The Butcher Shop

Reviews 12

KR

Kristy Thibodeau

A meat eaters paradise. Sausage links hanging from the fridge in the back, an 8×10 butcher block parked in front of photos on the wall that, at first glance, could be confused for something other than encased meats, all helped to set the atmosphere of The Butcher Shop. As we got out of the cab, my first impression was how small and dark the place seemed. That quickly changed when we arrived at our table and I noticed the Citizen Cope music playing in the background (plus two points). We ordered a bottle of the pinot noir special- excellent recommendation from our handsome waiter. Then it was decision time, we split a fig and goat cheese salad that was the perfect proportion for three of us to split. Although, after experiencing “the fig”, I was left wondering “did that even happen?” because it didn’t have much of a taste. Luckily for us, there was enough goat cheese on the plate to create cheese and fig forkfuls that were delightful. The brown paper menus were very “earthy” and added to the grass-fed atmosphere. I ordered the special for the evening, the lamb. My two cohorts both ordered one of the smaller steaks, one with the butter sauce, the other going for the house A9 sauce. While we waited for our meal, our waiter brought over bread with sea salt butter and condensed honey. AMAZING. When our food arrived, we were all very impressed by the overall presentation of the lamb. Wrapped in three individual pinwheels over a bead of rice, I was intrigued by the not-so- traditional plating. The meal was delicious. It was by far the best lamb I have had. The two steaks were cooked as requested, medium rare. Both were delicious and seared nicely on the outside to lock in the flavors. The house steak sauce was more of a BBQ sauce, which seemed to overpower the taste of the steak. The side plates of polenta, creamed spinach, and fingerling potatoes were the perfect accompaniment to our meals. While nothing to write home about- they served their purpose and didn’t take over the focus of the meal… the MEAT. The price was on the high side, but felt appropriate for our quality of meal and service. All in all, if you are looking for a tucked away protein packed gem, I highly recommend The Butcher shop.

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JE

Jennifer DiMase

One of my favorite places to dine in the South End. You can go fancy and get a full multi-course meal for a pretty penny (but worth every cent), or you can just stop by for a delicious glass of their latest featured wine and a few savory appetizers or a tantalizing dessert. Both the food and the ambiance here are top notch, and the servers are very attentive and knowledgeable. To be specific: THE FOOD: Ive never been disappointed here. The olive oil cake was a touch unusual, but I enjoy flavor combinations that are a little out of the ordinary. I would definitely recommend the cheese plate, as they always have good quality cheeses, and they can match a wine with it, too. THE DECOR: Just the right amount of natural light and dim interior to feel cozy but fancy at the same time (if that makes any sense). They have a butcher block table that you can stand at to eat, where they lay down a piece of brown paper and place a setting. Its a neat communal feel. The bar is also enjoyable to sit at, and good for people watching, either the other diners in the restaurant or the people passing by on Tremont.

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JO

Joshua Berk

Chef Barbara Lynchs culinary magic is aptly demonstrated here, at her globally-influenced butcher shop + restaurant/boîte; its one of the do-not-miss gastro-pubs in Bostons South End, offering air-cured meats, housemade patés, terrines, sausages, rilletes, and various specials. Check the stellar wine list, hand-picked by Cat Silrie. Before the meal, youll enjoy fresh Vermont butter, sea salt, brown bread, and rhubarb jam. Pro-Tip: Get a window-seat to people-watch the stylish Bostonians. Highlights: Steak Tartare, Petite/Grand Charcuterie, Lamb Carpaccio, Hot Dog a la Maison, Salumi Risotto, Spicy Tomato Soup (w/ricotta + aged Balsamic).

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A

A Private User

Absolutely the worst experience I have ever had, service was horriffic, and food was not only microscopic ( my 2 year old daughter would still be starving) flavor was bland and unappetzing ( plates too big for the small portions) the beer was warm, and took forever to get food, not really understanding how the wait staff could be all that busy since there are 3 tables in the whole place. DON"T waste the time or $$$$, I am all about nouvelle cuisine, but this place sucks!!

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MI

Michael Sierra-Arévalo

Intimate eatery that prides itself on its meat dishes. The beef carpaccio and charcuterie board were excellent, as were the duck breast and sirloin entrees, though the bolognese was a bit on the salty side. The tomato soup was also delicious, and you cant beat having Lord Hobo available to wash it all down. The flourless chocolate cake is an appropriately scrumptious way finish off what will surely be an outstanding overall meal.

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A

A Private User

The staff obviously know their stuff and the venue has a really nice atmosphere, however the restaurant is very expensive for what it is. We went last night and had their restuarant week set menu. The Hanger steak main was a joke. It was 5oz and came only with a knob of butter. If this is a set menu, there should be no need to order sides as well. The waitress did not mention this to us. Wont be going back.

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A

A Private User

This place is amazing! Matt our server was sensational! he was working with a Trainee John who both were very knowlagable on all their fine wines and cheeses. This is my second visit to this establishment and I would recommend it for any occasion, wether you just having a glass of wine or dinner. Plus their house prosecco was unbelievable! Five stars!!!!

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RI

Rick Cimyik

This was my first time at this restaurant and I was served a piece of tough meat, hardly what you expect for such an expensive meal. Not only was it tough, it came from the kitchen highly salted. Im not sure why they wouldnt let me solve it myself.Also, there were bright lights emanating from a large display case in the restaurant, not a pleasant feeling.

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AN

Andrei Lenard

Fantastic European style butcher restaurant in Boston! Their cuts are great, all the food is locally sourced and perfectly prepared! Their appetizers (pates) are delicious and the cheese selection is just enough to not scare anyone away but with true gems hidden away. I also highly recommend their burger in the summer on Sundays and Mondays!

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NA

Nathaniel Gopen

Worst dinner Ive had in Boston. Went with a friend, menu for a butcher shop was extremely limited, barely any meat on it. The food took forever to come out, it was the wrong order, and after it came back right it was not very good. The service was fine, the space is fine, but not something to return to. Many other better places in the city.

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NA

Nathan Green

At a quiet time, mid-afternoon, delicious and fun: we had ricotta gnudi (faux pasta dumplings); hangar steak hash with fingerling potatoes and forestiere mushrooms; chocolate mousse; and an Austrian Heinrich red from Cat Silierie --- all without fault except perhaps for the less-than-normal size of the pour.

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DA

Dave Barboza

This was the best steak Ive ever had in my life.  The end. My absolutely wonderful wife took me here for my birthday.  The wait was about an hour.  Thankfully we were able to get some apps and drinks, including a plate of delicious olives, while we waited.  Wine, olives, and steak?  Right to my heart.

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