Classic London

The well known and quintessential sights of the city likely need no explanation. From Big Ben and Parliament to Buckingham Palace and Queen Victoria Memorial; we came, we saw, we photographed. We also has a blast drinking Pimm's Cup, European beers and mulled wine. And cliche as it may be, I was still excited to devour the classic British meal of fish-n-chips and mushy peas. The White Hart, a cozy pub in Liverpool Square satisfied the craving, although I have a feeling you could wander into almost any pub in the city and they would do the same.

The fillet of hake was ale battered and deep fried to crispy, flaky perfection and served with a side of mushy peas that were a lot more appetizing than the name seems to imply. A cup of tartar sauce was also on hand for dipping. Additionally, our first mugs of mulled wine did not disappoint. They were warm and soothing with sugar and spice infusions of cinnamon, clove and nutmeg.

The royal sights and regal buildings are matched with an energetic spirit and unique embrace. On the whole, classic elegance is balanced with staple comforts. It's a European city distinctly different than any I've ever traveled and it absolutely holds a special place.

Lunch at Russell House Tavern

Believe it or not, I haven't been blogging as much! It might still seems as though I am, but I've been posting 2 to 3 times a week lately as opposed to a whopping 4 to 5. I've skipped out on a lot of potential restaurant reviews; at home I haven't felt much like writing (more like decorating our tree and wrapping Christmas presents!) and when I'm out I haven't always been lugging my camera with me. Oh well. That's what the iPhone camera (and Instagram app) comes in handy for. Anyways, today I'm back with a fun restaurant post!

A solid option for lunching in Cambridge is at Russell House Tavern, this Harvard Square gastropub operated by The Grafton Group (Temple Bar, Grafton Street, Redline) opened a over a year ago with much fanfare, and I still had yet to make my way in. Along with my Mom and sister, we were famished and in serious need of some quality grub to appease our holiday shopping induced appetites. My sister had previously been in for dinner and drinks, and was happy to return to check out the lunch menu. I was excited to finally pay them a visit in general.

We wandered in, shopping bags in tow, down a wide alley/brick patio space off of bustling JFK Street. Crossed electrical wires with exposed light bulbs dangling overhead added a touch of ambiance before we even set foot inside. A hostess greeted us right away at the upstairs entrance (where a smaller bar area resides) and we made our way down a wide black staircase done up in evergreen boughs and white lights to the sprawling, polished basement space. Here, another hostess warmly welcomed and ushered us to a table just as quickly, offering to take our coats along the way. Our amicable waiter met us with waters once we settled in, and impressed us with his knowledge of the menu and swift service for the duration.

I started with a Bloody Mary, this classic brunch standby over a formidable sounding craft cocktail was chosen more out of necessity! (Holiday Stroll + Delux + Beehive = hungover.) Our waiter mentioned that the bartender used to run the cocktail program at Drink - so I didn't doubt his prowess in the mixology department. I decided to forgo the classic BM for the Maria Basilico ($10) (the MB!) made with Basil Infused Sobieski Vodka, Meletti Amaro, RHT Bloody Mix and a cucumber garnish. If you were looking for the typically bold and spicy, this one is not for you. The Meletti Amaro, which is a dry tawny liqueur combining anise and saffron added sweet and herbaceous notes which tempered the typically spicy mix. I appreciated this variation on a classic, it's definitely fun when bartenders try new things and take some risks. We started by slurping two oysters each from the raw bar, it was East coast all the way with local briny Island Creeks ($2.50) for my Mom and sister, while I opted for one of those and one of the West coast varietal, a plump, ultra clean flavored Kushi ($2.50). The oysters came with a duo of equally appeasing sweet pickle mignonette and Old Bay cocktail sauce.

