B & G Oysters
550 Tremont St, Boston, MA, 02116
B & G Oysters Menu
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Appetizers
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Raw Bar
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Seasonal Entrees
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B & G Classic Entrees
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Desserts
Healthy Meal suggestions for B & G Oysters
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Appetizers
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Raw Bar
-
Seasonal Entrees
-
B & G Classic Entrees
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Desserts
Visit below restaurant in Boston for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Boston for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
550 Tremont St
Boston, MA, 02116 - Phone (617) 423-0550
- Website https://www.bandgoysters.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:30 am - 10
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
Categories
Italian Cuisine
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
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Athena C.
The benefit of going on a business trip is you get to eat alone and don't feel awkward about it. Oh and it is covered by the company! Besides, it is easy to get a table when you are by yourself. So, I was here on a Thursday night and didn't need to wait to get a seat by the bar, which was perfect to witness the action of oyster hacking. I was here for one thing - Lobster BLT Roll. I honestly don't eat oysters but I would love to try all the top spots for lobster rolls. To start, I had their snow pea salad and I devoured the whole plate. It is very refreshing but the cheese on top makes it also filling. The lobster roll however, is definitely a heavy hitter. It comes with their pickle, coleslaw and a pile of nicely seasoned French Fries. The Lobster BLT roll uses a nice toasty bread with thick slices of bacon and mayo. Then, you would see a big pile of fresh lobster sit on top of the goodness. I was so full that I sacrificed half the bread so I can finish the lobster meat. It costs $30 a roll but it is well worth it. I would love to come back and try other dishes. Two women next to me know the people working here so they were eating everything on the menu, literally and they all look amazing.
(4)Steve H.
Great food! Great atmosphere! Great staff! We will definitely come back the next time we are in Boston!
(5)Laura A.
Very small place, it's best to get a reservation. We were lucky to grab 2 spots at the bar. I like the atmosphere. Friendly, knowledgable waitress. It is expensive, so beware. But food is amazing! Awesome lobstah roll and clam chowdah. Their coleslaw is magical... I swear there was Chinese 5 spice powder in there or something, but she assured me there wasn't anything odd in there. I KNOW there's a secret ingredient in there! Sure wish I could have the recipe. Fries were great, too. Of course, hubs got oysters, they were really good and fresh. I wanted dessert but didn't have room :( Love this place.
(5)Jane A.
The absolute best raw bar experience I've ever had. Also the best clam chowder. The only thing that would have improved the experience would have been if they had a full bar--they only serve beer/ wine.
(5)Marissa L.
I came here to try the lobster roll, which my friend said was her favorite one in Boston. My boyfriend and I arrived around 9 pm on a Saturday night and the wait was less than 30 minutes for the outdoor patio which was a nice surprise. The lobster roll was very plain - no mayo or celery. If you like that kind of thing (which I don't) you should try it. I also thought it was quite small given the high price. I also tried the oysters which were outstanding (though many were sold out by the time we ordered). The ricotta gnocchi appetizer was my favorite since it was light and fluffy, a texture I've never experienced with gnocchi. However, the waiter forgot to bring it to us and we had to ask for it so it didn't come until after the main course, which was annoying. The wine selection was awesome - I had a glass of the No. 9 Park Chardonnay which paired well with seafood. I'll definitely be back for the patio and the wine - just not the lobster roll.
(3)Jon S.
It has been about six months since I moved away from Boston so this review is more retrospective. Now that I live in a landlocked city with mediocre seafood, B&G is probably the Boston restaurant that I long for the most. I very much like the simple preparations of the fish and appropriately letting the quality of the product sing. My first visit to the restaurant, they had run out of a halibut dish that I was dying to try. Instead of me leaving disappointed, the server asked the prep team to prepare a fillet for me. That alone brought me back for return visits. I have only been here for dinner and most of the times, we would have to wait a little bit for our table to be ready. They would send us across the street to their sister restaurant The Butcher Shop where I always enjoyed the wine at the communal table. Boston has many fine seafood restaurants (including others with Oyster in their name), but this one is my favorite and will be the one I will dine at the next time I visit.
(5)Phillip H.
This place was insane. I wasn't even that hungry until I ate my first oyster. This speaks volume about the quality of oyster. I recommend it over Neptune Oyster and Island Creek Oyster as well. The food was great and came quickly. Nothing to complain about. One of the best mushroom dishes I had ever had was at this restaurant, try it to see for yourselves.
(5)Craig Lee B.
I stopped by for lunch on Mon 1/26/2015. What caught my eye and drew me in was the gate to the side-entrance on Waltham St., but I stayed for the excellent Shrimp Cocktail (containing JUMBO shrimp, which I shall no longer call an oxymoron!) and the very, very good Clam Chowder (New England style, natch, and containing plenty of nicely-chewy clam chunks and chopped onion goodness, whose centerpiece is a "very spicy" large bright-orange crouton that the server warned me about, but which wasn't too spicy at all -- just spicy enough). They also have a very impressive wine list (French, German, Italian, Greek), which were all, sadly, far above my pay grade. But as soon as I win the lottery, I know where I'm going to celebrate!
(5)Rachel C.
When you're in Bahston, you gotta get the ohstah's! Okay, I swear, that's the only obnoxious Boston accent reference I'll make. Maybe... Right off the bat the place is adorable! I had to look around the place a couple times to realize just how tiny it is! Good thing we were here for lunch, because I doubt we'd slide right in like we did for dinner. I just loved the blue hues throughout. Definitely love the nautical theme while also being modern and sleek. First order of biznas was ordering some champs and oysters! Why is the sea world so cruel that you only give us such a tiny morsel in that shell? I just want to order them by the bushels. But the only way that's going to happen is with bushels of money, and that's not gonna happen anytime soon... I'm gonna be so sad when tomato season is over, but why not enjoy it while you can, right? And enjoy we did! The Heirloom Tomato Salad was a surprising mix of yellow watermelon, feta and pistachio. The combined flavors made for a unique and incredibly flavorful meal. I mean, the tomatoes themselves were a stellar mix, so you can't really go wrong! My eyes went right toward the Lobster Roll. There was no other option than to try that! I'd actually only had one once before and it was really tasty, if not a small glimpse of what might take place closer to the sea. The lobster was fresh as expected, but another important point is, you can't have the Lobster without a solid roll. And let me tell you, it was solid! I'll usually pick off the extra bread to my sandwich, but no way was I doing that with this buttery fresh bun! I was eating the ENTIRE thing! But it didn't end with the Lobster Roll. The fries, which could possibly end up being a throw away item when paired up against such a stellar main affair, were just as good as the roll. They were crispy and tasted freshly cut. Just the way I like them! If this is only a taste of what Boston has to offer, then I'm sold. Well, that and Ben Affleck. I'll take one of them too!
(4)Nisa E.
The food I had was good, but they need more vegetarian options.
(3)Mona B.
I saw all the great reviews for this place and figured I'd try it out. The staff is AMAZING!!!!! The food not so much.. First of all for $7 cup of chowder I literally got no more than 4 small spoon portion presented in an oversized bowl and it was actually the only delicious dish we ordered. We also had the "Moules Frites" not good at all, I love muscles and I force fed myself, saffron was not a good idea for this dish! - my friend ordered the "Spaghetti Nera Alla Chitarra" again no great flavor, it was actually pretty horrible!! Overall I was extremely disappointed, the food was so dissatisfying that $95 later I'm still hungry!! You should stick to Beehive or Giacomo's for food in the southend area!!!
(1)Adam G.
Went here for lunch after wedding in the city. I'm not a huge fish person even though I'm from Boston (I know). However if you are into fish this is the place. Good service and nice modern atmosphere. The fish and chips was excellent. One of the best I've had. Fries were really good as well. My friend enjoyed her lobster as well. Pricey but really solid place.
(4)Andy E.
Stopped here for a quick dinner and was lucky to find a seat. Great oyster bar.. I had the monk fish and sausage and it was great. The chef was good enough to tailor this dish to my Paleo needs and it was excellent.
(4)Kristin H.
Holy mackerel, this place is good! We were in Boston for a work trip and a friend recommended this place to us. I'm glad we took her up on her recommendation. The food, service and atmosphere here are fantastic. It's an intimate setting, perfect for a date or a close group of friends. Our server was an oystaaaa expert and recommended some oysters that blew our tastebuds out of the water. I got the impression the entire staff were oystaaa experts so you should be fine no matter who you get. If you have any food allergies, you've come to the right place. My friend is allergic to gluten, dairy, and black pepper. The server and chef went out of there way to create a special menu to accommodate her. The dish she chose was a masterpiece that left me drooling over her shoulder after I took a bite. Make sure to make a reservation because this place fills up fast, especially on the weekends.
(5)Alfred D.
Had the Lobster BLT roll. Delicious? Yes. $28 Delicious? No. No. No. Just barely better than the lobster roll you can get at Quincy Market, except that one is much cheaper. It wasn't even the BLT that made it better, but the larger chunks of lobster in it. To top it off, the fries sucked..dripping oil and see-through. Yuck. Friend ordered a fish plate for about $30, and out came this 3-inch square of a "filet", and filler all around it which is supposed to constitute as a "meal". Seriously? Would you like to know how many whole fishes I can score in Chinatown compared to what you gave me? You get more action off a Filet-o-Fish at McDonald's....and you can get fries and a drink and not come close to $30. Ugh, no thanks. This is clearly a proverbial toilet for rich people to flush their money into. The rest of us can go eat a real meal or two for the same price.
(1)Darcy P.
I've rated this place before and gave it a 5, i believe, because usually I LOVE it. like love it love it. but went recently and it just wasn't up to par. it was entirely related to service though. Just got oysters and wine and, of course, those were amazing. but from moment we walked in, host was borderline rude. kind of robotic with no smile and just sort of bossy: FOLLOW ME. WATCH YOUR STEP. "Can we sit on that side of the bar?" (lots of seats open) THAT'S WHERE I WAS GOING. umm...ok dude. pretty sure you weren't but even so, don't yell at me about it (ok, he didn't yell but he did almost reprimand). then bartender asked for order. normal. asked for description of some of the oysters and she said, not nicely, have you ever had oysters before? Yep. "well what do you want to know?" I mean, seriously? paying over $3 per bivalve, they have no descriptions and yes, i know west coast are creamy and less briney but come on. i go to b an g instead of neptune bc of the service. she wasn't mean...just not nice and not helpful. we're spending a lot of dollars in a short amount of time so come on. anyway, my fav bartender Tara no longer works there (staying at home with her son) and my fav manager went west so hopefully this isn't a sign of the way things are at b and g now. i'll give it another go and hope this was an aberration bc I used to love this place but...
(3)Sadie H.
Best fried clams in Boston. Great service and terrific oysters. If I could eat here every night then I would -- I assume that would be heaven.
(5)Dennis K.
I am a huge oyster lover and have hunted down dozens of various restaurants in the area. I just think B&G is to expensive plain and simple. The most I have paid for them anywhere . Everything is overpriced there! If you love Oysters you know you can get great deals for as little as a dollar each, i.e. Coda. I will not divulge my secret joints around town.... Happy Hunting..
(3)M J.
I'm taking off two stars because it's crazy expensive AND though high prices don't throw me off IF everything is perfect, they don't hit the perfect mark here. there needs to be perceived value at these prices. here's why i was not feeling that value,in no order: 1. the serving size for the $27 lobster roll should be consistent. on my last visit, it was borderline puny AND smaller than on several other visits. certainly not the sized you see in photo's on here. 2. $12 for a glass of wine -- at lunch? you might want to consider expanding the list to include some lower priced items. also, tripling the cost is NOT ok unless you're in the fine dining category. 3. bar seats - i love bar seating, but knew immediately that my hair and clothes were going to reek after lunch. the exhaust system ought to be cleaned. 4. service - it was just ok. water not refilled and i was looking for our server several times, though they were only 60% full and fully staffed. 5. overall, the food has been fantastic, but on my last visit, it was not perfect, and something left a funny taste in my mouth. i was left with the feeling that something, slaw, salad dressing, was less than perfectly fresh. yuck. the BL empire has grown and i'm wondering if things are slipping.
(2)Jeff F.
It's impossible to rate B&G without comparing it to Neptune. Here's how I'll break it down: - Lobster Roll: 2 star at B&G. Shocked people are raving about this. Neptune blows it away (small, barely toasted bun - for the same price as Neptune's Lobster roll.) - Fried Clams - B&G takes the edge with 5 star to Neptune 4 star - Scottish Salmon - awesome, recommended - Roasted Lobster was good, but at $38, I think it was a little overpriced given what was served - Oysters - 5 star quality and presentation like Neptune, but Neptune has a wider selection - B&G corn on the cob as a side - solid Neptune is 5 star, while B&G is 4 star, but you have to consider that B&G both takes reservations and has outdoor seating.
(4)Jiyea C.
Solid! We went for lunch to try some oysters, and since none of us were oyster experts, we just asked the server to give us a sampler of his choosing. All of them were delicious, but I like the creamier tasting ones. Such a vague explanation, I know, sorry! Also tried the halibut and it was seared to perfection! Crispy on the outside, perfectly cooked on the inside. The presentation was also beautiful! A little salty though. Also at our table was the tuna tartare sandwich and the lobster BLT. I think that while all the dishes were good, they seem slightly overpriced for what they are. One thing about my experience though, I thought the AC was cranked up too high considering it wasn't a particularly warm day. Note: I would suggest that tall people sit outside if it's a nice day; the ceilings are kind of low and you might feel claustrophobic, haha. Service seemed slow considering the restaurant was pretty quiet...that was slightly unexpected. If I return (South End is kind of out of the way, and I prefer Butcher Shop across the street anyway), I'll probably just come for oysters and bubbly.
(4)Chelsea C.
I came here a few weeks ago for a friend's birthday dinner. I don't eat seafood, so when looking at the menu online I was a little worried about finding something I could eat. I made a reservation for our group and when we arrived we were seated at a great little corner table with a clear view of the oyster bar/kitchen area so we could see all the action in the kitchen. I love kitchens that do this, it's almost like getting a show with dinner. Everyone I was with enjoyed their seafood dishes that they got, my friend said the oysters she got were the best oysters she's ever had. And the birthday girl got a lobster roll that she absolutely loved. I ended up getting an order of french fries and baby brussel sprouts, the fries were delicious and the brussel sprouts had an unexpected but welcome kick to them. I loved my dishes, and would definitely return even though I don't eat seafood! The service was impeccable, the second my water glass looked a little empty, someone would be there magically to refill it. The restaurant itself is on the small side, but very intimate and I think it would make a great place for a date or drinks and dinner with friends. As far as I could tell every seat in the house had a view of the kitchen area, although I would definitely like to sit at the bar so I could have a closer look. Great restaurant, great food, great atmosphere, what more could you ask for??
(4)Colleen H.
Certain things I have to be in the mood for, sure. Oysters at B&G? I will date you anytime. Just call me. This place has THE BEST sunken patio in Boston. It's so charming and romantic. Inside the decor is a bit...hard, but it all just evaporates around you as you slurp down those heavenly oysters. I honestly can say that I have tried oysters just about everywhere they are served in this city, and B&G by far has had the most knowledgeable staff and variety I have found. They'll help you contrast your selection, or recommend vessels based on your preferences (you know...east coast/west coast...meaty, delicate, all that good stuff) Also, because this is part of the lovely Barbara Lynch endeavors, the wine list is spectacular. And yes, of course they have options other than oysters. And yes, of course they're delicious. Barbara Lynch will never fail you. I promise.
(5)Duke C.
YUM! YUM! YUM! Great selection of bi-valves on the half shell. The smell of the calamari frying alone is enough to make you hungry. As others have commented, the lobster roll is delish although they give you an excessive amount of fries. While I like to get my money's worth, I also hate to see food waste which is why I deducted one star. Overall, definitely on my hit parade for Boston.
(4)Michael D.
Definitely worth the price tag on the restaurant week lunch.( yelp.com/biz_photos/mxjV… ). Here's what I got: Steamed Mussels ( yelp.com/biz_photos/mxjV… ): Subtly salty, light wine broth.. went very well with the mussels. BLT with fried oysters, served with a HUGE side of fries, sweet pickles, and coleslaw ( yelp.com/biz_photos/mxjV… ): Not the best BLT ever, but my first with fried oysters in em. And anything with fried oysters is better. Just like bacon. I don't think I saw this option on their menu, but I feel like if ya ask em nicely, they'll make it for you anytime! For dessert, we got the chocolate pie, but I unfortunately had to head back to class (service was a little slow), so I wasn't able to try it. Overall, I'd come here for restaurant week, but the prices are a tad bit too high for me to come any other time..
(4)Shuchi K.
Been here for dinner and lunch and it's an equally great option in the South End. I just came back from a date there. We ordered everything to share, which I highly recommend. It was just $35 each for a tasting of three oysters each (2 from Massachusetts and one from the West Coast, I must say that the latter was the best one due to its sweetness!). We also ordered the tuna tartare, which I don't love. The tuna is of utmost quality but they add fruit to it, which makes it a weird surprise. The lobster roll is very good. BOTTOM LINE: the fish is sublime but the preparation could be even better.
(4)Stefano Z.
Sat at the bar because we had no reservation, so not really able to comment on service. The lobster bisque was great, but the fried clams were just normal. In general a reasonably good place to go to, I would go back, but I'm not enthusiastic.
(3)Laura M.
Very cool space--I love that you can see every inch of the kitchen! It's perfect for an intimate dinner for two. We (of course) started with oysters, paired with some sparkling white wine. They were fresh and delicious (and very clean--no grainy bits to bite down on in horror). I got the Jonah crab fra diavolo which was absolutely out of this world. The pasta was so tender it could only be made in house and the sauce with crab was bright and delicious. My fiance got the black bass which was another delicious choice. I would absolutely go back here again.
(5)Dennis C.
Got a whole bunch different oysters, raw and fried, and they were all quite delicious with their own uniqueness. Also tried the lobster roll, which was good but still weird to have lobster as a sandwich.
(3)Christine B.
I so wanted to love B&G. I've lived in the South End for years and stopped by recently on an impromptu visit. My boyfriend and I were seated on the patio, which was lovely despite the threatening storm clouds--if only the food had been as excellent. The chowder was great, despite the fact that the serving barely fit in the palm of my hand (for $14). He ordered the oysters, which had shell bits in them, and the lobster BLT that he was "meh" about; I got the B&G "hot dog," which was sub-par to a Fenway Frank (or Johnsonville brat). Even though I don't get the hype of B&G and it was expensive for the quality, I'd be game to give it another try. There must be some redeeming factor, other than it being an eight minute walk from home. Right?
(2)James A.
We're in a generous mood. Fried clams (as appetizer) overcooked and greasy. Lobster roll tasteless. Wine selection (by glass) limited. Cole slaw (or whatever it was) terrible. We would wait 3 hours for table at Neptune Oyster Bar before we would come back here. My wife and I have eaten at three other places in the South End the last two weeks (Hamersley, Beehive, Metropolis) and this was, by far, the worst. The service was very good.
(2)Jennifer S.
I had always wanted to check out this place but never got around to it... until recently, YUM!!! The restaurant is really small, cozy and dark but i liked the atmosphere. I could see the bar from where I was sitting & it was fun to watch all the food come out! (I kept staring to see if it would come to our table). On to the food... - the clam chowder is a must! It's not as creamy (which I didn't mind) and its a bit spicy bc of the spicy croutons! YUM! (5) - BF ordered the BLT with Lobster based on yelp reviews. It was good but at the end of the day, it was just a sandwich with fresh ingredients... so definitely high quality lobster but i don't think it blew us out of the park (4) - waitress recommended the halibut, so I ordered the halibut but then the swordfish came out... to be honest, i don't know my fish to well so i just ate it anyways! it was YUM so no complaints there!!! Until bf realized that the sides were wrong. we had to flag down a busboy to ask what i was eating and found out the wrong dish was sent to us. we didn't want to make a scene out of it (& it can happen), so we said it was not a problem. however, i thought the server would at least say sorry but she didn't. when we mentioned, her response was "oh." that's it. she didn't really check on us either. oh well.. the swordfish dish was still delicious so that was a 5! but service was a 3.5 overall, i would've rated this place a 5 but with the mixup and all, 4 it is. (for now)
(4)Laura A.
Great oysters, lively scene, but the rest of the meal/experience was not really memorable. Come to B&G for the oysters and maybe a cocktail, but otherwise it's not worth the price. You can have a far superior dining experience elsewhere in the South End.
(3)Dan L.
Went to B&G with great anticipation, excited to try the oysters and see what unique offerings were available. We had been dying to try a Barbara Lynch establishment and had received a number of positive reviews. We sat at the bar in close proximity to the kitchen. Staff was incredibly knowledgable and attentive with extensive knowledge of the wine list, very refreshing! The biggest issue we had was the staff (cooks) decided to eat a number of oysters behind the bar while we were ordering our meal. I realize the kitchen is small but there is something un-professional about the kitchen staff eating oysters in front of the customers. Needless to say, we refrained from oysters that evening.
(2)Debora L.
Came here on a busy Saturday night when the two hour wait at Neptune deterred us. Trendy seafood restaurant with romantic lighting inside, and lovely heated wooden patio outside decorated with twinkle lights. We felt the clam chowder was a pass : it had a strange vinegar aftertaste. The lobster roll was decent but nothing remarkable. What we loved most, though, was the massive amount of fries! Perfectly seasoned and lightly fried. Not too salty, crunchy, starchy, cold, soggy, or oily. So many places get fries wrong, but they do it right. So, yes, 4 stars for the fries!
(4)Michael C.
We came for to B&G for restaurant week but ended up going for mostly their regular lunch menu and got some oysters. We got their Salmon Salad Sandwiich, which was good but wasn't all that impressed. After we got an assortment of oysters, but oysters are oysters. Lastly we had the their lobster roll, which was big and tasty, the french fries ended up being the highlight. I've had better lobster rolls at Kell's and Neptune. This is a small establishment. Service was Ok the day we went, the bartender seemed a bit overwhelmed. I would definitely give this place another shot.
(3)Michael F.
I've been to B&G a few times over the years, however my last visit really made me realize winter, is Not the time to go... Every winter season there sidewalks are not kept. This last Tuesday was a winter storm, afterwords we went out, and the entire neighborhood was cleaned up, sidewalks front stoops and all... But when it came to the corner of Tremont and Waltham St. Where the restaurant is... Completely unkept! No salt or sand... Not even a thought of shoveling.
(4)Kailene K.
I came here for lunch on a Sunday. I was first sad when I couldn't order a mimosa - they can serve champagne but not mimosas... Anywho my friend and I ordered the crab cake sandwich and the lobster roll. The lobster roll was so tiny, I couldn't believe it. And it didn't even taste good, if you're going to give me a couple bites for $30 it better be damn good. The crab cake sandwich was also terrible, you could not taste the crab, just the peppers and condiments that were plentiful on it. Needless to say for the price of this I will not be returning.
(2)Amy M.
We had a lovely date night Friday night! The food was exquisite, and our server (who drives all the way from Providence to work there!) was accommodating and helpful--knowledgable and kind. Highlights: -the oysters. Duh. -the fried oysters. Each bite was perfect--a little tang from the tartar sauce,not too much of the fried coating, and a big, plump, juicy oyster that you could really taste and savor. -the squid ink pasta. We eat a decent amount of dishes prepared with squid ink, so the taste is familiar to us. Those dishes are often quite heavy in their earthiness; what set this apart was the pairing with lemon zest and fresh herbs which made the dish really bright and lighter somehow. I'm craving it right now. Yum. The only drawback that I can think of is the ambiance. I like how the casual vibe is maintained with the diner-like tables and low-key atmosphere. I even like the whole open kitchen thing, but it also meant that I had bright, industrial lights in my face during our dinner. Overall, the high end food and the quality, considerate service in this small, casual place is well worth the price tag.
(4)Jacqueline L.
weekday lunching while visit some friends in Boston. the weather was lovely so we sat outside on the back patio. ordered a few bites, bottle of rosé as well as the lobster roll. this Maine girl couldn't resist! everything was perfect; food, service, location. the only down side was parking. just street meters as well as residential, but you have to have a permit.
(5)Noah K.
Fantastic meal! Made a reservation on Opentable, but ended up at the bar as the place was still pretty full at 9:45 PM on a Saturday. Open kitchen was fun to watch and food exceeded expectations. Oyster prices were a bit high, but the rest of the meal was in line with expectation for the type of place. We had fancy sweet, cotuit, and well fleet oysters, halibut tartare with chorizo, blue cod, whole fried (and salty) Bronzino and two cold blue point summer ales. Food - 5 Service - 5 Prices - 4 Reservations - 3 (only late times, table wasn't ready, but not their fault, small restaurant)
(5)Barbara E.
Yelping from Logan Airport led us to this Boston gem. Great food. Perfecr ambiance. Friendly and helpful staff. We are definitely going back on another trip to Boston
(5)Kira K.
I had such high hopes for B&G, but was ultimately disappointed. Our party of two asked the server which oysters were the sweetest, and she directed us to the two most expensive oysters on the menu. They ended up being pretty briny, and were probably some of the worst oysters I've ever eaten. I opted for the lobster roll, because, when in Boston...but what a mistake! It was $29 for a plain ol' nothin'-to-write-home-about lobster roll. We also got an order of the calamari, fries, and two beers, and the total for lunch was $112. I'm positive there are other establishments that are far more worth your money. I would not recommend this place unless you're looking to burn a hole in your wallet.
(2)Ryan G.
This is honestly one of my favorite places in Boston. I truly believe it does not get much better than this. As seen by the hundreds of other reviews, this place is legit. In order to eat here, I usually make a reservation two weeks in advance, just as a heads up. Location: great. Perfectly acquainted in the south end, near many other restaurants and bars. Quaint little area with lots of brownstones with a classic feel of Boston. The food is just indescribable. It is so fresh and tasty, basically the only two things you need when getting seafood. I do highly recommend the fried oysters (for people like me who don't like real oysters) and the cliché lobster roll, which I believe is new here but the lobster roll is a BLT lobster roll :O. Overall, the reviews usually never lie, especially with the 600 reviews already written. I'm merely writing this review so I can put it on my yelp lists. If you haven't tried this place...YOU MUST GO. If you have, YOU MUST GO BACK!
(5)Ken B.
Excellent oyster bar and restaurant! They have oysters from at least 12 different locales in New England. Pick and choose as you like. We had an array of appetizers, the monkfish, the blue cod and the swordfish. All were cooked to perfection and served with amazing sides (ie deconstructed ratatouille, pickled fennel, green goddess, etc). Great atmosphere, great food and great service! Ask for Juan. Thanks Juan!!!
(5)Anthony S.
Visited here with my girlfriend while in Boston for work. I had been here previously and the lobster roll was $24. Knowing this we each order a lobster roll and when we get our bill we are shocked to find that they cost over $44 a piece!!! They were delicious but never in my life had I had to pay that much for a lobster roll. The waitress blamed it on the current market price but we went to Yankee lobster and island creek for around $22 per lobster roll the same weekend. I am very disappointed in the waitress trying to take advantage of those clearly from out of town. I will not be back and will spend my money elsewhere in the future.
(1)Mary C.
Oysters on the half shell were great. Our server was great too and his suggestions for which oysters to order were appreciated. The fried clams were small and too salty. The fried calamari had no tentacles. I loved the atmosphere and would return for the oysters.
(3)Katie G.
Great lobster roll but weird setting. The waiters were all hiding in the corner stuffing their face with food which was weird. And the people at the bar weren't that friendly. Good food but not a 5 star.
(4)Too Much S.
Rather good service, awesome oysters, and very good lobster roll. Why only 4 stars? I felt rather rushed. Definitely worth a visit though.
(4)Nina Y.
Last meal in Boston before heading home. I decided to look up the best place for clam chowder and many people and magazines had suggested B&G Oysters. I decided that it would be my last meal as a great meal. First off, the place is great. Really a nice fancy restaurant, but since I went for a lunch on a rainy day, there were almost no one there. I definitely ordered the clam chowder and some of the shrimp fritters. The clam chowder was memorable and really good. I think my only fault with it was the paprika oyster crackers. I think it was too spicy for the dish. Other than that, was a good bowl of clam chowder. The shrimp fritters were good, but not AMAZING. Fried balls are great, but it wasn't amazing. Overall, great clam chowder and a great last meal in Boston.
(4)Lucy E.
Great seafood, amazing out door seating. This is the perfect place to go on a nice evening in the summer and early fall. The out door seating is fabulous and really makes for an oasis in Boston. I have yet to have a bad dish here, but no matter what you get, start with the oysters!
(4)Will S.
The entrance was actually not the one below the sign on the big street. It was somewhat hidden in the side street and you have to go down few steps of stairs. Sat at the bar table. When you step in, you can see the shelled oyster sitting on the ice. Very casual environment. The waiter we dealt with was nice, and gave us plenty of time to settle in and decide. Oyster was good. Food ok. On the pricey end. Liked their location with lots of shops and nearby mall in the neighborhood.
(3)Joey C.
We had a trip to Boston for a show and i had to try its famous lobster roll. Yelped it and found B & G oysters. It was pretty packed when i call but luckily they still have space for the 4 of us. We stayed at the bar and you can see all the cooking made infront of you. We started with the local oysters and then we tried the monk fish, squid ink pasta, and ofcourse the Lobster Roll. I will definitely go back... Yummy
(5)Ashley S.
Wonderful! Amazing lobster rolls and fries. Hillary is a fabulous waitress, she's friendly & knowledgable.
(5)Helen K.
Had dinner recently with the family at B & G Oyster. Oh how I wish we lived in Boston. A good friend and a Bostonian also agreed with our choice when discussing our plans. Started with the croquettes which were crispy outside soft and flavorful inside. Had the entire list (12!) of oysters available that day. I've decided I prefer the oysters from PEI (Prince Edward Island). My son had the seared Ahi topped with fingerling potato chips which I thought were really cute. Hubby had halibut. The fish was cooked perfectly and seasoned well. He didn't care for the sweet broth the fish was sitting atop of however. As another reviewer mentioned, this is a seafood restaurant. No meat dishes for those with a seafood aversion.,I was totally happy with the choice. Will have to look at the menu choices more carefully next time to insure family happiness.
(5)Wilma O.
My girl friends and I came here last night for a much needed catch-up session, and Restaurant Week!! We had all been curious about this place and needed to try it. Overall, we were mostly impressed! I had not yet had a positive Restaurant Week experience in Boston - usually places skimped on their dishes or used sub-par ingredients, but here I really felt that B&G was trying to showcase their talent. - Crab cake appetizer - Delicious (and this is coming from a Marylander - the home of crab cakes)! The sauce complemented it well. The crab meat fibers were very fine and delicate, and you could tell it wasn't mixed with a lot of filler. I would have liked a slightly stronger tasting crab though. - Salmon tartare appetizer - my friend got this, and seemed to really enjoy it! It looked good. - Scallops entree - I was thoroughly impressed. Usually restaurants skimp on the size of their scallop dishes, but this one was incredibly satisfying. The green sauce didn't overwhelm but nicely complemented the fresh scallops, and it all cutely looked almost like a video game stage (in the words of my friend). - Clam stew - One of my friends got this, and she was very happy with it. It's not very soupy -- it has more of a focus on the clams, and has huge slabs of pork belly on it! - Pasta dish (orenchietti or something like that) - My other friend got this and didn't enjoy it much -- she said it was heavy yet bland. I tried some of her sauce though and thought it had a really nice, intriguing flavor (almost like pillow mints?). I think I would have liked this dish. - Coconut cream pie - Delicious!! Not too overwhelming, and it's a cute tart with a edible crust that tastes almost like gingerbread - Vanilla cake - While none of us had this, it looked big and delicious -- we were staring at our neighbors' all meal! Overall, I was very impressed! Boston has many expensive, modern American, gourmet restaurants and it's hard to set yourself apart from the pack. B&G impressed me with their restaurant week menu and I can wait to try actual oysters here next time!
(5)Loc V.
Walked in without a Rez based on a local colleagues recommendation. Bar seat for 1 so thankfully I was able to sit at 8:30pm (get a reservation). The hype here was worthy. Massachusetts oysters were amazing (5 different varieties). Clam Chowder was outstanding, fresh and the soup was not thick like most boston chowders (no corn starch here). Service, vibe and space just worked really well. Definitely recommend especially if you had one night for great boston seafood. Look forward to coming back to try the lobster roll, fried Ipswich clams and bouillabaisse. So much more to try - great menu. I will be a new out-of-town regular.
(5)Eva Y.
Great oysters, fried clams, and lobster rolls.... Mediocre fish entrees...... BUTTTTT, hands down the BEST CLAM CHOWDER in town!
(4)Tuli S.
I came here during the summer of 2012. The outdoor seating was great. As soon as my friend and I arrived, we were seated and taken care of. We came to try the fried clams (I heard good things). They were delightful. I recieved a plateful of large fried clams, along with fries and coleslaw. The fries were great as well, the coleslaw I could do without. My friend ordered the calamari. The spicy sauce it came with was really tasty. We stayed here for a while and had a few drinks. I didn't feel rushed to leave or obligated to order more drinks/apps. Overall it was a great experience. Definitely on the expensive side, but worth it for the seafood. I will be coming here again!
(4)Scott S.
My son (14) and I had dinner here in mid-July. I did my Yelp homework and made a reservation before leaving California. During our brief stay in Boston, I was there for a conference, I wanted to hit some of the better seafood places. We were sating at the Pru at the Sheraton and walked over. It was nice to get to a neighborhood away from the chains. B&G is in the semi-basement of what appears to be a residential building. It's slightly below street level and finding the entrance (it's in back) was a challenge for us first timers. We were greeted, and seated, immediately in the corner booth to the right. We had a good view of the small and busy kitchen. It was fun to watch the constant shucking of shellfish. The ceiling is low so it feels intimate and cozy albeit loud. I'm from the San Francisco bay area and we pride ourselves on our seafood and especially our west coast oysters. They and an oysters of the day list so I asked the server, Lexi, to recommend a few that were more of the mineral type and not the creamy type. She suggested the Mayflower point and Thatch Island both from Mass. i got two of each as they were $3.15 each. They were both very good. For main courses, again I wanted to stay local, so we had the black bass and the halibut. Both dishes were artfully presented with thoughtful touches of vegetables and sauce. My halibut had a beautiful crust and came with eggplant, zucchini, corn and roasted red onion with a smear of rustic tomato sauce (see my photo). There were little anchovies (which I like) on the eggplant which I found to be a little strong for such a delicate dish. Everybody really seems to be enjoying themselves and B&G and you can see why. I'd like to have one in my neighborhood.
(4)Michelle T.
Hit up B&G for a $20 restaurant week lunch and was thoroughly impressed with my meal, as well as the excellent service. I left feeling my meal was no only worth it, but the restaurant was somewhere I'd return again outside of restaurant week. I started off with the mussel appetizer, which was actually a huge bowl of juicy, fresh, sweet, plump mussels bathed in a buttery but light sauce. Served with a side of crusty grilled bread, perfect for dipping in sauce. I went for the grilled scallops for my entrée and absolutely loved it. The scallops themselves were so sweet and plump, grilled to perfection so there was a slight char on the outside, but tender on the inside. The grilled zucchini's beneath them were well-seasoned, though a tad on the greasy side. Finally, the peach pana cotta. Though I can't say I am a big fan of pana cotta as a dessert by itself, the one at B&G was actually quite good. It was topped with fresh sweet peaches and a buttery crumble. We left feeling full, satisfied, and happy with our meals.
(4)Char Y.
we came with a reservation and were seated immediately. we ordered lobster roll - so small! soft shell crab sandwich the food was just ok. the seafood is fresh, but the portions tiny for what you pay for. this is what i expect in chicago, not boston.
(2)Jeff P.
It's a relatively small place. Sat at the bar area and got the fried clams. SO good. They also have a nice selection of oysters which were good. Seeing how all the food is prepared is pretty neat too. Lobster rolls looked pretty good as well. Definitely will go again.
(4)Shir L.
Came here with my besties for B&G Oysters "Big Shellabration" on February 24th. We wanted to do family style (ordered a bunch of dishes and shared). -Maine lobster roll It was nothing out of the ordinary. It tasted like the usual cold mayo mixed with lobster bits. The coleslaw was surprisingly light yet flavorful. The french fries were nicely served with herbs on top but it was soggy. -Singapore Chilli Crab (best dish that night) The flavors were nice and bold, but unfortunately it was a little too much towards the end since the portion size was rather large. The strong and bold sweet tomato chili sauce, gets to be too much. The coconut rice cake was nice, but lacked coconut flavor; the texture and taste reminded me of deep fried mochi (if there is such a thing). The bok choy that accompanied the dish had a strong fish sauce flavor, I'm not sure if it's suitable for everyone. -Fried brussel sprouts It tasted like baked brussel sprouts (which I'm used to having) but it was too salty towards the bottom. -Butter-poached lobster tail The tail itself was delicious but the sides that were served with the dish was bland. The oxtail ragù was salty, which made up for the lack of flavor on the polenta cakes. The cauliflower purée and the 3 bite sized carrots were flavorless. For pictures: khaoslife.blogspot.com/2… Overall, i would recommend the singapore chilli crab but unfortunately it was a limited special. Service was great, and I will probably came back to try other dishes.
(3)Wes D.
Positives: - Looong list of fresh oysters which were outstanding - Entrees were also out of this world. See pic attached picture of entire fried fish (forget the exact species). It was amazing. - Clam chowder (cliched as it may be) is fantastic Negatives: - Only serve beer/wine, no liquor license? Unfortunate. - Very cramped and small inside. Arrived a few minutes early and had to wait outside under an awning with rain blowing in sideways. Still, a definite dining destination that shouldn't be missed for fresh seafood fans.
(4)Terry K.
What's to be said about this place has been covered by the other 5-star reviewers many times over so I'll keep my review short! This is a sleek, modern take on the classic oyster house. I tend to like Barbara Lynch restaurants. And I love open kitchens...it makes you appreciate the food more when you see them operate it like a tightly run ship. Although my other favorite oyster bar in Boston is Neptune Oysters...I like both B&G and Neptune for different reasons. Their clam chowda is ridiculous & a must-try. Lobster roll is divine. There isn't a thing I didn't like on their menu. The restaurant is tiny but intimate, welcoming and a fun place to hang out.
(5)Benjamin H.
Very overrated, over priced, over hyped. There are so many better food options in the South End.
(1)Nicole W.
I had a perfect dining experience at B&G oyster. It was everything I hoped it would be and more! We had the tuna tartare and oysters to start, followed by the clam chowder (amazing, plenty of clams, not heavy like some chowders), the Black Sea bass (crispy and perfect!), and lobster roll (piled high with extremely fresh lobster chunks, not too much mayo, very crispy bun, yummy fries) . The atmosphere was fantastic- we dined in the courtyard under the cute stringed lights. Service was great, food was great, but then what do you expect from a Barbara Lynch restaurant? This place gets a spot on my Boston's Best List.
(5)Patti W.
After months of hearing about B&G Oysters, I finally had the opportunity to try it. I had a friend visiting from the Midwest, and wanted to make sure he was able to try some good New England seafood before he returned home. I'm a huge fan of Neptune Oysters in the North End where I live, but since they don't take reservations, I thought this was a great time to try B&G's. I was definitely not disappointed! We started with a plate of several types of raw oysters. All were amazingly fresh and delicious. We both got Maine lobster rolls as our entrees. So good! The one thing that really set this restaurant apart for me (besides the amazing food) was the service. Our server was extremely nice, knowledgeable and on top of things. I also loved the outdoor patio in the back of the restaurant. Perfect for a beautiful summer night! I can't wait to return to B&G's!
(5)Melinda N.
I came here on a Sunday night. We were late because we were looking for parking. I called and the host was very gracious and still took us. I wish they had $1 oysters but we got a dozen and paid between 2.50-3.40 each. They were delicious and it was interesting to debate with my partner the slight differences in the types of oysters. The server was attentive and explained things well. I got calamari and thought it was kind of plain (Legal test kitchen and Chau Chow have more flavorful calamari). I ordered dessert which was the ricotta cheese beignet. I had no idea what that was and the server likened it to something to which I still understand. Finally she said it's like a donut. That i understood and thought it was intriguing enough to try. It's like a hush puppy but perfectly spherical. The inside has a hint of ricotta and the caramel dipping sauce truly made it delicious. The restaurant is small but the decor is nice. Service was superb.
(4)Wendy T.
Quite expensive, but get the lobster roll. Service was ok. Make reservation if you don't want the long wait.
(4)David C.
As much of a mixed bag as Restaurant Week dinners are, Restaurant Week lunches are usually even worse. There aren't many top-shelf restaurants that are going to give you a quality three-course meal for $20.13. B&G Oysters, however, bucks the trend, offering a lovely, hearty meal for just a fraction of the cost of their regular menu. My dining companions and I feasted on fluke crudo, clam chowder, shrimp po' boys, dayboat scallops, milk chocolate budino, and blood orange pound cake, all of which, save for the cake, were excellent (some dishes, most notably the crudo, were surprisingly beautiful as well--see picture). It's a meal like this that makes me want to return to try the menu at full price. Isn't that what Restaurant Week is all about? (I'm going to have to start trademarking that line).
(4)San W.
Went here last night with b. for an impromptu dinner because our planned dinner at Toro totally failed (they were closed due to a private event...I should have known things were going to go horribly wrong after getting totally dissed by the bus driver, who made me run late because he did not bother to stop for me despite my waving frantically at him). Anyways, b. had been wanting to check this place out and luckily, it was close by. We got there around 6ish and were able to grab two seats at the bar without a wait. And the breakdown goes like this: Drinks Don't remember the names but b. ordered the Riesling, which was slightly too sweet and not as crisp as b. would have liked, while I got the Muscat Reserve, which was slightly crisp but not overly dry. Oysters At our server's recommendation, b. ordered a half dozen of the Chathams (MA) and a half dozen of the Pickering Passes (WA). In comparison, we both liked the Chathams, which were fairly large in size, not too creamy, and quite briny, much better than the Pickerings, which were super small (puny!), not creamy at all, and very briny with an odd, fishy aftertaste. Fried Point Judith Calamari (w/ spicy aioli) The calamari itself was fairly large and somewhat chewy. We were not fans of the fried exterior, which was rather bland and oily. The spicy aioli dip though was nice and creamy with a kick. Something Something Swordfish (can't remember the official description and it's not on their website menu but it came w/ handmade gnocchi, sautéed chopped beets(?), and beet jus...yes, that is "zzhoos" - what a fun word to say!) The swordfish had a wonderful pan seared crust that was loaded with flavor from the spice rub. The fish itself was moist and not overcooked, which was refreshing to find since swordfish is so easily overdone. It came with eight pieces of gnocchi, which we found to be a little too soft like they had been boiled for too long. The beet jus added a nice sweetness to the dish overall; b. wished there had been more of it. Plating was simple and elegant. Squid Ink Spaghettia Alla Chitarra (w/ charred octopus, spicy tomato sauce, & black olive) The squid ink noodles were done to the right consistency, not too chewy and not too soft. The best part was the octopus though - definitely some of the best octopus we have had. The pieces were so tender, not at all tough and chewy like we usually anticipate octopus to be. When we asked our server how it was prepared, the chef said that they braised the octopus first before charring it. The sauce was a bit too tomato-ey for me, and somewhat salty towards the end of the dish, but it did have a nice kick to it. All in all, B&G saved our evening from being ruined by Toro's snub, service was prompt and courteous, and we enjoyed our wine and dinner while playing kneesie under the countertop as it was quite cozy at the bar.
(4)Pia F.
Last Saturday (4/25/15) my husband and I decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner in the south end. It was our first night out since having our new baby and we had enjoyed b and g before so we chose it again. We had a terrible experience at the door with a very rude and condescending host. I had lived in the south end for 5 years, so I know we will have to wait on a Saturday night anywhere without reservation, so we were prepared to wait. When asking for a table we had a 3+ hour wait, then we asked about the bar and its first come first serve. We actually prefer the bar so we asked how many people were ahead and we were told 10 and the host said it would be a 4 hour wait. We were a little confused why it would be longer so we hesitated before giving an answer and he actually turns around and says to us "obviously you're not getting this" and repeated the wait times to us again slower. I couldn't believe my ears. If this is how b and g plans on treating their patrons now we will think twice before ever going again or recommending to our friends. We ended up going to the restaurant next door and had a great experience.
(1)Greg P.
Just keeps getting BETTER!! B&G Oysters is and has been in our Boston Top 3 since we first dined here. We celebrate special occasions (Christmas, New Years, birthdays) at B&G because the food, ambiance, and service never disappoint. I even had my pre-wedding brunch at B&G. Located in the South End, B&G offers valet parking. While cozy, you have your servers attention the whole time. The atmosphere is fun and laid back but the food it as good as the top (and much stuffier) South End destinations. My wife and I celebrated an early Christmas dinner last night and continue to be amazed by B&G and Barbara Lynch's creativity. To start, we had shrimp cocktail and a variety of winter oysters (including Gigamoto, Royal Miyagi, Canada Cup). The raw bar is always impeccably prepared. The shrimp are amazing: huge, sweet, and incredibly fresh. For our main courses, we had the blue cod with walnut puree and cous cous arancini and the branzini with fennel and artichoke confit. The blue cod was savory and light while the arancini popped with flavor. The branzini was seasoned with za-tar spices and was fresh and also quite light and delicious. In the past we have loved the lobster roll and lobster BLT (both marquee entrees on the B&G menu). This night, we want to try something different. All I can say is WOW. Dessert took us by surprise! My wife loves carrot cake but I am not a huge fan. However, we decided to split the carrot cake. It arrived baked into a good sized canning jar, topped with buttery creamy frosting and walnut and graham cookie crumbles. It looked amazing and I was already sold just by the aesthetic. However, once I tasted it, it was all over. I had to continuously remind myself to slow down because the spice flavor and moistness were perfect. My wife, a carrot cake expert, said it was the best carrot cake she had ever had. I totally agreed. B&G is a special restaurant. It's a place for seafood lovers who want clean flavors and dishes in which the fruits of the sea are given a chance to shine. You will not find heavy sauces or spices here. The seafood is king. And based on every experience we have ever had at B&G, so is the customer!!
(5)Daniel L.
I love to sit at the bar and watch them shucking oysters and clams. The clams melted in my mouth and there was a large oyster selection, even some from west coast British Columbia (my hood). The Lobster roll was recommended from other reviews and we found it to be over rated and chewy. I would have preferred a crab roll. But that was the only low point. The rest of our experience was truly top notch. Theres a reason this place is so popular with the locals.
(3)Jim R.
Best oyster selection on the planet! Winning wine list to match. Nuff said.
(5)Christopher W.
Woohoo, the lobster roll was ridiculous! It's been over three months since I ate here and I remember everything about the meal! Although I had expected the tempura squash blossom to be much larger...it was quite delicious. I'll attempt to post a picture of it after this post. We also had raw oysters from various parts of the US...quite enjoyable. I am definitely becoming a fan of them! This is when I learned that my cousin's also have expensive taste buds lol. The three of us had a good time here. Plan on spending at least $40 a head if not more. This was a very memorable last meal in Boston.
(4)Amanda R.
If you go for lunch, you have to try the Yellowfin tuna club sandwich. I don't care if you don't like tuna/seafood (because you will after you eat this) and I don't care if you don't eat pork, this sandwich is a must. I, for one, don't eat pork, but when this sandwich arrived with bacon, I accidentally took that first pork filled bite of decadence and did not regret it for a second. I ended up taking the bacon out, but WOW, this sandwich is truly worth every single penny. I also had my very first oyster experience here and I am now spoiled for life.
(5)Bill J.
I've been to b & g a dozen times while in Boston on business. It never ever disappoints. Tonight was no exception. Sublime RI oysters. Unmatched fried oysters and a seared halibut over lobster bisque. I will return again and again.
(5)Jeremy H.
well I have been trying to go here for months, and whenever I try to get in they are booked and have a huge line. So I finally got in the other day. First of all the food lived up to the hype in the flavor department. I went with three other people and here is what we had: Oysters. They were great, and the selection was fantastic. They were perfectly shucked with the muscle severed on both sides of the flesh, and the stomach perfectly intact. The cocktail sauce and mignonette were superb! Chowda. The clam Chowder was one of the best I have had in my life. It was not too thick, but creamy without being watered down! The pieces of clam were plentiful and were not so big that you could chew them for an hour or so small you could drink them through a straw. And then the lardons they used were not chewy and exploding with flavor...this was a fantastic chowder. Wait did I say it yet This was amazing. There was one thing that shocked me...it was $14 for a bowl...a little pricey in my mind. I had skate wing. I love skate wing, and it is hard to find. First of all this dish was fantastic. The skate was perfectly cooked and buttery. The fiddle heads were fantastic. The red potatoes were great, but there was not much food on the plate. But it was definitely worth it. Halibut and scallop risotto dishes were also awesome. Had a bit of each one. Liked them. not as good as the skate dish. The risotto was perfect though. My wife had the Lobster roll. Let me tell you it was very good. The fries were also great. The only problem I had was that this was a $27 lobster roll. Are you freaking kidding me!!! The price gouging on this dish made us question the rest of the meal. This is why I am leery to go back....I do not like overpaying. Also The waitress. She seemed to have no interest in her job. She rattled off the specials in an uber-apathetic monotone. All of her answer about ingredients were answered at a blistering pace in a monotone like she was reading them, but any suggestions we asked her came with interest and enthusiasm. This was another turn-off. Overall this was a very nice dinner. The price was a little over-the top and the waitress was devoid of personality. But the interior was very nice, and you could see all the cooks working (which was great). It is definitely worth checking out once...but that is really all it is worth.
(3)Steve S.
Whatever happened to the endless fried clam dinners for 6.99 at the ole Hojos(Howard Johnsons)...Copies amounts of fries and fried somethings for one low price. Well, B&G is a different experience to say the least. First it really is a gorgeous interior with an open kitchen and bar set up with about 30 tables. There is a cool outside patio as well Menu is naturally based around seafood, oysters and clams. Had the fava bean and grilled asparagus salad with Greek yogurt dressing...Great dish as there was many different flavors and textures in every bite. For the main, I had...you guessed it: the fried clam dinner. Haven't had fried clams in years, but they were delicious. Hojos was about strips or dried out pieces of clam like substance(what do you want for 6.99). B&G is about the bellies aka a real clam. Great place for seafood
(4)Megan D.
Literally got off the plane, dropped my bags off and went straight to B&G Oysters for lunch with my boyfriend. This place was recommended to us by a few friends, as we were in town for the weekend and looking for some local cuisine. Unfortunately, B&G didn't live up to the hype. The food was fine, the service was so so, but the AC was lovely (it was 93 and humid). We started off with a appetizer special--corn beignets served with a mustard aoli, which were delicious. I then ordered the asparagus salad for lunch. It was TINY (perhaps a handful of lettuce at best) and had way too much dressing. My bf had the lobster roll, which he thought was good, but not $27 good. Our service was fine, but not what you'd expect when eating an $80+ lunch. Overall experience could have definitely been better, prices could have been lower, but the AC was spot on!
(3)Santi C.
Judged solely on the food quality, this is a four star restaurant. However, for the price we paid, we expected to have good service as well. The service is soooo slow, and the face of our server is so sour. Sorry, thanks to that I can only give you a three star rating.
(3)Ulli K.
Definitely a place you want to get a reservation on Friday or Saturday night. Had a lovely time here. Loved that it's not huge, loved that it has nice ambience. The food was delicious....we had a special: Baked lobster with, you know, a CUP FULL of melted butter served seperately. Nom nom. There was just nothing to complain about, including the delicous Pecan Pie and Rum Cake desserts. Appetizer was the Shrimp Cocktail which you order by count (so 6 or 8 shrimp or such). we loved it. nice touch: We were asked if we needed a cab or anything else when we left. I thought that was lovely. Also nice: The Butcher Shop is right across the street for a last drink.
(4)Rob F.
What can I say this place is my favorite in Boston. Aside from the wait to get in you just can't get any better. Fresh oysters, Lobster BLT is amazing and the fried clams OMG ! It's great to sit at the bar, have a great glass of wine and watch the chefs prepare your food. Simply amazing, highly recommended.
(5)Aaron W.
Having never eaten raw oysters, I was a tad concerned about eating at a place with the very word in its name. Our rez was very early by choice and unsuprisingly we were the first party in the place. We absolutely bombarded the very friendly and knowledgeable waitress with probably dumb questions. While my new wife decided she didn't care for oysters (not the restaraunt's fault), I devirginized myself and then turned into a complete oyster slut. I carefully ordered a single oyster which proved to be DELICIOUS, which quickly was followed by six more. I left the oyster choice completely up to our waitress who smoothly and slowly graduated me from a noob to an intermediate oyster eater over the course of the apps. Also with minimal input, she managed to suggest a great wine (we ended up ordering the same bottle twice). All in all a great experience, don't believe any review that tells you otherwise. The clientele is not hipster either as Zagat will tell you, it was well dressed and apparently wealthy people. The place is a tad pricey but well worth it.
(4)Caesar R.
Went here for lunch today, Christmas Eve while in Boston. Got here first before the rush. The place is on the smaller side, but uses space very effectively. The bar where we sat gives a direct view into the kitchen and the oyster shucking/fryer end as well. We did have a reservation, but went early anyway. Good thing we did, the place filled up quickly. We sampled a bunch of oysters from the east coast and one type from the west coast. We asked the guy shucking them which were best and went with his recommendation. We were not disappointed at all. The mignonette and cocktail sauce were the traditional compliments to the bivalve platter. Additionally, we had the lobster roll and the lobster cassoulet. Both were outstanding. The lobster cassoulet was served a little differently than expected not being in a cauldron/casserole type of dish was a refreshing change of pace for this usually gut busting heavy dish. The lobster roll, could be showing a strong rivalry against my favorite lobster roll*. (That being said, this is only for a cold lobster salad type of lobster roll and a non-Maine lobster roll as well) The fries and the house made bread and butter pickles that came on the plate managed to be gone without merely a trace of a crumb. The service was extremely friendly and offered good suggestions for food and drink. Look forward to a return trip to B&G next time I am in Boston.
(4)Gablesgirl M.
The food was simply delicious. My husband said it was the best lunch he has had, ever. We ordered the clams, lobster roll, lobster blt and the fish & chips. Absolutely perfect! The service was extremely friendly and offered good suggestions for food. Looking forward to a return trip to B&G next time I am in Boston.
(5)Lawrence S.
The food is a 5, and everybody at the restaurant was really great to us, except our server. She wasn't very friendly. And we sat outside which attracted quite a few flies. Not sure if there is a way for them to prevent that or not. But the food was amazing and I would highly recommend.
(4)Lisa M.
Definitely higher priced, but worth the splurge for really flavorful, chef-quality cuisine. Most people think fried food is all the same, but the fried whole-bellied clams here are unbelievable. Light, seasoned and nicely crumb-coated, not covered in thick yucky batter or overly-greasy. The dipping sauce is amazing with fresh herbs...no grocery store bottled tartar sauce here. It's a small space and very modern with an open kitchen.
(4)Stephanie R.
Delish! Totally pigged out here and had a wide sampling of seafood: lobster roll (we all agreed that this was one of if not the best ever!), dozens of oysters, artichoke and asparagus salad, mussels, and lobster mac n' cheese. The only weak dish was the mac n' cheese, but only because we didn't taste or see any lobster in the dish! Otherwise, everything else more than made up for this mishap. This place only has a limited number of tables, so be sure to book in advance!
(5)Emily G.
I have to say my 2 star review is rated primarily on speed of service. I went to B and G on Friday of restaurant week with my girl friend for a lunch. Since this was during working hours, I was hoping to do a quick gab-session/delicious lunch and then head back to work. We got to the restaurant at 12:30 and at that point it wasn't too busy. We placed our entire 3 course restaurant week order and also the Chef's selection of 6 oysters. When the oysters came out at around 1:15 (it had already been about 45 minutes) I asked what kind of oysters they were. We were told they were 6 Blue Point, which was a little disappointing because this isn't really a "selection" of oysters - it's just 6 of the cheapest oysters they have. Still, I love oysters, and we gladly ate them. At around 1:30 our appetizer came out. I began getting fidgety because I had put an hour and a half worth of quarters into the meter, thinking an hour and a half for lunch would be plenty of time. It was now an hour in and no sign of our entree. We didn't get our lunch sandwich until a few minutes before 2 o'clock. I was already panicking because it was time to go back to work, my meter was expiring, and I was starving. I had the Salmon BLT which was meh. The salmon salad was decent, but they lobbed it onto two really buttery rolls, and soggy soggy bacon. I ended up removing the bacon and attempting to eat parts of the bread - but mainly focusing on the salmon. They served this with fries which were beautiful - but not too crisp. I kind of just wanted to leave already. We finished up our lunch a little after 2 o'clock and I didn't have time to stay for the dessert we ordered. It seemed like only one waiter was working, and at this point it was quite a bit busier. The hostess noticed that my girl friend and I were itching to leave - and I asked for the check. She offered to bring our desserts over to-go, and while my girl friend turned this down, I said - sure. We finished up and paid, I got the dessert to go - and we left. I was most surprised that they hadn't pre-prepped some of the items for restaurant week. You know everyone's going to be ordering certain items repetitively all week, so be prepared! Also since it is restaurant week, maybe more than one server? I was letdown by this. Better planning. When I returned to my car - of course - there was a ticket on my car. I guess an hour and a half was not quite enough for lunch. This added to my disappointment. The final kicker was later that night, I opened the dessert to share with my husband, and it wasn't even prepared. It was a deconstructed, uncooked dessert. Are you kidding? I would have rather they didn't give us this container of sauce, container of nuts - and blob of uncooked dessert. Pitiful. This place has real potential, I'm sure - which is why I gave it 2 stars - but ANY time I'm looking for an awesome seafood experience/oyster experience - I think I'll just head on down to Island Creek Oyster House instead...
(2)Raymond W.
I really wanted to like B&G Oysters more, but the restaurant week menu disappointed. We both got shrimp croquettes, which ended up being the best part of the meal. It was hot and crispy, with nice soft interior of potatoes and shrimp. The trout and lentils were good texture wise and the broccoli rabe was nicely seasoned, but nothing really wowed us. The dessert could have used the most work as my banana torte was more like a banana nut muffin that was on the dry side like it had been pre-plated over 1 hour in advance. The chocolate on the plate was pretty much stuck to the plate. The interior is a little cramped so don't plan on bringing a group. I would suggest ordering off the regular menu and trying out the signature dishes. That's what I'll be doing next time.
(3)Jane P.
Save up your $ and come here at least once in your life. The oysters are so fresh and DELICIOUS. My gawd. My sister had a white wine and my dad had a beer (both were the best wine and beer I've ever had...). I'm sorry I dunno the names of them but just ask the waiter/watiress what he/she recommends and you won't be disappointed. Oh I remember, my dad got the Octoberfest....I hope I got that right. Anyway, we each got to eat an oyster from the east coast and west coast. YUMMALICIOUS.. then we all got the lobster poached in butter. It's not a lot of food but it's just so good. It's high class baby. I don't really like the bread they give you in the beginning...it's too hard and not warm...but the olive oil is amazing. We sat outside even though it was cold but it's heated so you're good to go.
(4)Michael N.
Normally, I'm no seafood fan. I think crabs are worse than the STD, oysters look like snot hors d'oeuvres, and mussels taste like erasers dusted in salt. The only seafood I'll eat has to be drowned in mayonnaise (tuna fish) or fried and dipped in marinara sauce (calamari). Other than that, if the animal didn't shit between two upright legs onto God's green earth, I generally ain't eatin' it. Alas, my parents do not share my hatred for all things fishy. They're seafood demolishers and connoisseurs, purveyors of a two-person aquatic genocide of Stalinistic proportions. So, when they came up a few weekends ago for a visit, they made reservations at "B&G Oysters." Great, I thought. Another night of munching on bread and stopping at Chipotle before heading home. Oh, how wrong I was. I took the plunge headfirst into the ocean's delights, and, surprisingly, came out breathing (see what I did there?). The calamari, perfectly - and lightly - fried, ranks among the best I've ever had, delicious and tender, not a hint of that road-tire consistency that plagues lesser squids. The lobster-roll BLT was amazing. I can count on my hand the number of times I've had lobster in my life, but this was the best. Generous chunks of fresh lobster, sweet mayo, excellent bacon and vegetables on a toasted roll - wonderful. The restaurant made me a lobster fan for life. Service was quick and friendly, with a very knowledgeable and charming hostess. The only knock on the place comes from its beer selection - small and underwhelming. A few more choices and it would have been 5 stars -- still, a tremendous downtown-Boston dining experience.
