Bars & Pubs, Restaurants, New American Restaurants, Traditional American Restaurants
Martinis, $$$, Brunch, Business Dining, Celeb Hangout, Date Spot, Dine At The Bar, Family-Friendly Dining, Fireplace, Local Favorite, Lunch Spot, Outdoor Dining, People Watching, Romantic Dining, View Dining
Since its opening in 1994, Stephanie's has been an institution in the heart of Boston's Back Bay. The upscale Newbury Street location offers shoppers, tourists, business travelers and locals a hearty meal in a cozy banquette or street-side with a perfect view for people-watching. Owner Stephanie Sokolove serves "sophisticated comfort food" in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The restaurant features a sidewalk cafe, club-like bar, cozy fireplace and sky-lit dining area. Over the years Stephanie's has received accolades in numerous publications, including USA Today and The New York Times.
On my recent trip to Boston, I was recommended to go to Stephanie's on Newbury. I was quickly disappointed. We were one of the first couples to walk in and was placed right next to the kitchen. Not near the front, nor on the second floor where empty tables abound. In addition, management was having a tiff with one of their employees about "respect" right in front of us as we're eating. They could have at least discussed their issue in a more private setting, but then again we were placed by the kitchen...Nothing special about the food, maybe because of what we ordered....the chinese chicken salad is much better at Nordstrom's cafe, their hamburger was ok. The only bright spot was our server, who was at least attentive and nice. Overall, over-rated.
Pros: nice area
Cons: crowded
Posted 07/20/03
The salads are not extraordinary -- I think we paid to much for what we were getting for. The Salmon and potato pancake dish was disappointing -- too little salmon and too much pancake. Creme brulee was decadent and to die for.
Cocktails are nice and bartending staff is friendly.
Pros: patio seating
Cons: price
Posted 07/10/03