My sister and I both chose from the array of sandwiches, accompanying them are your choice of fries, greens, or half portions of each. Pleasantly surprised by this option, once we got our plates we noted the halved french fry and salad portions could have easily been a full serving! The greens were fresh and lightly dressed, the brown crispy fries nicely seasoned and served with ketchup and a really tasty garlic infused mayo.
Leah enjoyed her Grilled Chicken Sandwich ($11) with melted talleggio, pickled red onions, local tomatoes and arugula while I chose the Hickory Smoked Pork Loin Sandwich ($11) with melted sharp cheddar, crispy onions, sweet apples and a ginger maple aioli. This sandwich was flawless in every way, exploding with comforting flavors and piled high with well executed ingredients, which still managed to stay nicely contained by the soft bread. The thinly sliced pork, tender and juicy took to the crispy onions like bread to butter while the red apples added contrast, imparting the perfect touch of sweetness. The ginger maple aioli was inventive and delicious, and the melted sharp cheddar played its part to seal the deal.

The Dirty Caesar ($8) with Chicken ($5) ordered by my Mom proved a well rounded salad. Spicy anchovy croutons were a major highlight laced within a nicely dressed bed of crisp lettuce and grilled chicken strips.

Executive Chef Michael Scelfo's locally sourced and seasonally focused American fare is crowd pleasingly classic with a contemporary edge. The reputation that precedes this trendy tavern is well justified, with a warm welcoming staff and a clean, comfortable space; for lunch this afternoon I was nothing short of impressed.

The Latest from Saus: Frikandel

I am pretty positive my love for Saus has not gone unnoticed, but allow me to remind you just how much this Belgian street food cafe has won my affections with their authentic frites, leige waffles and poutine.

{Exhibit 1, Exhibit 2, Exhibit 3}

The was no doubting that the latest addition to their menu - a deep fried Dutch burger-sausage served on a grilled bun called Frikandel would impress with a similar level of authenticity and deliciousness.This 'sandwich' differs from the traditional version eaten on the streets of The Netherlands, Belguim and Northern France because it uses a homemade blend of ground beef, pork and spices as opposed to a processed meat mixture. In a blogger taste test / feedback forum last Monday evening, the Frikandel ($6.95) was an immediate hit. We were lucky enough to sample all four styles offered, compliments of the owners. It was a Frickandellen feast! Here is a preview of what to expect next time you stroll (or stumble) into this Faneuil Hall mainstay. The most traditional among the bunch is the Speciaal Frikandel. The toasted bun gets rubbed with house made mayo and the sausage is topped with chopped onions, more mayo and curry ketchup saus. The Spicy Frickandel is layered with jalepeno peppers and then drizzled with ole chipotle saus for a double dose of spice. Ole chipotle is one of my favorite signature sauces so it was no surprise I adored this version of frikandel. Overall it was generously spicy, not unbearably so. Loaded up with another beloved ingredient is the Cheesy Frikandel. This one layers on the cheddar cheese and coats the sausage completely in cheddar Duvel saus. Last up is the Burger-style Frikandel which pops with flavor from chopped onions, chopped pickles and the latest kitchen concoction - Andalouse Saus. Andalouse is an onion, red and green pepper, lemon and tomato paste infused mayo. I though the juicy pickles in this version were a welcome contrast. We were also treated to a side of frites with additional Andalouse for dipping and following the meal, a leige waffle and one of every sweet saus (salted caramel, lemon cream, berry berry and nutella) for dessert! Providing more sustenance to the menu at the urging of the public is a dutch sausage-snack that some say is better than the original. Next time you venture in to get your french fry and waffle fix, be sure and add a Frikandel to your order!