(4)J W.
First off, bring your wallet. And someone else's wallet. But, with all that dough, you will enjoy the food. Get the Lobster BLT. It's the best combination ever invented. A little sea and a little salty pork. Somehow that works out to be a great partnership. The oysters are great. Did I say expensive? But after several species, they were all still good. Fried oysters are to die for. Expensive for six fried oysters but nice light crispy breading placed on the shell which has been coated in a dill infused tartar sauce. Got to do it. Just bring money. Lots of it. Beer and wine are tasty, just not an overwhelming choice. But you should be able to find one you like. Gets a little loud and crowded but great for dates or getting to know each other. Not such a good family reunion type place. Parking is non existent so plan to capture a meter.
(5)Erica H.
This was such a disappointment. After reading all the great reviews, I was determined to walk the 2 miles in hot and humid weather to eat the infamous lobster roll. The food was ok and the staff was friendly, but did a terrible job. I walked in and asked if I could sit at the bar. They said I could sit anywhere. Ten minutes later, I had to ask for a menu. I asked about the oysters and he handed me a card with their daily selection. I ordered oysters from both coasts and a lobster roll. He didn't ask me if I wanted anything to drink, so I stuck with water, though I would have liked to pair a nice wine with the oysters. 15 minutes later, the oysters came out. I had some from Maine, New York, Virginia and Washington state. I must say, Virginian oysters were the meatiest, sweetest and cleanest! I sat right in front of the bar and got to watch them shuck oysters and prep some of the dishes. 45 minutes after I ordered, the host took my oyster plate and I asked to see if I still had the order for the lobster roll. It came 5 minutes later and I couldn't help but notice that tables that came in after me already had their entrees. It was not busy at all. The lobster roll was the perfect portion, but a little more bland than expected. The lobster was fresh and had great texture. Th fries had great flavor, but they were from the bottom of the batch, so I had a lot of little bits instead of nice long fries I saw going on other orders. The host asked if I enjoyed the lobster roll and I said it was good, just not happy with the fries and had to ask for more water. He said, "Oh, ok" and refilled it. My cup had been empty for over 15 minutes. No effort was made to obtain anymore feedback. I have always tipped even when it was poor service, but this was just irritating. When my relatives come to visit, we will have to find another oyster bar.
(2)Nguyet N.
Great atmosphere. I liked the calimari, just enough seasoning. Tad pricey but well worth it for a guaranteed fun night.
(4)Anton K.
Awesome oysters and other seafood. Great atmosphere and the layout of the restaurant is cool.
(5)K K.
Service was great, fun to sit at the bar watching food prep. Everything we had was good, but the order of preference was steamed littlenecks, oysters, lobster roll and sepia/ spaghetti with octopus. Service was friendly, we did not feel rushed. With ressy we were seated right away. Strong wine list.
(4)Amy M.
I came to B&G Oysters back in May during Memorial Day weekend when I came to Boston on a weekend trip. The place was a bit cozy and on the small side with some seating outside in the patio. We waited a little bit for seats since we didn't make any reservations. It was about a 10 minute wait during the weekend for dinner. Also, the restaurant has an open kitchen so you can see the madness that goes on behind the scenes. That was an interesting experience. For appetizers, we had the fried oysters with home made tartar sauce! That was to die for! The fried oysters with the tartar sauce was soooo amazing. It melts in your mouth! Since we thought that wasn't enough for us, we decided to also try the raw oysters and selected different types of oysters from different places. They tasted interesting. I've never really had raw oysters before this so it was a nice experience. For entrees, I ordered the Lobster BLT Roll and he ordered the Lobster Roll. Both of them came with french fries. Both the lobster rolls were amazing! I never knew anything could taste so good. Again, this is the first time I've had a lobster roll and I'm glad this was the first place I have tried it at. Now, I just have to try the lobster rolls from different places. I didn't know what to expect before coming to this place, but I enjoyed my time here and especially, the food! :) If you're in Boston, definitely check out B&G Oysters and don't forget to make a reservation.
(5)Carl C.
Way overly priced but the staff is awesome! The average price for an oyster is at least $3.15 that in my book is just plain ridiculous! I can get local NC oysters picked by local fisherman for about $14 for a dozen! My bill was $82 for a salad, six oysters and two glasses of wine WTF is going on here? Just plain fuk!n sick if you ask me.
(2)Krista U.
patio evening seating is a must
(5)Abby F.
Awesome Service, Awesome food. I will definitely go back for their lobster roll!!!
(5)Stephen T.
My first experience at this place was an amazing one. First off, try to make a reservation. We got there at about 6 on a Saturday, and it was fully booked. We were able to get bar seats after about 15 minutes though. That being said, bar seats are the way to go. Watching the professionals in action is a great show with the dinner. Oysters - Cold, Clean, Fresh. They were fantastic. Couldn't ask for anything more from them. Clam Chowder - Not bad. It wasn't very thick, but had a great deal of clams. Fried Oysters - Very yummy. Normally I enjoy raw oysters way more than cooked ones, but these were cooked quite well. Very lightly breaded with a good sauce. Scallop Carpaccio - Also very good. I couldn't get a good taste for the scallops though. There was too much sauce involved. Pickled mushrooms on top were also tasty. Spottail Bass - These people know how to cook fish. Crispy on the outside, soft and moist on the inside. Just the right amount of salt to make the flavors pop. Service at the bar was excellent. Our server showed up at all the right times and kept our wine glasses full without being intrusive. Ambiance feels cozy with a touch of industrial. Noise level is a little bit high due to the size of the place. Overall, the food and experience was excellent. As other reviews have stated, the prices are high, but definitely worth my experience there.
(5)Keith S.
Went on a Sunday afternoon and found the place half full...which was expected as it was Sunday before turkey day and 20 degrees and windy outside. Sat at the bar, which we enjoyed, as it gives a perfect sightline into the food prep. Started with a half dozen oysters, per staff's recommendation, and they were fantastic. Wife had the Crab Bisque which was a 4/5 as there weren't any chunks of crab. With a still full stomach from our calzones from Bova (North End), we split the Lobster Roll. In short, not the best I've ever had. It is good...don't get me wrong. It's just that the lobster is chopped (I prefer chunks) and kinda dry as it has no mayo base...which I prefer. Just a preference thing. Overall, place is very clean, staff very attentive and the food was what we were hoping for.
(4)Dan L.
This place is OK - it's overpriced for what you get and it's obviously trying really hard but for me it comes down to the food and taste. The server was awesome - really great sense of humor and fun. I got the lobster roll, which by itself is 4 or 5 star, but I had several of the other dishes and they were not nearly as good. I liked the cole slaw a lot and the fries were pretty standard. The sturgeon was well-cooked, but pretty small and expensive. I ended up being glad I didn't get it. I also figure I just don't like the taste of sturgeon - it's very strong tasting - but it was well-prepared. The fried oyster appetizer had a delicious tartar sauce but the oysters themselves were too salty and you couldn't appreciate the oyster flavor at all. The chowder was pretty good - lots of nice big pieces of real clam and a thinnish but tasty soup base. It did take quite a while to get our food but we had bread, drinks and conversation to keep us occupied.
(3)Victoria H.
I went to this wonderful but small restaurant on my birthday, it was very relaxing. I felt like I was at an NYC type atmosphere. I tried their wine list. Their list was filled with very tasteful flavors. As for food, I had their delicious fried point Judith calamari, with a side of their house French fries. Their tarter sauce matched perfectly with the calamari. I also tried their raw Oyster bar. The Oysters were fresh, it had a nice sea taste to it. As for dessert, I tried their roasted apple tartlet. It was very moist and sweet. The flavor to the tart, sealed the deal to the end of a wonderful dinning experience and a excellent evening. I will defiantly come back to B&Gs, because of the atmosphere and food is worth coming back for more.
(5)Carol K.
This is my kind of place. Yes, it is a bit pricey but I thought the evening and the meal was the best I have had in a long time. My only complaint was the wine list. We found it expensive and not inclusive of California wines. Ok, that aside, why 5 stars? The steamed clams. Dip your bread into that red broth and whimper. Secondly, the best lobster roll I ever had. Again, moan. The oysters were good and fresh. I thought it was fun to do an oyster tasting from various local regions. But, the steamed clams and the lobster roll were the stars of the evening. We were seated at a table right up against the open air kitchen. We enjoyed the culinary show. The tables are close together so we got to chatting with our neighbors on Boston sightseeing tips. Tres fun and oh so delicious. Did I mention the steamed clams and lobster roll? Thanks fellow yelpers for your recommendation!
(5)Diane Z.
I guess this is a four-star place... For Boston. Maybe my standards are too high, but this place disappointed me. The oysters were poorly shucked, with bits of shell everywhere. We shared the special salmon tartare appetizer. It was unpleasantly warm and not very flavorful. The lobster roll was tiny and you can get better elsewhere (eg. Neptune!). The Sturgeon was cooked very nicely, but the lamb that came on the side was like dog food -- soggy texture and bland. But the atmosphere is very cute. The open kitchen is nice and it's cool to see everything happening. Bottom line, go to Neptune instead.
(3)F R.
It is hard for me to read some of these reviews and believe we were at the same restaurant. I ate at B&G on Monday, June 2 with two friends. First time for all of us. None of us was impressed. All of us said we never return. We started with calamari which was like chewing on rubber bands in tasteless batter. Two of us had the cod entree which was served in a large plate which only highlighted the small serving which was poorly seasoned. The only positive was the fried clam entree which was nicely cooked in a light batter served with a generous helping of fries.
(2)Russell B.
Neat place. Elevated versions of classic casual seafood dishes. Service was not as attentive as you'd expect in such a small place. They forgot a dessert we ordered but recovered quickly and comped it. I would crawl to the ends of the earth for the popcorn panna cotta.
(4)Andrew A.
Great neighborhood spot with awesome food and superior service. A nice plus was sitting next to Robert Duvall and Billy Bob Thornton :)
(5)Corona W.
My rating of three stars is based on the lunch menu for restaurant week 2011. I hard the lobster arancini, the mussels and the peanut butter chocolate cake. While good, the food didn't blow me away. My chocolate cake wasn't too heavy and not overly sweet, but presentation was lacking. It was a piece of chocolate cake lying there in peanut butter. I tried my friend's panna cotta and it was definitely better. I may be back to try their oysters -- Maybe I'll bump my review up to four stars.
(3)Alistair B.
Overpriced and service is slow. Food is OK.
(1)Stephanie C.
On this trip to Boston we made the decision to venture away from our beloved Neptune and over to Barbara Lynch's oyster house. I'm glad we tried something new. The neighborhood, for one, is adorable. Set amongst brownstones you instantly feel like you're in for a leisurely dining experience. We arrived for our lunchtime reservation and sat on their 'not to be beat' patio. I'm currently thinking of what kind of private party I can have down there. Rather than order entrees we decided to go with a dozen oysters and three appetizers. At first I got the impression that the waitress was less than thrilled with us but she became friendlier as the day went on. Her recommendations for oysters and a paired wine were spot on. oysters were fresh and I was stunned at how the shuckers are able to preserve so much brine. Off the menu we ordered the heirloom tomato salad, the asparagus. The asparagus with fried egg was the star of the appetizer course, followed by the heirloom tomato salad. Though I'll be back to Neptune the next time I can foresee another trip to B&G for the Lobster BLT.
(3)Christine C.
4 stars for food and 3 stars for service.Not that this place needs any more reviews, but I wanted to add my praise to the mix. I came here for lunch with a few friends. It wasn't too busy at the time, around 1pm on a gorgeous sunny Saturday in May. We asked for an assortment of oysters and a recommendation for a white wine to start. I loved that the servers asked for our usual preference, recommended a few similar, and also mentioned a few different kinds that we may not have tried. I was a fan of the Duxbury, but overall all the oysters were lovely and tasty. Most of us got the lobster roll and one had the halibut. I prefer the lobster roll here to the one at Island Creek. Similar amount of lobster, but they use less mayo here and I like B&G's bread better. The restaurant is pretty small with limited seating inside. I call it charming, but others may feel cramped. We sat outside in the patio, which was cute and well shaded. The food was great, but I was a bit disappointed with the service. It took us forever to get a waiter over to take our order. After taking our oyster and wine order, it seemed to be another 30 before he came for our entree order. On top of that, they forgot to put our shisito peppers order in, so we got it after we finished all the food...2.5 hours later. 2+ hours for lunch on a not so busy Saturday seemed a bit much.
(4)Rob C.
First, the service - at first I thought my guest and I would be a little under dressed for this place, but the host was wearing jeans, so I guess we were fine. Oh, and this was no ordinary host - I mentioned that I had a metered spot and would need to seek quarters and feed it. He said, "don't worry, I'll take care of that." Sure enough, about an hour later I gave him some cash and he fed my meter! Awesomeness. Our waitress was spot on and we had a view of the chefs at work who were nice enough to entertain our questions while we watched them work. Food was great and about what I'd expect for the price. My friend got a monster lobster roll that he loved but it looked like a lot of liquid was pouring out of it (IMO). I got the halibut, which was cooked perfectly.
(4)Nhi N.
I've had food here twice, both times the food was really good. It won't change your life, but it's very solid. They have a great selection of oysters, and it's always fresh and delicious. The lobster roll was good but nothing to write home about. The bisque was really good, however. I had a scallop dish the first time I was there (for restaurant week), and that was good, but also not amazing. I would've added another star if the service was better. I'm usually not one of those difficult customers who demanded a lot of attention and docked stars if I didn't get good service, but for the price we're paying and the attitude we're receiving, it's kind of unfair to give a good review when the service is not satisfactory. The first time, perhaps because it was too busy, we waited for a reallyyyyy long time between dishes, and waited at least 20 minutes before the check came. The second time - maybe it's an off day? maybe the weather got cold the first time in the season today and no one at B&G found it in themselves to be nice? Our water was never once filled and we were never asked for our order until we decided to be rude and waved at someone, even though it was after 1:30 pm and there were only 2 tables and a few bar seats occupied. And everyone was slightly sarcastic for no reason, and one of the servers kept questioning my order (not in the "excuse me I didn't catch that" kind of way but more like "are you sure you want that?").It's hard to explain, and it's not just me being paranoid - my friend had to agree, and he's the most easygoing person you'll ever meet. Sigh. It was a really weird experience. Not sure if it's worth coming back when I have Coppa & Toro right around the corner...
(3)Josephine L.
I've come to the conclusion that I'm never going to have my mind blown by a Barbara Lynch restaurant. I've been to them all except Menton and the experiences have ranged from quite good to severely, overratedly disappointing. B&G falls on the better end of that spectrum. It has almost the exact same layout as all the other Tremont St/South End restaurants (think loooong bar with 2-4 seater tables surrounding it in a rectangular room), meaning you should make reservations if you hope to get your party of 4 plus 3 strollers of squalling infants seated at 8pm on a Friday night (seriously, who does that?). My friend and I came here first and foremost for the oysters. We tried 3 different kinds and they were all fantastically fresh if not pricey. If you like your oysters meaty and sweet...y, go for West Coast oysters. I recommend the Puget Sound ones. If you like briney, go for East Coast/Virginia oysters. Of course, they all taste like seafood sauce to me because I'm too much of a baby to enjoy the actual taste of oysters (I think they taste like ocean vomit). But I'm also too much of a wuss to actually swallow the damn things whole, so I always end up partially chewing them and thus tasting them anyway. For entrees, I got the Red Snapper and my friend got the Sturgeon special. Both were very well-done, though the Snapper edges out for me on account of the delicious cauliflower puree. Puree is the new sauce. Mashed up cauliflowers make good sauce. We both enjoyed wine pairings too and both her Riesling and my Sauvignon Blanc were fantastic. Thank ye waiter for the recs! Overall, a great place to have a delicious seafood dinner and catch up with a foodie friend. For the same price range, I'd put B&G over Sportello and The Butcher Shop.
(4)Ayala K.
Very nice, cozy space. Efficient reservation process. For someone visiting from the San Francisco Bay Area, the food is kind of OK -- nothing to be excited about. The gnocchi was kind of stiff and flavorless. The seared tuna, cioppino and cod entrees, edible. No reasonable ratio between the extremely high price and the food quality and lack of cuisine originality. Super petite portions. Overpriced wine list. Zagat has completely overrated this place.
(2)Maria Z.
I finally figured out where I like my oysters from! This place gives you a sample card to take home. I like oysters from cold water better - New Brunswick to be precise.
(4)Karen K.
5 stars for easily the best oysters I have ever had. Sorry Connie Teds in W Hollywood - I don't care how fast you can ship them. Oysters will always be better closer to their origin. Side note - we were excited for the birthday cake. Very disappointing.
(5)Kimble M.
Oysters, oysters and more oysters. And some other seafood, but really, it's all about the oysters. B&G can be a little pricey, but it's always worth it. For the ideal experience, come with one other person, a fellow oyster lover, in the lull between lunch and dinner, sit at the bar, order some wine, and have them choose an array of the lunch oysters to serve you with a side of their perfect little mignonette. Drink, catch up, savor the nuances between their varied oyster selections, then do it all over again, this time with a selection of the dinner oysters and a different, crisp, well-paired wine suggestion. With the right companion, you'll have an excellent afternoon of eating, learning about the different kind of oysters, a good buzz and some sparkling conversation.
(5)Sammi N.
This place already gets wayyyyy too many reviews, so what's my extra one got to do with it. Well... #1: I like to think I have followers who trust my reviews #2: I am bored at work and I need something productive to do I love oysters! And B&G is my fave in the city. I haven't been to Neptune so please don't email me and argue that Neptune is better. If you go here, make a reservation; if not, bar seats open up fairly easily on a weekday night. On a nice night, ask to sit outside on the patio (they also have heat on a cooler day). Most romantic outdoor dining in the city! Plan of attack: #1 order champagne. I like a glass of Simonet. (hey, if you're going oysters, might as well go like a baller) #2 order oysters and get a sample of everything! You can never go wrong, especially if you love oysters #3 skip the entrees, and order apps for your main course - I love the calamari (so fresh!), mussels, and split the lobster roll (that's if you're dining for 2 people - share everything). Service here is stellar! Not pretentious whatsoever as you would expect from a high-end seafood restaurant. They are attentive, laid-back, young and professional. I'm always impressed when you read off a whole list of the kinds of oysters you want, and they never have to write it down! It is pricey, so go on special occasions... unless you're a baller, then splurge my friend... you won't be disappointed! Barbara Lynch knows what she's doing.
(5)Liza K.
This place is adorably charming with a tightly spaced dining area, but it all flowed fairly nicely. I had the lobster roll and a plate of fresh oysters. I have to say it wasn't THE best lobstah roll I've had in Boston, but it was certainly up there and definitely worth a comparison. The meat was plentiful, dressed to the T, and fresh. But for me the lobster meat was missing that hint of sweet oceanie goodness. The fries...oooooh yeah the fries were as good as fries get, crispy on the outside nuttin but fluff on the inside - addictive. The bread and butter pickles were also a great compliment. The oysters were fresh and succulent as well. I'm glad we tried it, parking was a pain but where isn't it in Boston? I would definitely come back again to try other items.
(4)Stephanie C.
Oh My. I went a little crazy here, well because, it's Boston and I love me some oysters and fish. Amazing lobster roll? B&G's got it. Amazing lobster bisque? Got it. Amazing fresh, fish entrees? Got it. Amazing Oyster's that taste good, and are fun to watch while being shucked? Yes. Yes, Yes. You get the picture. If ever in Boston, come here. I would say this is kind of like Rodney's Oyster House in Vancouver for any Canadians reading this, which I also liked very much. Maybe a more casual Aquagrill (dare I?- from my observativation, not experience)- or maybe more of a BLT Fish. I made a reservation for me and girlfriend for 8pm on a Thursday night and we were seated promptly at the bar. Decor is trendy, sceney, and modern. WIth buzzing conversation in the background and pleasant service (very professional, polite.. as you'd see these type of upscale places but still the right amount of cas-they do takeout!) Our server make great suggsestions, esp when explaining the oyster selection; we overall had a really nice meal. What to get: My friend- an entree: the swordfish. Amazing mustard greens - perfectly picked and crunchy (they're often soggy) . Decadent olive relish (I love olives)- the perfect mix between salty and sour which complimented the fish like nobody's business. The fish was not overcooked, which is perfect for a tougher fish like swordfish...well, it was tough. How it should be. Grilled to perfection .. even the lime beans tasted good! ;). Other recommendations, says our waiter: the cod ( great choice in New England) Me- Ready for an oinky moment? Raw bar, 1/2 dozen of a random assortment. I told them to bring out there best... needless to say, I mostly got west coast oysters (wah wah)- from CA and Washington state, mainly from the kumamoto family... sweet, tiny and delish. But there were some east coasters- from Long Island. I think I had a Woodbury Littleneck too (see they feature these all alone on the menu). Everything was really fresh- no sauce needed! Me- Lobster Bisque. Talk about creamy lobster and plentiful lobster chunks! The celery was a nice addition too- spices up the texture. Main takeaway: creamy deliciousness with lots of sweet lobster. Bowl was an appetizer but was it was pretty big! :) Us- We shared the lobster roll. Love the buttery pickles- two flavors I thought would never mix but Chef Barbara Lynch makes it work. A New England classic, this roll has all the right ingridients. Fresh white bread, crispy , pipping hot fries and lots of sweet lobster claw. Yum! Just like in Maine :) Us again: DESSERT: BarbanCourt Rum Cake.. why do I always feel like seafood joints have rum desserts? Maybe it's because we're all wishing it's hot summer day and we're lying down somewhere on an island HAHA. This cake had a strong rum flavor; I liked this. Not a huge fan of caramel because it's often too sweet but the walnut brittle eased it with some bitterness. And the maple ice cream was divine. Ok, we spend a fortune. Let's say the oysters were $3 a punch, and the entrees somewhere in the mid-upper $20s, and the bisque was $14. NY Prices- but like the 212, great service and atmosphere. I would come back (and tone it down of course) but I have no regrets! :) 4 Stars!
(4)Lisa S.
After months of hearing about B&G Oysters, I finally made it! It is difficult to get a reservation- we reserved 2 weeks in advance and only 6:30pm was available. The restaurant is small and intimate. The kitchen is open, surrounded by a long bar counter with bar stools, and a few tables along the wall. They also have an outdoor patio for nicer weather. The dress code is casual- I wore a nice dress there, and while waiting for the bathroom, another woman in line asked me if I had a special event I was going to. Most people were wearing nice jeans and a dressy top, or a casual dress. We were seated right away and brought delicious bread and olive oil. The bread was refilled when we emptied it, but was brought with a small amount of olive oil. We had to ask for more, and then ran out of it again. My dad made a joke about how the olive oil was rationed, so it was a bit awkward. My mom and I actually don't like oysters (I know, sacrilegious!), so we opted for other choices on the menu. I ordered the fried calamari and a lobster roll, and my mother ordered a shrimp cocktail (priced per shrimp, you pick how many) and a lobster roll. My dad ordered 4 different kinds of oysters- starting with 4 as an appetizer and 8 later as his entree. If you love oysters, they have a whole oyster menu and charge per oyster- so you can easily have an oyster tasting meal. We ordered a few glasses of wine to start and then a bottle of wine, but my parents were a bit disappointed in the wine list. There were bottles on the menu that were quite expensive ($80ish), and only a few bottles in a bit more reasonable price range. However, all the wines we had were delicious- but more price diversity on the menu would have been appreciated. My father said that the oysters were clean and fresh and he really enjoyed them. My fried calamari was amazing, and the portion was quite large. My mom's shrimp were huge and tasty. The oysters and shrimp arrived on ice at the table, which was a cute touch. My mom and I LOVED our lobster rolls- they were simple, overflowing with delicious lobster, and served with absolutely amazing french fries. It also came with some pickles and "coleslaw" that was unlike any I've had before- normally I *hate* coleslaw, but their version was so tasty that I ate every bite. Definitely no complaints on the food whatsoever. We finished our meal by sharing a pecan pie sundae, which was pretty tasty. Our waitress was really nice but she went a bit MIA during the meal. The timing was a bit off with my dad's reordering oysters- we had all finished appetizers, my mom and I got our food, and the waitress didn't come by for maybe 5 minutes to get his order for his next round of oysters, so my mom and I just sat there staring at our delicious lobster roll. We would have been more annoyed, except she looked pretty busy in the few times we saw her run by. Overall, I enjoyed my dinner at B&G. The space was adorable, the food and wine were delicious, and we went out for drinks in the South End afterward. However, I think it would be more enjoyable if you came in for casual oysters at the bar with a date rather than planning a family dinner ahead of time.
(4)Dennis E.
oysters were heavenly. opted for the raspberry point ones on the waiters recommendation they were amaaaazing. i'm an oyster fiend and my girl isn't but was comfortable with the other seafood items on the menu. i really like a small menu that ensures fresh great food so the limitations I saw as a major benefit. oh yea and they were interviewing the award-winning owner for TV on the table next to me, which helps score points with your girl when she gets on TV! great service, cool atmosphere, everything I could of wanted topped with horseradish this place is my oyster
(5)James N.
Pretty good overall. Had the lobster roll, they do put a lot of lobster in it which is great, and it was good but I think maybe my expectations were too high. The fried oysters were absolutely delicious though, and are a must-have. I would go back again for the fried oysters.
(4)Anthony C.
Should I care that this is a total Yuppie hangout? Que la faune n'est pas super sympathique? I probably should, but I can't when the food is so delicious. Seafood restaurants in Boston are generally pretty good. But this one! The fish is of course great. But that roasted beet appetizer w/the pistachio cream! Just as good. A meal here costs twice the price of one at Legal. So go half as many times. Dessert is only OK. Waitstaff is solicitous but not unctuous. This is praise. Yum.
(5)Caroline L.
Okay food for an overhyped price. The oysters were good. We had the lobster roll and the hake. While both were good, we found it over priced.
(3)Tamika H.
Hubby and I visited this place with friends and was blow away by the food. It was INCREDIBLE, and cooked to perfection. I had the Cod, which was beautifully prepared. We also enjoyed the wine selection; we paired the Spanish wine selection with our food, which worked well. It does get very loud, but this was not an issue for us. Also important to note that you will feel as if you are seated in the kitchen. The kitchen is open and you have a great view into how the food is being prepared. I really like that! We will definitely be visiting this place again.
(4)Christine J.
OYSTERS........ DROOOOOOL.... DELICIOUS. A FAN OF BL restaurants.
(4)Valarie G.
Came here for dinner Sunday night. I got a call about 15 minutes before heading out the door from the restaurant to inform us that they were out of lobster already. When we arrived, we were promptly sat at our table despite the line waiting out the door because we had a reservation. I ordered the tuna, but they were out of that as well, along with the clam chowder- leaving only fried dishes or halibut or bass. (they replaced the clam chowder with corn chowder but who comes to Boston for corn chowder?) I had one of the bass dishes, but was disappointed that they were out of so many of their better options. The service was ok - had to stop our waitress each time we needed more water. Also the music was very very loud and played early 90s rap, which for me destroyed the ambiance. My husband and I had to yell to hear each other over the "music". Finally our food came and the portions were small, but the food was very good. Too bad I already felt cheated out of lobster of tuna (or clam chowder!) to really enjoy my bass. Overall I was very disappointed with B&G Oysters - probably because this was the #1 meal I was most excited about on my trip to Boston. What a let down!
(2)Tara H.
I am officially an oyster fan. The credit goes to B & G Oysters. I've had oysters maybe 2 times, and nothing about it was increadibly memorable. Yeah, they were tasty. But that was about it. However, the deliciousness that is B&G totally has me hooked. First off, I went with two oyster pros who ordered choices I was totally unfamiliar with. This doesn't help with the details of the oysters themselves. However each oyster was perfection, perhaps one of the most tiny yet filling treats I have ever devoured. Served on ice, and the most fresh tasting sauce to accompany each, I was blown away. I couldn't get enough. And if I had my way, I could have kept going. What really was a delight on top of all this, my friends and I arrived around 7pm on a Saturday and got outside seating immediately. AND we spoke with two waitresses, who really took time not only to discuss the menu but also just spoke with us in general. We had beyond superb service, which made this final meal with my friends before moving a truly beautiful night. Perhaps two hours later, we left full and tipsy, pleased with our evening. I miss this place!
(5)Ashley P.
I wanted to give this place 5 stars. It was excellent. But there was one thing keeping me from a 5 star rating.... But let's talk about the good things first, and let me tell you, there were a lot of them! We walked in and were seated in the awesome little corner booth type scenario. Great for people watching, comfortable, and enough space. Our waitress, Hillary, approached us and was super nice and helpful. (Dear B&G managers, you should give her a raise or something, she was great). She helped us with our oyster selections and made wine recommendations as well. Everything we had was wonderful. It was restaurant week, so we got the three course meal. The clam chowder was delicious; however, the clams were very (repeat very) chewy. Weird right? But whatever, the cream/broth literally had us licking the bowls. I had the scallops for dinner which were quite possibly the best scallops I have ever had in my life. Perfectly cooked, great sides, great sauces. In one word - amazing! My boyfriend had the fish which was so flaky and perfect and amazing. Dessert was also to die for. I had the chocolate mouse (with a bit of wine recommended again by the amazing Hillary!). It had toffee and salt, mixed with the dark chocolate it was simply perfection. He got the orange pound cake, and for someone who doesn't really like desserts, he really enjoyed this and finished the whole thing. It was truly a wonderful meal and a wonderful experience. By far, the best seafood I have ever had in Boston. So why not 5 stars? The bathroom. I, unfortunately, had a slight accident a few weeks before our date night causing me to be on crutches. I didn't want to cancel our reservation since it had been so hard to get in the first place, so we decided to brave the snow and head in for a nice night despite my injury. So when I asked where the bathroom was, I was directed to the back of the restaurant where a very narrow, steep, and spiral staircase led down the the bathroom. Ugh, really? I would have had trouble with these stairs even without crutches, especially since I was on my fourth glass of wine. I hobbled back to my seat and decided just to wait until I got home. Perhaps, when I am off the crutches I will head back and update my review to 5 stars. I can honestly say the food and the service were outstanding and I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(4)Melba L.
Before going to Boston, I had read in a website that this was one of the top places to go. I made it a point to make sure I ate here before I left. Make sure you make a reservation via Opentable!! We made a reservation for 1:15 and within 15 min the place was absolutely packed. Now granted, they had outdoor seating but who wants to sit in the humid heat?! I had not ordered clam chowder (my fav) yet in Boston. So I decided to order clam chowder. I was with my fiance and they were so nice they split the one order into two bowls for us. Overall this one of the top 2 clam chowders I've had. The other was in Seattle and I refuse to choose which is #1 because they are so different. This clam chowder was liquidy BUT it had all sorts of different pieces of things inside (bacon, potatoe, etc). At the very top it had (what appeared to be the clam) covered in paprika. So when you mixed it in, it turned the liquid pink. It was absolutely delicious in every way. It was the perfect combination of flavors and texture. We also decided to order 1 lobster roll. I had not yet eaten a lobster roll, but I was nervous about the mayo. I am NO FAN of mayo. HATE MAYO. So I was a bit anxious when they brought it out to us. And once again, their service is just fantastic! They brought out the lobster roll cut into 2 on two seperate plates loaded with fries. They did not have to do that. They could have just cut it in half and given me an extra plate. That says a lot about their service! Back to the lobster roll (sorry have a bit of ADD). It was just absolutely amazing. The texture, the taste... just perfect. Did not even taste a hint of mayo. As for the fries they were on the crispy side (not soggy) and were very tasty. If my memory serves me correctly, I believe they had some sort of green herb on them. Last but not least, my fiance ordered oysters. He ordered 1 of each and absolutely loved every bit of it. They brought out a card indicating which oyster was which in clockwise order. And they were already "shucked" (as he put it). He absolutely loved them (I'm not an oyster person) This place is every bit pricey but I would do it again in a heartbeat!!! Food was amazing and the service is absolutely exceptional!
(5)Caitlin A.
Ok, so after hearing about this place from tons of friends and seeing it reviewed as "best sandwich" on the show The Best Thing I Ever Ate, we decided to give it a go. It's tiny. Cluster phobic tiny. But a lively atmosphere. I can see how some may see this place as romantic, but seeing as they seated another couple practically on top of us, so...not so much. To start I got a 1/2 dozen oysters. They were great; there was a nice selection to choose from, they were fresh and they weren't too pricey. For dinner I got the Lobster BLT and he got the Atlantic Char. While we were talking we noticed our food being brought over to the table next to us by the incompetent hostess. The guy says, "I ordered the lobster roll", but instead of realizing her error, she drops the char at the table and brings the BLT back to the kitchen. Finally 20 minutes later when our server comes by and sees the table next to us chomping away, and us with nothing, she runs to the kitchen and comes out with food shortly after. My BLT was good, a decent amount of lobster, delicious pork fat, but the bread was way to hard. It made the sandwich that much less enjoyable. Most definitely not worth 28$. The Char was cooked perfectly, but the portion size was ridiculously small. How do these people charge so much? He also didn't like the wild rice that it came with, nor was he full. To make up for the mishap with our dinners, our waitress brought over a plate of fried oysters on the house. I hate fried oysters and he wont touch any kind of oyster so, though it was a nice gesture, it was a waste of food. Overall, I was not impressed by the food, definitely not the prices and not the service. "Eh" is the word that comes most to mind.
(2)Alan C.
From start to finish, I was very disappointed with this restaurant. Everything, from service to food, was sub-par. The restaurant was very small, with some outdoor seating. We decided to sit outdoors. We placed our order: 12 different types of oysters, a clam chowder, king salmon tartar, and fried green tomatoes. The various types of oysters was interesting. This is definitely an interesting place if you're an oyster aficionado. The clam chowder was also interesting, but not exactly to my liking... but to each his own. Then we waited about half an hour for the king salmon tartar and fried green tomatoes to arrive while every other table around us promptly got their food. I felt the server was too busy socializing (with other guests and other servers) to notice that we never received the rest of our order. When the food finally came, they were a huge disappointment. I wish I would have tried a lobster roll so I could review on that, but as far as what we had, I could only recommend this place to an oyster lover.
(2)Libby T.
Oyster-heaven. Great selection, super fresh, and professionally shucked (no sand or shell, thank you!). The fish wasn't incredible, but definitely fresh. I went with my Grandparents as a last minute option when they were in town. Definitely not 70-something appropriate - high bar chairs and hip hop, though the food was amazing and I (with a younger date) will definitely be back.
(4)Rachel S.
just had a beer. The server was weird and said we couldn't sit outside because a storm was coming...that was just a lie, not a spot of rain all night. They were just lazy.
(3)Eric F.
After my first wonderful experience with raw seafood at Neptune Oyster, I had to try the offerings of competitors in Boston. First up was B & G Oysters and having completed a big exam this morning, what better time to go out and down some of the sea's delicious inhabitants? ;) The line-up: Island Creek Wellfleet Summerside, P.E.I. Rome Point, Rhode Island Delaware Bay, New Jersey Hunter Point, Washington (very briny for those that love the natural taste =D) Marionport, Massachusetts (delicious! well-balanced savory flavor) French Kiss, New Brunswick Conway Royal, P.E.I. Cedarisland, Rhode Island Chef Creek, British Columbia (crisp & refreshing, lightly briny) Little Wing, British Columbia Though I'm by no means an oyster connoisseur, B & G's offerings were fantastic and I was especially pleased with the Marionports. The more "standard fare" Island Creeks and Wellfleets were also very good, though I'd have to give the nod to Neptune Oyster for their catches of those two varieties. My friend gave their RW menu a shot and decided on the Lobster Bisque, Seafood Gnocchi, and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta. He was very impressed with all of them, especially the former two. I tried a bit of the gnocchi as well and definitely echo his thoughts - the gnocchi had a smooth texture and the clams in the dish were very fresh. How about the wine, you may ask? The selection of whites by the glass was exceptional and I had the chance to try three. The 2008 Louvetrie Muscadet Sevre et Maine is clean and dry with light citrus notes and paired perfectly with the raw seafood. Moving up, the 2008 Granger Beaujolais Villages Blanc La Jacarde offered a medium body with a silky, lingering finish that was delectable. I rounded things out with the 2008 No. 9 Park Pinot Blanc, a very full bodied white with strong buttery notes and a mild oakey flavor. The ambiance of the place is uncannily similar to The Butcher Shop (big surprise =P) - a great balance of modern classiness with an intimate, cozy feel. Our waitress at the bar was friendly, courteous, and attentive and did a great job of keeping track of our progress throughout the meal. So if you ever having a seafood craving, by all means stop by B & G Oysters and give them a try, you won't regret it!
(4)Kelly C.
While not a place I would go often, just because of price, I really enjoyed my dinner there, and don't think anyone would be disapointed by the taste of anything there. Just the price. The waitress was very helpful in suggesting wines, and oysters. Definitely fun to see the VERY different flavors and textures of oyster from all over. While the Corn "beignets" aren't really beignets...they are delicious but sadly overpriced. They appear more like a hush puppy but super light and fluffy on the inside. I chose the lobster roll and felt like the portion was HUGE! The fries were great, and the pickles delicious! Sadly, my dining companion could not say the same for the lobster gnocchi. A tiny portion of pasta and lobster. He would have been much better off with the lobster roll for $27. Just go in knowing you're gonna spend some dough and you won't be disappointed.
(4)Ashley E.
I really want to give B&G 3.5 stars... It was very good, but I don't think it lives up to the hype. The raw selection was impressive, but our waitress really didn't suggest any of the oysters (and we asked her to). She simply said if we liked salty flavor, to choose from the new england oysters (when we asked her to recommend good, new england oysters). The fried oysters were delicious. The lobster roll was also really good, but a little on the small side compared to other restaurants with equal pricing. The lobster did have great flavor and the roll itself was really perfect. The fries, however, were incredibly disappointing; they were overcooked and had almost no flavor. They were too crunchy (there was no soft inside) and many of them looked burnt. Overall, I might go back but I'd rather wait for Island Creek, not B&G.
(3)Dexter Y.
Great service, bomb lobster rolls, and an intimate non-assuming atmosphere makes this 5 stars for me! I've tried lobster rolls at Neptunes and I personally prefer B&G more. The lobster roll @ B&G isn't drenched in butter, has a fresh zesty taste to it, and comes with what i consider among the best fries i've ever had. There are also more variety to the meal than @ Neptunes (pickles, coleslaw, etc) that kept me more than amused throughout the meal. If you want big hearty chunks of lobster bathed in butter, go to Neptunes. If you want a fresher and more flavorfull lobster roll come to B&G.
(5)Andrew B.
The oysters were maybe the best I've ever had. The lobster roll and butter poached lobster dinners were good, but not worth the $30 per plate. The dinner portions were small for the price tag. It is hands down the best fried oyster I've ever had. Only 1 bathroom down a narrow spiral staircase. This place has character.
(4)Helen L.
This place is freakin' AWESOME. It really is as good as it gets for seafood. I went their with my bosses for a business meeting and we got the fried clams for an appetizer and lobster rolls for the meal. The fried clams are the BEST THING EVER. It was AMAAAAZINGGG. It's basically just a fried bunch of greatness, dipped in Tartar sauce. The clams are so fresh!!!! The lobster roll was beautiful-looking, as you can tell by my photos. There are legit CHUNKS of lobster, which is very high quality. Usually, when you go get lobster rolls at normal places like Legals, it's tiny pieces of lobster, but not real chunks. This place had real chunks. The atmosphere was very cute! It was a nice day outside, so we sat outside in their outdoor area and had the sun in our faces. The Lobster roll was $27 so yes, it's pricey. But it was definitely great quality. GET THE FRIED CLAMS. They were my favourite. Not only was the lobster roll good, but the cole slaw and french fries were yummy too! I don't know how they made it so good but it was really tasty. And they had these pickles that were really sweet but somehow went really well with the lobster roll. Service was great; waiter was very friendly. Okay, just go there! Maybe for a nice date. It's a real cute place!
(5)Sean R.
We had great expectations for B&G. We had been to other Barbara Lynch restaurants and loved them. THIS WAS NOT THE CASE TODAY. Service was awful and not very forgiving. Here are the facts: Restaurant Week Boston 8/22/2013 12:15 Reservation - Seated at 12:08. We were one of two tables sat in teh garden outside. One Server, one bus for about 8 tables (not overloaded) Ordered three course lunch meal @ about 12:20, my wife and I added a Chef Selection of 4 Oysters - which by the way was not a selection it was just one location 12:25 - Oysters arrive 12:53 - First course arrives, meanwhile 2 - 2 top, 2 -4 top and 1 -6 top tables have been sat, ordered and been served an oyster course and first course. 1:15 - asked the server for our desserts to go, still had not been served our main dish, and at least half the tables that got sat after us had been served. Server informed us that we had another 8-10 minutes for dishes. At this point we decided to leave, but they still charged us for 1/3 the price of the three course meal. No real apologies until I called them and told them how dissappointed I was with them. The excuse given was that we were progressing through lunch at the normal pace. My problem is that if you are open for lunch in a busy city, you should be able to get people in and out with an hour. We were progressing towards a 2 hour lunch. For a tourist that is fine, but for busy professionals, it is not acceptable. I will definitely think twice about another Barbara Lynch restaurant for lunch during work.
(1)Alan S.
I've been here twice over the years. The first time, a few years ago, was a 4 star experience. Went over the summer, on a beautiful day, and sat on one of their outdoor tables and had a great 3-course meal. I came here again a few weeks ago and the food was just "ok". The space is tight but I really enjoyed sitting at the bar and watching the chefs at work. I got the lobster bisque and the lobster roll and both were just average. A lot of people say this is the best lobster roll in the city. I couldn't disagree more. This isn't even remotely in the same league as Neptune Oyster's. B&G's is more expensive, less lobster, and less flavorful. The fries, however, are addicting. For $28, I just expected a little more from a lobster roll.
(3)Robert D.
Dined here was great!! 6 dozen oysters and another steak tartare knocked down place is so worth going. Staff was friendly and attentive.little champagne and a seafood tower goes very well on a beautiful end of summer weekend
(5)Corey L.
Went on a Saturday night, enjoyed a feast of Oysters, drinks, and dinner. Was a bit pricey (not sure it was bad for the area or type of food - I can be cheap), but it was solid food-wise, enjoyed it. Also the bar tender was cool and put up with my shit, so that's always good
(4)Kiki D.
Saw this place on "Best Food Ever" and had to check it out. I waited until my nieces came to visit from Las Vegas. Kept telling them about the Lobster Roll and one had envisioned something that looks like sushi and the other was thinking egg rolls. When it finally came to the table, we had a good laugh about that! Heaven on a bun...need I say more? The crab cake sandwich and BLT were yummy also, as were the fries. Hillary was a real sweetheart and when we were done eating, she got us on the right direction to catch the train at Back Bay. I will definitely come back here and partake of the Lobster Roll again.
(4)Tiffany Q.
My Husband and I took a friend out to dinner last night. I'm not a fan of oyster's they love them. So B&G was the winner plus we had never been there before. We were prompted seated when we arrived for our reservation. The waiter was very knowledgeable about the wines on the menu as well as the selection of oysters available. When they finished the oysters we asked the waiter to place our dinner order. I was ordering the swordfish and they were ordering the lobster roll. The waiter stopped then proceed to tell us they were out of lobster. My Husband ordered a bowl of chowder and our friend ordered the swordfish as I did. Just before our dinner came out, the waiter brought over a Chef's special appetizer (on the house). It was delicious! Our meals came out and they were delicious! We paid the tab and were on our way out when a gentlemen came to the table. He asked us how our dinner was and then said he was told be the waiter that our table was looking to order 2 lobster rolls for dinner. He was extremely apologetic that it wasn't available tonight. He then proceeded to put two gift cards on our table; one for my Husband and one for our friend. The gentlemen stated that the gift card should be more then enough to cover the cost of the lobster roll for the next time we come in because he would love to have us come back. Now that right there is good customer service. And not because we were given gift cards to come back, but because of what happened behind the scenes. The waiter brought it to the attention of the manager and they had already brought us out an appetizer. They went that extra mile to really gain new customers. We will definitely be back and not because we have gift cards because I don't eat lobster. I'll be ordering the swordfish again!
(5)Jennifer L.
LOBSTER ROLL. get it. eat it. thank me later. $27 for a sandwich sounded a bit intimidating, but the B&G LOBSTER ROLL is the best. We didn't have reservations so we sat at the bar. It was the most amazing lobster I'd ever had. The Back Bay neighborhood itself is a must see, but the B&G LOBSTER ROLL is a MUST EAT!
(5)Kyle W.
I guess I'll start with the service which reminded me of McDonalds if McDonalds had a wait staff. It was so bad I wish I would of got up and left after the hostess (waitress) was extremely rude. The atmosphere reminds me of an old diner. The inside is small and the chefs I mean kitchen staff. Sorry had to correct that because chefs have training. The kitchen staff places the food right on the counter of the bar where people are sitting. So I sat there staring at my food hoping the waitress (hostess) that was doing nothing would wander over and hand it to me. The food itself was awful. Like i could kind of tell they tried with the plate presentation but it was not good at all. Overpriced and low quality, ABSOLUTELY.
(1)Dee J.
I love this place, The wife and I always make it a habit to stop in for dinner when ever in town. The selection is unique, the service is knowledgeable and the ambiance is lots of fun. Must have reservations, the cherrystones clams, oysters and the loberter roll!
(5)Alma C.
cozy little space, good lobster roll, better chowder, very good selection of oysters, above average service.
(4)Eugene H.
I went to Boston for four days. I ate at a bunch of restaurants looking for fresh fish, lobster, and oysters. Among the restaurants (Atlantic Fish, Legal Seafoods, Barking Crab), this was our favorite. This place is small and not a special occasion restaurant but it's great for eating with one or a few friends in a casual but well serviced environment. My wife and I loved the oysters on Mondays during their $1 Happy Hour. They have the best lobster rolls. Yes, $27 is pricey but I'd do it again. We loved sitting at the bar watching the chef cook everything to order. The calamari was breaded and seasoned perfectly. If I were to do our trip again, I'd skip the other places and come back to B&G a few times!
(5)Christina N.
When you come to Boston as a tourist, your sole job is to discover the amazingness and wonder that surrounds the lobster roll. When I went to B&G for my final meal in Boston, I not only discovered the lobster roll, I reveled in amazing lobster roll glory! Head to toe, B&G is great place to dine; cute, contemporary decor, clean open kitchen and oyster bar, and a great menu. We started with a set of 5 types of east coast oysters and some fried oysters as well. Both dishes were beautifully presented and fulfilled our bivalve cravings. The lobster roll was next and was dressed to impress. Big chunks of lobster seasoned perfectly with lemon and chives sat, piled high in a soft, lightly toasted, buttered roll. Homemade pickles, coleslaw and fries completed the meal and sent me home to SF happily satisfied. The only thing that would have me happier is if I could have fit dessert in too, but alas the lobster roll was the dominant force. Maybe next time.
(4)lauren s.
We didn't get oysters, but what we did get was fantastic. Lobster bisque and fried calamari for my daughter and a Restaurant Week menu for myself: one of the best bibb lettuce salads I've ever had, and seared scallops with farro, The scallops were huge, beautifully browned and perfectly cooked. The ambiance was casual and welcoming yet lively. We sat at the bar and the bartender/waitress was friendly without being intrusive. And I always enjoy watching the kitchen dance in action.
(5)Mindy M.
Very disappointed- overpriced with small portions of food and not very tasty- sorry but I have had much better lobster rolls on the beach in Quincy for a lot less money. Also - the wine list was poor- not many choices- anyway- we will not return- Bill was 250.00 for 4 people and we left hungry!
(1)Samantha C.
I've come here three times while visiting Boston and it has been consistently amazing. The restaurant is narrow and cozy, tucked away down a flight of stairs off the street. If we weren't looking for it, I would never have known it was there! What you should get: - fresh oysters! Obviously. - fried oysters topped with tartar sauce. hot, flavorful, and delicious! - steamed mussels. the broth is the winner here. so good that it's worth drinking as a soup! - lobster roll. their most popular dish. huge chunks of fresh lobster. they don't skimp at all! - hake. perfectly crispy on the outside and flaky tender on the inside. comes with brussel sprouts topped with bacon bits. love bacon - how could you lose?! :) - wine! Skip: - the cinnamon pavlova poached pear. this was just meh. I'm sure to be back in four weeks on my next Boston trip. :)
(5)Michael H.
The food was very disappointing. I went as part of a group of 4 and we had a large platter of oysters which were decent, if oysters are fresh there really isn't too much you can do wrong here. Prior to eating anything, when we arrived, there was a couple sitting next to us (at the same table) which we didn't mind because they were very nice. We discussed dishes and both had different specials as their entrees which they recommended to us. We asked our waiter about the specials and unfortunately they were out of both so we had to choose from the menu which was also out of two items. As best I can remember the choice came down to fried claims, salmon, lobster roll or cod. How does that menu sound to you as all the options for entrees? To me it was disappointing, and looked more like the menu from a shack by the sea then a nice restaurant in the south end. We moved forward and I ordered a lobster roll which I wouldn't normally get but I figured, why not. It was nothing special just lobster in a roll as expected with a side of fries. Everyone in our group had the same basic experience. The service was good, the food was decent but lacked selection. They may have some good food but it unfortunately wasn't available when I was there...
(2)Colleen W.
I had a fantastic meal here alone at the bar...and I only had to 90 minutes for the spot. This place is tiny! Make reservations. I started with some of the best oysters I've ever had. Trust the servers here, they make great selections. I asked for an East coast trio and she selected a Rocky Bay from PEI, a Pemaquid from Maine, and an Island Creek from Massachussetts. They were fresh, silky, briny delights on a half-shell. I could have, and maybe should have, just ordered a dozen and called it a night. However, the lobster roll was calling my name. Being from the Pacific Northwest, I haven't had a true lobster roll before. I'm going to assume that this was the high end real deal. It had beautiful chunks of succulent lobster in it with light dressing on a delicious roll. It comes with some crispy fries, sweet pickles and a light cole slaw. If you're in Boston looking for this classic - indulge here. I'd give this place 5 stars but the wait for a seat was incredible and they short poured my wine (by the glass) which was outrageously priced. My bill was $75, including tip, which is a little steep for 3 oysters and a lobster roll...but I have no regrets.
(4)Ryan S.
Seafood with an Italian flair, how can you go wrong? Great pasta dishes and fresh seafood. Wonderful appetizers with friendly servers. I like the upscale but trendy environment and it is clean and nice. Oh, and do not pass up on their specialty, oysters.
(4)Lynn C.
I would actually give it 4.5 stars rather than 5, but I'm going to round down for some slight mishaps. My boyfriend and I went with a friend of ours and his date (so a double-date). The food: We started with oysters but I didn't have any because I don't like them. My boyfriend who generally does not eat oysters said that they were so good he's developed a taste for oysters. Admittedly I tried one of the oyster sauce (garlic lemon buttery flavour) and it was really good. I tried to RW menu and chose the Lobster Bisque, Seafood Gnocchi, and Vanilla Panna Cotta. The Lobster Bisque was bursting with flavour, possibly the BEST lobster bisque I've ever had. The Gnocchi was very tasty as well and the dessert was delectable! The only thing was the portions are extremely tiny. Three spoonsfuls of the bisque, literally a total of five tiny gnocchi in there, and a small-size panna cotta. Good thing I had two glasses wine to fill me up. My boyfriend had the roasted mussels, which was actually less appetizing. The menu said bruschetta was in the dish, but it was a mountain full of mussels, three pieces of toasted french bread, and a lot of tomatoes. The flavour was good, but that should not have been an entree. I helped him out with the mussel but we still couldn't finish it. The service and the wine: Our server was really friendly and really helpful. Our friends wanted white wine but I don't really like whites because they tend to be pretty dry. I told our server this and she recommended a full-bodied german reisling that was sweet and smooth. When we wanted a second bottle, she brought over a lighter reisling that you can get by the glass that was lighter and fruitier so we can try to see if we like it, we got that too! After dinner, we asked our server we can continue to leave our friend's car with the valet at B&G and she said there was no problem. When we got back to B&G, the valet was missing. We went back in the restaurant to ask and our server came outside and started talking to all the valet services around angrily to get our car back. She was wonderful! I'd definitely go back for another visit!
(4)George S.
Fantastic oysters and creative fish dishes. Staff was attentive. Pricey but well worth it. Might upgrade to 5 stars if they repeat on my next visit.
(4)Tyson F.
You can't go wrong with a Barbara Lynch restaurant, and B&G Oysters is probably the best place to grab oysters and fresh seafood in the South End. As a matter of fact, I popped my oyster cherry here, and have stopped back quite a few times ever since. My only 2 gripes would be prices and a very small draft beer selection (2 draft beer choices, to be exact). But you definitely get what you pay for. The oyster selection is fantastic, and the freshness couldn't get any better. Absolutely delicious. I usually order the lobster roll, which is insanely priced considering it's size, but the flavor is so unbelievably good that I simply can't resist. If you find yourself craving seafood or oysters in the South End, this is the place to be.
(5)Shaina P.
Perhaps I should open a new review specifically for the Oyster Invitational, but not sure... I feel that we all got a great sense for the fun and freshness that is B&G oysters today. B&G prides itself with seafood dishes and certainly takes note of seasonal greats. It's close quarters create a breezy oceanic aura, much like being in a ship, and its rear patio provides even more room to breathe. From 12-8 today, neighbors, executive chefs, friends, and foodies alike, corralled in the tiny B&G interior and swamped the exterior to celebrate 5 years of the Patio. It cost $45. That is $45 of well worth it delicious oyster overload PLUS some of B&G's signature dishes (tastes). 12:00 pm casual oytster devouring 4:00 pm dance party music rockin 7:10 pm the memorable speech Here, I will record my favorite bivalves. And here I may admit that maybe I should start a new review because I don't believe B&G serves these oysters all the time... Island Creek of Duxbury, MA (the B&G staple oyster) -- medium size, briny, and sweet Matunuk of Rhode Island -- medium, ultra sweet, less brine, awesome Cotuit Oyster Co. -- meaty, sweet, mild brine, my fave, great for chewers Gigamoto Oysters from Washington; Pemaquid, ME, oysters; Pebble Beach; and of course those big azz oysters as big as my hand! Arrrrmmmmm......yum But as for the specialties, we saw a lot a bit of the lobster roll -- lightly dressed, hint of citrus; fried calamaris and oysters; oyster fritters; fries. And the hit of the day consisted of dishes created by local chefs, such as that of Louis (Sel de la Terre -- chilled oyster ceviche? i probably butchered that description). I'm so full I feel drunk; or maybe I drank so much that I truly am drunk... and therefore full. Quote of the night by Ms. Lynch: "You guys fuc*in devoured the sh!t out of the oysters tonight." And yes, Barbara, we did. And I will happily return to devour more of the goodness and fun that was B&G.
(5)Russ L.
Maybe it was the romantic birthday lunch that explains this rating. One Friday afternoon on my birthday, we cut out early for a late lynch: oysters and proseco. What a meal! We sat at the bar. The oysters we perfect, the wine was perfect, the service was perfect. If you want a nice special occasion, this is the place.
(5)Anna T.
This place is great and if I had more money, I would be here a lot more! I had a few Blue Point oysters here and the presentation was great, but the taste of the oysters and the condiments offered were even better! The place is pretty small but totally open, you can see the kitchen from anywhere you sit since it is directly behind the open bar, you can see your food being made from any place in the restaurant, which means you know it's good since they have nothing to hide! The prices are steep but that is what you get for quality seafood in the northeast, especially in a city, so in my opinion it is worth it! The place is clean and fairly quiet but not so quiet you feel that you need to whisper. Great place, will definitely go back here!
(4)Brady B.
Pretentious? Check. Overpriced? Check. Nice location in the once hip and now sterile South End? Check. Ok, now the review. Nice sunken patio area in the back of the restaurant that is quite private. The oysters are delicious and the food is adequate. This is a Barbara Lynch restaurant, period. I'm not putting Ms Lynch down whatsoever. She's an excellent chef that leaves an impression no doubt. The problem I have is like Todd English and many others in the league, is that once you open one amazing restaurant, then two, then three or four more, the love in the food is gone. It's like Paula Deen. She opened The Lady And Sons in Savannah to a smashing success years ago. She then went on to become a household name, an entrepreneur, a celebrity as well as a multimillionaire. Look up the reviews for The Lady And Sons nowadays and it's gone to hell seeing as she has barely any involvement in it anymore. Get my point? B&G is good, not great.
(3)Picky B.
Lovely dining setting. The outdoor back patio is pretty and relaxed. The hosts were very friendly and accommodating, taking our number down for the 30-45 min wait and sending us across the street to their sister restaurant, the Butcher Shop for a drink. Food was solid. We shared 24 oysters, each 3 oysters from a different location. Yumm. The asparagus with poached egg appetizer was somewhat disappointing. Lobster roll and lobster orechiette were very good.
(4)Qasim R.
A cozy little place, with a great oyster selection as the name suggests. The lobster roll as evidenced by the many other reviews is simply amazing, although I felt it was a bit overpriced. The clam chowder and beet salads were pretty good as well. Oysters were probably the star of the meal. We left the selection of them to the waitress and I must say she selected very well. They were simple amazing and the only reason why I went back there few times. The service is excellent and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. The tables are placed pretty close together so you chat up the ppl at the next table, an affair I always enjoy in certain places. Considering the service, environment and the oysters, I would be definitely heading back there soon.
(4)Chantelle A.
I AM A FANNNNN! B&G Oysters was amazing. During a trip to Boston, we realized it was Boston Restaurant Week! Lucky us! We are huge fans of DC Restaurant Week so we decided to take advantage of the deal while on vacation! We made lunch reservations about a week prior to our trip...but, when I arrived the restaurant exceeded my expectations! We walked to B&G, through Blackstone Square....so by the time we arrived, I was hungryyyy! When we arrived, I expected a little hole in the wall oyster bar but, noooooo this place was like The Secret Garden! The outdoor stonewalled patio was GORGEOUS....you had all the perks of being outdoors but, it was so...intimate. Our waitress was an amazing woman...who was very patient as we drooled over the limited but lovely menu. We stated off with a couple of beers and bread with olive oil....NICE right?? Of course, we couldn't resist the raw oyster menu. The oyster menu offered oysters from all over New England and Canada...and they were fresh and tasty...of course. Since it was restaurant week, we each had 3 courses... Me-Lobster Beignets Him-Steamed Mussels in this amazing broth Me-Massachusetts Blue Cod with mushrooms Him-Fried Oyster Sandwich with French Fries Me-Yogurt Ice Cream with melon and black pepper syrup Him-Chocolate Tart with Cherry Compote Each course was amazing...but, the yogurt ice cream with melon and black pepper syrup was out of this world! I've never tasted anything like it....and I want more :( Psssst...anyway I can get that recipe??? Everything about B&G Oysters was perfect...except for the spiral stairs leading to the bathroom...1 more beer and I would have tumbled down :)
(5)Brian D.
There may be nothing quite as disgusting and or as simple and perfect as slamming a dozen or so cold, raw oysters down one's gullet. I can see why sea otters have spent so much time learning to smash these little buggers apart. B and G has an excellent array of different oysters from all over the country, Massachusetts, Virginia, Oregon, etc. This makes me happy and ready to pony up to the raw bar as often as I can. The great thing about raw oysters is that it is very much a love it or leave it obsession. You won't need to sit next too many people (at the actual raw bar) who are rolling their eyes and making choking sounds as they try to force down that first ever raw oyster. Nope. Those folks are probably not going to wander in, fresh off the train from someplace like Worcester where nobody has ever, ever, ever had a raw oyster before. Nope. Bonus, short but excellent wine list. Bonus, perfect french fries. Add to any oyster order for mouth bliss. Bonus, if you go here on Saint Patrick's day you will not need to worry about hordes of drunken hooligans spilling beer on your favorite sweater. That's usually what I worry about. Bonus, it's a bit pricey (if you are a cheap ass like me) so when you leave stuffed and happy you really feel like you got your moneys worth.
