[Photos: Rachel Leah Blumenthal]
The owners of The Paramount (Beacon Hill and South Boston) have just soft opened a new Southie spot, Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant, which presents a comfort food menu in the open space of a former department store. The tile-and-wood floor, long bar, and brick walls give the space a speakeasy feel with a little more breathing room, although diners can cozy up in a booth or the back dining room for less exposure. The back room also offers a smaller bar, a view of the wood-burning brick oven, and a small raised stage that could one day feature live music, if the restaurant succeeds in obtaining an entertainment license. The main room, mostly full of booths on the side not dominated by the bar, also has a small cafe-like space on the patterned tile floor by the large front windows, perfecting for brunching and people-watching. Nicholas Dixon, previously the executive chef of Lucky's Lounge, heads the kitchen.
The dinner menu offers upscale pub fare, from kobe sliders (bacon aioli, muenster cheese, sunny-side-up quail egg) to oven-braised short ribs (truffled mac and cheese, fried onions). There is also a selection of six wood-fired pizzas, and Cambridge-based Grillo's Pickles make an appearance as a side. Don't miss dessert, though; Nutella flatbread sounds like it's worth some stomach space. And potential highlights of the weekend brunch? Gingerbread pancakes. Fried chicken and waffles. Breakfast pizza. A small late night menu is served until 1 AM, offering the six pizzas and some appetizers.
The cocktail list is approachable but influenced by the growing craft trend, featuring drinks such as the Ward 6: Bulleit Bourbon, maple liquor, and sweet vermouth. The beer list, with 14 brews on tap and 25 bottles, doesn't hold too many surprises (Sam Adams, PBR, Miller, etc.), although casual beer enthusiasts may be happy to see classic selections like Rogue Dead Guy, Dogfish Head 60 Minute IPA, and Duvel. No glass of wine exceeds $10, and the selection includes an even split of whites and reds.
The neighborhood has already been welcoming, with nearby residents wandering in during the afternoon to compliment the space and the first seven Yelp reviewers unanimously giving five stars. "The short ribs were UNBELIEVABLE!!!" exclaimed one reviewer. "Awesome-balls," wrote another. "YESSSSS!!!!!!" typed another, somewhat excitedly. Looks like things are off to a good start.
· Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant [Yelp]
· Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant [Official Site]
· All coverage of Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant on Eater [~EBOS~]
