Good Food In A Cozy Setting Makes For A Neighborhood Gem

Located along the cobblestone streets of Boston's South End neighborhood, Union Bar & Grille is the kind of neighborhood spot every city should have. It's casual enough that a lone diner could sidle up to the bar on a weeknight, and enjoy dinner while conversing with the bartender (and watching the game). Families can be found on any given night, looking for a delicious meal in a warm and friendly environment free of any pretentions. Even those picking a spot for a date will find that Union Bar & Grille offers fine dining, yet with a relaxed, comfortable feel. It's no wonder that the restaurant won Boston Magazine's Best New Restaurant award in 2004. It's a true gem.

Housed in a renovated, historic warehouse, Union Bar & Grille is a distinctive space that upholds a welcome balance of new and old, modern and rustic. Walking in the door, the attention to décor is immediately noticeable, from the warm feel of rough-hewn beams and rich leather banquettes, to the windows, which appear to be leaded glass at first, but are in fact a modern design that is meant to maximize light.

Just as the space is a harmonious combination of textures and colors, the menu is an innovative combination of locally sourced ingredients, and traditional methods executed with a contemporary, refined hand. Appetizers like a watermelon sorrel salad and a sweet corn chowder dazzle the palate, while for dinner, the salmon and burger are not to be missed.

Can't make it to Union for dinner? Stop by for brunch. They have a pretty amazing deal for $10 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sundays (and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays) — coffee cake, an entrée, and coffee or tea, plus your choice of juice. I know where I will be next time I'm in town.