(TV Diner) - Fairly new to the Metro West dining scene, Sea Dog Steak and Ale in Northborough, Massachusetts combines earth-toned walls, wood-topped tables and mahogany booths with an industrial-style ceiling, lending a stylish air to this lively steak house where beef, signature brews and a seasonally-inspired menu rule the roost.
Things got off to a good start with two praiseworthy crab cakes. The delicious rounds were crisp on the outside, holding a moist and creamy center made even more mouth-watering by a roasted red pepper and lime sauce.
A chop salad featuring cucumbers, onions, cheese, olives, garbanzo beans, salami and a blue cheese vinaigrette was sturdy and satisfying.
On to an eighteen-ounce bone-in rib-eye. The surprisingly lean cut of beef was cooked to our medium rare liking and seasoned just right. Served up with our choice of two sides - asparagus and blue cheese mashed potatoes - the tender prime beef was a winner.
But we were a bit under whelmed by a provimi veal chop. While it was aces in the flavor department, the chop we devoured the night we visited was rather small and the sautéed mushrooms and au gratin potatoes at its side not hot enough.
Dessert beckoned and we heeded the call, savoring the gooey goodness of a decadent turtle pie.
And our eyes widened with delight as a plate of cookies and milk was set before us. It doesn't get much better than five warm thick chocolate chip cookies and a tumbler of cold milk for dipping.
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Have to say that our friendly waitress hit all the right notes by never skipping a beat in delivering proper service.
Prices run a wide range at Sea Dog Steak and Ale with soups, salads and appetizers from $5.95 to $17.95; sandwiches averaging $9; entrees $12.95 to $29.95 and desserts landing at $5.95.
We should mention that this 120-seat room can get noisy. Still, despite the sound level and a couple other small snafus, Sea Dog Steak and Ale has plenty to offer and for that it will take the Gold Plate.
Open daily, Seadog Steak and Ale is located at 318 Main Street in the Post Road Marketplace in Northborough, Massachusetts. Call 508-466-8531 or check out www.seadogsteakale.com
