Edgar's Review

Leslie's Retreat ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 03:00:00 PST

We entered Leslie's Retreat on a work night looking to avoid having to cook a meal! Once we found the sign that lead us to the parking area in back, we noticed the quaint patio area on our way in. Inside, we found it a little outdated, with dark wood used throughout.

We were surprised to find so many Italian dishes in, what appears to be, a "Yankee" styled restaurant themed after colonial Salem. Still, it didn't matter with the well proportioned meals they serve.

We had expected the prices to be slightly lower, but when we saw the size of the meals, we understood and had no problem. We got the baked haddock ($10.99) and the veal parmigiana on spaghetti ($9.29) and a soda ($2.29). With heaping amounts of meat sauce and tasty haddock, we were more than satisfied and left with full bellies.

The service was an older lady with plenty of stories to tell and knowledge of local lore. She explained that Leslie's Retreat was based on a poem about an incident before the famous ride of Paul Revere; the revolution began with Leslie's Retreat.

Cuisine: American, Italian

Ambience: Casual, Intimate

The Good:

Service: Excellent
Cleanliness: Spotless
People: Quiet, a bit of everything
Parking: lot (in rear)

The Bad:

Portions: Large
Location: Although on a main street, it's a little confusing to figure out that they have a lot and then how to get to it (the entry is between a couple of house down the street).
Price: Average

Date Rate: Cozy and casual!

Overall Value: 4

Leslie's Retreat
96 North St
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 744-9495

Cilantro ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 12 May 2012 03:00:00 PDT

For Mother's Day, I brought my mom to Cilantro (on Derby St. in Salem). Cilantro was dimly lit, with art on the walls and Aztec looking figurines scattered about. It took about 10 minutes after being seated to get our menus. Sadly, the cheapest entree was $18! I ordered the Puntas de Filete ($21), marinated beef tenderloin tips cooked in either a tomatillo pepper sauce, homemade salsa, or a fresh chipotle pepper sauce, and served with rice and beans.

I had to choose the chipotle sauce because I love the flavor of chipotle peppers. My mom ordered the Ensalada "Arriera" with Shrimp which was fresh mixed greens, mixed vegetables topped with pico de gallo, guacamole, tomatoes, sour cream, and chihuahua cheese (Not the dog! $17), which apparently was awesome. The food got to us with a reasonable 15 minutes after ordering.

The Puntas de Filete were JUST ok. The sauce was awesome, but didn't feel like the portions were big enough - especially for $21. The beans served with it were just re-fried black beans, but don't get me wrong because I love re-fried beans. But for the price I paid, I expected a different side dish. The rice served with my meal tasted like minute rice.

But hold on, not all was lost. We decided to order dessert, we chose the flan ($3.50). Let me tell you, this was the BEST flan I had ever had in my life and I have had a lot of flan! It wasn't like most flans that I've had which were too watery and fell apart really easy. It had a little drizzle of chocolate sauce on it and was lightly peppered with almond pieces - it was so good! The bill came out to $44.09 before tip. Price of entrees were $16-25.

-Contributed by: Peter Vourloumis

Cuisine: Mexican Mediterranean Fusion

Ambience: Romantic, Upscale, Casual Dress

The Good:

Handicap Accessible
Good service
Cleanliness was impeccable
Good for people watching
Clientele - Couples, Professionals

The Bad:

Portions were small
Expensive
Metered street parking

Date Rate: Let's get googly-eyed

Overall Value: 3

Cilantro
282 Derby St
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 745-9436

Casa de Lucca ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 05 May 2012 03:00:00 PDT

Unseeming and quaint, you feel like you've been transported to someone's house for an Italian dinner with all 52 cousin Vinny's and countless friends! With heaping portions, Casa de Lucca doesn't fail to deliver a full belly and a couple of buttons undone!

