Summer 2009 openings and closings

[MC Slim JB]

Just confirmed with the Four Seasons Hotel Boston (to my utter shock) that Aujourd'hui will be closing at the end of June 2009, to be converted into private meeting space. Another casualty of the recession and the resultant crimping of expense-account entertaining, I presume. Has to be scary for local fine-dining operators -- or maybe a welcome shrinking of the competition.

I can remember when this was one of my two or three favorite occasion dining places in Boston, but it went through several chef changes, some of them not so much to my liking, and I got tired of gambling on $300/couple meals. Too bad, as I'd heard their current chef was quite talented. I think I preferred its fussy, flowery, old-ladyish look prior to the most recent makeover, too; it had a nice throwback feel to it. I did get to a couple of Friday early-evening Bubbly Bar events, which were fun. R.I.P. to what has to be considered a modern Boston dining institution.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[hiddenboston]

Two new restaurants opened today: The Mount Vernon at The Ship in Lynnfield, and Chipotle at the Fresh Pond Rotary in Cambridge.

I believe Aquitaine in Dedham may be opening within the next few days. I heard tomorrow is a possibility, but we'll see....

[Joanie]

Mt. Vernon as in the Somverille rest?
And where in Dedham would Aq be?

[JudyHP]

Aquitaine is supposed to be in the new Legacy Place complex in Dedham.

[hiddenboston]

Yup, Mount Vernon is opening a third location at The Ship in Lynnfield (their other location is on Route 1A in Revere).

[Illtryanything]

Went to chipolte at Alewife, the portion was definitely not as large at it was in Harvard Square!!

[hiddenboston]

Prana Cafe in Newton Corner is going to have their grand opening on Wednesday, August 26, according to their Web site. The place is going to feature raw foods, with organic, locally grown ingredients used. They will also have some non-raw options as well....

[galangatron]

a friend spotted a sign outside the old uncle pete's location on squire road in revere that read "la puerta del sol - coming soon"

[hiddenboston]

I just did a little research on this place. Looks like La Puerta Del Sol will have food, drink, and entertainment, including live music, and they look to have an area for outdoor dining.

[galleygirl]

I think that since Red Pepper in Framingham is open under new ownership, they should count as an opening!

[hoohah]

Gavein's, high-end prime steakhouse in Middleton closed a few weeks ago.

[Joanie]

Sub shop Huntington Pizza just past Flames on Huntington appears closed, grates have been down for a while.

And I walked by Zon's Sat. at 6:15 and the tables had tablecloths but nothing else, no sign they were on vacation. Did i miss something while i was away or did they just forget to stick a sign on the door?

[hiddenboston]

This may explain Zon's (hopefully!).

http://boston.everyblock.com/restaurant-inspections/by-date/2009/8/12/271961/

(Thanks to Universal Hub for starting a thread on this.

)

http://www.universalhub.com/node/27111

[purple bot]

Probably nothing to do with it, all the violations were non-critical. I see nothing there that would warrant them being closed, or for that matter, anything that would worry me as a diner.

[Joanie]

Yeah but it sounds more than just violations. Damn.

Closed. No indication on the
By anon (not verified) | Wed, 08/19/2009 - 6:55am

Closed.

No indication on the store front of closing.
Heard from a former staffer -- the owner pulled the plug late last week.

* reply

the owner has been thinking of closing for a while
By jeremy (not verified) | Wed, 08/19/2009 - 8:43am

according to other local business owners, the owner of zon's had been planning to pull the plug for quite a while (i first heard of these plans about 6 months ago). the landlords of that building have raised the rates in the building to above-market rates (see the milky way), seemingly for no reason except spite (the billboards on top of the building more than pay for any mortgages or other expenses).

and to ron: zon's is/was a great restaurant in jamaica plain, in the same building that formerly housed bella luna / the milky way.

[hiddenboston]

So basically, that part of JP is really going to stink now, all because of greedy landlords. That really gets me upset. That block used to be so great, with Zon's, Bella Luna, and the Milky Way, and now it appears that there is no reason to go to that block anymore. Damn.

[Bob Dobalina]

It's not entirely a lost cause - El Oriental de Cuba is just a block away - and the Brendan Behan and some other eateries are within a block too.

Anyone want to take odds that once all the tenants are out of that particular building, the JP arsonist mysteriously strikes again?

[hiddenboston]

Does the Brendan Behan have food? I didn't think they did for some reason.

[MC Slim JB]

I've heard only that the Behan allows outside food to be brought in, e.g., from Food Wall or Pupuseria La Guanaca nearby. Places that do that don't usually serve food themselves.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[yumyum]

No, but you can bring food in. It's nice to have a papusa from Papusas Guanica down the block.

[Joanie]

I got a pupusa from them the other day and it was excellent, pork & cheese. I should have gotten two of those rather than an order of beef tacos which I didn't realize come fried (with the same slaw type stuff).

[itaunas]

TC's Espresso & Coffee repair (which used to operate a cafe, but it closed around 10 years ago) moved a while back to Middletown (?) and Rex Caffe recently opened in its old location on Main St in Everett. Its Moroccan owned, but I am uncertain about food because I haven't managed to get there when its open. Also curious if the Marrakech Cafe also on Main St is still operating.

[hiddenboston]

As I mentioned earlier, Five Guys Burger opened today in Randolph. Also, as another poster mentioned, Nourish Restaurant has opened in Lexington Center.

One more: Abby Park is opening very soon in Milton.

[ChickenBrocandZiti]

Any word on what is going into the space at 557 Columbus Ave?

[brserna]

Since I work on the BU campus, I am always on the lookout for good and different places for lunch. I feel bad that students are forces to eat only at chains so I jump for joy when we get new and different places. On my way to work, I noticed that we are getting an Olecito where the Ferretti's used to be. We are also getting another Panera Bread and an Upper Crust as well. Both are going to be in the same building across from Agganis Arena.

[avial]

Dorado Tacos & Cemitas will open on Wednesday, July 29th according to Facebook.

[gutterman]

where??

[itaunas]

Harvard Street between Commonwealth and Coolidge Corner
http://www.doradotacos.com/
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/5849...