(4)Ross H.
B&G is delicious. I went with my parents and got the Lobster Roll. Pretty pricy but the seafood is very fresh. Props to Barbara Lynch.
(4)Jason B.
B & G Oysters set their rifle sights on bivalves, and hit them dead on. Nailed them. I've had better oysters, but only ones I pulled out of the sea myself. Short of that experience, you're not going to find fresher in Boston. Our reservations were for 6:30 on Saturday night, and we were a bit early, but they seated us quickly, though alas, not in the patio room. We had a nice view of the open kitchen. B &G serves only beer and wine, and the night that we were there, there were some problems with their taps, so no draft beer. No matter, they stock a great Maine beer, Peak Organic Pale Ale. Their wine list is superb, and sports the usual hideous markup. The Peak Pale Ale was a perfect pairing with the fresh, delicious, Massachusetts oysters, which are served in the half-shell with broth, cocktail sauce and horseradish, all of which should be eschewed so as to experience the real flavor of the ocean which these beauties sport. As an appetizer we tried the Maine Crab Beignet, which was superb. Light, crispy breading covered a fluffy, savory interior, which, though not particularly redolent of crabmeat, had a wonderful, smoky-fennel taste. I've eaten mussels all over New England, and as with the oysters, I've never had better than their Maine Rope-Grown Mussels. A HUGE mound of perfectly steamed mussels in a decadent, buttery broth is served with homemade sausage (no casing), onions, chunks of roasted garlic, and three big-ass pieces of grilled, buttery crostini. Needless to say, I devoured this mound of goodness with aplomb. The salmon was an ordinary, but nicely prepared piece of fish. The large-grain Israeli couscous is a great compliment, and the whole dish pairs most excellent well with a Verdelho. Service was expert and swift, competent and friendly. The menu is priced well for the level of quality of the preparation and the ingredients. The atmosphere of the restaurant is the only real complaint - the open kitchen is nice, but not for everyone - the limited number of tables and the small size of the house puts everyone within kissing distance of the fire. A table out on the patio would be perfect on a nice evening, but call a couple of weeks ahead if you want one, or be prepared for a long wait. Diners can feel comfortable dressing casual to business-casual. It's a great dining spot in the South End, and worth the trip from any part of town.
(4)Dave F.
We stopped in on a weekend afternoon to taste test some oysters. We ordered the Little Island (Bagaduce, ME), the Rhode Island wild (Narrangasett Bay), the Blue Points (Great South Bay, NY) which were our favorites. We also had the Salutation, Cotuit and Marionpoint. Once our taste buds were fired up I had a BLT (alas no lobster) and my wife had the salade Nicoise with nice presentation of seared tuna on top. These were good, but the oysters really made the meal.
(4)Josephine R.
One of my fave restaurants in Boston. The food is just unreal. The oysters are so great and fresh and the waiters are so knowledgeable. The lobster roll is to die for. Yeah it's a little expensive but hello it's Boston what do you expect? Overall totally worth every penny. Love to indulge about once a month.
(5)Jack T.
Knew it to be pricy but in my humble opinion I saw no value. Like the book "The Emperor's new clothes" no one wants to admit that they are getting ripped off, each one thinking that they are among the culinary elite for choosing to dine there. Best clam chowder? Who are you kidding. Clams were too tough to chew, base was over prepared. $28 dollar lobster roll was no big thrill either. I'd say Kelly's could have served a better one. Service.....for what I paid for the meal you would not think I would have to flag someone down each time to fill a water or wine glass. All sweet when taking the sale, no back up or follow through. Bill was over $400 for four diners. Oh the French fries were awesome and the serving size descent. Hate to think I would spend that much again to enjoy fries. Fool we once shame on you. Full me twice shame on me.
(1)R G.
I've always heard good things about B & G Oysters but had never been. So, when the bf and I were in the area after a day a strolling in the sun, I thought we might stop in. We entered the gate and as we approached a table by the entrance, a waitress comes walking by giving us an accusatory and rather hostile look. "Mind if we take a look at the menu?" the bf asked. "Please do! Let us know if you have any questions!" was not the reply we received. Not even, "Sure, they're right here." No. The response we received, with a blatant eye roll and enough attitude to make a 15-year-old mean girl quake in her cheer uniform, was "That's what they're there for," as she practically shoved past us. There's just no excuse for that. Honestly, I've never had any server speak to me with such obvious disdain. I might expect it at a McDonalds, but not here. Perhaps it's unfair to judge a restaurant on a brief encounter with one employee, but it killed any desire I had to spend my money there.
(1)Ahmad A.
First of all the fried oysters are to die for, their tartar sauce is yummy! I had the salmon ( which I ordered well done) it was delicious with a lovely crispy skin. My wife had the lobster tail which she loved. The chocolate torte with mascarpone was amazing , perfection portion for two . The service was amazing, our waiter was very helpful and professional. All in all it was an amazing valentine with great food !
(5)Jimmy N.
Firstly, let me just preface this by saying this place is really pricey. Seafood in general is pricey, and oyster bars in general are pricey, but this place is a fancy oyster bar and extra pricey. That said, cheap ol' me is still giving this 4 stars. Normally I would be raging and deducting stars, but for some reason B&G's outrageous prices don't make me angry. It's a simple unpretentious pricey oyster bar, and it's patrons are probably by and large simple unpretentious people with money who love oysters. I would like to think I'm simple and unpretentious and love oysters and still working on the money part. When I have more money (obviously much later on in life), I will come back to B&G with a nice girl and treat her to some nice oysters at this simple and unpretentious place. And then I will give it 5 stars instead of 4 stars if it keeps the quality of food up. Oh, I had a lobster roll. It was good. LOTS of lobster and minimal amount of mayo, which is how it's supposed to be. Both my friend and I, both cheap poor simple souls, had no complaints forking over the 27$ or so for the treat. Go if you have money. Go if you don't have money if you want, but plan to spend money. Take it for what it is, and what it is is sorta pricey.
(4)Jaime Patricio M.
I discovered B&G primarily because of the many accolades of having one of the best lobster rolls in Boston. I am a big fan of lobster rolls and simply had to have a B&G lobster roll. This lobster roll was a size that I never get to enjoy--large--each bite was splendid sweet and not sloshed in mayonnaise. The bread was air light and complement the roll completely. The fries were double fried and I kept as the server what potatoes were utilized--she said russet--but I think they may have been Kennebec - perfect consistency, flavor with a dash of sweetness. The server was incredibly friendly and accommodating and worked very hard to making sure the table had everything we needed. I was impressed when one dinner guest had an allergy to some ingredients and the way it was handled was with absolute patience and professionalism. We ate outside but prefer eating inside--much more ambiance. A wonderful Barbara Lynch dining experience.
(5)Hieu H.
Ready for a $27 dollar lobster roll? Went here for the first time for restaurant week, and just had to have an "authentic" Boston experience by eating a lobster roll. For 27bucks, it was all lobster and no filler lightly dressed in mayonnaise.
(4)Jasmine K.
Beautiful restaurant with fresh oysters and delicious salads. The clam chowder was too spicy for my taste but appreciated the originality of it. The thing that I loved about this place is we sat at the kitchen and watched them chuck the oysters for us and they were so fresh.
(4)Roma o.
Neptune oysters was too busy so we gave it a shot. We sat at the bar because all tables were booked and bar was empty. Place is very clean. Atmosphere was nice. The staff was friendly, helpful, polite and very professional. Food was cooked fast and we saw the whole process. Oysters were good. Lobster sandwiches were very good too. We had a very pleasant experience.
(5)Maurice J.
I'm a regular at this favourite restaurant. However, last night at 6.30 went over with a business associate who had an 8.30pm flight. Hoped to have a quick dinner. Numerous single seats were available at the counter , as well as 2 together and numerous tables for 2. We were NOT accommodated....the hostess was inflexible and showed little interest in trying to move people ( rather than allowing single seats open ), nor to give us the 2 seats together. Other tables were supposedly reserved. Her attitude was so indifferent and off-putting, we left....called Oishi and had an amazing dinner...spending a fortune ( not far from 300 dollars).. I called to speak to the manager....her voicemail said she would be away until March 5 or 6.....today is January 31st ??? Called back and got to speak with her a half hour later. To be honest, this was the catalyst to write this review....she seemed about as enthusiastic as the hostess last night....an apology offered and that's it. No attempt to ask for my name or number ( she said she does not often check voicemails ?? ). I do not need free meals or anything else, but some sort of sincere interest would have been welcomed. Guess I may have to go elsewhere for my oysters from now on, even though I live 2 streets away.
(1)John M.
Lamest lobster roll in town. Looked like something suitable for an afternoon tea party not a place with "oyster" in the name. It was tiny (and $29 v $25 at Neptune) and lobster was water logged (no mayo). Lobster was diced into little scraps and the scallion-like taste(?) killed any flavor the lobster may have had. On the plus side, service was good, oysters were tasty (need more detail on the shellfish menu) and wine selection a plus. Fries were terrific.
(2)Mike C.
The place is small and quaint. a good date place perhaps. There were only 2-4 options for oysters on this particular day and their fried clams entree (which we shared) was rather uninspiring unless you want alot of french fries with a side of fried batter with a hint of clams. we had a few oysters and my 2nd one tasted very salt watery and the third fishy....needless to say, i didnt eat anymore of them....didnt feel like putting my digestive system through 8 hours of unwanted and uncontrollable body excretions... customer service is also not the greatest...they're not rude, they're just....uhhh...kind of unfriendly. also, the bathrooms are down a very steep and small spiral staircase. if you're coming with older folks who have trouble with stairs, this is NOT the place to go. would recommend ICOB or neptunes instead.
(1)Jake L.
An old favorite of mine when I used to live in the S End. Simply put, you will not regret the decision to dine here. Get a seat in the back patio if possible. The oysters are always the finest available, and the preparation of all of the items is always top rate. Lunch today was no exception!
(5)Liv N.
The BEST Oyster restaurant I've ever been to! Outstanding! Oysters are fresher than FRESH, and so delicious. You can easily get carried away and eat dozens and dozens...great variety, and their lobster BLT is also to die for. We went for my Dad's 60th and easily ordered over 100 oysters... none were left, we were addicted! Honestly, this place and Neptunes -- cant beat 'em.
(5)Michael K.
I would have given it 5 stars if it weren't for the lack of attentive service. Food was excellent and presentation was wonderful. Waiter and bus-girl only came by sporadically to refill drinks.
(3)Jeff M.
I've been here three times. Once for lunch last summer. Once for lunch this summer. And once for dinner this year. Lobster roll was much better last year than this year. This is a great neighborhood restaurant. But for how overly simple everything is cooked it cost way too much . Skate, season, olive oil, hot pan, butter, baste with baby vegtables isn't to hard to cook well - no sauces or interesting sides. If B&G brought down their prices I'd give it 4 stars. (For example, four diver scallops at $25)
(3)Ave H.
I chose B & G's for my 24th birthday dinner because I have heard so many good things about it both on yelp and in general. I was not disappointed! We had a reservation for four at 6:45 but we ended up arriving half an hour early - we had expected a wait but were seated right away. This place is quite tiny but organized well for the space. Only complaint about our table is that it is connected to the table next to us so there was very little sense of privacy. We (of course) started off by ordered raw oysters. They have the oyster bar set up a la carte where you can order as few or as many of each as you would like. On this occasion they had about 11 or 12 different oysters (organized by location) I had one of each of the top 5 (the ones located closest to us). My favorite by far was the one for Beavertail, RI. One of my dining companions had the crab salad which was a very interesting interpretation - the lettuce - which was shredded to appear kind of like thick noodles - was coated in a green dressing with crab meat, tomato, avocado, and pineapple tossed in. Another of my dining companions had the fried oysters which were presented very nicely and looked delicious. For my entree I (along with another one of my dining companions) had the lobster roll. I felt compelled to try this because it has been raved about not only on yelp, but on several blogs and (apparently) a TV show. It was pricey at $27 but certainly worth it. The lobster was seasoned perfectly and not overwhelmed by mayo or seasoning. The fries were delicious and crispy. The coleslaw was great and very refreshing, and the pickles were bread and butter pickles - yum my favorite! The only reason I didn't rate this 5 stars is because of their incredibly overpriced wine list. There is literally only one option for a SOMEWHAT affordable bottle. I expect wine to be up charged.. but I also believe there should be at least a few options for those of us not willing to spend $80+ on a bottle.
(4)Pamela S.
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Amazing selection of oysters. It was fun to compare the flavors and textures of each. I'm always amazed how different oysters taste. We had only East Coast varieties since we live in the West and have more access to those. Our server was very friendly and knowlegeable without being overly talkative. Even our 10-year-old joined in on the oyster tasting and of course loved the one called Mermaid. They were oh so sweet and briny and it was like tasting the ocean. On to the lobster roll... The bun was buttery and melted in your mouth like a cross between a croissant and custardy french toast. The lobster was sweet and soft, not chewy at all. It had a minimum of dressing (I'm not sure they even use any mayo on it) so that the lobster flavor was the highlight, with just a little celery and fresh herbs for texture. I only wish the lobster roll was bigger. My daughter had the mac & cheese, which was super creamy and rich, made with parmesan, so it had a little tang. We sat on the patio, which was much nicer than the very noisy inside of the restaurant. I would recommend making a reservation because they sat us right away and there were lots of people waiting for tables throughout our meal.
(4)Jack L.
My first 2-star! The interior is beautiful with the marble countertops and I loved sitting at the bar; however, the lobster roll is 1) served cold (yuck) and 2) nowhere on par with Neptune Oyster. Delicious, fresh selection of oysters from around the nation and great service. I really wish I could give it a 4 but I've been spoiled by Neptune and it can never compare.
(2)Jared S.
Might as well add my 4 stars. I had the prixe fix tasting menu for NYE and enjoyed it. Cute little space with attentive and friendly servers and very high quality seafood. Some notes: No liquor, just beer and wine :-( I really wanted a martini. We were unfortunately seated at the table in the right-hand corner adjacent to the entrance...DIRECTLY in front of the AC. Cold....literally. Server gave great suggestions for oysters from the 12 different varieties when I told him what I normally look for. Hamachi crudo was divine. The remaining dishes weren't perfect but still great. Both the halibut and the scallop were a tad overcooked. And I believe it was the halibut that was served with a saffron sauce that was just way too saffron-y, it smelled and tasted a little like bleach. But used sparingly, it did complement the fish well. I'm sure I'll be back.
(4)Mike D.
Visiting from out of town and decided to try this smart, trendy place. Having a dynamic choice for oysters is exceptional but as they are both fresh and tasty is spectacular. Wonderful wine list, great food choices, tremendous service...what else can you ask for in life?? Even returned for oysters this afternoon....bravo and well worth the price.
(5)Nate C.
It boils down to the fact that this restaurant is okay for a couple going out for a quick bite. Anymore than 3 people and you're asking for trouble. Instead of posting a 5-page long rant, this is my boiled down opinion: 1) The service is atrocious. The hostesses were too snarky to at least try and be accommodating for our large party (it was my birthday, and we called to reserve a table days in advance.) Several of the waiters seemed to not know what they were doing, and were very stubborn and rude in their attitude towards our group. 2) Everything took too long. We had a 9PM reservation and didn't sit until 9:30. The waitress didn't take our drink orders until 10. Our food sat waiting to be served to us from the kitchen for at least 5-10 minutes just getting cold. 3) The food wasn't up to par with its price tag. I have no problem whatsoever spending 25-30 bucks for a medium-sized portion of mussels, except that ours were way undercooked (many of them were barely open/ nearly impossible to remove from the shell.) 4) When we tried to mention any of these problems, every staff member we dealt with was either dismissive, unattentive, or just plain rude. We had a party of 9 people, and you could have easily made 400-500 dollars. But because of your horrible attitude and horrible service, you got half that, a bad yelp review, and never again will I think about recommending this place.
(1)Eva B.
We had the best lobster roll in Boston. It took a while to have our table ready but the service was great,the oysters were delicious and the hole experience was very good.we will highly recommended .
(5)Ben K.
Wow what an awesome spot. The decor is clean and simple. The layout is open and if the place is not crowded, it feels very nice to be inside, highlighted by sitting at the white marble raised bar, where you have a fantastic view of the chefs who are in the kitchen right in front of you. This lends itself to a very enjoyable process of watching your food being prepared. The oysters, sitting fresh on a bed of crushed ice are shucked in front of you, and are delicious. They had about 10 different kinds when I was in, but the Moonstone from Rhode Island were my favorite. Delicate and simple flavor. Then I had the yellowfin tuna club sandwich. This was most likely the best club sandwich I've ever had. Rich, sushi grade tuna, sliced avocado and a light tasty aioli on the top level. A large piece of crunchy romaine and tomato slice on the bottom level. All between three slices of buttery toasty brioche. I LOVE THIS SANDWICH. They serve it with some wonderfully fresh crunchy frites tossed in parsley and with a nicely shaped mound of bread & butter pickle slices and cole slaw. I could literally eat this sandwich every day for the next month.
(5)Melanie D.
From the moment we walked in, sans reservations, we were treated like royalty. The restaurant layout is tight but intimate. We were offered a beverage and enjoyed our wait time. The oysters our waiter selected for us were divine and our entrees (lobster roll and catfish) were delish. Honestly, I would pass on the catfish in the future, but the service was so good, I had to give 5 stars.
(5)Snuffles B.
I ate here for lunch and Neptune Oyster for dinner (yeah, you saw that right) and expected B&G to be blown out of the water, especially since No 9 didn't wow me - but I was wrong. My bad. First off, this place has one of the best outdoor patios in Boston. You might get a bit of a sunburn, but its worth it to eat in this little city oasis. The interior is cozy and has a cool vibe. The service is solid. Second, the food is tasty (and heart attack inducing): - Decent bread and good EVOO - Fried oysters - The best ones I've had in recent memory, juicy, beautifully presented, some tasty aioli. Get this. - Fried clams - Similarly yummy. Fries are solid too. - Yellowfin tuna club - A good tuna tartar, on what seems like 3 pieces of butter that has some bread in it, avocado and crispy bacon. A unique and tasty sandwich, I prefer it w/o the slightly overpowering bacon and wished it were less greasy, but its pretty damn good. - Broccoli rabe - A good, much needed contrast to the lipid-fest. My only minor gripes: - Out of lobster at 12PM? No bueno. - Battleship-style cramped spiral stairwell to get to bathroom. - Insane South End parking situation - Talk about overpriced - $40/person for lunch? Don't get me wrong, whining aside, this place exceeded expectations, and will give me a coronary for sure.
(4)Lucas H.
We came here on one of our last nights of vacation, it's a little pricey but I'm all about quality when it comes to food and I got just that. The wine was great, the oysters were fresh and the entree was perfect. We chatted with the locals and Tara are waitress was phenomenal, thank you so much for giving us such great information on everything that is Boston. We plan to move to this city next year and B& G will be a regular place for us!
(5)A G.
The restaurant is tiny and has an open-air kitchen. I'd try to sit at the bar next time to watch the chefs in action. Ladies put your heels away; the restroom is at the bottom of a tiny spiral staircase. Onto the food.... We love oysters and we tried a dozen from East Coast spots our waitress recommended. Overall - not impressed. Most were very briny. Maybe I'm biased towards the West Coast /Australian rock oysters I grew up on, but next time I'd steer towards the sweeter tasting W.C. oysters. The "crab" salad to start was so disappointing. I don't want to have to pick through the salad to find the crab meat. Really just an expensive green salad. My lobster roll was tasty, as was the bread it was sandwiched in, but the density of the bread totally overwhelmed the lobster meat. I ended up pushing the roll to the side. I left thinking about the equally tasty lobster roll at Alive & Kicking Lobster that is 1/2 the price. First round of calamari was raw. We asked that it go back in the fryer for just a bit longer. Worried it was going to be rubbery, but it came back perfect. Kitchen was slammed with a large group's order. Although we were seated before them, our entrees took about 80 minutes to arrive. Soooo hungry at that point. Great calamari (the 2nd time around) isn't enough to bring me back.
(3)Lindsey G.
Went to dinner there with friends who were in town. We didn't have reservations and the place was packed but the menu looked amazing and they had a wonderful outdoor patio. We put in our names and they said about 30-45 minutes. They took our phone number so we could walk around since it was beautiful out, instead of having to wait around to be called. Such a great idea! We were called within 15 minutes, a table had opened up on their garden patio, perfect! Dinner was wonderful, lobster roll was amazing as everyone has been saying on here. Trust me, my friend and I split it so we could also get the shrimp cocktail. As much as the cocktail was great, I wish I had the roll to myself! We also had the oysters and they had a wonderful selection and were great. Our service was wonderful, the patio was beautiful, and I cannot wait to go back.
(5)Mikki N.
We were here last night after a girls night out event and I was not impressed. I ordered the Jonah Crab Salad and to be honest... it wasn't that great. It was a little on the bland side and the salad was somewhat soggy. I didn't get that crunch I was looking for. We also ordered the calamari and that was a bit on the soft. calamari should be crisp, no? The Scottish Salmon was just okay. The best thing about the night were the fries included in the Lobster roll. That we devoured in minutes. I really like the way the kitchen is displayed tho. You're able to see the chefs cooking, the service cleaning, and the cleanliness of the place.
(3)Jenessa C.
One of the best parts of this place is the outdoor patio - you'll love the textures they've incorporated into the decor outside. I noticed large heaters, so I suspect you can eat outside in the winter too. We went here for a snack of oyster & champagne tasting. We also ate the deviled eggs, which made for an excellent snack. to share.
(4)Don J.
Really don't understand why people rate this place so highly. It's an average restaurant that is exceptonally small with an equally small menu. I tried to book an 8 o'clock reservation on open table but it seems that they block out from 7.30-9.00 for online bookings as they didn't accept the reservation. When we did go there the restaurant was pretty much half full with nobody walking in after us at 7.15. A great way to make sure your restaurant doesn't make as much money as it should do. I tried one of all their oysters that they had for that evening and they were very good and the highlight of the evening. Nicely presented and very fresh.We shared the calimari which was tasty with a very good aoili with it. Problem with calimari is that even if it gets slightly cold it starts to become rubbery which happened with the last few bites on our plate. I had the blue Cod for my main and while the fish was cooked perfectly there was too much sauce and other items on the dish that just didn't match the cod. I never understand why chefs mess with good quality fish with dumping so many ingredients on top of it. We also had a lobster roll which was ok but not better than anything else we had in Boston. Dessert options were poor so we left after the main course, really average restaurant that I won't go back to when in Boston next.
(3)Jungmin L.
B&G is extremely over-rated. The quality of most of the ingredients is ok, but from grilled romaine tuna nicoise salad to fries, there is way too much grease and horrific underseasoning. I can't believe the amount of oil that was dripping from the grilled romaine leaves, and how much salt and pepper I had to add to that dish. The lobster roll is also a horrific disappointment. There's tiny curls of lobster and it tasted too fishy to be pleasant. I love the sweet, chewy/springy, ocean brininess of lobster and I love seafood for being seafood, but the tiny 28-dollar bun contained some lobster meat that simply did not justify the price. I would say it deserves a 15-dollar price tag. The bun itself isn't that great either - no buttery, brioche here. The seasoning was also very bland for the lobster roll...and the pickles are way too sweet. Why eat a bad lobster roll at B&G when you can get fantastic, succulent, briny, pleasant, sweet, fresh lobster roll at Neptune? The only thing that tasted good was the lobster BLT. If it were a mid-price establishment with bad food, I would give it two stars but because of the high prices the restaurant is only worth a star (if even).
(1)Bridget M.
What a cool little spot this is! I visited Boston Memorial Day weekend with my boyfriend at the time and he did some extensive restaurant research beforehand. We were well prepared and made reservations here ahead of time. Thank god we did because I don't think I have ever eaten in a smaller restaurant (might have been waiting till 11pm to get a table)! They have a very small patio and a very narrow dining area. We got a prime table against the wall with a good view of the oyster schucking behind the open bar. It definitely has a hip vibe but is not the least bit pretentious. Neither of us are real oyster connaisseurs so we got a sampler platter, per our server's suggestion. It was fun tasting oysters from different parts of the country and comparing the differences (I learned I def prefer east coast oysters). Washing down our big platter of oysters with some nice refreshing white wine, we were both in heaven. We heard all about the lobster rolls in Boston so we knew this was the place to try them. So simple, yet so perfect. It was a party in my mouth, I could have eaten 5 more! I highly reccomend this place to anyone who lives in Boston or to anyone visiting the area! (Don't forget your reservations!)
(5)Rose D.
Food was ok but service sucked!! Server was rude and didn't want to be bothered by our questions. Word to the wise....you make a living on tips so here's a tip honey "be nice!". Snobs irritate me!
(2)Scott F.
I went to this restaurant and payed $30 for the swordfish. I have never, in 30 years of eating in a restaurant, received a smaller portion size. Here were the dimensions of the fish in inches- 1x1x1. So an inch long, an inch wide and an inch thick...for $30. Visualize about the size of a big sea scallop, that's it. No, this was not a lunch portion. Imagine going to the fish store and ordering 1/10 of a lb of swordfish. Say it costs $15 per lb, wholesale $10. So they served me a piece of fish that cost them a dollar for $30. It must be nice having nearly 3000% profit margins. It was completely insulting and unacceptable. I'm disappointed at myself for not turning the fish back. But I just decided that this would be a more fitting punishment for them- costing them hopefully more business in the future for the aggravation they put me through. The meal was tasty but as I said was so small that it couldn't compensate for the price. I really deserve a refund or an apology. But what I'd like even more than that is for companies like these to serve a quality product with reasonable portion sizes at a reasonable price. It's called doing business with grace and integrity... something this company obviously knows nothing about.
(1)William M.
I had a great time at B&G. My server, Nicki, was very friendly and helpful. It was busy yet she never failed to be extremely attentive. She was also very knowledgeable (I heard her answering questions for the gentlemen next to me. Never an "um...," always an answer). The food was great, as I suspected, but the service really made this meal memorable.
(5)Laura R.
If I could only describe my experience here in one word? "Impeccable." I went for lunch with the whole family, which can sometimes prove to be a challenge. 1 picky eater, 1 of the most indecisive people I know, and me (an impatient wine guzzler) doesn't always make for a pleasant meal. Our waitress was just lovely from the get go. Sweet, knowledgeable, candid-- but also low key. We started with wine-- a Merkelberg I think it was? All I remember was that it was by 2 attractive brothers (so said the waitress). It may have been a Gruner Veltliner but again, I could be wrong. I have to stop boozing so hard at lunch. What I do remember was that it paired perfectly with everything, was fruity, smooth and fresh. After that we ordered a few fresh oysters, which I did not partake in, the fried oysters and fried calamari-- both insanely good and cooked perfectly. For our meals we had a lobster roll, a lobster BLT, red snapper and I got the butter poached lobster tail. I'm mad about this. You know why? I don't think I'll find a lobster tail that good for a really, really long time-- unless I make the trip up to Boston just for some tail (ha ha). It's going to haunt my dreams. Sweet, buttery and sitting on a bed of fennel (one of my favorite vegetables) it was both light and rich at the same time. I tried a bite of everything, even after I gorged on the clams they sent over gratis (equally amazing), and each dish was phenomenal-- even the fries were awesome! I almost felt bad that this was our first meal of the weekend, I knew nothing else would really compare.
(5)Caroline C.
We came here for lunch while visiting Boston and on our walk to the restaurant we ran into Kristen Kish the Top Chef season 10 winner now at Menton. The food was excellent but I have to deduct a star for the unbearably slow service. It was a weekday lunch but we didn't get any love . My husband and I split a dozen oyster, a bowl of clam chowder and the lobster BLT. Out of all the chowders we sampled on our NE trip this version was by far my favorite. The lobster blt was a hit with me but my husband found the aoili too lemony for his liking. if we ever make it back to Boston I'd love to try another restaurant in the Barbara Lynch group.
(4)Doug R.
We visited B & G Oysters for a late lunch. I was able to make reservations electronically via my iPhone with no problem. When we got there (on foot) they had the reservation and seated us immediately (it was not very busy at that hour, on a Thurs). The staff was very friendly and our server was helpful with suggestions off the menu. We chose an array of oysters on the half shell from 5 locations. They were all fresh and enjoyable. The sauces were excellent and not overpowering. We also had a great beer to go along with lunch (Oskor Bluez), and plenty of fresh bread with olive oil. Overall, just what we were hoping for.
(5)Libby S.
I always enjoy coming here with my parents. The staff is always very pleasant and the food, delicious! So I don't really have any complaints- and if you have the wallet for it, I would recommend everyone to come and try it (lobster roll, chowder, and oysters are highly recommended). I would give this restaurant 5 stars, but I do feel that the portions are on the smaller side and the value would be greater if I left feeling a little more full for the money! But, still a great spot.
(4)Brian S.
Reading the reviews prior to my visit to B&G, I was pretty confused. People seemed to fall on two ends of the spectrum, and it was a bit tough to reconcile the two types of reviews. My goal here is to do just that. In a nutshell: I actually think both sets of reviews are accurate. What you order and your expectations coming in definitely will shape your experience. We sat outside, which was a good choice for what turned out to be a nice summer evening. A couple servers attended to us, and they were both polite and helpful. Drinks: the menu is a bit limited here. There are LOTS of pricey wine choices, but no mixed drinks, so be prepared. There was also only one beer on draft (Avery White Rascal) -- a fine beer, but I prefer having a little bit of choice in my selections. We started off with the oysters. B&G featured 12 types of oysters, each from a different area, ranging from Massachusetts to Washington to Nova Scotia. Ordering the sampler platter provides you with one oyster of each type. If you like oysters or are even so-so on them but want to try a variety, this is a very good way to do it. You can definitely tell the differences in flavor and texture, and at the very least, it's an interesting experience and a good conversation piece. Next up was our first course of appetizers. The corn beignets were outstanding. Light, fluffy, and flavorful, they were complemented with an outstanding mustard. While overpriced at $14, the taste was worth it (and really, let's be honest, just about any fine dining establishment in Boston will feature overpriced appetizers). While I loved the beignets, I can't say the same about the clam chowder. Chowder is one of those things I've loved since I was a kid and have enjoyed ordering both when I lived in New England and when I've taken trips there, and B&G's was iffy at best. That said, I can see how it might appeal to some people. The clams were chewy (they even got stuck in my teeth) and the broth lacked the rich creaminess that I like in a chowder. To each their own, but I wouldn't order it again. (In an odd twist, I had a much better chowder at an Irish pub the next afternoon.) For our main courses, I ordered the hotly-debated lobster roll while my girlfriend ordered the black sea bass. The sea bass was overall pretty good. The succotash made for a nice complement to the dish, and although the portion wasn't tremendously large, it was satisfactory for a main course. The fish was tender and well prepared. Now onto the lobster roll. If you're like me, you've read all these reviews and have no idea whether you should order it or not. My verdict: it was good but not spectacular. I mean, it's basically lobster on a bread roll. There is no "special sauce" that gives it some incredible or substantially different flavor from what you'll find elsewhere. Yes, the lobster was moist, tender, and tasty, but it was also $27, which is certainly on the high side. Would I order it again? Nope. Am I glad I tried it? Yup. Would I encourage others to try it? Only if this is the only place you expect to go where you might order a lobster roll; otherwise, I think you can find a comparable one elsewhere that's cheaper. So, for the long and short of it: pretty good food, but not amazing, and given that B&G is on par expense-wise with other fine dining establishments, that may be a bitter pill to swallow. If you're going for oysters, I think you'll be happy. If you're going for anything else, temper your expectations.
(3)Kristin J.
Came here for an early after work dinner with a friend. Service was friendly and prompt; our raw bar orders came out quickly, and soon after we finished our oysters and clams, our entrees came out. We both ordered a variety of oysters and a cherrystones, I had the lobster roll and she had the blue cod. We loved the oysters (they change nightly or weekly, not sure), the cherrystones (one of them was so big it was really hard to eat), and the french fries that came with my lobster roll (somehow they were somewhat sweet in flavor, and perfectly crispy). My dining companion liked her fish, but (I know I am going against popular opinion here) I was disappointed in the lobster roll. The meat was a little overcooked (a tad tough), and there needed to be something else to enhance the natural sweetness of the lobster meat- maybe some more salt, a touch more mayo, or a little butter. We both agreed next time to spend our money on oysters and french fries and skip the entrees.
(3)Anna L.
this place was right around the corner of where we were staying so we walked on over here not expecting much. I was surprised because this place was such a cute little spot. We ordered half dozen oysters, ate them and they were so good and fresh, we ordered another half dozen. We also had clam chowder and the cod in pea sauce. clam chowder was delicious with a hint of bacon and this spicy chip puff on top. It was so delicious! The cod was moist and light and flaky. the vegetables underneath and the pea sauce really made the dish. Im so glad we decided to come here!
(5)Christina G.
Nice atmosphere and decent service, but otherwise nothing really stand out for me. I came here for a few drinks and appetizers. We tried some raw bar and fried calamari and both were just standard. For the price we paid I really was hoping for a little more. Much more actually.
(3)Whitney R.
Although I've passed by B&G multiple times over the past few years, I never got a chance to try it out. I met up with a friend there last night, and was immediately impressed by the service as well as the presentation and quality of dishes. Our server, Mark, was super attentive and absolutely wonderful. Out of a list of about 20 types of raw oysters (from MA, WA, PEI, and NS), he made great recommendations for me, based on my very limited knowledge and experience. We also got an order of fried calamari ($14; my favorite!) and romaine wedge salad ($14), as well as another dish of salmon on a bed of pureed beans and coriander (I have no idea what it was- another recommendation!). Everything was fantastic. I'll definitely be heading back... payday can't come soon enough!
(5)Lisa L.
Lobster Roll + BLT = Match Made in Heaven! After 3 long days of being in seminar classes/training, we were in need of an amazing meal. One of the girls we met in the training suggested B and G, and it was the best suggestion ever! Kristin G. and I sat outside, in the cutest patio area, sipping our wine and eating the most amazing food ever! We started off with a salad, and we each ordered a lobster roll - the regular one and the one with the BLT. Both were amazing, with the perfect mayo to lobster ratio and crunchy bread to die for! B and G, better than your average restaurant and the greatest lobster roll on the planet!
(5)Stephen L.
Let's see here, I recently came here this past Sunday. I really like the place here, it looks like a hot spot here. The food was delicious, but the service was horrendous. First of all, we came in, got seated promptly. From there, things just went down hill. Our server seemed to lack experience and was not very well mannered. He didn't take our orders until 20 minutes after we got seated. It took another 15 minutes to serve the food, which I didn't really mind, but the when it was done, my food was waiting to get served. I anxiously looked at my plate as it was sitting at the kitchen as I watch my server goofing off in the back with the bus boy and a few of the kitchen staff. He came to serve it after 10 minutes later. I will admit, the food was absolutely delicious. I had the Atlantic Blue Cod and my GF had the Roasted mussels. We both really liked what we had. I ran out of water, but my water did not get refilled once during the course of dinner. In fact, it just seemed like the waiter was more concern with goofing off then actually serving his customers. My other complaint would be they don't serve mimosas, I understand that they don't have a full liquor license, but isn't just champagne and orange juice? Over all, I'd give it a 2.5 star. The food was absolutely fantastic, but the service really left a sour taste in my mouth. I hope next time we come, the server will be better trained and well mannered. "Aight yo?"
(2)christine c.
Stopped in for some of the dollar "beers and bivalves." They featured a Virginia oyster which was actually quite tasty, with all the fixings and such, it was very good. It was also pretty neat to see them prep everything from my seat at the bar. The Schaffer beer they had at $1, which was a-O.K. for a cheap night. My friend and I split the tuna club which had a lemon pepper aioli, lettuce, tomato, bacon, avacado and diced raw tuna on buttered toast with some slaw, pickles and fries. It was a little steep at $18, but it was pretty huge. We split it so it was perfect for a snack with our oysters. The place is really cute and small and has a wonderful little patio off the back. Definitely fresh and a huge selection of oysters. Try it out first on a Monday or Tuesday and get their dollar-oysters deal, especially if you're not a huge oyster fan, it's worth trying out.
(3)Ken R.
I almost didn't go because of all the recent negative reviews, but I'm glad I did. Good oysters--not the very best I've had, but still a treat--solid wine list, chic ambience, and everything out of the kitchen was excellent (in addition to oysters I tried the pea shoot salad and stuffed calamari). Add it all up and it was an awesome evening. Still, I have to dock a star because of the prices and the kitchen's reckless disregard for arterial health. I admit, the lobster roll is devilishly appealing, but I was scared off by what must have been at least 1500 calories of fries and butter that accompanies it--well beyond the expensive and decadent lobster rolls I've ordered in the past.
(4)Charlotte B.
Now I see what all the "hype" surrounding B&G is all about. This place is good, but not the best seafood around. The restaurant is very small, so now I understand why it takes awhile to get a reservation. We had one on a Tuesday night and when we got there the place was packed. It's pretty small, but we were sat right away at a bar-type table, there were 4 of us and it was definitely a table that in another spot would have sat 2. If you're a group larger than four I have NO IDEA how you are going to eat here. There was one table for 6, but that was the biggest. The food was great, super fresh oysters, wonderful seared tuna, and lobster gnocchi that was rich, buttery and didn't skimp on the lobster. The $27 lobster roll and fries looked amazing, but not anything you can't get elsewhere for a bit less, and I didn't try the clam chowder, but $14 seems a little steep. All in all great food, high prices. It's fun every once in awhile, but if you really want the basics like oysters, chowder and lobster rolls, you're better off at Legal, Sail Loft, or even Summer Shack.
(3)Audrey K.
This place was such a treat and I'm so glad me and the boy made our way here this past weekend. Though there were table outdoors, we wanted to sit inside and get a view of the bustling kitchen. It eventually got quite noisy (people talking, not the chefs - they seemed to know what they were doing well and never really broke the silence) with awkward pop music playing, but regardless... the food - YUM! Started off with an assortment of raw oysters, which the shucking person shucks with just a latex glove?! Seriously?! Deeelicious. Moved onto the garlic mussels and the lobster roll. The garlic mussels won it, hands down. They are cooked so perfect, and the tomato-y broth is amazing. I could dip bread, pour over rice, and wash my face with it. The lobster roll was underwhelming - I am no expert on this food, so I will keep my mouth shut. Apparently B&G has the most amazing ones ever.. I'll leave that part up to the credible lobster lovers. The banana pudding dessert may have been the best part of our dinner - as stated by boy. It was SO good, and so tiny, and so so good.
(4)A W.
Two words: Barbara Lynch. (I highly recommend the hake- incredibly fresh and delicious)
(4)Saba N.
I headed to B&G oysters for restaurant week - and had no idea what to expect. I worship Barbara Lynch, so I had a feeling it would be a treat, but there was some mixed reviews on yelp which gave me doubts. Well, the verdict is in & I am happy to report that I enjoyed my meal there. I liked everything I ate. That being said, there was nothing on the restaurant week menu that I truly loved - but that's part of the game with restaurant week. It's never as good as the regular menu. We ordered the calamari off the everyday menu, which I can honestly say was better than any part of my restaurant week meal. It's a great spot though, super cozy and I loved the open kitchen.. I just wasn't blown away by the food. I will definitely have to come back and re-review.
(3)Marina B.
My friend from California was visiting and had been told that she had to try B&G Oyster. Having never been, I tagged along. It's a little cramped and the high chairs and tables are not the most comfortable to sit in (especially if anyone in your party is elderly or otherwise disabled). I enjoyed that the kitchen was right out front, and you could see them cooking you food. However, the waitress hardly ever came by, and seemed bothered whenever her attention was requested. The mussels I got were delicious, but the crabmeat sandwich I got was dry and rather tasteless. I was also shocked at the prices, considering the laid back atmosphere. The bill for two appetizers and two entrees was $95, which was absolutely not worth it. Boston has tons of restaurants, and so I would not recommend they bother wasting their time here. Find something more worth your time and money.
(2)Anne W.
First time to the South End.. very trendy by night. The tables on the street are packed with people. The place is like a diner.. open kitchen.. with a limited menu. A few categories.. appetizers, specialties, entrees, lobster, and desserts. Flat rate price for each category except specialities. Amazing selection of oysters. I do love the cute little place cards. Do what I did... get six different ones and you can really taste the difference. An oyster is not just an oyster n'est-ce pas? I love the buttery tasting ones from DC and Mass. Yummy yummy in my tummy... I had the steamed clams. I love clams but I wasn't crazy about the tomato sauce base they had. Tried the monkfish wrapped in proscieutto. Good.. but a little small. Tiramisu didn't quite cut it either. It was like a cream in a cup. Where are my lady fingers? Like I said.. raw oysters are yummy yummy... mmmm...
(3)Bob S.
We always thought that you could walk in and sit at the bar if there were empty seats. Tonight, we arrived at 8:30 pm and there were at least 5 empty seats at the bar, but were told that "they were taken." We left.
(1)Courtney K.
I have been spoiled. Living in Arizona, we don't get very fresh seafood, especially oysters. We ordered a dozen oysters (not sure which ones.) They were medium size, plump and so so divine. We also ordered a lobster roll to share and it was super tasty. Not drenched in mayo and the roll was tender on the inside and crunchy on the outside. We ordered a great french chard that went perfectly with them as well! The server was very attentive without being overbearing. Will be back next time I am in Boston!
(4)Tara C.
This review is for the lobster roll - not the oysters. It's slightly better than Legal Seafood but come on people. The best lobster roll ever? I feel bad for you if that is the best you've ever had. If you like paying more for less then by all means go here. My issues with this place: 1. atmosphere - snobby, no personality. My husband and I walked in for lunch during the week and immediately everyone was staring at us. We walked to the bar area to have a seat and they looked at us like we were aliens. 2. The lobster roll. We do not mind paying a lot ($27) for something good but it is a very small lobster roll with very small pieces of lobster. It just didn't have a good flavor. The good? The french fries were excellent! My advice - go to Neptune for lobster rolls. Much better atmosphere, the $25 lobster roll is huge and it has large chunks of flavorful lobster.
(2)Jeremy C.
Went there last friday for dinner with the lady. We had 7:30 reservations, i arrived nearly 15 minutes early. The rush had yet to come so they sat me right in front of the open kitchen. If you like watching the action, make sure to ask for good seats when booking your reservation. Service started kinda slow, as it took 5 minutes for a waiter to come by, and then another 8 minutes until my drink came. The menu is concise and focused. Eventually, my lady arrived, and we were on our way to enjoying dinner. I appreciate the current list of oysters and the waiters knowledge of them. I ordered a mixed half dozen. they were presented nicely and shucked well. We ordered the calamari as well for an app, and both knew we were trying the lobster roll that everyone on here talks about. Again, unfortunately, the service was a little slow on drinks. I had ordered a beer when i was first seated, but hoped to have wine with dinner. Since we ordered dinner with our apps, and a runner brought out all of our food, we didn't end up seeing our waiter until midway through our meal. At that point, my desire for wine had dwindled. Mixed feelings on this, it certainly was busy, but there's like 20 tables, so i'm not quite sure why he went MIA. His loss i suppose. The lobster roll was pretty good. it looks small, but its actually the perfect size. The lobster is dressed perfectly. and the bun was buttered and delicious. The fries were standard. The one thing i didn't get was the slaw....it just seemed to be there for a little more color on the dish. All in all I would go again just for the lobster roll. Hopefully i can have a few more drinks while i'm there!
(3)David K.
one of the top 3 places in Boston for oysters. The lobster BLT is also amazing. I just wish this place were bigger.
(5)Samantha J.
Very very tasty oysters! We were on a 3-days trip and ate here twice! The fried calamari was soft and breaded perfectly. The lobster roll was overflowing with lobster chunks. The restaurant is tiny, but the staff is very kind. The bar is great if you want to see the chef in action. Book way in advance though as they are always fully booked. The selection of desserts is a bit disappointing as there weren't a lot of choices.
(4)Katherine L.
We had a reservation for a Friday night -- and phew! We heard the hostess telling other folks that the wait would be an hour to an hour and a half. Yikes. Service was on the slow side, but very friendly and helpful. I split a lobster roll and a lobster BLT with my brother. The lobster roll was on the small side (it took him two bites to finish his half) but pretty good. Admittedly, I'm no connoisseur of lobster rolls. The lobster BLT was much more filling and also quite good. We were a little worried about two things -- too much mayo and/or not enough lobster. Neither was a problem.
(4)Jen F.
Reservations: it was Friday night and we didn't make any! So we came over and they were of course full but we were able to put down our phone number and they called us when there were two seats available at the bar. Next time I would call ahead so we could sit in the courtyard but it was really fun watching them make all the food. Service was excellent. Our waiter was attentive and made great picks for the night. Everyone here looked clean and presented themselves well. Now the big part: food. I had never eaten oysters before and they were incredible. It still scares me a bit thinking about it, but I loved them. The oysters were super fresh and they were cutting them there as you ordered. They had probably ten oysters of the day to try a la carte and the sauce was a perfect match. It all tasted so crisp and fresh. We also got four pieces of the shrimp cocktail, which was large and fresh but not necessarily worth the high price of each a la carte. They had excellent cocktail sauce too (we were eating it alone on a fork it was so good). We then moved on to the next course which was clam chowder and tuna nicoise. I haven't eaten clam chowder in YEARS and I was a bit wary but this was really amazing. Also important to note that this may have been the richest thing we ate tonight. The tuna nicoise was great. Totally different presentation than expected. Don't think I would order it again though with the other great looking salads they offer, well, unless they added a second quail egg. For dinner we ordered the lobster roll (of course) and the skate wing. Both of which we had never had before. They exceeded our expectations. I would definitely get them both again. The skate wing was cooked perfectly and I think it is now my favorite white fish. Note: the fries here are really great. Spiced well, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Lastly, banana compote and excellent coffee for dessert. We were so full by then the only place we could go was back to the hotel. I'd come back here anytime and do it again though!
(5)Katie S.
I was in Boston for 24 hours and my trusted friend picked this place for some great New England seafood. We split a dozen oysters which were absolutely fantastic. I was a little bummed to hear this place only serves wine and beer. For me, there's nothing better than a dirty martini and fresh oysters - oh, well. For my entree, I had the lobster tail with fries. It's a pretty big roll and it was very good. However, I think Luke's lobster in NYC has ruined lobster rolls for me everywhere else because nothing can compare. Yes, that's right, a lobster "shack" in NYC has better lobster rolls. B and G's was a bit to "dressed" for me. I prefer the almost whole lobster chunks with minimal mayo and seasoning. My friend had the butter poached lobster tail for $27. It was the smallest lobster tail I've ever seen. He said it was absolutely delicious, but totally not worth $27 - he was still hungry. I'd come back and do the lobster roll and oysters again. It was all very delicious, but Luke's is better. Great fries!
(4)Alec Y.
this place was good. good, not amazing. but solid. i went for lunch. and i walked in and it was really cute. i was expecting something more polished, but i liked that it wasn't. i also loved that the kitchen was open to the public. and i really like their oyster display. i really like high chairs so the way the restaurant was set up was nice. the service was only okay. i actually would say it was on the not so good side. first off, when we ordered, and they were taking away our wine glasses, the women knocked mine over and almost broke it. and it wasn't like a gentle knock over. she was trying to work so fast that she knocked the glass with quite a lot of force. it was startling. she also just seemed rushed even though there were only a few people in the restaurant. she was walking around fast and when she was dropping things off, like bread, she dropped it off while she was walking to another table. same with the food. same with the check and bill. she just seemed so rushed all the time. it wasn't awful or anything. i was just surprised. the food was quite good though. it didn't blow my mind. but i really did enjoy it. i started with some oysters, that were delicious. super fresh and the flavor and sauces were delicious. then i got the clam chowder which was one of the best clam chowders i've ever drank. i then had the oyster po boy. which was good. the sandwich itself isn't actually that impressive. i liked it a lot, but i was more curious about the other dishes after i ate mine. then for dessert, i had this greek yogurt which at first taste, i was really not enjoying it. but then after i continued, i really liked it. it got better and better. overall i had a good experience. i enjoyed the food a lot, and i definitely would love to come back. but now i'm just more curious about barbara lynch's other restaurants.
(4)Matt O.
I love oysters. In fact, one week last summer I ate so many of them that I started turning red and puffy. I'm not sure why that happened, but I attribute it to my mass consumption of the tasty little filter feeders. With this being said, I know good oysters and this place has them. Their oyster menu is like a wine menu... briny, slimy little creatures from all over the eastern seaboard (and a few from the west coat). I visited B&G a couple weeks ago and ate 2 dozen of the few different PEI variations they offered. Brilliant! Oh yeah, the dinner was great too. Clam and Chorizo stew. Awesome. Great wine list too... MANY white varietals from Austria and Germany that are pretty uncommon around my area of California. It was fun to check them out and see how they played out against the salty little critters. Will I go back? Definitely. P.S. they only take reservations on weekends for parties of 4 or more. Be aware! The place is VERY SMALL. Expect a wait. But also expect the hostesses to be very accommodating and pleasant. We were able to order wine while waiting on the patio.
(5)aaron t.
i've been here before, but just realizing it. Amazing assortment of seafood, especially the variety of oysters(20+). Extremely tasty but for a price. Call ahead of time. Very fresh, great service, nice environment, good vibes, good place to catch up with friends, a date, or a small group. I've seen the patio before, but never been out there since I went during the winter.
(4)B J.
This place rocks my world. Best raw bar in Boston, after Neptune Oyster, and the best "traditional" lobster roll this side of the Saco River. The wait can be a while. Make a reservation -- and make it early -- a couple days ahead of time, even for a Wednesday night dinner if it's in prime eating time.
(5)Tim B.
B&G had a really great selection of oysters from all over the continent, and it was fun to try the different types to see how their flavors varied. It's disappointing how expensive oysters are in NE, but $2/per seems to be the standard. The kitchen is right there next to your table and the restaurant itself is very small. We enjoyed watching them cook while we ate. The chowder was very good too! Good place for a date.
(4)D D.
Revisited B&G's this month & it is still as awesome as last year's visit! ***** AWESOME place! Quaint lower level floor of a corner brownstone looking building on Tremont St. Not easily visible but you'll see 2 valet dudes on standby in front of restaurant. Me and my guest sat on the bar area, which are also the front row seats to the open kitchen. Meghan took care of us w/ her attentive skills of making sure all patrons at the bar seating were well taken care of. Perfectly fried, lightly battered oysters w/ their homemade tartar sauce was yummy. Wide selection of raw oysters that change daily. Refreshing Maine Lobster roll w/ FF : ), the best I ever had b/c it was NOT drenched w/ mayo. Also tried their pan-seared sea scallops. Wide selection of wine choices too. I believe it's right next door to their sister restaurant called the butcher shop, will have to try that next time i'm in boston. Ended dinner w/ a chocolate brownie sundae : ) Please note that you don't have to have car valeted ... just park a few blocks away. I also noticed that you have to have a residence permit to park in vicinity of restaurant, so cruise further 3 - 4 blocks. ENJOY, if you're planning to visit them!!!
(5)Uland L.
Came to Boston on business and decided to check out this place after seeing the great reviews on yelp and recommendations from different Travel Brochures. It's recommended that you make reservations as this place seems to be very crowded even on the weekdays and the dining space isn't very large. My coworker and I ended up sitting at the bar in front of the oyster shucking section of the kitchen which was nice as it provided some entertainment during dinner. They have a great selection of oysters so we ended up ordering around 20, all of which were very fresh. For entrees we ordered clam chowder, scallops, and several other seafood choices that gave us a total bill of around $90. This place is definitely not cheap, but the food is very fresh and the service is friendly. Recommended for the oysters and clam chowder.
(4)Brett M.
I went to B&G Oysters with the intention of eating a disgustingly over indulgent amount of oysters. When the bank didn't approve my Oyster loan (they called it irrational and told me that I need to get a grip on reality), I settled for a smaller sample of Oysters and something a bit more reasonable, a Lobster BLT. The Oysters were nice. They had a varied selection from the Northern Atlantic and Pacific, all were pretty good. The Lobster BLT was incredibly sloppy. I may actually rename it the "Slobster BLT." I picked it apart with a fork after giving it my best.
(3)Nikki V.
Definitely try the beet salad and mussels appetizer!!! Yummmmm!!! If you can, make a reservation, but sitting at the bar was a great and fun experience.
(4)Jane D.
The evening hostess at this place needs a serious attitude adjustment. My friends and I had been meaning to go here for quite some time and decided to finally go one evening after work. As expected, it was quite busy, so we put our name in for a table on the patio, which we were told would be a 30 minute wait. We gave our cell phone number, and proceeded across the street to the Beehive for drinks (love the pink ladies there!). We sat outside, literally 50 feet from B&G, with the phone in front of us on the table - after 45 minutes elapsed with no call, we called to see what the status of the table was - the hostess told us that she tried to reach us 4 times, and we weren't picking up (which was extremely untrue). She also quoted the wrong cell phone number back to us, and when we corrected her, she said, "Oh, yes, that's what I meant." Long story short - she gave away our table and told us it was our fault that we weren't picking up the phone at the wrong number that she was dialing. To further her extreme attitude, she then called us back immediately following us hanging up on her, to "prove her point." I'll admit the food looked good, but nothing is worth that - especially when you're paying them for service. We took our empty stomach's to Stephi's and had delicious food and wonderful service. NEVER going back to to B&G again - if I want oysters, I'll be at Neptune Oyster in the North End (also fabulous).
(1)Q C.
OMG the lobster roll is SOOOO tiny. It's snack size. Definitely not worth the price. If it were a little bigger, it might be comparable to the one at Neptune's Oyster. The lobster meat and fries were tasty but I would not go back simply for the lack of value that you get.
(2)Alex R.
Always reliable, though when I'm in the mood for a great oyster bar and lobster roll, Neptune Oyster in the North End usually wins out.
(4)Allyson C.
Their lobster roll is ridiculously good. Nice wine list too and love the decor/atmosphere.
(5)Greg L.
Some of the best oysters in Boston. I was extremely impressed with the selection, they had a lot of west coast offerings which you do not see that often. A little pricey but its expected for Tremont st. Atmosphere is great but the waitstaff is stuck up. I went with a few people early on a Saturday just to kill time before we went to the Beehive, and for some reason the host was not happy. The waiter clearly did not work for his tip, with his service being a bit abrasive and did not care that we ordered a few oysters and some beers. Overall I would go back because the food was impressive.
(4)kendall f.
Went for lunch, pretty much everything was delish. We sat at the bar and started with a half dozen oysters pick by our waiter, a nicely sized, sweet and briny morsels of deliciousness. Moved on to some sweet small bellied clams cooked to perfection.French fries were crispy and light salted. To add a little earth we ordered the sugar snap pea salad, a clever melding of crunchy sugar snap peas, creamy ricotta and crunchy almonds. Because we really do not get good calms in California we ordered the steamed little neck clams, once again sweet but savory packets of goodness laced in a spicy red sauce. The service was friendly and attentive with out being intrusive. The decor has been updated since I was there a few years ago, the place is nice and light during the day. My only *issue* is that 27.00 is a little steep for a lobster roll given lobsters are pretty cheap. I did not order one because of it. Will defiantly be back to B & G when visiting Boston.
(4)cassandra L.
Came here for Boston restaurant week. Like the cosy atmosphere of the rest. The server is friendly but they are under staffed. Only one server working. The service was very very slow; therefore earning the one star review. We tried the Lobster Arancini (ok- not impressive), mussels with fries(ok-again not impressive), salmon salad sandwich(ok- nothing impressive) and dessert ( we only took a bite!) We also hv half a dozen of oyster( Neptune oyster selection is much better). All in all, we came here prepared to be blown away by the food here due to yelpers review. Unfortunately it is not the case for us after spending over $70 for lunch. Perhaps it is the restaurant week menu. Not sure if I will give it another try. This is nothing comparable with Neptune Oyster.
(1)Steve L.
OMG I love you. I've been there on normal nights and also during restaurant week and they are always on the mark. Barbara Lynch is awesome.
(5)David h.
Best oysters in Boston!
(5)Jillian Y.
Aside from the lobster bisque (too much flour), this place is amazing! The music is hot (Tribe Called Quest was playing while we sat at the bar last night), the service is low-key but good, the wine list is enchanting (and um, expensive), and oh, the oysters! The menu constantly changes, but if you can, try the "Small Choice" oyster, my favorite.
(5)Kara K.
Great drink menu, great oysters...sat on patio and had VERY average service. Our waitress was borderline rude and not friendly at all. We will not go back given the other incredible restaurants in the area.. a shame given the food was good.
(3)Mark B.
Great oysters and ambiance/service!
(4)Sara D.
I have only been to this place one time for lunch, so keep that in mind. I had the lobster roll with fries and slaw. Everything on my plate was top notch, including the slaw. But, the food was very pricey ($25 for the lobster roll), and they don't give you as much as Legal Seafoods. Also, the food doesn't taste any better than Legals either. Also, the place is very small, and when it's busy, it's very cramped in there. Parking is scarce also. I was seated at the bar during this meal. But, very good food there, and it is recommended.
(4)Niki B.
From the aesthetics of the place to the staff to the food this is a 5 star place to eat or have a drink. I especially appreciated the willingness of the staff to explain all things oysters. And needless to say the oysters were top notch. A favourite. Hands down!
(5)Beck M.
We were in search of good simple seafood and this was the place. The raw oysters were succulent and delicious, asparagus salad unique, and lobster special was out of this world. The food is not overdone so one can appreciate the main ingredients without being over-sauced or over-salted. The bartender/server was extremely friendly, professional and kmowledgable. We highly recommend B and G for delicious unpretentious food in a cozy little spot in the South End.
(5)Jill D.
Boston may be boring but the South End is picking up. B&G Oysters is my new favorite. This little gem is great for champagne, oysters and other pricey seafood. The quality of the food is superb. Finding a table at night, without a reservation, is near impossible.
(5)A M.
Technically, I can't give this place any stars because I didn't eat here...but I wanted to! We tried to make a reservation earlier in the day and they were booked. We were told we could certainly walk in for a seat at the bar and of course we could eat at the bar. So, that was the plan. When we got there we were told there was a 45 minute wait for a bar seat and they would call us (they asked for our cell number) when seats became available. Huh? But you already told us we could come in and wait for a seat at the bar... Anyway, the hostess then told us we were welcome to dine SOMEWHERE ELSE!!!!! Ah, okay...thanks! That's great business. I'll be sure to do that. Sibling Rivalry...across the street and it was awesome. Thanks for the advice....bitch! See their review....it's 5 stars!!!
(1)Robert G.
A really great place for a great summer meal. I've only gone when the patio outside is open - and I don't know if I'd like to go and eat inside. The inside is very cramped, and loud. Outside you feel like you are in a private garden (with seven other tables of strangers), eating the best oysters and lobster salad you've ever tasted. The wine menu is great too - full of bottles from different places. UPDATE - I had a meal inside and it was fabulous! Intimate, private. It was loud, but we had our own little area and were able to have a converesation. This just confirms - the best place for seafood in the South End!
(5)Rebecca L.
I love this restaurant, the staff, the food, and the amazing wine list. Best restaurant in Boston, bottom line.
(5)Wesley C.
cutest oyster bar on the planet. dont be overwhelmed by the oyster menu, just have the servers pick them.
(4)G N.
We were looking around for an early opening restaurant in the South End on a miserable rainy day and stumbled into here quite by chance. We found that this is not a good restaurant for toddlers when the mac and cheese came topped with sea urchin. The kids ate around the sea urchin, but the adults thoroughly enjoyed the slimy buttery morsels (a perfect accompaniment to mac and cheese). The raw oyster selection was manageable and had good choices from the East and West coasts. The waitress was quite knowledgeable and helped us pick a very nice selection. It was delicious. The lobster roll was very good, and the kids filled up on the fries. We shared a delectable black sea bass. My favorite Boston casual seafood joint. Like all of Barbara Lynch's restaurants, thoroughly enjoyable with top-notch ingredients and preparation. Surprisingly low noise levels from the open kitchen. Well chosen wine and beers. Smooth, unobtrusive, smart, and seamless service. Make reservations, because it can get quite crowded.
(5)Jerry H.
Nice meal outside in the garden. Tables far enough apart for conversation. Oysters great and most interesting fish selection I have found in Boston--blue cod, fluke, and daurade. A nice change from the usual halibut and cod. Excellent wine list and server knew which wines went well with the meal. A good choice for seafood fans
(4)Tate I.
