February 2010 Openings and Closings

[hiddenboston]

Can't believe it's February already. How the hell did that happen?

So what are some restaurants that are opening/closing around Boston this month? I have a couple: The Pulse Cafe (formerly Vej Naturals in Malden) is opening just outside of Davis Square in Somerville tomorrow. Also, Banjo's on Mass. Ave. in North Cambridge is supposed to open today.

Oh, and a quick question: Will Olecito in Brookline ever open? I've been trying to get info from them and have not heard back at all.

[yummieeee]

Fenway Cantina is opening Feb 3rd. It's a Tex-Mex place. It's opening in the old chicken bone spot.

[purple bot]

I'm told Sami's in JP is finally open, seems like it's taken forever.

[hiddenboston]

The new Sami's is indeed open (just wrote about it a little while ago). Looks like they are just open for lunch for now, but will be open for breakfast and dinner soon.

[nsenada]

Is this Sami's related to those trucks by the medical area?

[hiddenboston]

It is. I believe they had one that closed(?) in Allston as well. The two others are still open in the medical district.

[nsenada]

Interesting - haven't eaten there in about twenty years.

[jpsox]

Their sign says the temporary hours are 10:30 - 6:30

I went the other day and had a meze plate - greek salad, hummus, baba ganoush, and falafel - and everything was really good. Looking forward to trying more.

[hiddenboston]

Quick update: Banjo's is not opening today after all. Looks like later this week.

[scratchie]

I'm holding my breath!

[Parsnipity]

I saw a worker leaving the former Green Tomatoes II site (next to the Pulse Cafe which I'm also eager to try, although they don't have anything on their door about opening tomorrow) who said they were planning to open "late February." It's pretty bare bones in there still... I'm not holding my breath.

[bear]

Assuming this is the Pizzeria Posto, wood-fired pizza and pasta place that hiddenboston wrote about in Davis Square? Thanks for the update, and correct me if I'm wrong. Looking forward to it!

[hiddenboston]

bear, this is indeed the place. BTW, the Pulse Cafe (next door) will not be opening today as had originally been planned. Looks like it will be tomorrow now.

[Stride]

I'm sad to report that I got an email today from the sisters who run Bobalicious, saying they are closing. They didn't say when, so I'm not sure if they are still open or have already closed. I will miss their bahn mi and the friendly atmosphere of this little place.

[LStaff]

Oh noooo. Hope someone else will fill the bahn mi void in the area.

[Allstonian]

Barmy and I were in Nonantum today, and Bobalicious was open. Did the sisters sell out? Did they decide not to close after all? We weren't actually in the market for lunch (we were stopping in at Antoine's for zeppole and what turn out to be amazingly good hot cross buns) but we were parked right across the street for Bobalicious and they were definitely open.

[BostonZest]

Okay who has the task of reporting on that Zeppole?

over here
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/691561

Can't wait to hear about this one.

Penny
http://www.bostonzest.com/

[Allstonian]

There are already two mentions of Antoine's on that thread! But I shall obey -

[BostonZest]

Yes but I find I'm always happy following in your footsteps. Being a real food brat, I 'd love to have your take on it.

Penny
http://www.bostonzest.com/

[Stride]

I'm glad to know that they were still open! They sent an email back when I first posted about this, saying they were closing. They didn't say when, and I haven't been over there since to check it out and ask them what was up. Looks like I'll have to head over there and find out! Crossing my fingers that they found a way to stay...

[mangorita]

Not sure if it was reported elsewhere yet...but there is a sign hanging on the space in Braintree by the Union St. Rotary that briefly housed Capri indicating that they will be reopening soon as a Bickfords. (which is what was in there before Capri) I guess everything old is new again.

[hiddenboston]

What goes around comes around, I guess (no pun intended, though it is on a rotary--ok, I'll shut up now).

[RichardA]

La Stanza Diva in Woburn is currently closed per order of the Court. Not sure why.

[hiddenboston]

Just had a conversation with someone on Twitter about the Forest Cafe. Every time I call them, they say the place is open for the time being, but the person I was talking with on Twitter said it has been shut down the past couple of times she went by it. Any updates?

[frond]

A friend called the Forest on January 5th and they said they were going to stop serving food after that night but the bar would be open through January 10th. Neither of us has called since then.