The service was decent, once we got past the waitress's tongue-and-cheek ways. We had the Pollo a la Parmigiana and the Tour of Italy sampler dish that comes with ravioli, linguine in Alfredo sauce, and chicken Parmigiana all for $14.95 for each entree. We finished off with a Tiramisu and took some home in a doggy bag. Had the food had a little more flavor or seasoning, it would've been perfect.
.

Cuisine: Italian

Ambience: Romantic, Casual

The Good:

Portions: Heaping
Cleanliness: Average
People: A bit of everything!
Parking: Street, nearby parking area

The Bad:

Service: Unorthodox, take or leave it approach
Price: More than expected, but so weren't the portions

Date Rate: Casual

Overall Value: 3

Casa de Lucca
146 Rantoul St # 148
Beverly, MA 01915
P: (978) 922-7660

Dockside at Malden ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 03:00:00 PDT

We went just looking for dinner, and I had remembered eating at there years ago. The place was packed and various games were on the countless televisions over the bar and on smaller televisions at some of the booths. This very small and local chain fit the bill.

As people were cheering on their favorite teams in the background, we ordered the Citrus Chicken with Roasted Vegetables ($13.99) and the New England Haddock ($8.99 half order). I also got a cup of clam chowder ($3.59).

The chicken came with two large pieces of grilled white chicken meat with vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, broccoli, onions, and peppers. It was delicious, with the chicken juicy and filling and lightly peppered vegetables.

The breaded haddock was average, with a slight buttery taste that I liked, but nothing spectacular. It came with mash potatoes and gravy, but nothing special there. And, the clam chowder, I liked it, but nothing spectacular.

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Ambience: Casual, Sports Bar

The Good:

Service: Good
Cleanliness: Average
People: A bit of everything
Parking: Adjacent lot

The Bad:

Portions: Average, but one would expect a bit more for the cost
Price: Affordable

Date Rate: Good for a casual 3rd or 4th date, or someone you're not trying to impress

Overall Value: 3

Dockside at Malden
229 Centre Street
Malden, MA 02148
(781) 321-3000

docksiderestaurants.com

Hayward's Restaurant ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 03:00:00 PDT

The other night we were in the mood for some local grub and Hayward's fit the bill. With the diner feel, you expect and get good old family cooking! My girlfriend ordered and loved her baked haddock dinner ($12.95) with a side of vegetables and tomato soup which was the soup of the day. It was hot and juicy enough to make your mouth water.

On the other hand, I had the steak cheese wrap ($5.95) with a side baked potato, which I found a bit blah although unusual since I've always liked the food the previous times I've eaten at Hayward's. I also didn't find her food as irresitable as she did, but did admit that it wasn't bad. Their breakfast menu isn't bad either!

Cuisine: Breakfast, Seafood

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Service: Prompt
People: Locals
Parking: Free street parking
View: Pondside
Handicap Accessible: Yes

The Bad:

Parking: All parking is on a busy street, but at least it's free.
Serving size: Average to just under versus cost

Date Rate: Nah!

Overall Value: 3

Hayward's Restaurant
125 Lynnfield St.
Lynn, MA 01904
(781) 595-9563

Chow Thai Cafe *****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 03:00:00 PDT

We decided to go into Boston for a bite, but went through Charlestown instead. After driving by my old office, I remembered a Thai restaurant I used to frequent, Thai Chow Cafe. It was night and found parking - which sometimes is not easy to find. The Cafe has a small and comfortable atmosphere such as you'd find at a Starbucks, or better yet, your living room.

Of course, we managed to be the last people to order before the kitchen closed up! Having got the crab rangoon $6.25, the shrimp mango chicken $12.95, and the panang $14.95, two sides of rice for $2.50 each) and Thai custard $3.95. $45.31 with tip. I can say, my girlfriend and I both thought it's the best Thai food we've ever had!! They'll even help de-spice food for those that don't like hot stuff! Check out their menu.

Cuisine: Thai, Sushi, Coffee

Ambience: Casual, Romantic

The Good:
Service: Prompt & courteous, the owner happen to be there and asked if there's anything we needed!
Cleanliness: Clean as a whistle
People: A bit of everything
Parking: Street
Portions: Average

The Bad:
Price: Good for dining just outside Boston, a little steep for the suburbians. Definitely going back more often.

