a place to go to if you've had a snack a couple hours earlier or if you're planning on getting dessert somewhere else- unless you're willing to spend.
The oysters also are quite divine and they are a definite must if you're coming here for the first time.
Overall my experience here was good- nothing spectacular in terms of decor and service but the freshness of the seafood/shellfish was incredible.
good for a laid-back date or to try something different
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
I went during restaurant week. My conception was that this is the time when restaurants showcase the best they have to offer. I could only assume that this was not the aim of the restaurant. The appetizer was forgettable and the entre seemed more like a joke. In all my life I had never seen shrimp that small. I mean if I were a fisherman I would have thrown them back or used them as bait.
I have to say though that the oysters, not on the "special menu," were really good. The different sauces complimented the texture and taste of each oyster and you could gorge yourself on those alone. I would keep a wide berth unless enticed by prospects of their oysters.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
My mom and I slipped in here on a rainy Saturday. We are both oyster lovers and were not disappointed here. The service was impeccable and friendly without being overly so. The choice of oysters was wonderful! We tried fried oysters for an appetizer and these were exquisite! The only thing we were not fond of was dessert. Would definitely venture back here.
This place is amazing for several reasons:
1. The wines are great (European) and the waiters will give you very generous samples.
2. The patio is great. But the key to sitting out there is to go at an unusual time in the late afternoon when nobody else is there.
3. The inside has a great atmosphere as well. It's not some lame seafood place with pirates on the wall.
4. Best lobster roll that I've ever had. And I thought Central in Washington, DC had a good one.
It's expensive but well worth it. The food is amazing. But the atmosphere is also a bit unique and that makes it fun. Go here.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
I had heard so much hype about the Lobster BLT so I decided to go. The restaurant is small and diner-like. The best way I can describe the space is that it feels like you are in a large public bathroom. You know those with small dotted tiles on the floor and walls. But its clean so don't worry. I like the open kitchen and how those sitting at the bar can see the action.
I got the lobster BLT which was generous and fresh. It was more of a lobster salad roll than a true lobster roll. Unfortunately the traces of red bell pepper overtook the delicate flavor of the lobster and the bacon was hard. There was too much mayo on it as well. I thought it was stupid to serve the roll with potato chips and not fries. I asked to sub fries and they charged me extra which I think is tacky. It wasn't worth it because the fries were way too greasy with tiny puddles of oil nestled into the grooves of the potatoes.
I also hate Tabasco. Cholula is so much better. When will chefs learn?????
You know that feeling you get after a great meal, with great wine and great company? For me, I get that feeling in my feet. They are happy and tingly and all I want to do is change into PJs and and huge blanket. Last night in the car, I told Josh I could feel the meal in my tingly feet.
Normally, I would have deducted stars for the wait. We waited a little over an hour for a space for four. The waitress kept telling us that the table with our name on it was almost ready. But then they would order another round of oysters and another. And then dessert. And I was a little ticked. And then we ate. And then I understood.
So besides the wait, everything was wonderful. We were starving, so a round of local oysters, friend calamari and the ceviche tacos were inhaled. The raw seafood was cold and perfectly spiced, the fried calamari was light and addictive. Josh said it best when he told us that all he wanted was a movie theater sized bucket of them.
While we waited for our main courses, we watched the kitchen at work. Everything looked and smelled amazing. As soon as we saw something that resembled what we ordered, hope would build and recede as they took the food away from us. The double edged sword of the open kitchen...
We had the Portuguese stew (simple and delicious), the lobster bisque (creamy and rich), the seared tuna (one of the best I have had) and I had the lobster roll (sweet meat on a buttery bun with great french fries and decent french fries). We were all happy and full and swimming from the bottle of Spanish white we were sipping. But were we done? Hells no. Another round of oysters (Rhode Island this time) and then dessert. After dinner we were back out in the rain $200 poorer but with full bellies and plans to come back (with our parents...)
Great service, lively atmosphere, fantastic food, good location. The only downside is the cramped dining room (no room to wait even, let alone have a glass of wine). Like so many placed I love, I will be back, but not that often. It's pricey.
People thought this was:
Useful (4)
Funny (3)
Cool (2)
When I was in Barcelona, we went to this market there, and in the middle was a counter where you could sit, pick out the fish and seafood you wanted, and they would cook it for you; you could watch it from the counter. Then you ate it, and drank a big beer along with it. The whole amazing seafood experience was something like fifteen euros for 4 people.
Funny that practically the same experience here is available only via a "fancy" South End restaurant, for a bargain price of $200 for 4 people!