What can I say that hasn't been said... This place is just delicious.
(5)Larry B.
WHEN: Saturday 2PM PROS: 1) Nice place and people 2) Excellent waitress; and she did a complicated 6-person order in her head without a hitch. 3) Fries 4) Scallops and oysters 5) Nice outdoor area CONS: 1) $14 for a very ordinary mesclun salad with a tiny! bit of goat cheese and tasteless beets 2) Agree with Peter G., lobster roll was "Meh" 3) Bass was fine but "Meh" 4) Lobster roll overpriced
(3)Sarah K.
Great place for oysters, but maybe not the best for everything else. Oyster bar is fun, you get to watch them prepare the oysters and the meals. The patio outside is large and nice, but not street facing. The oysters were amazing and fresh and I think they were offering 15 different kinds when I ate there. Everything else is just mediocre and highly priced for what you get, including the wine.
(4)Mark H.
I've eaten here a few times - the oysters are great but the rest of the dinner menu leaves something to be desired -- there aren't a ton of options and the selections available are wayyyy overpriced. Ocean perch for $25? Fried clams for $25? I am not opposed to paying these prices for nice pieces of fish, but not for hake, perch, or skate (yes, skate). Plus the wine and beer list is on the pricey side as well ($7 for a bottle any good beer for example). I'd say come for the oysters (well worth it) and have dinner somewhere else nearby.
(3)Anna B.
B&G lived up to its reputation for yummy oysters, good food and pleasant atmosphere. We savored one of each oyster--thanks to the handy guide--and then went for another round of our favorites! Two dozen oysters later (between two of us) we didn't think we'd have room for the salmon and bass we ordered for dinner. Conveniently, the main courses were conservative in size (despite the price tag). The place is small but in that "quaint south end" kind of way. While we had dinner reservations and were seated promptly, the staff were incredibly polite with walk-ins who had no problem waiting for a seat at the bar. This is a great place for a special occasion, oysters only or a for a very light (and expensive) dinner. Definetly go for the oysters, and stay for the food if you have an extra $20-$30 for a main dish. Dessert menu is pretty slim.
(4)Ryan L.
I am very anti-fancy restaurant pants normally but this place is great. My gf introduced me to this place as it was her favorite. I'm not a raw oyster bar fan but it actually made me a semi fan of raw oysters. also the clam chowder here (my other main culinary love besides indian food) was ridonkulously good. As good if not better than Legal's.
(5)michelle w.
A friend and I actually stumbled upon B&G one afternoon while strolling through the South End. We suddenly had a craving for beer and oysters. The restaurant was very quaint and cozy. We sat at the bar which led us to great service. The oysters were fresh and delicious!
(5)Jackie C.
Great place, nice atmosphere. A bit pricy thou! But I really enjoyed myself. Waitress was really nice, and the wine was great!! We had a salad with pear on it...,,,,amazing!!! The mussels were also really good!! Gotta try this place out!!!
(5)Rondeep D.
My oyster cherry was popped here and I wouldnt have it any other way. The oysters were fresh and delicious and the lobster BLT I ordered was great! The place does get packed and I had to wait around 45min for a table for 5, but I think it was well worth it, and I hate waiting!
(4)Abdullah A.
Small, crowded, tough getting a reservation at last minute. But definitely worth the wait. Seating on the bar is recommended. Great menu. Besides the oysters, lobster rolls are oh so good.
(4)kim d.
This is a great spot to go and share a bottle of wine with a dozen or so oysters followed by one or two appetizers and then share and entre. Their service is great and the food is spectacular. The biggest issue is getting in the door they are always busy and the place is small so fills up quickly
(5)luke b.
YAY! FISH! mmmm. this place is FISHTASTIC! The decor is wonderful, very cozy setting. Our server was amazing. Super nice and when asked to help us pick out a wine, she picked the absolute perfect bottle. As for the food... amazing. so fresh and delicious. The lobster rolls are near perfection, with lots of tender meat and just the perfect amount of dressing. amazing. DELICIOUS... I mean DEFISHIOUS! I brought some good friends from out of town here and it was loved by all. Great dining expeirience. YAAAAAY!
(5)Julie N.
One sunny Sunday afternoon I had a craving for a lobster roll and I decided that it was time to check out Barbara's other restaurant. I'm soooo glad we did. The place is super cute - very small - very modern - great environment. We ordered up the Maine Lobster Rolls at $26 a piece (i think) and they came out pretty quickly. My god were they good. They weren't like most other lobster rolls containing just two ingredients - lobster and mayo - these had a sweet taste to it with unique spices. It came with a side of yummy cole slaw, pickles, and a basket of fries that were sooo addictive. Very filling lunch. So, with two lobster rolls, two glasses of wine, and the tip, the lunch was $100. I'd go back today if I could.
(5)Nicolas B.
Went there during the last warm days of 2010. The place was full so i enjoyed a little walk in South End with my wife. Nothing better to make me hungry. Once back, we got seated in the nice patio downstairs and got the menus. Here was my first mistake... don't take the lobster roll... I mean, I had just arrived in Boston. Yet, you shouldn't have treated me as a tourist, really, that's hurting my feelings. Second, i don't need to have a waiter that's all over me, even more if i asked for a white wine that's dry and not sweet and don't get what i ask. Congrats, you got me on the bottle. But you'll never see me again.
(2)J. G.
The lobster roll was pretty good as was the housemade pickles and fries. The coleslaw could be better though. It was too light on the dressing and a bit bland. I ordered the lobster bucatini and it was ok. The portion is pretty small for the price and it was a bit on the bland side. Service was good, but the place is pretty tiny. Definitely would recommend reservations before going. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here again. It was good, but not great. Maybe my expectations were too high?
(3)David L.
This place is a fabulous, intimate, yet happening high end restaurant. Sure you pay for it but the ambience far exceeds similar restaurants. For a couple, sitting at the bar is a nice option for dinner instead of a table. You can watch the food prep and enjoy each other. That's what I'd recommend.
(5)Ryan S.
If you're thinking of trying this place here's the need to know info: decor: (24/30) Intimate and stylish dcor; The dining space is small (keep your dinner party to less than 4), nice lighting, and great outdoor seating (which there doesn't seem to be a lot of in Boston). food: (23/30) The menu combines some "high end picnic food" (e.g., lobster roll, lobster BLT, etc.) along with some more sophisticated entrees. While the food was very good, the plates are small and overpriced. The oyster selection is pretty good; though I think if you want to eat just oysters, you could probably find it at a more modest restaurant. (For caffeine junkies: they don't have espresso drinks, but the post-meal cup of coffee was above average). service: (23/30) Given my perception of the scale of the restaurant (which was upscale-casual) the service is about what I expected. The wine presentation was done well, and the wait staff seemed to know their stuff. Cost: app + glass of wine + entre + coffee + tip ~= $50 per/person
(3)Baochi N.
If you want a wide selection of oysters, this is the place to come. The low-ceilinged restaurant has a comfortable, kick back ambiance, and on warm nights you can sit in the pleasant terrace area. I had a really nice dining experience sitting at the bar, where I got to watch the kitchen work their magic. The oyster menu is indeed quite comprehensive with varieties from all over including Nova Scotia, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Washington. I tried about 8 different varieties and found about half to be delicious. The rest of the menu isn't quite as comprehensive, but that's okay because this place is really about the oysters. Still, I was quite impressed by the caesar salad with white anchovies (although I wish they had provided more than just two strips of anchovies). I also tried the soft-shell crab which was a little too salty for my usually salty taste. This is a fun little place with a great selection of beer and wine. I'd return just because it was such a good time...although, that lobster sandwich looked pretty damn good.
(3)LouLou C.
My mom and I slipped in here on a rainy Saturday. We are both oyster lovers and were not disappointed here. The service was impeccable and friendly without being overly so. The choice of oysters was wonderful! We tried fried oysters for an appetizer and these were exquisite! The only thing we were not fond of was dessert. Would definitely venture back here.
(4)Melissa Y.
This is a great place for a date. But it is pricey. If you're the type that eats a lot, then this is not the place for you. The portions are small, but I kinda liked that. I didn't waste a single bite! I went with my boyfriend and we had a dozen oysters before our entree and we were just full enough to be comfortable. the seafood stew was sooooo good. I kept asking for bread to dip into the stew. Their wines, pricey, but very good selection! desserts needed some help. only 3 choices so we skipped it...but i did think about ordering more oysters! Go on a Sunday or Monday and they have a special menu for lobsters and oysters. parking sucks in that area, but they have valet for $16. I would wait until it gets warmer and park a little further to enjoy the stroll through the south end and avoid the valet fees. So, looking back at last night, I'd say it was one of the better meals I've had this year! Go check it out for yourself!
(4)J. H.
We had one of the best meals of the year at B & G on our recent visit. It is always very crowded so get there early or risk having to wait up to an hour & a half for a table. The small subterranean space centers around the open kitchen area. We sat at the bar which wraps around the food prep area and enjoyed the free show of watching the chefs prepare the meals. The fresh oysters were delectable and the selection was incredible. The selction of oysters changes daily. The waitress was extremely well-versed on the differences between all the oysters being offered. The non-raw bar food was equally impressive... freshness and flavour abound! During fair weather they open up the patio out back for additional seating.
(5)Libby F.
My boyfriend and I went to B&G for the first time for a Valentine's Day dinner and were pleasantly surprised at the experience. We weren't able to get reservations until 9:45, but the hostess was nice enough to call around 8:30 to say that there was a cancellation, and we could come in earlier. We were across the street at The Beehive, so we finished our drinks and headed over around 9. Although we didn't get seated at the best table in the house (our table was pretty much in the entryway), our waitress was knowledgeable about the different types of oysters (and the entire menu). We started off our meal with an order of fried oysters. This dish almost took my breath away; it was above and beyond the best friend thing I've experienced in my life. Next we ordered the clam chowder. I had heard good things about the chowder but was a little disappointed in the consistency. I prefer my chowder much thicker, as it was a little watery. I must say that the flavors were still excellent in the dish. Next we decided to order from the raw bar. Not being huge raw oyster people, we asked our server to choose a variety of different types of oyster so we could experience the difference between oysters found in different parts. I was very shocked at how much the flavor varied between oysters, but I enjoyed all of them. My favorite was a Massachusetts oyster (the name has slipped my mind). After our plates were cleared and our wine was drunk, our server was kind enough to give us mini cups of hot chocolate after hearing I loved chocolate but didn't have room for dessert. We left full and happy. B&G is definitely a place I will go again!
(4)Allison R.
The oysters and wine were delicious and the waiter was lovely. That being said the manager and hostess were both extremely rude when we sat at the bar. Our intention was to eat dinner there, but because poor attitude we decided finish our wine and take our business elsewhere. To reaffirm our decision when the bill came, the manager was rude and curt. In summary, the first and last impression left such a bad taste in my mouth that despite the loveliness the oysters, I would recommend you NOT dine here. (If it were just the hostess or staff, that would be one thing... but it was the manager... not cool)
(2)David R.
The oysters were fantastic and reasonably priced. My wife was an oyster virgin, but no longer; I had to cut her off after 1/2 dozen to make sure that she didn't ruin her dinner. Though we never got back to try the rest of the menu, she kept asking, which I think is a good sign. Though the waitress did a great job as well in recommending oysters for us to try, she started out a bit surly, almost like a sea captain too long away from land and his lover, Brandee, who is such a fine girl.
(4)Ryan W.
Hot bartender. More on less important details later.
(3)Jennifer D.
From the vigilant service to the exquisite food, To the lovely decor that sets the right mood, B&G is my go-to for plump lobster rolls, Crisp calamari and clam chowder bowls. Those fries - oh so crunchy! Those oysters, how salty! Not one single time has a trip here been faulty. A patio seat in the summer is grand, As is spotting some bar seats on a visit unplanned. So make haste to the South End and prepare for a treat - You'll enjoy the crap out of each bite that you eat.
(5)Chrissy G.
Have you ever shoved your face in a crab body in an attempt to get the last bite of a dish? I have! Stuffed deviled crab. You must try. OH and the salmon toasts. Yes. Loved this place. Sat at the bar for lunch and the bartender was super nice and accommodating, food was excellent and it was fun to watch them make it. Will definitely be back.
(5)Grace O.
I should mention first that a week ago I was just at Neptune, so that set the bar very high. B&G was a long walk from the T, which is pretty nice on a summer night. It's a nice location to walk in, and you get to build up an appetite. The bar had a nice atmosphere, very very friendly wait staff. However the music was loud rock, and the guys behind the bar kept throwing plates and generally handling everything roughly, which 1) just didn't look right, and 2) made a racket. Food! Got a selection of 4 pairs of oysters. Unfortunately forgot to take down their names but I do remember the last, Penn Cove, was a very nice, small and plump oyster with quite a deep flavour. Creamy, not too sweet, not too salty. The others were decent as well, no standouts. Deviled crab starter was quite enjoyable. Lovely texture, good taste. Wish the crab taste was more pronounced, though. Poached lobster was surprisingly small for a pound? Still tasty nonetheless, but very slightly overcooked. The corn and butter sauce were very fragrant, and I delighted in getting more bread to soak up the sauce with. Fried branzino was very nice, very fresh. The dipping sauce was very reminiscent of home - Southeast Asia. I know many people aren't used to eating whole fish but don't let that put you off ordering this. For dessert we got both the strawberry tartlet and the bombolones. I really loved both - however I think I would have enjoyed the bombolones more on a winter's night, since it is a hot dessert. The tartlet was very refreshing, the custard was very sweet but light, and the crust was surprisingly flaky puff pastry instead of the usual crumb. All in all it was a pleasant visit. The food didn't wow me - in fact I think the dessert was the highlight of the night, which is kind of weird when you go to a seafood bar expecting fantastic seafood.
(3)Joy C.
Maybe I came in with too high of expectations, but the overall meal left me feeling underwhelmed. We started with ceviche and oysters. The former was average and didn't have much flavor while the latter delivered on their freshness. Next, we tried the famous clam chowder which had a creamy consistency and bits of thick, hearty bacon. That was probably my favorite part of lunch. My main course, beer-battered fish and chips, was accompanied by tangy pickle slices, tasty coleslaw, and fries. Though the three pieces of fish were small, their delicately fried exterior almost made up for the portion size. I also tried some of my husband's fried ipswich clams which were also perfectly fried and juicy. Service was acceptable, though I did find myself having to ration out my water for a good part of the meal since the waiter was nowhere to be found. The trendy atmosphere is aesthically pleasing, and the patio is a great nook to hide away for drinks on a hot day. In short, B&G serves quality food, but I don't feel the prices are justifiable for the portion size and service.
(3)Melissa M.
Came in for oysters and ended up getting them and the most succulent, luxurious, colossal oh my god so good shrimp. I've never had better shrimp. Yes they are four bucks each and worth every dollar. Nice service, very small restaurant and they have a sunken patio. Prices might seem high but it is so worth it!
(5)Ryan R.
Went here with a friend to grab a bite for dinner on a Tuesday night. As always, the restaurant was pretty packed, but we were lucky enough to grab a reservation at one of the tables along the back wall. To start, we decided to go with a bowl of the clam chowder and the burrata and peas appetizer. The clam chowder had some good flavors, but I thought that the clams were a touch on the chewy side and was probably my least favorite dish of the night. The burrata and peas appetizer was a good-sized portion and was nice and refreshing, especially on such a hot and muggy night--though I wish there were a couple more pieces of grilled bread with it. For our main meals, we decided to split the halibut and the blue cod. Both pieces of fish were cooked PERFECTLY--I mean, I don't know if I have had a piece of fish cooked that well before. The meat was so flaky and tender and paired well with the rest of the plate. The fish was also a good portion size and priced reasonably. To end the meal, we decided to go with the chocolate mousse after reading so many reviews on Yelp. We were not disappointed, as it was super flavorful and a somewhat light option to complete a fantastic meal. Overall, this place is very small, but it provides a great ambiance and was a perfect venue for our dinner. Definitely worth checking out if you are a seafood lover.
(5)Xingyi G.
This is legit best oyster place of Boston. Great lesson for oyster starter. Compared to New York . Boston oyster is the real thing !
(5)Jessica W.
We ordered the oysters, BLT with lobster, heirloom tomatoes salad, and mussels. The oysters were great, extremely fresh and perfectly shucked! Enjoyed the salad and the mussels as well, but could have done without the BLT with lobster! overall, I really enjoyed the ambience and food!
(4)Jon D.
How perfectly can something work out? 12 different oysters of the day, well, that's a perfect dozen on a 90+ degree day. They were all delicious and fresh. My favorites were the Pipers Point, Onset, and Fanny (heh heh) Bay. The service was very friendly and the oysters were opened perfectly, with very little grit and a large amount of liquor preserved. Very nice! On the pricy side for sure but totally worth it.
(5)Sherry Z.
On business travel in Boston and had a lunch at B&G on Friday. The patio in the yard was full but here were plenty of seats inside. I had shorty stack, half butter poached lobster and ricotta bombolone for dessert. Oysters are very fresh, but I was actually more amazed by the butter poached lobster. Ricotta bombolone has four balls. I would appreciate if the waitress had told me it might be too much for one person.....I took away half of them, but they taste better when they served hot.
(5)Vania Y.
Cute chill little joint in the South End. Have been so curious to sit outside here ever since the weather warmed up! I love their entrance in at the gate. Ordered the shorty stack from the Raw bar. Food is fresh and the prawns amazing! So hearty and juicy. Oysters obviously delicious. Also ordered the fried clam bellies- hearty and the dipping sauce is amazing we had to ask for more! Overall enjoyed our experience here- it was chill and relaxing which is what I desired for a Saturday night after work. I did knock off a star due to pricing and also it being summer- have been lucky enough to travel around New England and enjoy a lot of good seafood. I would also add that while I did enjoy the oysters here that were included in the shorty stack. I did like the Island Creek ones a bit more but don't get me wrong, the oysters here are still amazing.
(4)Alex R.
Where do i begin? Almost hard to know where to start when the experience from soup to nuts is top notch. I couldn't take pictures fast enough because we were INHALING everything. RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST-but walking in on Superbowl Sunday early afternoon we couldn't be beat. From the oysters to the chowder, the pea salad and the beer we couldn't have been happier. The service was outstanding, the space is small, but so worth it. relax, open a beer, have some quality fish and enjoy. Nuf said
(5)Sonia N.
You can always count on B&G for some great quality raw bar items. We ordered the shorty raw bar which is the smaller of the two raw bar samplers and it included oysters, clams, crab claws, crab cocktail and finally cockles, which was an interesting and new variation for me. We also shared the whole fried branzino. Also very fresh and I would highly recommend this entree to anyone who's adventurous to eat a whole fish, head and all. Quite a presentation and the quality can't be beat. It can get a bit busy in here and you'll never get a same day reservation but if you can score a seat in the bar, it's a good spot to stay, relax, unwind and slurp!
(4)Jennifer B.
Best lobster roll, thin crispy fries and New England clam chowder I've had to date. Quaint little restaurant with a cool atmosphere and lovely decoration.
(4)Dana Y.
My boyfriend and I came here on a Saturday afternoon/evening. I made a reservation because I was afraid it'll be fully booked. But if you're planning to go around 4-5pm, it'll be fine, there will be a wait but not too long. The restaurant isn't huge but they try to take advantage of all space possible, without cramming people. The staff were very, very, very nice and attentive! I loved them. It was fun talking to them. They took time to recommend things and was patient with my indecisiveness. To start off, we ordered the beer-battered fish and chips. The fries were so good! Crunchy, warm, and flavorful! I couldn't stop eating it. The fish were a little too soggy for my taste - but I didn't mind it since it was fresh. Then we ordered the "High Rise" - 4 JUMBO shrimps (they were huge!), a dozen oysters, 4 crab legs, and another 4 of two other things, I forgot what it was called. It also came with a little thing of ceviche and a little cup of crab meat with mayo. Both were delicious. The High Rise, though, I WAS IN LOVE. Oh yeah, although we were so full, we had to get the chocolate mousse topped with salt caramel - it was delicious! Everything was fresh... oh I have to go back again! HIGHLY recommended!
(5)Kimberly L.
What a truly magical dinner. We kicked off the meal with 3 different types of oysters, all of which were superb. Our waiter helped us pick out a bottle of wine to go with it & was spot on with what we were looking for. We then all ordered the clam belly platter (because hello, why wouldn't we) & it was some of the best fried clam bellies I've found off of the cape. I recommend coming here in the summer, sitting on their patio, and treating yourself to some of the best seafood in Boston.
(5)Sheila R.
I liked B&G Oyster but have to admit that I was a little disappointed. This was my probably my own fault--I had heard only heard rave reviews so I think I set the bar higher than what I actually received. The food was good, but I ordered the lobster roll and have had better ones at other places. The place was packed (always a good sign) and it was on a beautiful summer night, so it was a fun place to go, but I had hoped for something a little better. My husband felt the same way, but as an oyster connoisseur, he really enjoyed his meal. I should note that the staff was wonderful, and overall, it was a fun experience.
(3)Jonathan S.
Awesome place, great selection of oysters from the Pacific, Canada and the East Coast. Stylish restaurant, decent wine list and the outdoor section is so pleasant on a nice summer evening. I don't think I've had anything but oysters there so can't comment on the other dishes but I'm sure it's really good. I'd recommend the white burgundy with the Beau Soleils. Big groups could be an issue, not enough large seating areas.
(4)JH J.
You can never go wrong with B&G. This gem is right around the corner from my place and while reservations are definitely suggested, a party of 2 can typically be seated at the bar - especially if the patio is open. Based on previous visits here, I'm guessing I've eaten my way through 75% of the menu (excluding desserts as it's not my thing and the whole fish entrees as the heads scare me). Oysters are always fresh and the crew will help with your selection if you ask. On this visit, the Maine lobster roll was calling my name: extremely light while still melting in your mouth. The fries aren't my ultimate favorite (there's a spice that throws it off) but I typically just have a few to satisfy my fried food cravings. Other go-to items include the Atlantic blue cod and the house pasta (often a pappardelle). Also, if you've never been to a Barbara Lynch food event at B&G and The Butcher Shop, I highly recommend hitting one up. Whether it's an Oysterfest or Harvestfest, the food is fantastic and the wine never stops!
(5)Jeff T.
B&G Oysters in the South End is one of my favorite restaurants. It's very pricey and one of the pricier restaurants in the South End. I love bringing my Mom, Dad and my partner their for brunch on Mother's Day. I enjoy dining on appetizers such as Oysters on the 1/2 shell, Deep Fried Oysters and/or Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail and drinking a Kettle One Martini up with a twist and just a wash of Vermouth with my dear friend Jordan. During warming months the outside patio is divine. The waitstaff are knowledgeable, personable & hard working. This place runs a tight operation upon entering through all stages of the dining experience.
(5)Tracey W.
Oysters are amazing. Our waitress was filled with knowledge and had great advice. Yum! Great atmosphere and really not long wait at all!! They will text you when your table is ready. Hillary was our waitress and she provided such great tips!
(5)Anthony R.
Overall this is a good oyster bar, but vastly overpriced. 3.75 for a plain oyster that you can get anywhere is not going to bring me back sans corporate AMEX. The shrimp and crab claws are colossal, steer toward them if you want classic oyster bar fare. And $38 for a lobster roll? No, it doesn't come with caviar or gold dust or unicorn glitter. Hmm... The real reason to come to B&G is the seasonal selection of small(er) plates. The whole fried branzino looks great so it's perfect to show off to your date/coworkers. Who doesn't love anything fried and topped with fennel/citrus? The beer list is inadequate but they do have a decent wine selection. Get a side of brussels sprouts or shishito peppers to replace your fries if you want to up the lobster roll to a full meal. And don't skip the bombolone if you like classic italian desserts!
(3)Austin M.
Stopped by here when on a short vacation is Boston as it is highly recommended by locals. Go with the oysters, it's a no brainer. I also highly recommend the poached crab, it's not a big portion but delicious. This place Is a bit pricey but well worth the experience and cuisine. Will try to come again next time I'm in Boston.
(5)Trinh T.
B & G Oysters is a seafood/oyster bar in Boston that specializes in fresh oysters & seafood dishes. It's got a wonderful outdoor patio that takes advantage of the nice Boston weather, and is within walking distance from Boston Commons. My Overall Rating - 1 1/2 Stars (Atmosphere, Food) Atmosphere - We came here on a Monday lunch without reservations, so our only seating was outside. The good news is that the outdoor patio area is in a sunken, covered area and has great charm. The walls are a combination of rock & mortar and there's a screen to block the sun. We never saw the inside of the restaurant but there was no need for the outdoors was great. 1 Star. Service - Unfortunately the service wasn't as nice as the setting. I think they were understaffed, because it seemed there was only one server for all of the outdoor seating. Our food also took an abnormally long time to come out, causing us to take it to go. When explained our urgency to our server, not only did she not speed things up (paying our bill for example), there was no sense of urgency or care. Like I said, I hope it was because they were short staffed. No Stars. Food - B & G Oysters does have some outstanding value for lunch, where you can get half a dozen oysters, a soup/salad, & a sandwich. We ordered a number of items in combination. The oysters were excellent. Not as large as Texas Gulf oysters and a bit more briny. I was a fan. They also served raw clams, but they were too chewy for me. I had their lobster BLT, which had excellent bacon but a bit too much bread and not enough lobster for me. Their lobster roll was also just ok, and after visiting Maine it wasn't even close. The final issue was it took forever to get the food out after the oysters/clams made it out. I clocked over an hour after until we got or main dishes. So not only did they seem short staffed with servers but in the kitchen as well. 1/2 Star. Will I Return? - I want to give B & G Oysters another shot. I want to think I had an unlucky visit since the reviews on Yelp are so solid. I won't rule out a return in the future, but there are way too many good restaurants in Boston that will have to be tackled first. No Stars. My Yelp Rating Scale (Sum of all parts): 1 Star - Atmosphere - Is it a cool dive? Perhaps an upscale place? No matter the type, atmosphere plays a big part and I'll give a star if I like it or thinks it has great charm. 1 Star - Service - You can have a great meal with bad service. But that's also what can make a five star joint drop to four. It's important to the dining experience that service is great and on point. 2 Stars - Food - I'll award up to two stars for the food, since this is the main reason we dine out. Sometimes the extra star is given for value, but it's really all about the food. 1 Star - Will I come back? - If I know for a fact I'll return, I'll give this a star. A place has to make an impression for me to return. Each Category can be given up to 1 star except food (2 stars) because I consider all these categories important to the overall dining experience. I will sum them up to provide my final Yelp score.
(1)Greg D.
My dead hampster, Cappy (short for cappuccino), would still be hungry after eating here. I'm paying $29 for swordfish with ratatouille I am not expecting a piece of fish the size of my thumb and the ratatouille to do this paste spread out on the plate. $29 for a lobster roll? Go to ICOB where it is cheaper. Most oysters around $3.50?!? Got no time for this S*#&! Wayyy too expensive. There are other places that are just as good and cheaper.
(3)Mr T.
B&G Oysters was very accomodating for a walk-in by my group even on Mother's day. We were able to find seating outdoors, at the bar or indoor tables. The wait staff was very good about bring our meals out on time and knew the menu very well. We ordered the Atlantic cod, the sugar snap pea salad with mint, house-made ricotta, and the oyster 'hi-rise' plate. The fish was perfectly cooked. The salad was fresh and appetizing. The oysters were amazing with the options of dressings. Next time around, however, I will be hesitant to order the little neck clams as part of the 'hi-rise' plate because there seemed to be more sand and grit than usual. Overall, we had a great time and will be visiting again for our next seafood outing.
(4)Amanda K.
Came here for lunch yesterday. Raw bar stuff is on point. Accompanied by the beautiful spring weather of Boston. Food: We ordered the crabmeat cocktail from the raw bar and it was delicious. Also got oysters of the day, they were so sweet, juicy and fresh. For entree, I got the house made crab tagliatelle and was blown away. My friend ordered the Atlantic blue cod and she said it tastes absolutely amazing. Service: spot on, very attentive and friendly. Atmosphere: I wish it has more open space. Like the Legal seafood down by the harbor. After all, when a seafood place has a "seafood" and more opened space feel, it makes the experience more congruent with the food, if that makes sense. Because of the tight space, I took a star away. Also, reservation is a must because this place gets packed. I will definitely come back but only with reservation and small group.
(4)P C.
Went for a few oysters and couple of drinks. Oysters are at a premium of $3+ each. Higher than downtown Boston. Menu prices very expensive and wonder if worth the cost. Presentation of some dishes being prepared looked quite nice. Friendly oyster bar staff.
(3)Jon G.
The oysters were phenomenal, and the service was great, too. Why 3 stars? Because it's way overpriced. You don't need to pay $3.50 per bivalve in Boston. Go to Legal's or Local 149. Draft beer was $9. And my $35 fish n' chips prix fixe lunch amounted to three fish nuggets and fries. Delicious nuggets, I'm not saying they weren't. But come on, it's lunch. For $35 there'd better be magic in there, because I can get better beer battered fish in pretty much any Irish pub in this town for half the price.
(3)Peter I.
If I could give 6 or 7 stars I would. Just an outstanding well rounded meal. Started with the peach salad and it perfect as was the snap pea salad. Just get this to share it and you'll thank me. Your welcome! Oysters were a variety plate and all briny and fresh. Again just about heaven. I had the swordfish which was life changing, small but delish. Friends had the fried clams and lobster roll, both got raves. Service was spot on. Great area to hang after. Great night! Thanks B&G. I'll be back.
(5)Etianne M.
Every bite was so delicious, small portions, don't expect to walk out feeling stuffed. The al la carte menu and oyster menu is fantastic . The house ceviche is very authentic Peruvian style, with very fresh fish and a perfectly spicy leche de Tigre. Awesome.
(5)July W.
Been there several days ago. That's my first time there and I didn't know where the door was. A server walked out to grab something. She saw me and my friend looking around trying to find the door but didn't point it to us (no sign of door). Love their oysters. But the lobster roll was a bit disappointed.
(4)Nicky F.
The restaurant is pretty small, it is better if you make a reservation beforehand. Luckily it was too cold outside there weren't that many customers in the restaurant today. We got the bar seats. We ordered the seafood platter which was about $47, see picture. It was worth it, the oysters were great and they face quiet a few shrimps. Everything was fresh, just perfect! I ordered the lobster roll, personally thought it was not as good as the ones in Neptune oysters. It was small compared to the other ones I've got, but maybe because this was a lunch menu. I would not recommend you to get the lobster roll here. My friend ordered the moules frites and she said it was good. It was big and fresh. The waiter is kind of awkward, it looks like she wants to rush us through the meal asking if we want to order more or are we done, constantly. Best thing about this place would probably be the oysters.
(3)Kaia T.
Small hole in the wall place. Stopped in here for lunch. The kitchen is very open with a wrap around seating area / bar - similar to a diner style, but more upscale. We ordered calamari, shrimp cocktail and fried oysters for the table. The shrimp cocktail were 6 pieces and enormous!! The fried oysters had a unique sauce underneath between the shell and oyster - had a good kick to it. Nothing special about the calamari, although it was good. I ordered the clam chowder and it was amazing. I highly recommend ordering this if you're looking for something light. There were chunks of clam and had pieces of ham in the dish. The ham added a sweet flavor to the soup. Cute place. Good service. Great food.
(4)Jennifer C.
Its very small inside and hard to get around. But I loved the decor. Oyster selection was robust and the ones we tried were delicious!! Also had a great wine selection. Was a little disappointed in the menu... Not much to choose from on there and very little variety (I get it. I get it. Its an oyster bar. But it was short and boring).
(4)Lillian C.
I had wanted to try this place for a while after seeing all the reviews. Came by on a Sat around 7? and had to walk around for a bit because there was a bit of a wait. The bar and outside is first come first serve so we were able to get a table outside. There were heat lamps, but it still got a little chilly towards the end. We started with a dozen of the mixed oysters. All of them were pretty fresh and on par with other places in Boston. For my main I had the squid ink pasta. The dish came and my first thought was... hm... the portion is pretty small for what you're paying for. I mean, it was good, but not amazing. It definitely wasn't worth the price tag associated, but I understand it's the ambiance and reputation of the restaurant. Bottom line, it's a nice place with good seafood, but you're definitely paying a premium for the food.
(3)Hanae K.
Lobster not worth the price. Bread isn't as buttery. Winner is the clam chowder. Thin soup, which supposedly is the "real kind" of chowda. Meat was chewy. Spicy puff croutons had a good kick. Great vibe, especially the outside. Bathroom is located downstairs, you have to go down the spiral staircase (which might get a bit scary if you're tipsy). I appreciate that they called me to see if I wanted to come earlier than the the time I rsvp'd for because spots opened up. If you're eating close to closing time, expect to be seated indoors. They closed off the patio by the time we showed up. Service was a bit slow.
(3)Dave T.
Pricey for what you get. Wife and I came up to Boston for a seafood filled weekend and were disappointed in what you get. Some of the oysters she got were so small they should never have been served. $29 for small minced up (not even chunks) lobster roll??? Clam chowder was really good I have to say though. Go to Neptune Oyster in the North End for a way better experience.
(2)Tiffany C.
Meh. This place was overrated. It's overpriced too for the taste. If you want really tasty and well leaned out oysters I recommend going to Island Creek Oyster Bar or Neptune Oyster. B&G Oyster doesn't compare. My boyfriend choked on a piece of shell in an oyster that they didn't clean out well. Also the oysters tasted a bit sandy. Fish wise, I thought the taste was just average. It wasn't cooked spectacularly. Go somewhere else for seafood and oysters. Even the interior decor is very mediocre. I would think for a restaurant at this price point they would've spent more on decorating. Reminds me of a older run down Johnny Rockets.
(3)Alvin J.
I came here thrice already ever since I landed in Boston, due to quality and also convenience. I enjoyed my experience here with the Brazine, Swordfish, Tuna, Salmon classic entrees. I also got a chance to experience their oysters, Penn very delicious, very balanced and paired well with white wine. I also have to note that Brazine was the highlight of my night. It will take some time to devour the Brazine as it contains tiny-pokey bones, balanced well witht their famous vinegar infused red-peppers honey dressing. I have delayed recall bias here, so I recommend trying all of them. I may swing by again later to try others on the menu like Salmon pepitto, etc. !!! A+++ Wait time is hell though if you come with a big party, you should reserve in advance.
(5)Cyndi H.
Best food I have had at a restaurant!! Recommend shorty stack and mousse! The best fried clams EVER!!!
(5)Mark W.
Quality of the food was outstanding, but portions are incredibly small. This may work for you but need to duly note.
(4)Luke S.
Came here for our wedding anniversary. We made our reservation through opentable and we didn't wait too long to get a table on a Saturday night. The oyster was fantastic. Nice selection with oysters from both coast. We ordered 2 dozens and stilThe hote items were not as impressive as the oysters. Fried calamari was too greasy. The squid ink meatball pasta was so-so and the portion size was not what you expected for a $30 pasta entree. Overall based on this visit I would recommend this place ONLY for the oysters. Would try the raw bar sampler next time.
(4)Addie M.
I like this place overall. My fiance came last night around ten or so. We did massachusetts and baltimore oysters, the croquettes, the squash and arugula salad and the mousse dessert. Everything tasted great. But all of our items were removed from the table without asking. My fiances knife was taken with the oysters/empty bread plates and we weren't finished with the croquettes. I needed to use the bathroom, and when I came back, the mousse was thrown away. Not cool, I shouldn't have paid for a dessert I didn't finish eating . I would've given five stars if the support staff asked to remove items before quickly doing so.
(3)Victoria S.
This is easily becoming my new favorite place in town. Full transparency I'm not a huge oyster fan but this place has the potential to make me one. Besides the obvious raw bar selection which changes daily, the fried oysters are amazing! I usually don't order fried but these are a must try. The snow pea salad was also delicious and I like that they will split it for 2. Honestly the branzino is the best thing they offer on the menu (I haven't tried the lobster roll). I've tried a few other things on the menu and you can't go wrong with any of the seafood options. Cute atmosphere and nice/attentive waitstaff....I highly recommend coming here if you're looking for a good seafood place in the south end. Definitely make reservations or come early for a bar seat.
(4)Yumi K.
The food and atmosphere at B&G is amazing! The restaurant itself has a relaxed, high class feel without loud conversations. The food here is to die for. I don't usually like oysters (Although I do love clams), but after eating here, I changed my mind for sure! For entrees, we got the swordfish and the lobster sandwich. Let me just say, the lobster sandwich was delicious and well worth the price! Even the fries that came with it was delicious! And of course, we can't overlook the oysters. They were very fresh and did not smell at all. Our server was very knowledgeable on the menu and recommended us wines to pair nicely with our entrees. In addition, she recommended us delicious oysters since some of the people in our party didn't like seafood (they sure changed their mind after B&G!)
(5)Teresa C.
The oysters are BOMB. Either the places we've ate at while were here are great for oysters or Boston knows it's oysters. I liked the onset most. We also had fried oysters which came with a well raved tartar sauce. Cod croquettes were crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside mhmm. My snap pea salad was even liked by my veggie hater bf. A friend enjoyed the cauliflower soup which I would have had not I seen the fish and chips being brought out to someone else. Someone else had the monkfish which came with a huge sausage (thumbs up). The food, service and ambiance was awesome. It looked like most of the patrons were there for a business dinner. We were very casual lol. Our waiter was an upbeat guy. Gold star for you :D
(4)Adriana K.
I was kind of disappointed with this place. Good was expensive for what it was. Cod was good but missed something more substantial than just 2 pieces of fingerling potato and leeks in a beer broth. My husband order fried clams with fries. Nothing special that you cant find in any good bar in Boston. Wouldn't go back...
(3)Leyani L.
Very cute spot they got here in a nice neighborhood. I recommend everyone grabbing a seat at the patio if you can. The fried oysters were to die for. I recommend dipping the complementary bread into the sauce of the fried oysters, simply delicious!! The Parm Mac & Cheese with peas and bacon was delicious as well as all three desserts they have are to die for; & of course the Oysters: the most fresh, delicate, delicious and exquisite item in the menu. Very very good dinner I had here. Loved the place, décor, ambiance & service.
(5)Jen B.
Not only the best oysters & lobster rolls in the city (beats Neptune, hands down), but just my favorite little place in the city. Sit at the bar and order their house Gruner made just for them. The service from the amazing staff is just great and so friendly, and the food can't be beat. I love this little place. Always my 1st stop off the plane when I visit Boston.
(5)Jennifer C.
I came here based on the reputation of the chef, expecting high prices and hopefully, noteworthy food. My boyfriend and I got the squid ink pasta and the lobster roll. The squid ink pasta was a seasonal dish and cost about $26, the lobster roll is always on the menu and costs about $29. I had a bite of the lobster roll, it was good but not anything I would call spectacular. There are many other places in New England or just Boston that you could get just as good of a lobster roll for much less than that price. And if it hadn't been for the squid ink pasta, this restaurant would have received less stars, but the squid ink pasta does exist. I had it on friday night for dinner and here on sunday afternoon, post lunch, I am still thinking about it and how I must return before the pasta is no longer on the menu!! The pasta and squid was soooo soft you ALMOST couldn't discern between them, but you could which made it all the more better. It had a little hit of acidity that pushed the flavors over the top and a little crisp on top to give the texture a change here and there. Im still going through my schedule in my head to see when I could stop by even if it's for take out. The best pasta I have ever had and if you have a chance, ORDER IT.
(5)Christine N.
B&G oysters has a pretty good selection of oysters. I've been here before with my family and came again tonight in a larger group. We asked the waitress for "big and salty" oysters and we also had some cherrystone clams. The oysters, while some were not as big as we expected, they were salty and still delicious. The cherrystones were enormous and so good! I had the tuna tartare to start and it was delicious. While portions are a little on the small side, the quality of the tuna was phenomenal. I got to try the clam chowder and I didn't think it was anything special. I felt that it could be a little creamier and thicker. And perhaps just another dash or 2 of salt and pepper since it was a little under seasoned. I got the lobster roll as my main course and I just love lobster rolls. I felt this one could've used just a sprinkle more of seasoning but the sweetness of the lobster was fresh and delicious. Other people got the cod and halibut and salmon. Everyone enjoyed their meals except for the salmon. I tried it and it tasted... Off. The purée was a weird color and while it didn't taste awful, it wasn't particularly good either. Another person got the crab fra diavolo and that was alright. To be honest, the portions here are a bit small. This is the kind of place that you're playing quality over quantity. You end up paying a nice chunk of change and still feeling like you could eat some more.
(3)Olivia W.
Well, I didn't understand why this place seems to be so popular. I really wish I would love it more since I am a big oyster lover and just moved to Southend neighborhood. It would be perfect if we have a good oyster bar in a walking distance. Unfortunately I wasn't impressed with this place. The oysters priced $2.5 and up. We ordered 2 dozen, with some cheaper ones and some fancy ones. Oysters are pretty small in general, some of them are pretty sad in size--not the meaty and sweet kind of oysters I was expecting. That's a huge disappointment. We also ordered a fried shrimp appetizer upon the waitress's recommendation but did not taste/find any shrimp meat in it. Wine was ok though. I may try this place one more time...if anything changes I will update my review.
(2)Jessica H.
Great oysters, lobster roll is top notch. Only downside is - only beer and wine.
(4)Tara T.
Honestly, I'm surprised this place has such great reviews. It was pretty so-so. We got there around 8 on a Saturday night and we managed to get a table in the corner for 3. We ordered some cherrystone clams, clam chowder, and three mains. The clams were huge, but one of them was a really weird color. The waitress noticed us commenting on it but didn't offer to change it. The mains came, and they were pretty small portions and under seasoned. I would even go as far to say, bland. We had the crab diavolo, cod, and sea bass. Definitely not worth the price (~$28 each). The experience overall was pretty mediocre. Don't think I'll ever be going back though. I can get much better seafood at Atlantic Fish or Row 34 for the same price.
(3)Chris W.
We chose B&G based on reviews and looked forward to a nice birthday dinner for my wife. We were so disappointed in the slow and indifferent service. We had to wait for our drinks, wait for refills, and were left waiting for someone to take our entree order so long that we just asked a busser for our check. Our table was right next to the host station, we had discussed the choices of entrees with him and he seemed unconcerned with our early departure. They weren't busy. It was just lousy service. We took our business elsewhere and had a lovely time. The Oysters were killer good I have to admit. We were disappointed to leave but when I sit with an empty glass for over ten minutes... I get impatient I guess.
(2)Guy T.
A delightfull business diner Appetizer of raw bar fried oysters and calamari excellent Blue Cod was to die for Will return in the very near future
(5)Alex T.
This past visit was my first visit to B&G Oysters, and I must say, I will definitely be back. Although somewhat pricey, the quality of the food is well worth it. My friend and I had a dozen oysters and the bouillabaise. Oysters were fresh and the bouillabaise was delicious, albeit somewhat different in preparation than at most other restaurants I've been. As far as service, the the server was able to give a brief but detailed profile of each oyster for making an informed order, and he checked in frequently to make sure my friend's and my requests were met. Ambience and decor were simple and appropriate. As for the noise, it was very quiet, but I imagine that night was an anomaly due to the Superbowl game that was going on concurrently. All-in-all, my friend and I had a great dining experience at B&G Oysters.
(5)Rebecca K.
Headed there after a particularly bad work day yesterday. I was craving oysters and a glass of wine. They're one of the few places in New England that consistently carries West Coast oysters, which have a different texture and flavor than East Coast so I try to order them when I can. Sat at the bar and chatted with the bartender about the days oysters. I ordered 6 based on her recommendations and they were perfect. Beautifully shucked, which is important! I don't want to wrestle with extracting the oyster from the shell; they should arrive completely shucked so you can simply slurp them out of the shell. A glass of white wine and their chowder completed my meal. Their chowder is one of my favorites, and includes bacon lardons, a bounty of fresh clams, perfectly cooked potatoes and is not too heavy or creamy. Note: I often go to B & G Oysters alone - I was alone last night - and it's a marvelous place to dine by yourself. Sit at the bar, which overlooks the kitchen and you'll see all the action. I'm always treated well and fell completely comfortable as a solo diner.
(4)Tiffany W.
Tucked away in a residential corner, B&G is positioned below street level so you'll have to walk down the steps to get to the front door. Upon entering, you'll have either two thoughts: 1) wow, it's so cozy! or 2) wow, it's so small and crowded. For me, it was the latter. I like having space in between me and other random patrons, but luckily my boyfriend and I came to dine at 3pm on a Saturday afternoon so the restaurant was fairly empty. Don't fret too much, though, because they do have a patio deck which is a lot bigger and can easily accomodate a larger group. For being part of Barbara Lynch's gruppo, the restaurant was far more casual than I expected but it did allow for a more comfortable dining experience. The staff and service was quite excellent, as was the food. I thoroughly enjoyed everything I had to eat, and I definitely recommend it all. First were the oysters. Prices are definitely steep, but every penny was worth it. We tried several different oysters, but a few of my favorites are as followed: 1. Gigamoto - Yes, these babies are *extremely* tiny compared to other oysters and they're also priced a little higher BUT they were absolutely fantastic. It was a little sweet at first, almost like candy, but then the saltiness kicks in, and that mix of sweet and salty made for a superb finish. 2. Peconic Bay - Another oyster with that sweet at first but then a little salty at the end, but the big difference is that there isn't a mix and the different taste is quite distinct. 3. Salish Sea - A coppery finish. Gotta have those! 4. Rocky Shore - I also tried these at Atlantic Fish Co. but somehow, I found that the ones at B&G tasted much better. Aside from the oysters, the bf and I also shared: 5. Clam Chowder - HOLY CLAMS. There was so much and they were so good! The chili powdered piece of bread accompanying the chowder was a nice touch, but what differentiates B&G's clam chowder from others is the soup... er, chowder. Okay, it was practically soup. Chowder is typically thick and creamy, but this clam chowder was definitely all broth. At first, it was a small let-down but I enjoyed the soup a lot. But like I said before, the real treat is the clams. 6. Fried Oysters - Delicately fried and atop a row of salt-like rocks (maybe they were salt rocks?), each oyster sat back on its half shell in a bed of this amazingly delicious sauce that just makes the fried oyster melt in your mouth. Ohhh, it was heaven.
(4)Gary L.
-Sugar snap pea salad: I'm not a fan of salad but this was great. Vinaigrette wasn't overpowering and you got a bit of cheese and onions in every bite. -Fried calamari: Not greasy, and the aioli is a great complement. Not very spicy aioli, though. -Lobste
(5)Graham H.
Goods oysters, calamari and chowder. Couple good beers on draft. Portions were small and B&G is pricey. Better idea than dinner at B&G- start at Butcher Shop across the street for Charcuterie and then a light dinner at B&G.
(4)john d.
Nice place, interesting food, nice staff. One gripe: The place is tiny. Came in with someone (just the two of us) and they either wanted us to sit at the "teeny tiny table for two" wedged into the corner area....or sit at the bar (which is not a fun thing to do on a date i.e...facing away from each other.) The bar had too many seats all right up against each other. The larger table were all open....but they were "reserved for parties of 3 or more". I understand managing a small inventory of tables is difficult....and you don't want two people using the larger tables when a party of 3 or 4 are waiting...but I think you should be forewarned about the size of the place....and is not hospitable to parties of 2. Any questions private message me.
(3)Thomas Y.
I was visiting Boston from NYC for PAX East. This place came highly recommended by my cousin, who went to school in the area, so we decided to give it a try. When you arrive, you walk down a stairwell into the small, cozy, and well designed restaurant in the lower area. I believe in the summer there is outdoor seating as well. First of all, I didn't realize that there were so many different types of oysters! We ordered a dozen and a half of various oysters to share, and I ordered a bowl of clam chowder and a lobster roll. The clam chowder was very flavorful, rich, and complex in flavor. It's definitely the best clam chowder I've ever had. The clam meat was plentiful and juicy. The oysters came out on a bed of ice with cocktail sauce, horseradish, and lemon. They were extremely fresh and I could definitely taste the subtle differences in the oysters. Best oysters I've ever had in my life! The lobster roll had a very generous amount of juicy, succulent lobster, lightly seasoned on a slightly sweet bun. It was served with crispy french fries with ketchup and a pile of juicy pickle slices. The service was great! Very friendly and effective. Definitely make reservations if you want to try this place. +2 stars for oysters +1 star for clam chowder +1 star for lobster roll +1 star for service
(5)Maggie K.
I decided to try this place after hearing so much about it. My experience was mediocre at best. The service was lacking; I had to ask for drinks myself, and to order the entrees and the server seemed genuinely uninterested. We got some oysters on the shell, fried oysters, the crab fra diabolo, and the lobster roll. 1. Raw oysters. The oysters were exquisite! They smelled like the sea and had incredibly fresh flavor. I probably should have stuck to the raw oysters; they are the only thing I would go back for, 2. Fried oysters. They were very light and perfectly fried. The sauce complemented them beautifully. 3. The crab fra diabolo. This dish was disappointing. The crab itself was incredibly flavorful and delicate. The fresh cavatelli (pasta) destroyed the dish because it was very undercooked. I love my pasta al dente but that was borderline raw. The sauce was really nice, tomatoey, and with a spicy kick. Overall, the dish had the potential to be amazing if the pasta was cooked properly. 4. The lobster roll. It was tasty, but for the $30 price tag I was nothing outside the ordinary. It was just a good lobster roll. Nothing more, nothing less. 5. Desserts. We ordered the banana parfait and the Black Forest cake. The parfait was yummy although served in a tall glass and difficult to eat. The Black Forest cake was dry and not that chocolatey. The whipped cream was very heavy but the cherry sauce had a great balance of sweetness and tartness. Overall, this restaurant is not worth the $$$. If you want a raw oyster dinner though it's perfect! Just stick to that!
(3)Kate L.
Amazing service. Adorable patio. The best wine recommendation I have ever had based on what I described I wanted. AMAZING cucumber gazpacho healthy and rich and flavorful. Bathroom is hard to get to alllll the way down the windy stairs but would def go back!
(5)Mac D.
Best oysters this side of the country! Dont sleep on this quaint little spot.. fish and chips is perfect. Try the local libations.
(5)Scott J.
We dined here for lunch on a Saturday afternoon (8/17/13) without reservations. It was an easy walk from our Back Bay hotel (Lenox Hotel) and we arrived right at noon and were the first ones seated, so we were fortunate to grab a great seat in their outdoor patio section (which quickly filled up). The service was SPECTACULAR. Our waitress (blonde hair, glasses, VERY friendly and knowledgeable) provided top notch service. She was clearly an expert on the wine list, gave us an outstanding suggestion (a Riesling of all things) and did let us try a quick sample. She made sure our meal was paced perfectly, our glasses remained full, we were satisfied with each selection all while being in the background to allow us a casually romantic experience. We started with oysters (at an oyster place after all) and noticed that there were 6 varieties from Massachusetts so we went with 2 of each for a perfect hometown dozen. They arrived prepared perfectly, with a little card notating what we had selected and how they were laid out (in a clockwise spiral fashion). We like to keep track of which ones we like so this was a nice little touch. They were all delicious and we did note a couple favorites. Our main course was the lobster roll. We had done a quick search for 'best lobster roll in boston' prior to selecting this establishment and upon seeing the photo of the roll and realizing that it was not weighted down with tons of mayo or other slaws, we knew it was what we wanted to try. Well...let's say it delivered on all levels!!! What a perfect blend of nicely cooked chunks of lobster in a buttered hot dog bun with just a touch of seasoning on top. It may sound a bit plain but wow it works SO well...the lobster taste dominates every bite and leaves you wanting more. (It was 3 days ago and I'm craving another one). Heck, the fries were so perfectly prepared with a touch of parsley and cooked just right. We could not pass up the unique panna cotta dessert that was covered with salty caramel and bits of popcorn...kind of like eating cracker jacks mixed with awesome caramel and that light panna cotta goodness. Yes it's a bit pricey but sometimes you get what you pay for. I'd rather pay a few bucks more for a lobster roll and oysters and have them in such a perfectly serviced environment. Was a GREAT way to experience a fantastic meal in a totally non-pretentious environment where you got to feel a bit like a local. B&G is a must do in my opinion and will be the first place I dine when I return to Boston someday. Side note: They are an Open Table restaurant and instantly knew about redeeming the 'travelers check' style rewards you get for cashing out points.
(5)Siddharth P.
Genuinely fresh tasting seafood. Very fine dining! A little too pricey for me. Had a great time though. Sampled fresh caught oysters off of different parts of the north american coastlines, tried their award winning clam chowder(amazing!), and also had the maine lobster roll(probably the best I've had). All in all, a great experience not to be missed, if someone else is paying, which in my case was me :(
(4)Dan G.
B&G Oysters has been my hangout in Boston for several years now. The quality of the food and friendliness of the staff is what brings me here. The prices are high...as is everything else in Boston it seems...but you can't go wrong. The place is cozy and, because of the limited seating, can get a little loud. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon before the crowds arrive.
(4)Cosmo X.
Nice selection of oysters,, cozy place, parking is tough but worth a special occasion visit.
(4)Landon W.
Wow, this place! We were visiting from out of town and stopped here on the recommendation of a friend who lives in Boston. As a huge fan of oysters and of Boston cuisine, I had really high hopes for this place. And it delivered! The restaurant has an indoor dinging area as well as a nice patio outside. My understanding is that the patio is first come, first served. If you plan to sit inside, you would be wise to make a reservation because the tables are limited. We had an awesome table that looked out to the street. Very cool atmosphere here. There is also the U-shaped bar where folks can sit and watch the cooks prepare the food. You will find beer and wine only here. They had a decent beer selection although I was a bit surprised that there weren't more options. Not a problem, though! The food is what we came for and by god the food is what we loved. We were given a sheet listing all of the different varieties of oysters available, from Washington to Rhode Island to Massachusetts. We picked a variety of them, and I must say the local ones were my favorites! Be prepared to drop a fair amount of cash on that deliciousness as the oysters run from $2-4 each. Bottom line, best oysters I've had! We'll be back!
(5)Judy L.
Everything tasted great! Oysters - fresh, delicious. Can't go wrong with them. Fried oysters appetizer - delicious as well. Very different from the fresh ones. I'd recommend getting them! Hake entree - the fish was so soft and tasty! It was a "melt-in-your-mouth" kind of dish. Yum. Lobster roll - very refreshing. I may like this even more than the lobster roll at Neptune's. Lobster BLT - very flavorful. I preferred the lobster roll to the BLT because the BLT was dripping with buttery sauce. A bit too unhealthy for me, but very scrumptious. Excellent service.
(5)Rob B.
You just can't have too many lobster rolls in a weekend in Boston. I had thought my favorite was to be found at Neptune's Oyster and nothing here to disparage that marvelous entree but the hot summer day made the B & G lobster roll perfect! This lobster roll is not made with mayo but a herb-ed vinaigrette that made the flavor of the seafood shine! Fries were equally good and at 2:30pm there was plenty of room at the bar. I'll be back!
(5)Emily W.
The food, atmosphere, and service at B&G are all outstanding. I've lived in the South End for several years, and there is no shortage of great places to eat, but B&G still stands out. The raw bar is wonderful. Our server made terrific recommendations according to our tastes. Don't miss the crabmeat cocktail; it's exceptional. So were the monkfish and swordfish entrees. Honestly, you can't go wrong here. If you walk in and there aren't any tables available, put your name in and take a walk around the neighborhood. It's worth the wait.
(5)Adam B.
The current "market price" of the BLT w/ Lobster is $39. To me, that's way too high. I ordered two for take-out and when they handed me the receipt my knees buckled. I fully admit it's my fault for not asking the market price when I called in our order, but I'm posting this so no one else makes the same mistake.
(2)Christine H.
Not sure how I feel about the rave reviews about B&G. I ordered 4 different oysters which were all very fresh but they were all really salty. They were not shucked properly so it was hard to slurp them out of the shell and their were bits of shell left. Service was eh.. It was empty in there (about 7 other diners in the middle of the day) and they still managed to make me feel I was bothering them. I would rather splurge at Neptune Oyster which had a bigger variety of oysters and better service.
(3)Sarah S.
the only thing greater than the food was Hilary, our waitress. She was so friendly and down to earth, had great recommendations for a rose. We'll definitely be back the next time we're in town.
(5)Cath M.
Came here for lunch with two of my coworkers... scorching Boston weather! I ordered the steamed mussels and it was a huge portion... which I ate all myself. It was tasty but a tad bit spicy... definitely cleared my congested nose. Friendly staff... Definitely worth checking out!
(4)Liana K.
I'm sad to report my recent visit was a disappointment. Maybe it was because it was cold and restaurant week but things were off. We came in at 2:15 on a Sunday for lunch. We got the Chef's oysters for 10 bucks and then... well the waitress kinda forgot about us. Suddenly 35 minutes later we get the scallops with our appetizer of Clam Chowder never arrived. I mention it to the girl who brought it over (different from our waitress) who ran back with the scallops without another word or apology. We wait another 10 minutes and finally clam chowder comes out with overcooked inedible clams. Our waitress then apologize but the whole interaction was awkward. The base of the soup was delicious and it really was a shame the clams tasted like shoe rubber. Neither my boyfriend nor I ate one and no comment was made. The scallops were perfect and delicious thus bringing this rating for 1 to a 3. The dessert, chocolate moose and pound cake were each great and I have no complaints. So I'll be returning, I still love you B&G, the food was great for the most part and it was a shame the clam chowder ruined the meal because hours later I still taste the icky clams.
(3)Barbara B.
A delightful neighborhood spot with a backyard patio. We selected this place being in the mood for oysters and we were pleased with the number of offerings - Mass, PEI, Rhode Island originations. We selected several appetizers - the smoked shrimp beignets, cannelloni filled with whipped butternut squash and crabmeat (very well done, included diced squash as well as whipped, which created a great textural contrast) and the arugula salad. All were delightful - highly recommend the cannelloni. Service was great, the staff worked to find indoor seating when it started to sprinkle. They were very informed on the oysters, and how each menu selection was prepared. Very satisfying experience.
(4)Jennie C.
I'm still kicking myself for not getting a dozen oysters while I was here... Flew into Boston early because it's restaurant week, and this was my first stop. Tiny place, no wonder they said they were all booked when I tried to make reservations. Thankfully there was a spot at the bar....right by the oysters...and I drooled the whole time they were shucking oysters, but I thought I must control myself because I got another big meal coming up for dinner. Tried the fluke crudo, scallops and pound cake from the RW menu. The fluke was ok, I thought the fish was a bit warm and bland, but maybe my palate was a bit dull from the early flight. The scallops, on the other hand, were out of this world. First of all, I got 3 giant scallops! That plate in itself is worth the price of the entire meal. They were prefectly caramelized (though strangely only on 1 side), and just a weebit translucent on the inside. So sweet and juicy. Also loved the texture of the farro it was paired with. Dessert, unfortunately, was a letdown. The pound cake was so dry and hard I worried I was gonna crack the plate when I cut into it. If I ever visit Boston again, I'm so trying the oysters!
(4)Brad M.
AWESOME place.. Wife and I stopped in for their famous lobster role. We were not disappointed! It's not cheap but the value is there for what you get. We also decided to get one each of the daily special oysters. They ranged from local east coast to west coast. Highly recommend this place.
(4)dan w.
This is mainly an oyster place- and the oysters are fresh and briny. Also excellent are the french fries and the chowder. The wine list really complements the oysters. It is pretty much down hill from there. The main courses are mediocre and overpriced and the coffee (no espresso or cappuccino) could come from a diner.
(3)Christa S.
Amazing oyster selection, cool atmosphere, great entrees. This place does not disappoint! I like sitting at the bar and eating there and watching them work.
(5)Rob G.
Visited for dinner, for the first time, on Friday night. Did not disappoint! B & G is an oyster lovers paradise, with a dozen different oyster varieties plus clams and other fresh, local and international seafood offerings. We enjoyed a massive pile of oysters on the half she'll, squid ink and grilled calamari pasta, and a monkfish entree special. Everything was fresh, tasty and expertly prepared. The restaurant is noisy and has an upbeat, energetic vibe, so if you're looking for a quiet, romantic meal, this is not the right spot. But if you enjoy the buzz of a busy, vibrant atmosphere, than you'll love it! Beware: there is no bar, so if you don't have a reservation or arrive early, there isn't really anyplace to wait. We were early and they sent us across the street to Barbara Lynch's other South End place, the Butcher Shop. Ten mins later, they called to say our table was ready... Right on time. The staff was friendly and efficient, and our server informative, fun and professional. It's not an inexpensive restaurant, though given the seafood (much of which was raw) I wouldn't expect or want to find a bargain. For entertaining a guest or to satisfy a seafood fantatic, B & G is really quite fabulous.