[JoJo5]

I found out the hard way last evening that Morn's Thai restaurant in Wayland has closed. I'm not sure how long ago but the "for rent" sign was a shock as my friend and I drove into the parking lot. I know it doesn't get much love here on CH but I always loved their wild boar basil and their incendiary chicken green curry. RIP Morn's.

JoJo

[Mr Bigglesworth]

Cafe Polonia in South Boston is opening a place called Zaps, which will be going into the old Fun Food Snackery location - they will be serving Polish sandwiches, take out style.

Also, the owners of Buk Kyung are opening a Korean street food restaurant in Suvarnabhumi kiri's old location...

And lastly, Church is opening another bar (yayus!) in the old Takemura space in Coolidge Corner.

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

"Cafe Polonia in South Boston is opening a place called Zaps, which will be going into the old Fun Food Snackery location - they will be serving Polish sandwiches, take out style."

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Maybe I should get my cholesterol level checked now so I have a baseline reading to compare it to...

[Mr Bigglesworth]

Happy to brighten your day! I still need to go to Polonia - long been on my list of overdue places to try.

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

For that matter, anyone know what Korean-style street food is likely to consist of? For some reason, I'm picturing teppan-style grilled things on skewers.

[Allstonian]

Whatever the food will be, the place is called Myung Dong 1st Ave. New awnings have already been installed and there are a couple of "coming soon" posters in the windows.

[MC Slim JB]

Just guessing (been a while since I've been in Korea), but I'd expect dumplings, batter-fried things (squid, shrimp), kebab-like grilled things on sticks, rice cakes, sliced sausages with a salt dip, and maki-like hand rolls.

Very excited to hear about both of these places!

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[galleygirl]

I'm dreaming of octopus on a stick....

[fragolino]

Found out a some more about Myung Dong 1st from their facebook page:

"Foods will incude different types of pajeon, or scallion pancakes; ddeokboki; mandoo; budae jjigae; and other bar/appetizer types of food.
We do have a beer and wine license and will also serve soju and makkeolli. There will also be soju cocktails such as watermelon soju and yogurt soju. We also may do bubble tea!!!
Flat screen tv's will display Boston sports games as well as Korean sports and music videos.
The bar is also an "ohdeng bar".

I'm not sure what any of those items are,but looking forward to trying them.

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

Mandoo are dumplings. Ddeokboki is those awesome thick, chewy rice cakes in a sweet-hot sauce, usually with pickled veg and fish cake added.

[galleygirl]

The googles say odeng is a fish cake or fish noodle soup, popular as street food, like Japanese oden...Can't wait!

[hiddenboston]

And do you know what the bar will be called in Coolidge Corner? Hint: Any Three's Company fans out there? ;-)

[crazycrazypete]

The Regal Beagle?

[hiddenboston]

Yes! You win the prize!

[sallyt]

WOW - that restaurant name absolutely made my day - thanks for sharing!

[BobB]

It's the old Takeshima space, actually, not Takemura. There's an article about it in this week's TAB (http://www.wickedlocal.com/brookline/...). It does have the same owners as Church.

According to the article they're aiming for a neighborhood hangout vibe, serving "creative comfort foods" as well as booze, and are hoping to open in September.

[bear]

The takeout section of the Shalimar Market next to Harvest Co-op has a large sign saying "Dosa Factory coming soon". They advertise fresh dosa, naan, kebabs and Indian snacks. Workers were resurfacing the rear exterior with brick, and the clothing/gift area has been moved to the basement. There will be some seating inside.

Not sure when the kitchen remodel will take place. The old takeout section is operating as usual right now.

[Taralli]

All their ornate carved red velvet chairs were out on the sidewalk for sale - hope it's just the chairs!

[mangorita]

South Shore News: No big shocker for those who've eaten there...but Capri on Union St. in Braintree has closed. They didn't last that long. they only opened earlier this year. There is now a For Lease sign up on the building (the former Bickfords in the Motel 6 parking lot).

[hiddenboston]

Wow, we drove by it three days ago and I was actually surprised that it looked still IN business. Never saw any cars there over the past few months whenever I drove by it....

[mangorita]

They put a small "Capri Closed" sign on the door at some point late last week and then the FOR LEASE sign showed up yesterday or today. I never saw it busy either.

[bostonfoodz]

just heard the legal seafood is opening a new concept restaurant, still seafood, in the great bay space.

[hynespb]

College Sub across from Boston College has closed down. No big loss.

[pemma]

What does it say about the place when a sub shop can't survive across the street from a college!?

[chowboy55]

Seems to be some construction activity at the previous location of "Circle" and "Bob's" on Columbus Ave. Looks like some renovations in progress. Any info on what's happening??

[ChickenBrocandZiti]

There are rumors of a "Jazz Bar". There is a thread in here somewhere. Additionally there seems to be some real progress being made on the Parish Cafe spot on Mass Ave as well.

[hiddenboston]

Yes, it is definitely going to be a jazz bar and restaurant. Not sure if it is Circle making another go at it or some other new spot, but it is definitely happening.

[hotoynoodle]

where on mass. ave.?

[ChickenBrocandZiti]

On the corner of Columbus and Mass. in the old Rent A Center space.

[bostonfoodz]

http://storkclubboston.com/

taking over old bob the chefs/circle

[hiddenboston]

Interesting. Wasn't the Stork Club the name of some dive bar in Charlestown a long time ago?

[fmcoxe6188]

I dont think that this has been mentioned yet-but if it has I apologize. BiNA just opened a cafe on the common- corner of tremont and avery. Serving a variety of breakfast goods and sandwiches etc open 1030am-6pm daily. Sounds like it might be a good lunch option for the area...

[MC Slim JB]

The Bina Cafe's sandwiches are pre-made, but it looks like they have a griddle for burgers, too.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[fmcoxe6188]

Hmmm interesting. Whats the set up like? Im trying hard to picture this....

[MC Slim JB]

Sandwiches are made at the Alimentari: five or six options, $6-8. Burgers are cooked on what looks like a consumer-type gas grill.