Summer Lunch Series Part 7: Anthony's Pier 4

A historical splurge worthy seafood institution that has long capitalized on Boston's prime waterfront views is Anthony's Pier 4. The original owner, Anthony Athanas, immigrated to the United States from Albania with his parents in 1916 at the age five. Dedicated and hardworking, Athanas rose the ranks to eventually personify the American Dream, opening a number of successful restaurants before his flagship Boston establishment came to fruition in 1963.Immediate success and praise was followed by years of hosting the likes of US Presidents, Government heads, athletes, entertainers and more; as displayed proudly by a collage of photographs covering the walls in the large entrance way. Athanas passed away in 2005 and today the restaurant is owned and operated by his four sons.Considering the fact that the South Boston Waterfront is now home to a number of modern steakhouses, seafood restaurants and others, including big name franchises or local expansions, I think it is important to embrace the history associated with Anthony's and the success it has seen in this area for decades. For all the more recent additions to Fan Pier and Liberty Wharf that have been met with tremendous praise, Anthony's deserves an equal dose of my affections. The decor embodies a time in history where Rum Rooms existed, their very own displaying weathered furniture and dusty floors. The expansive dining room is filled with Captain's chairs crafted of sturdy wood and leather and an expanse of thick patterned carpet still remains underfoot.An open air lobster tank greets you upon arrival and the bar is crafted to form the likes of old schooner. Anthony's certainly has a distinguished look and feel whether it translates as older generation elegance or nautical kitsch. I think that it is a welcome combination of both.And lets not forget the panoramic harbor front views. No matter the buildings atmosphere, the views remain timeless.Adam and I started off with a round of draft beers, poured in appropriately labeled pint glasses (I love when restaurants pay attention to these small details) a Harpoon IPA ($4.95) for him and a Sam Summer ($4.95) for her.
A basket of fresh Popovers and slabs of soft butter were delivered right after we placed our orders. Breaking into the hollow muffin shaped roll, the swelled batter in addition to releasing piping hot steam, was light, eggy and moist on the inside and delicately crunchy on the outside. Popovers are certainly a highlight of the experience here.

We continued our lunch with 1/2 dozen Oysters ($14.95). Last Friday just so happened to be National Oyster Day so was it fitting to enjoy a freshly shucked batch of bivalves. However, I would have been slurping these down regardless of the declared "food holiday".Our platter consisted of three Norwalk Bluepoint Oysters from Long Island Sound, Connecticut and three Penn Cove Oysters from Samish Bay, Puget Sound, Washington. Adam preferred the Penn Cove which were firmer with a bright brininess and cucumber finish. I liked the Norwalk Bluepoint best, they had a moderate saltiness with a sweet gentle finish.

If last Friday wasn't the epitome of the perfect summer lunch, I don't know what is.Behold the beauty that is my bucket of Ipswich Fried Clams ($19.95). Once I saw this special listed on the chalk board just outside the dining room entrance, I was pretty much sold.

Batter dipped and deep fried, this iconic New England delicacy is prepared with whole soft shell clams, the bellies left intact to impart a richer flavor. Anthony's served an impeccable, large proportioned batch alongside thick creamy and tangy tartar sauce, lightly dressed coleslaw and your standard cut french fries. Unfortunately, the fries were lackluster. Adam said they were great as he chowed down on the portion that came with his Lobster Roll ($19.95), but I felt they were too soft, lots of potato and not enough fry. By the way, he loved his lobster roll. I commented that it looked heavy on the mayo but he was quick to correct that this was not the case. Those were some extremely large chunks of fresh claw meat. (And the camera lens became foggy as I reached across to get that shot - from the steam rising off my clams!)

Service was smooth and well paced. Our waiter, dressed head to toe in a pressed sailors uniform was friendly and efficient. All the details were attended to without us having to ask. Waters were refilled and plates were cleared promptly. Tabasco and horseradish were delivered with the oysters and ketchup with the meals upon arrival. Lunch today was mostly comped, the lovely Amelia Mango of the company responsible for Anthony's website development hooked me up with a $50 gift card awhile back. I was under no obligation to review the restaurant, however I can't say I would have been persuaded to visit otherwise! (Simply wasn't on my radar.) Adam and I were so glad we did though, especially with the recent announcement of its impending closure.*We enjoyed a leisurely harbor front stroll from the North End and back, stopping afterwards for a visit to the neighboring Institute of Contemporary Art where the free Friday admission (one time only on that day) persuaded us in. But not before a goofy photo shoot with the parking lot locomotive...Yes, all four of these were necessary.

*I read yesterday on Boston Restaurant Talk that Anthony's is closing its doors because the space it occupies is slated for replacement by a one acre public park. There is potential of it re-opening in a nearby location on the property. Construction for the park won't begin until Spring 2012 so it looks like you still have time to visit this Boston landmark before it no longer remains in its original form! For additional details about the construction scheduled to transform the Seaport District's Pier 4 check out this Boston Globe article.*