Date Rate: Let's get googly-eyed

Overall Value: 5

Chow Thai Cafe
187 Main St
Charlestown, MA 02129
(617) 242-5232
chowthaicafe.wordpress.com

The Willowtree Restaurant *

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 03:00:00 PDT

Ironically, I wrote this review before they began their renovation. I hope it's to improve the decor and possibly a better chef...

Although I'm frequently in Peabody, had grown up there, and despite driving by The Willowtree all the time, I never went in. Well, that's now changed! The decor was something out of 70's magazine dealing with woodworking.

I found the decor very outdated, but where's there's good food you can overlook anything. Sadly, in this case, I was a little disappointed. We ate the seafood stew ($17.95) and chicken scampi ($13.95), both a bit bland and sorely disappointing.

Cuisine: Italian, American

Ambience: Romantic? I would not take anyone here on a first date.

The Good:

Cleanliness: Average
People: A bit of everything
Parking: Street, Free
Price: Average for seafood

The Bad:

Food: Blander eating paper with water
Decor: Awful, just awful - need I say more?
Service: Average, barely

Date Rate: We can do much - much - better!

Overall Value: 1

Willowtree Restaurant
135 Washington Street
Peabody, MA 01960
(978) 531-5799

Wellington's Pub ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 03:00:00 PDT

And so it goes, my company decided to send me to the Verizon Enhanced Communities Executive Summit in Chantilly, VA. Of course, that means that I have to try the hotel's restaurant: Wellington's Pub! It's American, but in British styled decor. I arrived the night of March 25th and managed to get myself some delicious chicken rigatoni ($16) and a cup of crab chowder ($6) and a large ginger ale ($3).

The next day, I ate the grilled chicken ($18) that comes with romaine wedges, grilled asparagus, fingerling potatoes, and ranch dressing - all very tasty.

Cuisine: American

Ambience: Casual, Business casual

The Good:

Service: Excellent
Cleanliness: Impeccable
Portions: Large
People: Mostly professionals, but everyone is welcomed!
Parking: Private lot

The Bad:

Price: Expensive, entrees range $15-$25

Date Rate: Romantic

Overall Value: 4

Wellington's Pub at Westfield's Conference Center
Westfield Marriott
14750 Conference Center Dr
Chantilly, VA 20151
P: (703) 818-3500

Out of Asia ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 03:00:00 PDT

Last Friday my girlfriend and I were dying for Chinese food and decided to try Out of Asia. When we got there, there weren't a lot of people there at the time. Out of Asia has a bar and numerous TVs which could be good when there's a game on. The table next to ours had two pieces of cardboard under two of the legs to prop it up and they kept duck sauces and wasabi on top of the table.

But I digress, we decided to split orders of Pineapple Coconut Fried Rice with Chicken ($7.95), Sauteed Garlic Noodles ($6.50), and Honey Glazed Chicken with Sesame ($11.75). We also ordered a shirley temple which was really packed with Grenadine - it was too sweet to really enjoy!

It took us about 10-15 minutes to receive our food which was good because we were really hungry, which made me wonder how fresh the food was. The food was decent, starting with the noodles that were covered in a really buttery garlic sauce. The chicken was pretty good as well, but it was just too sweet for me.

To be honest I think the food was a small step above the Chinese food you would get in a mall food court. At one point during my meal, I needed a refill for my drink and couldn't manage to flag down the waiter. Around 20 minutes later he came by and I asked for a refill, but I often noticed some of the employees hanging out just watching TV in the dining room. Our bill came out to around $35 after tip.

