Metropolis Still a Neighborhood Gem; New Rosebud Shines; More

With the closing of Hamersley's this week, Devra First checked in on another South End institution and in her Globe review found that the revamped Metropolis "now looks like a cleaner, more modern Parisian nook: black-and-white tile floors, marble bar, brick walls painted cream, indigo accents, shiny red benches flanking the entrance, and a new sign." Even with the new look, "the room is cozy as ever, with booths just big enough for approximately 1.75 people," keeping it "a place to come with friends."

Meanwhile, the Globe's Catherine Smart reports that despite its diner car exterior, "the new Rosebud American Kitchen & Bar is a full-fledged restaurant, one that offers a level of food and service that might surprise you." She concludes that while "many Somervillians were sad to see the shuttering of Rosebud Diner," they might change their minds once they "settle into a plush leather booth at the new Rosebud, sip a delicious strong cocktail, and dig into Delpha's eclectic, inventive, and well-executed take on roadhouse food."

First also takes a quick look in at newly opened Viale and finds that "pasta dishes are a highlight, composed of layered flavors that make an impression: duck cappellacci with Marsala, foie gras butter, cipollini onion, and mushrooms; saffron fettuccine with lobster, squid, tomato, chile, and rapini leaves."