(5)Kel S.
I'm glad we went for restaurant week. The food was good, but too expensive to pay full price (for my budget, anyway.) The wine selection made it difficult to find a reasonably priced glass. The service was decent. It was a fun treat to get to, but with all the restaurants in Boston, not sure I will rush back.
(4)Suzanne C.
Love this place. Our service was incredible - lovely and nice. It's a casual spot that I would definitely go back to! We had: Variety of oysters Shrimp cocktail (they were giant!) Fried oysters Fried calamari Fish & Chips BLT Lobster roll Lobster roll Red leaf salad Everything was fab! The batter on the fried foods was light and not greasy. The fish was all very fresh. The consensus was that the BLT lobster roll was better than the regular lobster roll. The regular was great, but the BLT was extra special. They only do regular coffee - but it was very good.
(4)Allen H.
Seats are not comfortable enough. Appetizers are better than entrees. Overprice I'm terms of the quality of the food.
(3)Stomping S.
Excellent cold/mayo lobster roll, full of flavor. Exceptional heirloom tomato salad. Have been twice, loved it both times. But still haven't tried the oysters. My fault.
(4)Julie B.
If I had to pay for this I probably would've given it 4 stars but I was lucky enough to be wined and dined, so 5 stars it is! My date made us a reservation for 7:30 on a Thursday night and it was totally packed when we got there. We were immediately sat at a cute corner table with a view overlooking the kitchen. Perfect for watching the oyster-shucking action. I loved the set up at B & G. It's pretty small (with the kitchen taking up almost half the restaurant) but cozy and intimate. Diners can sit at the wraparound bar or at tables. One thing I did find interesting was that the music playing was definitely "kitchen music" -- I think we even heard a couple of old school Eminem songs. Not complaining, but definitely something I noticed. We came for the oysters and oysters is what we got. We ordered a variety which were all SO delicious. They did forget to include one type of oyster but it was no biggie. Besides that little mishap our service was excellent -- the waiter was patient and attentive from start to finish. For my entree I ordered fried clams (because I can't resist a plate of fried food even in the classiest of atmospheres) and my date ordered the hake. The clams were fried to perfection and served with heaping portions of french fries, coleslaw and a big pile of pickles (!!) -- these people know how to woo me. I think my date liked his meal because I caught him licking his plate when he thought I wasn't looking. We're not going out again... I wanted to get dessert but was too full to move. Will have to wait until next time!
(5)Laila B.
I really wanted to eat here during my all-too brief stay in Boston. Unfortunately, I wanted to eat everywhere so by the time I got to lunch at B&G, I had already stopped for a mid-morning snack of several varieties of delightful oysters. Thus partially sated, I ordered the lobster roll. Quickly, I noticed a chef on the line making a beautiful halibut with some sort of broth and chanterelles. Because I had just ordered, I asked to change my lobster roll to the halibut, which they graciously agreed to. Oh Good Lord. It was so wonderful! I will definitely be back next time i'm in town, this time for a whole meal.
(4)Robert W.
Great , great oysters! Tastes of the sea. I had a dozen of all Maryland oysters and they were the freshest, serve with the usual condiments. The New England clam chowder while not cheap for a bowl, was the best I have ate and I have eaten a lot of "chowder". Not thick but loaded with clams and concentrated flavor with a killer crouton. Staff were friendly, helpful. Being Boston it is hard to tell if we had a safe free parking spot, but they keep an eye on our car to make sure we would not be ticketed. We will be back. We were there for lunch so it was not crowded.
(5)HT A.
A never fail place. Always bustling . Great staff who will send you over to the Butcher Shop for a relaxing glass of wine at the giant butcher block table and call you back over when your table is ready. Counter seating is preferable and fun and puts you in the action whether near the shucking station or near the chefs . Great selection of oysters with my favorites from PEI and Nova Scotia . Lobster BLT is a standby and I never seem to mind the price once I dig in. Wine list is always great , but my wish for a sancerre rarely comes true but there is a santorini greek white wine on the list .
(5)Erica R.
I love oysters and really wanted to try this place, so a friend booked a reservation for NYE to celebrate. When we arrived, we noticed what we thought was the front door wasn't actually the main door...and we discovered that it was just a walk around to the other side of the building. Oops! The restaurant had a couple small tables available, but we were seated in corner right next to the host/hostess stand. That said, it actually really felt like we were wedged in there. Since my back was to the host/hostess the entire night, I was randomly bumped a couple times. I was also super conscious of keeping my chair tighter to the table, since I didn't want to be in the way of the person at the stand behind me. It didn't really allow for a comfortable dining experience, unfortunately. Our waitress was nice, and when we asked about the oysters she would recommend, she gave us her pick. We weren't super familiar with any on the list, so we opted to try a mix of 4 different kinds. They were enjoyable, and if I were to visit this place again? It'd probably just be to have oysters. I also ordered the Lobster BLT for dinner, while my friend ordered the Lobster Roll itself. I don't know what I was expecting, but the Lobster BLT just...didn't do it for me. If anything, I considered the fries to be the tastiest part of the dish, which is weird because I love lobster! But I was just not enthusiastic about the taste of the sandwich. My friend mentioned at a certain point that his lobster roll wasn't really that great either...then we both thought back fondly on lobster rolls we had REALLY enjoyed at a different restaurant and agreed that's where we'd prefer to go back to from now on. Especially for the $$$-price range? We both expected much tastier meals at B&G. TL;DR Nice to try once, but wasn't comfortable or as tasty as expected. Price didn't equate to deliciousness.
(2)Stu A.
The setting is indeed an Oyster "Bar," as in when you enter it looks more like a bar than a restaurant with the counter seating, and several high top tables around the outer walls. Given the overall small size, reservations are tough to get but we went for early dinner and enjoyed it. Highlights included the cream of caulifloer soup with a great scallop in the middle of the bowl and a very well prepared swordfish (though at $29 it was a bit pricey for the size of the portion). The oyster selection was interesting in that more than half the options were not from New England. Service was generally attentive and they made a nice wine recommendation.
(4)Morten D.
We both had the Lobster Roll when we went here and it was amazing! The best Lobster Roll I have ever had. I often dream of eating that again. Only negative about the place is that there was only place for us outside and it was quite hot (100+ degrees), but when the food is that good we dont mind :)
(5)Jessica B.
Very attentive service and great food. I ordered the shrimp beignets and the seared tuna salad. I thought the shrimp beignets were alright but my boyfriend really enjoyed them, especially the sauce that came with it. The seared tuna salad had a great balance of flavors to it. My favorite dish was one my mom ordered--soft shell crab sandwich. That was deliciousss. Id definitely recommend.
(5)Emma I.
This place WOWed me. Excellent service and perfectly executed dishes. Enjoyed the beet dish with pistachio as well as the best swordfish I've ever had! Chocolate tablet for dessert (with homemade fluff) was impeccable. A Boston native and living in LA, B&G served up a totally memorable experience for me and my fam. Classy!
(5)Melanie M.
Came here for lunch on a weekday and sat at the bar. I love being able to watch the kitchen and they put on a great show. It's nice to know your food is being handled well. I got a few oysters from their raw bar and they were fantastic. I also got the lobster BLT as my main dish. They serve it with plenty of crispy fries. The lobter itself is served cold. The next time I got back, I think I will just try the plain lobster roll without the bacon, it distracted me from the lobster too much. It was also served on a very toasted bread, and I personally prefer a softer bread. All in all it was still very good. My sister ordered a fish dish and it was to die for. Perfectly cooked, moist and flaky. Mmmm. Probably much healthier too.
(4)Julie P.
I'm a huge seafood fan, but I've never really liked oysters. Then I came to B and G Oysters and discovered that I do like them! It was my birthday, and I wanted to be adventurous so I asked the waitress to suggest some oysters. She chose three different kinds, and I loved them all. They were fresh and salty and a great way to start off the meal. I had a bowel of the clam chowder, which was good. I agree with another reviewer who said that the spicy crouton was too spicy. I took one small bite and then passed it over to my husband. The clam chowder wasn't as creamy as the chowder I had at a few other places so it wasn't quite to my liking. Each restaurant seems to make their chowder a little different so don't expect to love every bowl of chowder while in Boston. I orderd the BLT with lobster, while my husband had the seared yellowfin tuna. The BLT is on thick, crusty bread; the bread seemed a little too thick for the filling. I think a softer or thinner roll would have been better. I'm from Oklahoma, and if there's one thing that our restaurants do really well, it's bacon so I wasn't overly impressed by the bacon in this BLT. The lobster was, of course, fantastic. In the end I ended up ignoring the bread and bacon and just ate the lobster with a fork. The French fries were okay; they were nothing to write home about. The pickles were great! The mild tartness of the pickles was a great contrast with the lobster, and I alternated almost every bite of lobster with a bite of pickle. My husband loved his tuna and raved about the pine nuts in the dish. Who knew pine nuts could be so tasty? If I ever get a chance to visit Boston again, then I would definitely go back to B and G Oysters, but I would probably keep it simple and just order the lobster roll.
(4)Fan L.
The food was very good,and the waitress served us was very nice. But the host was not kind````well,when we came in ,I asked for a table outside, but he said ppl are waiting for that over 1 hour,blabla```so we were arranged at a corner behind the reception. Then several ppl came in and the host always said so:"sorry, we dont have much table```but I'll check outside,```oh,come with me`````'`then they went to garden tables...,! My friend suggested me to give less tip, but I thought the food and our waitress were all good````so, as usual~
(4)CARLA S.
I really enjoyed they clam chowder. On our visit to boston, we had clam chowder at 4 separate restaurants. In order of preference 1. B&G, 2. Union House, 3. Island Creek, 4. Neptune. We had the lobster roll.
(4)Chah A.
Wine and oysters good, and expensive. Chowder was delicious w/ a tad too much bacon and bacon flavor. Watched chefs prepare everything with bare fingers/hands, including smushing down lobster salad into rolls. Hopefully, those same fingers/hands weren't used for wiping sweat off chef foreheads. :(
(3)Sebastian N.
I'm not sure why this spot is so jammed, it's an ok place, but not worth the hassle if you don't have reservations. The oysters were delicious, I'll give them that. I came for their legendary lobster roll, which was under seasoned and dry. The misses ordered the JONAH CRAB FRA DIAVOLO which was spectacular.
(3)Sarah T.
Slow service. Food was ok. Definitely better in Boston. Neptune is way better and cheeper.
(3)Back B.
On a Saturday night my wife and I were able to sit on the patio and enjoy the mild weather. For appetizers I tried the fresh crab and she had the clam chowder, both were great. I ended up ordering the lobster roll and she went with the fried clams for our main meals. The lobster roll was decent, not overly loaded with mayo, or celery, or added spices to the diced up and cubed lobster. The lobster meat tasted fresh, clean, and the bun itself was a simple hotdog roll, which was not buttered or heated up. I also ordered two German blonde beers, which were awesome. The stinging price tag in the end of your meal reminds you that the seafood you just ate is pricy because of shipping costs. Head to the cape for localized and less pricer seafood options. While in our beautiful home of Boston, B&G Oysters is a very good choice.
(5)Pennie A.
Came here for a family celebration and felt cheated by the time we left. When we arrived, we were told our table wasn't ready (even though we could see an empty table waiting) and were charmed into going to the butcher shop next door: "please have a glass of wine and we'll come get you in 15." After 25 minutes, I went back to b&g and found the same table (still) waiting. "Oh, didn't they tell you to your table was ready? Come back over and we'll take care of you!" But we ended up paying for our own wine next door--even though we were given the distinct impression we'd be comped for the inconvenience! The concession they made instead? An app of fried oysters that half of us couldn't eat due to allergies. While the food was overall delicious (with the exception of the uber expensive bland lobster roll--$37? Really??), we have a bad taste in our mouths and will definitely not be returning here again.
(3)Rachel N.
ZOMG how have I not reviewed B&G yet -- it's absolutely my favorite jam in Boston -- the place that after spending three years gorging myself on delicious food in the Bay Area, reaffirmed my faith I will still be able to get a decent meal in Boston every so often. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that it's right around the corner from my pad -- but I digress. If you eat seafood in any way, shape, or form, go to B&G. Stat. Obviously the oysters are baller, but it's really the cooked fish preparations that have blown me away. The plates are not only gorgeous, but the fish is consistently cooked to perfection and the accompanying veg/grains are outstanding. Recently, the lobster bisque that came w/ the halibut was "waiter, gimme some extra bread so I can get all this lusciousness off the plate" good, and the broth in which the mussels are cooked was also worth a unladylike slurp. The fried calamari is hands down the best I've ever eaten -- delicate and light, you can actually taste the little squidies as well as the glorious fried batter -- a win, win, winnnnn. Oh, the only mediocre part of B&G is the dessert -- recently, a chocolate cake was really just like a dry choco muffin (nast) -- I'd double up on savories here and then stroll to Picco for ice cream instead. I recommend making a res, as wait times can approach 90min on a Saturday night, but if you're willing to wait it out, head across the street to The Butcher Shop (BL's other venture in my gayborhood), grab some vino, and wait for your phone to ring announcing your table. Whether you're seated at the bar or at a table, service is friendly and attentive, but not oppressive. Din for 3-4 generally runs $75/pp, incl a bottle of wine + tip.
(5)Meatdowntown C.
It is okay but there are better places in the Boston area. The oysters were boring and the service was just okay. Limited wine list also. Nothing really memorable.
(3)Gene L.
Went to this place for Restaurant Week and loved it! My biggest pet peeve of restaurant week is when restaurants have an extremely limited RW menu or their portions are tiny. B & G Oysters was the opposite. They had wonderful selections to choose from for appetizer, entree, and dessert, and each plate was regular size and delicious. The scallops were delicious, and I would highly recommend them. It's nice to sit out on the patio on a beautiful day (but remember it is first come first serve for the patio!). Will have to come back to try their oysters one day!
(5)Cheryl C.
Great overall experience. We sampled a little bit of everything: East coast oysters - nice briny finish West coast oysters - strong melon flavor, very clean taste Overall, very similar to Neptune. The variety is a little better at Neptune, but the oysters at B&G are shucked to perfection. We've had some shell pieces here and there at Neptune. Fried oyster - solid dish, though the fried aspect takes away from the oyster flavor Calamari - large portion, great dipping sauce, standard calamari Fluke crudo - best thing we had besides the oysters, great components on the plate Chocolate mousse - a great finish to our night, the sea salt and olive oil are a nice touch We visited B&G again and have to recommend the Asparagus with egg - best thing all night. It was an extremely well composed dish. Asparagus was seasoned perfectly, the egg on top was crispy with a yolk center, it came with dried red pepper stripes and was just seasoned perfectly. We both agreed that it was the top dish of the night - beating out even those awesome oysters!
(5)T K.
I went for the oysters but I was AMAZED by the SUGAR SNAP PEA SALAD! You have to try it. I'll be back for seconds real soon.
(5)Danny T.
I saw B&G Oysters on an episode of Best Food Ever and really want to see if its Lobster Roll lived up to the hype. Reservation: I placed a reservation for a Wednesday night per the suggestion of the hostess, but I don't think it was absolutely necessary. There were plenty of tables when we got to our time slot. Inside: I thought that it was going to be a lot classier based on how the restaurant was presented on the show. That's not to say that it wasn't well kept by any means. It was a small place with bar and table seating. I think you can eat outside too. Service: Our waiter was great and was really enthused about the items on the menu. I don't think I ever had an empty glass of water, and he checked up on us regularly. Food: - New England Clam Chowder. A little on the runny side. Most of my party thought it was par at best; one being from the Boston area. The clams were a decent size and tasty, but the soup could have been thicker in my opinion. - Fried Green Tomatoes. Tomatoes aren't my thing to begin with, but my girlfriend likes them and wanted to get some veggies on our meal. I was expecting little cherry tomato-sized portions, but it ended up being thick slices of heirloom tomatoes. The tomatoes were very sour and I wasn't a fan of the breading around it. It comes with an aioli, but it didn't help things too much. My girlfriend wasn't a fan as well. - Salmon Tartare. Not much different from salmon sashimi, except it was placed in a cylinder-fashion as most tartares are. It tasted fine. Just not filling nor exciting. - Lobster Roll. This was the whole reason we came here. We skipped out on all the other lobster rolls we crossed paths with at the other restaurants in Boston. It came out with a side of fries, cole slaw, and pickles. We split two orders between four people, and that seemed to workout fine if you're just looking for a taste. The roll consisted of chopped lobster covered in an herb vinaigrette on top of a toasted hotdog bun. I took my bite and right away got a taste of the herb vinaigrette, then the lobster. As I was chewing, I thought to myself "is this it?" Yeah, it was good. But it takes you to the realization that you're eating lobster on a hotdog bun. The lobster has a great taste and consistency. The herb butter is refreshing. But it all doesn't come together. HOWEVER, the pickles were a huge hit. Our table couldn't get enough of those suckers! I don't know though. $30 for lobster hotdog. Nah.
(3)Nikki S.
OMG the wait is ridiculous and no reservations. I tried 3x's to dine here while on vacation, that's some work for food. Was it worth it, yes I guess so. Everyone rants about the lobster roll.I actually do like it. It's the cold version with mayo and such which was nice a refreshing in mid August. But the oysters, delicioussss. I'm not too wow by oysters, slimy, gritty, sometimes I choke if they're huge. Dirty. Haha. But these were perfectly sized, some had a butter after taste. Slurped each of them up with out extra condiments.
(4)Amy W.
This was one of the most amazing restaurants I had the pleasure of eating at during my recent trip to Boston. My family and I were able to sit out on the patio on a gorgeous afternoon. I loved how the patio felt private and tucked away, but at the same time provided plenty of sunshine and fresh air. We also had a great waiter who was attentive and friendly. We shared a platter of several different types of oysters, which in spite of the season were all incredibly fresh and delicious -- the pinnacle of my gustatory experience in Boston, since coming from the Midwest I had made it a goal to eat some raw oysters before I left the coast! We had tartare, which was good but maybe not the best that I've had; I wasn't sure what to make of the sesame seeds and the chili oil. My family and I also shared cod with peas, carrots, radishes, pea shoots in pea juice. This dish was good, if a smidgen on the bland side, but the crunchy carrots and radishes definitely provided some good texture. I wish I had had a spoon to finish up the pea juice! My favorite was probably the halibut, which I thought was done better and more tenderly than the cod. It came with beet spaetzle and roasted beets -- very summery and absolutely delightful! We decided to get a dessert and I was quite frankly a bit disappointed by the rhubarb tartlet, which definitely had great flavors but I thought the pastry cream was a bit too runny for my taste. I definitely thought that it could have come together a bit better. Overall, a great experience and I'll be sure to drop by again on my next trip to Boston!
(4)Betty L.
Quick take: excellent selection of oysters, awesome service, but very pricey. It's a cute, subtly nautical-themed restaurant with an outdoor dining area (which we did not get to experience) and an open-kitchen - you can watch them shuck the oysters! We came for lunch having heard of its lunch menu and ordered oysters, the clam chowder, and mussels. Oysters: Oh, the oysters! I could go on and on! New to the area, we did not know which oysters we preferred, so we had our server choose a variety of east coast oysters to sample. The oysters came neatly presented on a bed of ice, with a card indicating which ones they were. Our server then took the time to point out which oysters came from where, just to make sure we understood. We went down the list and quickly discovered our favorites, of which we ordered a couple more of. They were well shucked, neat, and refreshing. Clam Chowder: Tasty, but too runny with an overwhelming flavor of bacon. The clams were decently sized, but I prefer my chowder thicker and less overwhelming. Overall? I'd come back, if only for the oysters. I've heard their entrees are delectable as well, so I'd like to give those a try.
(4)Margaret L.
Hooray! After being disappointed by Legal Sea Foods, I was in a desperate search for an amazing Lobster Roll and Clam Chowder, and boy did I find it!!! Fried Clams - wowie, these were good! Fried Oysters - these were good, but if you have to choose between the fried clams or the fried oysters, go with the fried clams Lobster Roll - yummmmmmy! You really get to taste the lobster and the lemon helps make the lobster super sweet. Clam Chowder - BEST CHOWDER EVER!!!! I wish I could have taken a gallon of this home with me! And those little spicy croutons are pretty amazing too! The restaurant is also super tiny so I highly recommend making a reservation first. I also loved the ambiance of the place, very cute and modern looking.
(5)Kristina N.
I ate here for the first time on Tuesday, May 21 and it was a great experience. From the outside, the decor (gates that are kept open have cute sayings), and the inside has an open view of the busy kitchen. The waiter made great recommendations for beer. My two friends and I ordered: a variety of oysters to start, the clam chowder, atlantic blue cod, skate wing with mushrooms and polenta, ricotta gnocchi, and old bay spiced chicarrons. We also had the ricotta cheesecake which came quickly, was very light, and we served in a mini mason jar. Great service and delectable food! I would come back here again. For my fellow diners, it would be advisable to make a reservation for peak hours several weeks in advance.
(5)Michael T.
Great place for oysters and drinks in the city. Cool kids too.
(4)Ash T.
I was having a terrific day back in Boston. So terrific that I didn't think it could get any better. Heck, I had finally gotten the city sports store branded shirt I never got when I actually lived here for half off. What more can you ask for? A delicious seafood dinner, apparently. B&G is located in the gentrified heart of South End on Tremont Street. It's easy to miss because it's half underground. Anyway, it's small inside, so reservations come in handy. Showed up for our reservation and were seated right away. I ordered the Atlantic blue cod tipped with fried oysters and served over eggplant in a green pea sauce. First off, the kitchen was ridiculously fast. The dishes came out within ten minutes of us ordering. The cod dish was immaculately executed. The fish was had a nice sear on the outside and was flaky on the inside. The taste really stood out. The two fried oysters on top of the cod were a very nice touch, perfectly crisp, and have seriously gotten me into a fried oyster fix. (I noticed they also have a fried oyster dish on their menu. I wish I had gotten that too). the pea sauce was very simple and light but really enhanced the flavor of the dish and gave it a beautiful color. bravo. We also ordered the smoked shrimp beignets. At $8 for five sizable beignets, this dish seemed like the value item on the menu. And, in keeping with what appears to be meticulous quality at this place, the beignets were absolutely delicious. Excellent experience, and a great homage to Boston's long history with seafood.
(5)Griffith G.
I love B&G Oyster. My partner hates seafood, so when ever I have the chance to dine alone, I head over to B&G. Yes, they have a great lobster roll ,and the fried clams are AMAZING. However their entrees are the real star here. Their pan seared fish selections are always outstanding and often less expensive than their signature lobster roll. I can make a good lobster roll at home, but their fish is amazing. They have a nice wine selection, and the fresh oyster selection is outstanding. It can be crowded for dinner, but they have a great lunch menu.
(4)Brent G.
living 3 blocks down and walking by almost every day - I just tried yesterday on a whim walking by with my girlfriend. We sat on the back deck which was so fun. The guy who seated us was super nice (short buzzed hair) we had actually just played beach volleyball and looked like crap! Was wondering if we'd get looks bc of it. Nope. Guy was so freaking friendly. OK. On to the food. Had wine, appetizers, and oysters. Apps were delicious and cheap $5 range. Oysters and wine were delicious. This was a tell all of your friends kind of experience. Will be back.
(5)Kelly C.
My first time to Boston and wanted authentic New England food. Read all of the reviews and found b and g oyster. Sat at the food bar and had the best meal experience possible. The clam chowder is the very best anywhere. It is on the thinner side which made it great. Had the sword fish and love it. I love this place so much that I came back twice. 3 days in Boston and I could not go anywhere else. On my second visit I was given a complementary desert. It was out of this world. Great food great atmosphere great service.
(5)Kim S.
I went to B&G Oysters for the first time with my boyfriend and we were really impressed and pleased with our meal. We stopped in at about 5:45 on a Saturday without reservations. They were able to seat us immediately, albeit outside on the patio (it's a nice patio, but was a little warm out since it was the summer and there are no fans). For our meal, we split: - Fried Oysters: Delicious! The waiter recommended them to us, and we were glad that he did. They were light and came with quite a bit of the homemade tartar sauce. Would definitely order these again. - Shrimp cocktail and selection of oysters: These were great as well. We just asked for a sampling of a few of the daily oysters and the waiter brought us the ones that he liked the best. They were very refreshing. The shimp cocktail were very good too--very very big shrimp! My only complaint is that they were a little on the pricier side... I would have liked more shrimp cocktail or oysters but at $4 a shrimp and on average $3.50 an oyster, I had to hold back. - Lobster BLT: This was very tasty as well; it was a mayo-based lobster salad with bacon, lettuce and tomato with coleslaw, pickles and fries on the side. In general, I am more of a fan of warm lobster rolls that aren't lobster-salad based, but this one was good. It was a little bit on the smaller side-- I know that good lobster rolls typically cost $20-30ish, but for $30, this was kind of small, and while it had a good amount of lobster in it, it wasn't exactly overflowing. The fries and the coleslaw were good. Overall, it was a great meal. The food was tasty and the service was good-- it's just kind of an expensive restaurant that has smaller portions.
(4)Erin B.
We had an amazing dinner at B&G Oysters. Following the excellent advice of another yelper, we sat at the big marble bar, which afforded us an excellent view of the ladies rocking the kitchen as well as a nice perch from which to enjoy the funky decor. We started with a selection of different oysters, which our server, Erin, expertly helped us select. She was a wealth of information about all things seafood and was great at explaining everything for us. Next we shared the watermelon salad (avec feta and watermelon sorbet) and the fried clams. Normally my gluten-free needs mean that I don't get to partake of fried delicacies but the folks at B&G were happy to use corn flour rather than wheat flour to accommodate me. This pretty much made my night. We also shared bowl of mussels and clams cooked in white wine and herbs. All the food was delicious. Except our dessert. We ordered the banana split made with house made ice cream. Sadly, the ice cream was a bit funky - granular in the way that ice cream gets when it's been thawed and refrozen. No stars off for that, though, because our server didn't miss a beat when we complained (not in character for us). She apologized sincerely and took it off the bill without any discussion. I have every faith that it's normally delicious and the way she handled it erased any bad feelings the ice cream might have spawned. This place is a real gem. I'm jealous of all you Boston folk who can eat there more regularly.
(5)stephanie f.
Our first meal in Boston and we LOVED it. My husband had his heart set at finding the right place to enjoy his first set of east coast oysters and you bet he found them here! These even beat his top spot from Ni9e restaurant in Vegas. We both had our first lobster rolls here too. I had the traditional and he had the BLT lobster roll. I preferred the BLT ( minus the B for me) over the traditional. I liked the ciabatta roll better and I liked the texture of the sandwich over all. The lobster in both was so sweet and fresh, not served dripping in butter like I expected. We were lucky to get a seat on the patio after waiting ~ 20 mins on a Saturday with no reservations. It was so perfect for our first 1hr in Boston. Our waitress was super attentive and helpful with oyster selections and meal choices. Definitely a go to place!
(5)Ezgi K.
This restauranta was yhe perfect spot for taking my family to a tasty lunch. From reserving our table, which was done with the reservation tool on yelp, to getting there with ease and being sat down right away when we called out our reservation, this surely was a no hassle experience. We ordered some oysters and calamari for an app and then four of us shared two bacon lobster rolls. The proportions were perfect since I definitely could not finish the who roll by myself. The fries and coleslaw were to die for and the lobster roll itself was light, unlike the overly mayonnaised roll I was expecting to receive, although the roll could have used a little bit more flavor. All in all, great food and fantastic location!
(4)Anthony A.
Great food! Went for my birthday with my fiancé. Good was amazing. Staff was amazing. Tables are close together but worth it!
(5)irene u.
When you come to Boston, you have to have a Lobster Roll... and so we did. But we also had the fresh crab BLT and we were throroughly pleased with our meal. The Lobster roll was seasoned perfectly and it didn't feel like I was ingesting a gallon of Mayo. Perfect amount of texture included in the roll and dusted with herbs. The crab BLT melted in your mouth with little treasures of crunchy bacon to accent the avocado, lettuce and tomato. Scrumptious... We also ordered a dozen oysters that were locally farmed and we were so delighted by the different flavors that each of the oysters carried. They don't make the oysters... but the chamapgne mignonette and the horseradish accent was a perfect pairing for the oysters! So the food was good! but you know what we also loved about this joint?! The outdoor patio with the white twinkle lights above. We went there for lunch, but its so whimsical and romantic. I be this spot would be perfect for a summer night out and a glass of white wine... or red if you're like me ;)
(4)Michelle C.
Ate here back in May and forgot to yelp it....Lobster Roll was taaaaasty! Saw this on Best Food Ever on TLC (so weird, my sister who lives in Texas called me and was watching the SAME thing! and we were both like we NEED to try it!)" so next time she was here visiting, we made our way to the South End on a beautiful afternoon and sat on the patio outside and split a lobster roll & calamari. Calamari was nice and crunchy with a yummy spicy aioli. The lobster roll had nice chunks of lobster w/ mayo and chives on a toasted bun. I would have given this place 5 stars but the service wasn't that great. There were only 3 other tables while we were there but the waitress was pretty MIA during the whole meal other than initially getting our drinks and order and she wasn't that friendly either.
(4)Hilary H.
I love B&G. The food here is phenomenal. The setting is glorious. The service: impeccable. Like I said, I love B&G. Summertime is the best time to come here, because you can sit in a little sunken patio area and dine al fresco. I'll take 1/2 dozen oysters with some sparking rose, and perhaps their scrumptious lobster BLT with it's subtle hint of lemon, too. I just happened to stumble upon this place last summer when I had a hankering for oysters, and I haven't been able to get it out of my head ever since! The only drawback? It's WICKED expensive. Yeah. Like, maybe $50 a person, if not more. But for a treat every so often, it's more than worth is. It's nestled into the hip section of the South End on a beautiful block of brownstones. It's private because the outdoor dining area is recessed into the ground, but it doesn't at all feel like you're enclosed. Beautiful.
(4)Mariano A.
If you have a craving for seafood and are looking for a place to go to satisfy that craving, then you have come to the right place. This cozy establishment is as good as it gets. The food and service are excellent. We walked in around 5:40 on a Friday evening and found open seating at the bar, everything after that was pleasantly relaxing and heavenly for my taste buds. The oyster menu included a variety of 12 different oysters to choose from, including 4 from MA which I would recommend...very fresh! I had the Black Sea Bass which was served with duck confit and yukon mille-feuille. The combination of the mille-feuille potato with bass, and the combo of the m-f with duck confit was a mouth-watering masterpiece! I couldn't have been happier with this dish. Ma femme ordered the salmon, which is listed on the menu as "Faroe Islands" salmon, basically one of the best sources of Salmon in the world (sustainable and minimal health risk hazard, low risk of PCB exposure, etc). Nice to see B&G Oyster offering this on the menu. We were both very happy with the food and the wine and beer selection. I noticed there is a patio in the back which I am looking forward to frequenting soon once the warm weather returns to Boston. Overall, 5 stars for excellent food and service.
(5)Bobby C.
3.75 stars overall. We were stopped by B&G for a late dinner, 9PM on a Wednesday night. The place was lively and pretty packed. 4 stars for service. Our server was great from beginning to end, checking up on us and refilling our water. I ordered the special of the day which was a pasta with lobster dish. My friend ordered the bouillabaiss. My dish was very tasty and creamy but portion wise on the small side. I ended up getting the Barbancourt Rum Cake for dessert. You could definitely taste the rum in the cake. If you have a sweet tooth, I'd recommend the dessert. 3.5 stars for food.
(4)Bill S.
Excellent food, great service and the cooks prep everything in view of the bar. Valet service is available for $16 - helpful since there is no parking in the neighborhood. Limited beer selection, but one was a favorite of mine: Harpoon The Long Thaw White IPA, so I can forgive them for that. Kinda pricy, but you get what you pay for.
(4)Alyn P.
I heard this place got voted for the best chowda by Boston Magazine. So, I had to go see for myself. This is a quaint restaurant with bar seating and table seating. I sat at the bar and loved it because I could see the chef's in action. I'm a sucker for watching them cook and plate everything. I think it adds to the dining experience. They had a separate oyster menu with what they had available for the evening. Then of course I got the chowda to see what the hype was about. I found it quite flavorful and hearty! It was definitely obvious (both visually and taste wise) that it was made fresh. It had bacon, which for me makes everything 10 times better. The consistency was on the lighter side and for me, I prefer mine more creamy. I think in terms of consistency, I like the chowda from Legal Seafoods more. But this chowda definitely wins in terms of freshness and flavor. Tried the chocolate mousse and birthday cake on their dessert menu. The birthday cake was okay, I found the cake itself to be a bit too dry for my liking. I really liked the chocolate mousse - definitely heavy on the toffee flavor and you could really taste the sea salt. I love the sweet and salty kind of compliment so this one was my favorite between the 2 desserts I tried. Staff were all nice and our waitress interacted with us a good amount at the bar, which I liked. I also felt like I wasn't rushed out when closing time came around too.
(4)Priscilla T.
3.5 stars to be exact. It's just a hair short of 4 stars because I expect close to flawless for a Barbara Lynch operation and the fried shishito peppers were uber soggy and my black cod was a tad...bland. Tasty but bland. However, the halibut was crisp and yummy, the outdoor patio is cute and charming, and the service is great and friendly! I'd recommend this for a friends' lunch or a family-in-town outing.
(3)John H.
Oysters are fantastic. That being said-- other menu items seemed a bit pricey for the quantity (small) and quality (good but not great). Tip: this place is TINY, crowded, and loud-- so plan to get there early for apps, then head somewhere else for dinner.
(4)Erin L.
Perfect Saturday afternoon lunch place. Fried oysters were on point and lobster roll sandwich hit the spot.
(5)Catherine G.
What do you do when you've got your parents and uncle with you in a town that you're just dying to leave after a rough wedding? You go to B&G Oysters! Just kidding. I don't know how we got there. I love, love, love oysters. And after dragging the family around, I figured we had to go in. It was Sunday, warm for the time and everyone and their pet dog was out walking. It was about 230pm this last Sunday - had to drop off hubby since he had a flight to catch for a business trip- but since my uncle was with us, it was again 4. We sat at a table outside. A bit snug than I like, but we managed. We ordered mussels, and a few different types of oysters. Mussels were unusually spicy, but my mom seemed to like it. And there was lots of hard bread to soak up the broth. (I assumed that the bread was supposed to be hard. Was it supposed to be hard or soft? I dont know...) For our entrees I ordered us a bunch of whole clams, with and without fries, etc. I think it was a foreign concept to my parents - eating fried seafood - but they seemed to enjoy it. I didnt think the batter was quite as good as what I had the day before. It was just a tad soggier, but still it was yummy. The service was good, and for the most part attentive. Just not so good with details as she had made my $100 tab, $150 by adding extra stuff on it. I used to work in the food and bev industry years ago, so I'm always tabulating stuff as I order it - bad habit. So I knew what to expect and right away I knew it was wrong. She corrected it and asked me to make sure it was right. The oysters were fresh, but the ones we ordered were a bit on the small side. My mom said there wasn't much to eat... but I thought it was good. The only reason this place doesn't get 5 stars is because they didnt seem to take care of the chairs and stuff as they should. If you're going to seat people out of doors, make sure the chairs and tables are neat and clean. I didnt quite get that feeling as I kept wiping at each chair before the person sat down. Little things matter when you're talking about the whole dining experience!!! But go and enjoy some oysters folks!! It is a little pricier than some places, but worth it in my opinion.
(4)carol a.
Ate at B & G for the first time when we were searching for a good oyster bar to entertain an out of town guest who loves oysters. Two of us had the fish and chips which were to die for. The batter was perfect and the aioli that came with it was delish. Loved the touch of the bread and butter pickles. The other two had oysters, which they loved. One said they were the best they'd ever had. We were very happy to hear that the restaurant gets twice daily delivery of oysters so you know they are super fresh. Yes, they are a bit pricey, especially for lunch and the menu is a bit limited for those like me who are allergic to shellfish, but overall a very positive experience. Will definitely be back the next time we're in the area.
(4)Tyler W.
Well Michelin, it is safe to say that you are indeed overrated and biased. A couple months back, I had the pleasure of going to the Water Grill in downtown Los Angeles, a restaurant that holds 1 Michelin star (at least when they had a Michelin guide in LA). It was very good, but in my opinion B&G Oysters is definitely better. We ended up at B&G at 5:30 on a Saturday (the only res we could get a week ahead of time). It seemed like a great place to take my aunt and uncle while they were in town doing touristy things. For our apps, we ordered the fried clams and the mussels.The fried clams were clearly pretty fresh and the dipping sauce was great. The mussels on the other hand were spectacular. We agreed that these were some of the most tender mussels that any of us had ever had, and they were quite flavorful as well. For our entrees, my aunt and uncle both ordered some fish that they had never tried before, ordered the salmon, and my girlfriend ordered the lobster roll. The lobster roll was quite good and very lightly dressed (the way I like it). She also had coleslaw and fries on the side. While the coleslaw was pretty standard, the fries were very good. I loved that they decided to opt for tarragon and cilantro on the fries. For my salmon, I have to say that this was easily the most crispy fish skin I have ever had on a piece of fish. The fish itself was quite tasty as well. Oh...and the sauce...the sauce, so good. The chorizo added an element of saltiness that I thought was welcome and often lacking from fish in restaurants. We opted to avoid dessert and go out for ice cream instead, but overall it was a fantastic experience. The service was generally good as well. I feel like I need to try the Butcher Shop now as well...
(5)William M.
We spent a lot of time reading about restaurants in Boston and finally picked B&G. Sadly, we were not impressed. The hostess started off poorly by offering only a seat at the bar even though there were many open tables - she returned some time later offering a table if wanted one - we stayed at the bar. We tried 3 kinds of oysters and liked them all, especially those from British Colombia. The cod main course ok but unexciting. The crab sandwich was better but kind of hard to eat for dinner in a fine dining environment. Delicious chocolate mouse with sea salt on top for dessert.
(3)Eeeeestar T.
Oysters? They have oysters here? B&G's lobster roll is absolutely incredible, complete with the toasted hot dog bun, huge chunks of lobster in a barely-there dressing, and a light dusting of chives that adds the perfect onion-y punch. The accompanying coleslaw, pickles and fries are good enough to eat on their own, and round out a perfect New England meal. As good as the oysters may be...I'm saving my precious stomach space for this lobster roll!!!
(5)Jill G.
Food was good. Not as amazing as I would have thought. Disappointing entrees. Apps were good. Service was eh. I think the entrees were way over priced for the portions. Full blog review: cuisinequeen.me/2013/07/…
(2)Brendan T.
A very strong Four and a Half...This place blew me away the last time I was working up here extensively 5 years back and it had not diminished in quality one bit in the intervening years between then and now, during my most recent sojourn back up here working for the past few months. I know this place is not Barbara Lynch's flagship restaurant but it should be, hell it might as well just be the entire cities! The small garden level space is tight in the best way offering a intimate, darkly lit romantic setting to enjoy perhaps the most perfect rendition of New England Seafood to be found anywhere. The raw bar selection is a thing of beauty, an oyster lovers dream, with a thoughtful ever changing selection of a large number of varieties, the majority from nearby waters, served at just the right cold temperature. The lobster roll is incredible, probably only rivaled by the two brilliant version served at Neptune Oyster Bar in the North End, although sampling the ones there now will almost guarantee that you must endure a unfathomable wait, which isn't so much the case here, although waits are not uncommon. The lobster BLT is equally decadent and delicious. Any fish I've sampled has been perfectly prepared and Ive been having frequent dreams about another lobster enriched item on the current menu, Orechiette di Aragosta (lobster orechiette) the succulent sweet meat wonderfully balanced by the the perfectly cooked pasta, pearl onions and fava beans. One item however blew my mind more than any other and that would be the unbelievable clam chowder. I am confident enough to declare it the best in the city as well as the best I have ever had and you simply must try it. The consistency is neither overly thick nor thin and the balance of ingredients and flavors perfect, topped off with perhaps the most ingenious addition of all, a spicy croton that will make you forget any oysters crackers you thought you might want. Seriously you just need to try it. OK you ask, so whats holding you back from the full five stars. Well unfortunately the service, while often professional can veer into smug self satisfied attitude territory all to frequently, the most egregious offender often being the first person you encounter, a rude hostess who is among the worst Ive dealt with in any town. Regardless all is mostly forgotten when the food starts coming out and this place is a definitive must on any visit to town.
(5)Craig S.
On a day we really needed to be distracted the entire staff came through with surprising professionalism and skill. The food was amazing and the service was far above standard. Recommended: Fluke Crudo, Salmon w/churizo, and Oyster sampler all very good.
(5)Eric W.
This is one of my favourite restaurant in town.! I love the lobster rolls here
(5)Liz B.
Well, with 500+ reviews, I'm not sure what else I have to add to the pile, but I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to B&G with my guest, YCCFL (Y chromosome carrier from London). YCCFL, during his first visit to Boston, wanted to try a proper Boston clam chowder, and after doing a fair amount of research (thanks yelp), I made a reservation here. The restaurant itself was small and casual but bustling. We were led to an oddly shaped table at the end. I got a couple oysters which our server chose for me, and they were delicious. YCCFL got the clam chowder, and enjoyed it. I tried some, and was surprised at how bacon-y it was...too much, and overwhelmed the clam flavor for me. B&G's version is definitely not my favorite version of Boston clam chowder I've tried. I got the lobster roll, which was fan-freaking-tastic. Moist succulent juicy bits of perfectly seasoned lobster, mouth watering buttery roll, crisp fries, and nicely sauced coleslaw. We got the kale salad on the side, which was just OK; I've definitely had better versions of tuscan kale. Service was excellent and attentive throughout the meal. With a couple glasses of wine, the bill came to almost $100, which seemed super high for such casual food, although the quality was pretty darn good. Given the expense, I'd save this for special occasions only. It was a great choice for a visitor who wanted to sample typical Boston seafood dishes, though.
(4)Mark D.
Great seafood/oyster bar in the theater district. Food is delicious and the deserts are great. I, of course, had the flour less chocolate cake with a lemon accent. IT was very underrated. Only two beers on tap so rather limited from that POV, but a nice wine menu. Smallish place overall that is largely taken over by the bar area and an open kitchen arrangement. There's no hiding anything.
(3)Aaron D.
The fact that I'm actually writing a review on Yelp let alone in appraisal of a place should say enough, so I'll make this short. It's the first time I've ever heard my parents say they liked an oyster bar better than Pearl in the West Village, NYC. That should be enough.
(5)Yvonne C.
We order few oysters and one fish entrees. The oyster were good but a little expensive. (And that's the reason instead of giving 4 stars I give them 3 stars.) The fish entrees was pretty good but still a little expensive.
(3)Andrew W.
The service here is outstanding. I went here for dinner on the night of the super bowl. Had a botel of wine, the tuna tartar, the golden tilefish, and then the pear dessert. I thought the tuna in the tartar could have been cut smaller, but it was still a good dish especially with the added grapefruit. The entree was great. The key was bringing all the different ingredients together and eating it in one bite--to truly enjoy the complexities of the dish. Unfortunately there was a slight issue with the dessert. An oyster shell had been confused for a pistachio. When I informed the waiter she handled it fabulously. She profusely apologized, gave us the dessert for free, and offered to let us bring another one home. It was definitely a great experience and I will be visiting again.
(4)Sara C.
Oysters are divine. Olive oil is first rate (though theycould uograde the bread). The rest is good (we got a white fish and arugula salad). The dessert falls short - lime tartlet was way too saccharine sweet. But service is top notch. Our main complaint was that we were cold throughout dinner. It's a small place and every time that door swings open a stinging draft comes through. Turn up the heater a notch, please!
(4)Sandra S.
B&G is the real deal and never disappoints. I have eaten here at least 30 times since moving to the South End and honestly have never experience poor service or bad food. The staff knows food and they've educated me on the flavors of oysters found around the US. They know their wine also and will pair perfectly. The atmosphere is one of the primary reasons I love this place. I can sit at the marble bar with a glass of wine and watch the chef cook my meal. It's like a live version of your favorite show on the Food Channel. I've resisted reviewing B&G for a long time because what used to be a neighborhood hotspot is now sporting a long wait time for a table. I decided to share after reading a few 4 star reviews. I recommend starting off with one of their specials for an appetizer or whatever chowder they're serving. I would also skip the lobster roll (which many reviewers rave about) and order instead whatever local fish is on the menu. The current halibut choice is stunning. Also if they ever have a tuna appetizer, get that. And of course oysters.
(5)Ann W.
Best Oysters Ever!! Four of us ordered two each, then our entrees, but ended up getting another round of the rest of the oysters we hadn't tried. We loved all of them! We've been to several places in Boston (including Neptune Oyster) and these are by far the best. Our server was wonderful and our entrees were delicious too (especially the black bass!). We sat outside and as promised, they turned on the heaters when it got colder. So cute outside! Can't wait to go back!
(5)Diana Y.
The lobster roll is the cold version. It's okay. The oysters, while there's a nice variety, was also just okay. But this probably dependent on which you ordered. Nice setting though--I like the option of the cute outdoor seating. But food wise, I'll probably pass next time.
(3)Hillary w.
I had high expectations for this place. Wish I could give this place 3 1/2 stars. The oysters were fantastic. My boyfriend & I had a great dinner. He had fried clams and I had the cobia and we shared a little. It was a nice mix of something traditional and something new. The service was lacking. Waiter suggested a wonderful wine but when he poured it for a tasting and I said okay and nodded and he just stood there. I asked if I was supposed to pour it myself. He clearly wasnt paying attention because if he was listening or made eye contact he would have noticed I said the wine was fine. Also, when they dropped the oysters, no one described which were which. The restaurant is pretty but we sat next to the hostess stand and in my line of vision was a patch of drywall that needed to be painted. It killed the ambiance for me. I would come back for just the oysters but I would rather go to Island Creek for dinner because the overall experience was better there.
(4)Julie L.
Went for Restaurant Week lunch. Best deal ever! 1) Real menu items: I can't stand when restaurants participate in RW and then dull down their menu to obviously cheaper options. Try to offer your regular menu items. After all, RW is the best time to try out a new resto. Make it count! B&G did just this and I will certainly be back! 2) Extra deals: I love that B&G offered some specials for RW. 4 oysters for $10!! Who can say no?! Of course you have to have oysters when you come here. 3) Food: The stand outs were: +Scallops w/ farro - AMAZING. Two gigantic sea scallops perfectly cooked. The farro and such was hearty and a great compliment. I was stuffed after this and completely forgot dessert was coming. I would regret that later. +Fries - couldn't stop. Some of the best I've had. Crispy outside, great creamy potato inside +Chocolate mousse - THIS WAS AMAZING. And like I said, I regretted finishing every bit of my app and entree b/c I had no room for this. I pushed on, but after half, I had to watch my husband eat the rest of it. It was topped with toffee, salt, and olive oil, served in a rillettes jar. Very generous portion and perfection. I would name this as one of the must-eat desserts in Boston. The mousse was light and rich at the same time. Not overly fluffy (like most), but delicate and full of flavor. The bonus was the toppings - b/c really, the mousse didn't need any additions to be standout. However, I couldn't get enough of the toffee, salt, or olive oil. They were perfectly measured out so every bite had a little. WOW. I think you get the idea. 4) Service: Excellent and what I expect. I love the laid back environment, but it still felt very special. I will definitely be back to attack the rest of the menu!!
(4)Brian D.
I came here for a girl that I was dating's bday as she is a oyster head. Overall, it was okay, nothing great, nothing terrible, just okay. Neptune Oyster blows this place well and high out of the water. Don't get me wrong, this place is still very good, but for it to enter in the same category as Neptune or Island Creek, no way Jose. I mean, for me its hard to give this place a 4 star because the prices and value you get just isn't there in my opinion. If you come here, you are not going to be given a poor meal. The ambiance here is actually quite charming, giving you this basement/bar type feel, but the prices are a bit high for the food. Again, the food is good, but just not quite worth what they price it at. Neptune can get away with it because the food is truly exceptional. ICOB can get away with it because the drink menu and food is also of high caliber. B&G, I'm not convinced yet. When I was here I got the fried clams which were very good, but not AS good as those other two spots in the city. So I have to write them down a bit. Maybe another time or two as a patron here I'll be able to warm up to it, but thus far, I'll just give them a 3 - ONLY comparing them and holding them to the standards of the other big-boy oyster/seafood spots.
(3)Carter D.
I had a great meal here but the service costs them a star. Everything I ate was excellent, starting with a variety of oysters, then fried clams for me cobia for my date, but the service issues started with the drink order. My date ordered some wine, after she tasted and approved of the the wine our waiter had brought, the guy just stood there for a minute, when she finally went to pour her glass herself the guy had some slightly rude remark for her about the whole thing. It was all over pretty quickly, but it was something that stood out. Also, when our oysters were brought out the waiter failed to tell us which were which. My date and I discussed which ones we liked better than the others (of the four varieties we ordered) but ultimately had no clue what any particular oyster was called. They were all very good though. The entrees were great, definitely the best fried clams I've ever had and the cobia was a very well constructed dish. The room is small and intimate with an open kitchen, and we were greeted warmly when arriving and departing. It's a nice place to go for a date, and I doubt there's anything on the menu that isn't excellent, but for the same price you can get the same quality of meal with much better service at Island Creek Oyster Bar.
(4)Jon-Paul B.
Excellent place. I sat at the bar and sampled about 5 dishes and was not disappointed with any of them. The oysters are also fresh and delicious. Staff had a point of view and can guide those slightly intimidated toward great decisions on dishes. Lovely vibe, great wine and beer selection and a fabulous menu. Any dish with a filet of fish is worth it.
(4)sasha h.
B&G is the clear winner in my book as far as mid-tier boston restaurants go. Food is delicious and presentation is akin to the rest of the Barbara Lynch restaurants. Service is good - they are friendly and attentive (e.g, fold your napkin when you leave the table) but also go above and beyond if you need something. As a warning, This place can get extremely busy so sometimes you might need to flag down someone to find your waiter I've come here for every type of occasion and its never disappointed. This place is good and everyone knows it so make a reservation for Fri - Sun well in advance. I love the fish entrees - have had the hake, halibut, char and swordfish and all have been cooked to perfection and tasted oh so yummy. Definitely put this place on your list if you haven't been.
(5)Soo L.
We had: 1. Selection of raw oysters - delicious! 2. Clam chowder - very very good. 3. Seared shrimp Cobb salad with grilled avocado - shrimp was served with head on, but otherwise deveined and shelled - perfectly cooked. Great presentation. We were visiting Boston for a few days. Service was great and we would definitely return for another great meal.
(5)Eric F.
Insane clam chowda. The best in New England!! Perfect french fries and pickles. Bacon jam was ridiculous and I'd order it alone. Lobsta lova roll was good, not incredible but definitely enjoyed the lightness of it. Service could be a litte better, definitely some attitude
(5)Mona T.
I am so happy I found a new great seafood restaurant in Boston! i was getting sick of legals. Went with a group of friends and all 5 of us loved our meals. The avocado and crab salad is amazing.
(4)Michael M.
Lobster BLT, Wellfleet oysters are my favorite!!
(5)Sarah A.
Impressed by the great reviews here on Yelp I tried B&G Oysters last night. I thought the place was pretty good, although a little pricey. I just wanted to clarify about the reservations, however. They only take them the day of, after 11am for parties of 4 or more. So, when I called I was told our party of 2 would just have to walk in. However, that did not turn out to be a problem. There were lots of tables available, probably given we went early and it was a Tuesday night. We had the lobster roll and the fried oysters appetizer. The lobster roll was good: big chunks of lobster and very little mayo. I am not sure it's quite worth the $24, but very good nonetheless. I really enjoyed the fried oysters. The tartar sauce accompanying them was great. The fries that came with the lobster roll were pretty good, although they could have been a little crispier. We had some reisling by the glass which was excellent. I think this would be a great place to come and have a glass of wine and some oysters or other appetizers. I don't know if I'd do dinner here again due to the priciness of a lot of the entrees. However, the oysters were great. Something that kind of detracted from our dining experience, however, was that it did not seem like the place was air conditioned, or if it was, the AC was not very effective. It was very warm the whole time we were there. This may have been due to the open outdoor patio and the traffic in and out from there. I don't know, but they really need to crank up the AC. Otherwise, it is a cool place, although not really in the temperature sense of the term. :)
(4)Walt M.
I recently went to B&G to try the fried clams which were touted by Boston Magazine. I am a fried clam fanatic. Been eating them since I was a child. These fried clams are superb. Absolutely superb. I bit overpriced, but the rent certainly in the South End is higher than that of your average seaside clam shack! The service was good, the presentation was excellent and despite an $82 pricetag for 2 beers and 2 Fried Clam dinners, we were happy.
(5)spencer k.
woody allen said, "I don't eat oysters. i like my food to be dead. not sick. not wounded. dead." sick, wounded appetizers have never tasted so good! fabulous. absolutely. i went for lunch on friday, we started our meal outside in the garden, looking up the walls and onto the treelined tops of south end brownstones and the blue boston sky. i'm no expert on bivalves, but the selection our waitress put together for us included simply the best tasting oysters i've ever slurped (and chewed--i chew, maybe three to four times). some sparkling water and a glass of chablis helped wash the mellow salty taste down, and i was ready for my SOLE EN PAPILLOTE, made with tarragon, grapefruit, wax beans, and exquisite olive oil, all of which is wrapped in some kind of paper and baked with the fish to tender perfection. before i was to enjoy my sole, however, the skies turned from blue to ominous grey and the rain came waterfalling down in a crazy flash downpour. we quickly escaped to the dining room, and what a treat it was! it's a gorgeous room, intimate and friendly and yes a little loud but it was so alright. i was glad to begin outside, and for the main course move into the beautiful room full of very happy people and glasses clinking. and the fish was truly superb. at the table was also the lobster blt, with amazing and generous lobster salad but slightly overpowering bacon. also had was the spicy clam stew which was fabulous too--subtle olive oil and tomato base and you can be sure the clams were tops. a winning experience i hope to repeat many times. on my salary it can't be a weekly thing, but i'm going to see if i can shift some things around...
(5)Jessica F.
The best fried clams in the city (state? East coast?) are served at B&G, no question. Add the freshly made tartar sauce and it's heavenly! A good secret is that they take reservations on the day-of, after 11am. Sometimes you'll get stuck at a table that's too small for your party, but if you improvise, share plates and get cozy, you'll have a great time! Or sit at the bar and watch the chefs prepare each plate and shuck oyster after oyster - you'll even get to see Barbara in action every now and then. Try the rieslings that are on the wines-by-the-glass menu as a great complement to a salty, briny oyster plate. And save room for dessert!!
(5)Kate B.
Too hip for its own good. The food is nothing special and overpriced. The tiny space, with it's ultra-intimate open kitchen and low-ceilings, is not very inviting. I felt bad for the kitchen staff being so exposed. Our server wasn't very attentive and seemed to be annoyed with having to actually take our order and serve our food. Too much 'tude for sure.
(2)ack c.
Great selection of oysters, no doubt on that front, but the fried stuff is strange, dirty grease maybe? the trip to bathroom is downright frightening, and the vibe is weird. Admittedly, I've always only been there mid-afternoon, but to be honest, there isn't a lot of prep in a raw oyster so i don't see the point in chi-chi with something that simpe...
(3)Sandy S.
Cool place in the South End of Boston....I prefer to sit up at the bar and watch the oysters get shucked. The even had oysters from British Columbia! Low ceilings, cool music and a busy vibe - add some great oysters and some nice wine and you have a great place.
(3)paula z.
I was all geared up to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary at B and G, since I LOVE seafood. Except for the raw items, we were VERY disappointed! The raw items were great, fresh and very tasty. Everything else was pretty bad. Service, our waitress was OK, but the busboys and the waitress kept removing items so quickly that they actually took my cocktail sauce while i still had two raw items left to eat. Then, the busboy actually seemed to be standing over our table waiting for me to finish a roll so he could remove the plate. In addition, the menu was pricey for what we got...a very poor value. The fried clams were just OK, and were $25, but the fried oysters, billed as an entree, were six little oysters, fried and replaced on their shells, and that was IT! No fries or anything else...very misleading to call it an entree. It should have been billed as an appetizer. Here's the kicker, though, we were seated and in and out in 30 minutes, having consumed three courses!! It was Saturday night, and there was no line, so what was the rush? It's like they couldn't push you out the door fast enough. Not the "dining " experience one would expect given the prices. Oh, and another kicker, I think they valet park the cars in New York, because, no lie, we spent almost as long waiting for the valet to bring back our car (25 minutes) as we did at dinner...(and had almost as good a time!) Avoid this place. It is overrated and overpriced, except for the raw bar food.
(2)jessica k.
This review is about B&G's First Ever OYSTERFEST, or as they call it, their "May Oyster Invitational". Although I give it 4 stars because b&g is a fantastic place any other time, the festival has a lot of room for improvement. Some bad points, expensive. Tickets are sold for 45 dollars before (but they sell out QUICKLY) and 75 if you want that VIP tickets (I opted for the 75 because I'm a baller and because i don't like waiting in lines... which I was worried I have to do if I was to get them first come first serve...) Anywho, they give you 2 drink tickets (but drink tickets are only 5 dollars... so buy a bunch and you are golden) and the VIP kids get to go to stir (the little restaurant across the street) to get an Oyster Profile Lesson with the one and only Rowan Jacobson (who is a cutie I must add!) Started at 12 went on til 8, which seems like a long time but for an avid oyster lover, it is totally worth it. Walking around was really annoying tho... there were stations of different oysters throughout the restaurant (inside and out) and during crowded times there would be a wait to get 3 or so oysters. But they were extremely fresh from all over the place (duxbury, kumamotos, wellfleets, fanny bays, oysters from nova scotia, sorry i started to forget where they were from as my drink tickets decreased) I ate probably around 50 to 80 oysters (along with the random samplings of lobster rolls, lobster bisque, clams, fried oysters, liquid oysters, etc...)and don't feel pretentious about it at all. it was also a very educational experience because oysters really are like a fine wine or cheese; they are very different and you never realize how different they are until you taste many different kinds side by side. Sorry this review is so long! Go b&g! Woo Oysterfest! Have it again!
(4)Jay M.
Way over priced for what you get! Only beer and wine and the wine is even pricier than the food. Food portions are small unless you like french fries, which came with my clams. Girlfriend had the scallops which came with nothing else. Both were $25. The South End has definitley not caught onto the $20 entree trend spreading across the city.
(2)Daniel H.
My Boston friends brought me here for my birthday dinner knowing I live for oysters. The approach into the little restaurant was charming. It was like walking into someone's house from the backyard. There's a open kitchen and we were seated at the only table that had a window to the street. The oysters were good as it should be. The cod and lobster were slightly overcooked but apparently that's the style. (Want best cod? AQUAGRILL!) However,stylish and easy atmosphere is well worth the experience. The wine selection can be better. I still adore this place even though the food didn't blow me away but part of a complete and pleasant experience of dining is charming atmosphere and impression. GO! GO! GO! and you're know what I'm talking about.
(4)John P.
i like oysters and so should you.
(5)Christian H.
Indeed the food is good, the cuisine is not original however. I could get it at Legal Seafoods. Their wine list is extensive as well, but their per glass prices are a steep $14 each for a white I could get anywhere else for $8 . The real problem with place is the manner in which you are handled as a guest. The "waiting area" is basically the walkway into the restaraunt - it is not pleasant AND you cannot wait at or around the bar. Also, the place has a lot of "special guests" who will be seated before you without wait. I signed up for a table for 2 (#4 on the list) at 6:30 and was seated at 7:40. Though we were the only people in the "waiting area" most of the time, no one once told me what was happening - ever. This place is better suited in Lower Manhattan, as are the host staff. Next time I want to feel like the least important person in the world while dropping $100 on appetizers and a glass of wine, I will know where to go.
(2)w w.
Simply the best place for oysters.
(5)William T.