Instantly one of the more interesting street-food options in Downtown. Too bad it didn't open in time for my Stuff Magazine feature.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[southiesouthend]

Tried this last week- I had a caprese panini. It was pretty tasty, although I think the bread was too thick/it wasn't left on the grill long enough, because it was pretty cool in the middle. Sort of like a warmed mozz and tomato sandwich. But the location is nice, tables are nice, iced tea was tasty. Not bad.

[galangatron]

la fonda paisa in revere is now la fonda. no relation

[typhoonfish]

Oceanaire corporate filed for Chapter 11. I'm pretty sure the Boston location will remain open.

[Joanie]

Shoot, I better get back in there for the hash browns just to be sure.

[Joanie]

Does anyone have info on the Sami's in JP? It's been at the same stage for months now, signs in the window that look like it's close to opening but a lot of work still to be done.

[gutterman]

Work is going on right now. His son said that they are looking at a end of july opening. there was a little break in the work for a few weeks, but they seem to be going again.

[egc]

They just got approval 2 weeks ago from the neighborhood committee

[fmcoxe6188]

I hate to even ask this question for fear of rotten tomatoes being thrown at me- but has anyone heard any buzz about Splash opening on Kneeland Street? As another "outdoor" space it sounds interesting, if not entirely plastic...

The rest of the restaurants in the De Pasquale line up though make me think it might be worth a try. Any thoughts out there?

http://www.splash150kneeland.com/inde...

[Bob Dobalina]

I know I can't wait to try their "World Famous" steak tips! ;)

[fmcoxe6188]

world famous before they are even open- thats a feat...
Yeah-I have a feeling that its going to be rather ridiculous-but the child like optimist in me was really hoping....

[GastroSpeakBoston]

Hey MCSJB - Sorry if any of this a repeat, but here are some openings for those in the MetroWest ‘burbs...

In Needham, I heard that Pomodoro is opening a 3rd spot soon, in the space where Quince was. Also, Tu y Yo is opening where Pho Pasteur used to be. And Acapulco’s is supposedly moving from their Needham St. location in Newton to where the Ground Round was, right by 128. There is a rumor that Flour bakery is opening in town, too. Finally, Spiga is under new management (not to mention higher prices).

In Wellesley, Bobby's Grille is supposed to open this month, near Newton Lower Falls across from Paparazzi. They say they have a website, but it's not working. It's next to another new pizza joint, Wellesley North End pizza, on a block that has at least 2 others. Tried it a month ago - not bad, not great. I'll stick to Sweet Tomatoes in Needham until Upper Crust smartens up and comes out our way! Also, Somerville bistro The Kebab Factory is planning to open a cafe called Singh’s where Vela was.

Cheers!

http://www.gastrospeakboston.com/

[qwertyu]

flour bakery in the suburbs?? that would be fantastic!

do you have any more details?

[itaunas]

BTW the former Sal e Brasa in Everett reopened last week as Brazilian Country Buffet. Also Old Station Steakhouse in Framingham I think started serving their liquor license suspension and there is an upcoming hearing on change of ownership (as I noted before, another in a series of area restaurants focusing a bit too hard on the nightclub portion, even though that like Ipanema was separate from the dining room).

Also looks like Midwest Grill rolled back its Rodizio prices a tad ($2/night, $3/lunch??) -- $19.95 and $12.95.

[CreativeFoodie42]

Saw on MenuPages that Natural Bean (the coffee shop) on Newbury Street is now closed.

[Bob Dobalina]

Not previously mentioned here - the Federal opened next to the fire station on Cambridge Street in Beacon Hill. Here's a recent thread - http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/625160

[Gabatta]

According to the sign on the window when we passed by tonight, Montien's Inman Square location closed as of June 28th. It was always empty in there. Too bad as we love the original location. I suppose we didn't do our part to support this outpost, only getting take out every few months.

[Joanie]

That's too bad. They had that decent bar area which you think could have been successful in the midst of the Druid/East Coast/Bukowski crowds.

[Bob Dobalina]

That's too bad, but at least for me, the opening of Sweet Ginger and Pho n Rice siphoned off a least a few dollars from Montien. They did make a really good larb that the others do not.

Speaking of which, Sweet Ginger in Union Square made me a piquant pad thai the other day, but that place seems like it should probably be on the watch list. Also, anyone have any idea of how Ronnarong is doing?

[hiddenboston]

Yeah, I went on their Web site a little while ago and it was gone, and I called the number and they were referring people to the Boston location. As you said, the place always seemed to be empty.

[9lives]

I go to the Stuart St location pretty regularly and they've told me the Cambridge location never really caught on for them.

[litchick]

Probably (in part) because they never really offered the "special menu" that makes the Stuart St location so good.

[ChefJune]

No mention in all these posts of the impending demise of Icarus. Their last day is July 7th.

[hiddenboston]

Does anyone know if Aquitaine has opened in Dedham yet? Must be getting very close....

[yumyum]

Not for nothing, but Finagle a Bagel in Coolidge corner has closed. Bagels way too sweet so no great loss.

[hiddenboston]

As Universal Hub said, "If you can't sell bagels in Coolidge Corner, does that say something about you?" ;-)

[Joanie]

What *does* 'not for nothing' mean? But I am surprised about this, it seemed like their mom's groups would have supported it but I guess people walk the 4 blocks to Kupel's. Maybe it's another greedy Coolidge Corner landlord looking for more rent?

[MC Slim JB]

I always understood "not for nothing, but" to be an indirect way of saying, "there's a very good reason that". It has a distinctly Yiddish quality to my ear.

Having lived in Coolidge Corner and watched a parade of seemingly reasonably successful small businesses come and go like mayflies every year, I think the landlords charge exorbitant rents there. You'd think it would be cheaper to charge more reasonable rents, keep tenants in business, minimize turnover and vacancies, but apparently not.

I see the same thing in the South End now: small businesses being forced out by newly jacked-up rents. A storefront up the block has sat vacant for over three years; meanwhile, the forced-out tenant has done nicely since at another spot a block over. Seems crazy to me.