It's a little basement place that looks like a diner, with no room to wait for a table, and no decor to speak of (but that's idea, I think), and the most amazing smells wafting from the open kitchen! There are tables of varying sizes lining the wall, and a diner-like counter wrapping around the kitchen and rawbar.
There is a huge wine list - we tried an Albarinio, and it was excellent; a formidable oyster selection, although only 2 or 3 local selections, which is a little odd; a small but creative menu. Fish cooked expertly, but I agree, portions are small for the price. I had a half a bowl of lobster bisque and it was delicious, so much so, that I licked the plate (this is status post 2 glasses of wine). Maybe I wouldn't have to resort to plate licking if they filled the bowl?
The service is actually quite friendly, we joked with the waitress and the manager, and we haggled the chefs from our counter seats. The kept opening the emergency exit door right behind us though, and letting in gusts of wintery mix - if that's not done, they told us, the fire alarms will go off and we'll have to evacuate. ???
All in all, a fun night. Will be back - with a reservation.
People thought this was:
Useful (3)
Funny (4)
Cool (4)
Aside from the lobster bisque (too much flour), this place is amazing! The music is hot (Tribe Called Quest was playing while we sat at the bar last night), the service is low-key but good, the wine list is enchanting (and um, expensive), and oh, the oysters! The menu constantly changes, but if you can, try the "Small Choice" oyster, my favorite.
Oysters are the original "diamonds in the rough". I am not sure who was the first person to pick up an oyster at the bottom of the ocean floor and eat one, but i feel this person deserves some major props. Thank you random oyster eating dude!
Now that i have given props to the random oyster eating dude, i must now give props to B&G Oysters. The oysters are fresh and the varieties are expansive. And any good oyster loving New Englander knows this is prime oyster season! B&G also carries one of my favorite oyster varieties: the fanny bay oyster. Very sweet and very delish!
Aside from the oyster varieties, B&G is cozy and inviting. The waitstaff is very helpful and knowledgeable, the wine is great and compliments the oysters nicely, and the open bar is very clean.
The only bad thing is that they do not take reservations for less than four people (but this place is so good that i still will not take away a star), so you and your sweetie will need to plan accordingly. I suggest going there during a weekday to avoid crowds.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Yesterday I had an oyster craving, a really serious one. Not only did I want oysters, but I wanted the perfect oyster eating atmosphere: elegant yet comfortable, clean, inviting and sexy. I found this at B&G Oysters!
Sitting at the bar at B&G is like going to a super classy theme park dedicated to oysters, and every time you try a different type of mouth watering mollusk it is like riding another delightfully thrilling ride.
The glittering mounds of oysters waiting to be shucked stare at you from behind the bar counter, begging you to order more and more.
The tiny Oregon Kumamoto are buttery, sweet, salty and inappropriately delicious.
None of these oysters need anything more than a hint of lemon to help them shine.
I highly recommend this place to any and everyone.
It is really a gift to have a restaurant like this at our fingertips.
I love the way an oyster feels when I pop it onto my tounge. Cool and slimy, like a mouth full of ..... Okay folks, get your mind out of the gutter!
This weekend I sat at the bar of B&G Oysters on Tremont street and I ordered a glass of Pinot Noir. The world then stopped. At least the restaurant did when they saw my waitress bring over a half dozen Kamata Bay Oysters sitting in an ice bath. "Red wine with Oysters?" some guy asked me sitting to my left. "Yeah" I replied rather sarcastically as I downed a Katama and washed it with a sip of beautiful pinot noir from Napa. "It's not so bad ya know" I continued.
Seared tuna with tarbais beans, swiss chard, Meyer lemon salsa was good but slightly dry and overdone. fried ricotta Beignets wth my own bowl of chocolate dipping sauce did me in with a glass of sparkling prosecco. The Beignets were good, not great. They didn't have a lot of flavor but the presentation was great.
Service was ... well, lacking. The hostess practically served me as the waitstaff scurried around the room. It was never clear who my server was. Barbara would have not been pleased with the service on this night. I didn't even see a manager around the entire evening to help expedite service. I would go again for sure though. Pinot Noir anyone?
People thought this was:
Funny (1)
I can't possibly say enough nice things about this place.
Their lobster roll is the best in the world...or at the very least Mass. As a novice oyster eater I was intimidated by the selection, but the servers are awesome and never fail to suggest a few delicious choices.
The staff are always friendly and despite the smallish nature of the place I've never had to wait too long for a seat. I'd suggest sitting at the bar, where the servers are attentive and the view of the chef doing his thing enhances the overall experience.
I moved to the South End more than six months ago and ever since I moved, I've wanted to try this place. After a failed attempt this summer when we arrived sans reservations and were told the wait was over an hour, we finally got a chance to go back this weekend.