Seriously good oysters and fish. Excellent service. It's pricey and it is worth it. We shared a dozen oysters - all of which were very good. The Hake was beautifully presented and cooked perfectly. The host was professional and the waitress who served us (we sat at the bar) was attentive and knowledgeable.
(4)Harri S.
Oyster isn't in the title for no reason. They do the oyster right. Best oysters I've had in Boston hands down. They are shucked in a way that provides for a nice balance of salt water and full bodied, fresh, delicious oysters. For dinner we ordered the lobster roll and salmon, but the waiter heard the second order as same one. I wasn't too thrilled. I had had Barbara Lynch's lobster roll at Parrish cafe and frankly wasn't too deeply impressed. That opinion didn't change this night. The waiter was so apologetic for screwing up the order though that we were given a complimentary dessert. And my, WHAT A DESSERT!!!! We had the pecan pie ala mode and it may have been the best pecan pie I have ever had. Tasted so good, and so homemade, I might go back just for the dessert and some coffee.
(4)Robert F.
The place has good food and good service. The fish was very fresh and prepared very well. The techniques used is to sear the freshest fish and provide it cooked perfectly. The only negative is that preparation and accompanying vegetables are very minimal and not that tasty. The appetizers were good but not great. The waitress also forgot to order an appetizer and then ordered it and it came just before the meal. The waitress also forgot a side dish that was ordered. Overall it was very fresh good fresh fish prepared very well.
(3)Callan C.
The oysters are very fresh and there was a great selection. Everything we had tasted good and was well executed. Beyond that I found the menu items to be a tad overpriced. Additionally, the place was small and not very comfortable. I wanted to eat my food and get out quickly. Nice to try, the food is high quality but just falling short in a few areas!
(4)Steph C.
Lured by blog hype of the great lobster roll, I made a lunch reservation for two on a recent trip to Boston. My mother left the restaurant choices for the trip to me, and as we approached B & G from the outside, I had a moment of mild panic in which I thought I was taking her to a dingy divey underground spot. Luckily, though the venue looks run-down from outside, the interior is nice and clean and pretty welcoming in its sterile decor. The service, on the other hand, was somewhat sterile but not too welcoming. Our waitress seemed sullen in seating us, and when we asked for recommendations from the menu, she was not at all forthcoming. To be fair, she wasn't terrible, either, and she picked us some good oysters. As for the food - it was decent, but I don't think I would go back for it. The bread was hard, stale, and boring, and my carb-counting mother saw to it that we didn't take more than a bite each. The oysters were the most impressive part of our meal. We asked our waitress to pick two types and give us two of each, and she chose the Island Creek and the Penn Cove. They were delicious, and the two varieties were notably different - the Island creek small and meaty, the Penn Cove briny and bright. Both tasted lovely with the Prosecco mignonette. The roasted mussels were pretty mediocre, not due to the quality of the bivalves, but more to shy seasoning. The mussels themselves were tasty, if not the best I've had. They were served in a wide bowl with garlic bruschetta, scallions, and what was supposed to be a spicy red sauce. The sauce was thin and unexciting - the most forward flavor was mellow white wine, and while I did appreciate that I could make out the niceness of that taste, the sauce would've benefited from more garlic or more salt or anything really to give it some oomph. Everyone knows that half the appeal of ordering mussels comes from the promise of sop-worthy sauce, and I was not tempted to swirl bread in this bowl when the mussels were gone. As for that Maine lobster roll - while it was admittedly delicious, it didn't live up to my expectations. Perhaps I was spoiled by the amazing $13 roll at James Hook and Co. and was expecting twice the excellence from this $27 version. I can concede that the bread on this roll was substantially better than the hot dog bun at James Hook, with a definite buttery toasted flavor that added an extra sweet note to the lobster. The rest of the roll, though, was very similar. Don't get me wrong - this is a great thing. I'm talking about toothsome, quality lobster meat with a minimal amount of mayo binding. A pretty green sprinkle of chives finished the roll, and it was served with a great coleslaw. The butter pickles on the side were okay, too, and the fries were pretty decent, if less crispy than ideal. Fine, so now that I've written about that lobster roll, I kind of want one. That said, I know that I can find better eats for $27, and a near substitute for $13. The atmosphere of B & G doesn't warrant the high prices, and as I don't live in the area, I can't imagine I'll be back.
(3)Crystal S.
Overall an amazing dining experience. My date and I had dinner before the Sox/Yankees game on Saturday. The oysters were great, we had a large assortment and loved them all. I really liked the chowder, it was smokey tasting with bacon. The Lobster + BLT sandwich was AMAZING!!!!! One of the best sandwiches I have ever had.
(5)Mallory C.
I've lost count of the times I've been here - this is one of my Boston go-to spots. My family lives on the West Coast and each member has been here at least once. If you like seafood, you *will* like this place, there's no argument. Absolutely get oysters when you come - usually I ask the waiter what their favorites are. Service is consistently superb here and always so nice and chill. Although I will forever rave about the mussels here, usually you can't go wrong with the daily special or of course, the fried clams. The ambiance is comfortable classy - a lot of the restaurant's seating is at the bar, with tables hugging the outside wall. Sit at the bar if it's a party of 2-3 - you can watch all the meals being cooked as the majority of the kitchen is right there. Or, if the weather is nice, B&G has a sneaky big patio section.
(4)Scott T.
We got takeout for the lobster sandwich alone, which was featured in a food show we saw in Netflix. We were sold the best Lobster sandwich in Boston, but were seriously underwhelmed. The key distinction about this rendition is a lemon mayo which is lightly used. It seems the rave reviews are from people who also enjoyed the ambiance and service. From the food alone, this sandwich is very overpriced for the meager portion you receive in return. If you aren't tied to a fine dining atmosphere and are indeed looking for a solid lobster sandwich from Boston, I recommend Alive & Kicking Lobsters over in Cambridge, where sacrificing some frills will save you half the cost of the sandwich (and gain you a little more lobster in my opinion)
(3)Andrew H.
in town on a business trip, i was advised to stop by B and G from a friend of mine. knowing my general standards and tastes, he definitely did a good job at directing me to places I would like. upon walking in, I was immediately a fan of the decor...small, chic, and open. i love open kitchens, and being able to watch the chefs prepare dishes and shuck oysters is as good as it gets. dining alone, i plopped myself down at an open seat at the bar, in full view of the raw bar. service was attentive, as immediately i was greeted with a glass of water and an inquiry into drink requests. after placing an order for a glass of wine, i enjoyed the ambiance of the young professional crowd and the contrasting dimness inside to the late evening sunlight outside. after reading a few reviews, it became clear that i had to go with the basics and ordered the lobster roll. when i was placed in front of me, i was pleasantly surprised at the amount of lobster toppling over on the soft roll. sided with a light coleslaw, pickles, and a heap of freshly fried fries, i hungrily scarfed down every morsel on my plate. if i were ever to return to boston, which is looking more and more likely, i wouldn't hesitate to return to B & G's.
(4)Anna L.
I went here last week for Restaurant week. Despite being 15 minutes late and calling ahead, the staff was still super friendly and very self deprecating, assuring me it was not a problem for being late at all. I have celiac's disease and thus am gluten-free, and the staff was extremely accommodating to make sure everything I ate was safe. We ate outside on the patio - I had the seared shrimp salad and my husband had a fried clam sandwich and we split a chef selection of oysters - which were $2/each. We would definitely come back again!
(5)Catie C.
I'm typically not an oyster fan. Then why am I here, right? I'm just very picky with oysters because I don't like fishy and salty ones so it's just easier to say I don't like oysters. We trusted our server in picking out the oysters that we may like to try. I must say, she is GOOD! I devoured them while still trying to keep my posture. The clams were great also. Good sized cherrystones that are fresh and meaty. Even tho I was having a bad week in coping with life, this was such a delight! The lobster roll was meaty and not overwhelmed with mayo. We were nice together and shared everything. If only life is as enjoyable as this meal! As for the decor, it is elegant with an open kitchen encompassed by the bar counter. The white counter and tables do give off a bright hue to liven any meal. Many thanks to my buddy that I got to have a nice meal! I love it when friends take me to places I never tried.
(4)Elle J.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Boston area. Their food is outstanding. The shrimp cocktail is the best I've eaten anywhere. The menu is not huge but anything I ever tried was delicious. I highly recommend!
(5)Sarah C.
I've been working around B&G Oysters for years but amazingly have never managed to make it in. Finally ended up there for dinner last night - a party of 2 getting a spot immediately at 7:30pm on a Saturday night? Unheard of! But lovely, nonetheless. Though we didn't take advantage they have a pretty big, and no doubt (knowing Barbara Lynch's places) excellent, wine list. The menu doesn't have a ton of options and they're a bit pricey, but knowing that going in, and that you're going to get high quality (and good sized portions), you should be pleased. We started with the calamari which was a sizeable portion - plenty for sharing - and though very fried, extremely delicious (especially the aioli!) I then got the salmon with brussels - what a PERFECT piece of fish. It had this delicious crispy top, and it was pretty big and cooked perfectly. My friend had the cod which I didn't try, but she seemed to like it. The dessert choices are few and the pecan pie sundae was only fine as opposed to great. I might suggest extending your night if you're up for it and finding another place to grab dessert/coffee/drinks post-dinner. The music choice was a bit weird and because it's so small the temperature fluctuates severely when anyone opens the door(s), but it was cozy nonetheless. Not quite on par with Neptune Oyster, but still very good. All in all, if you're ready to eat delicious food and drop minimum $80 (no drinks) on two people, I definitely recommend!
(4)Tim P.
two words: lobster roll
(4)Tena P.
Excellent choice for Seafood (especially Oysters) in Boston! Great wine selection and beautiful patio!
(5)Susan T.
saw this as #7 in the best foods ever show, only to be disappointed. mainly on the lobster rolls though. it lacked flavor but it had decent amount of lobster meat. really expected much more to them. oysters and clam chowder were amazing. but lobster roll T______T
(3)Steve S.
Lobster Rolls were better tasting then it looks on the Food Network!! Oysters are served with a score card - Love that!! It's gonna be a THING!!
(5)Nicole V.
The patio is open! Start with the famous oysters, move on to calamari and salad, then spoil yourself with the selection of main courses and always always order some fries. Service on the patio could have been better; the best part was the wine and the heat lamps!
(5)Rachael B.
we came here twice during our four day trip to boston over President's day weekend. that alone says something, as FH and I always try new places. the oysters here are killer. (duh). you pretty much can't go wrong in your selection from the raw oysters of the day. on our first evening here, we had just flown in from san jose, were tired, hungry, and it was raining. we got seated right by the oyster shucking bar, which we loved. we started by ordering a dozen mixed raw oysters and basically split a bunch of appetizers from there (never made it to the entrees on that trip!) the fried oysters are amazing, the lobster beignets are unusual but light and well seasoned. we also LOVED the clam chowder - definitely clam-heavy and much lighter than many cream-intense versions. i think we made it to dessert and I had the chocolate torte with marscapone. mmm. oh and the olive oil they serve with the bread? so delicious. describing our other visit will mostly be redundant except that we tried some of the entrees - fish and lobster - and were definitely not disappointed. definitely a must-go to while in boston.
(5)Chris B.
Super clean, fresh flavors. Some of the better seafood I've had. They even accommodated us with no reservations. Friendly staff that went out of there way while we waited.
(4)Jeffrey K.
Tough not to give this place 4 stars. The choice of oysters was amazing, so having that very word in the name of the restaurant is deemed appropriate. I took my girl here for her birthday and we sat next to the open kitchen. This was a real cool spot as we got to see the kitchen staff shuck shells and fry clams. My girl and I ordered fried Ipswich whole belly clams which came with fries, b&b pickles and slaw. Everything on the plate was delicious and prepared flawlessly. The clams had an epic crunch and the slaw balanced out the decadent batter. We also shared the BLT w/ lobster. The meat was over proportionate to the sandwich so I had to get a fork involved - I didn't mind this one bit! The sandwich was awesome, the sweetness and richness of the lobster meat was countered by the saltiness of the bacon. I would order this again in a heart beat. This dish also came with fries, pickles and slaw. The beer selection was a little odd but the canned IPA brew I had from Boulder, CO was one of the best pale ales Ive had in awhile. I would recommend this place to anyone trying to impress a date!!!! Enjoy!
(4)Anna T.
Came here during the winter season. Made a reservation for 3 got there on time but still had to wait like half an hour because the people from the previous table was half an hour late. But it was tolerable because the staff was very informative about it and very apologetic. And we understand because the place was small and it was packed! One thing about the wait was that there's not much room to wait at and it was cold outside. So we came here for raw oysters. We had 1 1/2 dozen 6 each. The waitress helped us choose the more popular ones and from different places. We had oysters around the world 2 from east coast, 2 from west coast and 2 from Britain. You can really taste the difference and it was a lot of fun!!! We had entrees here too but I can't remember what they were already. They were all delicious and finished to the last drop. Would definitely go back.
(5)Beat K.
After careful research in my Home in Dallas to find a great Boston Seafood Restaurant we decided to give B&G Oyster Company an try. We found the Restaurant , by my surprise , close to our Hotel 140 on Claredon Street. Friendly reception and got seated , by our request, in the downstairs Garden. We placed our Order with the Waiter , Green Fried Tomatoes , well here we have a " classic " Louisiana Food item the Green Fried Tomatoes were sliced too thick and consequently where not properly done. The Breading was absolutely Bland with no Southern flare of flavors. We send it back as non edible. The New England Clam Cowder the taste itself was very delicious , the Broth was too thin and Liquidy and the Crouton dusted with ( Pepper ) Cayenne type where so overwhelming HOT it overshadowed the Broth and virtually burned my Palate. My suggestion to the Chef at B&G is , less Spices in the Chowder and a little more concentration of Flavors in the Breading of the Green Fried Tomatoes. Overall a disappointment .
(2)Audrey L.
Tasty NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER, not too thick, but flavorful, briny broth, with a hint of bacon. CHIPS, so good and plentiful. Took home. LOBSTER ROLL, good. OYSTERS, loved!
(4)Gerard B.
(July/ 2007) The cutest oyster bar in town! The fried oysters are a must! And do not leave without trying a taste of the raw bar. Have the waiter of waitress select an assortment of oysters for you to try. You can't go wrong-- fresh and the best! The mini lobster roll served with a side of fries is delish!
(5)Jon D.
If you go on a nice spring or summer day and can get a seat outside for lunch this place is tough to beat in Boston. We loved the asparagus salad and mushroom gnocchi (vegitarian style). However I had a BLT with lobster that was to die for. This is a Boston must try!
(4)Kazuo O.
Came here on a busy friday night. The bar is a good spot to sit to check out all the kitchen action. I ordered the lobster roll and it was great. It had a nice big chunks of lobster meat. The fries were okay, there really short. I had to eat them with a fork.
(3)Gina M.
We went in for the first time last week and had a pleasant, but not mind-blowing meal. The lobster roll is pretty boring compared with Neptune. Lobster beignets were just okay (I wouldn't have guessed there was lobster in there if the menu didn't say so). However, the tuna bruschetta appetizer was quite good. We also had a wonderful server and a nice bottle of wine. The oysters were also good. Cute space. I will go back if I'm in the neighborhood and in the right mood, but honestly for what we spent, it should have been a lot more impressive.
(3)Erin B.
It's not just for Campbells, B & G is mmm....mmm.....good! After seeing many rave reviews, I have been wanting to try B & G for quite some time. Fiance's birthday and restaurant week were the right combination!! Staff is phenomenal and very knowledgeable. Opted for wines by the glass (bottles are expensive, so you might as well have variety). Server gave us many good suggestions and the best part is they let you try it first. Each of us didn't like at least one selection, so it was so nice to get a second chance and not get stuck with an $11-$12 glass of something you don't like. Open kitchen is really cool. Sat right in front of one of the sautee stations. The owner obviously has confidence in her staff if they are going to cook right in front of the patrons. Now for the food.... Being that it is B & G, we HAD to try some oysters. Had the Peter Point, French Kiss, and Little Wing. Sooooo good. Opted for restaurant week menu (which had nothing that is on the regular menu, FYI). First course: I had the lobster bisque. Very good, made to order, right in front of our eyes! Fiance had the arancini balls with black trumpet mushrooms, arugula, and fava bean puree (very tasty and piping hot!). Second Course: Seafood Gnocci - mussels, clams, and this amazing broth that I slurped (yes slurped) from the bowl. Fiance had the swordfish and priscuitto (said it was very good, right combination of flavors). It came on top of yummy stone ground cornmeal. Third course: Chocolate Beer-Cake. Honestly, this was the only thing I didn't like all night and almost demoted this restaurant to 4 stars. The fudgy bottom was tasty but the rest of the cake was dry. It was topped with some kind of marinated orange rind which was gross. Fiance had the panna-cotta and vanilla bean...he won the desert round. Overall, lovely (but pricey) experience at B & G. Sat at the bar and loved every minute. Can't wait to go back when my wallet gets thicker.
(5)Mabel N.
B&G oysters is one of the best seafood restuarant in Boston. This place is small but has its own personality. Went there for a special occasion with my fiance. We tried every single type of their oysters in the menu. Yes...about 2 dozen of oysters. It was amazingly fresh. He had the fried clams it was alright. However the sear fresh sea scallops is what you need to try. It was one of the best scallops I've ever had. Great atmostpher, Good Service and Excellent quality of seafood.
(5)Khai L.
I am hard-pressed to give B&G a four-star rating, maybe a 3 1/2, definitely not 4. The clam chowder I started with was rich with ingredients, but the base was a little too watery compared to any other New England clam chowder I had ever had before. Perhaps this was a different kind of clam chowder and I did not realize it? The striped bass was well cooked. Ingredients tasted fresh. Finally I had their cherry tartlet for dessert. The tart crust was hard and crispy, though not too difficult. Still, not what I would have expected for a tart, but the thyme that was sprinkled on the tart seemed to suggest that the crispy texture was intentional for the flavor combination. The kick was that when the server placed the utensils for the dessert, she explained, unprompted, that she was giving me a knife because the tart crust could be hard because it was made in-house. Very unusual and, quite frankly, a little funny to me. Seemed like she was warning me that the quality of their pastry skills in the kitchen was inconsistent even before the dessert was served. And perhaps she was right. There was also something about the tart's pastry cream filling that tasted off. It tasted a little bland and a little grainy. The cherries on top were abundant and tasted good and fresh though. I thought the thyme was also a nice touch on the play of flavors. All in all, my experience here on 6/9/12 left me surprised that this was a Barbara Lynch restaurant. I know that B&G is not at the same grade as No. 9 Park or Menton, but there are many other restaurants of the same grade that have more satisfying food than this place. Love their relaxed outdoor seating atmosphere, though.
(3)Boston C.
Best oyster restaurant in Boston! Sometimes hard to get a seat but always worth the wait!
(5)Rosemary C.
B&G Oysters is truly "as good as it gets" for oysters and South End ambience. The atmosphere is urban casual. During warmer months, the outdoor space is perfect for sampling great fish, oysters and chowders. Indoors, sit at the counter to observe the plethora of oyster choices and the work at hand. Nice wine list and good service; friendly atmosphere, as well. All good, though I agree that for the overall experience it is a rather pricey meal. Make a reservation for dinnertime - they are usually booked.
(5)Ravi M.
B&G is a swank Oyster Bar that makes good use of limited space. The open kitchen surrounded by a white marble bar is a nice idea. The food is fresh and tastes quite delicious. The service is courteous and friendly. There's a good wine list with French wines in the majority (my opinion based on a very limited knowledge of wines). We started with a platter of fresh oysters from different locales, which we enjoyed very much. However, the best oysters are the fat and succulent Bluff Oysters from New Zealand! (thought I'd stir the pot a little...) If you are looking for seafood in a classy setting without it being too stuffy this is a good place.
(4)Mike G.
what luck to get seats at the counter 7:30 friday despite the dinner crush, bar capt'n tara cheerfully kept all of us bar side watered, fed and chatted up. our choices included fresh, plump oysters & fried MD soft shell crabs piled high with spicy cress, a thick slab of salmon came with fennel, citrus salad and nutty, healthy fregola sarda-aka sardinian couscous-that i don't come across much in these parts. large scallops in garlic chive broth was sweet and sea-tangy. fine wine selection and a great looking, tasty greek yoghurt panna cotta. great fun to eyeball all the dishes coming out of the compact kichen and planning out the next meal. veddy good indeed.
(5)Nicole D.
love this place. if the lobster bisque is on the menu get it and stop thinking about it!!!!! Its light, flavorful, absolutely divine! the mermaid cove oysters were delicious and fresh! Also the BLT with lobster was amazing a sandwich stuffed beyond with lobster, the lobster had a hint of mayo barely even there (amazing.) a fresh light citrus flavor, toasted bun, great french fries sweet pickle chips to add... also amazing. you'll spend $$ to eat but its well worth every penny the food here is beyond wonderful. Sat at the bar and loved it!
(5)Kendall H.
Hidden and somewhat of a secret in the south end. Really nice, small place with great consistency, but i'm definitely more a neptune's oyster guy. Nothing against B&G because its a clean restaurant, with great service and spectacular food but a little too refined for my taste.
(4)Ashley J.
I will admit that I probably eat here once a week and it never disappoints. This is where I fell in love with eating oysters. I recommend trying to sit that bar so that you can see all the action. I've probably have everything on their menu but some highlights below... -lobster roll (off course) -BLT lobster sandwich -claim chowder I know the highlights are classic new england dishes (well, maybe not the BLT) but these dishes are my "treat' picks when I'm feeling like really getting full. For drink selection I recommend talking to your waiter/waitress. I've found that the wait staff is warm and really like to have a dicussion about oyster, entree, and drink selection.
(5)Colin W.
What a place! Reservations for three at a prime time in the evening got us a table immediately in this small restaurant. The service was friendly and quick, the wine selection was pretty good, the oysters (of which there were about 12 varieties to choose) were amazing, and the lobster roll was the best I've ever had. On the other hand, the prices seemed a little bit high, the room was very warm and didn't have much ventilation, and the whole place was far too noisy. I'd definitely go back, but I'd rather dine during off-peak hours because of the heat and noise.
(4)Elizabeth A.
So, was in Boston a few weeks back for work (what a pleasure I must add as I heart Boston) and I had B&G Oysters recommended to me by the hotel where I was staying. Being from AZ, this desert rat failed to bring a coat on this lovely trip as the weather was supposed to be above 60 every day but the day I arrived, which was supposed to be 45 and rain. Whoops! Missed that one! I walked, oh, 6 blocks in the freezing, sideways wind and rain to find this delightful little establishment. Entrance is around the back and I could see there was a sweet patio, but given the Nor'easter I had just trumped through, needless to say the patio the was closed. I was greeted at the hostess stand looking like a wet rat and was promptly seated at the end of a raw bar where everyone else looked pristine...how they did that with the weather outside....I have no idea..must be something they teach you in school on the East Coast. After a quick trip to the ladies room to try to put myself together, I let the gluttony begin. The bar guy (what is there official title when they are also your waiter?) politely allowed me to try a lovely Russian River pinot and explained their procedure with the oysters. Since I eat and have access to a lot of West Coast oysters, I asked that he mix up a half dozen of some East Coasters. They were fantastic...enough said. I asked what else was good and he recommended the fresh asparagus salad. This was awesome - yummy mustardy dressing, fresh spring asparagus! I ate every last morsel. Next course, after another large pour of my pinot, the scallop risotto! Delish!! The chef was preparing this right before my eyes and although I would have preferred for my cholesterol's sake to know a little less about the butter poaching process after watching, it was fantastic!! Everything was seasoned to perfection and again, ate every last bite! Couple of other things to note - great bread with olive oil, great tunes (Ne-yo - could you make me any happier?) and every single person in the entire bar was a brunette! After living in AZ for too long, what a welcomed site! Next trip back to Boston, I will for sure stop into B&G for a little Ne yo, scallop and oyster love!
(4)David R.
Lobster roll and clam chowder as good as advertised. Not the usual Boston seafood joint either. Definitely worth a return visit, even from a New Yorker.
(4)Chris D.
The restaurant itself is kind of cool. It's small and all the tables are around the centered kitchen. They play really cool and hip music. I was def disappointed in the food. I had the Pan seared halibut which was over cooked and $30 for a 4oz or 5oz portion. They definitly had a great selection on oysters but are over priced. The best part of our meal was the $14 dollar banana split desert but again over priced. We started with some oyster to share then both had a main entree with 2 glasses of wine. Oh and can't forget the $14 dollars desert and the bill was around $150. I don't mind spending $150-200 on dinner but when you don't enjoy it it's disappointing
(2)Enza D.
Best Cherrystones around!! I dine here once a week and their raw bar is without a doubt the BEST in Boston. Their shrimp cocktail, oysters and cherrystones are soooo good and always super fresh! My absolute favorite dish on the menu has got to be their lobster club and their fried clams take a close second. I also prefer their No.9 Pinot Blanc, it goes perfectly with their raw bar items!
(5)Peter G.
A big 'Meh' on the famous lobster roll. At $25-27 it is the most expensive in the city, and so naturally I was expecting a lot. I am always game for trying the gussied up version of a beach shack classic. Boy was I disappointed. The lobster was rubbery (read: NOT FRESH) and tasteless. Presentation was off the charts arriving looking absolutely perfect and like it just came back from a photo shoot. A moderate amount of beautiful lobster with just enough mayonnaise to hold it together and the perfect amount of diced celery on a rather nondescript roll. It may as well have just left the photo shoot. But looks alone do not good food make. Did I mention it's also quite small? This coming from someone who struggles to finish meals out, usually. The side tarragon fries were quite delicious, however. But the excellent fries are not worth the price of admission. The namesake oysters are delicious, but expensive. Especially when you consider the same oysters sourced from the exact same local farmers can be had for less. But what they lack in price they make up with a great daily variety. If you MUST have oysters and they MUST be in the South End this is your place and you will not be disappointed. If you are open to other neighborhoods there are much cheaper options for fresh local oysters. Don't come here for the over-priced, tiny, and tasteless Lobster roll. You can get a much better one for much cheaper elsewhere in the city and if sophistication is a must - go to Neptune. Does anyone else miss their old sign that had a very ambiguous oyster on it? (For the curious it looked like a poop).
(2)Jeannie H.
I cannot even begin to fathom how this place is deserving of 4 to 5 stars. I don't think I would have found it this offensive if it wasn't for the high prices for this level of mediocrity. The portion sizes are pathetic with entrees the size of appetizers. I left there unsatisfied. ATMOSPHERE - Stark and uninteresting but overall, an appropriate bar setting. SERVICE - The service is appalling. My reservation was for 5:15PM. I was seated at 5PM. After asking for our server multiple times, we finally had our orders taken at 5:15. Appetizers arrived at the table at 5:30 and the entrees came at 6:15! If you can't even service your customers at 5PM, I'm not sure what you're capable of at peak hour. FOOD - The bread is horrible. It's hard, dry, and stale. Oysters of the Day - They definitely have a nice selection of oysters but I'm not sure why people consider this a destination spot for seafood. I'd rather go to Neptune for oysters. Roasted Mussels (spicy red sauce, garlic bruschetta, scallions) - The mussels were perfectly tender and plump but the sauce was, dare I say, bland. Bouillabaisse (cockles, mussels, shrimp, calamari, rouille) - Bouillabaisse is usually a fulfilling and hearty dish but this was spartan and small in portion size. I just couldn't fill up on this $22 entree. I don't understand the hype. The flavours were solid but there was nothing special or interesting about the dishes. It feels like there was such a lack of effort or creativity. I definitely won't be back.
(2)Sara S.
4.25.09 Walked over to B&G on Saturday for some lobster goodness take-out. Sitting at the bar counter, sipping cold draft Radebergers.. watching some little girl bouncing up and down to 'Boom Boom Pow,' I observed the relaxed pace of the prep-work in the open kitchen as the warm breeze flowed through the small space. Everything was packed in white paper containers in a large brown bag, and we walked back to Commonwealth & Exeter to eat on H's apartment steps. There were little containers of arugula salad, sweet bread and butter pickles.. and then there were the highlights.. Discussing what makes the perfect lobster roll can lead to a highly volatile debate, so this is just my opinion! I would rate B&G's lobster roll in the top half of lobster rolls but not much higher due to style (and perhaps cost, although there are some really great $25 lobster rolls out there worth that price). I'm a fan of the buttered toasted hot dog roll, sparse celery, light to medium-light mayo; B&G's is more of a sandwich- between two thick, hard slices of bread lie large pieces of sweet lobster meat (both knuckle and tail), very minimally seasoned, successful in sparingly using celery and mayo. It was very good, but.. Where B&G really succeeds is with the B.L.T with Lobster. This is one of the more amazing sandwiches I have ever had. It is served on the same bread and the lobster meat is accompanied by bacon, lettuce and tomato (obviously). The greasy saltiness of the bacon with fresh lettuce and tomato lends just the right mix to elevate the lobster five notches. The sandwiches were very filling, and it was a very satisfying experience. Also, this Sunday, May 3rd, B&G is hosting the May Oyster Invitational, which looks amazing!
(4)fred f.
a solid "meh" . The waitress was attentive, helpful, fun. She really helped us have a fun night. That's An easy 5 stars for her. But my friends and I have tried forever to get into this place and it's always booked. We felt super-lucky to score some seats for New Years Eve. But sad to say, we were kinda underwhelmed. Oysters were great but pretty darned overpriced. Fried clams good: almost great, but we can get better ( and many more clams for the same price) up in Essex County for less pretense, and no worries of a week wait-list to get into the restaurant. calamari are pretty good (but where the heck were the tentacles, B+G?). The brandade seemed way under-hydrated : it was almost inedibly salty. Friends had an octopus and squid ink pasta they reported as kinda tasteless. So i guess I'd say food ranks somewhere around 2 stars. So we'll give it a 3 star rating for our superb and helpful waitress. Kinda disappointed in the food and the cost though. Makes me wonder what all the buzz is about this place.
(3)Kim P.
Service: 5 stars. Attentive, funny, personable. Loved it. The oysters (baked oyster appetizer and the Po boy) were good, but not to-die-for. Maybe I'm biased because I still have the lingering memory of eating at the Acme Oyster House in New Orleans a few weeks earlier. Who knows. At any rate, it was great for Restaurant Week so I could try the place. I loved the ambiance (if you sit at the table to the right of the entrance in the front, beware--it's drafty), the wine list, the ability to watch everything. It's the South End--if you insist on driving, just save yourself the time and energy and valet your car.
(3)Jen L.
The wine and the oysters definitely deserve 4 stars. But everything else is just okay. The portions here are really small - and I am the type of person who usually complains about big portions! Trust me. But if I'm paying $27 for a lobster roll it should be a LOT larger than it was. The sandwich looked especially tiny and sad since the rest of the plate was covered with french fries, which were tasty, but come on! A note to Ms. Lynch: I am here for the lobster, not the sides! I have similar complaints about the oyster po'boy. It is served in a largish bun with tons of lettuce and three tiny fried oysters. Given the size of the bun, the sandwich could have used twice that many oysters. And like the lobster roll, the po'boy was served with a mountain of chips. Very frustrating. I'm not going to totally diss this place though. The patio seating is awesome on a warm summer day and the service is pretty good. I'd recommend coming for oysters and wine only and moving on elsewhere for dinner.
(3)Mimi D.
No matter what kind you get the oysters all melt in your mouth. They were all soooo amazing. I wish I had more money so I could keep slurping down these raw pieces of love all night long. The wait was worth it. It was tiny and cramped but the food was excellent. Service was also super friendly. The poached lobster was amazing. The lobster roll and fries were also a great choice.
(5)Kevin W.
not sure this place needs another glowing review. i just wanted to say that i loved this place, best clam chowder i've ever had. i wanted to take that olive oil straight to the face. they do all the little things right.
(5)Neil T.
I've been to B&G Oysters just once for lunch. We had booked in advance, which you need to do since this play is small and gets busy with the lunch crowd. We showed up about 15 minutes before the reservation and there was no issues getting us a seat. Both my girlfriend and I enjoy oysters, but not the ones that are too salty. We also enjoy the plumper ones as well. We told the server our oyster preferences and she suggested a couple nice ones, which I can't remember. We followed up a few raw ones with the deep fried -- fantastic. Neither of us are huge eaters so we split a lobster roll (also fantastic). There is nothing bad I could say about this place. The food was spot on and the staff were knowledgeable and friendly. I took off a star because a) I hadn't tried them for dinner and b) it is a little on the 'spendy' side. Perhaps a dinner outing will change this into a 5 for me!
(4)Kelvin N.
12 varieties of oyster - carefully chosen - you're bound to like at least one. Served quick and fresh. The rest of the menu is comparable to the quality at most seafood specialty restaurants in Boston; but the oysters are a notch higher. Listen out for the specials - sometimes they are surprisingly good - and they don't repeat their specials.
(5)Kristen R.
The Lobster BLT was outstanding. I'm not a big oyster person, but the rest of my family seemed to enjoy the selection and our waiter was very helpful.
(4)Sarah M.
Very Impressed. My boyfriend made reservations for us for Valentines Day and we got there at 9pm to a full restaurant. The place is definitely on the smaller side, with much of the seating being bar seating, but it makes for a nice intimate environment. We were sat by the hostess, which i could only describe as overly friendly, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. It is a slightly limited beer selection, and the wine was on the bit of the pricier side. I went with a Dale's Pale Ale while my boyfriend went for the Harpoon Island Creek Oyster Stout which was very pleasant. Both beers complimented our food very well. We started by asking our server for a half dozen oysters of her choice, and a half dozen shrimp cocktail. She presented us with two each from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and British Columbia. I can't recall the specific names, but the RI was were so delicious we ordered four more (and i am new to enjoying oysters!). The shrimp blew us away with their size and meatiness and ordered more of those as well. Honestly we could have sat there all night eating more of each. For our main course, i went with Lobster Cassoulet and him the Lobster BLT. Both were fantastic. The BLT had a very large portion of lobster meat, thick crispy bacon, and the coleslaw and hand cut fries were delicious but we hardly could finish them. The Cassoulet was a nice combination of beans and chestnuts, with a generous portion of tail and claw meat that had a perfectly mild butter flavor to it. We were much too full for desert, but they did give us two little cups of hot chocolate which was the perfect little sip of sweetness to end the meal. I would go back here in a second! Looking forward to trying some of the other menu options.
(5)John L.
I liked this place. We went there during Restaurant week. The hostess was great. The server was very nice. My gf was having trouble picking a white wine and the server suggest a good and full bodied wine which we both liked. For me they had PBR! Yes PBR. I love PBR. lol We had the Seafood Gnocchi and Swordfish. The Gnocchi was a winner. The swordfish was... nothing spectacular. It tasted like... swordfish. The gnocchi was tasty. We also had the lobster bisque which had more bisque and broth than lobster meat. It was still good though. My gf had the mushroom risotto balls fried in oil (I have no idea what they are called, I describe them like I see them). The deserts were good. Overall great experience. Not big enough for large groups but definately a nice date spot.
(4)Nicolas H.
I visited B&G twice in the past week. I loved it. Once we had a table (no mean feat in itself) they were efficient and friendly. We did not feel rushed and enjoyed the service. The oyster selection, preparation, presentation, freshness, quality, are all of the highest order. I also had the lobster BLT which was wonderful and did not really seem particularly expensive to me for what it was. I'd go back like a flash. And will next time I am in Boston.
(5)B C.
Went to this place with a couple of friends that love it. It's nice. The ambience was nice on a Friday night. We had an hour wait but were assured by our friends that it was totally worth the wait. And it was. We had some really nice oysters and ordered the lobster BLT and the black cod for our meals. Deelicious! The lobster BLT was just perfectly messy as any good sandwich should be. The cod was very tasty. Service was lovely.
(4)Laura L.
I feel a little weird writing a review on this place since I don't eat oysters (so shoot me! I'm from Denver!) but I must say, I was impressed with B&G oysters. My friend who brought me here has dined here tons of times, and says it's one of the best kept secrets of the neighborhood. First of all, the restaurant is small. I love how you can see what's going on in the kitchen no matter where you sit. Small and modern with a wicked spiral staircase to the downstairs area. Good beer & wine selection. My friend and I split a smoked salmon app with a beet salad and these deep fried teeny potato...squares. Delicious. I had the paella - what appeared to be a small serving, but turned out to be plenty. My friend had the clam plate with garlic bread- I have never had bread so flavorful. My only regret is that I won't be in Boston long enough to come back!
(5)Steve C.
After my 3rd visit to B&G, I HAD to place a review (not that B&G really needs another great review, but it's always fun to share your experience with fellow Yelpers). It's a little old (was there in February), but better late than never! Once seated (made a reservation), we were greeted by our server David who was very attentive and helpful the whole night. They didn't have the wine my girlfriend wanted but David gave an excellent recommendation. We then decided on what to eat. For an App, we went for their "Fins to Gills" menu. Basically this means they use the practice of using the entirety of an animal. We picked the Maine Shrimp. My Girlfriend got the Maine Lobster Roll and I ordered the Day boat Sea Scallops. Before the shrimp came out, they brought over a small taste of a dish that the chef makes. It was seared tuna marinated in miso and a Japanese citrus (ouzou?) served on skewers along with a few green onions. We both loved this dish and my GF doesn't usually like seared tuna. Then the shrimp came out. It was so flavorful. Very good. The lobster roll was great, but the dish that stood out above all the others were the scallops. Cooked perfectly and delicious. "Most likely the best scallops I have ever eaten", direct quote from my GF and I have to agree. I can't wait to go back!
(5)liam f.
Over-rated, over-priced not terrible, but decent food The problem is that is extremely over-priced for the portions and dishes in general. The service was mediocre as well. I think there are many other optons that have better food w/ lower prices
(2)Jingwei Z.
My boyfriend and I love B&G Oysters, especially sitting at the bar area looking at the chefs in action. Food is great. Atmostphere is fun. Service staff aren't particularly nice, but fine. =)
(5)Meggie C.
Oysters were delicious and the waitress was helpful in our selection of a variety. Mussels entree was perfection, spicy but still very flavorful not just shock-value spicy. (WARNING: some members of my group who sampled the dish thought they were too spicy, though they are not the type to order something with spicy in the description on their own) White Rascal beer on tap was quite exciting for me. Beer and wine only though, so my hankering for a Bloody Mary could not be met. AC level did leave a little something to be desired, but I was sitting in the sunny window and was eating a spicy dish so hard to accurately judge. Overall, I would definitely go back again and recommend to friends - although it is definitely pricey, so special occasions only for me :)
(4)Ariana G.
Certainly not what it once was. Loved this place the first time I tried it several years ago. Was so excited to go back and boy oh boy did it fall flat. It was a little embarrassing because I took a friend who was visiting from out of town. I raved about how much I loved this place. The recent experience did not at all live up to my hype. What was once the best calamari I'd ever had, was on par with what you get from Legal Seafood. The oysters were good, but not great. The lobster BLT roll was rock hard making it very difficult to eat. The fries were soggy. The hake was just ok. The worst part of the meal was our incredibly pretentious server. She was almost rude and really made us feel like she was doing us a huge favor by waiting on our table. It was ridiculous. I would not recommend and would not go back.
(2)Alex N.
First off, I must say the layout of this fine, teeny-tiny establishment is very appeasing to the 25% of my paranoid conscience that fears eating at a traditional seafood joint where everything happens behind closed doors. They could be storing their fish in a murky aquarium next to the urinals, or even worse, be defrosting Van De Camps for my 50 quid meal. At any rate, the small intimate space on the corner of Tremont and Warthum is perfect for those foodies who regularly seek the small guys good food. They are serious about Oysters here. Even though I'm not, I can appreciate the freshness of Oysters being shipped in twice daily. I had the very popular lobster roll and pan seared sea scallops with winter squash tortellini and sauteed brussel sprouts. WoW! is my answer to that son! The housemade coleslaw and butter pickles alone are sufficient enough for a repeat visit. If I lived in South End, lets put it this way, they would know my name. You may want to wait for your stimulus check or your unemployment check before you come though. It is pricey!
(5)Helen L.
It's summer, every nice weekend I get to feel the hot sand between my toes and the cold salty water splashing on my face, so it only makes sense that during the week I've been craving oysters. And the oysters delivered. I ordered a variety of the oysters of the day and they were perfectly presented, perfectly shucked, each one a juicy, salty meaty morsel that just slid out of its shell and provided a well needed reminder of the beach on a Monday. A great glass of white wine and absolute perfection. Unfortunately, I'm also still on a quest to find gnocchi that can match Sage's (R.I.P). I ordered the lobster gnocchi here and was expecting at least a mediocre level of gnocchi, but was greeted with a steaming bowl of gnocchi laced with bits of spinach and lobster that was heavier and doughier than my first attempt. Combined with a very pasta-watery sauce, I was almost tempted to send it back and order more oysters. However, it did evoke homey memories of rolling out the little pieces of dough that turned into my first gnocchi, so I finished it. There was a banana pudding on the menu for dessert, and since I love a gelatinous bowl of Nilla wafers, vanilla Jell-o and slices of banana, I figured I should at least try theirs. I'm glad I did. Their homemade vanilla wafers were a delicious melt in your mouth shortbread and the banana compote a perfectly mixed creation so that I never ended up with that lone banana slice at the end. Overall, a little crowded and cramped, the food could use a little more focus, but a delicious, solid summer meal.
(3)Jane K.
Since I'm only in Boston for 24 hours I had to at least get some yummy seafood, specifically a lobster roll. To satiate my cravings the lovely Leighann F took me to B&G, an upscale little joint boasting and oyster bar and lots of delectable (and pricey) seafood options. The decor was pleasant, though I'm not a huge fan of high tables--they always make me feel like I'm in the bar at the Cheesecake factory. We sat at the actual oyster bar so we got front row seat to the oyster shucking. Having sufficiently whet our appetite for shellfish we split a half dozen scrumptious oysters ($2.50 ea) and each ordered up a lobster roll ($29). Loved the oysters and the fries were perfect. I usually prefer naked lobster rolls but this mix was light and fresh, not mayonnaisey like some. The bread was a bit tough--not stale but not fresh--and I would have preferred a buttery soft roll to complement the lobster. It satiated my craving and was more than enough food to have me waddling out of there with a smile.
(4)Keith O.
I have been to B&G many times (even when they had the terrible picture of an oyster on the front sign that looked like a dog poop) The oysters are always fresh and the staff is knowledgeable and willing to give you good information on when they arrived and what you should expect when tasting them. That being said, I have always sat at the bar and not at a table so my experience has always been with the bartenders. I cannot speak to the rest of the wait staff. This is definitely my go-to location for oysters in Boston.
(4)Leighann F.
My darling colleague comes to town and I asked her what she'd like to have for lunch when she arrives. Lobster she says, so lobster it is. We acquired two neat seats at the counter, right in front of all those fresh, delectable oysters. As a full-on local treat, we sucked down a few Island Creeks...clean, briny and the perfect start to a refreshing lunch. Contrary to my usual policy against double ordering (people ordering the same thing when they dine together), we both got the lobster roll. Succulent and lightly dressed, accompanied by crispy seasoned fries, sweet pickles and a really interesting cole slaw. Though I prefer the style in which Neptune Oyster does their lobster rolls, Barbara Lynch's version was satisfying and well-accompanied. I'll be making it a point to come here and try the more substantial dishes. Just as soon as my credit card recovers from shock!
(4)Mike M.
Ok lobster roll but nothing spectacular, expect to possibly loose sight of the roll while holding in your hand, or possibly even if you put it behind a french fry.
(3)Cherie C.
Worth every penny. Oysters are fresh and delicious and served in a beautiful manner. The fried oysters were divine, served in the shell on a bed of homemade sauce atop a pile of salt that was somehow more delicious than salt should be. Even a simple salad was elevated with fresh toasted hazelnut and amazingly fresh greens. Good wine, too.
(5)Jeff G.
Service was average at best. Ordered a medley of a dozen oysters at $4 each and no description given, condiments were minimal. Lobster roll was small but good (amazing bread) . Hostess wanted us to hurry to turn table; gave us 90 minutes and she was hovering after 75.
(2)Lindsay D.
My boyfriend took me here for my birthday last week and it was awesome. We went on a Wednesday and there were a decent amount of people there which was nice since I was a little nervous that we would be eating in an empty restaurant- not the best atmosphere haha. But it was hopping! The decor is simple and pretty. We were seated in a table in the corner which was nice and private. Our server was incredibly friendly and helpful. As for the food, it was phenomenal! I had oysters for my appetizer (duh) and they were incredibly fresh. For my entree I had the seared scallops with the most amazing pumpkin tortellini- yummm! I would absolutely recommend to anyone for a great meal.
(5)Elle A.
The best oyster selection in the city - fresh and chilled to perfection. The service is always perfect and the food is always prepared to perfection. This is a perfect place for a small get-together as it is not too loud or overwhelming. Lovely.
(5)wsl l.
WHAT!!! 2 days of B&G goodness in a row !! oh yeah, that's how I roll. I've been meaning to try this place since it's gotten so many rave reviews. I finally ventured out yesterday for my first experience. Parking was a pain b/c there was no meter parking due to the parade. We circled around quite a bit and finally reached B&G at 4:30. We wanted an outside table but the wait was 45min, so we opted for empty in door dining. This place quickly fills up, small space but manageable even for today's table for 6 :) Absolutely fresh stuff. Great selection of oysters which changes - I am guessing daily since the oyster menu was different from yesterday. Cherrystones are awesome here, I've actually never had them so plum and big before.. that almost sounded dirty.. think food people.. food.. . Oysters, cherrystones, fried clams, lobster & peas gnocchi = delicious... and they have a great selection of wines as well. Service on both days was just ok.- which is why it's no 5 stars. Staff are friendly but kitchen service is slow which is bad if you are soo busy. Before leaving, I wanted to finish off with 3 cherrystones. Took 15 min to chuck 3 cherrystones. It is a bit on the pricier side, but well worth a treat .. or two.
(4)Wai F.
Our second trip to B&G Oysters (first trip was some years back). We came here specifically for the raw bar and hit it hard getting one of everything to start with. After that round we got a second round of all our favorites (Hurricane Island, Tomahawk, Taylor Bay, and Washburn Island). For entrees we got the clam chowder and scottish salmon. The chowder was good, but not nearly as good as the one we got earlier in the day. I thought the inclusion of bacon in the chowder helped it, but my wife slowly picked those out. Oh well. The salmon served with a sauce gribiche was totally delicious. The world would be a better place if we served more of our dishes with this sauce. The fish was outstanding as well. I normally don't eat cooked salmon, but I have to say it was an excellent call this time. We finished things off with a chocolate tart, which was a bit difficult to eat since it was so hard and the knife we were given just barely did the trick. All in all, an excellent dining experience. Thank you, B&G!
(5)Joe S.
When you can actually get into this gem and eat, you will not be upset! Been there a few times now, place is extremely small and always booked so you have to be motivated to reserve in advance.. Fried oysters are friggan amazing and the lobster roll is an A+
(4)Patrick R.
Well executed, posh oyster bar. No complaints except the price tag. If you want to spoil yourself or other . . this is a good place. If you just stuck to oysters and beer, you could probably get away without spending more than 50$. I had a handful oysters from both coasts, all fresh and yummy. I also had the lobster roll, which was satisfying but pricey. They staff was kind and attentive.
(4)Kohster P.
We came for to celebrate our friend's acceptance into grad school here during Restaurant Week. I know they're known for their oysters, which were pretty good, but I'll admit to being a little disappointed by the moules frites and the lobster arancini. The mussels weren't super fresh, and they were served in a bowl that wasn't shallow enough to have even broth distribution across the mussels. The lobster flavor in the arancini was overwhelmed by the rice and the bread crumb exterior. Great ambience, reasonable service, and tasty oysters - but I still prefer Neptune's Oyster.
(3)Martin L.
We came here for pre-meal snack (yes... i know it sounds ridiculous). Very relaxed environment, which has a back court yard tucked away behind the main restaurant. The indoor space is small, with a bunch of seatings around a bar (kind of set up like a chef's table). Yummy aroma of seafood fills the air as you walk into the area. We had an assortment of oysters on half shell, which were all very fresh and they also have a very diverse selections. They were very good even though a bit on the expensive side (all $3+ each, yikes!). We also had fried oysters, which i expect a casual basket full but they served them bite side on the half shell, which was a nice touch. Somewhat regret not having dinner here as everytime a waiter walk by delivering entrees to the table, each dish would look better than the last. Also had a delicious French white. The wait staff was busy but friendly and helpful with our oyster selections. Definitely a place i would go back again for the main course. Might have gone five stars if I tried the main course but hesitant to give it that without truly trying it out.
(4)Sara Y.
i was disappointed in my last visit here b/c the first time i went the service was on point and the dishes we got were delicious and perfectly executed. unfortantely this time the service was not up to par. i had made the reservation for 6 people for myself, BF, BF's parents and my parents for a Saturday night @ 6:30pm. They origianlly told us when we arrived around 6:15, they were "right on time" to seat us @ 6:30. Because the place is tiny, we were waiting outside and around 6:35 I went in to see if the table was ready. The hostess frostily informed me 'someone else from your party already checked in, we're just waiting for the people to get up." When we were seated a few minutes after that, my BF and I got up to quickly feed the parking meter. When we came back my BF asked the waitress "do you have any specials tonight?' and she replied "were you not here when I JUST went over them?' Not the most polite response. The worst part was that my mom told me after she had never told the rest of the table the specials either!!!!! Rest of the meal was normal/fine service- the dishes we got had mixed reviews. I got the lobster roll, which was tasty- but both my BF and mom said their fish was slightly overcooked- which is SO disappointing for a place that was once "best of boston- seafood". Considering how pricey it is, I was disappointed that the food was not better executed. I was also pissed at the waitress' lack of... manners. We ordered a bottle of wine, 3 appetizers and 6 entrees- so it's not like she didn't make money off our table. Sad, because I formerly LOVED this place. It's still good, but not as unblemished as I had previously thought.
(3)Gary L.
I love this place. First discovered by me on my last trip to Boston, it is now on the must visit list. A tiny place that is devoted to all thing Oyster, I recommend sitting at the crowded bar where you can watch them shuck. Last night we had Island Creek, Piper's Point and one other who's name escapes me. To wash it down they were serving the Harpoon Oyster Stout. The chocolate flavor of the stout played beautifully off of the brine of the oyster. The GM told me that the beer is actually brewed with oysters which was a new experience for me. After the oysters, we had what I feel is the best lobster roll in Boston, with house-made pickles, and perfect fries. A great meal at a reasonable price. Highly recommended.
(5)Lauren B.
Monday and Tuesday afternoons - Dollar oysters till 4!
(3)Alicia B.
INCREDIBLE service and selection of fresh oysters - the freshest I've ever had. They are $2.55 each and you can choose from a small menu that covers west and east coast varieties. I liked how the server brought them out and explained which was which, setting up our triad in clockwise order. The atmosphere is pretty cool, with most indoor seats having a direct view to the kitchen. It's upscale without being too stuffy, too. Plus, the music they play is quite random, so you may get a laugh or two out of hearing an old 90's song or two. My date and I shared a bottle of wine. He ordered the scallops, which came with bacon vinaigrette and brussel sprouts. YUM. I ate the skate, which I had never had, but the server sold me on his description. It was incredible. It came with a poleta-like cake that was heavenly. I admit that the portion sizes were a bit on the meager side, but that could be because we were so hungry from walking around Boston all day long. Then again, they were pretty meager. My date got 3 large scallops. Not enough for a strapping young man, if you ask me. As for drinks, the wine menu is large, though it favors the whites. Well, they do serve fish, so I understand why. The most inexpensive bottle (and one that is quite good!) is $39. They even had some interesting and quality beers to order! This is a great date spot, though, and worth trying, if only once. The price can get pretty steep and the menu offers only a few selections, including salmon, lobster and clams. But, if you don't mind spending some money (the two of us racked up over $100 tab), then definitely check this place out.
(4)Joanna C.
I had a friend in town who desired seafood so I suggested B&G Oysters so I could try it out. I didn't make reservations and we were told that there would be a 20 minute wait for a seat at the bar. I'd like to point out that there was an empty table for four during our wait and meal. I was mildly irritated but sitting directly in front of the oyster shucking area made up for it. Watching this guy open oysters time after time was entertaining. Especially when he had to struggle to open the big ones. I hope whoever gets oyster duty gets paid a bit more for the night. Both of us started off with some oysters. There were 12 different kinds available that night. Our waitress was very helpful when we asked for suggestions of oysters by size. She also suggested that we try a certain type of oyster because of their excellent flavor and explained what skate was since I wasn't sure. I really appreciate knowledgeable staff. My friend tried 4 kinds of the bigger ones while I stuck with 2 kinds of the little ones. I think they were from Washington. They were absolutely delicious with a bit of horseradish and cocktail sauce. Just the right amount of briny and no grit. I probably could have just had oysters for my entrée but I decided on the paella with dried up chunks of chorizo, shrimp, mussels, clams and either squid or octopus. It didn't come out in a paella pan so I had my reservations, but was completely won over. The chorizo (does it always come dried out?...I don't think so but it seemed purposeful in this case and I actually liked the texture) added a nice amount of spice to the dish. My friend ordered the fried clams with fries fresh out of the fryer. They were extra crispy and delicious. I did see several lobster rolls being prepped. They looked absolutely fantastic - The rolls were overflowing with really large chunks of lobster. I might have to give them a try next time I go.
(4)Michael H.
Oysters were 5 stars. Skate wing was 3 stars. Overall experience: 4 stars. Great space, tasty food, great company. What more could you want? I guess all I'd ask for is a different preparation of the skate. Didn't love how heavy with was with the lamb ragout. But overall, a great meal!
(4)Arturo R.
Great fresh seafood in a cozy and well appointed environment. The service is fantastic and I have never had a bad dish or poor service here. Oysters are of course a must but the lobster roll, clams and of course the daily fish specials are always worth a taste. Sitting at the bar/kitchen can be a delightful experience as well as you get to see the food prepared in the restaurant's open kitchen. The food is a bit on the pricey side and it is often impossible to get a reservation but it is worth it.
(4)Shaggy S.
Great lobster roll and fries. Tried oysters for the 1st time here and I'm hooked. Got a variety that is fresh from the Boston bay. Absolutely incredible! Got comped a glass of wine because a guy passed out behind me and the paramedics had to come get him. They moved me to another seat at the bar. No big deal. Friendly and attentive service. Winner.
(5)Monique N.
This place is for the hipsters, kinda over rated and over priced. First of all, we came in on a Sunday evening, at first glance I was excited that the place still had some open tables until the hostess informed me that they were reserved (in my head, I was like...ugh...all 5 of the table/settings and the bar seats? ok...), anyhoo...she asked for my number so she can call me when a table opens up in approx. 45 min and gave me some references to other bars I can wait at? Now thats hospitality. Hubby and I went with it and headed back out into the blistering cold looking for the bar. 5 min goes by and *to my surprise* she calls me to come back. Arg. We were seated at the open kitchen/bar which was exciting at first, being in the midst of all the action, but all that grew old quick when you start seeing the wait/kitchen staff jacking around and talking way too long to each other while you wait for another beer. Started off with a round of raw oysters and tall glasses of harpoon IPA. Cant go wrong with that. Ordered one small plate of uni bruschetta, sadly we couldn't ID the uni and our waitress was nowhere to be found to ask. Travelled the distance to try out the lobster roll, what a disappointment. Got it cold, and it tasted...rather generic. It didnt help that we watched the cook prepare it by scooping the lobster mixture from a plastic bucket and just plopped it on the bread...yeah notso elegant. The lobster roll @ b&g is like the new boyfriend that never quite measured up to your first love (Neptune oyster's lobster roll, *see past review*) with every bite I was falling deeper into my memory about how good neptune was to me. *Sigh* If you're feelin trendy, want to blow money, dont care so much about qty. this is your place.
(2)Steve S.
Went here for the kickoff of restaurant week on Sunday for lunch. I have been to Neptune Oyster, and the only thing this place has in common with it is the name "Oyster" and the high prices. If you are looking for an oyster place, pick Neptune before here every time. We started off with raw oysters which were excellent. We both ordered lobster risotto balls. The first order came out with the lobster still cold. They offered to do a new one for me. All 3 balls were still cold on the second attempt. They apologized twice, which was fine, but I did not have them bother with a third effort. One would think that they could fry something correctly after 2 tries. One of my girlfriend's balls, and one of my friends balls were also cold. We just moved on to the second course. Both the salmon salad sandwich and mussels were good. My friend thought there was too much dill in the salmon, but I thought it was good. Dessert was panna cotto and chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting. Panna cotto was really good. Cake was just ok. For their mistake with the lobster they bought us a round (4 of us) of drinks. It was fine. I appreciated the effort and mgr and server both seemed concerned. However, the fryer is an easy thing to use. They will be cooking hundreds of these balls for restaurant week. Hopefully they will get it right.
(3)Sara S.
I've been to B&G Oysters in the past, but wasn't a Yelper nor was I an oyster eater, so I didn't think I had enough info to write an accurate review. However, I just came back from a meal there and ate oysters for the first time and took impecable notes of my dining experience- so here we go. First of all, the whole lobster roll "do they or don't they" serve the lobster roll with or without mayonaisse. Well, it seems as though it's a bit of a luck and timing thing. I asked for the lobster roll without mayonnaise. The waitress went and checked in the back, and they were able to do it. Apparently, they hadn't made the lobster roll mix completely yet, and were able to salvage some non-mayo-ed lobster for me. So, if you NEED your lobster roll to be without mayo, I suggest going earlier in the night when they are preparing for the evening ahead (I got there at 6:30). We were served bread with olive oil. The bread was not warm, and the olive oil was plain olive oil. I prefer when they sprinkle some herbs, pepper, or cheese in it to spice it up a bit. Just a little effort and extra taste makes a big difference. The bread itself was a little hard and chewy. I've never had oysters before so I asked for four of their reccomendation. They gave me one from each "region"- Massachusetts, Canada, Washington, and one other place. My friend also got oysters. He said they were very good and fresh, but I wasn't blown away. Perhaps I'm not an oyster person, but the only one that tasted like anything was the Washington oyster. Apparently the ones on the West Coast are larger and have more flavor. If I were to go back, I'd order West Coast oysters only. The cocktail sauce was awesome, though. Very strong horseradish flavor. They also had a separate house vinaigrette sauce for the oysters with a Prosecco based. Good, but would have been better as a salad dressing! I had the Lobster Roll without mayonnaise, and substituted the fries with a side salad. The salad was fine, and the lobster itself was good. Not great... in fact, it was pretty mushy. It was a generous portion and flavorful though, and I skipped the roll (seriously tasted like a hot dog bun from the grocery store, NOT toasted or warmed which is annoying) and dipped the lobster in butter. My friend got the Lobster BLT. The sandwich itself was a mess, and he picked out the lobster and veggies, skipped the bread and bacon. I munched a little on the fries. They were good. Overall, it was a nice dining experience, but overrated and too expensive. I understand that the atmosphere is chic, it's a place to be seen, and it's an independent restaurant. However, I could have gotten something better or at least comparable at Legal Seafoods and probably had better service (our waitress wasn't great). Eff the "scene" and the "South End". First and foremost, I care about my food and the value for my dollar. Secondly, the service. Oh and PS. The music was downright strange- like weird P.Diddy and Destiny's Child-style stuff. I'll pass on that. PPS- If I could, I'd give it 3.5 stars, but it doesn't deserve the roundup.
(3)Ina C.
B & G: South End Hopping stop #2. I love... - the little cards that tell you what oysters they're serving that day. - the fact that the oyster selection is different all the time! - being able to see into every crevice of the kitchen because it's just right there in front of you! - the white boy with dreadlocks who shucked our oysters. - the beautiful patio. - the muscadine wine that our server recommended. - raw oysters. YUM-ME. - B & G's!
(4)Lea C.
This was my post-graduation dinner yesterday, and I am so happy to have made the decision to have it here. The restaurant is very small, so reservations here are a must. It's on Tremont, so transportation can be a pain, but there's always the insanely expensive valet. And this place is not even remotely handicapped accessible, which can be a serious bummer if you want to take anyone in a wheelchair here to enjoy the goodness. We started with the fried clams, which were light and tasted like actual clams instead of just greasy breading. The tartar sauce to accompany them was also delicious. One of my friends and I both got the lobster roll, and my other friend got the salmon. He loved the salmon, and it looked delicious. My lobster roll was literally the best I have ever had. The lobster was sweet and perfectly dressed and the bun also had a sweet finish to compliment the lobster. It was the perfect size and came with fries, coleslaw, and pickles all of which were equally excellent. We had a bottle of champagne, which was delicious, and a very cute waiter who was getting his Ph.D in Neuroscience...SCORE! I will definitely be coming back for more.
