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O’Connor’s Seafood Mac and Cheese

O'Connor's Seafood Mac and Cheese

O'Connor's Seafood Mac and Cheese

What’s the best thing to order at a pub with a mostly Irish feel to it? Why Mac and Cheese of course. At least if you are at O’Connor’s where you know the seafood is fresh and delicious. And then they create it with some of the most complimentary cheese’s seafood can find… then bake it in the oven till its brown on top and oeey gooey inside. That’s why I ordered the Seafood Mac and Cheese. It had large shrimp, delicate scallops, and yes even a bit of real crab. Rich and creamy. The cavatappi pasta was perfectly cooked- and I mean not over cooked and mushy, but the perfect el dante with just a hint of a bite to it. It was swimming in a garlic three cheese sauce that had a hint of spices. All this was topped with a crunchy, buttery panko crumb that tasted like parmesan cheese was added to create a wonderful top layer. But lets talk about the inside again. Some mac and cheese’s just don’t have enough sauce and the pasta drys out and gets hard and icky, that will never be the case with this one. The sauce was abundant and each bite had some if its thick cheese. That is why this was a very satisfying and yummy meal.

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Shepard’s Pie

Shepard's Pie from O'Connor's on West Boylston Street in Worcester, MA

Shepard's Pie from O'Connor's on West Boylston Street in Worcester, MA

O’Connor’s has been a Worcester staple for the last 25+ years! Despite the fact that it is almost outside the “Worcester proper” town line, this established eatery is known for their eclectic menu, beer selection, and old-fashioned service. You can imagine my surprise after sitting down with owner Brendan, that he views O’Connor’s main competition with mediocre chains such as Pub 99, Applebee’s, and TGIFridays! I couldn’t disagree more!

Having dined at O’Connor’s on numerous occasions, I was looking forward to this month’s Foodie event! Our hostess greeted us immediately upon arrival and brought us to our own private dining room! The room was set up to accommodate our large group with an extra wide long table that made it easy to socialize and of course exchange bites with my fellow Foodies!

I went for the shepoards pie because, well to be honest, my pregnancy appetite is as big, if not larger than my growing baby bump! The dish arrived and I dove right in! The top layer was a gorgeous mix of creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese! The inside was filled with fresh veggies, lean ground beef, and a rich brown gravy with a hint of ale! The gravy was by far the best part as it complimented the perfectly seasoned beef and vegetables! Needless to say, the two tablespoons I happened to leave in my bowl were quickly devoured by a fellow Foodie within seconds…the true sign of a great meal!

So O’Connor’s has done it again…another superb meal, excellent service, and some additional attention from Brendan. The proud owner took time out of his evening to share with us the story behind O’Connor’s, his journey from a student to an entrepreneur, and his time and expansion in Worcester! Thank you O’Connors and Brandon for your hospitality!!! Those chain restaurants have NOTHING on you!