-Contributed by: Peter Vourloumis

Cuisine: Chinese

Ambience: Casual, Intimate

The Good:

Portions: Average
Service: Not bad
Cleanliness: Spotless
Price: Entree $10-$15, affordable
People: Quiet. Older, couples
Parking: Free lot

The Bad:

Handicap accessible: No
Food: Quality could be improved upon

Date Rate: I'm impressed

Overall Value: 3

Out of Asia
1268 Broadway
Saugus, MA 01906
(781) 231-3883
www.outofasia-ma.com

Century House Restaurant ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 03:00:00 PST

This old staple in Peabody's is known for great food! Interestingly, a couple years back I helped a friend and his company do the cleaning at 5 AM! I remember getting up at 4 AM and getting myself there to vacuum the entire place. Who said I'm not a hard worker? Anyhow, we decided to get there with a restaurant.com coupon (of course) and order some of there grub.

We got the 1/2 roasted stuffed chicken ($12.95) the catch of the day: char broiled catfish in herb butter ($11.95) and one soda ($2.49). They also served us sweet pecan roll with honey butter - awesome!

Cuisine: American, Traditional

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Parking: Free lot - plenty of space
Service: Excellent and attentive
Portions: Somewhat large
Handicap accessible: Yes
People: Mostly older
Price: Get the special before 5 PM, otherwise an entree is $10-$15

The Bad:

Tables: bit close to each other
Volume: Noise level was quite high

Date Rate: I'm impressed!

Overall Value: 4

Century House Restaurant
253 Andover Street
Peabody, MA 01960
(978) 531-1410
www.centuryhousepeabody.com

Scratch Kitchen ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 03:00:00 PST

I was planning on going to Scratch Kitchen for a week wondered that whole time why the name was Scratch Kitchen? Everything there was made from scratch. As soon as I walked through the door I noticed a lot of people and that was a good sign for me. There was an older fellow playing guitar in the back of the restaurant and they featured art from local artists. I found a wide arrangement of different beers, wines, and even sodas. They didn't only carry the Coke/Pepsi products which was nice.

I ordered the Happy Braised Beer Belly Sandwich ($10) which was pork belly braised in Naragansett beer, served with cabbage slaw, and garlic mayo. My girlfriend grabbed the Smokey Salmon Wrap ($9.50) which was hot smoked and chilled Salmon in a flour wrap with, mixed greens, pickled red onion, oven cured tomatoes, mixed nuts and a creamy Herb Ranch dressing.

Most of Scratch Kitchen's menu items are sandwiches but don't let anyone dissuade you because they ARE so delicious and filling. I couldn't even finish my sandwich and I'm a big guy. I also grabbed an order of onion rings, the portion was huge and the scratch-made ketchup was awesome! It was amazing to say the least. We finished off our meal with the Scratch Made Pudding, the bread pudding with whipped cream and caramel on top. The food was amazing, the staff was great, and the atmosphere was very nice. You can bet I'll be back there soon! Check out their menu!

-Contributed by: Peter Vourloumis

Cuisine: American

Ambience: very casual

The Good:

Parking: Accessibility Street, Garage/Metered, Public transportation
Price of Entree $10-$15 Affordable
Portions: Large
Service: They went out of their way!
Cleanliness: Average
People: A bit of everything and kid friendly too!
Handicap Accessible: Yes

The Bad:

Not very romantic

Date Rate: We can do better

Overall Value: 4

Scratch Kitchen
245 Derby St
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 741-2442
www.scratchkitchensalem.com

Casa Antigua ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PST

It was a slow night when we entered the Casa Antigua. I tried the Plato a la Antigua ($10) along with the complimentary nachos for an appetizer. I liked the grilled chicken along side the beans and avocado slices in typical Mexican fashion, with fried shrimp sprinkled about; and a side salad. The menu offers a host of dishes from various Latin American countries. Here's a link to their menu (PDF).

Although the service was a little slow, the waitress was more than accommodating. The dining room was dim, clean, and somewhat romantic. I would only argue that the jukebox allows anyone to play music that can most definitely ruin the meal; the least management could do is lower the excess volume. Overall I had a pleasant time and would go back soon.