(5)John D.
Expensive for no reason. A $27 lobster roll?! If it's made by Barbara and the $ going to charity, maybe. I had the sea bass and the portion size was beyond minimal, if it weighed 3oz that was a lot. I really don't see what all the fuss is about with Boston having some amazing seafood restaurants at normal prices. The wine list is ridiculously over priced, they buy with the buying power of several restaurants and do not pass on the savings to their customer. The wine list is lacking, for a place that's supposed to be an oyster bar and only have 2 Chablis' on the list is stupid. Have they not heard of oysters and Chablis being one of the classic pairings? Don't waste your money. B&G is all flash and no substance. The service was good and the staff is friendly, that's the only good thing I can say about the place.
(1)Ryan C.
Went here on Friday night 12/9/09. Had reservations for 4 at 9:30, arrived a little early and the place was packed! The hostess saw us waiting outside in their little hub for waiters, and came to get us to bring us inside to warm up by the heater. Sacrificed space for the servers to walk around so we would be warm, def deserves some points. Our server was very pleasant, and recommended us a good wine bottle, which type of oysters to get, and which entrees she preferred over others. I didn't try the oysters, but my friends said they were very good (all oyster ed out from the previous day). Me and my friend split the lobster roll and the swordfish. The lobster roll was great. Very fresh and tasty, and not swamped with mayo like other places. The Fries were crisp, and the coleslaw was very refreshing and tasty, and I hate coleslaw! The swordfish was good, just overcooked. It came with a tangy sauce and diced squash and carrots I believe, a good blend of flavors. Would've been outstanding if the swordfish wasnt overcooked, but still good! My other friends shared the lobster roll and scallops. The scallops looked great, and they were very pleased. Only knock was we couldn't get earlier reservations even though we tried a week earlier. I'm not a fan of eating that late, especially in a city where night life ends early. Most entrees are 22-30 dollars, apps are 8-15 dollars, and oysters are 2.65 each, though they have a wide array and def fresh.
(5)Gerald D.
I think that if you care about oysters, the only way to have them is raw. And the establishment that serves them to you has to be on high alert for quality and reliability. If you don't like raw oysters, skip the rest of this review and read what some other hack had to say. An oyster is a filter, and you are basically tasting whatever passed through that filter. The salt of an Atlantic estuary, the soils of the river that feeds it, the notes of the marsh grasses, the memory of the tides, the minerals of the sea. B&G hits a home run here. A icy plate of fat Wellfleets, Duxbury, or Malpeques from PEI, or sweet, cute Kumamotos from the West Coast, served over the course of an evening with a chilled white Bordeaux or a Chablis, comes close to a religious experience. As you get to know the flavor of each location, you'll become friends with the rivers, grasses of the estuaries and the tides that washed over that oyster. Each location provides for amazing differences as you work your way around the serving plate. It's like a grand tour of the taste of the continental seaboards, with your perfect white wine as your guide and interpreter. You can sit at the outdoor patio and imagine you see the stars in the leafy tangle overhead. Skip the fried foods and lobster rolls. You'll want to stagger back up the stairs to the brick sidewalk, slack-jawed in satisfaction at your oyster-only tour of the coasts. In the summer, come prepared to wait. People who care about raw oysters have already found out about this place.
(5)Hector H H.
It was a cold December afternoon. She was visiting from out of town. We had a hankering for oysters. What better place to go than to B&G? We sat at the bar, ordered a plate of mixed oysters, a bottle of Ribeira Sacra Vina Caneiro, and sat back ready to slurp some salty goodness. A very small cozy place to go for a nice long lazy afternoon lunch. The food is fresh, tasty, and vibrant. The servers relaxed but attentive. Sitting at the bar is a lot of fun. Great wines on the list. It gets really crowded in the evening, make sure you get reservations. It is a bustling, vivacious evening crowd, so go ready to mingle, have fun, and eat great food.
(4)Elaine H.
Definitely a fan of the ambiance and the dining experience here at B&G but in general the Lobster Roll or oysters cannot compare to Neptune Oyster's. Food is not superb, there are definitely better ones out there. But I love the ambiance and the combination of cool/cozy of the restaurant. It's a great place to come for casual date, nice and simple lunch, they also have a couple tables for 4, but generally it's the type of place where you want to sit at the bar and enjoy your wine and food.
(3)Gen M.
Fantastic lobster roll and good white wine (whichever the least expensive). Although the $45 per person (with tip) for just the roll plus a glass of wine is a bit steep honestly.
(4)Debra L.
Great oysters. Good wine selection. Good location. Great service. Our waitress topped off our glasses "just because"...and at no extra charge. But, aside from oysters, the food is only okay and the menu is limited. I had the special (stuffed sole served with chickpeas & escarole. Totally bland. I know sole is generally bland but there wasn't much else to choose from so I went with it, assuming the chef would make it interesting...nope). My boyfriend had a seafood cioppino/stew which was labeled an entree but it was very small - although good. It's loud. And it's ridiculously freezing if you sit anywhere near the door on a cold night. B & G is not a bad place but I gotta say I prefer Neptune...even if it smaller than a bread box. Better food.
(4)Scott T.
I'm from Austin, where we have great Mexican food. We don't have lobster rolls, though, and now that I've had a few on a recent visit, I'm a little concerned about it. Lobster rolls seem to be the "high-low" of gourmet food: simple, delicious, and sometimes, like at B&G, served in a hot dog bun. We tried them all over town, and it lived up to it's reputation as one of the best in Boston. The restaurant itself has that hard-to-define and certainly hard-to-duplicate vibe of success. The small space was interesting, engaging, distinctive, and even a bit elegant. We were there in the mid afternoon, and the staff seemed to be having a meeting that sounded more like a get together of good friends. Our service was excellent, which, given their camaraderie and professionalism, I'd guess is probably the norm here. Their lobster roll falls on the more gourmet side, I'd say, and they certainly get it right. Finely diced cucumber - not chunks, an important distinction, delicate seasoning with a lemony finish, and plenty of the good stuff to fill up that toasted hot dog bun. If the rest of their menu lives up to the way it reads on the menu, the lobster roll probably isn't the only thing they get right. This seems like a great restaurant, probably with a lot of regulars, and a long wait in the evening. I know I'd be here all the time if I could cope with no good Tex-Mex anywhere in town. As soon as a restaurant there learns that queso is not just the Spanish word for cheese, please let me know. ST
(5)Melissa S.
I've been here several times and sat at the long counter each time. When I have gone, I have always ordered at least a dozen oysters. I typically stick to the local oyster choices even though the waitstaff swears they get all their oysters daily. I usually ask them what was delivered fresh that day and they're helpful. I've never had a bad oyster here. In addition, the last time I was there I opted to have one of their entree offerings. Admittedly, I don't recall what it was, but that is certainly not a reflection on the meal. The last time my friend and I went, they were packed but the hostess said we could come back in about a half hour and she'd have seating for us. She took my cell phone, we went and had a drink at Sibling Rivalry and she called us when our seats were ready. That was great. I would say the value is worth the prices they command. You might not be interested in going here if you're claustrophobic as this is a small space. I would strongly suggest making reservations espeically if you're more than 2 persons.
(4)Marilyn T.
This subterranean space is very intimate and perfect for the restaurant. There's a long bar and also tables scattered, and it's great for a group of 2-6, but it may be a tight squeeze with any more than that. I like the small space for an oyster bar - it's very chic and clean. The food is very fresh, and you should definitely choose a seafood option. Many wines pair well with the fresh seafood, and I loved my lobster salad. There's a generous amount of lobster meat, and all the ingredients taste very clean and crisp. Food is simple but highlights the seafood as the star ingredient. Both hot and cold dishes are prepared well. This is a fun place to grab a couple of oysters with friends or to share a light meal. It kind of transforms you out of south end when you sit inside the below-ground space - it feels very private and classy yet carefree and fun. It's definitely a gem in the south end.
(4)William T.
Fresh seafood, friendly and knowledgeable wait staff, fair selection of wine for pairing.
(4)nycsep n.
Lovely little restaurant. Seated right away on a Saturday night with reservations for 2. We were seated right away by the windows. There is a rather large bar where you can eat and then several smaller tables. The tables were high of which I'm not a huge fan. Just a preference and I have bad knees. Our waitress was super upbeat and almost intense. It was a good thing. We asked her about the variety of oysters and she was extremely knowledgeable. She was like an "oyster sommelier" Seriously. She had skills. We had a few oysters though I cannot remember their name. They were very fresh and yummy. No appetizers this round. Not a huge selection but you can get a salad or two. I had the Roasted Mussels and they were amazing. They come on a huge open skillet. They were cooked with a spicy red sauce and had delicious garlic bread / bruschetta. My boyfriend had the Lobster and he said it was really divine. The place was relaxed and comfortable. The only annoyance, beside the chairs, was the music. It was early 90's "Groove is in the Heart" or whatever that song is kind of stuff. Oh man. I'm just happy it was on low and I was having a great conversation.
(4)Emma S.
wonderful atmosphere sitting in the garden. fantastic beer (Dogfish head Festina Peche). Delicious bread and olive oil. Salad was incredible, with fresh parmesan and arugula. Oysters were nice. My boyfriend and i shared a bass with a lobster sauce, but I wasn't terribly impressed. The fish and the sauce were both a bit flavorless, but well-cooked. I would definitely return, although likely for for beer, salad, and oysters.
(4)Joanne C.
Exceeded my expectations. I went there on a Sunday afternoon. The oysters were fresh; I slurped it with a glass of wine. The fried calamari was good, the crab salad (with fennel and avocado) was refreshening though there could've been more crab. The highlight was the Steamed Littleneck Clams (with spicy sauce, garlic bruschetta). It was de-li-cious! The service was friendly and casual. There's not a lot of seating but I like the decor, very cosy, modern yet warm. I overheard that it was recently renovated. I love the bar - oyster bar literally. Can't wait to go back to try more dishes!
(5)Betts C.
Ah, Valentine's Day. It's enough to inspire me to hunt down countless Top Ten Oyster Bar lists and slowly but surely make a decision. (It's not enough to make me buy roses. But oysters, hells yes.) And so I selected B&G Oysters. I made our reservation a week early, and we arrived 15 minutes late, valet parking after uselessly searching for parking between the ice-hardened snow drifts of Boston. They had our table ready and waiting, with absolutely no complaints as to our tardiness. We were seated at a small table next to the bar. It was cozy and nice to be able to watch oyster shucking and whatnot. The table next to us was a tad loud-ish, and in the small corner where we were seated, that was occasionally problematic. However, the somewhat tight space was made up for by the extremely attentive service and excellent food. We had a large sampling of oysters, all of which were phenomenal. It was great to be able to try several East Coast varieties along with one West Coaster. We also shared the fried calamari appetizer (when better to eat fried things than at one's Valentine's celebration?). That was a sparkling display of the difference between calamari at a place like B&G and somewhere more like, oh, Olive Garden. The breading was light and flavorful, the calamari were the least rubbery I've seen. They were large and fluffy in a way that I had never experienced. We also shared the lobster tail entree and a side of brussels sprouts. The brussies weren't the most incredible thing in the world, but they were softly buttery and excellent. The lobster was, well, lobster. We ordered it to give lobster another try, since neither of us really typically love it. The fennel sauce that surrounded it was excellent, and the lobster was cooked to perfection. It's just not the meat that really lights my fire. However, that's not B&G's fault. They also have an excellent wine list. Though nothing is precisely cheap, there are some moderately priced bottles that sounded excellent. We selected a Vouvray which was well work its $48 price and paired stunningly with our briney oysters etc. We were way too stuffed to have dessert, but were able to enjoy finishing our wine and relaxing at our table while our car was pulled around, coats were gotten, and generally, we lived some strange little life of luxury for fifteen minutes. The service the entire time actually gave one that sense. Our waitress checked in on us and brought each course promptly, but without being annoying. She also kept our wine chilled on the bar, but our glasses were never empty. Nor were our waters. The hostesses were friendly and easy-going, especially for the rush time on the Friday night of Valentine's weekend. Even as I write this, I want to go back. We just want to eat a bunch of oysters and have another bottle of wine. I have the feeling that B&G could be our new spot for spoiling ourselves, and that has me pretty excited.
(4)Whytnee B.
I can't say I fully sampled this place, only having a half dozen cherrystone oysters and a glass of wine at the bar. But, I did enjoy my experience and would like to go back for dinner. The oysters were good and had all the fixins. Super fresh and prepped before my eyes! I asked the friendly bartender to suggest a wine, and I ended up with the deliciously tarty Muscadet. My friend had the shrimp cocktail, a plus being that you can order individual pieces of the very large shrimp. I really liked the exposed kitchen, best taken in from the bar. The service was a little pokey, especially considering the size of the place. It seemed the chefs at the raw bar were all over the place, and the chefs in the other part of the kitchen were just chillin'. I want to go back for the lobster roll, by far the most popular item.
(3)L C.
I have been wanting to go B & G Oysters since I first moved to Boston. I finally made it there a couple of weeks ago... & HOTTT DAMN, was it worth the wait & did it live up to its reputation!!!!! First off, the service was beyond exceptional! From the darling hostess, to the servers & bartenders, even the chefs on the line I was very impressed! (Which says a lot considering I work in this industry & am a tough critic!) The hostess (or she may have been a manager?) came & chatted with us several times during the evening to check on us, offer advice, etc. She was darling, friendly & extremely knowledged! The servers & bartenders were cooler, insightful & fun. We sat @ the chefs corner of the bar & had a blast watching dishes being prepared. The chefs were very entertaining & super friendly & willing to converse & interact with us, which is very impressive considering how busy they were & the pressure to execute those delicious meals :) Ahhh... & the food.... Just awesome!!!! We were started off with a fantastic little amuse bouche of beat cure salmon. The texture was perfection! Next course was oysters, of course :) & they did not disappoint! Island creeks are always a favorite & fantastic! For dinner we had a scallop special & lobster special! Both were great! The scallops were buttery, seared perfection & accompanied with a truffle puree that was balanced just right to not be overwhelming. The lobster dish had an awesome chorizo stuffing & a yummy truffled mac & cheese (again, done just right & not overwhelming as many truffled dishes can be)! Dinner was capped off with a rich & indulgent hot cocoa :) Over all, I loved B & G! The food is fantastic, service exceptional & atmosphere fun! I am def a fan!!!!
(5)Evangeline L.
B & G Oysters is a delightfully delicious gem. The oyster selection is always rock solid and pretty much everything on the menu is melt-in-your-mouth fantastic. Both times I've been there I've had the Scottish Salmon. Reason being, it was so damn good the first time. Like slap your mama good. The second time, though delicious, did not live up to the first. However, this was because the prep on the first was more to my liking. The only thing that is hit or miss is the service. First time we went it started off well and the server even asked the kitchen to make the fried oysters in corn flour (or something) so my gluten free friend could eat them. So nice! But then he left and the other two servers who took over were really bitchy. Like, so bitchy that we didn't really feel the desire to go back there again...especially after spending $150 on lunch. To keep it short: the server barked at us when we tried to get her attention to let her know we were stepping outside for a moment. Like super bitchy barking why are you talking to me like that bark. Then tossed (as in Superbowl moment) our bill at us. Alas, the tasty oysters and delicious seafood selection was too strong to keep me away. I just go there expecting bad attitudes so that if they're actually nice it will be a pleasant surprise....wait a sec, B & G is way too expensive for that, good food or not. So please B & G, if you're out there, I beg you to beg your servers to be nice!
(4)Katie M.
I love B & G Oysters. It's super chic, and has a fabulous outdoor patio. The oysters are outstanding, super fresh and delicious. Nice wine list. It's always packed, leading you to see the word bubbles above people's heads reading "Recession? What recession?" This place is awesome.
(5)Sara G.
Simply delicious. Fresh and great menu.
(5)Molly C.
Love it! Love it! Love it! This place is great every time. Make a reservation otherwise you'll be waiting a long time. We always ask for a recommendation of oysters from the raw bar, and the Lobster Coussoulet is fantastic! The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful with making selections. Be aware that it does add up fast, but it's worth it.
(5)Kimmy T.
good food, but GREAT oysters. for the freshest oysters, go to b and g. for a great lobster roll, go to neptunes and get it hot.
(5)Tess S.
My favorite spot in the South End! For a romantic dinner or a quick delicious dinner, B&G is the place to go. I recommend a cool glass of white wine, calamari, mussels & picking out an assortment of oysters. The bread is crunchy and the olive oil is delectable.
(5)Britney Z.
B&G Management, I would like to praise your raw bar chef this past Sunday for turning our meal around from a terrible service experience to an enjoyable afternoon lunch. I am not one to typically write any reviews but I felt a need to do so as I am in the business. My boyfriend & I recently found B&G Oyster on our last trip to Boston & now make it a tradition to dine here every time we are in town - we love the ambiance & the lobster rolls are perfection. On our most recent visit the service was shocking - It began on a great start with oysters & wine while also mentioning to the server we were hitting the road back to Manhattan so we only had an hour. It was when the raw bar chef placed our two lobster rolls on the pick up counter & they sat there (in eye site) for 7 minutes. We began to become agitated & could not find our server. The chef stepped in to re-fire our fries, call to the kitchen, apologize, send out a middle course & dessert. If it was not for him, our meal would have been terrible & I would say we would have never came back. The management on duty did not even come over to apologize himself - you should be proud of your chef and I hope he is recognized for his hospitality!
(4)Shane H.
Went here for lunch on a Friday and ate on the outdoor patio to enjoy the fall weather. My wife and I had the lobster roll and fish & chips. Both were good but portions were on the smaller side and we felt overpriced by about $5 per entree.
(3)Sofia H.
first off the food (the lobster roll, mmm) is incredible. Their wine selection is not only extensive but also quite excellent. that said, it is unfortunately, like a lot of places in the south end, a little overpriced. Also it is a place to go to if you've had a snack a couple hours earlier or if you're planning on getting dessert somewhere else- unless you're willing to spend. The oysters also are quite divine and they are a definite must if you're coming here for the first time. Overall my experience here was good- nothing spectacular in terms of decor and service but the freshness of the seafood/shellfish was incredible. good for a laid-back date or to try something different
(4)David A.
Their raw oyster bar is amazing. They have a whole assortment of oysters daily from different parts of the coast, cape, and even other areas in the world. Wine selections are wonderful and the Fried Clams, are truly the creme de la creme. Everything is homemade including their tartar sauce which is unreal. Hands down best restaurant I have been to in Boston and also is in the best neighborhood (South End). You must go here!!!
(5)Brian B.
I don't eat oysters and my girlfriend only moderately likes them. Even so, B&G was a great dining experience and a cool last-night for us in Boston at a place with a more local feel to it. I ordered the romaine salad and the salmon, which was cooked to perfection and she got clam chowder, which was very good, although overpriced for sure at $14. Very attentive service and the below street level dining room gives it an intimate neighborhoody feel. Overall a smashing success.
(4)KoreanSoup S.
3.5 stars. Good oysters and I love oysters!
(3)Deepa C.
You know that feeling you get after a great meal, with great wine and great company? For me, I get that feeling in my feet. They are happy and tingly and all I want to do is change into PJs and and huge blanket. Last night in the car, I told Josh I could feel the meal in my tingly feet. Normally, I would have deducted stars for the wait. We waited a little over an hour for a space for four. The waitress kept telling us that the table with our name on it was almost ready. But then they would order another round of oysters and another. And then dessert. And I was a little ticked. And then we ate. And then I understood. So besides the wait, everything was wonderful. We were starving, so a round of local oysters, friend calamari and the ceviche tacos were inhaled. The raw seafood was cold and perfectly spiced, the fried calamari was light and addictive. Josh said it best when he told us that all he wanted was a movie theater sized bucket of them. While we waited for our main courses, we watched the kitchen at work. Everything looked and smelled amazing. As soon as we saw something that resembled what we ordered, hope would build and recede as they took the food away from us. The double edged sword of the open kitchen... We had the Portuguese stew (simple and delicious), the lobster bisque (creamy and rich), the seared tuna (one of the best I have had) and I had the lobster roll (sweet meat on a buttery bun with great french fries and decent french fries). We were all happy and full and swimming from the bottle of Spanish white we were sipping. But were we done? Hells no. Another round of oysters (Rhode Island this time) and then dessert. After dinner we were back out in the rain $200 poorer but with full bellies and plans to come back (with our parents...) Great service, lively atmosphere, fantastic food, good location. The only downside is the cramped dining room (no room to wait even, let alone have a glass of wine). Like so many placed I love, I will be back, but not that often. It's pricey.
(5)Sasha R.
When I was in Barcelona, we went to this market there, and in the middle was a counter where you could sit, pick out the fish and seafood you wanted, and they would cook it for you; you could watch it from the counter. Then you ate it, and drank a big beer along with it. The whole amazing seafood experience was something like fifteen euros for 4 people. Funny that practically the same experience here is available only via a "fancy" South End restaurant, for a bargain price of $200 for 4 people! It's a little basement place that looks like a diner, with no room to wait for a table, and no decor to speak of (but that's idea, I think), and the most amazing smells wafting from the open kitchen! There are tables of varying sizes lining the wall, and a diner-like counter wrapping around the kitchen and rawbar. There is a huge wine list - we tried an Albarinio, and it was excellent; a formidable oyster selection, although only 2 or 3 local selections, which is a little odd; a small but creative menu. Fish cooked expertly, but I agree, portions are small for the price. I had a half a bowl of lobster bisque and it was delicious, so much so, that I licked the plate (this is status post 2 glasses of wine). Maybe I wouldn't have to resort to plate licking if they filled the bowl? The service is actually quite friendly, we joked with the waitress and the manager, and we haggled the chefs from our counter seats. The kept opening the emergency exit door right behind us though, and letting in gusts of wintery mix - if that's not done, they told us, the fire alarms will go off and we'll have to evacuate. ??? All in all, a fun night. Will be back - with a reservation.
(4)Claudia H.
There's no better place for oysters in Boston! B&G is a classic restaurant located in the heart of South End. Some say it was one of Kennedy's favorite restaurants in Boston. The wide selection of oysters can satisfy all tastes. Oysters are beautifully served and food is always fresh, no doubt! However B&G is expensive, usually packed at lunch and dinner times. The starters are all great and I would encourage you to try their Clam Chowder. It's lighter and spicier than the regular New England style. The tuna tartar and lobster salad are secure options if you're in the mood for raw fish appetizers. As entrée, I would recommend the lobster roll or the lobster BLT. During the warm days, B&G opens a terrace that practically doubles their capacity. Don't miss this excellent restaurant if you are in the mood for oysters and seafood in general!
(5)Chris F.
Good place to kill some beers and a freaking massive Lobster BLT roll. Oh yeah, and the oysters go down smooooooooth. Natch.
(4)Carolyn S.
One of the South End establishments I've always wanted to visit is B&G Oysters...and today, I got the chance! For my birthday, my awesomest bro took me out for a luncheon at this cool, minimalist spot. In the backyard patio, beneath white cloth canopies, we shared a communal picnic bench with fellow foodies. A glass of cold, sparkling Prosecco started things off. We began with a half dozen freshly shucked Wellfleets. Topped with a dab of horseradish sauce, a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of vinaigrette, these little blobs of deliciousness tasted fresh and sweet with an amazingly smooth and silky texture. I could have eaten TWO dozen of these guys. Remember the story of the Walrus and the Carpenter? Now I understand the ending to that poem. We followed our oysters on the half shelf with the fried softshell crab with pepper soffritto. The crab was perfectly cooked - light, crispy and very tasty (especially with a scoop of the brightly flavored pepper mix.) For a main, we went with what our table neighbor had been eating (it looked too good to pass up): the fabulous chilled lobster salad with tomato, avocado, cucumber and fennel. For some reason lobster and avocado go really well together. How this most excellent concoction ever came to be is anyone's guess. My bro speculated that long long ago, a lobster climbed out of the sea and up into an avocado tree, clipped off a piece of fruit and then fell (along with the avocado) into the awaiting jaws of some creature down below. And thus was born the lobster and avocado salad... ...but I digress. For dessert we went with the creme fraiche panna cotta with citrus tuile, and rhubarb coulis. It was certainly delicious and flavorful, although I prefer my panna cotta with less gelatin. The tuile was a bit soggy, though still very tasty. The next time I go to B&G (and believe me, I WILL be back) I think I might just gorge myself on oysters. The lobster roll looked pretty amazing, pilled mile high with fresh lobster meat. That would be reason enough to go back as well. "O Oysters," said the Carpenter, "You've had a pleasant run! Shall we be trotting home again?' But answer came there none-- And this was scarcely odd, because They'd eaten every one.
(5)r k.
Went with two other friends on a Sunday late evening. The place was fully seated! We ordered up a few of the oyster appetizers: bloody mary oyster, sliders and good old raw oysters. All of them were excellent. The wait staff was willing to replace an oyster that seemed not so fresh. The best part for me was the lobster tagliatelle. It was the tastiest pasta/sauce I have ever had. The soft/smooth fresh pasta and cream sauce perfectly balanced the generous portion of local mushrooms that had an interesting soft-crispness. My friends ordered the seared scallops and they were done just right with delicious sauce to go with it. The desserts needs a lot of work. The next table didn't like theirs either.
(4)Craig D.
Casual Neighborhood feel...very good for Oysters, Lobster Rolls and killer Beers! My favorite was the "Oyster Stout"(Ireland) made with real oysters! NOTE: Parking on the street / meters. Good seats at the Bar too.
(4)Michael D.
I took my family to dinner last night and started with the oysters. As always, they were incredible. 3 of us had the lobster roll for our entree and they were excellent. My wife had the Halibut (substituted for the Cod which had been sold out). The halibut was mediocre. Slightly overcooked, the vegetables were undercooked and the accompanying sauce was tasteless and watery. We have have been to B&G many times and it has always lived up it's reputation. Hopefully this was just a bad night in the kitchen.
(2)Anissa K.
Been to B&G twice, both times it was a packed house. First time we sat at a table, service was terrific and food was spectacular. Second time, we sat at the bar, food and wine was incredible, service was okay.
(4)Kristen F.
Very posh little place in the South End. See and be seen, kind of. Service and atmosphere were both great. The oysters were very good and they change daily. Note though - oysters from out west are better then ones that are more native. I thought I was drinkin from the ocean with the ones from MA. Hip place, sooo expensive. Worth trying it once so you can say you've been.
(4)Kate S.
Oh....so good! B&G is a very small place, almost surprisingly so, but it makes up for it with coziness. You definitely need a reservation to come here because every time I've been, it's crowded. The oysters are definitely excellent - just as good as Neptune's in the north end, I'd say. The food is delicious, although the menu is a bit limited. Don't bring friends here who have picky taste.
(4)Kerry-Ann G.
I went during restaurant week. My conception was that this is the time when restaurants showcase the best they have to offer. I could only assume that this was not the aim of the restaurant. The appetizer was forgettable and the entre seemed more like a joke. In all my life I had never seen shrimp that small. I mean if I were a fisherman I would have thrown them back or used them as bait. I have to say though that the oysters, not on the "special menu," were really good. The different sauces complimented the texture and taste of each oyster and you could gorge yourself on those alone. I would keep a wide berth unless enticed by prospects of their oysters.
(2)Sean R.
You'd expect this place to rock bc it's a Barbara Lynch joint, and it does. The oyster selection is the best, wine prices are decent, and the dishes are awesome...but you must love seafood to agree. The lobster BLT is incredible. I definitely recommend making a reservation as the space is very tight and always packed.
(5)Paul K.
Expensive for me, but the lobster roll really was quite tasty.
(4)Tiffany G.
absolutely amazing!!! try the peppers, any of the oysters, the calamari was delicious and cooked perfectly. staff is amazing and the open kitchen is super entertaining.
(5)S C.
Good oysters, fried oysters, perfect calamari. Liked the lobster roll and cod.
(4)J B.
The service was excellent from start to finish. The food was good with some issues. The oyster selection while superb in taste was not well shucked. I found some fragments of shell in the two oysters. Several oysters were missing the liqueur. The blistered shisho peppers were under-seasoned. The blueberry tart was tasty - but the shell was rock hard and required brute force to break. The filling was runny and not very appetizing.
(3)Laurie D.
Excellent seafood in a lively environment. Small place with great service. The fried foods were light, the wine was tasty, and they had a terrific selection of oysters!
(4)A T.
After being disappointed with my first ever lobster roll experience at Durgin Park, I went out on a limb to give the dish another try at B&G Oysters after hearing theirs was the best. WOW, WOW, WOW! Big chunks of lobster, light on the sauce, bread was fresh and tasty, and the fries were good too. Add a glass of white wine and snap! Mmmmm
(5)Chris T.
We came here because it's owned by the same restaurant group as the Butcher Shop, and we were not disappointed. The oyster selection is top notch, and the staff is knowledgeable and passionate about all the food on the menu. The menu is small, but lots of the dishes are delicious. As at the Butcher Shop, the wine list is top-notch. It's mostly focused on whites, the by the glass selection is great, and the markup is reasonable for Boston. We had a Huet Clos du Bourg 05 - amazing! Overall a great experience. Only drawback is that it's small, and there's only one table that can accommodate large parties.
(5)Ray c.
Just had lunch there for first time. Had restaurant week lunch menu. Amazing. Salmon croquette on bed of watercress and pea compote, lobster bisque and a panna cotta to kill for. Wow. Also tried oysters: Kukamotos. Why did I resist eating oysters for so long. So delicious and fresh. Friendly staff, efficient small place. definately try reserving or eat at the bar. We did and it was fun.
(4)mike h.
Small but fun place if your in the mood for some Oysters and don't want to be with the tourist crowd.
(4)tessie n.
having mostly only had west coast raw oysters, i was curious about east coast/local oysters. so i ordered eight different kinds of raw oysters from Massachusetts, Prince Edward Island, Connecticut and Virginia. at $2.65 each, it was a bit pricey, but thought i'd just give it a try. the oysters were amazingly fresh and delicious with just a squeeze of lemon. however the Virginia oysters were not ones i'd ever order again. very metallic tasting - bleh. the clam chowder was a bit runny (lite chowder perhaps?) and briny, not something i'd order again either. great for the raw oyster experience if the pain of shelling out $2.65/ea doesn't hurt you too much.
(4)David A.
For those who like raw oysters, this is definately a place to go. They have a nice selection of oysters, very fresh and the staff is good at explaining the differences in them. It is also fun to sit at the "bar" where you can look into the kitchen and watch them work. I would also recommend it for couples or a group of four that want to have a quiet seafood dinner and know that they are getting very good quality. I enjoyed it and would go back again.
(4)Jules K.
I didn't have a single oyster or a lobster roll at B&G. Just bucking the trend I guess. But after a long weekend of moving daughter Olivia into BU we were looking for a quality meal and B&G delivered. Period. The room is down from the street yet the tile/open kitchen feel is intimate and not cramped. The calamari appetizer was huge perfectly tender fried to perfection and...oversalted. Our fish courses showed the fine hand of the chef, perfectly cooked and well balanced plates. B&G lives up to its reputation.
(4)Gayle G.
I had one meal in Boston last week and this happened to be it. We were referred here by a friend and overall, I was pretty happy. I'd definitely have to eat here again to get a full impression. First off...loved the sunken patio area. Perfect for a lovely June night. It was, perhaps, one of the best outdoor dining experiences I've had. Of course, you can't thank the restaurant for the weather. B&G has a great oyster menu. We had an assortment of four types and they were all great. My fave was the Salt Pond. I wish we'd eaten another dozen. For our meals we split the scallops ($26, I think) and the lobster special which was a split lobster stuffed with chorizo and breadcrumbs and a side of truffled mac & cheese ($55). The scallops were perfect, sweet and caramelized and cooked just the way I like 'em. The lobster was lobster. I've come to the decision after this meal that I really don't love lobster. I'd prefer crab. That being said, the lobster was tasty, the stuffing added a nice rich saltiness to it and the mac & cheese was good, not fabulous. Next time, I'll stick to the scallops and oysters and steer clear of the lobster. I'm giving it four stars for potential.
(4)Anna B.
Great food. Just be sure to tell them you're in a hurry if you are on any sort of timeline. Lunch was yummy but took FOREVER. The place was not full and we saw the staff chatting. Maybe I am a grumpy old corporate type but I don't think restaurants should assume we have 2 hours for lunch.
(4)Emily J.
Service was lacking, not a busy night by far and the bartender would rather stand with his back to our party then ask us for our order. Very very overpriced, every entree was $30 and I'd say worth more like $18-20. Raw bar was fairly extensive, wine list is impressive. Other than that, I've experienced much better in Boston for less.
(2)Bryan K.
I went here with my girlfriend about a year ago. They had a fantastic scallop app. that we still talk about. We had a few oysters with the usual fixin's but it was the Scallops that really made us love this place. Only drawback, it is very small and we ended up sitting at these weird short bar stools up above the raw bar. kind of an akward seat. Other than that, the place was great.
(4)Sara C.
The debate goes on B&G vs Neptunes...I honestly think you can't have the hot and cold lobster roll in the same category. I'm more of a fan of the hot one from Neptunes but there's nothing wrong with the cold B&G style! The waitress at B&G was really helpful on our oyster selection - just brought us a sampling of everything. Great little place - going back for restaurant week!
(5)Arestia R.
The place is small but cozy and nice. It's almost like you're dining in someone's home, and I like that. The staff is friendly and the service is prompt and impeccable. They have a nice wine list, but of course I need to talk about...THE OYSTERS. Great variety and delicious. They even have special Monday night plates during these cold, oyster season days. I love this spot for date night or catching a drink with my girls. Caution: it's a little pricey...not somewhere I'd turn to every week.
(4)Scott P.
Came back to Boston for a friend's wedding. Last minute arrangement for B&G Oysters. I have been before and it was amazing. This time around I was not so impressed. They had a special menu for New Years Eve, which I decided to give it a shot. Eight days later I am writing about it and for the life of me can't remember what it was I ate, other than oysters on the half shell. I guess that says quite a bit. Please don't get me wrong. I am a huge fan of Barbara Lynch. She is in fact my favorite chef in Boston. I still have yet to try her No. 9 Park but can't wait. It's just that this NYE dinner was not memorable at all! I don't know if that was due to me expecting more or because, well it was NYE. I will commend the staff that evening. The valet was great, my friend was lost and he got on my cell phone and stayed with her until she arrived, our waitress was fun and very sweet and the host was just as welcoming. Give it a shot but maybe don't go during a major holiday. Barbara will always get two thumbs up from me, it was just a one night bad dining experience.
(3)Jenny H.
The oysters here are amazing! And its awesome that there are different selections for the oysters. The entrees themselves were a little overwhelming. The lobster BLT was good and there was a hefty amount, including fries... but the bread got a little too tough for me. Then again, I'm not the biggest fan of sandwiches. Between B&G and Neptune... I think I'll choose Neptune.
(4)Todd F.
Lobster BLT! Enough said. Great selection of Oysters and wines.
(5)Rob D.
I have no idea why I haven't reviewed this place before - it's pretty remarkable - when I was there with a friend the other day, I was reminded how remarkable it was. ...so, why is it so remarkable? (I got to use that word 3 times in 2 sentences. Excellent.)... It's so remarkable (4 times) because Boston is a seaport town, and there's like...what...6 restaurants that acknowledge that simple fact, and maybe only 3 that do it right. B&G does it right. The oysters are local, the bar is excellent, the rest of the meals are great, and the outside seating (also ridiculously rare for Boston) is perfect. They also have an excellent wine list...so, a bottle of Rose and 2 dozen of the little fellas was a nice way to spend a hot & humid Boston afternoon...
(4)Jim A.
Stop number 1 on our Boston tour. We came late on Saturday afternoon. They delivered what we were craving - succulent, fresh oysters on the half-shell. Our server was knowledgeable and helped guide us to the right choices. The seared tuna with fennel was also great - very good tuna, well seared on the outside and rare inside with a nice shaved fennel to accompany. Wine list was a bit expensive for the atmosphere. Good choices, but spendy. Service was ok - our server seemed to have a lot going on and could have been a bit more attentive. Five stars with better service and a better priced wine list.
(4)fabio m.
I will never go back to this place, the staff is incredibly rude, especially the hostess (which is bizarre since her job is to welcome you). After a few annoying experiences, I finally had enough: made a reservation to take my girlfriend. Arrived on time, and as it was a sunny but very hot day, we asked to sit outside BUT IN THE SHADE. While getting menus for us, she started helping another couple that came in, ignored us, led THEM out to the patio and sat them at the only table in the shade! Then, turned to us, sat us in the sun. When I explained that her behavior was wrong, her reply was that she did not control which tables were in the shade, or what. Ridiculous. Good food, but nothing earth-shattering. I can get oysters anywhere.
(1)Alexis R.
There are plenty of solid options around, but I usually end up at B&G when in Boston and craving a lobster roll. The atmosphere in the garden is totally zen. They also have a short but well-curated beer list that has a Belgian ale or two. Again, there's lots to choose from in this category, but this is one of my favorites. I understand the complaints about the cost of the roll but market price for lobster is never cheap, and if it is: it tastes that way. Cheap. And not worth it. B&G is.
(4)J B.
MMMMM...I love this place, and if I had wads of money to blow each week on tasty oysters, stellar seafood, and attentive service, I'd be there all the time. This is a spot that REALLY focuses on quality --everything from the freshest oysters to the homemade butter to the interesting wine list shows attention to detail and quality. You'll pay for it though, as mentioned above. If you're looking for a spot to suck down a few oysters (a rotating list appears each day), enjoy a cold beer or glass of prosecco, and share an entree or two, this is my pick of oyster bars in Boston.
(4)Nick F.
This place is great. The quality of the food is impressive. Big plus: great wine selection (not huge, but great) and a knowledge staff. Additionally, the ambiance is great and I love the area. A must for me anytime I am in Boston.
(4)Carla B.
Oh how I wish this place existed in L.A. Everything was fabulous - the cozy, casual ambiance with the most wonderful food. The kind of place you could just drop into to have a bowl of clam chowder, and read a book. Speaking of that clam chowder, it was heavenly - loaded with juicy clams and assorted other goodies. The lobster roll was superb - no claw meat - each mouthful a joy. Desserts were yummy too.
(5)Liza H.
Fabulous oysters! I love sitting down to an array of the little darlings freshly shucked here. Inevitably, the Wellfleet oysters win hands down. The Sicilian seafood stew is super. Worth a visit
(4)Steph P.
Raw oysters are pretty damn sexy, haters be damned. It's only appropriate that you have a sexy place to eat them. From the chrome table tops to the exposed-and-up-front kitchen/bar area to the dimly-lit intimate seating, B&G is a contemporary, chic kind of sexy setting for you to indulge in some super fresh mollusks and other seafood. As you can imagine, this is not the ideal place for large groups (there's really only one option that allows for about 9 people to sit at two tables put together). But they were very kind in accommodating our reservation and even cooler for playing the various RnB/hip hop hits from the 90s we mentioned as we remarked at (and tabledanced to) the awesome playlist. For such a small restaurant, it's impressive how many types of oysters are available - printed for you on a little piece of cardstock customized to reflect that day's selection, which come from both coasts of the US and abroad as well. I was also grateful for the extensive appetizer menu (cause I had foolishly eaten beforehand), which our large party ordered a bunch of things from. The calamari and soft shell crabs were tasty and not too greasy, while the fried artichoke was on the heavy side (though I liked the presentation of the whole artichoke, esp getting to the heart). The tomato and white bean salad was fresh and light, yet substantial. The tableside presentation/creation of the chilled cucumber soup was impressive, and the soup delicious. Everyone at the table who got an entree had only good things to say....kind of made me bummed that I didn't order one. At the end of the meal, we ordered one of each of the desserts - mascerated strawberries w/ shortbread and creme fraiche, tiramisu served in a glass, and olive oil cake w/ peach sorbet (the favorite of many). As you can imagine, sexy + seafood = spendy. Oysters costing $2.55 each can add up quite quickly...and of course you have to be sipping some kind of varietal to complete the mood (yummy prosecco and a nice selection of wines all around). But seriously, sometimes you just gotta go all out for good food and atmosphere. If it matters to you, it just might be worth it because with the setting and all those aphrodisiacs, you may have a greater chance of getting laid - like the couple sitting at the bar shamelessly sucking face in front of everyone.
(5)Dre T.
Very good seafood, just not quite as good as expected. Still happily enjoyed the food and had a good time.
(3)Jenna C.
I apologize in advance for giving this 1 star because I dined here with some of my favorite people who gush over how much they love it. So, Robbie and Ryan, I apologize for this but i must stay true to my outspoken ways... I went here for restaurant week. Granted, its the first time B&G has ever done restaurant week, but boy did they royally screw up. First course: Lobster Bisque for 2 of us and Caesar Salad with blue cheese (boring!) for the others. Mediocre at best, but unfortunately, it was the best part of the meal. Three of us ordered Sole for our entrees and the other got shrimp. The sole was not seasoned and tasted extremely boring. But the shrimp....whew. They looked like the little shrimp you get in shrimp lo mein from the greasy corner Chinese joint. There was a total of 10 of them, placed in a line, over a mcnasty orange sauce. Gross. When I tasted it, I felt bad for my boyfriend who had chosen it. Then comes dessert...how can you mess that up? Chocolate cake and a lemon cake with cherries. We had both at the table. The lemon cake tasted like a combination of bitter flour and rancid lemons. Completely inedible, but of course it was downed by my half starved boyfriend who had consumed 4 shrimp for dinner. On top of all of that, the restaurant was FREEZING, smelled like fish, and P. Diddy played over the speakers half the time. Come on. Oh, and the waitress served my friend the incorrect dishes during every couse...I'm hoping this was the most off night they have ever had.
(1)DJ L.
The rear patio is quite nice. Nothing fancy, but a cool small space down the stairs off a side street... the interior is small and cozy just a few steps below ground level. the raw bar is a nice place to sit for a beer before heading to a table. Only two beers on tap, but nice options. Food was delicious, but not over the top gourmet. A bit pricey. The staff pool their tips which is quite nice as the staff works as a team.
(5)Mike M.
Ive been here a couple times mostly for a change of scenery when we go out for little-necks for late-lunch. No complaints except for the prices and nothing to rave about either. For some reason my father kept wanting to go back there with me so he must have his own reasons for liking it. I wouldn't go there unless i was in the area and entertaining people. Ill have to go there again and explore new dishes based on what you yelpers suggest.
(3)Alice C.
glass of chablis and a dozen oysters. sat at the open kitchen / bar, watched the kitchen turn out delicious things like soft shell crab, shaved asparagus salad, etc. all in all a low key sunday evening!
(4)Bjorn J.
I just love this place. It is beautiful, the service is good, and when I think back to my visit my mouth waters. It,s pricey but you get what you pay for. I had the lobster roll and would order it again, and next time I will also try some oysters. Looking forward to visit again.
(4)Nadia K.
My friend and I went for restaurant week lunch, it was ok- the lobster beignets were good, but far from great... probably pass on those next time- they just lacked good lobster flavor and the dough just tasted under done in the middle instead of like they were filled with lobster. I had the fish option with olive tapenade which would have been much better if the tapenade was on the side because it completely washed out the fish and zucchini it was on. As far as desserts we got one of each their what I call chocolate brick- thick fudge on top of a mediocre pie crust bottom (really guys, lose the pie bottom it's a completely miss), but the chocolate part was definitely worth the 10,000 calories it came with. The yogurt ice cream was poor- icy and lacked the good yogurt flavor that places like pinkberry have nailed. My friend got the oyster BLT which she liked a lot, but only ate half the bread because otherwise she couldn't take a bite. Overall, glad I went for restaurant week and not for the normal prices and probably wont be going back
(2)Thuy L.
We made a reservation to B & G after hearing such great things about it, and we had friends from out of town that wanted seafood. I was hoping that the deck would be open since the interior of the restaurant is really small. There are like 6 tall tables and 4 tall chairs. Alas, it was not open, so we had some bumping going on. The servers were very attentive. We ordered a bottle of champagne and instead of leaving the bottle on the table or to the side, our server would come back numerous times to refill our glasses without us ever having to ask. Since I'm not an oyster fan, I didn't order any. But the rest of the group did, they ordered 4 different types of oysters and they all thought that they were pretty good and yummy. I'll take their word for it. To start, we shared a beet salad which was also very good. Then two of us ordered the Lobster BLT, which was AMAZING. Imagine--two thick strips of bacon, large pieces of lobster, 2 tomato slices, and a lettuce leaf sandwiched between 2 Ciobatta slices. Granted, the bread is a little rough and ended up cutting the roof of my mouth, it was still AWESOME!!! The fries were okay, but the buttered pickle slices were so good. They were not just your run of the mill grocery store bread and butter pickles, they were better. My friend got the lobster roll and he said that it was good, but the BLT was better. And my bf got the fried clams, which were fried to perfection, not too much, not too little, just right. It was so good that even when my stomach was telling me that it was full, my mind was begging me, "Just one more bite."
(4)Ngoc F.
I have read so many reviews on the lobster roll, so obviously I ordered the lobster roll. It ended up being really flavorless and overpriced. Why did I make that 4 hour drive?? I should have made a detour and went to the Cape!! Oysters were good and the fries were crispy to perfection. This restaurant is checked off and on to the next lobster roll.
(3)Marie A.
it hurt to leave this place. the patio was so lovely, like someone's backyard. the staff so friendly and kind... from host to the cook i ran into as i walked down the spiral staircase to the restroom. our server knew her menu and showed no annoyance as we asked question after question. she described a dish as "sunshine" and i just knew to order it. the presentation was beautiful, flavors fresh, wine list impeccable. my only complaint and it seems silly, is the lobster roll was a little bland. but, really, that's an inconsequential detail. i live on an opposite coastline, but i will be recommending B & G to all.
(4)yana v.
Walking into this basement establishment I didn't know what to expect in terms of decor. Looking threw the windows as you walk by it doesn't seem like much. I was pleasantly surprised with the contemporary decor, dim lighting, and cozy space. Was a bit confused since we couldn't find the hostess stand, which turned out to be at the other end of the floor. When I called for reservations the hostess asked if we had a preference for inside or patio (i couldn't imagine where in the world that patio would be in this tight South End space). Passing threw the door in the back, leading to a very pleasant glass covered entrance to the below street level patio that's surrounded by a stone wall on all sides. Having a fairly large oyster selection and myself not being a oyster connoisseur, the waitress was very helpful in describing what the different oysters where. When we got our selection of 5 different types of oysters we also got a little card telling us which oysters were which. This turned into an oyster tasting session, learning what kind of oysters come from what part of the country. Some are saltier then others, some larger, some smaller, creamer, clearer. I never expected to get such a nice lesson going out to dinner. I do have to say that this was the most pleasant part of the dinner and I would definitely come here any day if not for the dinner then for the oyster experience for sure! The entrees themselves where all good, but very small portions. It was enough for me, but others in my party were left desiring more. My tuna was cooked perfectly and very interestingly seasoned with an olive sauce (this took me a minute to figure out). I haven't seen this combo before but if you like olives and tuna then it's definitely worth a try. Others seemed to be happy with their entree choices, but our thoughts kept coming back to our delicious oyster experience. The prices are a little high, but over all a good experience and a convenient location since once you're done with dinner you can jet across the street to Beehive or down the street to 28 Degrees for cocktails. Although if you're valeting tell the nice boy that you're going across the street since apparently it's cheaper then when you're going to B & G oysters.
(3)Taylor H.
My wife and I spent a great afternoon at B&G's and tried a wide number of items on the menu. My favorite oysters were the Bristol Bay but I also tried the Island Creek and Conway Royale.
(4)Wayne D.
I love the way an oyster feels when I pop it onto my tounge. Cool and slimy, like a mouth full of ..... Okay folks, get your mind out of the gutter! This weekend I sat at the bar of B&G Oysters on Tremont street and I ordered a glass of Pinot Noir. The world then stopped. At least the restaurant did when they saw my waitress bring over a half dozen Kamata Bay Oysters sitting in an ice bath. "Red wine with Oysters?" some guy asked me sitting to my left. "Yeah" I replied rather sarcastically as I downed a Katama and washed it with a sip of beautiful pinot noir from Napa. "It's not so bad ya know" I continued. Seared tuna with tarbais beans, swiss chard, Meyer lemon salsa was good but slightly dry and overdone. fried ricotta Beignets wth my own bowl of chocolate dipping sauce did me in with a glass of sparkling prosecco. The Beignets were good, not great. They didn't have a lot of flavor but the presentation was great. Service was ... well, lacking. The hostess practically served me as the waitstaff scurried around the room. It was never clear who my server was. Barbara would have not been pleased with the service on this night. I didn't even see a manager around the entire evening to help expedite service. I would go again for sure though. Pinot Noir anyone?
(4)Ben Z.
B&G Oysters is a treat for seafood fans--especially lovers of the raw bar. They normally have an excellent selection of oysters and the fried clams and lobster dishes are some of the best around. The room is in sunken grotto, and the cool blue tiling and dark lighting give it sleek and minimalist nautical feel. The kitchen is completely open and situated behind the bar. Servers are friendly and knowledgeable. If you're not a oyster expert, I recommend asking the servers for their suggestions. Oyster quality varies on a seemingly daily basis and the waiters seem to know what's good at the time. I've never had a B&G oyster I didn't love. If you're still hungry after oysters entrees range from fried foods to lobster to fresh fish. My favorites are the lobster roll and the fried clam plate...always cooked to perfection and truly tasty. You should know, however, that B&G ranks as one of the most over-priced restaurants in the South End, if not all of Boston. As good as the food is, it's hard to stomach paying $30 for a lobster roll. The wines by the glass are also mediocre and overpriced. All in all, a solid four star.
(4)erik s.
After having been a devoted B&G Oyster's fan for years I must confess my new found preference for Neptune. Several times this summer I've had the opportunity to dine at Neptune and become accustomed to their way of doing things and now I apparently cannot go back to B&G. Don't get me wrong, B&G is good but Neptune is vastly better. Last night I dined at B&G and things were off by my new Neptune standards: service was friendly, but slow; several of my oysters weren't fully released from their shells and contained more than the usual amounts of shell chips and ice from the bed of ice that they are served on; my lobster roll was small by Neptune standards, its bun was wet and squished flat like it was prepared many hours earlier then placed on the bottom a heavy stack of items in the refrigerator; lastly B&G charges more for so much less. Do yourself a favor eat at Neptune Oyster!
(3)Mia D.
I wish I could give different ratings for different things...so here goes. First - $16 for valet parking? Really? We sat outside which was quite lovely even with a few tree droppings on our table. Didn't like that we couldn't push our bench closer to the table (since it is all one piece) so I felt like I was eating quite far away from the table, not too comfy. Our server was decent - although I wasn't quite sure she knew enough about oysters or the wine for my tastes. She was nice enough to give us plenty of time to order. So, order we did...we got champagne by the glass to go with our oysters. Ordered a dozen, a few Island Creeks (my fav), some from Nova Scotia (tasty) and some from Washington (meh). Very tasty. But when we tried to get recommendations from our server, she couldn't really describe them by flavor but only by what was most popular. Our first bottle of wine was not good - again her recommendation after hearing we were after a Pinot Grigio-like wine. The wine she brought out was just not good. We all felt very uncomfortable with the process (I've never sent a wine back before!) and I think she could have solved it by saying, hey if you don't like it, no problem, let me bring you something else, but she stood there - just as awkward as we were! Ugh...finally we told her, we didn't want it, so she brought us something else (again by saying, it's very popular) and that one was fine. I think a little more training in wines would be good for the staff. The food - I got the fried artichoke - not good! I was expecting small artichokes that were fried whole (like in Italy, sooo delicious!) - instead it was a medium regular sized artichoke that you couldn't eat the leaves of - they were burnt and not edible! I put one in my mouth and chewed...and chewed...and chewed. Finally I had to spit it out. I ended up just eating the heart which was drenched in some sort of mayo like sauce - yuck. The main course was much better - I shared the stuffed lobster with my friend and the lobster was delicious, the "stuffed" part was at the top of the lobster, so not really part of the dish, seemed like just an afterthought. The mac & cheese was delicious. We skipped dessert to go to Picco (read review), so can't comment on that. What I liked - the oysters were great, I loved the ambience of the place, I think I just ordered the wrong things. My friend had the soft shell crab app which she said was delicious. I'll be back, but maybe just for some oysters and champagne...
(4)Chris M.
It is no Neptune Oyster. Overpriced and a bit pretentious.
(2)Jaime M.
Food is definitely good, although not particularly memorable..Definitely great oysters! Not a huge fan of the decor-- felt a little cheap. Service was prompt & friendly. I would go back, but I'm not running...
(3)Nick W.
Good oysters but pasta tasted like canned Mac and cheese . Overall pretty good place for lunch but the food sometimes does not deliver. The service is good though and I would go back (but I would not get pasta again!). Overall if you want oysters and your in the area B&G is a great place to get your fix.
(4)Laura M.
AMAZING! Definitely come to have at the very least a delicious glass of white wine and some oysters outside on their patio! Such a cute atmosphere and the food is delectable! B&G was on my list of places to go before I officially leave Boston and I really wish I had come here sooner (but am kind of glad I didn't because I would have a lot less in my savings account). My boyfriend and I sat outside on the patio but the inside is equally as amazing and the atmosphere is very casual chic. Seeing as this is an Oyster Bar, we ordered half a dozen oysters from their vast selection (2 from Island Creek, MA, 2 from British Columbia, and 2 from Washington State). I am partial to West Coast Oysters as I think they are less briny and have more of a citrus flavor so the Washington State were my favorite. I had a delicious glass of White Wine from the Loire, which paired amazingly with the oysters. For dinner, I ordered the Tuna, which was rare and amazing; my boyfriend had the soft shell crab, slightly fried and very delicious! We ordered the semi-freddo for dessert. I wasn't a huge fan and probably would not order it again. Other than dessert, everything was absolutely amazing! I recommend making a reservation, as it gets very crowded (we came on a Friday night at 9:30 and there was still a 30 min wait!)!
(5)Dee N.
THE ABSOLUTE BEST OYSTERS IN THE CITY! And...everything else on the menu. I've been there at least a dozen times and tried the entire menu, lunch and dinner, and everything is absolutely delicious, beautifully presented, the freshest ingredients. People rave about Neptune Oyster....but hands down, B & G IS FAR SUPERIOR. They've got a great formula. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Andy A.
Excellent food and good service. Great oysters and good choice. Nice people and not too loud when I was there. Well worth a visit.
(5)Lee S.
went here with no reservations on a tuesday and had to wait 45 minutes but was worth it. food is fresh and good and nice presentation. good service. may be a little overpriced for the portion sizes but other then that a good restaurant
(4)Mark W.
Small place that offers a huge food experience. Of course get the oysters to start you can choose from over a dozen. The main courses are great and priced right. The service is always excellent. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
(5)Heidi E.
Stopped in for dinner on a Monday night with a friend. The place was hoppin! Had 6 awesome fresh oysters, mixed...Wellfleets, little creek and some other variety from Washington state. The best part came next: seared scallop special with some sort of honey soy reduction, topped with a mix of red grapefruit, shaved fennel, snow peas cut on the bias, sea salt, purple bean sprouts (?) and a few other beautiful leafy toppings that I couldn't identify. Perfectly cooked, perfectly presented. The pinot gris from Alsace was also very good. B&G was a bit pricey, but a real taste adventure all around. They aren't open every day. Check out the website for more information.
(5)Mihir P.
I had heard so much hype about the Lobster BLT so I decided to go. The restaurant is small and diner-like. The best way I can describe the space is that it feels like you are in a large public bathroom. You know those with small dotted tiles on the floor and walls. But its clean so don't worry. I like the open kitchen and how those sitting at the bar can see the action. I got the lobster BLT which was generous and fresh. It was more of a lobster salad roll than a true lobster roll. Unfortunately the traces of red bell pepper overtook the delicate flavor of the lobster and the bacon was hard. There was too much mayo on it as well. I thought it was stupid to serve the roll with potato chips and not fries. I asked to sub fries and they charged me extra which I think is tacky. It wasn't worth it because the fries were way too greasy with tiny puddles of oil nestled into the grooves of the potatoes. I also hate Tabasco. Cholula is so much better. When will chefs learn?????
(2)Jo B.
At B & G last night with 5 friends for anniversary dinner. We were promptly seating at our reservation time. Waitress was attentive enough and knowledgeable about the food. We had a good time, but have a few comments. Food was all fresh, well prepared, oysters were a stand-out and the clam chowder was an inventive take on the usual thick soup. ONe friend was comped dinner due to an extra long wait for his entree - nice touch and appreciated. The lobster roll was ok - small but filling with good fries and especially liked the pickles. It was good, but for $27.00 I expected more. Other friends loved the cod entree. Another friend said the fried clams were good, but you have to feel comfortable paying the price for an unremarkable dish. We had a cozy table right overlooking the oyster prep station and it was fun to watch. Cons - very small pouring of wine for $12 per glass. Restaurant was cold, music from the cheap speakers over our head sounded bad. Overpriced. Overall a good meal, but for $125.00 per couple (a few wines and beers, no dessert and not including valet), this is a once a year place at best for me.
(3)Jewel A.
B&G Oysters is fantastic! So fantastic, that my first dinner there inspired me to join yelp and write this review. Hopefully, this will be the first of many! They have a great and extensive selection of oysters (the best that I've seen and tasted in Boston so far) from both the east and west coast. We sat at the bar, which doesn't require reservations, to get a closeup view of the oyster shucking and dinner making. Our waitress was attentive and helpful with wine pairings and oyster insight. If you want a table I would recommend making a reservation, or getting there earlier in the evening (before 7) to beat the dinner rush. Also looks like there's outdoor seating when the weather is nice. In addition to the oyster sampler platter, my boyfriend and I split the Norwegian Salmon with fregola sarda, fennel & citrus salad, which was refreshing and delicious. It was a great combination of flavors and textures. Initially I was concerned that the citrus salad might overpower the dish, but the orange and grapefruit bits were the perfect accent to the fennel. Best of all, for dessert we savored the panna cotta. Not many restaurants in the area serve panna cotta...and not many make it this great! From beginning to end, our meal was stunning. Their panna cotta was what truly made me fall in LOVE with B&G! I can't wait to try other dishes. Overall, if you want a romantic yet fun dinner with a quaint small restaurant feel and love seafood, then B&G is your spot! Also great to dine with a group of friends (who like seafood, of course).
(5)Steven S.
This review covers two restaurants, namely B&G Oysters and Neptune Oysters, and only one dish at each of these restaurants, namely their lobster rolls. Why, my dear friends, would I go to these two places with the sole purpose of trying out their respective takes on this classic New England dish? Because it's a crap-load of lobster on a bun... that's why. With that said, the styles of these two lobster rolls are completely different: warm and buttery vs. cold and mayonnaise-y. Obviously, the cold version is the "classic" lobster roll, and there has been a plethora of posts about how a warm roll is akin to going to the Democratic National Convention and proclaiming that George Bush Jr. is the best president ever. I have never been a traditionalist, so I am reviewing these dishes for what they are. First the similarities: 1. You get a lot of lobster... not just enough to fill the bun, but enough to REQUIRE eating a good number of fork-fulls before picking the damn thing up and trying to take a bite out of it. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way, and ended up spilling about a tail's-worth of lobster meat onto my plate when I tried to take a bite from the get-go. 2. Each goes really well with a beer, preferably something that can stand up to the natural butteriness of the lobster meat. I suppose you could get a nice acidic white, but a nice New England draught (Geary's Winter Ale at Neptune and Tremont Ale at B&G) seemed like the perfect accompaniment to me. Differences: 1. B&G: cold lobster in a light aioli with lemon and chives sprinkled on top. The lemon gave the dish the perfect amount of acid to balance the lobster. Not really mayonnaise-y at all. Lobster chunks broken up to just the right size so when you take a bite out of the roll, you don't have to chew through a piece of lobster or get an overly large piece in your mouth. 2. Neptune: warm lobster in butter on a toasted brioche bun. The warmth allowed me to fully enjoy all the natural (and added) butteriness of the lobster. Often times large chunks of lobster that were obviously crab or tail meat. While a bit harder to eat, the large chunks gave me the impression that there was some dude in the back who cracked open a fresh lobster, chopped it up a bit, put it in the bun and splash some butter on it. The service in each place was great. The decor was a bit different, with Neptune sporting marble tables and an old-school oyster bar feel, while B&G had a more modern touch with a nice open kitchen in the middle of the restaurant where you can watch them do their magic. Both of these places are must-go's, even if you only like lobster a wee little bit. I'll be back next time I'm in town, but I think I'll bring some cholesterol-lower medications just in case...
