Thursday, April 20, 2023

Thursday Sips & Nibbles

I'm back again with a new edition of Sips & Nibbles, my regular column where I highlight some interesting, upcoming food and drink events. I hope everyone dines out safely, tips well and are nice to their servers.
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1) Chopps Italian Steakhouse & Bar in the Boston Marriot Burlington, has now reopened after closing over two years ago. After a major renovation, Chopps now features a reinvigorated space and a refreshed culinary program led by Executive Chef Matthew Clabbers. The culinary program has been reimagined to an Italian steakhouse with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients and quality. Diners can choose from an array of small plates and inventive comfort food presentations while indulging off the extensive list of cocktails and fine wines.

You can come in and have a 5-star meal while still enjoying large family-style servings of pastas and steaks,” said Executive Chef Matthew Clabbers. “We’re serious about the food but we want to have a relaxed, good time. Guests can enjoy a casual meal with friends and family while soaking in live music in a modern yet comfortable atmosphere.”

The new dinner menu ushers in pastas, fresh local seafood, and a range of meats. Standout appetizers include Housemade Ricotta (basil oil, grilled crostini) and Arancini (arborio rice, provolone, pomodoro, fresh basil, parmesan) and Italian classics such as the Caprese (heirloom tomato, fresh basil, mozzarella, pesto, balsamic), Pappardelle Bolognese (beef, veal, pork, pomodoro, cream fresh pappardelle, ricotta) and Parmesan Eggplant (pomodoro, linguini, mozzarella, parmesan). 

Guests can also enjoy the Filet Mignon (garlic mashed, sautéed baby spinach, gremolata), Charbroiled Ribeye (dressed arugula greens, roasted trumpet mushroom, onion rings, garlic mashed, asparagus) and NY Sirloin (garlic-caper crush, blistered cherry tomato, roasted potato). The dishes are paired with a curated wine list and hand-crafted cocktails like the Italian Red Sangria (sangiovese, tuaca, sweet vermouth, limoncello, fresh fruit), Espresso Martini (Stoli vanilla vodka, Kahlúa, Baileys Irish Cream, espresso), and Negroni (Malfy orange gin, Campari, sweet vermouth).

The newly added spacious outdoor terrace can fit 40 seated and 70 standing and provides ample room for relaxing alfresco dining. The newly configured bar offers expanded seating, ideal for those looking to enjoy a lively bar scene with live music. A new private dining room offers an intimate and warm setting for personal gatherings and doubles as a secluded space for corporate meetings. It can host 28 seated and 40 standing.

2) Bonde Fine Wine Shop, located in the heart of Harvard Square, announced its 2023 spring event list, featuring their Weekly Wednesday's Wine Tasting Classes and the return of the Winemaker Tasting Series. The Wednesday's Wine Tasting Classes are held from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. and tickets are available online for $85+ per person and include four wines and light food samplings.

The schedule of these tastings is listed below:
Wednesday, May 3 – Nouveau Wines
Wednesday, May 17 – Spanish Wine Grapes
Wednesday, May 31 – Perfect Grill Pairings
Wednesday, June 14 – Beach Wines
Wednesday, June 28 – Pétillant Naturel

In addition to the Wednesday event schedule, Bonde will host a Winemaker Tasting Series on Friday, April 21, starting at 7:00 p.m. Enjoy an evening with one of Carneros California's winemakers, Byron Kosuge, as he joins the table at Bonde to share his story, his wines, & his take on the future of the ever-changing wine world on the west coast. A flight of four wines and light food included. On Tuesday, May 9, Bonde will also offer an incredible opportunity that will bring Central Coast, California winemaking stars and dynamic duo Louisa Sawyer-Lindquist and Bob Lindquist to the table at Bonde for an evening of Rhône and Iberian-inspired wines. These classes will provide the tools to last a lifetime of enjoying wine. Hosted by internationally renowned sommelier Bertil Jean-Chronberg in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for up to eight participants.

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