Cuisine: Latin American

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Portions: Large
Cleanliness: Impeccable
People: A bit of everything, but a bit empty the night I went
Price: With exception to sea food dishes, most items are under $15 for good portions!

The Bad:

Service: A tad slow, but accommodating
Noise level: The jukebox is simply too loud
Parking: Street, metered

Date Rate: I'm impressed!

Overall Value: 4

Casa Antigua
129 Oxford Street
Lynn, MA 01901
(781) 584-8240
www.casaantigualynn.com

Longhorn Steakhouse ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PST

I went to the Longhorn and have to say that they serve some of the best food I have ever tasted. The Porterhouse steak was to die for - so tasty and cooked perfectly for me. This meal was ($25.49) and worth every penny.

The staff had a smile on their faces and I was treated with great hospitality. The manager even walked up and asked me how my meal was and if I had any suggestions. I told him not to change a thing.

I will definitely be back for a visit. This place also has a very nice atmosphere which makes it pleasant for a date night with your significant other. My date had the Longhorn Salmon ($18) which I had to try. It too was delicious! Now I know what to order on my next visit...so good. Also a great place to take the family for a good night out.

-Contributed by: Boris Peguero

Cuisine: American, Traditional

Ambience: Upscale, but very relaxed

Parking: Free and adjacent parking area

The Good:

Portions: Large
Service: Great!
Cleanliness: Impeccable!
People: A bit of everything!
Handicap Accessible

The Bad:

Price of Entree $20-$30 - expensive! The chicken dishes are affordable ($14-15) and the steakhouse sandwiches too.

Date Rate: I'm impressed!

Overall Value: 4

Longhorn Steakhouse
39 Walker's Brook Drive
Reading, MA 01867
(781) 942-4801
www.longhornsteakhouse.com

Aikia Steakhouse ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PST

I shared a Chicken and Shrimp combination plate with my girlfriend. The food was pretty good, it cost around $22 for both of us. The combination plate comes with fried rice and a salad and soup on the side.

-Contributed by: Peter Vourloumis

Cuisine: Japanese

Ambience: Casual, Upscale

Parking: Accessibility Street, Public transportation, Adjacent lot

The Good:

Service: They went out of their way!
Cleanliness Impeccable
People: A bit of everything!
Handicap Accessible: Yes
Portions: Average

The Bad:

Price of Entree: $16-$25 Expensive! Stick to the more affordable lunch menu.

Date Rate: Not on a first date, but maybe a second or third.

Overall Value: 4

Aikia Steakhouse
447 Paradise Road
Swampscott, MA 01907
www.aikiasteakhouse.com

Arties Place ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 03:00:00 PST

I've frequented this establishment many times over the years, enjoying their unique hash browns home fries prepared with garlic, spices and potatos with skinny along with massive omelettes. Although I'm not a fan of their pizza, they also serve ice-cream, if memory serves - from Richardson's!

We had the Spanish omelette with cheddar cheese, no feta cheese, and salsa on the side ($6.95), a side of chocolate chip pancakes, eggs over hard with sausage links and bacon ($6.95) and two large orange juices ($1.95 each). I can't speak enough about the hash browns!!

Cuisine: American

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Parking: Accessibility Adjacent lot
Price of Entree: $10 Cheap
Portions: Large
Service: They went out of their way!
People: Family, Kid Friendly
Handicap Accessible: Yes

The Bad:

Aesthetics: needs updating - feels like the 1970s...and get new menus!

Date Rate: Nah!

Overall Value: I'll be back!

Artie's Place
117 Lynnfield Street
Peabody, MA 01960
www.artiesdiner.com

Over Easy Restaurant ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 03:00:00 PST

I figured I'd try another breakfast place; some place closer to home. Awkwardly located on Boston Street at a somewhat busy intersection, once there, all is fine. Having gone there a couple times now, I can say I've had over all positive experiences in this former bar.

We had the Greek omelette ($6.59) and the Over easy special ($8), both good portions. The special has two sausage links, two eggs, two bacon and side of French toast. All great, but the French toast were nothing special and bit dry.