Purportedly it was newly-high rent that made The Dish an untenable business after ten years. I'll be curious to see how long Coppa can maintain its alleged opening prices (small plates in the $11-12 range) at that location.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[justbeingpolite]

Listen again. Definitely not yiddish, more NYC italian. and it does mean the thing to be said is important, as in "I'm NOT saying this FOR NOTHING"

[Joanie]

I still don't think it really means anything, it just seems like random words to start a sentence. One of my pet peeve annoyances. More annoying is the way things are going in Coolidge Corner. I wonder how long that F-a-B space along with the Barnes & Noble and Japanese restaurant spaces will stay vacant.

[hiddenboston]

Maybe they can open a Dunkin' Donuts in each of those three spots. ;-)

[itaunas]

Believe it or not at least one Dunkin donuts and in a well trafficked area has closed, the franchise on Rt 16 in Everett. I think it was more of a winter closing and that shop had odd hours, but it still was a surprise. The next door Silver Fox has a "hidden" take out restaurant in the back which I think is still cranking away (the function hall/bar seems slow). Basic fried seafood, tips, burgers...

[chickendhansak]

CH is not the place for this, I'm sure, but MCSJB's interpretation is also common and both yours and his are cited out there on teh internetz. Personally it means to my ear the same as it does to MCSJB, but useful to learn of the other meaning.

[BlueTrain84]

Qdoba just bit the dust as well. Not that I like chain burritos, but there are quite a few empty store fronts in CC now.

[Gordough]

How long did that last? 1 year?

[BlueTrain84]

Maybe less? I remember it opening fairly recently. It's a decent-sized space, hopefully the next place to rent it out will have better luck.

[Cachetes]

When I moved to the area just late last year, I was really surprised that it could support so many mediocre Mexican/pseudo-Mexican restaurants. With T-Rex and Qdoba going the way of the dodo, I guess I have my answer.

[yumyum]

"Not for nothing" kinda means ... this is really important. Counter intuitive I know and obviously sarcastic in my post above. I just like the sound of the phrase.

I think your theory about the CC landlord temperament will prove to be closest to the truth. Kupels bagels are also blah so i can't imagine people (moms or not) walking an extra 4 blocks to get them.

[Chrispy75]

There's more to it than landlords trying to gouge tenants.

With the commercial tax rate in Brookline at 175 times the residential rate, it's a no brainer why so many storefronts are empty (including the national chains.)

A lot of landlords have tried to reduce rents to keep local businesses, but it's nearly impossible because of what they have to pay the town in taxes.

[Ralphie_in_Boston]

Not only that, but for chain-store bagels, isn't there a Bruegger's in the area anyhow? Kind of around the corner from TJ's, it's been there for years.

[Cachetes]

Yep, Brueggers is about 1 block south of CC on Harvard. I've only been in the area about 10 months, but my impression is that businesses that are located even just a few blocks off of CC seem to be hanging on better than those right in it.

[Aromatherapy]

From a local board: "Coolers and other equipment have been delivered and there is a sign in the window for Ebisuya Japanese Market at 65 Riverside Ave. in Medford Square. Hopefully that's a sign things are on schedule for an August opening."

[Joanie]

Did anyone mention that the cafe whose name begins with A on Columbus Ave. (used to be Nashoba) has closed? Brown paper on the windows.

[hiddenboston]

It looks like Watertown is finally getting an Indian restaurant. According to Wicked Local, it will be called Lazziz, and it will be on Main Street in the square.

http://blogs.townonline.com/watertown...

[9lives]

Construction is under way in the old Grand Chau Chau space in Chinatown. Name was covered but I read "New Asian" and the front appears to be towards the higher end.

[nasilemak]

it's a malaysian spot.

[kobuta]

The name is Bubor Cha Cha (it's a Malaysian dish apparently).

[limster]

It's a dessert consisting of sweet potato, yam, taro simmered in sweetened coconut milk.

[hiddenboston]

Coriander in Sharon recently reopened. It is no longer a high-end French restaurant, though. Instead, they will be featuring Indian/South Asian food. (The owner is a partner at the Himalayan Bistro in West Roxbury.)

[skordalia]

Lucky Sharon. Himalayan Bistro is excellent, and I'm sure this offshoot will be too. That's a perfect spot for a restaurant like HB.

[hiddenboston]

Definitely. BTW, they are keeping the "Coriander" name, which might throw some people off initially (no more French food there!).

[yumyum]

Coriander is used a lot in Indian and South Asian cookery. Less so in French.

[hiddenboston]

True. I use it a lot with turmeric and other spices commonly used in Indian dishes.

Heh, I was at a function south of Boston over the weekend and told some of the folks there that Coriander had re-opened, and I got the same response from all of them: "Coriander closed?" :-D It did seem to be a pretty quiet closing earlier this year.

[almansa]

And it is what non-Latin cuisines refer to as cilantro.

[hiddenboston]

Non-Latin or Latin?

Yes, coriander is the seed and cilantro is the leaf.

[almansa]

my goof - yes French, Vietnamese, Indian etc recipes (in English) refer to the leaves as coriander as well as the seeds.

[waddlers]

Most people in England refer to Cilantro as Coriander I think,

[inmanchick]

i believe Benatti most likely has seen it's last meal. The sign on the window for the past couple of weeks has said "restaurant on vacation" with no date of reopening. I know the owner has it listed on Boston Restaurant Group, and it has been listed for quite a while.

[hiddenboston]

Ugh, "restaurant on vacation" seems to be the kiss of death these days. Not good. Who knows, though--maybe they are actually on vacation, LOL.

[jgleeche]

I wouldn't be surprised. I had one meal there and decided I probably wouldn't go back. Although it was alright, it didn't seem worth the price when I could just go to Gran Gusto and get a much better meal.

http://jgleeche.blogspot.com/

[WineAG]

Looks like Benatti is on a "permanent" vacation. Their phone is now disconnected. Oddly, they are still listed on Open Table and you can make reservations, which I'm sure has inconvenienced some people. Too bad a place like Benatti couldn't make it. I only had excellent meals there and enjoyed the intimate atmosphere and personal attention. Wish they had closed more gracefully.

[Snoop37]

another one bites the dust

[ac106]

Can't say I am surprised. Aside from having maybe the worst restaurant related website I have ever seen, they had shockingly high prices for Inman Square.

