Oleana, Best Restaurant in Boston, Not quite mid-level, but worth it!
Posted on Mon, Apr 06, 2009 @ 08:56 PM
Just finished a wonderful dinner of baked cod encrusted with panko bread crumbs served over some greens and topped with a mixture of roasted red peppers, eggplant, onions, etc.
Did you just at dine at Oleana, you might ask? Nope, but I did just dine at the super economical, Kat's Kitchen. Now sipping on one of my favorite varietals(Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region of New Zealand) and listening to Ellis Paul's newest album, Live at Eddie's Attic. Get it now as it is a limited edition. Did I mention I love music? Ok, Sorry. Story for another day, another blog, another website......
OLEANA. Another Kendall Sq. restaurant and winner of the James Beard Award in 2005. Arabic influenced foods of the Mediterranean. It is only my favorite restaurant in the Boston area.
I have eaten here about 3 times and each time, I have been "wowed". Every bite, Every sip of wine paired perfectly with the help of their super educated waitstaff.
The atmosphere can be very different depending on where you get sat and what time of year it is. Although I prefer sitting outside in the spring or summer on their newly designed patio, the inside in the winter can also be quite comforting especially if you get sat by the wood stove.
The menu also varies quite a bit depending on the season as they tend to use the freshest seasonal ingredients from their own local farm.
Ok, so I am sure you are wondering, what do I order?
For starters, you have to try the Fried Mussels, Hot Peppers & Turkish Tarator Sauce!
Dinner entrees tend to vary depending on season, but the specials always seem to be the way to go. I once had the most amazing mix of grilled pork, goat cheese, greens, etc.
Some staples that tend to stay on the menu include: Lamb Steak with Turkish Spices & Fava Bean Moussaka or Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake.
Oleana: www.oleanarestaurant.com
Although this place probably won't fit into the definition of a mid-level or moderately priced restaurant, you still have to EAT here!!
Enjoy!
-Brian aka The Boston Food Critic