It's definitely worth a try! Check out their menu.

Cuisine: Breakfast, Brunch

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Portions: Average
Cleanliness: Very tidy.
People: A bit of everything
Parking: Adjacent lot, (the entrance is in the rear)
Price: Cheap! The club sandwiches are (grilled chicken club is $9 - so $10 covers it!

The Bad:

Service: Below average, slow - it was not a full house when I went, but still had to flag down the waitress. Also, no one tells you you have to pay at the register like at IHOP.
Hours: Limited hours - always a bad thing!

Overall Value: 3

Over Easy Restaurant
55 Boston Street
Lynn, MA 01904
www.overeasyrestaurant.com

Radici Ristaurante ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 03:00:00 PST

Located in the Courtyard Marriot in Danvers, we entered to almost empty dining area and a few hotel guests chatting by the fireplace. It was obviously a slow night, but once the waiter appeared, things ran smoothly. We sat down at a table for two and were presented the three-page menu consisting of some delicious sounding entrees - to my pleasant surprise.

We ordered the pan-seared Atlantic salmon ($17) and the grilled black Angus tenderloin with red wine demi-glazed onions, roasted-garlic mashed potato and grilled asparagus ($24). The salmon came with cider reduction, polenta cake, and vegetables.

For a hotel restaurant, the food was excellent! Some other dishes were the Orrechiette pasta ($16) and grilled honey-brined pork chop ($17). I did feel the restaurant looked generic and had no personality, but you can't expect much from a hotel restaurant.

Cuisine: American, Italian, International

Ambience: Casual, Intimate

The Good:

Service: Excellent
Cleanliness: Spotless
People: Quiet, only a few other adults dining.
Parking: lot

The Bad:

Portions: Average
Location: inside the Marriot with no signs outside letting you know it exists
Price: Expensive (thank goodness for my restaurant.com gift certificate) - really affected my rating

Date Rate: I'm impressed!

Overall Value: 3

Radici Ristorante
275 Independence Way
Danvers, MA 01923
(978) 777-8630
www.marriott.com

Omelette Headquarters ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 03:00:00 PST

We entered and were instructed to sit down anywhere in this casual, but quaint establishment. The portions were so big, I practically couldn't finish the dish! The Mediterranean is full of sausage, tomato, onions, oregano, feta cheese, and mozzarella! The vegetable supreme was full of mushrooms, spinach, tomato, broccoli, and more!

We sat down and ordered almost right away. We got the vegetable supreme ($6.75) and a Mediterranean ($8.50). Both were made with 3-6 eggs and were over-sized! They came with the sides we ordered: a wheat English muffin and hash browns too. A definite great eat! Try them out next time you're in Beverly! Next time: the meat lovers!!

Cuisine: Breakfast, Lunch

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Service: Great
Portions: Large!
Price: Nothing over $9.50
Cleanliness: Can eat off the floor!
People: A bit of everything

The Bad:

Parking: Street (metered)
Hours: They close at 2 PM - need I say more?

Overall Value: 4

Omelette Headquarters
342 Rantoul Street
Beverly, MA 01915
(978) 922-0494
www.omeletteheadquarters.com

Olympic Gardens ***

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 03:00:00 PST

I was invited to eat at Olympic Gardens one day for lunch and have been back twice since. A very new, and clean, pub and grill has appetizers from $2.95 - $7.95, sandwiches range from $5.95 - $6.95 (club sandwiches being about another dollar). What I liked is that they do have a kid's menu. Also, their chicken and pasta dishes don't exceed $13.

I tried the free buffet at their grand opening and had their chicken, broccoli, and ziti Alfredo along with pork sausage and green bell peppers - I quite enjoyed it. On another occasion I had ziti with stuffed peppers and sampled the chicken cacciatore ($10.95).

