(TV Diner) - With plans to become a new hotspot in happening downtown New Haven, the 'all American' Box 63, touts the slogan "Eat With Your Hands". We had to go see what that was all about.
The menu features classic American fare. Think burgers, fries and flatbreads with fancy offerings such as chioppino and jambalaya thrown in. The building itself was a former firehouse and the menu professes that Box donates a portion of its profits to the National Firefighter's Association. A civically conscious burger joint. We like it.
We started with the Eggplant Fries. A ginormous, heap of these crispy sticks, dusted with parmesan were served with an awesome creamy wasabi dipping sauce and yummy marinara.
Next up were the Buffalo Wings. We were impressed. Meaty and crisp and still plenty moist, we slathered them with delicious, chunky blue cheese.
The Red Hot and Blue Burger was to die for. Two juicy patties, topped with blue cheese, roasted red pepper, spinach and chipotle aioli were served on a fluffy potato bun and accompanied by the best darn fries we ever tasted.!
The Big Apple Flatbread was also quite amazing. This thin pizza covered in lovely gorgonzola with sweet apples and caramelized onions was a decadent treat.
The PB and J was much more sophisticated than it sounds. Light spongy layers alternated between a berry spread and fluffy peanuty filling with a fresh, cool icing. We loved it!
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The Bread Pudding was hearty, rich.. and filling!. Plenty of raisins and nuts held our interest and we adored the sweet creamy drizzle. Yum!
Service was very good at Box 63. Servers were friendly and laid back providing a fun, casual atmosphere.
We found the value to be excellent with large portions and high quality ingredients. Just about everything on the menu is between $10-$20 depending on your upgrades and there are a few snack options such as chili for under $10.
Overall we rate Box 63 the coveted Platinum Plate for an excellent dining experience. They can be found at 338 Elm St and the corner of Park in New Haven, Conn., and can be reached at 203-821-7772 or on the web at www.box63.com. Be sure to check out their great happy hour specials, drink list and outdoor patio and bar. Parking is available on street and in nearby garages. See you there!
