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Great eats in the heart of Bolton

Rainbow and Beet Radish Salad from The International in Bolton, MA

Rainbow and Beet Radish Salad from The International in Bolton, MA

While driving down through the rural streets of Bolton, I could have sworn my GPS was taking me to The Last House of the Left. But when I arrived at The International, I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the white sparkling lights and tall pine trees. It was nice to get out of the city and explore another town.

When I walked in, I instantly felt comfortable. It was a cold night, but inside was warm and cozy. It was everything a country club should be. The big fireplace and dim lighting added to the vibe. It’s the perfect place cuddle up with a book and bowl of soup by the fire, to bring a date or grab some apps with friends.

As I mentioned, I am, and always will be, that girl who orders sushi if it’s on the menu. My eyes were directed straight to the Spicy Crab Maki Roll, which had cream cheese (my favorite). And, it was deep fried (also my favorite). I knew it had to be mine. Then I ordered a salad because the sushi was listed as an appetizer. I was sold on the Rainbow and Beet Radish Salad as soon as I saw mention of a goat cheese wonton.

As I expected, the salad was enough for two. The goat cheese wonton was divine. I could have eaten two or three without regret.

When I saw the maki, I was love struck. In addition to a beautiful presentation, the maki was cold and crunchy on the outside and warm on the inside. It came with a side of seaweed salad as well. I forced down the entire roll, took half of the salad home for a little late night treat. Overall I had an excellent meal.

The restaurant had two separate tables. They set up a long table and a round table. I personally wish we could have all been at the same table since it was my first Worcester Foodie experience. I was at the round table where the service was excellent. Ice water was waiting for us, which was followed by some warm pita bread. Our meals and our dessert came out quickly.

A woman from the restaurant spoke with us after our meal. She told us about the restaurant, the golf course, the hotel and the events they host. She was welcoming and made me feel at home.

With so many restaurants in and around the city, I would have never thought to come to The Fireplace Room at The International. I hadn’t heard of it before this event. With an excellent menu, a dream-like atmosphere and welcoming staff, it is now a place I will be recommending to friends near and far.

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The Best Cast Iron Swordfish

The International has Best Cast Iron Swordfish

The International has Best Cast Iron Swordfish

I blindly signed up for this month’s Worcester Foodies event without looking up the restaurant until the day of. Even then, I did not look at where it was until I put it in my phone’s GPS. I headed out the door from Blackstone, Mass. with hesitation. Tuesdays are school nights, but boldly I went up 495 anyway.

The dark winding roads into the woods made me feel very adventurous. When I parked next to a Maserati, I gave myself a solid pep talk to be on my best behavior. To my surprise, The International was not stuffy at all. I may have even overdressed.

I ordered the Cast Iron Blackened Swordfish Steak with white cheddar polenta, roasted garlic spinach, San Marzano tomato and sun-dried corn. I had been deeply wounded by The Urban in the past so I thought the high prices and fancy-sounding dishes would mean tiny portions. I was completely wrong. I don’t know the exact weight of my swordfish, but it was definitely three ounces, the recommended protein quota for a serving.

Even thinking back to it now, I am amazed I ate the whole piece. Despite the size, the swordfish was cooked evenly. The fish just melted as my fork sliced through it. The texture was meaty, smooth, and moist. On its own, it was excellent. Along with white cheddar polenta, tomatoes, and roasted garlic spinach, it was the best dish I have ever eaten as a Worcester Foodie. The rich, creamy polenta, the tangy garlic spinach, and the slight sweetness from the tomato was perfection. I think if I were to order swordfish anywhere else I would be disappointed

The servers were quick and attentive. There were a lot of people helping with our group. The servers all seemed to rave about the food as well.

I honestly cannot recommend The International enough. I fully plan on returning with my husband sometime soon and would love to see it in daylight as the wall of windows looks out onto the grounds. I also had a delicious bite of the Lobster and Pumpkin Risotto (served in a pumpkin) so I am eager to try more items on the menu. If I lived closer I would head over for a casual weekday evening meal to enjoy the bar menu of burgers and pizzas.