One lunch in Boston

[estragon]

Quick trip to Boston coming up this week. Morning meeting near Mass Ave. and Boylston. Where should we go for lunch? Looking for something distinctive and creative.

Anyone?

[teezeetoo]

If you don't mind a bit of a walk, head to kenmore and Eastern Standard Kitchen. If you have time and want to settle in for a superb lunch (and I mean at least two hours) head to L'Espalier.

[BostonZest]

Ah, early morning brain fog... Two great suggestions. There is also the Salon at L'Espalier if you want a taste of the best.

[estragon]

Thank you.

L'Espalier is a possibility, as we have nothing for the rest of the day, but it's quite a commitment, time- and price-wise.

Eastern Standard Kitchen is a possibility, for sure.

But since we're footloose and fancy-free after our meeting, we can go anywhere that's more or less easily accessible by cab or transit. So... best non-break-the-bank lunch on a rare visit to Boston?

[BostonZest]

One of my regular treats is a afternoon of nibbling at small plates at Coppa Enoteca in the South End.

http://www.coppaboston.com/

Good wine, great menu, great service, relaxed atmosphere.

[Madrid]

or toro or neptune oyster. you'll enjoy walking around the neighborhood at either.

[estragon]

Coppa and Toro both look like winners. Thanks, all!

[marais]

Coppa and Toro (on Sunday) have excellent lunches, but are a pricey cab ride from your location. Instead, have an excellent Cannes-style bistro lunch at La Voile on Newbury St. All the waitstaff are from Provence, the food is solid bistro and you will love it...at least I do!

[Gabatta]

Taxi will be less than $10

[estragon]

We went to Coppa. (Taxi was $11 with tip.) By the time we got there, it was almost 2, and it was empty, which I gather is not the usual state of affairs.

I think this was about the closest thing to a perfect lunch that I've ever had. Wish I had a second stomach.

[BostonZest]

So happy you tried Coppa and enjoyed it. It is often find it quiet in the late afternoon but that is fine with me. My husband is great company and very good at sharing food!

[BostonZest]

In that area you are best trying one of the small ethnic restaurants because it is a wasteland of restaurant chains.

Pho Basil on Mass Ave
Chili Duck across from the Prudential Center
Cafe Jaffa on Gloucester Street between Newbury and Boylston.
Mei Tei Noodle Cafe on Hereford Street
Trident Booksellers Cafe on Newbury.
Le Voile on Newbury.

I think they are all open for lunch.

Penny
http://www.bostonzest.com/