Stuffed Peppers

Overall, I have enjoyed all I've tasted although they have yet to develop signature dishes. They've only recently opened, but a slightly lower price point lunch menu is missing to help bring in the local business crowd more frequently. Their portions versus cost is fine for the weekend warrior or weekly crow and The staff is very friendly and accommodating. I see a lot of potential for the new and fine establishment.

Cuisine: Greek, Italian, American

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Parking: Street, Adjacent lot
Price of Entree: $10-$15 Affordable
Service: Good
Cleanliness: Impeccable
People: Family and Kid Friendly
Handicap Accessible: Yes

The Bad:

Price of Entree: $10-$15 Affordable, but limits those would be daily patrons
Portions: Average

Date Rate: We can do better!

Overall Value: 3

Olympic Gardens Pub and Grill
41 Buffum Street
Lynn, MA 01902
(781) 595-0016

Antique Table ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 20:09:00 PST

I noticed Antique Table a couple years ago, driving by it often on my way to Swampscott. The exterior has a strong Mediterrenean look and the inside, well, a bit smaller than anticipated. The entire restaurant probably sits no more30 people. We sat down and asked for a suggestion from the waitress. She suggested an Antique pizza ($8.95).

Full of peppers - both green and red - mushrooms, onions, and chicken breast - it was delicious. The pizza itself was a bit small, but was tasty. Appetizers range $7.50-11.95 with entrees ranging $13.95-$19.95 (most about $15). Sides are all under $5.

Cuisine: Italian

Ambience: Casual, Intimate

The Good:

Price: Average
Portions: Average
Service: Excellent
Cleanliness: Spotless
People: A bit of everything, but mostly thirty-somethings or older

The Bad:

Parking: Awkward parking in rear lot and if it's full, good luck on the street

Date Rate: I'm impressed, too bad it was too noisy

Overall Value: 4

Antique Table
2 Essex Street
Lynn, MA 01902
(781) 477-9778
www.antiquetableonline.com

Casa Molina ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:30:00 PST

I frequent Casa Molina whenever I want to satisfy my Mexican food graving I get often. It's also become a favorite lunch stop since I work a short drive from there. Authentic Mexican, this family-owned establishment has become quite popular in Lynn for it's well-sized burritos! As far as pricing, all items are under $10.

In fact, the most expensive thing on the menu is the chicken wings and grilled chicken plates for $9.50. The burritos range from $5.50-$7.50 and the average entree is $8.50. Although there are a few tables, it is a definite casual atmosphere and not a place for a serious date. I would stop by for a quick bite or casual and informal good experience or use them for a catered event.

Cuisine: Mexican

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Price: Cheap
Portions: Large
Service: Excellent
Cleanliness: Spotless
People: A bit of everything!

The Bad:

Parking: Street, hard to find a place to park

Date Rate: We can do better!

Overall Value: 4

Casa Molina
183 Lewis Street
Lynn, MA 01902
781-581-0100
www.casamolinalynn.com

The Tiger's Den ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 07:00:00 PST

I've often frequented this hidden gem for lunch. After discovering the cheap prices versus the good food, it's a definite thumbs up! This student run restaurant, located at Lynn Vocational, is run well by the high schooler's.

Located in the school, you have to ring the bell at the front of the building so they buzz you in. Once inside, you'll find The Tiger's Den to your right.

With selections such as prime rib, stuffed peppers, fettuccine Alfredo and deserts like chocolate pudding with whip cream, strawberry turnover and more - and nothing is over $7!! The hours are limited from 11-1 everyday, closed Monday's. Friday is fish day! I had the haddock!

Cuisine(s): American, Italian

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Price: Cheap
People: A bit of everything
Accessibility: Handicap
Parking: Street Parking, Free Parking
Cleanliness: Good
Service: Average
Portions: Average

The Bad:

Cash only
Limited hours (open 11-1, T-F)

Date Rate: We can do better

Overall Value: 4

The Tiger's Den
Lynn Voc Tech Instit Annex
90 Commercial Street
Lynn, MA 01905
(781) 268-0519

Sapporo Ramen *****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 07:00:00 PST

Very small place, around 8 tables to sit at in the whole place. The whole restaurant is about the same size as my kitchen (you know, Edgar). I wouldn't go here on a romantic date, I'd prefer to go here for lunch. The food is amazing in my opinion.

