Oh, April in Massachusetts. Every year it’s the same: doldrums, gloom, and plenty of rain until Spring bursts gloriously forth at the end of the month and it suddenly seems that there could be no greater joy than to live in such a wonderful place. Suddenly, you fall back in love with Boston so much that you want to make it a mix CD. (Sidebar: we actually made a Massachusetts-themed mix once. It was really pretty great.) This spring, Boston restaurateurs are upping the ante on your Bay State spring fever by opening some brand-new and very exciting spots. Because we care, here’s what you have to look forward to in the next few months. Feel free to start writing your mash notes now.
•We’ve already discussed our deep obsession with Wagamama. Seriously. We’ve been missing their ramen and gyoza since the last time we were in London well over two years ago. Our wait is almost over, as the Faneuil Hall Wagamama opens in a mere four days! Rest assured, we are counting down the minutes.
•The brilliant restaurateurs of The Sapphire Group (the team behind blu, Rialto and Noir) are launching their new venture, a South End spot called Rocca that will focus on the cuisine of Italy’s Liguria region, on April 25. Awesomely, they have a blog-ish website where they detail the work involved in opening a restaurant. Fascinating (and appetizing!) reading.
•Between Rocca and Gaslight Brasserie Du Coin, the new spot from the Aquitaine Group (proprietors of (among others) Acquitaine, Union Bar & Grill, and Armani Cafe) set to open this summer, Harrison Ave is set to become the South End’s new restaurant row.
Wagamama, 1 Faneuil Hall Sq (in Quincy Market), Boston, 02109
Rocca, 500 Harrison Ave, South End, 02118
Gaslight Brasserie Du Coin, 560 Harrison Ave, South End, 02118
[Photo: Jarrett House North]
