It feels like all of New England is just holding its breath, waiting for spring to arrive. Sure, we were treated to a mild winter, but that doesn't make us any less anxious to throw open the windows, dust off patio umbrellas, and get our hands in the garden dirt.
While you wait for the farmer's markets — selling their tomato starts, and little lettuces — and that first chilled glass of rosé in the afternoon sun, we've got seven area restaurants that are already in full bloom. Step inside, and get your chlorophyll fix. Warmer days will be here before you know it.
Journeyman, Somerville
The Union Square restaurant, which is housed in a former sauce-factory, has a minimalist industrial feel that's been softened with plenty of plant life. The space is undergoing some changes at the moment, as the owners remove all ovens and sous vide stations. With a tentative reopening slated for April 21st, Journeyman will continue to serve their 9-11 course tasting menus Thursday through Sunday, but according to their website, the food will be cooked "on little more than wood fires." Monday through Wednesday, they will be taking a more casual approach, welcoming walk-ins and serving à la carte plates.
9 Sanborn Ct., Somerville, 617-718-2333, journeymanrestaurant.com
Serafina, Boston
Interior designer Petra Hausberger from Somerton Park Interiorsin Brookline, found a way to give the Boston post of this New York-based Italian chain the look of a living wall, without too much upkeep,"We originally wanted to fill Serafinawith potted herbs and realized it would take a lot of extra care to maintain them," says the designer. "I had seen some beautiful floral designs by Suphoj Chancheaw ofBloom Couture Floral Studio on Tremont Street and together we came up with a plan to use moss to create a work of art for the dining room." The moss has been dried, and sealed to provide longevity, so it doesn't need the irrigation system which many living walls require. You get all the green without the gardener.
10 High St., Boston, 617-426-1234, serafinaboston.com
Catalyst, Cambridge
Known for its modern American cuisine, Catalyst is currently serving spring-like dishes like their green-garlic potato soup, and orchiette primavera - with baby shiitakes, radish, spinach and parmesan. Boston florist Winston Flowers services their living wall, and the restaurant team has to turn heat lamps on the plants each night to keep them in good shape. But according to chef William Kovel, it's worth it, "When we designed the space, we wanted elements of nature: fire (fireplace), wood (barn board) and living plants. We decided not to hang art, but rather have the space be the art." Settle in at the bar for the best view, and transport yourself to warmer climes sipping the Tech Square cooler "it's better than drinking alone," a mix of mezcal, pineapple, cassis, and soda.
300 Technology Sq., Cambridge 617-576-3000, catalystrestaurant.com
SRV, Boston
The South End wine bar is known for its ambitious wine list, and creative, Italian-focused cocktails, but its decor is also a major draw. General Manager Ted Hawkins says, "We decided to add the living wall to bring some green into our space which has a lot of metal, exposed brick walls and somewhat of an industrial feel. We felt like the plants softened it up a bit." Nibble duck breast with black garlic and salsify; gorgonzola dolce and walnuts over chicory; or one of the pastas made from house-milled grain, and take in the modern interpretation of a Venetian baraco.
569 Columbus Ave., Boston, 617-536-9500, srvboston.com
Also featured in Simply The Best Authentic Pasta Dishes In Boston.
Casa B, Somerville
This romantic little tapas restaurant focuses on Spanish and Caribbean dishes, and has the feel of those warmer, welcoming places. Manager Mayra Cabré tells us necessity was truly the mother of invention when designing their downstairs dining room in a basement. "We wanted to bring nature and a tropical atmosphere to Casa B, making it feel like you are looking at an interior courtyard. Our idea of the green wall has been a success! Our downstairs dining area is our most popular and wanted space." The restaurant is currently offering half-priced tapas Sunday through Thursday from 5-6 p.m., so you can sip mojitos, and snack on small plates for a very affordable mini vacation.
253 Washington St., Somerville, 617-764-2180, casabrestaurant.com
Life Alive, Cambridge
This juice bar is jamming at lunch hour, with a line snaking through the restaurant for their plant-based grain bowls,creative salads, and luscious smoothies. Our favorite drink is the spicy lust alive, with strawberry, banana, cacao, candied ginger and cinnamon. Place your order and investigate the wild terrarium while you wait.
765 Mass Ave., Cambridge, 617-354-5433, lifealive.com
Also featured in Healthy Salads You Can Find Around Boston and These Meals Are Some Of The Best Food In Boston.