Ambiance wise, I have to say I was much more impressed with what I saw over the summer, even though I didn't have a chance to taste the food. People were hanging out outside and it was more relaxed. The restaurant is quite small so going with a larger group is not an option.
We were sat at a private table in the back and the table was quite awkward because I felt like we were practically infringing on the couple next to us (who by my judgement were on the worst first date EVER). So on to the oysters. Of the dozen or so oysters listed on the menu, we ordered about six varieties and were told that they were out of two of the ones we ordered. Uhhh..what? Your claim to fame is oysters. How do you run out of oysters??? Its in your freaking name! We ordered others and enjoyed them very much but I have to say they weren't remarkable (no better than Legal Seafoods). We also ordered calamari which was average and a side of french fries, which were to die for. For desert, I ordered the chocolate mousse desert and was again told that they were out. So disappointing.
I want to give this place four stars because they had Duvel on their menu but it will be 3 stars for this average dinner. Not sure I'll be going back.
Walking into this basement establishment I didn't know what to expect in terms of decor. Looking threw the windows as you walk by it doesn't seem like much. I was pleasantly surprised with the contemporary decor, dim lighting, and cozy space. Was a bit confused since we couldn't find the hostess stand, which turned out to be at the other end of the floor. When I called for reservations the hostess asked if we had a preference for inside or patio (i couldn't imagine where in the world that patio would be in this tight South End space). Passing threw the door in the back, leading to a very pleasant glass covered entrance to the below street level patio that's surrounded by a stone wall on all sides.
Having a fairly large oyster selection and myself not being a oyster connoisseur, the waitress was very helpful in describing what the different oysters where. When we got our selection of 5 different types of oysters we also got a little card telling us which oysters were which. This turned into an oyster tasting session, learning what kind of oysters come from what part of the country. Some are saltier then others, some larger, some smaller, creamer, clearer. I never expected to get such a nice lesson going out to dinner.
I do have to say that this was the most pleasant part of the dinner and I would definitely come here any day if not for the dinner then for the oyster experience for sure!
The entrees themselves where all good, but very small portions. It was enough for me, but others in my party were left desiring more. My tuna was cooked perfectly and very interestingly seasoned with an olive sauce (this took me a minute to figure out). I haven't seen this combo before but if you like olives and tuna then it's definitely worth a try. Others seemed to be happy with their entree choices, but our thoughts kept coming back to our delicious oyster experience.
The prices are a little high, but over all a good experience and a convenient location since once you're done with dinner you can jet across the street to Beehive or down the street to 28 Degrees for cocktails. Although if you're valeting tell the nice boy that you're going across the street since apparently it's cheaper then when you're going to B & G oysters.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Cool (1)
Some of the best oysters in Boston. I was extremely impressed with the selection, they had a lot of west coast offerings which you do not see that often. A little pricey but its expected for Tremont st. Atmosphere is great but the waitstaff is stuck up. I went with a few people early on a Saturday just to kill time before we went to the Beehive, and for some reason the host was not happy. The waiter clearly did not work for his tip, with his service being a bit abrasive and did not care that we ordered a few oysters and some beers. Overall I would go back because the food was impressive.
I am very anti-fancy restaurant pants normally but this place is great. My gf introduced me to this place as it was her favorite. I'm not a raw oyster bar fan but it actually made me a semi fan of raw oysters. also the clam chowder here (my other main culinary love besides indian food) was ridonkulously good. As good if not better than Legal's.
People thought this was:
Cool (1)
This review covers two restaurants, namely B&G Oysters and Neptune Oysters, and only one dish at each of these restaurants, namely their lobster rolls. Why, my dear friends, would I go to these two places with the sole purpose of trying out their respective takes on this classic New England dish? Because it's a crap-load of lobster on a bun... that's why.
With that said, the styles of these two lobster rolls are completely different: warm and buttery vs. cold and mayonnaise-y. Obviously, the cold version is the "classic" lobster roll, and there has been a plethora of posts about how a warm roll is akin to going to the Democratic National Convention and proclaiming that George Bush Jr. is the best president ever. I have never been a traditionalist, so I am reviewing these dishes for what they are.
First the similarities:
1. You get a lot of lobster... not just enough to fill the bun, but enough to REQUIRE eating a good number of fork-fulls before picking the damn thing up and trying to take a bite out of it. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way, and ended up spilling about a tail's-worth of lobster meat onto my plate when I tried to take a bite from the get-go.
