Union Bar & Grille

I'm a longtime resident of the South End and I have to admit that I didn't set foot into Union until just a few months ago. The food is simply amazing and the Tuna (my favorite dish) is to die for. The complimentary corn bread that is served in a hot iron skillet is also a real treat. Aside from the food, the decor is quite swanky and something that I believe that 30-something year old Sinatra would be quite comfortable in if time travel was possible. The service is also top notch. While I am not a wine expert, it seems that there is always an experienced sommelier available to make great recommendations. Definitely a South End favorite.

Pros: Food, service, and ambiance is all wonderful

Cons: Parking may be difficult for some

Posted 11/04/08

I remember when this place opened, I loved it. I hadn't been there in about a year, and when I returned I was disappointed to see that the menu is so similar to the past ones.
Enough with the 10K tuna, and fried calamari, and does the buyer know of any other sausage besides chorizo?
Desserts have gone down hill, and the over all atmosphere has become pretentious.
Woods was great with the old Metropolis and original Aquataine, he needs to do something on his own again.Less time with his publicist and more time cooking and creating with his staff.

Pros: Knowledgable and friendly staff

Cons: Stagnant menu

Posted 04/09/08

On a second visit to Boston, I dined at Union Bar & Grill with my husband. We both enjoyed the experience thoroughly. The atmosphere was very chic and both the food and the servers were well seasoned. We tried some of the local favs and particularly loved the sweet corn risotto, the 10k tuna and the lamb. Having relocated to a sleepy suburb in the southeast, we feel Union is just the type of eatery we sorely miss! I greatly appreciated the Union staff for taking such great care of us. We look forward to stopping by again on our next trip to Beantown!

Pros: Great atmosphere and food

Posted 03/24/08

Trying to be cool, but missing it by a bit. THe food's good but not memorable. WIne list is solid. Not a top 3 for NYC dining experience in the mid-sized format.

Pros: Nothing comes to mind

Cons: Nothing comes to mind.

Posted 12/10/07

I went to Washington Street to try to do some Christmas shopping and found the store were way too expensive. So I was happy to find this deal for brunch. Our waitress was very friendly, but sort of dissapeared after we got our meal. I think it was because they were closing at 3. So, maybe it's better to get there earlier. The prix fixe brunch was worth it though. My smoked salmon scrambled eggs stayed hot throughout the meal and the potatoes were great. I saw someone with the giant French toast and I will go back just to try that.

Pros: Prix fixe brunch

Cons: Somewhat slow service

Posted 11/18/07

A sure bet for brunch in the south end. They are consistent, they take reservations (and seat you at the time that you reserved for) and the food is quite good. The crab cakes are excellent as is the burger and fries and the eggs bennedict are also good. One missing piece that I cannot understand is that they serve homemade granola (which is good) but do not have any yogurt available to go with it. I have mentioned this to the staff, but it is still not available. The setting is nice and the staff are decent, but can be inconsistent, sometimes giving great service and at other times being quite slow and inattentive. Overall a good option for brunch.

I was there for dinner twice. The corn bread that they serve in a iron skillet is very, very good and a nice way to start the meal. I had a delicious, although rather pricey meal meal one night. Very delicious and high quality. I came back with friends in August for a 3 course price fixed meal which was horrible. All 3 were so bad we actually went away hungry. I will probably focus on the brunches.

Pros: brunch

Cons: service

Posted 11/13/07

My husband and I had dinner at Union to celebrate his birthday. We went on a Tuesday night. It was quiet when we arrived but filled up quickly (not sure if this is the case every Tuesday night or not; it was Restaurant Week). We were seated early and relaxed with a cocktail until we were ready to order. Service was great and our waiter let us take our time...we didn't feel rushed at all. He also gave us great drink recommendations. We shared a gnocchi appetizer (the gnocchi was a bit too soft, but the flavor was excellent), I had steak (very good), and my husband had duck (cooked as he ordered it, and not fatty). The cornbread, brought out before our appetizer in its own cast iron pan, was excellent--moist with good flavor. We shared banana cream pie for dessert, which was also very good. The atmosphere was trendy but not off-putting. The manager brought over a birthday card that was signed by the staff.