[hiddenboston]

I just confirmed that the Forest Cafe has closed. No answer on the phone, and this post from a local writer: http://blog.ceciliatan.com/?p=108

[rsnyder]

The bar and the restaurant are indeed closed. A regular told me that it will reopen as a "natural food" restaurant. What a pitty.

[hiddenboston]

Yes, it will be another outlet of the Clear Conscience Cafe (the original is in Central Square).

[Chris VR]

The Fat Cactus on Route 1 still has work trucks outside (maybe a dumpster too), but one was a Coca-Cola truck so that makes me wonder if they're stocking it.

[Mr Bigglesworth]

Uburger is opening another location in Park Street (next to Lambert's.) I didn't need this so close to my office!

[nsenada]

Aaagh - hopefully it won't open until after my physical.

[esnaguy]

Is that a good review of UBurger?

[nsenada]

Yes, given that there are no other "fancy fast food" burgers anywhere near the financial district. I do prefer Five Guys, but I think uburger is pretty good, and I like their shakes.

[OLDCHEF]

Do they smash all the juice out of the burger like 5guys as well i hate that let it cook it is only a 4oz pattie I can wait the extra miniute

[nsenada]

I never really found either to be too dry, though it's been a while since I've had a uburger. Considering the fat content in the beef they must be using, I'm OK with them wringing it out a bit.

[mats77]

Any idea on when this will open?

[hiddenboston]

Right. The actual address will be 140 Tremont Street. No specific opening date as of yet.

[bear]

Sadly, Con Sol on Broadway in Cambridge has closed it's doors.

[hiddenboston]

Damn! I was just asking people about this place yesterday, as I was hoping to get there this month. Kind of a tough location (not much parking, little foot traffic), so I guess I'm not surprised.

[bear]

Yeah, it's sad. The food was solid mainstream Iberian, and the prices were really reasonable. Really tough location, though.

[djd]

The one time I went, granted it was a weeknight but the place was completely empty but for me and my date. Not a good sign, I thought.

[galleygirl]

Very unimpressive new wine store, in Brookline Village, called Brookline Gourmet and Fine Wine, or some such thing...In fairness, their shelves weren't fully stocked yet. But they're gonnah have to learn a LOT about dealing with the public if they're gonnah survive...I was in the store a full five minutes (one of two customers) and no one even greeted me...I think they're related to some events planner and caterer in Boston, so I guess they think it'll be lots of "fun" and they can ride his coat tails...Can you tell I was very sour on the place? Added to the fact that they didn't know much about any of their products kind of said a lot for me...
If you're not ready to open, then don't open. (toddles off mumbling under breath...)

[bonjourbruxelles]

Huh, interesting. I couldn't disagree with you more. I've been in three times, each time greeted with warmth and smiles. And information. My sense? They do know their stuff - and they are connected! Cantillon is not an easy Belgian beer to find and they carry it! Also-I found the wine to be priced within reason with a vast selection (Greek?). They are definitely filling a void in the Village. And I'm psyched they were able to open so quickly.

[galleygirl]

Three times? There wasn't enough in there to buy on three visits, and most of what I saw wasn't priced...They didn't know their local products (oops, they didin't have any!) and I guess they just didin't like my face as much as they did yours...Lots to learn about customer service...Too bad, because I'm their target customer. I live a block away, and spend a lot of my disposable income on wine and specialty foods...
What void would they be filling in the Village? I'd much rather buy my wine from the family-run place across from Family Restaurant. good everyday selection, FRIENDLY people...friendly to everyone...

Connected? I'm sure they are....

[lergnom]

My wife found Garofalo pasta there for the same price that Lambert's has for it. It's not just a wine store.

[galleygirl]

I believe I said it was a gourmet and wine store in my post....

[hiddenboston]

Has anyone found out the name of the Mexican restaurant moving into the old Beansprout location in Malden? I've been asking around, but no one seems to know.

[debidokun]

Don't know the name but they are doing walk-in interviews. Thus, if someone wants to work at a Mexican restaurant, they could go interview and then post the companies name here.

[nutzyP]

I work half a block from there and I am always tempted to go inside and ask. Now I will. I spent 15 years in CA and I yearn for good mexican.

[Joanie]

I was quite shocked to see Tia's closed. Anyone know what's up? I know no one really cares but it seemed odd. I'm assuming a remodeling before the weather gets better but didn't walk over to see if there was a sign on the door.

[hiddenboston]

Tia's? God, I have so many horrible memories of that place. I'll never forget a conversation I overheard there one night. [Man] So what do you two girls do for a living? [Woman] We're prostitutes. [Man] Oh, really? Do you like what you do?

