Next up on the MassFoodies tour was deadhorse hill a new and interesting restaurant on Main Street in Worcester. Having been here once before I wasn’t sure what to expect the second time around but was looking forward to seeing what was on the menu. The atmosphere and decor at deadhorse is eclectic to say the least. High tin ceilings, exposed brick, modern art on the walls combined with mix and match vintage dishes and glasses create a casual but hipster and edgy feel. Perfect for the meal and dining experience that was about to take place….
Before we were seated, I ordered an ice cold Narragansett tall boy at the bar. To my surprise, the beer was served alongside a vintage Ronald McDonald glass. The juxtaposition of the beer served in a Ronald McDonald glass was discussed amongst our group, with the conclusion that while it was an odd pairing, it worked perfectly here at deadhorse hill. Hell, my friend was drinking out of a glass decorated with the Grimace character and other glasses behind the bar included Speedy Gonzales and Scooby Doo!
As an appetizer our table chose to share a plate of Duxbury Oysters. Served ice cold with a bit of sour cream, onion, and oyster cracker on top, they were fantastic. The sour cream, onion and cracker topping was an interesting combination with the fresh and salty oyster.
The menu at deadhorse is a combination of small plates for sharing, large plates designed as entrees and centerpiece meals, even larger and more expensive meals to be consumed by the table. I chose the Rigatoni from the small plate menu but believe me, it was plenty of food for one person! Perfectly cooked, al dente pasta surrounded a large scoop of ricotta cheese and sat atop charred sungold tomato marinara. The charred tomato was sweet and intense, complementing the rich, creamy ricotta cheese and the big, fat rigatoni pasta. This dish was very distinct and flavorful, something I certainly would enjoy again.
Our service team was outstanding and knowledgable, from the bar staff to the servers, everyone seemed in tune with the mission and philosophy of the restaurant.
At deadhorse the food, service and atmosphere all came together to deliver a friendly, delicious and outstanding dining experience. The menu changes regularly so there is plenty of reason to come back and I would highly recommend this restaurant be put on your “visit soon” list!