Pros: service, cornbread

Posted 09/02/07

My wife and I have always been at least moderately impressed with Union (and all the other restaurants owned by Seth Woods and Jeff Gates). The food is always tasty and approachable, the staff amiable and polite and our greeting at the front door warm and friendly. But where we have never been sold are on any of the wine lists at any of the restaurants (with the exception of Aquitaine which we've always enjoyed browsing). However, this all changed on our last visit! As usual we were perusing the wine list for ANYTHING new and out-of-the-ordinary when our server (Jesse, who is one of the best!) asked if he could help with a selection. When he realized our questions were out of his league he sent over a rather sharply-suited young man who we were informed was the company "wine guy". We didn't know that the group had a "wine guy" unless they had kept him rather well hidden. My wife was interested to see what this youngster could do for us and after giving him the 3rd, 4th and 5th degrees she was satisfied with his knowledge-level and allowed him to guide us to something we had never had (and which was not even on the list yet). For the life of me I can't remember what he poured for us (Italian, something to do with Barolo?) and it was stunning. We have never felt more taken care of and hope that this young man, whose name we forgot to even ask, will help Union and the rest of Chef Gate's restaurants rise to the heights we know they can achieve.
-X and Wife

Pros: NEW WINE GUY! IMPROVED WINE LIST! Killer service, impeccable warmth

Cons: Can be loud, lots of regulars so tables go fast, only romantic if you can get a corner banquette

Posted 06/22/07

I'm surprised so few people we've talked to have heard of Union! I took some work associates here for dinner early in the month and we had a wonderful time. Despite arriving for our 7:00 reservation 25 minutes late we were still seated right away AND at a reasonably quiet table, making it possible for my colleagues and I to get work done without shouting. Our server was well-spoken and personable and answered all of our questions thoughtfully. The restaurant's young, but very knowledgeable sommelier (I had to look up how to spell it) gave us a wide range of options for wine and after really taking time to talk us through our likes and dislikes helped us to settle on a bottle of pink champagne from Alsace and a zinfandel from Elyse, which none of us had ever heard of. The food was amazing, all served hot, at the temperatures we ordered and the oysters and accompanying sauces were particularly good (don't miss the Imperial Eagles). A great night was had by all complete with a fantastic bread pudding and a warm smile as we left. We shall return!

Pros: decor, servers, wine list

Cons: too few bathrooms

Posted 06/20/07

As a visitor to Boston, we had very high expectations after reading all the great reviews. We made our weekend reservation way in advance, requesting a 7:30 seating, but opting for a 6:00 seating because they informed us that there were no other later reservations for two available. When we arrived, the hostess staff was not very welcoming or polite, they rather chatted amongst themselves. To our surprise, the restaurant was 80% empty. It filled up as the night went on, but only to 75% capacity. I'm sure we could have had a 7:30 seating after all. The decor was uninviting, rustic charm meets martini lounge, quite unmatched. The tables for two were very close together, making it uncomfortable being next to other couples. (Ask for a window seat if you end up going.) The wait staff wore jeans. For the price you pay, I would have expected better service, better dressed servers, and larger portions. Overall the night was a bomb. After Union, we went back to the hotel and ordered room service.

Pros: location

Cons: decor, wait staff dress, small portions, reservations "unavailable for desired time", although many empty tables

Posted 04/25/07

Great service, great atmosphere, and the food was incredible. I could eat here every night. The cornbread and WILD Alaskan King Salmon made me feel like I was back on the Alaskan cruise we took last summer!

Posted 04/25/07

I love Union!!!! I come here probably twice a year with the significant other and we are always pleased with whatever we order. I also ordered the haddock and absolutely loved it (better than Legals). Our server was professional without the fake accent and snottiness of other fine dining establishments in the area.

I've never waited because I always make reservations (I don't think you have to though).

I forget our servers name last time I came here, but he was the best we've ever had - offered his suggestions for complimentary wines to go with each of our meals, asked us if we needed anything and if the food was cooked to our liking, and told us about the specials without sounding like a robot.

