Tag: swordfish

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Swordfish with Summer Ratatouille at Deadhorse Hill

Swordfish with Summer Ratatouille at deadhorse hill on Main Street in Worcester, MA

Deadhorse hill is a small place on Main Street in Worcester with a sign so small you might miss it if you’re not looking for it. Once inside, the bare walls, exposed ceiling and center bar give the place more of a local hangout feel than a fine dining feel. The bartenders know their craft, the waitstaff is friendly and knowledgeable and the menu changes frequently, but make no mistake, this is fine dining indeed.

Southern Fried Chix Thighs from deadhorse hill on Main Street in Worcester, MA
Southern Fried Chix Thighs from deadhorse hill on Main Street in Worcester, MA

I started with an order of the Fried Chicken Thighs. This came as two large thighs, battered and fried, server over a honey and hot sauce mixture. The breading was light but very flavorful and the sweetness of the honey mixed with the heat of the hot sauce was fabulous. The thighs were meaty and cooked perfectly and the mix of flavors elevated the dish to something unique and wonderful. I’d honestly say some of the very best fried chicken I have ever had.

For dinner, I had the Swordfish with Summer Ratatouille—two small/medium sized swordfish steaks, seasoned and grilled, server of a ratatouille of summer vegetables. The seasoning on the fish was delicious and it was grilled to perfection, staying moist and flavorful. The vegetables retained enough texture, while still being cooked well, to play nicely against the tenderness of the fish creating a great mix of textures. The flavors paired wonderfully as well, creating an overall excellent dish. My only complaint is that with the menu changing frequently, this might not always be on the menu.

Starting with the friendly hostess, to the knowledgeable bar staff to our waiter Carlos the service was fantastic from start to finish. Everyone knew what they should know, was able to offer intelligent recommendations and handled the evening with class.

Deadhorse hill combines truly great food, an inviting eclectic location and excellent service to create an atmosphere that supports a lovely meal out. The ever changing menu means every trip will be a unique dining experience while the ever the same staff and locations keeps the experience grounded. Overall, an excellent meal and experience.

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Swordfish & Summer Ratatouille From deadhorse hill

Swordfish & Summer Ratatouille From deadhorse hill from deadhorsehill on Main Street in Worcester, MA

I am no stranger to deadhorse hill; it has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants in Worcester. I think we have been there almost ten times now. I immediately fell in love with the staff and service, however once I tired the food, I was even more impressed. If you had been to Ritual, you will see the space completely transformed, and it looks fantastic. I dig the look and feel of deadhorse hill, from their eclectic/vintage glasses, to the local art adorning the walls and of course the fun vibe.

I have been a little leery of the “changing menu” tailoring to the flavors and availability of the season; however, I have never been disappointed with any of menu selections at deadhorse hill. Typically, I gravitate towards any of their unique fish entrées, so I was excited to see two different offerings the night we were there. To start we ordered the Memphis Ribs, which, thankfully never seem to disappear from the menu; fork tender, spiced perfectly accompanied by a cabbage slaw and pickles, which, are almost the star of the plate. In addition, we shared the local greens, dressed with a red wine gastrique, and delicious yogurt dressing on the side. It is not often that I eat bread, but it seems I always have a moment of weakness at deadhorse hill, their bread either is made onsite or from Crust Bake Shop located just down the street, and while the bread is fantastic, the real indulgence is the homemade butter, served on the side with sea salt and pepper. For my entrée, I deliberated between the red fish or swordfish. I ordered the Swordfish & Summer Ratatouille – cherry tomatoes, squash, eggplant. The swordfish was fantastic and the ratatouille simply delicious, my only critique, the dish was slightly over salted for my taste, but still excellent.

Typically, we sit at the bar, so I must give a shout out to the bar staff, they are top notch! One of the reasons I love deadhorse hill is due in part to the service, this is the first restaurant I have been to where the bartenders introduced themselves, remembered our names, and felt like friends by the time we left. In the dining room, we have always had a great experience as well. I really appreciate the attention to detail at your table, clearing your plates to reset the table is always a nice touch. I have also had the pleasure of meeting and talking with one of the owners, Sean, his passion and hard work are undeniable, you will see him working like crazy the entire time you are there, he also has a genuine concern about your experience and takes the time to make sure his guests are well taken care of.

Once again, deadhorse hill did not disappoint! I will be back (of course) and I still need to try their lunch menu, which I hear is fantastic. I highly recommend deadhorse hill, drinks, apps, or a unique “large plate” option. I hope you will enjoy as much as I have.