I haven't been to another Japanese restaurant almost entirely dedicated to ramen, so I can't really compare. Located AT Lesley college, there is a parking lot in the back that is monitored. If you ever find yourself in the area you should definitely try it.

-Contributed by: Peter Vourloumis

Cuisine: Japanese, Korean

Ambience: Casual

The Good:

Parking: Garage, metered, and public transportation nearby
Price: Cheap
Portions: Large
Service: Very good
Cleanliness: Eat off the floor

The Bad:

Not much to say here!

Date Rate: We can do better!

Overall Value: 5

Sapporo Ramen
1815 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02140

Howling Wolf Taqueria **

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 03:00:00 PST

When I saw this new Salem restaurant, I was immediately interested - especially with the Mexican theme! I was hopeful to find a new place I could regularly go to. The theme, colors, and décor is definitely fresh and unique. "Wolf" also has a well-done (no pun intended) website.

The place was packed, so the wait was anticipated. What I was not, was what I call the "flow". There was no host to be found and the check-in was about 20 feet away from the entrance!
It took walking over to the rear of the dining room to find someone to tend to my party. After that, the wait was a reasonable 10-15 minutes. Once seated, we were able to order our dishes, and did; although they messed up our orders twice.

There also seemed to be a bit of confusion in how service was conducted. Perhaps the next several months will "oil" their machine. Either case, we ordered the fish taco's and quesedilla, without the rice. The order came back with rice and the other side items ordered never came. The fish tacos were over priced in my book too - despite being cheaply priced. I'm sure they'll improve with time, but I did not have a pleasant time. There is plenty for under $10, so price is not an issue.

Ambience: Casual

Cuisine(s): American, Mexican

The Good:

Accessibility: Handicap
Cleanliness: Good
Other: Free Wi-Fi, Delivery (Salem only), Live music
Price: Cheap
Parking: Free Parking, Metered Street Parking

The Bad:

Service: Unattentive, definitely not paying attention to what we asked for
People: College Crowd - Okay, if that's what you want
Portions: Slight too small even for the cheap price

Date Rate: Ew! - not romantic

Overall Value: 2

Howling Wolf Taqueria
76 Lafayette Street
Salem, MA 01970
(978) 744-9653
www.feedyourwolf.com

Yan's China Bistro ****

noreply@blogger.com (Edgar) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 03:00:00 PST

I frequent Yan's for lunch almost every Friday for the last year. I've also gone there a couple times for dinner and typically get a non-spicy General Gau on the lunch menu for $5.25 (I try to not pay much for lunch). The lunch menu gives you 17 different dishes for that low price everyday! They're always friendly and willing to make your experience a pleasant one!

Yan's entrees are under $15 with little exception (A Pu Pu Platter for two is $17.95), making this an affordable dinner destination. Located near Swampscott Beach across from Red Rock, the atmosphere is tranquil. Yan's also offers frequent coupons. For dinner, they will prepare dishes off-menu as well. I feel Yan's has a lot of potential to be more romantic, but it's still a pleasant experience. Their approach to food preparation is a healthy one with gluten free dishes and only vegetable oil when necessary. The vegetarian selection is ample as well, boasting of dishes such as tofu with broccoli & garlic sauce ($8.25).

Ambience: Casual

Cuisine(s): Chinese

The Good:

Parking: Free parking across the street
People: A bit of everything
Accessibility: Handicap
Cleanliness: Very Clean
Other: Delivery, Gluten free dishes
Service: Average

The Bad:

Parking: Metered parking out front

Date Rate: I'm impressed

Overall Value: 4

Yan's China Bistro
146 Humphrey Street
Swampscott, MA 01970
(781) 593-3308
www.yansbistro.com