[nsenada]

Still, it seems to always be packed to the gills with junior stock brokers and their roofied quarry. I imagine the regulars eventually require Drakkar poisoning treatment, and heavy doses of penicillin.

[Joanie]

I actually called the Marriott and he said they close for the winter. Has that always been the case? Supposedly will open again in the spring so everyone can still hook up by the waterfront while enjoy Bud lights.

[hiddenboston]

Doh! They do indeed close for the winter. I lead walks through Boston that include going right by the place a few times each winter, too. Yes, I am an ignoramus.

[nsenada]

Might just have been wishful thinking. I wonder where the charming folks you overheard "winter?"

[hiddenboston]

Clarke's? :-b

[Bob Dobalina]

Quote from a co-worker: "Huh - guess it's d-bag night tonight..."

At the Vault.

So that gets my vote.

[Pegmeister]

I was just going to say that. Tia's closes every October and doesn't open up again til late spring.

[bobot]

Sad to say I've been to Tia's twice, and both times spent most of the evening watching incredibly drunk people trying to walk through the floor-to-ceiling glass.

[hiddenboston]

I've done that before. :-D

[hotoynoodle]

the watching or the walking? ;)

[hiddenboston]

Yes. :-D

[CreativeFoodie42]

Just walked by it today and noticed the Olde Boston Cafe on Water Street (at the old Boloco spot) is now open.

[hiddenboston]

I've been trying to get info on the Olde Boston Cafe, but to no avail. No website, no phone number, no nothing. Has anyone been in there yet?

[nsenada]

I might check it out tomorrow

[CreativeFoodie42]

Walked by it again today but didn't get a chance to go in. Their menu posted shows a few sandwiches and a few salads, and also a breakfast menu. Will try to hit it up next week.

[nsenada]

Forgot to mention, I went there today for lunch. They seem like very nice people, and were very interested in how people liked their food, and did offer to give customers a different sandwich if they didn't like what they originally got. It looks like fairly standard lunch offerings, somewhat along the lines of Al's. I got a pretty giant roast beef sub for $5.45, with oil and vinegar and provolone (a "Paul Revere," I think). It was pretty good, but in retrospect, they had steak and cheese (and some other hot subs) which I will probably try on my next visit.

[Pegmeister]

Just reading in the Ledger this morning that Dave & Busters is proposing a restaurant at Braintree Plaza. They want to move into the old Circuit City building. Fair amount of opposition though.

[RichardA]

There is now a sign up for Sam's Bistro in Reading. This will be a new restaurant ( by the owners of Stearns and Hill's Bistro in Melrose). It is located on Main St, at the site of the old Wayside Bazaar. The building construction though still has a ways to go, and I don't think it will be open until at least the spring.

[nsenada]

Just got an email from Pressed Sandwiches - apparently they are "temporarily closing their doors."

[hiddenboston]

And they have temporarily suspended all their catering as well. Hmmmm......

[BellatrixStar]

UGH NOOOO I will be so sad if Pressed closes :-(

[hiddenboston]

BellatrixStar, I just found out that they have indeed closed (all three of their locations, actually). Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. :-(

[BellatrixStar]

Tragic...the owner was such a nice guy and really loved his business not to mention everytime I ordered there sandwiches for office lunches, my boss would give me a nice pat on the back.

[Gordough]

No big loss. Pressed was severely overpriced for what it was. It was an ok sandwich but not worth $11 with a drink and chips.

[Joanie]

I only went there once or twice but are there that many places you can buy a sandwich combo for much less than $11 these days? $9 might be more like it but you seldom see an interesting sandwich w/ chips and drink for $5 or 6 anymore.

[jgg13]

Yeah, I'm definitely not a fan. When they were in Central Sq, I couldn't stand it. Everything tasted pretty bland, and it was expensive to boot.

[nsenada]

One of my big issues with them was size. If I'm going to pay that much for a sandwich, I want it give me that nice hug on the inside, that tells me everything's gonna be alright, and it's OK to grossly overeat if you pay over $10 for your lunch. If they made up for the tiny portions with really awesome ingredients and flavors, I would have gone there more often. I do think La Grassa has the price/size/quality formula just right.

[jgg13]

I was going to mention La Grassa as I was reading your post :) With that place I'd rather they had something half the size for half the cost, but I generally don't eat dinner when I have a sandwich there, so it kind of works out.

