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Deadhorse Hill – Grilled Skirt Steak

Grilled Skirt Steak from deadhorse hill on Main Street in Worcester, MA

Deadhorse hill occupies the former space that Ritual had held prior to closing. The location had been redecorated with a new center bar that was fun and had a nice wood bar top and newly decorated walls that included murals. The staff were pleasant, professional and knowledgeable and most were wearing local themed Worcester shirts. After looking at the menu it was apparent that there was a strong theme of locally sources and seasonal dinner options.

After looking through the menu options for the night I opted for the Grilled Skirt Steak which was served with heirloom tomatoes and a spicy avocado vin. The plates presentation of the grilled skirt steak and heirloom tomato’s was perfect. The heirloom tomatoes were perfectly ripe and served with local herbs. Unfortunately, the skirt steak missed the mark in my opinion. Skirt steak is usually know for being flavorful and slightly chewy due to the cut. The steak that I received that night was fairly chewy, under cooked slightly and lacked some of the flavor I had hoped for, given the cut of meat and the avocado vin.

Throughout the night, I sampled other dishes and appetizers that all seemed to be of a much higher caliber than the main course I ordered. So I would likely attribute the issue just with this dish for the night.

Service was very good and the stall were all helpful and professional and willing to help. The vibe and atmosphere was fun and the attention the quality of food and beverage that deadhorse hill is creating is evident.

Deadhorse hill seems very committed to using high quality locally sourced food and beverage to create a high quality ever changing menu for dinner. The chef and staff seem committed to serving a quality product in the Worcester dining scene.

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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.