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Recap Map: September 2018

Rice Violet on Main Street in Worcester, MA

Great Restaurants That You Haven’t Thought Of In Central Massachusetts: These establishments are approaching dining from angles that may feel unfamiliar in the local dining scene. Check out a few spots that feel exploratory even in our own hometown. Restaurants like Addie Lee’s, Bay State Shawarma, Fatimas, Meze, and Red Pepper are valuable contributors to Worcester’s beautiful and complex multicultural identity.

An Allergy Story – Navigating the Restaurant Scene with a Food Allergy: Contributor Dana Harrison speaks with simjang, Armsby Abbey, and Lock 50 about how seriously they approach food allergies in their kitchens.

You’re Invite to the George’s Coney Island Block Party: On September 30th, the George’s Coney Island team transported us back through 100 years of history with a block party in celebration of their centennial.

#SundayFunday – Traditional Thai At Rice Violet: Contributor Giselle Rivera-Flores shares that in Thailand, sharing a meal is the social occasion and at Rice Violet, the embodiment of shared dishes and good company make it a #SundayFunday destination.

Five Destinations Fit For A Knowledgeable Beer Pairing: I am always in search of knowledgeable hospitality teams to help me land on the perfect beer pairing. I found what I was looking for at Armsby Abbey, Kummerspeck, BirchTree Bread Company, The Civic Kitchen & Drink, and Rail Trail Flatbread Company.

Live From Redemption Rock Brewing Co. On Shrewsbury Street: I went live with CEO Dani Babineau who took us on a tour inside the future home of Redemption Rock Brewing, set to open by December of 2018 at 333 Shrewsbury Street.

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Quick Bites

“Spicy Habanera Breast Strips XXX” from Dianna's Neighborhood Bistro.

We’re giving finger foods, happy hour snacks, and hors d’oeuvres some serious thought! Worcester’s quick bites are easy to share and effortless to eat.

Light Bites
Typically, a trip to The Boynton demands a big burger or a BBQ chicken pizza, but you might be surprised to find that The Boynton is working some light bites into their repertoire. Take for instance, the Thai Peanut Lettuce Wraps with chicken, served in a sweet chili sauce. Pair with a Sip ‘O Sunshine if you really want to brighten your day.

Fiery Bites
If you’re looking for some heat on Worcester’s West Side, Dianna’s Neighborhood Bistro is your first stop for a fiery bite. The “Spicy Habanera Breast Strips XXX” aren’t just intriguing because they come with a free glass of milk; you can taste the time invested in Dianna’s take on boneless wings. The spice of the marinade builds slowly, amounting to a complex and welcome burn. Dianna’s is the perfect spot to rendezvous with old friends or family. Remember to BYOB. 

Vintage Grille's jalapeño aioli with a side of tater tots.
Vintage Grille’s jalapeño aioli with a side of tater tots.

Greasy Bites
Once in awhile we all get hit with tot fever, and there’s only one place to turn: Vintage Grille. If you came in search of artisanal truffle taters, this is not the restaurant for you. If, on the other hand, you are craving greasy grub and a genuine auto body ambience, welcome home. Let your hair down after a long week at Vintage Grille. Ask for a side of the sweet heat jalapeño aioli and an order of tater tots. 

Party Bites

If you are in the market for samosas at your next party, go no farther than Fatima’s on Gold Star Boulevard. Fatima’s legendary Kenyan cuisine is fast, affordable, and engineered to share with friends. Consider placing a large takeout order of samosas to spice up your next social gathering.
Worcester is the kind of place worth sticking around after a long day on the job. Grab a quick bite after work to whet your appetite and boost your social life.