Looking for a restaurant with a very nice "relish tray" and good shrimp dip, too.

[Swankalicious]

So, my elderly Swank relatives are coming for a visit. Palates are tame -- VERY tame. A family favorite for many years was Newton's Pillar House, if any of you remember that spot. Another favorite has been Anthony's Pier 4. They'll be in town for a couple of days before heading down to New York. I'd like to treat them to a couple of nice meals out. I was considering Locke-Ober, but I think that might be too pricey/fussy for them. We basically want a good value and old-fashioned, hearty food. Bonus if the desserts are served and chosen from a tray and a salad or appetizer is included in entree price.
Northern or Western suburbs are OK.
Help?

-----
Locke-Ober
3 Winter Place, Boston, MA 02108

Anthony's Pier 4 Restaurant
140 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210

[pikawicca]

I don't believe that I've ever encountered Shrimp Dip. Is this a regional thing?

[Bellachefa]

This time of year a visit to The Wayside Inn might be enjoyable for atmosphere, grist mill, foliage, Martha Mary chapel, Little Red School House and although I haven't been in a few years the food is servicable, mediocre and perfect for tame palates. Sundays dinners include app, entree and dessert.

http://www.wayside.org/about

[trufflehound]

The Old Mill in Westminster, for the Prime Rib. They have cheese and crackers in the pub, don't remember but I think they have the relish tray.

[Gabatta]

Check out the Winthrop Arms. I'm not sure about the relish tray, but the rest of it fits the bill.

[edgewater]

I agree on The Continental. Angelica's in Middleton is owned by the same people.

[galleygirl]

Yes, Galleymom waxes euphoric about the passed apps....

[pemma]

Cafe Escadrille in Burlington could work.

-----
Cafe Escadrille
26 Cambridge St, Burlington, MA 01803

[RichardinJP]

Definitely, the Continental on Route 1 in Saugus. On Sundays, and perhaps other days of the week, "free" passed appetizers include chicken wings, spinach pie, corn fritters and popovers. You are also provided with a bean dip and cottage cheese along with crackers. Included with your meal are rolls and a salad. Entrees are very traditional. My favorites include baked stuffed lobster, stuffed shrimp and prime rib.

[bgavin]

Cottage cheese and saltine crackers are the give away.
Another idea is Brackett's in Rockport.
http://www.bracketts.com/

[shaebones]

Check out Angelica's in Middleton

[Snowflake]

Check the website for 75 Chestnut. I think it would appeal to all in your party.

-----
75 Chestnut
75 Chestnut Street, Boston, MA 02114

[food_lubber]

The first place that comes to mind that may fit the bill is the Continental on Route 1. That is my grandparents favorite :special occasion" meal, and the servers bring out various passed appetizers while you wait for youer meal (turnovers, chicken wings, fritters, etc) and I do recall some sort od cold bean dip, a giant wedge of cheese and crackers in the lounge area.

[Chris B.]

The Continental in Saugus is exactly the place that you are looking for.

[Niblet]

I thought the exact same thing. Passed apps and popovers: just the ticket.
Edit: just realized how many others agreed, should've read down before replying.

[hckybg]

I haven't ever been, but what about Mount Vernon Restaurant? It seems pretty old school but still nice.

I am not sure you will find a relish tray anywhere, all the restaurants of my youth that had them have since had to stop the practice due to health codes. But I didn't grow up in Massachusetts, maybe the rules are different here.

[Karl S]

<delete>

[hckybg]

Really? Not a good choice? Or is my comment moderator bait?

[Karl S]

No, I thought you might be thinking of the Saugus location, but I was wrong (2 of the MV's locations just closed, including the Saugus location).