Dolor Tristique
RESTAURANT REVIEWS
Where to eat: Nautilus
To say that I stalk both Nautilus restaurants is an understatement. I was first introduced to Nautilus on my favorite little island off the coast of Massachusetts (Nantucket). On island, they don't regularly take reservations in advance so it's a commitment to get in. But oh-so-worth-it. When I heard they were opening a Boston outpost, like a good stalker, I was there on opening night.
Where to eat: Mystique in Santorini, Greece
For the second half of my stay in Santorini, I moved to a hotel closer to Thera and Οία. Before I checked in at my next hotel, I made plans to have lunch at Mystique, The Luxury Collection's Οία property. Mystique is exactly what you think of when you imagine a Santorini hotel. The various pockets of Mystique's property are nestled among the cliffs of Οία's coast with views of the bluest ocean as far as the eye can see. I settled in at the pool restaurant to try their menu of fresh seafood, fruity cocktails, and decadent desserts.
Where to eat: Long Grain in Camden, Maine
After the 2-hour drive from Portland to Camden, Maine, I was ready for lunch. It was my first time in Camden, so, of course, I prepped as much as I could. Every article I read before my trip to Camden, and stay at Whitehall, said to eat at Long Grain. Long Grain is a localvore Asian restaurant. From Vietnamese to Thai and everything in between, Long Grain uses seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients for every dish on their menu.
Where to eat: B&G Oysters
B&G Oysters is hands-down my favorite patio in Boston. Located in the South End, B&G is cozy, vine-covered and not noisy. It's heaven. I also think it's one of the best raw bars in the city.
Where to eat: Island Creek Oyster Bar
Brunch at Island Creek Oyster Bar has everything - homemade breads and pastries, burgers, and lobster rolls. And coffee, and waffles, and fried oyster sliders. Located in Kenmore Square, and born from their Duxbury oyster farm, Island Creek Oyster bar is not only an iconic Boston brand, but also a seriously amazing place for brunch.
Where to eat: Bar Mezzana
Last weekend, a few pals and I planned an indulgent Sunday brunch at Bar Mezzana. When it came to ordering, we didn't hold back. From crudo to donuts to eggs, we tried everything. Each dish was prepared perfectly.
4 places to eat in Charleston, SC
For my second visit to Charleston, I knew I had to try all new restaurants. Life's too short to repeat meals. (Well, unless they are that good. Then, by all means, repeat away.) I'm also that person that's distracted by shiny new things so it's no surprise that I was excited to try some new spots.
Where to eat: Counter in Salem, MA
Counter, located in the lobby of The Hotel Salem, is the latest installation by Lark Hotel's Executive Chef, Justin Perdue. Like his other spot, Picnic Social in Stowe, VT, Justin's menu at Counter is approachable and surprising.
Where to eat: Belle Maison Paris
Whenever I hear that one of my foodie friends is heading to Paris, I immediately recommend making dinner reservations, especially on weekends. If you want to try a new or popular spot, it's the only way to go. Even if you scout out your reservation earlier that day, you'll be better off than not having one at all.
The Shop in Portland, Maine
The Shop is the latest venture by the guys behind Island Creek Oysters. Their first restaurant in Portland, Maine, The Shop is a classic oyster bar that serves only three things: oysters, canned fish, and caviar. It's seriously good. The minute I heard The Shop had opened, I couldn't believe it. Mostly because I had no clue Island Creek was making their way north.