[hiddenboston]

Not sure if anyone has heard, but The Kells in Allston is going to be replaced by a new Tavern in the Square (thanks to Dan Andelman of the PG for this info).

[BarmyFotheringayPhipps]

I do hope this means the owner of The Kells is no longer involved.

[bear]

Here, here.

[hotoynoodle]

put down your knives and fists.

[scratchie]

I won't stand by and let you slander that fine upstanding member of the Allston-Brighton community!

What? You said "The Kells"? Never mind.

[phonelady]

La Stanza Diva, Woburn is now closed.

[Boston Penguin]

Does anyone know the story on this?

[Dea]

I noticed Banjos on Mass Ave in Cambridge has a big "OPEN!" sign in their window. Has anyone been?

[yumyum]

Can someone help me? What's the big deal with Banjos? I gather it's a burger and hot dog kinda place. Are they very VERY good burgers and dogs? If not, why do chowhounds care?

[nsenada]

I think we need the buildup, in order for our pronouncements of "meh" to seem more devastating.

[hiddenboston]

We care about everything (well, except for Applebee's).

[yumyum]

See but actually we don't. We only care about good food, and deliciousness. What's up with Banjo's and why do I care?

[nsenada]

It has a minor buzz about it right now, same as all the other new spots that people anticipate for months. I still regret not saving some of the Lord Hobo posts before they were deleted, both pre and post opening. We're all looking for some culinary thrills, cheap or otherwise. So until I figure out whether it's more comparable to the gross Riley's Roast Beef most recent occupant, or something Kelly's would be envious of, I'll be muttering "Banjo's..." in my sleep, and trying to interject it into every conversation.

[yumyum]

Yes but you are insane. And you cannot have any of it until AFTER the physical. Kay?

[nsenada]

So true, on both counts.

[Bob Dobalina]

I think it's the roast beef for some?

[hiddenboston]

It looks like Bowl Haven in Somerville is kinda sorta open again. Sounds like they are keeping the alleys open while they work on the rest of the space. Flatbread s/b moving in there sometime in May, give or take.

Also, EVOO is shutting its doors in Somerville this coming Sunday (at the end of Valentine's Day) and may be moving into its new spot in Cambridge as early as later this month.

[hiddenboston]

Probably not February, but a new restaurant called Joe & Jake's is going to be opening on Route 1 in Norwood where the Ground Round used to be.

[CreativeFoodie42]

While Johnnie's on the Side has been re-opened for awhile, I just realized that they are now called West End Johnnie's. Not sure when the name change happened. Same menu though.

[ineemeeny]

Joanne Chang's tweets revealed Flour 3's newest location - Central Square! She said she's excited to have Central Bottle as a new neighbor! She didn't say when it's opening, (probably not February, but I thought this would be the place to post this...) since it's not 100% official just yet. But yay!

[Allstonian]

June, according to Devra First's post on boston.com:
http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/food/...

[maxinboston]

Olecito Brookline now has pink paper covering the windows and door. Not a particularly exciting development, but a development...

[maninblack]

Must have run out of money. I'm not hopeful.

[hckybg]

They took months and months to open the first Olecito. It went maybe 7 or even 9 months from start to finish. So don't lose hope.

[nader]

Saw someone inside Olecito on Sunday night (11pm!) pressure-cleaning the floors. I wanted to stop and ask what was going on, but didn't have the time. At least there's something happening!!

[hotoynoodle]

walked by stoddard's today. lol. still NOT open. sign says "mid-february", which would be, er, now, but still looking very unfinished.

[Allstonian]

February 16, according to Devra First (during online chat on boston.com yesterday.)

[cbw_chowfan]

Any idea if Stoddard's is open yet?? It's now the 18th. I almost ventured over there last night to find out, but decided to wait and hear that it had actually opened first.

[nsenada]

It's getting to be like that Monty Python Cheese Shop sketch.

[hotoynoodle]

not yet. supposedly mid week, next, lol.

[hiddenboston]

I bet that with the 4-day storm coming this week, they may be pushed back yet again, but perhaps I'll be wrong about that--we'll see!

[catsmeow]

I noticed some work going on inside the now defunct Z restaurant on Comm Ave near Kenmore. Anyone know if something is finally going in there?

[pemma]

Not very exciting, but a Margharita's restauraunt is going to open at Station Landing in Medford, I believe in the spring. It appears to be part of a New England chain of Tex-Mex restaurants.

