You Can banQ On It

Rating: 5 forks

Yes, that is five forks (out of a possible five!). We made it to banQ this week for dinner, and it was simply put: spectacular. You may ask - like I did - how can a restaurant nail-it on week one? Well, I don't know, its rare, and they did it; restaurateurs, visit and take notes. The sexy and sophisticated space on Washington St in the South End, occupying the old Penny Savings Bank, is stunning, with panels of smooth banana wood (or birch, I have heard both) cut at varying lengths hanging from the ceiling to create a flowing wave effect, smooth table tops upon concrete floors, lots of straight lines with warm light throughout that all contribute to it's simple elegance (my favorite style).

The staff was very friendly, and our waitress and the service was perfect. As for the cuisine, categorized as French-inspired with a broad international influence, we enjoyed a few starters, kicked-off by their "bread" plate of warm naan-like patties. Next, a couple "small bites":

Soy Ginger Lamb Loin $5.50
Spring Roll with Roquefort glaze

Fire-Charred Sea Scallops $5.50
with Indian lentils

And from the appetizer menu:

Cumin Scented Green Pea Soup $9
soy ginger Monkfish wontons, straw potatoes

And for the main course, I selected:

Grilled Cod $26
dusted with morels, Pommery banana flower relish, lotus root Provencal, a green tea miso beurre blanc

And the beau feasted on:

A Braised Short Rib
Not listed on the Web site so I can't provide more detail for you!

WOW! Everything was spectacular! The cod was crispy on the outside and perfectly seared, and the lotus root was a delightful new side dish for my taste buds, while the generous portion of short rib was rich and sinful, eaten sans a knife of course. It's so great to see that the banQ Web site is finally live, complete with the menu. You must check it out.

The entrees are under $26, the portion size is liberal, and the drink menu is unique and fun. Another very welcome addition to Boston's South End, a neighborhood that's simply bursting with flavor. If you swing by banQ, please check back in and leave me your review in the comments section; I am so curious what the buzz is and if you agree with my rating!

banQ
1375 Washington st.
Boston, MA 02118   
617.451.0077
www.banqrestaurant.com
Valet: $16