[hsquare2southend]

I just heard that Benatti is going to be moving to the South End.

[southie]

Have you heard which space?

[Bob Dobalina]

That's a much better location for that sort of place.

[hiddenboston]

As Citysearch will tell you, this is just a rumor....

[thegirlwholovestoeat]

Lilly's Gourmet Pasta opened on Brighton Ave in Allston, has anyone been yet?

[southiesouthend]

nope, but I noticed that they were on the list for Taste of Allston this Sunday afternoon, looking forward to trying their food there. ( tickets are only $15 online- lots of delicious Allston food to be had )

[CreativeFoodie42]

I'm not sure if they are temporarily closed or closed for good but Johnnie's on the Side was closed this weekend with a vague sign that said that they were closed and sorry for the inconvenience. Any news about this place? I wouldn't be surprised if they did close for good because they just did not get any traffic despite their location to the Garden...

[CreativeFoodie42]

Received confirmation that JOS is closed for good. Wondering what will go in that location now...

[hiddenboston]

I assume your source is a good one, but out of curiosity, I just checked the Web site for JOS and it's still up, and called their number and the voicemail is still there, but none of that seems to mean much these days....

[fmcoxe6188]

The signs on the door state that it will re open in a couple of days and that they are closed for "plumbing issues", they also have a sign up stating that their July 12 Reggae Sunday is on. We saw the owner in there the other day, but didn't want to bother him esp since the signs seem to state that they should be open again soon.

[Joanie]

I just called Johnnie's and they gave the plumbing issue line again, but said they're supposedly reopening on Sept. 10.

[fmcoxe6188]

Thanks Joanie! I walked past a couple of days ago and there was definitely lots of work going on-street all torn up with pipes everywhere and ladders inside- though of course the tables were so nicely set. Glad to hear he's set a re-open date!!! Though Im sure he was sad to miss out on a lot of the Baseball season....

[CreativeFoodie42]

I'm glad that the financing issues worked out. I'm glad nobody held their breath for the July 12th reggae Sunday - haha!

[CreativeFoodie42]

It is definitely not plumbing issues. A friend is supposed to throw an event there soon and was sent an email from the event manager that the place is closed indefinitely and the implication was financial. The email also said that they were trying to get things in order to re-open but it looked doubtful. I'd have to guess that the sign discussed below is just a front while they figure everything out.

[eiareis]

Milton/Lower Mills is getting a restaurant boost...Abbey Park is opening in East Milton Square soon and the website says it will be Contemporary American. Also looks like there is a new restaurant coming on Dot Ave. a few doors down from Common Ground.

[hiddenboston]

Yes, Abby Park will be open in July. Also, don't forget the new restaurant coming to Milton Landing in July. It will be called 88 Wharf and apparently will be an upscale restaurant (possibly featuring Mediterranean dishes) overlooking the Neponset River.

[mimibolduc]

When is 88 Wharf supposed to open?

[hiddenboston]

This Thursday. (I just wrote a brief article on its opening.)

[hiddenboston]

This is more of a "fall opening," but there will be a new Summer Shack coming to Hingham later this year. It will be in the Derby Street Shoppes where Whole Foods and REI are.

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

Why would anyone go to Summer Shack when Hingham Lobster Pound is right there?

[hiddenboston]

Unlike the Hingham Lobster Pound (which I really like, by the way), the Summer Shack will have seating, plus it will attract folks who are hitting the stores there and don't want to travel the 10-15 minutes to Route 3A. I'm thinking it will do pretty well in that location.

[itaunas]

Minas Grill on Broadway in East Somerville is now a Haitian Creole restaurant, Bistro 409 or something like that.

Ferrarri's in Malden (I about the only hound who had a good experience here) near the original Malden Super88 has not surprisingly shut its doors, space looks vacation.

[nasilemak]

Does anyone know when Bubor Cha Cha in Chinatown is opening?
The interior looks like another take on a tropical theme a la Penang but with nicer light fixtures.

[y2000k]

I walked past today and there's no sign on the front whatsoever indicating a potential opening date.

[barleywino]

today they said they would open on Saturday

[9lives]

I stopped in last week and they're hoping for this week or next.

[pemma]

Drove by empty store space in Newton Corner yesterday (across from Bertucci's where rug place used to be). There was a sign up "Coming Soon. Prana Raw Cafe"

[Taralli]

Sign says Felafel Corner, COMING SOON under new management, will be replacing Greek Corner on Elliot St. in Harvard Sq.

[dulce de leche]

That's too bad. I had many a good cheap lunch there!

Next door, Shabu Square has closed its doors. (It was so egregiously bad, though, it is no wonder.)

In the window it says something like "Conga, coming soon, a scrumptious Latin experience".

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

Ick. Is it wrong to start a death watch before a restaurant even opens?

I'm extremely encouraged at the idea of Felafel Corner, though: Greek Corner was fine, but it would be nice not to have to trek all the way out to Fordee's to fulfill my fried chickpea requirements.

[Snoop37]

just to clarify.... this is NOT the same Greek Corner on Mass Ave, right? I never realized there were two.

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

No, Greek Corner II is a tiny little narrow space on Eliot Street. It's across from the bus stop alongside the Charles Hotel and a few doors down from my beloved Twisted Village, one of the world's greatest record stores.

[dulce de leche]

It was a sister restaurant to that one. I've only been to the Mass Ave one once, but it seemed really different--the HS store was mostly sandwiches & salads cooked by the same guys (not sure where they're from, not Greece for sure because they all speak Spanish) behind the counter for forever. I hope they still have a job somewhere.

Barmy, do you not like Sabra Grill's felafel? I've never had it, but I love their chicken shawarma.

>Ick. Is it wrong to start a death watch before a restaurant even opens?

Right? They renovated the space nicely, with those windows & everything, so one would hope something really good would happen there. But I'm not hopeful about the scrumptious Conga. But hey, prove me wrong, please! I will definitely try it. I even tried the Swiss restaurant that was in the Square for about a minute.

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

Oh, god, that Swiss place was awful. About as Swiss as Swiss Chalet, for one thing.