[Walthamfoodman]

There's a Margharita's on Moody St in Waltham. Nothing spectacular going on there.

[hiddenboston]

A bit south of Boston, and probably not open until early March, but Oro will be opening in the restored Welch Building on Scituate Harbor. Looks like an upscale restaurant with local seafood featured.

[MichelaAnne]

OK, this is waaaay up north, but Cala's in Manchester-by-the-Sea is re-opening this weekend as more of a bar/pub joint than the restaurant it used to be. Hopefully it will breathe new life -- we need a decent place to grab a bite up here.

[hckybg]

And we need a beautiful beach down here--trade you for it!

[hiddenboston]

Yeah, I've been reading about the reopening of Cala's--saw some job postings out there for the place and read a little blurb somewhere on it. If you go, let us know what you think!

[Bob MacAdoo]

Did I miss something about Hot Tomatoes inteh North End? Went by to try their "Sloppy Joe" but the door was locked and windows papered over. :( Of course, this was nothing that a porchetta sandwich at Artu could not smooth over.

[nsenada]

I hope it's just temporary - I love that sloppy joe sandwich.

[Aromatherapy]

Per a poster I saw at Frio Rico, Eastie, Pollos a la Brasa is opening another location on Cambridge St. in Allston. No indication of when. (Loved the beef empanada at FR.)

[Allstonian]

Yes, there's been a "Coming Soon" sign in the window of El Cafetal in Union Square for months now. Not clear whether it will be a complete change in restaurant or if El Cafetal is adding that to its menu, though from your report it sounds like a change in restaurant.

[Aromatherapy]

The sign was reporting it as their third location.

[galangatron]

it's both el cafetal and el chalan. they have a colombian menu and a peruvian menu

[djd]

Ended up getting takeout from here last night, and bringing it three doors down to the Model. (The Model was not, I repeat not, plan A.) These guys are trying to be everything to everyone: Peruvian chicken menu, breakfast menu, big restaurant-style menu (but not a soul eating in that huge space), Allston-kid taco/burrito menu painted up above the counter. Totally overwhelming, though granted it had its amusing aspect: The man and woman on duty squabbled amiably about whether my boyfriend should order Peruvian or Colombian chicharrones. I ended up just telling them what I wanted.

Most of the big "restaurant" menu had prices steeper than I wanted to pay under the circumstances (I just can't see spending $13 on an anything plate to bring to the Model, or to eat in a cold, empty room for that matter) but I got vast quantities of food for $18. As I said, bizarre all around.

Anyway the pupusas (stuffed arepas, officially, yes?) were tasty but very heavy--food shouldn't get that soggy after five minutes in styrofoam; didn't try the chich., but the accompanying yuca seemed overly dry; sweet plantains could've used more cooking time. All fine under the circumstances, but I wouldn't make a special trip.

[itaunas]

Pollos a la Brasa El Chalan.

Aromatherapy did you notice a flyer advertising a benefit "anticuchera" mentioning antecuchos de pollo, apparently as a benefit for 3 peruan youngsters at some church (?) in Chelsea? I got that much info in passing a flyer in Chelsea, but when I went back I couldn't find it again. I didn't notice the date, but wanted to find out more.

[Aromatherapy]

Nope, sorry.

[chickendhansak]

The Roadhouse in Brookline had its last night last night. Apparently it will re-open after seven days as an "American artisanal" restaurant, keeping the beer they have currently but new chef, new menu, locally sourced, etc. American Artisanal may even be the new name.

[Spenbald]

American Craft appears to be the name:

http://www.eatgoodfooddrinkbetterbeer...

[MC Slim JB]

So, it appears that the replacement for The Roadhouse will be the same team behind The Roadhouse and The Publick House, yes? I suspect having to shut down the smoker doomed them. It's tough doing BBQ in a residential area: ask Danny Meyer: http://www.nytimes.com/2002/03/27/dining/where-the-smoke-rises-and-rises.html

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[chickendhansak]

That's how it would seem. The server didn't give the impression it was also his last night. The menu, by the end, was a confused mix of Tex Mex, Cajun style, burgers and hot dogs, etc., with a small section of BBQ. We ended up there because Publick House was rammed, and needed quick service, which we cheerfully received, along with assistance going through what they no longer could serve from the menu.

