Unadventurous Mother in Town

[yourwaitress]

My mom is coming to town on Wednesday, and I don't really have a clue where to take her for dinner. She is an unadventurous midwesterner, but I'm definitely not. She's not looking to be impressed, but I'd like to take her somewhere somewhat nice with good food. (Price isn't so much an issue with me, but since she's used to the midwest prices, cheaper would be good just so she doesn't feel awkward/guilty ordering "expensive" items.)

Thanks!

[yourwaitress]

Wow! Thank all of you so much for your posts and great ideas! Mom's going to be happy. :o)

[RDR]

Let us know how it turns out!

[threedogs]

I haven't been there yet, AND it's not in Boston, but from reading the posts here, I'd say that Zalek's in Wakefield may be something she'd enjoy. People have written that the food is consistently good, with, I believe, generous portions. (Can't wait to try it, myself, too..)

I used to take my mom to Anthony's in Arlington (not Anthony's Pier 4), but that was many years ago - say, ten years ago. Back then, it was a favorite of hers, and many other older folks. I think it was because it was sort of homey - plus, she liked the fish there, of course.

[pollystyrene]

Zalek's is more of an everyday, takeout place. Plus, as you said, it's way out of town.

[bear]

threedogs, as pollystyrene says, Zalek's is a good, cheap eats, byob place, not really a night out experience.

[Chris VR]

My unadventurous mother loved Anthony's Pier 4. The view and the popovers were the things she still talks about. The food was fine, nothing spectacular but we kept it simple (broiled seafood.) I've read varying reports here of recent experiences. Although this is a place Chowhounds love to hate, I think it does have a killer location and if the seafood is still done fine, then it's worth a visit. It's a bit pricey, but really, pretty much any restaurant in Boston is going to give Midwest Mom price shock, so, in for a penny, in for a pound.

[TheWizard]

You may not be aware, but Anthony himself croaked a few years back http://www.boston.com/news/local/mass...
So at this point in time, I think they may be just milking the name for what they can get, but don't take my word for it...

[hotoynoodle]

his son still runs it. the view is spectacular.

[cmd]

I like the Antico Forno and 75 Chestnut suggestions, and would also add Petit Robert in Kenmore (haven't tried the one in the SE). Good roast chicken/steak frites/etc., plus some more adventurous items for you. And the price is right--no entree is more than $20 (and most are more like $16-$17).

[BBHound]

I like PRB and second that suggestion. Be aware, however, that the Sox play at home Wednesday evening. The restaurant will be OK once the game starts (7:05) but there will not be any place to park.

-----
Petit Robert Bistro
468 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215

[mcel215]

I was at Antico Forno, at the tail end of the Fisherman's Feast (what was I thinking?), and after the Red Sox game (another duh), and they took and honored my reservation.

It is one of the places I tend to go when in the No. End. The little parking lot on Wiget St., is very convenient as well.

[teezeetoo]

i know this board isn't fond of Legals but your mom can get something new englandy (fish, fried clams, lobster) good onion strings, and it will be a bit expensive but not "midwestern."

[Dr.Jimbob]

I think a cheap North End place is an outstanding suggestion -- it's close enough to everyday stuff for the unadventurous, but you can get something funky if you want. Though I guess she'll need to not be allergic to garlic.

Redbones would be another thought -- yes, I know, the decor is weird, yes I know, they don't have the best 'Q in the planet, but on a weeknight it won't be hideously busy and the waitstaff are quite friendly at said times, roasted meats and lovely garlic mashed strike me as fairly conventional, and their roast chicken is one of the best that I've had in Greater Boston (not the Jamaican jerk, just the straight up stuff, unbelievably tender and juicy). <http://www.redbones.com/dinner.html> to inspect menu and prices.

75 Chestnut also comes to mind. Their menu style is generally to take something recognizable and everyday, like a hamburger or clam chowder or a tossed salad, and to add one or two little tweaks that add flavor and make it more interesting. One of the better burgers and clam chowders in town too. <http://www.75chestnut.com/menu-dining...> to see if the menu and prices are too outlandish or not.

Oh, yes, and then there's East Ocean City and the live, still-wriggling shrimp ... =8^)

[pollystyrene]

I think Antico Forno is a great place for this type of situation: frugal, unadventurous out-of-towners who you'd still like to show a good time, while having one yourself. Your mother should enjoy the North End, brick oven Italian food is not adventurous, the price isn't too steep, the atmosphere isn't too fancy, and I've never known anyone to not be pleased with the food at Antico Forno. Plus, you can stop at Mike's or Modern afterward if she likes sweets.

[mcel215]

If you go to Antico Forno, the clams, mussel dish in parchment is so amazing!

And I second the recommendation for this place, everything is so good.

[hotoynoodle]

i think the north end is a great suggestion too, and i'll chime in with the original il panino on parmenter st. a patio for people watching and very approachable food with moderate prices.