If I've had Sabra's felafel, they were unmemorable, but it's possible I haven't had. Part of it is just that Fordee's felafel is just so amazingly good that they sort of squeeze all other felafel out of the picture for me.

[yumyum]

No great loss, but Green Tomatoes II in Davis Square is closing. I don't think they even lasted a year in that space which was only good when it was Carberry's. Wonder what will go in next?

[Joanie]

Why did Carberry's move out in the first place? It always seemed to do pretty well and obviously, its successors aren't doing so great.

[yumyum]

I have no idea -- but the place has really suffered since. Boloco tried to have kids / moms groups, and I think games nights too. Green Tomatoes was hosting community meetings to try to generate traffic, but maybe it's just one of those doomed sites.

[MC Slim JB]

I actually thought that place was good, as cafeteria-style places go. Surprised it didn't make a go of it in that neighborhood. I probably would have subsisted there in my college days; it definitely delivered value.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[hiddenboston]

Yeah, I liked it as well. I wonder if the location is just far enough away from the heart of Davis Square to avoid getting enough food traffic.

[yumyum]

I only tried it once and found the value to be very good but the food to be very middling. Cafeteria-style food is right -- took me right back to high school when I worked in the kitchen at a hospital. Packet gravy and instant potatoes. Comforting to be sure.

[hiddenboston]

By the way, I was just reading that an event that was supposed to be held at Green Tomato tomorrow has been canceled. So I assume that it has already shut its doors for good?

[Bob Dobalina]

I live nearby and I'll admit - the minute I read it was "cafeteria-style," I wrote it off my list. I prefer getting a whole chicken from Machu Picchu (with sides or without and making my own) any day of the week if I need a quick meal option.

That and I thought the name was off - Fried green tomatoes are edible, just plain green tomatoes are hard and not appetizing. A subconscious block.

[poptart]

Got to agree with you on the name, pretty unappetizing as just "green tomatoes", and made me think of "not-quite" food. Tried it, it was ok but not good enough to be a destination. With so many other options nearby it would have to deliver something worthy of being a destination, especially in its location.

[Boston_Otter]

They really shot themselves in the foot with bad branding off the bat. With a name like Green Tomato, you don't know what to expect: eco-friendly? Tomatillos... Mexican? Italian? A look at their menu gives you no clarity, because they've got the same generic sandwiches, salads, and wraps as a dozen other places... and pasta, but that's mostly for catering (?). They never had an identity.

The one time I went, the service was terrible -- my friend waited nearly 20 minutes for his meal, and it was undercooked, because they screwed it up twice and started over. Never had a desire to spend my money there again.

[Parsnipity]

I actually thought its brief incarnation as Au Natural's (owned by the Stonyfield Farm people) was the most successful of the many things in that space recently. And yes, the doors are literally closed.

What I don't understand is how Joey's Thai right next door manages to stay open.

[smtucker]

Drove by tonight and there are large FOR RENT signs in the windows.

[Boston_Otter]

smtucker: FOR RENT signs in the window of Green Tomato II or Joey's Thai?

[9lives]

In the NE, 5 North Sq has closed and reopened as Gennaro's 5 North Sq. Owned by the Cafe Florentine people. I didn't have a chance to eat there but they have a nice little bar.

[itaunas]

The new Chelsea Market Basket (with access from 2nd Street!!) is opening this Wednesday 6/10 with a number of specials, including $3.99/lb lobsters (that store, that day only).

Panificadora Modelo (from Somerville) is opening another bakery on Broadway in Everett adding to the competition there.

[cochon21]

Anybody know when el pelon is going to re-open.

[Gabatta]

http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/food/...

"Chef Ken Oringer is taking over the former Dish space on Shawmut in the South End.
The new restaurant, which he hopes to open in August with partner Jamie Bissonnette, will be called Coppa.
It will be a neighborhood enoteca, or wine bar, with house-made charcuterie, bar snacks, Italian small plates, wood-oven pizza, and homemade pasta."

Great concept for the space and neighborhood, but does KO really need to stretch himself any thinner? I would much rather see him focus on getting better consistency at his existing properties.

[iloveporkbelly]

If anybody can pull this off it is Chef Jaime Bissonette. He will be running both Toro and the new venture according to the report. He is an incredible chef.

[hotoynoodle]

they are walking distance from each other and could possibly be sharing some product between toro and ko prime. sounds like a great move for jaime.

[tatamagouche]

We love the Jamie. If anyone has the energy to do nearly anything it's him.

[hsquare2southend]

I am very excited about this! Great news for the neighborhood!

[itaunas]

Roma Seafood's (formerly Roma Bakery) space has reopened as Souza's, which seems similar but was advertising a bit more prepared food. Haven't had a chance to check out the fare, but will do soon.

[dulce de leche]

Is that the one by the Target on McGrath Hwy?

[itaunas]

Yes, officially on Somerville Ave near the intersection of Gore Street, but the twists and turns of Som Ave and Washington Street make addressing there confusing. You have got JJ's on Washington/McGrath, the Nucleo Sportinguista alongside McGrath (good food, but 98% male occupied and need some association with a member), the Portuguese American Civic League on the next block (they were offering lunch to the public, but I wonder if it was too slow to continue???), Cross Street Market across McGrath and Jerry's down in Union Sq proper so its still a pretty solid area for Portuguese shopping and chowing.

[dulce de leche]

Cool, thanks. And thanks for the other ideas, too.

JJ's is another one I've been curious about, but wonder if I will have any idea what to do once I'm inside!

[itaunas]

If you want to try JJ's without much commitment, order a Prego (or bifana) and eat it at the front of the store with a Sumol. If you get them to fry bolinhos de bacalhau or rissois de camarao to order they can be decent, but I believe both are purchased frozen (their brazilian salgadinhos have been awful when I have had them) and avoid them if sitting for a while in the warming case. If you go to the back its very mellow and you can order from the full menu, order wine/beer. For atmosphere its one of my favorite places and very family friendly. Aromatherapy has done a good job of posting reports about experiences there, which I haven't. I am not a huge fan of the sauce for the bife, avoid the squid, and prefer my carne a aletejana a bit different, but they have good homecooked style renditions of most dishes (and its a solid place for bacalhau a lagareiro).

