It’s quite rare to come across a dining establishment that showcases the expertise of a Master Sommelier. In reality, there exist only 168 individuals nationwide who have attained the esteemed recognition from the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas.
In the realm of Boston’s culinary scene, a prominent steakhouse is proudly showcasing the presence of two Master Sommeliers.
During the month of September, Alex Powell clinched the title of Master Sommelier, adding to the expertise of Brahm Callahan, the Beverage Director of Himmel Hospitality Group, as the sole two Master Sommeliers in the Boston region.
This year, a total of 45 aspirants from 16 states and three different countries undertook the rigorous Master Sommelier Diploma Examination. Out of this pool of 45, a mere 10 were granted the sought-after Master Sommelier designation. (Powell stands as the only individual from the Eastern Coast to receive this prestigious accolade).
For nearly four decades, Grill 23 & Bar has been setting the standard for premier steakhouses in Boston. They are on the cusp of celebrating 40 years as the city’s premier culinary destination, renowned not only for their traditional steakhouse dishes but also for their inventive seafood offerings inspired by New England cuisine.
Having recently been honored with Wine Spectator‘s Grand Award (a distinction exclusively held by this Boston establishment), Grill 23 stands out for its commitment to utilizing solely all-natural, prime beef, in addition to their innovative and fresh seafood presentations.
Our recent visit to the restaurant landed us in the intimate upstairs bar area, offering a more laid-back take on fine dining. Indulge in one of their distinctive martinis or seek guidance from Powell on selecting the ideal wine pairing.
We suggest commencing your dining experience with their delectable crab cakes, accompanied by delightful cabbage slaw, pickled pearl onions, and luscious tartar sauce. The irresistible fried calamari comes livened up with cherry peppers. Alternative starters feature American Kobe steak tartare, jumbo lump crab salad, a classic wedge salad, and an opulent shellfish tower.
When it comes to the steaks, Grill 23 undoubtedly lives up to its esteemed reputation of offering the finest cuts in the city. Their a la carte menu showcases options like an American Kobe cap steak, striploin Grade A5 Wagyu, filet mignon, and prime porterhouse; however, the true stars of the show are the dry-aged prime New York strip and the 100-day aged prime ribeye.
Prepared to a succulent medium rare, the steaks boast exceptional marbling and an explosion of flavors. Enhance your steak with their signature steak sauce, truffle butter, au poivre brandy peppercorn cream, or perhaps opt for a lobster tail, Hudson Valley foie gras, or grilled shrimp.
The side dishes are generously portioned for sharing. We recommend sampling dishes such as sautéed mushrooms with roasted garlic, sumptuous Taleggio creamed spinach adorned with pancetta brioche crumbs, and the loaded baked potato filled with bacon crumble, sour cream cheddar cheese sauce, and fresh chives. Other side offerings encompass roasted asparagus, A5 Thumbelina carrots, Brussels sprouts, crispy hash browns, Grill 23 tots, and luscious lobster mac n’ cheese.
If you manage to keep a bit of room for dessert (or perhaps wish to take some home for later), their array of sweet delights promises to be a tantalizing experience. From their signature G23 chocolate chip cookies paired with vanilla milk and the renowned coconut cake served alongside pineapple sherbet to the PX Affogato and the indulgent chocolate layer cake, every bite is a worthwhile indulgence.
Image Source: Just Luxe
