Well, since J and I are residing in Newton Corner now, we've had a little time to check out the area. I'm happy to report that there are some great little spots to eat, drink, and be merry in and near that little square. If you live in Allston, Brighton, Newton, or Watertown - these little spots are worth checking out, and you might well find yourself going back regularly.
The first thing you should know about Newton Corner is that it's a giant roundabout/traffic circle/rotary (didn't want to offend anyone with a dialect) ;) that encircles a hotel. It's also and entrance and exit to the Pike so it's busy busy. It can get a little overwhelming if you don't know your way around, but once you've done it a time or two, it's a breeze. There is metered parking right in the square though, and you can almost always find a spot no problem. You can also take the bus - express buses 501, 502, 502, 504, 553 to name a few all stop in the area, as well as the local 57 (cheaper but takes longer). Most of them stop right in front of Uno's and it's a quick walk over to the first hot spot on my list: Buff's.
Buff's Pub is a little hole in the wall with great wings and good beer. They are cash only, but there's a BOA right next door - thank goodness. Buff's serves up bone in and boneless chicken wings with a variety of sauces - though Im partial to the classic buffalo and the hot teriyaki. They also have their own little namesake brew - Buff's Pale Ale that's pretty great. The rest of their menu is standard pub fare, nothing out of this world (that I've tried), but all good. They have a couple TVs but keep in mind that this is the only true pub/bar in the area so the locals pack in on game day. If you can hit this place up at an off hour, all the better since it's itty bitty, but definitely worth a try.
Next on my list is Amarin of Thailand. Located on Centre St, this little place serves up some pretty decent thai food. I called and placed my order from the express bus the other night, and my food was ready moments after I walked in the door. Their portions are good sized and their prices are reasonable. The staff was eager to assist me when I came in - haven't tried dining in yet, but my impression is that they would be accommodating and efficient - and both are things I like to see in a restaurant :)
Last but certainly not least is New Ginza - it's not actually in Newton Corner, but it's a quick drive (maybe 2-3 minutes) over to Galen St. (technically crossing into Watertown) for this great sushi place. They were pretty empty when J and I ventured in on a Tuesday night so we got a table right away. They have an extensive wine menu and a few bottled beers. Their sashimi entree, which included 15 pieces of very good quality fish, as well as soup and salad, goes for $28. They also offer a variety of maki roles ranging from $5-$10.
Everything we had was very good and worth the cost. My one criticism of the food would be the salad dressing - Im a big fan of the ginger dressing sushi places put on their salads, and I found this one to be a little "mayo-y". Nevertheless, we were pumped to find a great sushi place so close to our new digs.
I hope the new year brings you all new experiences with food, drink and fun!
Over and out,
Little B
The first thing you should know about Newton Corner is that it's a giant roundabout/traffic circle/rotary (didn't want to offend anyone with a dialect) ;) that encircles a hotel. It's also and entrance and exit to the Pike so it's busy busy. It can get a little overwhelming if you don't know your way around, but once you've done it a time or two, it's a breeze. There is metered parking right in the square though, and you can almost always find a spot no problem. You can also take the bus - express buses 501, 502, 502, 504, 553 to name a few all stop in the area, as well as the local 57 (cheaper but takes longer). Most of them stop right in front of Uno's and it's a quick walk over to the first hot spot on my list: Buff's.
Buff's Pub is a little hole in the wall with great wings and good beer. They are cash only, but there's a BOA right next door - thank goodness. Buff's serves up bone in and boneless chicken wings with a variety of sauces - though Im partial to the classic buffalo and the hot teriyaki. They also have their own little namesake brew - Buff's Pale Ale that's pretty great. The rest of their menu is standard pub fare, nothing out of this world (that I've tried), but all good. They have a couple TVs but keep in mind that this is the only true pub/bar in the area so the locals pack in on game day. If you can hit this place up at an off hour, all the better since it's itty bitty, but definitely worth a try.
Next on my list is Amarin of Thailand. Located on Centre St, this little place serves up some pretty decent thai food. I called and placed my order from the express bus the other night, and my food was ready moments after I walked in the door. Their portions are good sized and their prices are reasonable. The staff was eager to assist me when I came in - haven't tried dining in yet, but my impression is that they would be accommodating and efficient - and both are things I like to see in a restaurant :)
Last but certainly not least is New Ginza - it's not actually in Newton Corner, but it's a quick drive (maybe 2-3 minutes) over to Galen St. (technically crossing into Watertown) for this great sushi place. They were pretty empty when J and I ventured in on a Tuesday night so we got a table right away. They have an extensive wine menu and a few bottled beers. Their sashimi entree, which included 15 pieces of very good quality fish, as well as soup and salad, goes for $28. They also offer a variety of maki roles ranging from $5-$10.
Everything we had was very good and worth the cost. My one criticism of the food would be the salad dressing - Im a big fan of the ginger dressing sushi places put on their salads, and I found this one to be a little "mayo-y". Nevertheless, we were pumped to find a great sushi place so close to our new digs.I hope the new year brings you all new experiences with food, drink and fun!
Over and out,
Little B