[Joanie]

Did anyone mention that Ruth's Kitchen in JFK Crossing closed? I was surprised to see that when I walked by last nite.

[galleygirl]

Yes, but the exciting news, as reported here, is that fish tacs and cernitas will be coming in...
FYI - http://www.doradotacos.com/

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

Do we have an ETA on Dorado Tacos yet? I'm jonesing.

[hiddenboston]

They are hoping to be open by the end of June.

[hiddenboston]

Tavern in the Square just opened a third location, this one being in Salem.

[BackBayGirl]

Pizzeria Dante on Beacon St. near Coolidge Corner opened in May. Not sure how it is. It replaced Pizza Republic which was not that memorable a place.

[hiddenboston]

Looks like a new place called Jade Garden may be coming to Tyler Street in Chinatown if everything works out. Not sure if it's related to the Jade Garden in Arlington, but I'm guessing it isn't....

[maggiepie]

this is the direction that "luxury" hotels are moving in...it's a quicker and easier buck to use it as "meeting space"

[digga]

Tagine in Harvard Sq. is closed (at least it appears to be from the plastic sheeting hanging over the windows).

EDIT: I thought I had read a review here on Tagine, but upon searching, I can't find it. Thanks for the correction, Slim! I guess they are still trying to open their doors but it seems to be taking a while.

[MC Slim JB]

I didn't realize that Tagine had even opened. Is it possible that it has not opened yet?

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[Mr Bigglesworth]

http://bostonherald.com/news/regional...

Link to Great Bay story.

[Gabatta]

Correct, Tagine has yet to open. Maybe it won't open at all, the sign has been up with plastic on the windows for several months, with no discernable work going on inside.

[hynespb]

There is a Shwarama King opening in West Roxbury on centre st.

Its only called "The King", but is the same owner and same logo.

[SaraASR]

Is this where Samias was?

[hynespb]

Yeah, says it will be opening June 1st! I am excited to say the least.

[ScoobieSnack]

Tried to go last night and they are still not open. Was really looking forward to a falafel last night.

It is strange that on Shwarna Kings web site they do not mention the opening of this "branch"

[Chrispy75]

I wonder if it is in fact the same owner(s) because after they closed the branch by NU, I was told that they would never open a 2nd place becasue it was hard to maintain quality/freshness. I wonder if another family member is opening this one in West Roxbuty.

[Chazari99]

I called today and they said they hope to be open on June 7 or 8, after they get inspected. I also asked him if it would be the same menu as Schwarma King, and he said "almost the same".

[sallyt]

I just hope the food is as good as Samia's - it's so sad that she had to close...

[skordalia]

the King is open now... looking forward.

[hynespb]

awesome! I had been driving by after work every day, but went down to FL for a week. I will certainly be there for lunch tomorrow!

[hiddenboston]

Does The King look like mostly a takeout place, a sitdown restaurant, or a little of both? What does the atmosphere look like? Anyone know their hours?

[skordalia]

Finally made it to the King today. Hard to make a blanket statement about the food after one meal, but the sandwich I had was quite good. I definitely will be back- can't wait to try more. I don't think it's fair to compare it to Samia's. The King has a different angle on Lebanese food, more emphasis on grilled kebabs. They do have the usual salad/appetizer mezze, but they've given pride of place to the kebabs, right up front in the display counter. Simpler menu than the Brookline Shawarma King - no shawarma and not as many veg options (the pumpkin kibbe will be missed)- but hopefully that will change as they settle in. All in all, I'm ecstatic to have it in the neighborhood...

To answer your questions, It's a takeout place with tables, so- "a little of both." Atmosphere is the fairly typical middle eastern takeout vibe. It's less utilitarian than it was when Samia was in charge, but that's not saying much. Menu says it's open 11-9, sunday 12-5.

[hiddenboston]

Thank you so much for the info. I appreciate it!

[hynespb]

Well that explains the lack of "shwarma" in the title then.

[hynespb]

Well, I tried "The King" last Saturday. I thought the Chicken Kabob sandwich was amazing. The chicken was cooked perfectly, and the vegetables were crisp and fresh. The sandwich was so good i went and got another on Sunday!!

The interior is beautiful. I was never in Samia's, but The King is really nice. I also love how they provide outdoor seating (albeit a few chairs and no tables.) In fact, when i went on sunday, there was a man smoking a hookah!

[jennfie]

To MC Slim's original post How is this a big surprise? Hotels have been downscaling their restaurants over the past two years, many opting for a lounge and upscale bar menu; some even going for a neighborhood approach. Not everyone wants pretentious food snobbery and "old lady" fuss.

But that's odd about Great Bay -- it just had a makeover, new decor, tables, etc.

[MC Slim JB]

I always say that it's hard to complain when a place goes away if you weren't a loyal supporter; maybe if you'd gone more often, it would still be in business. I haven't had a big meal at Aujourd'hui in at least a couple of years, so it's hard for me to kick about it.

I certainly understand that Americans have gotten more informal and casual in their dining-out habits, but I wonder whether that explains Aujourd'hui's closing. It still surprises me when luxury establishments fade away. I think of them as being more insulated from the vicissitudes of the economy than less-expensive places. Really rich people and well-heeled foreign tourists are still dining out at very fancy places. And one person's pretentious food snobbery is another's luxury, high-craft cuisine. You probably don't want to eat it every day, but I don't think you have to be a snob or a flouncy old lady to appreciate it, either.

Some major part of the hit is business entertaining; I know I'm not allowed to spend on customers and prospects the way I did in better times. And like most people, I don't splurge on big occasion meals as much, either. The hotel found itself looking for better ways to make money with the space, and made its move. Sic transit gloria...

(I'm less surprised to hear about Great Bay; as I understand it, that place has struggled to make a profit from Day One.)

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[mouths2feed]

There is already an article posted on the Boston Herald's website about Great Bay closing May 30.

[penblow]

Have to say that the most talented chef in that hotel has been William Kovel. Closing that restaurant and leaving those other knuckleheads running the Bristol is a waste of talent..... Good luck to him..

