(TV Diner) - Fairly new to the Newton Center dining scene, B Street Restaurant & Bar is one small, but very cool spot inspired by art deco with patterned and burgundy walls, vibrant pink light fixtures and an easy, yet sophisticated vibe that matches a menu of upscale hearty fare.
We started out with a rather bland pumpkin hummus served with grilled naan bread. Short in flavor and heavy in consistency, this first course didn't make the grade.
But B Street gets an A for its braised short rib quesadilla. Tender pulled beef and creamy cheese enveloped in four large triangles, sided by tangy red sauce was a winner.
On to the pork tenderloin. Seasoned lightly and char-grilled to a turn, the generous rounds of meat served over mouth-watering roasted corn and bacon succotash were succulent.
A thick cut of pan-seared cod tasted ocean fresh, but the lumpy couscous and over-cooked summer squash at its side took away from the otherwise enjoyable fish dish.
B Street 's tempting dessert menu had us choosing among seven equally excellent sounding sweet endings. We were more than happy with the ice cream parfait with chocolate chip cookie crumble and chocolate espresso sauce.
And while the ample bowl of strawberry rhubarb crisp with vanilla bean ice cream was a fine combo of sweet and tart, the chunky granola topping was hard on the molars and did nothing to enhance the fresh fruit mixture.
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Although the wait staff was friendly, several service details were lacking. Water glasses were not refilled, fresh cutlery between courses never offered and our table didn't receive a bread basket…even though others did.
We will say that the price point is more than reasonable at B Street with appetizers from $5 to $11; entrees $13 to $26; and desserts just seven bucks.
It may take a bit more time to achieve the high marks it seems capable of, but for now B Street Restaurant and Bar will earn the Silver Plate.
Open daily for lunch and dinner and weekend brunch, B Street is located at 796 Beacon St. in Newton Center, Mass. Call 617-332-8743 or check out the menu at www.bstreetnewton.com