I'd certainly try the new place but see the change equally as another chance to spread the crowds out from PH. It always seems like the place is rammed with punters ordering random food and drink in apparent indifference to the Belgian stuff, while those of us who've trekked all the way across town for the beer are stuck virtually pressing our noses up against the windows like Victorian urchins.

[yumyum]

"rammed with punters" should be used in more reviews. Of the places that I should avoid. Thanks for the laff!

[jgg13]

yes, same crew, just a rebranding. new joint is supposed to open in a week or so.

[danyboy]

How many times are they going to try to re-brand before they just close?! Everytime i have eaten there which is 6 or 7 their menu has changed. Ussually they take something off that i really want. I know the neighbors made them abandom the smoker, but they had problems well before that. They have repeatedly changed chefs and menus. If it is a tru locally grown restaurant (which is needed around here) then i would consider trying it, but I probably wont. they have changed too many times... While speaking to the manager a few months back, i warned that if they keep changing the menu, they would lose more and more customers. Its never good when a business fails, but they need to look beyond the food and change the management.

[Joanie]

I don't think anyone's mentioned the new cafe in the bookstore in JP that's next to Purple Cactus. It's downstairs and seems to be a little bit of bbq and Jamaican stuff, very random menu. Can't remember the name.

[66corvair]

J Way Cafe is the name

[MC Slim JB]

Odd name, since it's not located on the J Way, or the "Jamaica Raceway", as we always called it: a scary road, is the former Route 1, now just the Jamaicaway.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[jpcat]

The name of the bookstore is Jamaicaway Books - thus the name of the cafe.

[bostonbroad]

Something called Cafe Rialto is moving into the old Corner Square Bakery Space (didn't last long) on Washington Street heading into Rozzie Square.

[RoxyB]

Brookline's Jae's Cafe on Beacon Street at St. Paul has closed and will reopen in March as Buddhachen:
http://buddachen.com/
http://bostonrestaurants.blogspot.com...

[hiddenboston]

Not February, but the Agave Grille will be opening in on Medford Street in Malden (where the Beansprout used to be), probably around mid-March.

[hiddenboston]

The Deluxe Town Diner in Watertown may be opening a new diner in Newton Centre (still has to be approved by the city of Newton).

[Gordough]

That would be huge news for the area where good breakfast options are severely limited.

[Northstar22]

A New Sports bar is opening on RTE 1 Norwood sometime in May. It is going into the Pld Ground Round Spot.

[hiddenboston]

Right. It will be called Joe & Jake's. Nice to see that something is going into that spot, as it has been shuttered for quite some time now.

[Alcachofa]

The place is called Joe & Jake's, and it's on Rt 1 in Norwood. Hmm. Don't really need more info on that one, do we?

[Northstar22]

well cranky my sources confirm a sportsbar will open and it is by the same owners of Chateau and they will open mid may.hope this meets your deadline.

[MC Slim JB]

Per the Globe, the Petit Robert Bistro folks are opening Chez Jacky, a lower-priced, family-style French place in what is (used to be?) the current location of Zocalo in Brighton, which I knew was for sale but had not yet heard was closing.

Please don't call it Chez Jacky's.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[Northstar22]

sources claim they are also behind a satellite location at Felt.

[MC Slim JB]

Not sure I understand this, Northstar: are you saying that the Petit Robert people are going to start serving French bistro fare at Felt in Downtown Crossing?

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[heavydee]

I noticed today that what I think is the dinner menu for Petit Robert prominently displayed on the front window of Felt. There is no other signage to indicate what exactly that means, but maybe it's reasonable to assume that PRB is taking over the restaurant functions in Felt? It seems a little odd to me.

[MC Slim JB]

I love this idea -- Felt's food sucks -- but I'm a little surprised. Petit Robert's PR machine is already touting Chez Jacky when the ink isn't dry on the sale of the Zocalo space in Brighton. I guess I would have expected some advance news of this kind of deal to have been deliberately bruited sooner.

Of course, another diabolically clever way to achieve that same end would be to leak it on Chowhound....

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[Kinopio]

I've also heard that they are opening a huge PRB near Kendall Square.

[MC Slim JB]

Ha! Sounds like we need to start a separate thread for Petit Robert expansion rumors!

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[Kinopio]

This was told to me by a waitress who works at the south end location. She had seen the floor plans for the Kendall location earlier that day. But this was maybe 9 months ago so who knows.

[Northstar22]

My sources tell me they received the first of many bread orders this week. Jacky is really pushing his Brand MC.

