Menu Bargains

Many restaurants are feeling the economic squeeze and they are taking steps accordingly to try to entice people to dine out. What this means is that you can find inexpensive or less expensive specials at many places, including some high-end restaurants. So if you can treat yourself to a night out, this may be the time to try some place new. Here are a couple suggestions.

At the Eliot Hotel in Boston, both Clio and Uni are offering specials. I am a big fan of Clio but it is pricey, though well worth it. Right now, they are running a Weeknight special, a 3-course Market Menu for $49. They also have a new bar menu with small plates and Japanese inspired tapas. I like Uni as well, but feel the portions are often small and too pricey. But as a special, they are running Maki Mondays, offering all-you-can-eat maki for only $32. I think that is a good deal and probably will try to drop by soon to check it out.

Do you enjoy lobster and/or oysters? They too are usually pricey though B&G Oysters is running some specials this winter. From January through March, they are offering a special small plate menu focusing on lobster and oysters.

On Sunday evenings, starting January 11, they will feature Oyster Small Plates. They have created over 15 variations of the oyster on the half shell, which will change weekly. Dishes will include Oyster Shooters, Poached Oysters with Caviar and Crème Fraîche, and Baked Stuffed Oysters. Prices range from $3 to $12 per plate.

On Monday evenings, starting January 12, they will feature Lobster Small Plates. They will feature traditional dishes, such as Lobster Bisque, as well as their own signatures dishes such as Lobster Sliders. The menu will change weekly. Prices range from $6 to $12 per plate.