2. Each goes really well with a beer, preferably something that can stand up to the natural butteriness of the lobster meat. I suppose you could get a nice acidic white, but a nice New England draught (Geary's Winter Ale at Neptune and Tremont Ale at B&G) seemed like the perfect accompaniment to me.
Differences:
1. B&G: cold lobster in a light aioli with lemon and chives sprinkled on top. The lemon gave the dish the perfect amount of acid to balance the lobster. Not really mayonnaise-y at all. Lobster chunks broken up to just the right size so when you take a bite out of the roll, you don't have to chew through a piece of lobster or get an overly large piece in your mouth.
2. Neptune: warm lobster in butter on a toasted brioche bun. The warmth allowed me to fully enjoy all the natural (and added) butteriness of the lobster. Often times large chunks of lobster that were obviously crab or tail meat. While a bit harder to eat, the large chunks gave me the impression that there was some dude in the back who cracked open a fresh lobster, chopped it up a bit, put it in the bun and splash some butter on it.
The service in each place was great. The decor was a bit different, with Neptune sporting marble tables and an old-school oyster bar feel, while B&G had a more modern touch with a nice open kitchen in the middle of the restaurant where you can watch them do their magic.
Both of these places are must-go's, even if you only like lobster a wee little bit. I'll be back next time I'm in town, but I think I'll bring some cholesterol-lower medications just in case...
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Stopped in for dinner on a Monday night with a friend. The place was hoppin!
Had 6 awesome fresh oysters, mixed...Wellfleets, little creek and some other variety from Washington state. The best part came next: seared scallop special with some sort of honey soy reduction, topped with a mix of red grapefruit, shaved fennel, snow peas cut on the bias, sea salt, purple bean sprouts (?) and a few other beautiful leafy toppings that I couldn't identify. Perfectly cooked, perfectly presented.
The pinot gris from Alsace was also very good.
B&G was a bit pricey, but a real taste adventure all around.
They aren't open every day. Check out the website for more information.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Cool (1)
Just had lunch there for first time. Had restaurant week lunch menu. Amazing. Salmon croquette on bed of watercress and pea compote, lobster bisque and a panna cotta to kill for. Wow.
Also tried oysters: Kukamotos. Why did I resist eating oysters for so long.
So delicious and fresh. Friendly staff, efficient small place. definately try reserving or eat at the bar.
We did and it was fun.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
I stopped in for a beer and some oysters before meeting friends, and... I will chime in on the 'unfriendly' vibe... yes, I was properly greeted at both the door and the bar, but since it was early, the staff were all busy chatting among themselves or to their friends... I don't mind being left alone... but, its just the sense I got that it was a slow time, and they'd all rather chat with each other than the customers. Oysters were fine - better be for $2.25 apiece.
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Funny (1)
Cool (1)
Lobster BLT. Our server also gave us some great recommendation for oysters, but that BLT... the best. Food took kind of forever to come out though.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
HOLY SHIT!!!! This place is orgasmic! Everything from the wine list to the choice in oysters to the LOBSTER ROLL-my mouth is literally watering.
Such an increduble space-a total shellfish lover's wet dream and damn, it's dynamite. I love the fact that they have a sushi like seating so you can watch the prep. AWESOME! 2 or3 people are fine at the bar, but they have great tables for larger groups and outdoor seating. HEAVEN! If I had the $$$$$ I would LIVE there.
Simply the best place for oysters.
I have no idea why I haven't reviewed this place before - it's pretty remarkable - when I was there with a friend the other day, I was reminded how remarkable it was.
...so, why is it so remarkable? (I got to use that word 3 times in 2 sentences. Excellent.)... It's so remarkable (4 times) because Boston is a seaport town, and there's like...what...6 restaurants that acknowledge that simple fact, and maybe only 3 that do it right. B&G does it right. The oysters are local, the bar is excellent, the rest of the meals are great, and the outside seating (also ridiculously rare for Boston) is perfect. They also have an excellent wine list...so, a bottle of Rose and 2 dozen of the little fellas was a nice way to spend a hot & humid Boston afternoon...
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
While I've only had selections of oysters and the lobster BLT here, either of these items alone more than warrant a five star rating.
Their oyster selection is very impressive, with approximately 20 different types of oysters to choose from. As for the lobster BLT, let go now of any fears you might have about the amount of actual lobster meat you'll get. The sandwich is loaded, and delicious.
Also, given the small size of the restaurant, your food arrives very quickly.
As for the actual atmosphere of the place: it's small, cozy and comfortable. If you can manage to get the seat/bench in the corner by the window in the early afternoon (any season but summer here folks... might be hot), you get a comfortable chair, the sun on your back, and great food in front. Trifecta baby.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
Stop number 1 on our Boston tour. We came late on Saturday afternoon. They delivered what we were craving - succulent, fresh oysters on the half-shell. Our server was knowledgeable and helped guide us to the right choices.