Pros: Phenomenal food.

Cons: Street parking is limited, so you have to cough up money for valet most of the time.

Posted 04/24/07

My boyfriend and I had the opportunity to eat at Union for our 2 year anniversary. Everything about the meal was wonderful. The waiter was knowledgeable and friendly, the food was prepared nicely with amazing flavor and the atmosphere created a romantic yet inviting experience. We especially loved the interesting cocktail menu and the wine selection. Unlike other "trendy" restaurants fellow customers were extremely friendly and at no time did we feel like we didn't belong. Although the menu is alittle of the pricey side, the restaurant is a wonderful choice for a fun night out with a group or a romantic meal for two. This is by far my favorite place to dine in Boston.

Pros: Food, ambience, service, cocktail menu

Cons: none

Posted 03/01/07

This is my first time message but I just had to compliment Union. I went here last night for my anniversary & couldn't have been more pleased! They brought complimentary champagne to our table, the food (apps to dessert) was excellent (best haddock I've tasted in my life - haddock is generally a boring fish but they found a way to make it exciting and great) & the wine was delicious. Our server was very personable & on the ball & the setting was very cool ---- definitely a must try!

Pros: food, ambience, service

Cons: the building next door is under construction - which is a little off putting

Posted 01/23/07

Union is out of my way but I make it a point to go whenever I get the chance. The food is always tasty as well as their cocktails. I love their martinis! Union is always my suggestion when people are looking to enjoy a nice dinner. I still go in jeans and sneakers because I don't care and neither does Union. It's my favorite!

Posted 11/02/06

First time out to Union and enjoyed every bit of it. Our server was very pleasant made wonderful recommendations which we all enjoyed. The wine list was extensive. I truly enjoyed the atmosphere. This was a pleasant experience. union had all the vital compotents of an outstanding establishment.

Pros: everything!

Posted 09/26/06

A good friend brought me here on a Thursday night. We had a fantastic meal. The cocktails are large (and expensive) and the food portions are reasonable for the price. I had the scallop special with mushrooms, root veggies and a beure rouge; my friend had a delicious salmon entree. After you order, the waiter brings out a small cast iron skillet with fresh corn bread - SO YUMMY! The room is beautiful, as is the bar, and the waitstaff is super friendly. Some of the waiters there are incredibly CUTE as well. I highly recommend this spot.

Pros: Great food, drinks, eye-candy

Cons: on the expensive side

Posted 09/16/06

I am always excited to have new restaurants in the area and went to check this one out last weekend. The duck confit appetizer was the highlight. The rest of the food was good but not outstanding. I was unimpressed with our waiter who seemed genuinely annoyed he had to wait on us and it was approximately 95 degrees in the restaurant making it very uncomfortable to be there. It is obviously a hot spot and people watching was cool- but at these prices I would prefer Hammersely or Aquaitaine.

Pros: people watching

Cons: wait staff, climate control

Posted 04/05/06

Chose it b/c of great reviews. Boyfriend & I went on the Sun before President's Day. Our reservations were for 10pm and the place was still packed. We were seated quickly. Our server seemed very busy with other tables. We ordered a bottle of wine when the waiter came by-waited 20 min and no drinks. We told the hostess we would rather sit at bar & have some drinks & appetizers. They were extremely apologetic and we understood the placed was understaffed. They gave us 4 appetizers, champagne toast, bottle of wine and dessert all on the house for deciding to stay at the restaurant. We totally didn't expect the whole meal to be comp!!! The waiter apologized and the staff was extremely attentive to all our needs. Would definitely go back again b/c of their great food (the cod cakes are the best!) and their eagerness to please us.

Pros: Decor, Food, Friendly staff

Cons: loud for conversation

Posted 02/19/06

Union provided a great dining experience -- impressive food, decor and service. The room has a chic and modern but stately decor. The menu is nicely varied, with something for everyone, and my order of beef tenderloin was cooked to perfection. The waitstaff was very attentive and provided great, nondisruptive service. I look forward to going back again!

