Funky/Fun Meal in Boston

[chadradchad]

Minneapolis Chowhound coming to Boston this weekend and have been way stressed out finding the perfect spot. I am going to be with a group of 6-7, and I am looking for a nice place ($50-75 per person) in Boston. We are staying at the Omni Parkerhouse, and would like somewhere that isn't too far to walk or cab/T. There will be a vegetarian in the group. I want to make sure we don't end up in some tourist spot. We love funky/eclectic. I was thinking Mama Maria's or Prezza. Any suggestions?

[pollystyrene]

I like the Upstairs at the Square idea (the Monday Club room). Also, Chez Henri, The Helmand (especially great for the vegetarian), or the B-Side Lounge. All of these are in Cambridge, though, so would require a cab ride.

You can't do better than Prezza or Mamma Maria for food, and neither is snooty or stuffy. I always have plenty of fun at both, but I wouldn't consider them funky or eclectic.

[chadradchad]

We went to Mama Maria's and had a nice meal. It was fun to see it bumping so late at night. It was a little more expensive than it should be. The vegetarian was not impressed with his options. Thanks for the help Boston!

[pollystyrene]

Glad you liked it. There is only the one vegetarian option for entrees: the mushroom ravioli. I think it's sublime, though. Even if I became a carnivore again, I'd find it hard not to order that dish. Did your vegetarian like it?

[chadradchad]

How about The Dish? Would we be waiting a long time if a party of 5 strolled in at around 8? The menu looks like it is in our price range..with pleny of options.

[Rickys9]

Dish is a great spot...but a very small restaurant.

[Rickys9]

I agree Prezza is a bit pricey and not even close to funky. Try heading over to the South End - lots of great spots over there. I would suggest Tremont 647 or 28 Degrees...

Another great spot if you plan to head over to Cambridge is Cuchi Cuchi in central square. Yummy food and very unique decor...

[chadradchad]

I looked at Prezza and it looks a little $$, it also looks a little snooty. Upstairs on the Square and the Blue Room looks pretty funky. Anything else that is yummy and fun at the same time?

[lissy]

Prezza is certainly not cheap but I've never found it to be snooty.

[Northender]

It might be a little pricey but it is certainly not snooty. A very lively place. Appetizers and entrees are quite large and easy to share if you want to keep costs down. Mamma Maria is just as pricey and while not snooty, a little more formal and pretty sedate.

Blue Room is a great choice although you would need to cab or T over to Cambridge and East Coast Grill is a blast too.

[heathermb]

The Monday Club Bar at Upstairs on the Square might fit your bill but I think that if you dine "Upstairs" you'll surpass your budget of $50 - $75pp.

I love MCB and their burger is now one of my favorites.

[Blumie]

East Coast Grill is a short ride (3 stops) on the red line, followed by a 3/4 mile cab ride or walk. Definitely fits the bill for fun and funky (and, for the most part, very popular on this board). And unless you're going on a Fri or Sat night, they will accept a reservation for a group your size.

[lissy]

Prezza is a great option especially for a group your size since they take reservations. Their polenta is to die for. For a bit more of an eclectic menu, you might try Oleana which will be a 10-15 minute cab ride from your hotel.