East Coast Grill Lights the Fire

The only food consumed today was when I ate brunch at 11:00 am. It is 8:30 pm as I begin this post and I am just now starting to hear my stomach growl. East Coast Grill gives a whole new meaning to Sunday brunch. I am quite confident the 24 Boston Bloggers who joined me in the private bamboo walled back room lined with a bright teal booth and huge tiki masks would agree. The netted ceiling, tropical volcano mural and seashell lights also set the scene as bloggers trickle in. (Now that I think about it, this spot is more reminiscent of the casual Island joints I frequented on vacation rather than a typical trendy Boston restaurant.) East Coast Grill's staff and kitchen stuffed us, spoiled us, and brought the spice with four incredibly unique appetizers and one intense entree of our choice all at a fixed price of $25 including tax and tip! The family style appetizers were served one at a time. I appreciated the pacing which allowed ample time for photographs! And photographs I took. First up Fried Sweet Plantains with Queso Fresco and Banana - Guava Ketchup. My first time trying plantains, the sweet moist banana relative has a very similar flavor, as you might expect. The fried exterior adds firmness and crunch, proving an excellent dish to kick off the meal.
Next up Sweet Potato Fries with House Inner Beauty Hot Sauce. Woo...that Inner Beauty Hot Sauce is something else. A fantastic heat gives big flavors to the thick cut crispy sweet potato fries as well as the tender smoked pork and mushy bananas in the
Banana Rellena (Muy Caliente!)....Smoked Pork Stuffed Bananas. The pickled jalapenos on the side kicked up the heat another notch. A notable variety of textures with flavors lending smokey, sweet and spicy prove this appetizer to be the true standout. Monteray Jack Grits with Molasses Glazed Grilled Banana, Pina, Jalapenos, Toasted Pecans & Crispy Smoked Bacon.I can't recall a time that I ever ate grits. These were creamy and cheesy, warm and comforting, enhanced by all that sat within them, especially the smokey bacon. The ECG offered a choice of the following three entrees:The entrees roll in.
The Smoked Pork Tostada (above) received rave reviews around the table.
I chose the Yucatan Breakfast Platter. Good old fashioned cheesy scrambled eggs over a pool of salsa roja, Fluffy white rice and black beans,more of those incredible sweet fried plantains, along with a mango-pepper-hearts of palm salad,
and a warm flour tortilla. So many elements on one plate made for a fun and filling meal.
Our waiter Arthur was a hoot. His quick whited humor and ability to tell a story to his guests without lingering was just as welcome as the company I dined with. His service flawless and execution of the many dishes impeccable. He (as well as other members of the wait-staff) were on point with water and coffee refills throughout the duration. His thank you speech at the end of brunch and kind gesture letting us know to call on them for whatever we might need in the future was thoughtful and appreciated.
Boston Brunchers - it was wonderful, as usual, to see all your smiling faces this morning. East Coast Grill - the whole 25 of us were lucky to have such a filling and delicious meal at your bustling, bright and friendly establishment. And Renee - thanks for organizing another flawless brunch, you rock!