Pros: Great food, Excellent service, Nice decor

Cons: Pricey

Posted 02/10/06

I love the decor. Can there be better seating than a big leather wrap around booth? Our party of five all sat nicely around the table so that we all faced each other and could have help a conversation if it wasn't so noisy. The staff is very attentive and knowlegable. The food was excellent! Desserts were good, but not as good as expected. Valet parking was well worth it at $14. WOuld go again!

Pros: good food, decor, service

Cons: noisy

Posted 01/19/06

I guess this place has been open for awhile but its new to me...boy has the neighborhood changed. Took my girlfriends parents their on a strong recomendation from a friend.They were very nice on the phone and when we arrived. The restaurant was very busy for a Tuesday which made me happy since my future in laws took it as a sign of a great choice.After a wonderful meal and service I can see why they are packed.

Pros: Friendly staff, Great food, Excellent service

Posted 11/21/05

We still had to wait even though we had reservations (15min). Food was good although not amazing. They did however make up for our wait with a complimentary appetizer from the chef. Steak was not done correctly after two tries. I guess they thought medium meant rare. They again tried to make up for inconvenince with a dessert plate on the house. I have to say the service was EXCELLENT. And even though there were hickups during the night they tried to do their best to make up for them. On the pricey $$$side.

Pros: service, accomodating, ambience

Cons: wait, perparation

Posted 11/08/05

The ambiance of the place is great. For the price, however, the quality and quantity of food was lacking. Their "$10K Tuna", for which the chef apparently won a 'tuna rub' contest, was extremely over-flavored and the quality of the tuna itself was mediocre. Also, the portion of the tuna was extremely meager. Their speciality desert, a banana cream pie, was also mediocre and, again, was very small in portion size. Despite our best efforts to diversify, everything we ate had a similar spicy flavor. Overall, if you are a foodie and looking for a terrific meal, you're better of going elsewhere.

Pros: ambiance, service

Cons: overpriced, small portions, flavors too similar

Posted 10/25/05

Great decor, nice wait staff and the food was delicious. Portions are adequate. The steak and the Haddock are great choices. Don't miss this place.

Pros: Ambience, Entrees

Posted 08/24/05

The food is sumptuous, the cocktails magnificent, the wine list is quite good but above all the service is just unbelievably good. I've been there at least 5 times and each time had a different server who was just perfect - so much so that I had no qualms about tipping at least 30% each time.

Posted 03/26/05

Went for dinner and had a wonderful evening.After a short 10 minute wait we were seating at a table for two that actually had some room between it and the othe deuces.This is something of a rarity in newer "hip" restaurants these days.
Great wine list,attentive service by multiple staff members and nice people-watching.
Had the Skate fish special that was superbly(melt-in -your-mouth)cooked.Also ordered lamb,scallops and risotto to start the night off.All delectable.Will def. return.

Pros: food, service, esthetics

Posted 01/28/05

Just about everything about Union is first-rate - at least, all of the important things are. Great setting, attentive and polite service (not focused on rushing things along, contrary to the review in the Improper), good values for exquisitely prepared and delicious food. Only a few small issues might have made the experience even better; for one, the yellowtail flounder, while just as delicious as the other fish options on the menu, comes in a portion far smaller than do the $10K tuna or the salmon; and, while the desserts - particularly the creme brulee and bread pudding - were excellent in taste, they would have been improved by being served warm rather than cold. All things considered, however, given its excellent food, great experience, and surprisingly reasonable prices, Union has to be considered one of Boston's best restaurants.

Pros: service, value

Posted 12/12/04

A truly superb experience. Service was perfect from the moment we entered until the time we left. Food was delicious...definitely try the chicken and tuna! Fantastic selection from beginning to end. Highly recommend. Don't listen to the editorial recommendation for "dressy attire"...you are more than comfortable with jeans.

Pros: Service, Food

Posted 11/11/04

My wife and I had dinner 2 weeks ago. Yummy food, EXCELLENT drinks, and flawless service. The management keeps a very tight ship here - you can tell. I dropped my dinner napkin without realizing it and magically a new one appeared - the way it should be. Ambience and lighting is AMAZING. A bit of NYC in Boston. Highly recommended.