[MC Slim JB]

Grub Street Boston just confirmed that PRB has a pop-up restaurant already operating inside of Felt; it will continue at least until April and possibly longer.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[hotoynoodle]

and that "the gallows" will be going into the sage space. more f***ing comfort food.

yawn.

[hiddenboston]

I was just writing about this place, actually. The people behind it are from Vee Vee in JP and The Biltmore in Newton Upper Falls, so I'm thinking it may be a bit more than everyday comfort food.

[MC Slim JB]

Well, there's comfort food, and there's comfort food.

I remember those folks doing their own salumi and charcuterie and pickles at The Biltmore three years ago, and in general everything I remember trying there was outstanding of its type. Great beer list and solid, craft-leaning cocktails. I was very disappointed when the first-time owner ditched them for a more Ninety-Nine type concept; that opening team had put together the best combo of food, drinks, and hospitality that I'd run into in a neighborhood place in a long time.

I've read that they're significantly redoing the former Sage space, bringing in a lot of old barn siding, going for more of a 19th-century tavern kind of feel. Depending on how they price it, The Gallows could be a very welcome new kind of place in the South End. To me, it sounds more like Garden at The Cellar than Max & Dylan's. You could call what Will Gilson does "comfort food", too, but I think that sells it short.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[hotoynoodle]

i'm sorry. i am already very bored with $20 fish and chips and $18 hamburgers everywhere. and they just keep coming.

[almansa]

I think I'd call Will's food gastropub cuisine, like Hugo's in Portland, though less ambitious.

[MC Slim JB]

I'd agree with that term for Gilson's food, but I think Hugo's has a lot more in common with Craigie on Main in terms of style and approach.

http://mcslimjb.blogspot.com/

[almansa]

I agree, but I feel the urge to dress more nicely @ Cragie than Hugo's. Hugo's has more of a hipster vibe. And Will is turning to the vacuum sealer and thermal circulator more than ever now, a la Tony Maws who cooks seemingly everything underwater.

[Alcachofa]

Ottimo's on High Street is closed. So-so place, but when their chicken and lemon and artichoke dish was done right, it was pretty good. As with many (all?) fast food Italian places, even if the sauce is OK, the pasta is usually way overcooked. Still, it filled an occasional craving.

[hiddenboston]

Has anyone heard any updates on The Citizen in the Fenway area? Is this still going to happen, or did it fall through?

[OLDCHEF]

Is that the same citizen that is out in western ma.

[hiddenboston]

No, this one is/was connected with the Franklin Cafe.

[Joanie]

I'm clueless about this, where's it supposed to be?

[hiddenboston]

I don't want to post a link to my blog, but here's a snippet from what I wrote awhile back: "...one of the owners of The Franklin Cafe in the South End is behind the proposed opening of The Citizen, which will likely be a similar restaurant to The Franklin, although a bit less expensive..."

[Joanie]

Thanks but where's it supposed to be? Or should I just read it on hb.com?

[hiddenboston]

Oh, I wouldn't go to that site. :-b

It is/was supposed to be in the new 1330 Boylston building, which is where Upper Crust is (and Basho will be). Still don't know if this has fallen through, though. Anyone?

[hotoynoodle]

i've heard it' still a go.

[babka eater]

Though it is not a February opening, Floating Rock (according to its facebook page) is expecting to open at 485 Mass Ave in Central Square in late May or early June. It is nice to know that Floating Rock is continuing its project to open in Cambridge.

[jgg13]

Cool, I was just thinking about this yesterday and wondering if it was still slated to happen.

[bear]

Saw a Grand Opening banner for Formosa Taipei in the old short-lived Denian's in Lexington, so I stopped in for a menu. It's basically take-out, and the menu looks somewhat promising for the burbs. They advertise weekend dim sum, three cups dishes, twice-cooked pork belly and a couple of lamb dishes, takeout hot pot (?).

A quote from the About Us section: the chefs are "Mr. & Mrs. Lee whom known as 'Ah-Ma' in the very popular restaurant they used to own in MA."

http://formosa-taipei.com/index.html

[hiddenboston]

The Fat Cactus in Lynnfield is finally going to open (hopefully!). Looks like next week.

[gutterman]

Java Joes in Jp has paper up in the windows. I don't know if its a reno or a closing.

[hiddenboston]

I just called Java Jo's and they said they will be opening for lunch today.