The seared tuna with fennel was also great - very good tuna, well seared on the outside and rare inside with a nice shaved fennel to accompany.
Wine list was a bit expensive for the atmosphere. Good choices, but spendy. Service was ok - our server seemed to have a lot going on and could have been a bit more attentive. Five stars with better service and a better priced wine list.
A friend and I actually stumbled upon B&G one afternoon while strolling through the South End. We suddenly had a craving for beer and oysters. The restaurant was very quaint and cozy. We sat at the bar which led us to great service. The oysters were fresh and delicious!
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
YAY! FISH! mmmm. this place is FISHTASTIC! The decor is wonderful, very cozy setting. Our server was amazing. Super nice and when asked to help us pick out a wine, she picked the absolute perfect bottle. As for the food... amazing. so fresh and delicious. The lobster rolls are near perfection, with lots of tender meat and just the perfect amount of dressing. amazing. DELICIOUS... I mean DEFISHIOUS! I brought some good friends from out of town here and it was loved by all. Great dining expeirience. YAAAAAY!
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
Funny (1)
I had only eaten oysters with champagne here before last night. I LOVE how small, and clean the room is, the open kitchen. We had a wonderful Hamachi appetizer and excellent, perfectly cooked scallops. Sure, it's a little pricey, but most seafood is.
My main complaint, is that there was pancetta in the scallops that wasn't listed on the menu. I don't eat land beasts! But, I just pushed aside and dealed with it, because it was really, really tasty. I liked the combination of spring peas and fall squash on the set. It just drives me nuts when stuff appears on your plate that you don't eat or are allergic to.
Service was quick, professional, and friendly. I will definitely be back!
People thought this was:
Useful (2)
One sunny Sunday afternoon I had a craving for a lobster roll and I decided that it was time to check out Barbara's other restaurant. I'm soooo glad we did. The place is super cute - very small - very modern - great environment. We ordered up the Maine Lobster Rolls at $26 a piece (i think) and they came out pretty quickly. My god were they good. They weren't like most other lobster rolls containing just two ingredients - lobster and mayo - these had a sweet taste to it with unique spices. It came with a side of yummy cole slaw, pickles, and a basket of fries that were sooo addictive. Very filling lunch. So, with two lobster rolls, two glasses of wine, and the tip, the lunch was $100. I'd go back today if I could.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
Great seafood, waitstaff, music...what else can I say? Been here several times during this past year and have yet been disappointed. The food is second to none. Lobster BLT, lobster bisque and the fresh oysters (Duxbury) are all to die for. The wine list is extensive and the waitstaff are extremely well informed with what is offered on the entire menu. Impressive!
My wife and I happened to arrive a couple of weeks ago on a Thursday night, sat at the bar and witnessed Chef owner Barbara Lynch working the grill. What struck the two of us is how she had the pulse of not only the food that was being prepared but what was being enjoyed by her customers. Being attentive to return plates that may have not been completely finished. She was on her game in a big way.
The prices are steep but the overall experience is well worth the money.
The oysters were incredible, and the tuna steak was pretty tasty too.
Downsides: Not a full bar. Pretty small, so you should call ahead. It gets expensive quick, so know that you are dropping a nice chunk of change before you go... that said, the food was very good and I didn't feel the prices were way out of line.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
Go there on a summer night and seat out on the patio. The food is good, sometimes excellent. The oysters are nicely done. The wine list is fantastic and the staff is well-informed and friendly.
People thought this was:
Useful (1)
Cool (1)
If you're thinking of trying this place here's the need to know info:
decor: (24/30)
Intimate and stylish dcor; The dining space is small (keep your dinner party to less than 4), nice lighting, and great outdoor seating (which there doesn't seem to be a lot of in Boston).
food: (23/30)
The menu combines some "high end picnic food" (e.g., lobster roll, lobster BLT, etc.) along with some more sophisticated entrees. While the food was very good, the plates are small and overpriced. The oyster selection is pretty good; though I think if you want to eat just oysters, you could probably find it at a more modest restaurant. (For caffeine junkies: they don't have espresso drinks, but the post-meal cup of coffee was above average).
service: (23/30)
Given my perception of the scale of the restaurant (which was upscale-casual) the service is about what I expected. The wine presentation was done well, and the wait staff seemed to know their stuff.
Cost: app + glass of wine + entre + coffee + tip ~= $50 per/person
People thought this was:
Useful (1)