Brightwinds

Really spectacular, well-executed, great service, fantastic wine list, interesting concept, delicious menu, great location, beautiful ambience, well run kitchen, just spectacular! I wish I could go again and again.

For tea I usually like to go to Tealuxe more, but do have to put in a plug for their lemon and ginger tea. Its home-made and fresh, the ginger is strong, and with some honey it can be just what you need when you’re sick. The atmosphere is nice, however, with some big tables that are great for studying at, windows at the front for good natural light, and outlets all around for your computer. But a word of caution, they aren’t open very late, so it is a better morning or afternoon destination than an after-dinner one.

These guys were pretty good. They’re known for their ceviche, of which I thought the halibut was really spectacular—had a good kick to it and a balance of flavors. Their fire and ice ceviche could have been better, I would definitely branch out on that part of the menu. For mains I ordered the lobster xim xim which was good but also a little rich. We also got a chance to try the crispy skin pork— a little dry, but a great idea. Cocktails were really strong there, as a warning. The setup looks to be great for a group of friends, it’s a little loud for small groups. Service was good, overall a good time!

Very well priced for the quality of food, and the perfect place for groups. Their arancini are delicious, but you really can’t go wrong with any of the items on the menu. The atmosphere is quiet and intimate, the service friendly, and the wine list reliable. If the weather holds then walk down the block to Boston Commons for a stroll through the park.

Truly a creative take on tapas, Toro brings new flavors out for good prices. Some classic dishes, like cheese and corn and ceviche, are just well done and well presented, while others, such as their foie gras with apricot compote (if I remember correctly), are creative with great flavors. The atmosphere is fun, with a long communal table in the middle and small nooks on the sides. Be prepared to wait a little until getting seated, but it is well worth it as Chef Ken Oringer presents yet again that he knows exactly what he’s doing.

Truly a creative take on tapas, Toro brings new flavors out for good prices. Some classic dishes, like cheese and corn and ceviche, are just well done and well presented, while others, such as their foie gras with apricot compote (if I remember correctly), are creative with great flavors. The atmosphere is fun, with a long communal table in the middle and small nooks on the sides. Be prepared to wait a little until getting seated, but it is well worth it as Chef Ken Oringer presents yet again that he knows exactly what he’s doing.

Although this was restaurant week, one of their busiest weeks of the year, I found that Rialto did not stand up to its reputation. The service was rushed and quite poor, the food so-so, and the rooms quite noisy. I felt that they could have done a better job with being attentive and that their menu offerings need a little more flavor. Restaurant week should be when they’re at their best, being the chance to advertise to a large audience about the quality of their restaurant, and Rialto made me feel that it would not be worth my time again.