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British Beer Company Worcester

British Beer Company Worcester now open

When news broke earlier this year of Worcester’s “restaurant row” getting a chain restaurant, emotions were mixed. But, as of Monday, April 11th, the British have arrived and are aching to prove they want to be part of the city’s fabric. With its opening, Shrewsbury Street, in Worcester, welcomes British Beer Company to the space formerly occupied by The Urban Kitchen and Bar and Coral Seafood.

The space has been completely re-invented to create a comfortable environment for family-friendly dining, private functions (both large and small) and even casual bar dining (as apparent by the focal center bar that is designed with rich architectural details). The physical space is unrecognizable from previous tenants: the kitchen has been moved to the back of the building and windows that previously looked into it have been replaced with private cove, booth seating; the function room which resided on the second floor remains, but now overlooks the main bar area with a balcony that allows the entire restaurant to have an open feeling; the spot previously home to the Coral and Urban bar have been replaced with a smaller dining room which is removed enough from the bar to feel private.

The Sweet Thai Chili Salmon from British Beer Company Worcester
The Sweet Thai Chili Salmon from British Beer Company Worcester

The only part of this restaurant that one could argue makes it a “chain,” is that the menu is shared across its other BBC locations. This, however, does not mean that the freshness, creativity, and flavors are cookie-cutter, as apparent by the Sweet Thai Chili Salmon. Even the drink menu, which has several notable favorites (from both sides of the pond) even include hometown favorites, such as Wormtown beers.

While some may cry foul allowing a “chain” onto Shrewsbury Street, it’s important to remember that any tax paying entity should show signs of growth for the city and when there is so much attention to detail to every aspect of a restaurant, British Beer Company should be example of how a “big company” can compliment the diversity of food “in the neighborhood.”

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Fine Dining: Ceres Bistro

Ceres Bistro

Every city has its staple Italian restaurant, Middle Eastern, steakhouse, casual, family-style, and fine dining spot. In Worcester, it is fitting that the only four diamond hotel is also home to one of the most elegant dining experiences without the snobbery: Ceres Bistro.

Dessert at CeresLocated across the street from UMass University Campus, the Beechwood Hotel and Ceres Bistro restaurant have become known for their sophistication, gourmet menu, trendy atmosphere, and attention to detail. Starting in the lounge, the atmosphere rivals that of a trendy Manhattan bar with illuminated faux-marble counter-tops surrounded by an impressive selection of liquor, beer, and wine; a perfect spot to relax for a cocktail after work or informal business meeting over food from the bar menu. The most comforting fact is whether you are in a suit or tie, or jeans and polo, you will feel at home in the lounge.

The dining room includes both table and booth seating to accommodate parties large and small and features a magnificent stained glass ceiling dome that dates back to the late 1800’s and floor to ceiling glass walls that highlight beautifully manicured gardens. Nestled in the back is a wine dining room where you can eat in a more private setting surrounded by wines from around the world.

The outdoor dining area gives you a greater feeling of freedom all year—regardless the time of the day with outdoor heaters, convenient bar, and lawn seating—an oasis escape from the surrounding city.

Chef at the table in the main dining roomWhether enjoying dinner, a business lunch, or Sunday brunch, the kitchen staff—led by  awarding-winning chef, Bill Nemeroff—has created gourmet options with a contemporary twist to please your appetite and titillate your taste buds.

The private function rooms at Ceres Bistro provide the perfect venue for an intimate event or to entertain clients, family or friends.

A restaurant like this would demand the highest prices based on the quality of food, but Chef Nemeroff’s uncanny ability to create a sophisticated meal at an affordable price—especially the special bar menu—is one reason Ceres Bistro should be at the top of your list. When in Worcester, Ceres Bistro is the place to go when you are looking for a gourmet meal, sophisticated atmosphere, and pure professionalism from start to finish. Visit their location on Plantation Street in Worcester to understand why.

Ceres Bistro