The Early Word on Branch Line

The Ambiance News: Branch Line may be tough to get to, but it's worth it once you're there, according to The Boston Globe's Kara Baskin. The place gets crowded, forcing a 45-minute wait at times, but the after-work crowd mixes with the locals at the bar while customers enjoy the year-round, heated outdoor patio near the bocce court.

A "cozy yet bright" modern vibe punctuates the somewhat hipster feel of the place, according to one Yelp user, who "can't wait to become a regular." Another described the restaurant as "really cool and cozy" and welcoming.

The Food News: The roast chicken is a huge success across the board. "Green Circle Rotisserie Chicken occupies prime menu space, encircled like the credits for an old-time movie," Baskin says, and it comes in half- or full-size ($17 or $32). It is smoky, herbed, and "one of the best I have ever had," according to a Yelp user.

The branzino fish is served whole and has a "wonderful wood-grilled flavor," rounding out the menu, along with "a tower of rotisserie cauliflower tangled with charred chard," according to Baskin. Some found the sides — like roasted carrots and rotisserie potatoes — smaller than average, but still tasty.

The Staffing News: The bar staff is "kind, engaging and helpful," and guests said they appreciated the attentiveness of the owner and manager.

The Beverage News: Branch Line serves wine and beer only, so cocktail drinkers may find the menu lacking, but "there's a thoughtful roster of Mediterranean wines and rare beers," Baskin says, with 20 drafts on tap that are available in half-pours. Some found beverage availability scarce as the restaurant ran out of choices. One diner found that those who are "serious about beer" will probably be pleased — "not a Budweiser in sight, but plenty of funky, sour, or just darn tasty beers to choose from."