[hiddenboston]

A new place in Methuen called the Boxwood Grill just opened at the Merrimack Valley Golf Club. Sounds like the outdoor deck is a pretty nice spot with good views.

A new Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant in Arlington called Pasha looks like it is pretty close to opening. It will be opening in the old Tsunami spot on Mass. Ave.

Five Guys Burgers will be opening another location in Swampscott pretty soon (perhaps in June?).

[Bob Dobalina]

Been waiting for an opportunity to comment on Five Guys - had my first at Reagan National the other day - it put all the other so-called "best" Boston burgers to shame! I was shocked, especially being airport food tucked away at the end of the A Concourse. Great flavorful and perfectly cooked burger, bun was hardy, nice bacon, fixings fresh - the fries were the most surprising part - why can't O'Sullivan's turn out fries like this?

[hiddenboston]

Glad you liked their burger (and fries!) as much as I did, Bob. I went to the Dedham one recently and thought it was one of the best burgers I've had in the Boston area in recent memory. BTW, they are also opening one in Randolph (near Cafe Bella), but I don't know for sure when it will be open.

[iloveporkbelly]

Great Bay in Kenmore Square is closing as of this Saturday, 5/30. No news yet as what will replace it :( I will miss the great Island dishes and creative cocktails.

[hiddenboston]

Great Bay? Really? Where did you hear that? I'd say that's a bit of a surprise, but I guess in this economy, nothing really is a surprise anymore.

[mouths2feed]

Isn't Au Jour d'hui owned by Four Seasons? I find it surprising that such a large and prestigious hotel brand could not figure out a way to keep it alive.

[Gabatta]

Tragic. There goes one of the last remaining fine dining experiences in Boston which is refined in an old school way (for lack of a better term).

Not to mention the loss of my favorite upscale brunch in Boston (can they at least add the raw bar to the Bristol brunch...pretty please?).

Maison Robert, L'Espalier, Aujourd'hui...very very sad. Some of the best special occasion places are but a memory.

[hotoynoodle]

maison robert closed 6 years ago because the owners were retiring, not because of lack of business or the economy.

the reality is that the 4 seasons will make much better profit on function business than a la carte dining. it was a decision the "new" ritz made about journe several years ago when the economy was still booming.

[jgarnache]

It's funny because both hotels are owned by the same company. They must have found success with functions at the Ritz and want to do the same at the 4 Seasons.

[BBHound]

Not so. The hotels are owned by investors but the management companies are quite different. The Four Seasons is run by a Canadian co. that operates Four Seasons hotels. The Ritz Carlton Hotel Co. is owned by Marriott.

[rlove]

In point of fact, Ritz is a subsidiary of Marriott, while Four Seasons is independently owned by a Canadian company.

[jgarnache]

Actually they are both owned by Millenium partners out of NYC. I work for MP. Both the Ritz and The Four Seasons are now brands which one pays to use.

[rlove]

Are you talking about the specific hotels in Boston or the parent companies? BBHound & I are talking about the parent companies, not the management company or investors. I don't know who owns the Boston Four Seasons, but I do know that Millennium Partners is the primary investor in the Boston Ritz.

As I am sure you know, Millennium Partners has a long and winding history with The Ritz in Boston.

The parent companies still own and operate many of their hotels. Boston might be an exception, but the Ritz and Four Seasons aren't solely franchised operations.

[Gabatta]

I was not implying that Maison Robert closed due to the economy, just that it is one of what seems to be a dying breed in Boston which has closed. It truly sucks as there is not anything which replaces some of these institutions as far as special occasion fine dining destinations IMO.

[jjbourgeois]

Ok, I am getting older and becoming a little far sighted. But I though that MC Slim posted that Aujourd d'hui is closing. Too say the least, I am shocked. I'm hoping that maybe MC got this news on April 1st. or that there may have been a large quantity of alcohol involved. If not, this is a shock to the Boston dining scene. Brunches, in my opinion, while pricey, have always been solid. Dinner, an experience that really has no equal in Boston. This is truly detrimental to the Boston food scene.

[hynespb]

IHOP in Dedham is now open. Its right on Rt. 1 where Applebeas used to be in the Dedham mall.

[southernitalian]

Love this.

[hsquare2southend]

Absolutely shocked about Aujourd'hui. This is the saddest thing I've heard in a long time. Went there at Christmastime and had a flawless, superb meal. Everything about it was absolutely perfect. Went in the dead of February for a wine dinner and, again, an absolutely sublime meal (and for only $45!). I think the chef was fantastic. This really is so, so sad. Our special-occasion options are really dwindling, and it's so sad when they're not just restaurants, but institutions.

[Savanna]

The Oregon club in Ashland will be reopening in late june. There was an article in The Metrowest Daily news last week.

[almansa]

It'll mean more tips for the concierges and a slight bump in Back Bay restaurant business.

[MC Slim JB]

Can I assume that by "tips", you mean "kickbacks"?

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[almansa]

The only kickbacks I know of are occasional free dinners where all the concierges gather at a restaurant for dinner on the house. And individually, when they're out they will get VIP treatment. But they get tipped by hotel guests, and the better the experience the hotel guests have, the better their tips tend to be. Concierges are an invaluable window into the fine dining scene, as you can see what restaurants are performing up to snuff. It doesn't take much to fall out of favor and concierges will collectively black-list a spot when they have to be responsible for their recommendations. Think Blackfin.

[tatamagouche]

Interesting POV, almansa—thx!

Does anybody know what's happening to the A'H somm, whose name escapes me at the moment but who seemed like a good guy?

[MC Slim JB]

Jason Irving is the Four Seasons wine director; don't know if that means he does both Aujourd'hui and The Bristol.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[iloveporkbelly]

If you mean Brick Loomis who was the prior wine director he has since moved on, sadly for us, to a new Four Season in Washington DC as food and bev director.

[tatamagouche]

Ah, yes, I meant Brick. That's too bad (for Boston).

[capeanne]

much more downscale but learned today that the Annisquam branch of Stone Soup Cafe will not reopen this season...bad thing

[treb]

That's too bad, I liked it better than their Ipswich place.