Posted 09/11/04

Great ambiance, place for drinks and a date spot. Food was good (not great) - although promising, I will definitely go back to try it agian. The bread is outstanding, hot, cooked for each table. Great wine list.

Posted 08/14/04

I was in town for a convention earlier this week, and a business contact took me here. It was FABULOUS! Everything from the food to the service was super - nothing fell short. In fact, my expectations were exceeded on every level.

Posted 07/22/04

When your experience is absolutely perfect at any restaurant, you have to pinch yourself and say "Am I dreaming?" Usually something falls a little short ! Not at the Union Bar & Grille the night we went. From the attentive service, the incredible food (we had steaks, and the best calmari we've ever had), right down to the dessert (they have a great sampler if you can't decide!), Union does not dissapoint . . .

Posted 07/10/04

Very formulaic Seth Woods. The food tends to be over-seasoned and very rich; too many flavors fighting each other and too hearty. Stay with the fish/seafood for lighter fare on both the appetizers and main courses. Great room and decor, mediocre service, improved wine list but still overall expensive for the vintages. For steak, still prefer Grill 23.

Pros: room/decor

Posted 06/02/04

As a first trip to what I was told is the "hottest table in town, " we were not disappointed. Promptly seated for our 8pm reservation, the warm corn bread placed on the table was delectable and different. The mixed lettuce salad was good but nothing in comparison to the Risotto or short ribs app. Go for either. As a main dish, the tuna was wonderful but could have used some type of sauce on the plate to spice it up. The salmon was a HIT and the tenderloin was tender! The aphrodisiac milkshake was tempting, but our bellies were satisfied. A definite winner.

Pros: food, service, location

Posted 05/09/04

"The food is tremendous and so is the Staff. I highly recommend to anyone looking for an upscale Neighborhood restaurant. Been there three times so far and I've never been disapointed.

Posted 03/14/04

We had the pleasure of visiting the Union Restaurant last night and were pleasantly surprised. First, we were glad we made a reservation, as it was unusually busy for a Tuesday night. We were greeted by a gracious hostess who seated us right away. Despite the odd location of our table, (right in front of the dining room door), the ambiance was wonderfully construed with dark leather banquettes, votive candles and wrot-iron cathedral chandeliers. Our service was sensational, as our waiter carried out each our requests, (including specific timing on each course of our meal), without a hitch. Additionally, the wine service was impeccable. Everything from the appeteizer to the dessert, (including the birthday candle), were wonderful. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who is willing to meet the price range!

Pros: Service, Ambiance, Food

Posted 03/03/04

I have always been impressed with the excellent service and food at Union's partner restaurants (Aquitaine Bis, Aquitaine, Armani, Metropolis) and have never hesitated recommending these places to others. I think this is why I was so surprised by how the host greeted and spoke with my father (the nicest guy in the world!).
We live locally and walked by Union, stepped in and asked for a table for 3. The hostess raised her finger and asked me to wait for a moment. The host then came and told us that there was a 2 hour wait. My father said that was too long and so we decided to leave and go to Caffe Umbra. As we were leaving the host called out, "Next time call ahead. Next time make a reservation!"
Thanks for the advice, but don't worry, there won't be a next time.

Pros: Location, Decor

Cons: Host and Hostess

Posted 01/20/04

I visited this restauarant withing a couple weeks of its opening and I was certainly impressed by all the food I tried. The calamari was as tasty as any I have every had before (even those who aren't calamari fans will like this one). I tried my date's tuna and saw why it is their signature.
My only diappointment was the lobster fricassee- it was about the size of a postage-stamp and did not contain any lobster that I noticed. I wouldn't have minded except that I ordered it for my meal (it is an appetizer) and the waiter said "excellent choice." I guess it was new and not all the waiters had learned the menu yet, but I just would have appreciated a head-up on that- it would have made more sense for me to have had the calamari as my meal. Overall it was very nice, however.

Pros: ambience, signature dish

Cons: pricy

Posted 10/26/03