Green Street

Green Street’s appearance is low key and the people that pass by it can easily miss it if it wasn’t for one thing: you can overhear the buzz of intriguing conversations that can only be sparked by a great selection of beer. For me, it was the Double Aught Lager from Bear Republic. Yep, a light, crisp, hoppy pilsner made my night. And the food! Not too shabby, Green Street.

Pan Fried Corn Bread - $8

Starting off the bustling Saturday night was the Pan Fried Corn Bread. This dish has opened a “cornbread window” for me! Being from Boston, I have never had real southern cornbread. It’s dense, it’s chewy, moist and gritty- most importantly, it is savory and I don’t know if I can ever go back to the sweet stuff. To make it even tastier, on top of the corn bread was a mild, salty layer of melted feta cheese, and on top of that was spicy tomato jam. Oh my lawd, that corn bread was sweet, tangy, salty scrumptiousness. I would like another serving please?

Macaroni & Cheese - $17

Bacon Double Cheeseburger - $11

Pan Roasted Gianonne Chicken - $22

Although the service was excellent, the food came out unbearably slow which made my hopes high for a darn good dinner. When we finally received our entrees, I could tell from the smile on everyone’s faces that they just took a really satisfying bite. The best way to describe Green Street’s food is that they highlight the main ingredient in such a simplistic way that it makes you really appreciate the art of cooking without superfluous seasonings. A perfect example of this is the Pan Fried Gianonne Chicken. Recommended by the waiter, I was a bit disappointed when I first took a bite. Plain. Took another bite… tender and full of juices. Then came the dark meat section. All clouds part now and let that light shine down! I’ve forgotten what it’s like to eat something so beautifully cooked that it’s nice to be reminded again. The macaroni & cheese was delicious too. With thickly diced bacon, tomatoes, and aged Grafton Cheddar, it was full of light flavors (if that makes sense). I did not try the Bacon Double Cheeseburger, but my friend said it was on par with the other dishes- but a bit on the greasy side. Also, extra points that they make their own chips.

English Toffee Pudding Cake - $7

Ricotta & Meyer Lemon Cheesecake Triffle - $7

Lastly, the dessert… The subtle flavors of ricotta and light cheesecake came to life, thanks to the incorporation of thinly sliced lemon rinds. The triffle was good to experience, but was nothing compared to the English Toffee Pudding Cake. Candied walnuts, whipped cream, crunchy bits of toffee and toffee syrup were all lusciously delectable, but it did not take away from the main attraction- one of the best bread puddings I’ve tasted.

All in all, I enjoyed Green Street Grill, but do not see myself coming here unless I am in Cambridge. When in the area, I’ll be comforted knowing there is a kickass beer selection nearby, comfort foods cooked to perfection, and energetic, friendly service.

Converting me to Southern corn bread, Green Street, you are good.
Total Meal: ~$95.00
Servings: 4 people

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Blue Stove at Nordstrom

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Tucked away in Nordstrom of the Burlington Mall is a warmly lit tapas bar and a fabulous wine list. You can feel a comfortable orange glow walking through the elongated room where a bar nestles itself on the left and cozy booths burrow themselves on the right. It is not only a place for shoppers to relax, but also a great spot to share and engage in a variety of small plates with friends and family.

PS: It’s a good conversation starter for first dates too. You’re welcome!

Crispy Parmesan Polenta & Arugula Salad - $5.95

Sweet Potato Fries with Cilantro Lime Aïoli - $5.50

Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos - $7.75

Bacon Frisee Salad with Buttermilk & Truffle Dressing (special not listed on menu) - $7.95

Crispy & Spicy Dark Cherry Glazed Beef - $11.50

Salt & Pepper Calamari with Lemon Zest - $7.95

Risotto Croquettes with Serrano Ham & Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce - $5.95

Shrimp & Asparagus Tempura with Lemon Soy Dipping Sauce - $9.95

The diverse variety of tapas were set down at our table two at a time, and each and every one of them looked absolutely tantalizing. Three savory dishes stood out to me as being memorable, especially the Crispy & Spicy Dark Cherry Glazed Beef. Each bite burst with sharp, full, bold flavors as subtle heat trailed along until the end. Pieces of fatty beef and aromatic scallions greatly contributed to the dynamic flavors of the dish while creating a wonderful contrast of textures. I definitely recommend it! The Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos were also fantastic. The four mini tacos (ignore the one we ate) went by quickly. The flavors were bright and clean, while the colorful bell peppers and refreshing cilantro made it a lively dish. Lastly, the Risotto Croquettes were delicious. Fried to golden perfection, grains of risotto melded nicely with melted cheese and pieces of Serrano Ham. It laid on garlic tomato sauce that did not disappoint.

Chocolate Banana Creme Brulee - $6.25

Butterscotch Pot de Crème - $6.25

Lastly, it is safe to say the Butterscotch Pot de Crème is one of my favorite desserts. It is a creamy, buttery custard that satisfies your sweet tooth without being overwhelming. The portion is perfect too!

I find Blue Stove very refreshing. Its comfortable decor and engaging dining environment is shown with class and elegance- exactly what you should expect from Nordstrom. I look forward to coming here again and recommend others to experience this great restaurant like I have.

Oh, Blue Stove! How do you put so much flavor in such petite plates?

Total Meal: $90
Servings: 3 people

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