[gutterman]

yeah, just renovations they re-did the floor.

g

[fueledbyfood]

I saw a Chipotle sign up on a storefront on Needham Street in Newton but no idea when it's opening up exactly.

[sqboo]

I saw one in North(?) Andover in the old Fresh City spot. No date, but I hope it's soon!

[hiddenboston]

Not sure if anyone has mentioned this before, but Scoozi is opening a new spot near Kenmore Square (in the old Z Square space).

[Joanie]

Someone did mention work being done there. Not the most exciting turn of events. I can't believe there's still not a place in kenmore sq. where you can get a slice of pizza (Scoozi doesn't have slices does it?).

[hiddenboston]

They actually do have slices, but only during the day (no slices at dinnertime).

[lergnom]

Cutty's in Brookline Village opened on 2/20. Where the oddly named, not missed Frankie & the Boys was.

Has a website: http://www.cuttyfoods.com/

[rlove]

New Nepalese joint, Yak and Yeti, to open at 719 Broadway in Ball Sq in Somerville.

The Boston area has quite a few Nepal restaurants now.

Interestingly, Yak & The Yeti is the name of a Nepalese-themed, pan-asian-serving restaurant in Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom.

Source: http://bostonrestaurants.blogspot.com...

[hckybg]

Not opening in February, but Devra First reported the other day that there is already a new tenant for the old EVOO space on dining corner (Beacon and Kirkland): Bergamot, a "progressive American" restaurant:
http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/food/...

[hiddenboston]

El Pelon Taqueria is going to reopen soon, but in a new location (across from BC in Brighton). Looks like a March opening.

[Gordough]

Would this be in the old College Subs spot on Comm. Ave?

[hiddenboston]

Not entirely sure which space it will be in--still trying to find out.

[hynespb]

I think it is the old college sub space. I saw a few guys bringing in some supplies into the spot when i was at campus (city) convenience. I didn't know what it was but now I couldn't be more excited!!

[hiddenboston]

It is--I just confirmed it. Also, some really good news--it looks like El Pelon may also reopen on Peterborough Street. No idea when, though.

[Chris VR]

In Melrose, there's brown paper on the windows and a sign saying Busy Bee Bakery coming soon (or something like that) on the storefront just over the RR tracks on Wyoming- the one that was previously The Fairground. It's right across from Corner Deli... Hurd Street it seems. Can Melrose really support a 4th bakery, in addition to Sweet Tooth, Peacuddy's and Bread and Bits of Ireland? I have my doubts, although the last few things I've gotten from Sweet Tooth Bakery had that "off" refrigerator taste and I'm getting pretty tired of paying their high prices for sub-par goods. I've had Peacuddy's cupcakes recently and they're pretty good. Bread and Bits is generally good although not where I'd go looking for cakes/cupcakes. So... maybe the odds are better than I thought. Especially if they carry good bread, which is severely lacking in Melrose.

[almansa]

I've been relatively impressed on three visits to Peacuddy's, but I haven't allowed my expectations to rise too high. I did find it amusing that amid all the fancy tea promo decorating the space, my wife received Lipton's (which was fine w/ her).

[Chris VR]

We're been having lunch there regularly lately. The quiche has been good, the mac & cheese a bit bland, sandwiches fine, rustic bread pretty good, chocolate chip cookie very good and cupcakes have been hit and miss. The regular cupcakes aren't bad but a chocolate raspberry-filled cupcake was really not good at all. The filling was just weird and I wondered if it was a bit old and starting to ferment. I really do like the atmosphere and it's a place I'm glad to have around, but I think keeping expectations at a reasonable level is exactly the key to enjoying it.

[bonhomme1]

I saw that Ciao Bella on Newbury St. is renovating. For some reason the sign says 'thanks for your patronage" which sounds like it is done? Anyone know anything? It is a mediocre restaurant but had nice outdoor seating

[hiddenboston]

For once, a restaurant that says "closed for renovations" is actually doing just that! :-b
They will be reopening sometime this spring once the renovations are done.

[hotoynoodle]

they are expanding, believe it or not. guy who owns the place and the building took over more cojoining space

[hiddenboston]

Not February, but got an update on Kelly's Roast Beef in Allston. They have definitely gained approval to go ahead with their plans, and are hoping to open by April at the corner of Harvard and Commonwealth.

[hiddenboston]

A family-friendly restaurant called Twitters (no, I'm not making this up) is coming to Route 1 in Saugus. Look for a March opening.