(4)Mardget P.
What a great place to spend a beautiful New England summer weekend afternoon. The patio is fantastic--quiet, shady, and private. Wonderfully knowledgeable server who wisely steered us to Deer Creek oysters--like little pats of butter, so good! Also loved the delicious sparkling wine from Burgundy and the fried oyster appetizer (dreaming about the tartar-like sauce). Not sure who G is, but B really, really knows her stuff.
(4)D S.
Yesterday I had an oyster craving, a really serious one. Not only did I want oysters, but I wanted the perfect oyster eating atmosphere: elegant yet comfortable, clean, inviting and sexy. I found this at B&G Oysters! Sitting at the bar at B&G is like going to a super classy theme park dedicated to oysters, and every time you try a different type of mouth watering mollusk it is like riding another delightfully thrilling ride. The glittering mounds of oysters waiting to be shucked stare at you from behind the bar counter, begging you to order more and more. The tiny Oregon Kumamoto are buttery, sweet, salty and inappropriately delicious. None of these oysters need anything more than a hint of lemon to help them shine. I highly recommend this place to any and everyone. It is really a gift to have a restaurant like this at our fingertips.
(5)S. M. S.
All-star brilliant. Perfect way to enjoy Boston's best summer flavors.
(5)Emily C.
I love their oysters. Honestly insanely good. However, I fell down their horrible spiral staircase and when I told my waiter that it was super slippery and someone should wash it so nobody else fell, he acted like it was nothing. Also, it was wicked expensive. Good, but expensive.
(3)Chris C.
While I've only had selections of oysters and the lobster BLT here, either of these items alone more than warrant a five star rating. Their oyster selection is very impressive, with approximately 20 different types of oysters to choose from. As for the lobster BLT, let go now of any fears you might have about the amount of actual lobster meat you'll get. The sandwich is loaded, and delicious. Also, given the small size of the restaurant, your food arrives very quickly. As for the actual atmosphere of the place: it's small, cozy and comfortable. If you can manage to get the seat/bench in the corner by the window in the early afternoon (any season but summer here folks... might be hot), you get a comfortable chair, the sun on your back, and great food in front. Trifecta baby.
(5)Theodore B.
not really impressed cramp space with only bar and maybe 12 tables uni bruschetta starter was unmemorable lobster rolls r better at neptune or just make your own [market basket special 5.99/lbs...make 2rolles under 10 bucks] its an okay place. oyster's fresh, wine list pretty good, and staff is friendly. maybe the front hostess need to lie a little better, as our reservation turned into an hour wait..then a call 10 mins later saying our table was ready
(2)Tammie P.
The lobster roll that I hear everyone rave about was just OK. The fries, cole slaw, and pickles that came with the roll were awesome. The buttered-bun that held the lobster was delicious. The only thing missing was the yummy lobster.
(3)Bill Y.
Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. There may be nobody on the planet who is more picky about fried clams than I am and, brother, I've come a long way. Once upon a time I thought that Howard Johnson had the best fried clams extant...please one and all, forgive me. I was just a kid from the Midwest..what did I know? Many years have passed since my immature tastes crowned HoJo. After many visits to Boston over the years and finally moving here in retirement three years ago I've had occasion to eat a lot of clams and I now must tell your all, that nobody, but NOBODY executes this fussy dish (so many ways to go wrong) than our friends at B&G Oysters. Given all the reviews and the proven excellence of Ms. Lynch my comments don't mean much and rightly so. I did just want to express the hope that they will continue to produce such magic from the Fryalator. On first bite one's senses are filled with the smackdown delicious blend of light crust, unbelievably tender, sweet crustacean and piquant sauce. The combination is flatout bliss. One never gets the dreaded "gob" as each morsel stands in magnificent isolation. The serving is just right so that by the end the clams are still nicely warm. I don't know how B&G has achieved this triumph but they've done it and they never let one down. Since the only seafoods I enjoy are clams, shrimp, oysters, and the sainted "lobsta", (Yep, I'm a heretic) and must rely on the exclamations of joy from my fellow diners who do enjoy "swimming" seafood. The kitchen is capped off by a first rate wait staff. My only reservations is that it is quite small.
(4)Bob S.
Great seafood, waitstaff, music...what else can I say? Been here several times during this past year and have yet been disappointed. The food is second to none. Lobster BLT, lobster bisque and the fresh oysters (Duxbury) are all to die for. The wine list is extensive and the waitstaff are extremely well informed with what is offered on the entire menu. Impressive! My wife and I happened to arrive a couple of weeks ago on a Thursday night, sat at the bar and witnessed Chef owner Barbara Lynch working the grill. What struck the two of us is how she had the pulse of not only the food that was being prepared but what was being enjoyed by her customers. Being attentive to return plates that may have not been completely finished. She was on her game in a big way. The prices are steep but the overall experience is well worth the money.
(5)AJ G.
I went here last Saturday night after not eating all day. I was visiting from San Diego and was told by my friends that B and G had the best fish in Boston. We got there and there was a hour and a half wait. I told the hostess that we would wait because I came all the was from San Diego to eat there. She called us within a half an hour and we got a great table. The service was great and the waiter explained everything very well. My dinner was great and I enjoyed my dining experience.
(5)Elaine L.
Excellent fresh oysters! My party and I had 5 dozen oysters. YUMMY!!!!
(4)Rozina K.
I moved to the South End more than six months ago and ever since I moved, I've wanted to try this place. After a failed attempt this summer when we arrived sans reservations and were told the wait was over an hour, we finally got a chance to go back this weekend. Ambiance wise, I have to say I was much more impressed with what I saw over the summer, even though I didn't have a chance to taste the food. People were hanging out outside and it was more relaxed. The restaurant is quite small so going with a larger group is not an option. We were sat at a private table in the back and the table was quite awkward because I felt like we were practically infringing on the couple next to us (who by my judgement were on the worst first date EVER). So on to the oysters. Of the dozen or so oysters listed on the menu, we ordered about six varieties and were told that they were out of two of the ones we ordered. Uhhh..what? Your claim to fame is oysters. How do you run out of oysters??? Its in your freaking name! We ordered others and enjoyed them very much but I have to say they weren't remarkable (no better than Legal Seafoods). We also ordered calamari which was average and a side of french fries, which were to die for. For desert, I ordered the chocolate mousse desert and was again told that they were out. So disappointing. I want to give this place four stars because they had Duvel on their menu but it will be 3 stars for this average dinner. Not sure I'll be going back.
(3)Brandon M.
I can't possibly say enough nice things about this place. Their lobster roll is the best in the world...or at the very least Mass. As a novice oyster eater I was intimidated by the selection, but the servers are awesome and never fail to suggest a few delicious choices. The staff are always friendly and despite the smallish nature of the place I've never had to wait too long for a seat. I'd suggest sitting at the bar, where the servers are attentive and the view of the chef doing his thing enhances the overall experience.
(5)jim I.
The oysters were incredible, and the tuna steak was pretty tasty too. Downsides: Not a full bar. Pretty small, so you should call ahead. It gets expensive quick, so know that you are dropping a nice chunk of change before you go... that said, the food was very good and I didn't feel the prices were way out of line.
(4)Jaime V.
There were two girls next to us and one of them was savoring every bite as though she was a food critic off the clock. They seemed extremely pleased when they left. As for our meal, we were sat on the patio which was awesome since it wasn't too loud and the servers were ever present. The lobster roll is supposed to be superb, but I didn't try that; instead I ordered the cacciuco, which was unbelievable and on par with Neptunes' cioppino. The oysters hit the spot as well. Order a bottle of wine, sit on the patio towards the fence (so you could people-watch), or not, and wait till the lights come on; it changes the atmosphere entirely.
(4)Valerie D.
Dined in July 2010. Food was well executed and tasty but banal. Flavors would be easy to find at other restaurants. (Sam LaGrassa's: best clam chowder in the city; Neptune's oyster: best lobster rolls in the city). I would have overlooked the common flavors on the menu if the service was up to par. However, service was cold, rude and indifferent. When we asked our server about her favorites on the menu, she rolled her eyes, sighed and dropped her head like we being tremendously bothersome to her. We are out-of-town'ers that wanted to experience the restaurants popular items, not the server's attitude. I understand that we were dining at 9pm, so she may have had a long night in a busy restaurant, but that is NOT the way to garner repeat business. Atmosphere was young and loud. Not many soft surfaces in restaurant to drown out the noise. Overall, not worth the price tag in my opinion.
(2)Michael T.
I'm stingy with my five-star ratings, but B&G Oyster ALMOST made me click it... Clam chowder: amazing Oysters: amazing and ridiculously fresh. Texture, perfect. Accompaniments? Excellent, but horseradish wasn't included by default :( Lobster roll: ta-die fo'. $27 may seem a bit steep, but seriously...just bite the bullet. Tons of lobster meat with practically no mayo (was there any?), little lemon, on a buttered/toasted roll. O.M.G. The fries were excellent, as well...a slight crunch and not too greasy. Make reservations for either lunch OR dinner on a weekend, just FYI. We had to sit at the counter because we didn't make reservations for lunch on a Saturday (people do that?).
(4)Jennifer D.
This place was great. I tried out a variety of fresh oysters, and the waitress was knowledgeable enough to tell us about the regions that they came from as well as the taste and size of the oysters. We also ordered the clam chowder which was a very different twist on how chowder is normally prepared: it wasn't as thick, but it was so flavorful and delicious.
(5)Liza S.
I had three desires for this night Oysters and eating alfresco and my date. In no particular order all three were delicious! So to start; Yummy! Yummy! Yummy! I have eaten oysters from Louisiana to Maine and these were the best yet! Shucked with the juices intact, served on ice with sauce and lemon, which wasn't needed, the oysters were like velvet. When I slipped one into my mouth, strait from the shell, the bite of saltwater rolled over my mouth while the velvety softness caressed my tongue. Then biting into the belly, sweet juices spurted to mix with the brine I was in heaven. They were pure & unadulterated as if I were sitting on a oyster bed shucking them right then and there. For and entree I had the Tuna Tar-Tar and a Sorrel Salad. Like the Oysters the Tar-Tar was fresh and very tasty. It had a very delicate flavor which was a soft sweetness which served with an aioli sauce which had a nice tang to it was a very nice compliment. I love a great salad forget the mixed greens and leave the iceberg lettuce in the north pole, this salad was tops!. Very sharp in flavor and fresh served with a whisper of dressing. We shared a banana pudding which usually is heavy and like the kind Granma would make but it was not. This had homemade vanilla wafers and lightly whipped cream on top. The pudding part was loose, lightly sweet with good banana flavor to it, yum. Overall I could have easily just eaten more oysters and a salad to be happy with my supper. Since it was hot as Hades during the day the thought of being inside was too much, so my date and I opted for the sunken patio. It was below street level with Trumpet Vines growing all over and has a cool lush feeling. The lighting was subtle reflecting off the white triangle shaped awnings that were stretched over head. Our waiter was tops and came and went with just enough attention. We were not rushed or made to feel that way, so kudos to him. What a great place! I would return in a heartbeat! As for my date he truly eclipsed everything and the oysters stood up their reputation......
(5)William T.
Seriously good oysters and fish. Excellent service. It's pricey and it is worth it. We shared a dozen oysters - all of which were very good. The Hake was beautifully presented and cooked perfectly. The host was professional and the waitress who served us (we sat at the bar) was attentive and knowledgeable.
(4)Harri S.
Oyster isn't in the title for no reason. They do the oyster right. Best oysters I've had in Boston hands down. They are shucked in a way that provides for a nice balance of salt water and full bodied, fresh, delicious oysters. For dinner we ordered the lobster roll and salmon, but the waiter heard the second order as same one. I wasn't too thrilled. I had had Barbara Lynch's lobster roll at Parrish cafe and frankly wasn't too deeply impressed. That opinion didn't change this night. The waiter was so apologetic for screwing up the order though that we were given a complimentary dessert. And my, WHAT A DESSERT!!!! We had the pecan pie ala mode and it may have been the best pecan pie I have ever had. Tasted so good, and so homemade, I might go back just for the dessert and some coffee.
(4)Jennifer D.
From the vigilant service to the exquisite food, To the lovely decor that sets the right mood, B&G is my go-to for plump lobster rolls, Crisp calamari and clam chowder bowls. Those fries - oh so crunchy! Those oysters, how salty! Not one single time has a trip here been faulty. A patio seat in the summer is grand, As is spotting some bar seats on a visit unplanned. So make haste to the South End and prepare for a treat - You'll enjoy the crap out of each bite that you eat.
(5)Chrissy G.
Have you ever shoved your face in a crab body in an attempt to get the last bite of a dish? I have! Stuffed deviled crab. You must try. OH and the salmon toasts. Yes. Loved this place. Sat at the bar for lunch and the bartender was super nice and accommodating, food was excellent and it was fun to watch them make it. Will definitely be back.
(5)Grace O.
I should mention first that a week ago I was just at Neptune, so that set the bar very high. B&G was a long walk from the T, which is pretty nice on a summer night. It's a nice location to walk in, and you get to build up an appetite. The bar had a nice atmosphere, very very friendly wait staff. However the music was loud rock, and the guys behind the bar kept throwing plates and generally handling everything roughly, which 1) just didn't look right, and 2) made a racket. Food! Got a selection of 4 pairs of oysters. Unfortunately forgot to take down their names but I do remember the last, Penn Cove, was a very nice, small and plump oyster with quite a deep flavour. Creamy, not too sweet, not too salty. The others were decent as well, no standouts. Deviled crab starter was quite enjoyable. Lovely texture, good taste. Wish the crab taste was more pronounced, though. Poached lobster was surprisingly small for a pound? Still tasty nonetheless, but very slightly overcooked. The corn and butter sauce were very fragrant, and I delighted in getting more bread to soak up the sauce with. Fried branzino was very nice, very fresh. The dipping sauce was very reminiscent of home - Southeast Asia. I know many people aren't used to eating whole fish but don't let that put you off ordering this. For dessert we got both the strawberry tartlet and the bombolones. I really loved both - however I think I would have enjoyed the bombolones more on a winter's night, since it is a hot dessert. The tartlet was very refreshing, the custard was very sweet but light, and the crust was surprisingly flaky puff pastry instead of the usual crumb. All in all it was a pleasant visit. The food didn't wow me - in fact I think the dessert was the highlight of the night, which is kind of weird when you go to a seafood bar expecting fantastic seafood.
(3)Joy C.
Maybe I came in with too high of expectations, but the overall meal left me feeling underwhelmed. We started with ceviche and oysters. The former was average and didn't have much flavor while the latter delivered on their freshness. Next, we tried the famous clam chowder which had a creamy consistency and bits of thick, hearty bacon. That was probably my favorite part of lunch. My main course, beer-battered fish and chips, was accompanied by tangy pickle slices, tasty coleslaw, and fries. Though the three pieces of fish were small, their delicately fried exterior almost made up for the portion size. I also tried some of my husband's fried ipswich clams which were also perfectly fried and juicy. Service was acceptable, though I did find myself having to ration out my water for a good part of the meal since the waiter was nowhere to be found. The trendy atmosphere is aesthically pleasing, and the patio is a great nook to hide away for drinks on a hot day. In short, B&G serves quality food, but I don't feel the prices are justifiable for the portion size and service.
(3)Melissa M.
Came in for oysters and ended up getting them and the most succulent, luxurious, colossal oh my god so good shrimp. I've never had better shrimp. Yes they are four bucks each and worth every dollar. Nice service, very small restaurant and they have a sunken patio. Prices might seem high but it is so worth it!
(5)Ryan R.
Went here with a friend to grab a bite for dinner on a Tuesday night. As always, the restaurant was pretty packed, but we were lucky enough to grab a reservation at one of the tables along the back wall. To start, we decided to go with a bowl of the clam chowder and the burrata and peas appetizer. The clam chowder had some good flavors, but I thought that the clams were a touch on the chewy side and was probably my least favorite dish of the night. The burrata and peas appetizer was a good-sized portion and was nice and refreshing, especially on such a hot and muggy night--though I wish there were a couple more pieces of grilled bread with it. For our main meals, we decided to split the halibut and the blue cod. Both pieces of fish were cooked PERFECTLY--I mean, I don't know if I have had a piece of fish cooked that well before. The meat was so flaky and tender and paired well with the rest of the plate. The fish was also a good portion size and priced reasonably. To end the meal, we decided to go with the chocolate mousse after reading so many reviews on Yelp. We were not disappointed, as it was super flavorful and a somewhat light option to complete a fantastic meal. Overall, this place is very small, but it provides a great ambiance and was a perfect venue for our dinner. Definitely worth checking out if you are a seafood lover.
(5)Xingyi G.
This is legit best oyster place of Boston. Great lesson for oyster starter. Compared to New York . Boston oyster is the real thing !
(5)Jessica W.
We ordered the oysters, BLT with lobster, heirloom tomatoes salad, and mussels. The oysters were great, extremely fresh and perfectly shucked! Enjoyed the salad and the mussels as well, but could have done without the BLT with lobster! overall, I really enjoyed the ambience and food!
(4)Jon D.
How perfectly can something work out? 12 different oysters of the day, well, that's a perfect dozen on a 90+ degree day. They were all delicious and fresh. My favorites were the Pipers Point, Onset, and Fanny (heh heh) Bay. The service was very friendly and the oysters were opened perfectly, with very little grit and a large amount of liquor preserved. Very nice! On the pricy side for sure but totally worth it.
(5)Sherry Z.
On business travel in Boston and had a lunch at B&G on Friday. The patio in the yard was full but here were plenty of seats inside. I had shorty stack, half butter poached lobster and ricotta bombolone for dessert. Oysters are very fresh, but I was actually more amazed by the butter poached lobster. Ricotta bombolone has four balls. I would appreciate if the waitress had told me it might be too much for one person.....I took away half of them, but they taste better when they served hot.
(5)Vania Y.
Cute chill little joint in the South End. Have been so curious to sit outside here ever since the weather warmed up! I love their entrance in at the gate. Ordered the shorty stack from the Raw bar. Food is fresh and the prawns amazing! So hearty and juicy. Oysters obviously delicious. Also ordered the fried clam bellies- hearty and the dipping sauce is amazing we had to ask for more! Overall enjoyed our experience here- it was chill and relaxing which is what I desired for a Saturday night after work. I did knock off a star due to pricing and also it being summer- have been lucky enough to travel around New England and enjoy a lot of good seafood. I would also add that while I did enjoy the oysters here that were included in the shorty stack. I did like the Island Creek ones a bit more but don't get me wrong, the oysters here are still amazing.
(4)Alex R.
Where do i begin? Almost hard to know where to start when the experience from soup to nuts is top notch. I couldn't take pictures fast enough because we were INHALING everything. RESERVATIONS ARE A MUST-but walking in on Superbowl Sunday early afternoon we couldn't be beat. From the oysters to the chowder, the pea salad and the beer we couldn't have been happier. The service was outstanding, the space is small, but so worth it. relax, open a beer, have some quality fish and enjoy. Nuf said
(5)Sonia N.
You can always count on B&G for some great quality raw bar items. We ordered the shorty raw bar which is the smaller of the two raw bar samplers and it included oysters, clams, crab claws, crab cocktail and finally cockles, which was an interesting and new variation for me. We also shared the whole fried branzino. Also very fresh and I would highly recommend this entree to anyone who's adventurous to eat a whole fish, head and all. Quite a presentation and the quality can't be beat. It can get a bit busy in here and you'll never get a same day reservation but if you can score a seat in the bar, it's a good spot to stay, relax, unwind and slurp!
(4)Jennifer B.
Best lobster roll, thin crispy fries and New England clam chowder I've had to date. Quaint little restaurant with a cool atmosphere and lovely decoration.
(4)Dana Y.
My boyfriend and I came here on a Saturday afternoon/evening. I made a reservation because I was afraid it'll be fully booked. But if you're planning to go around 4-5pm, it'll be fine, there will be a wait but not too long. The restaurant isn't huge but they try to take advantage of all space possible, without cramming people. The staff were very, very, very nice and attentive! I loved them. It was fun talking to them. They took time to recommend things and was patient with my indecisiveness. To start off, we ordered the beer-battered fish and chips. The fries were so good! Crunchy, warm, and flavorful! I couldn't stop eating it. The fish were a little too soggy for my taste - but I didn't mind it since it was fresh. Then we ordered the "High Rise" - 4 JUMBO shrimps (they were huge!), a dozen oysters, 4 crab legs, and another 4 of two other things, I forgot what it was called. It also came with a little thing of ceviche and a little cup of crab meat with mayo. Both were delicious. The High Rise, though, I WAS IN LOVE. Oh yeah, although we were so full, we had to get the chocolate mousse topped with salt caramel - it was delicious! Everything was fresh... oh I have to go back again! HIGHLY recommended!
(5)Kimberly L.
What a truly magical dinner. We kicked off the meal with 3 different types of oysters, all of which were superb. Our waiter helped us pick out a bottle of wine to go with it & was spot on with what we were looking for. We then all ordered the clam belly platter (because hello, why wouldn't we) & it was some of the best fried clam bellies I've found off of the cape. I recommend coming here in the summer, sitting on their patio, and treating yourself to some of the best seafood in Boston.
(5)Sheila R.
I liked B&G Oyster but have to admit that I was a little disappointed. This was my probably my own fault--I had heard only heard rave reviews so I think I set the bar higher than what I actually received. The food was good, but I ordered the lobster roll and have had better ones at other places. The place was packed (always a good sign) and it was on a beautiful summer night, so it was a fun place to go, but I had hoped for something a little better. My husband felt the same way, but as an oyster connoisseur, he really enjoyed his meal. I should note that the staff was wonderful, and overall, it was a fun experience.
(3)Jonathan S.
Awesome place, great selection of oysters from the Pacific, Canada and the East Coast. Stylish restaurant, decent wine list and the outdoor section is so pleasant on a nice summer evening. I don't think I've had anything but oysters there so can't comment on the other dishes but I'm sure it's really good. I'd recommend the white burgundy with the Beau Soleils. Big groups could be an issue, not enough large seating areas.
(4)JH J.
You can never go wrong with B&G. This gem is right around the corner from my place and while reservations are definitely suggested, a party of 2 can typically be seated at the bar - especially if the patio is open. Based on previous visits here, I'm guessing I've eaten my way through 75% of the menu (excluding desserts as it's not my thing and the whole fish entrees as the heads scare me). Oysters are always fresh and the crew will help with your selection if you ask. On this visit, the Maine lobster roll was calling my name: extremely light while still melting in your mouth. The fries aren't my ultimate favorite (there's a spice that throws it off) but I typically just have a few to satisfy my fried food cravings. Other go-to items include the Atlantic blue cod and the house pasta (often a pappardelle). Also, if you've never been to a Barbara Lynch food event at B&G and The Butcher Shop, I highly recommend hitting one up. Whether it's an Oysterfest or Harvestfest, the food is fantastic and the wine never stops!
(5)Jeff T.
B&G Oysters in the South End is one of my favorite restaurants. It's very pricey and one of the pricier restaurants in the South End. I love bringing my Mom, Dad and my partner their for brunch on Mother's Day. I enjoy dining on appetizers such as Oysters on the 1/2 shell, Deep Fried Oysters and/or Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail and drinking a Kettle One Martini up with a twist and just a wash of Vermouth with my dear friend Jordan. During warming months the outside patio is divine. The waitstaff are knowledgeable, personable & hard working. This place runs a tight operation upon entering through all stages of the dining experience.
(5)Tracey W.
Oysters are amazing. Our waitress was filled with knowledge and had great advice. Yum! Great atmosphere and really not long wait at all!! They will text you when your table is ready. Hillary was our waitress and she provided such great tips!
(5)Anthony R.
Overall this is a good oyster bar, but vastly overpriced. 3.75 for a plain oyster that you can get anywhere is not going to bring me back sans corporate AMEX. The shrimp and crab claws are colossal, steer toward them if you want classic oyster bar fare. And $38 for a lobster roll? No, it doesn't come with caviar or gold dust or unicorn glitter. Hmm... The real reason to come to B&G is the seasonal selection of small(er) plates. The whole fried branzino looks great so it's perfect to show off to your date/coworkers. Who doesn't love anything fried and topped with fennel/citrus? The beer list is inadequate but they do have a decent wine selection. Get a side of brussels sprouts or shishito peppers to replace your fries if you want to up the lobster roll to a full meal. And don't skip the bombolone if you like classic italian desserts!
(3)Austin M.
Stopped by here when on a short vacation is Boston as it is highly recommended by locals. Go with the oysters, it's a no brainer. I also highly recommend the poached crab, it's not a big portion but delicious. This place Is a bit pricey but well worth the experience and cuisine. Will try to come again next time I'm in Boston.
(5)Mr T.
B&G Oysters was very accomodating for a walk-in by my group even on Mother's day. We were able to find seating outdoors, at the bar or indoor tables. The wait staff was very good about bring our meals out on time and knew the menu very well. We ordered the Atlantic cod, the sugar snap pea salad with mint, house-made ricotta, and the oyster 'hi-rise' plate. The fish was perfectly cooked. The salad was fresh and appetizing. The oysters were amazing with the options of dressings. Next time around, however, I will be hesitant to order the little neck clams as part of the 'hi-rise' plate because there seemed to be more sand and grit than usual. Overall, we had a great time and will be visiting again for our next seafood outing.
(4)Amanda K.
Came here for lunch yesterday. Raw bar stuff is on point. Accompanied by the beautiful spring weather of Boston. Food: We ordered the crabmeat cocktail from the raw bar and it was delicious. Also got oysters of the day, they were so sweet, juicy and fresh. For entree, I got the house made crab tagliatelle and was blown away. My friend ordered the Atlantic blue cod and she said it tastes absolutely amazing. Service: spot on, very attentive and friendly. Atmosphere: I wish it has more open space. Like the Legal seafood down by the harbor. After all, when a seafood place has a "seafood" and more opened space feel, it makes the experience more congruent with the food, if that makes sense. Because of the tight space, I took a star away. Also, reservation is a must because this place gets packed. I will definitely come back but only with reservation and small group.
(4)P C.
Went for a few oysters and couple of drinks. Oysters are at a premium of $3+ each. Higher than downtown Boston. Menu prices very expensive and wonder if worth the cost. Presentation of some dishes being prepared looked quite nice. Friendly oyster bar staff.
(3)Trinh T.
B & G Oysters is a seafood/oyster bar in Boston that specializes in fresh oysters & seafood dishes. It's got a wonderful outdoor patio that takes advantage of the nice Boston weather, and is within walking distance from Boston Commons. My Overall Rating - 1 1/2 Stars (Atmosphere, Food) Atmosphere - We came here on a Monday lunch without reservations, so our only seating was outside. The good news is that the outdoor patio area is in a sunken, covered area and has great charm. The walls are a combination of rock & mortar and there's a screen to block the sun. We never saw the inside of the restaurant but there was no need for the outdoors was great. 1 Star. Service - Unfortunately the service wasn't as nice as the setting. I think they were understaffed, because it seemed there was only one server for all of the outdoor seating. Our food also took an abnormally long time to come out, causing us to take it to go. When explained our urgency to our server, not only did she not speed things up (paying our bill for example), there was no sense of urgency or care. Like I said, I hope it was because they were short staffed. No Stars. Food - B & G Oysters does have some outstanding value for lunch, where you can get half a dozen oysters, a soup/salad, & a sandwich. We ordered a number of items in combination. The oysters were excellent. Not as large as Texas Gulf oysters and a bit more briny. I was a fan. They also served raw clams, but they were too chewy for me. I had their lobster BLT, which had excellent bacon but a bit too much bread and not enough lobster for me. Their lobster roll was also just ok, and after visiting Maine it wasn't even close. The final issue was it took forever to get the food out after the oysters/clams made it out. I clocked over an hour after until we got or main dishes. So not only did they seem short staffed with servers but in the kitchen as well. 1/2 Star. Will I Return? - I want to give B & G Oysters another shot. I want to think I had an unlucky visit since the reviews on Yelp are so solid. I won't rule out a return in the future, but there are way too many good restaurants in Boston that will have to be tackled first. No Stars. My Yelp Rating Scale (Sum of all parts): 1 Star - Atmosphere - Is it a cool dive? Perhaps an upscale place? No matter the type, atmosphere plays a big part and I'll give a star if I like it or thinks it has great charm. 1 Star - Service - You can have a great meal with bad service. But that's also what can make a five star joint drop to four. It's important to the dining experience that service is great and on point. 2 Stars - Food - I'll award up to two stars for the food, since this is the main reason we dine out. Sometimes the extra star is given for value, but it's really all about the food. 1 Star - Will I come back? - If I know for a fact I'll return, I'll give this a star. A place has to make an impression for me to return. Each Category can be given up to 1 star except food (2 stars) because I consider all these categories important to the overall dining experience. I will sum them up to provide my final Yelp score.
(1)Greg D.
My dead hampster, Cappy (short for cappuccino), would still be hungry after eating here. I'm paying $29 for swordfish with ratatouille I am not expecting a piece of fish the size of my thumb and the ratatouille to do this paste spread out on the plate. $29 for a lobster roll? Go to ICOB where it is cheaper. Most oysters around $3.50?!? Got no time for this S*#&! Wayyy too expensive. There are other places that are just as good and cheaper.
(3)Jon G.
The oysters were phenomenal, and the service was great, too. Why 3 stars? Because it's way overpriced. You don't need to pay $3.50 per bivalve in Boston. Go to Legal's or Local 149. Draft beer was $9. And my $35 fish n' chips prix fixe lunch amounted to three fish nuggets and fries. Delicious nuggets, I'm not saying they weren't. But come on, it's lunch. For $35 there'd better be magic in there, because I can get better beer battered fish in pretty much any Irish pub in this town for half the price.
(3)Peter I.
If I could give 6 or 7 stars I would. Just an outstanding well rounded meal. Started with the peach salad and it perfect as was the snap pea salad. Just get this to share it and you'll thank me. Your welcome! Oysters were a variety plate and all briny and fresh. Again just about heaven. I had the swordfish which was life changing, small but delish. Friends had the fried clams and lobster roll, both got raves. Service was spot on. Great area to hang after. Great night! Thanks B&G. I'll be back.
(5)Etianne M.
Every bite was so delicious, small portions, don't expect to walk out feeling stuffed. The al la carte menu and oyster menu is fantastic . The house ceviche is very authentic Peruvian style, with very fresh fish and a perfectly spicy leche de Tigre. Awesome.
(5)July W.
Been there several days ago. That's my first time there and I didn't know where the door was. A server walked out to grab something. She saw me and my friend looking around trying to find the door but didn't point it to us (no sign of door). Love their oysters. But the lobster roll was a bit disappointed.
(4)Nicky F.
The restaurant is pretty small, it is better if you make a reservation beforehand. Luckily it was too cold outside there weren't that many customers in the restaurant today. We got the bar seats. We ordered the seafood platter which was about $47, see picture. It was worth it, the oysters were great and they face quiet a few shrimps. Everything was fresh, just perfect! I ordered the lobster roll, personally thought it was not as good as the ones in Neptune oysters. It was small compared to the other ones I've got, but maybe because this was a lunch menu. I would not recommend you to get the lobster roll here. My friend ordered the moules frites and she said it was good. It was big and fresh. The waiter is kind of awkward, it looks like she wants to rush us through the meal asking if we want to order more or are we done, constantly. Best thing about this place would probably be the oysters.
(3)Kaia T.
Small hole in the wall place. Stopped in here for lunch. The kitchen is very open with a wrap around seating area / bar - similar to a diner style, but more upscale. We ordered calamari, shrimp cocktail and fried oysters for the table. The shrimp cocktail were 6 pieces and enormous!! The fried oysters had a unique sauce underneath between the shell and oyster - had a good kick to it. Nothing special about the calamari, although it was good. I ordered the clam chowder and it was amazing. I highly recommend ordering this if you're looking for something light. There were chunks of clam and had pieces of ham in the dish. The ham added a sweet flavor to the soup. Cute place. Good service. Great food.
(4)Jennifer C.
Its very small inside and hard to get around. But I loved the decor. Oyster selection was robust and the ones we tried were delicious!! Also had a great wine selection. Was a little disappointed in the menu... Not much to choose from on there and very little variety (I get it. I get it. Its an oyster bar. But it was short and boring).
(4)Lillian C.
I had wanted to try this place for a while after seeing all the reviews. Came by on a Sat around 7? and had to walk around for a bit because there was a bit of a wait. The bar and outside is first come first serve so we were able to get a table outside. There were heat lamps, but it still got a little chilly towards the end. We started with a dozen of the mixed oysters. All of them were pretty fresh and on par with other places in Boston. For my main I had the squid ink pasta. The dish came and my first thought was... hm... the portion is pretty small for what you're paying for. I mean, it was good, but not amazing. It definitely wasn't worth the price tag associated, but I understand it's the ambiance and reputation of the restaurant. Bottom line, it's a nice place with good seafood, but you're definitely paying a premium for the food.
(3)Hanae K.
Lobster not worth the price. Bread isn't as buttery. Winner is the clam chowder. Thin soup, which supposedly is the "real kind" of chowda. Meat was chewy. Spicy puff croutons had a good kick. Great vibe, especially the outside. Bathroom is located downstairs, you have to go down the spiral staircase (which might get a bit scary if you're tipsy). I appreciate that they called me to see if I wanted to come earlier than the the time I rsvp'd for because spots opened up. If you're eating close to closing time, expect to be seated indoors. They closed off the patio by the time we showed up. Service was a bit slow.
(3)Dave T.
Pricey for what you get. Wife and I came up to Boston for a seafood filled weekend and were disappointed in what you get. Some of the oysters she got were so small they should never have been served. $29 for small minced up (not even chunks) lobster roll??? Clam chowder was really good I have to say though. Go to Neptune Oyster in the North End for a way better experience.
(2)Tiffany C.
Meh. This place was overrated. It's overpriced too for the taste. If you want really tasty and well leaned out oysters I recommend going to Island Creek Oyster Bar or Neptune Oyster. B&G Oyster doesn't compare. My boyfriend choked on a piece of shell in an oyster that they didn't clean out well. Also the oysters tasted a bit sandy. Fish wise, I thought the taste was just average. It wasn't cooked spectacularly. Go somewhere else for seafood and oysters. Even the interior decor is very mediocre. I would think for a restaurant at this price point they would've spent more on decorating. Reminds me of a older run down Johnny Rockets.
(3)Alvin J.
I came here thrice already ever since I landed in Boston, due to quality and also convenience. I enjoyed my experience here with the Brazine, Swordfish, Tuna, Salmon classic entrees. I also got a chance to experience their oysters, Penn very delicious, very balanced and paired well with white wine. I also have to note that Brazine was the highlight of my night. It will take some time to devour the Brazine as it contains tiny-pokey bones, balanced well witht their famous vinegar infused red-peppers honey dressing. I have delayed recall bias here, so I recommend trying all of them. I may swing by again later to try others on the menu like Salmon pepitto, etc. !!! A+++ Wait time is hell though if you come with a big party, you should reserve in advance.
(5)Cyndi H.
Best food I have had at a restaurant!! Recommend shorty stack and mousse! The best fried clams EVER!!!
(5)Mark W.
Quality of the food was outstanding, but portions are incredibly small. This may work for you but need to duly note.
(4)Luke S.
Came here for our wedding anniversary. We made our reservation through opentable and we didn't wait too long to get a table on a Saturday night. The oyster was fantastic. Nice selection with oysters from both coast. We ordered 2 dozens and stilThe hote items were not as impressive as the oysters. Fried calamari was too greasy. The squid ink meatball pasta was so-so and the portion size was not what you expected for a $30 pasta entree. Overall based on this visit I would recommend this place ONLY for the oysters. Would try the raw bar sampler next time.
(4)Addie M.
I like this place overall. My fiance came last night around ten or so. We did massachusetts and baltimore oysters, the croquettes, the squash and arugula salad and the mousse dessert. Everything tasted great. But all of our items were removed from the table without asking. My fiances knife was taken with the oysters/empty bread plates and we weren't finished with the croquettes. I needed to use the bathroom, and when I came back, the mousse was thrown away. Not cool, I shouldn't have paid for a dessert I didn't finish eating . I would've given five stars if the support staff asked to remove items before quickly doing so.
(3)Victoria S.
This is easily becoming my new favorite place in town. Full transparency I'm not a huge oyster fan but this place has the potential to make me one. Besides the obvious raw bar selection which changes daily, the fried oysters are amazing! I usually don't order fried but these are a must try. The snow pea salad was also delicious and I like that they will split it for 2. Honestly the branzino is the best thing they offer on the menu (I haven't tried the lobster roll). I've tried a few other things on the menu and you can't go wrong with any of the seafood options. Cute atmosphere and nice/attentive waitstaff....I highly recommend coming here if you're looking for a good seafood place in the south end. Definitely make reservations or come early for a bar seat.
(4)Yumi K.
The food and atmosphere at B&G is amazing! The restaurant itself has a relaxed, high class feel without loud conversations. The food here is to die for. I don't usually like oysters (Although I do love clams), but after eating here, I changed my mind for sure! For entrees, we got the swordfish and the lobster sandwich. Let me just say, the lobster sandwich was delicious and well worth the price! Even the fries that came with it was delicious! And of course, we can't overlook the oysters. They were very fresh and did not smell at all. Our server was very knowledgeable on the menu and recommended us wines to pair nicely with our entrees. In addition, she recommended us delicious oysters since some of the people in our party didn't like seafood (they sure changed their mind after B&G!)
(5)Teresa C.
The oysters are BOMB. Either the places we've ate at while were here are great for oysters or Boston knows it's oysters. I liked the onset most. We also had fried oysters which came with a well raved tartar sauce. Cod croquettes were crunchy on the outside and gooey on the inside mhmm. My snap pea salad was even liked by my veggie hater bf. A friend enjoyed the cauliflower soup which I would have had not I seen the fish and chips being brought out to someone else. Someone else had the monkfish which came with a huge sausage (thumbs up). The food, service and ambiance was awesome. It looked like most of the patrons were there for a business dinner. We were very casual lol. Our waiter was an upbeat guy. Gold star for you :D
(4)Adriana K.
I was kind of disappointed with this place. Good was expensive for what it was. Cod was good but missed something more substantial than just 2 pieces of fingerling potato and leeks in a beer broth. My husband order fried clams with fries. Nothing special that you cant find in any good bar in Boston. Wouldn't go back...
(3)Leyani L.
Very cute spot they got here in a nice neighborhood. I recommend everyone grabbing a seat at the patio if you can. The fried oysters were to die for. I recommend dipping the complementary bread into the sauce of the fried oysters, simply delicious!! The Parm Mac & Cheese with peas and bacon was delicious as well as all three desserts they have are to die for; & of course the Oysters: the most fresh, delicate, delicious and exquisite item in the menu. Very very good dinner I had here. Loved the place, décor, ambiance & service.
(5)Jen B.
Not only the best oysters & lobster rolls in the city (beats Neptune, hands down), but just my favorite little place in the city. Sit at the bar and order their house Gruner made just for them. The service from the amazing staff is just great and so friendly, and the food can't be beat. I love this little place. Always my 1st stop off the plane when I visit Boston.
(5)Jennifer C.
I came here based on the reputation of the chef, expecting high prices and hopefully, noteworthy food. My boyfriend and I got the squid ink pasta and the lobster roll. The squid ink pasta was a seasonal dish and cost about $26, the lobster roll is always on the menu and costs about $29. I had a bite of the lobster roll, it was good but not anything I would call spectacular. There are many other places in New England or just Boston that you could get just as good of a lobster roll for much less than that price. And if it hadn't been for the squid ink pasta, this restaurant would have received less stars, but the squid ink pasta does exist. I had it on friday night for dinner and here on sunday afternoon, post lunch, I am still thinking about it and how I must return before the pasta is no longer on the menu!! The pasta and squid was soooo soft you ALMOST couldn't discern between them, but you could which made it all the more better. It had a little hit of acidity that pushed the flavors over the top and a little crisp on top to give the texture a change here and there. Im still going through my schedule in my head to see when I could stop by even if it's for take out. The best pasta I have ever had and if you have a chance, ORDER IT.
(5)Christine N.
B&G oysters has a pretty good selection of oysters. I've been here before with my family and came again tonight in a larger group. We asked the waitress for "big and salty" oysters and we also had some cherrystone clams. The oysters, while some were not as big as we expected, they were salty and still delicious. The cherrystones were enormous and so good! I had the tuna tartare to start and it was delicious. While portions are a little on the small side, the quality of the tuna was phenomenal. I got to try the clam chowder and I didn't think it was anything special. I felt that it could be a little creamier and thicker. And perhaps just another dash or 2 of salt and pepper since it was a little under seasoned. I got the lobster roll as my main course and I just love lobster rolls. I felt this one could've used just a sprinkle more of seasoning but the sweetness of the lobster was fresh and delicious. Other people got the cod and halibut and salmon. Everyone enjoyed their meals except for the salmon. I tried it and it tasted... Off. The purée was a weird color and while it didn't taste awful, it wasn't particularly good either. Another person got the crab fra diavolo and that was alright. To be honest, the portions here are a bit small. This is the kind of place that you're playing quality over quantity. You end up paying a nice chunk of change and still feeling like you could eat some more.
(3)Kailene K.
I came here for lunch on a Sunday. I was first sad when I couldn't order a mimosa - they can serve champagne but not mimosas... Anywho my friend and I ordered the crab cake sandwich and the lobster roll. The lobster roll was so tiny, I couldn't believe it. And it didn't even taste good, if you're going to give me a couple bites for $30 it better be damn good. The crab cake sandwich was also terrible, you could not taste the crab, just the peppers and condiments that were plentiful on it. Needless to say for the price of this I will not be returning.
(2)Athena C.
The benefit of going on a business trip is you get to eat alone and don't feel awkward about it. Oh and it is covered by the company! Besides, it is easy to get a table when you are by yourself. So, I was here on a Thursday night and didn't need to wait to get a seat by the bar, which was perfect to witness the action of oyster hacking. I was here for one thing - Lobster BLT Roll. I honestly don't eat oysters but I would love to try all the top spots for lobster rolls. To start, I had their snow pea salad and I devoured the whole plate. It is very refreshing but the cheese on top makes it also filling. The lobster roll however, is definitely a heavy hitter. It comes with their pickle, coleslaw and a pile of nicely seasoned French Fries. The Lobster BLT roll uses a nice toasty bread with thick slices of bacon and mayo. Then, you would see a big pile of fresh lobster sit on top of the goodness. I was so full that I sacrificed half the bread so I can finish the lobster meat. It costs $30 a roll but it is well worth it. I would love to come back and try other dishes. Two women next to me know the people working here so they were eating everything on the menu, literally and they all look amazing.
(4)Steve H.
Great food! Great atmosphere! Great staff! We will definitely come back the next time we are in Boston!
(5)Laura A.
Very small place, it's best to get a reservation. We were lucky to grab 2 spots at the bar. I like the atmosphere. Friendly, knowledgable waitress. It is expensive, so beware. But food is amazing! Awesome lobstah roll and clam chowdah. Their coleslaw is magical... I swear there was Chinese 5 spice powder in there or something, but she assured me there wasn't anything odd in there. I KNOW there's a secret ingredient in there! Sure wish I could have the recipe. Fries were great, too. Of course, hubs got oysters, they were really good and fresh. I wanted dessert but didn't have room :( Love this place.
(5)Jane A.
The absolute best raw bar experience I've ever had. Also the best clam chowder. The only thing that would have improved the experience would have been if they had a full bar--they only serve beer/ wine.
(5)Marissa L.
I came here to try the lobster roll, which my friend said was her favorite one in Boston. My boyfriend and I arrived around 9 pm on a Saturday night and the wait was less than 30 minutes for the outdoor patio which was a nice surprise. The lobster roll was very plain - no mayo or celery. If you like that kind of thing (which I don't) you should try it. I also thought it was quite small given the high price. I also tried the oysters which were outstanding (though many were sold out by the time we ordered). The ricotta gnocchi appetizer was my favorite since it was light and fluffy, a texture I've never experienced with gnocchi. However, the waiter forgot to bring it to us and we had to ask for it so it didn't come until after the main course, which was annoying. The wine selection was awesome - I had a glass of the No. 9 Park Chardonnay which paired well with seafood. I'll definitely be back for the patio and the wine - just not the lobster roll.
(3)Jon S.
It has been about six months since I moved away from Boston so this review is more retrospective. Now that I live in a landlocked city with mediocre seafood, B&G is probably the Boston restaurant that I long for the most. I very much like the simple preparations of the fish and appropriately letting the quality of the product sing. My first visit to the restaurant, they had run out of a halibut dish that I was dying to try. Instead of me leaving disappointed, the server asked the prep team to prepare a fillet for me. That alone brought me back for return visits. I have only been here for dinner and most of the times, we would have to wait a little bit for our table to be ready. They would send us across the street to their sister restaurant The Butcher Shop where I always enjoyed the wine at the communal table. Boston has many fine seafood restaurants (including others with Oyster in their name), but this one is my favorite and will be the one I will dine at the next time I visit.
(5)Phillip H.
This place was insane. I wasn't even that hungry until I ate my first oyster. This speaks volume about the quality of oyster. I recommend it over Neptune Oyster and Island Creek Oyster as well. The food was great and came quickly. Nothing to complain about. One of the best mushroom dishes I had ever had was at this restaurant, try it to see for yourselves.
(5)Craig Lee B.
I stopped by for lunch on Mon 1/26/2015. What caught my eye and drew me in was the gate to the side-entrance on Waltham St., but I stayed for the excellent Shrimp Cocktail (containing JUMBO shrimp, which I shall no longer call an oxymoron!) and the very, very good Clam Chowder (New England style, natch, and containing plenty of nicely-chewy clam chunks and chopped onion goodness, whose centerpiece is a "very spicy" large bright-orange crouton that the server warned me about, but which wasn't too spicy at all -- just spicy enough). They also have a very impressive wine list (French, German, Italian, Greek), which were all, sadly, far above my pay grade. But as soon as I win the lottery, I know where I'm going to celebrate!
(5)Kate L.
Amazing service. Adorable patio. The best wine recommendation I have ever had based on what I described I wanted. AMAZING cucumber gazpacho healthy and rich and flavorful. Bathroom is hard to get to alllll the way down the windy stairs but would def go back!
(5)Mac D.
Best oysters this side of the country! Dont sleep on this quaint little spot.. fish and chips is perfect. Try the local libations.
(5)Rachel C.
When you're in Bahston, you gotta get the ohstah's! Okay, I swear, that's the only obnoxious Boston accent reference I'll make. Maybe... Right off the bat the place is adorable! I had to look around the place a couple times to realize just how tiny it is! Good thing we were here for lunch, because I doubt we'd slide right in like we did for dinner. I just loved the blue hues throughout. Definitely love the nautical theme while also being modern and sleek. First order of biznas was ordering some champs and oysters! Why is the sea world so cruel that you only give us such a tiny morsel in that shell? I just want to order them by the bushels. But the only way that's going to happen is with bushels of money, and that's not gonna happen anytime soon... I'm gonna be so sad when tomato season is over, but why not enjoy it while you can, right? And enjoy we did! The Heirloom Tomato Salad was a surprising mix of yellow watermelon, feta and pistachio. The combined flavors made for a unique and incredibly flavorful meal. I mean, the tomatoes themselves were a stellar mix, so you can't really go wrong! My eyes went right toward the Lobster Roll. There was no other option than to try that! I'd actually only had one once before and it was really tasty, if not a small glimpse of what might take place closer to the sea. The lobster was fresh as expected, but another important point is, you can't have the Lobster without a solid roll. And let me tell you, it was solid! I'll usually pick off the extra bread to my sandwich, but no way was I doing that with this buttery fresh bun! I was eating the ENTIRE thing! But it didn't end with the Lobster Roll. The fries, which could possibly end up being a throw away item when paired up against such a stellar main affair, were just as good as the roll. They were crispy and tasted freshly cut. Just the way I like them! If this is only a taste of what Boston has to offer, then I'm sold. Well, that and Ben Affleck. I'll take one of them too!
(4)Nisa E.
The food I had was good, but they need more vegetarian options.
(3)Mona B.
I saw all the great reviews for this place and figured I'd try it out. The staff is AMAZING!!!!! The food not so much.. First of all for $7 cup of chowder I literally got no more than 4 small spoon portion presented in an oversized bowl and it was actually the only delicious dish we ordered. We also had the "Moules Frites" not good at all, I love muscles and I force fed myself, saffron was not a good idea for this dish! - my friend ordered the "Spaghetti Nera Alla Chitarra" again no great flavor, it was actually pretty horrible!! Overall I was extremely disappointed, the food was so dissatisfying that $95 later I'm still hungry!! You should stick to Beehive or Giacomo's for food in the southend area!!!
(1)Adam G.
Went here for lunch after wedding in the city. I'm not a huge fish person even though I'm from Boston (I know). However if you are into fish this is the place. Good service and nice modern atmosphere. The fish and chips was excellent. One of the best I've had. Fries were really good as well. My friend enjoyed her lobster as well. Pricey but really solid place.
(4)Andy E.
Stopped here for a quick dinner and was lucky to find a seat. Great oyster bar.. I had the monk fish and sausage and it was great. The chef was good enough to tailor this dish to my Paleo needs and it was excellent.
(4)Amy M.
We had a lovely date night Friday night! The food was exquisite, and our server (who drives all the way from Providence to work there!) was accommodating and helpful--knowledgable and kind. Highlights: -the oysters. Duh. -the fried oysters. Each bite was perfect--a little tang from the tartar sauce,not too much of the fried coating, and a big, plump, juicy oyster that you could really taste and savor. -the squid ink pasta. We eat a decent amount of dishes prepared with squid ink, so the taste is familiar to us. Those dishes are often quite heavy in their earthiness; what set this apart was the pairing with lemon zest and fresh herbs which made the dish really bright and lighter somehow. I'm craving it right now. Yum. The only drawback that I can think of is the ambiance. I like how the casual vibe is maintained with the diner-like tables and low-key atmosphere. I even like the whole open kitchen thing, but it also meant that I had bright, industrial lights in my face during our dinner. Overall, the high end food and the quality, considerate service in this small, casual place is well worth the price tag.
(4)Jacqueline L.
weekday lunching while visit some friends in Boston. the weather was lovely so we sat outside on the back patio. ordered a few bites, bottle of rosé as well as the lobster roll. this Maine girl couldn't resist! everything was perfect; food, service, location. the only down side was parking. just street meters as well as residential, but you have to have a permit.
(5)Noah K.
Fantastic meal! Made a reservation on Opentable, but ended up at the bar as the place was still pretty full at 9:45 PM on a Saturday. Open kitchen was fun to watch and food exceeded expectations. Oyster prices were a bit high, but the rest of the meal was in line with expectation for the type of place. We had fancy sweet, cotuit, and well fleet oysters, halibut tartare with chorizo, blue cod, whole fried (and salty) Bronzino and two cold blue point summer ales. Food - 5 Service - 5 Prices - 4 Reservations - 3 (only late times, table wasn't ready, but not their fault, small restaurant)
(5)Barbara E.
Yelping from Logan Airport led us to this Boston gem. Great food. Perfecr ambiance. Friendly and helpful staff. We are definitely going back on another trip to Boston
(5)Kira K.
I had such high hopes for B&G, but was ultimately disappointed. Our party of two asked the server which oysters were the sweetest, and she directed us to the two most expensive oysters on the menu. They ended up being pretty briny, and were probably some of the worst oysters I've ever eaten. I opted for the lobster roll, because, when in Boston...but what a mistake! It was $29 for a plain ol' nothin'-to-write-home-about lobster roll. We also got an order of the calamari, fries, and two beers, and the total for lunch was $112. I'm positive there are other establishments that are far more worth your money. I would not recommend this place unless you're looking to burn a hole in your wallet.
(2)Ryan G.
This is honestly one of my favorite places in Boston. I truly believe it does not get much better than this. As seen by the hundreds of other reviews, this place is legit. In order to eat here, I usually make a reservation two weeks in advance, just as a heads up. Location: great. Perfectly acquainted in the south end, near many other restaurants and bars. Quaint little area with lots of brownstones with a classic feel of Boston. The food is just indescribable. It is so fresh and tasty, basically the only two things you need when getting seafood. I do highly recommend the fried oysters (for people like me who don't like real oysters) and the cliché lobster roll, which I believe is new here but the lobster roll is a BLT lobster roll :O. Overall, the reviews usually never lie, especially with the 600 reviews already written. I'm merely writing this review so I can put it on my yelp lists. If you haven't tried this place...YOU MUST GO. If you have, YOU MUST GO BACK!
(5)Ken B.
Excellent oyster bar and restaurant! They have oysters from at least 12 different locales in New England. Pick and choose as you like. We had an array of appetizers, the monkfish, the blue cod and the swordfish. All were cooked to perfection and served with amazing sides (ie deconstructed ratatouille, pickled fennel, green goddess, etc). Great atmosphere, great food and great service! Ask for Juan. Thanks Juan!!!
(5)Anthony S.
Visited here with my girlfriend while in Boston for work. I had been here previously and the lobster roll was $24. Knowing this we each order a lobster roll and when we get our bill we are shocked to find that they cost over $44 a piece!!! They were delicious but never in my life had I had to pay that much for a lobster roll. The waitress blamed it on the current market price but we went to Yankee lobster and island creek for around $22 per lobster roll the same weekend. I am very disappointed in the waitress trying to take advantage of those clearly from out of town. I will not be back and will spend my money elsewhere in the future.
(1)Mary C.
Oysters on the half shell were great. Our server was great too and his suggestions for which oysters to order were appreciated. The fried clams were small and too salty. The fried calamari had no tentacles. I loved the atmosphere and would return for the oysters.
(3)Katie G.
Great lobster roll but weird setting. The waiters were all hiding in the corner stuffing their face with food which was weird. And the people at the bar weren't that friendly. Good food but not a 5 star.
(4)Too Much S.
Rather good service, awesome oysters, and very good lobster roll. Why only 4 stars? I felt rather rushed. Definitely worth a visit though.
(4)Nina Y.
Last meal in Boston before heading home. I decided to look up the best place for clam chowder and many people and magazines had suggested B&G Oysters. I decided that it would be my last meal as a great meal. First off, the place is great. Really a nice fancy restaurant, but since I went for a lunch on a rainy day, there were almost no one there. I definitely ordered the clam chowder and some of the shrimp fritters. The clam chowder was memorable and really good. I think my only fault with it was the paprika oyster crackers. I think it was too spicy for the dish. Other than that, was a good bowl of clam chowder. The shrimp fritters were good, but not AMAZING. Fried balls are great, but it wasn't amazing. Overall, great clam chowder and a great last meal in Boston.
(4)Lucy E.
Great seafood, amazing out door seating. This is the perfect place to go on a nice evening in the summer and early fall. The out door seating is fabulous and really makes for an oasis in Boston. I have yet to have a bad dish here, but no matter what you get, start with the oysters!
(4)Will S.
The entrance was actually not the one below the sign on the big street. It was somewhat hidden in the side street and you have to go down few steps of stairs. Sat at the bar table. When you step in, you can see the shelled oyster sitting on the ice. Very casual environment. The waiter we dealt with was nice, and gave us plenty of time to settle in and decide. Oyster was good. Food ok. On the pricey end. Liked their location with lots of shops and nearby mall in the neighborhood.
(3)Scott S.
My son (14) and I had dinner here in mid-July. I did my Yelp homework and made a reservation before leaving California. During our brief stay in Boston, I was there for a conference, I wanted to hit some of the better seafood places. We were sating at the Pru at the Sheraton and walked over. It was nice to get to a neighborhood away from the chains. B&G is in the semi-basement of what appears to be a residential building. It's slightly below street level and finding the entrance (it's in back) was a challenge for us first timers. We were greeted, and seated, immediately in the corner booth to the right. We had a good view of the small and busy kitchen. It was fun to watch the constant shucking of shellfish. The ceiling is low so it feels intimate and cozy albeit loud. I'm from the San Francisco bay area and we pride ourselves on our seafood and especially our west coast oysters. They and an oysters of the day list so I asked the server, Lexi, to recommend a few that were more of the mineral type and not the creamy type. She suggested the Mayflower point and Thatch Island both from Mass. i got two of each as they were $3.15 each. They were both very good. For main courses, again I wanted to stay local, so we had the black bass and the halibut. Both dishes were artfully presented with thoughtful touches of vegetables and sauce. My halibut had a beautiful crust and came with eggplant, zucchini, corn and roasted red onion with a smear of rustic tomato sauce (see my photo). There were little anchovies (which I like) on the eggplant which I found to be a little strong for such a delicate dish. Everybody really seems to be enjoying themselves and B&G and you can see why. I'd like to have one in my neighborhood.
(4)Wilma O.
My girl friends and I came here last night for a much needed catch-up session, and Restaurant Week!! We had all been curious about this place and needed to try it. Overall, we were mostly impressed! I had not yet had a positive Restaurant Week experience in Boston - usually places skimped on their dishes or used sub-par ingredients, but here I really felt that B&G was trying to showcase their talent. - Crab cake appetizer - Delicious (and this is coming from a Marylander - the home of crab cakes)! The sauce complemented it well. The crab meat fibers were very fine and delicate, and you could tell it wasn't mixed with a lot of filler. I would have liked a slightly stronger tasting crab though. - Salmon tartare appetizer - my friend got this, and seemed to really enjoy it! It looked good. - Scallops entree - I was thoroughly impressed. Usually restaurants skimp on the size of their scallop dishes, but this one was incredibly satisfying. The green sauce didn't overwhelm but nicely complemented the fresh scallops, and it all cutely looked almost like a video game stage (in the words of my friend). - Clam stew - One of my friends got this, and she was very happy with it. It's not very soupy -- it has more of a focus on the clams, and has huge slabs of pork belly on it! - Pasta dish (orenchietti or something like that) - My other friend got this and didn't enjoy it much -- she said it was heavy yet bland. I tried some of her sauce though and thought it had a really nice, intriguing flavor (almost like pillow mints?). I think I would have liked this dish. - Coconut cream pie - Delicious!! Not too overwhelming, and it's a cute tart with a edible crust that tastes almost like gingerbread - Vanilla cake - While none of us had this, it looked big and delicious -- we were staring at our neighbors' all meal! Overall, I was very impressed! Boston has many expensive, modern American, gourmet restaurants and it's hard to set yourself apart from the pack. B&G impressed me with their restaurant week menu and I can wait to try actual oysters here next time!
(5)Loc V.
Walked in without a Rez based on a local colleagues recommendation. Bar seat for 1 so thankfully I was able to sit at 8:30pm (get a reservation). The hype here was worthy. Massachusetts oysters were amazing (5 different varieties). Clam Chowder was outstanding, fresh and the soup was not thick like most boston chowders (no corn starch here). Service, vibe and space just worked really well. Definitely recommend especially if you had one night for great boston seafood. Look forward to coming back to try the lobster roll, fried Ipswich clams and bouillabaisse. So much more to try - great menu. I will be a new out-of-town regular.
(5)Eva Y.
Great oysters, fried clams, and lobster rolls.... Mediocre fish entrees...... BUTTTTT, hands down the BEST CLAM CHOWDER in town!
(4)Michelle T.
Hit up B&G for a $20 restaurant week lunch and was thoroughly impressed with my meal, as well as the excellent service. I left feeling my meal was no only worth it, but the restaurant was somewhere I'd return again outside of restaurant week. I started off with the mussel appetizer, which was actually a huge bowl of juicy, fresh, sweet, plump mussels bathed in a buttery but light sauce. Served with a side of crusty grilled bread, perfect for dipping in sauce. I went for the grilled scallops for my entrée and absolutely loved it. The scallops themselves were so sweet and plump, grilled to perfection so there was a slight char on the outside, but tender on the inside. The grilled zucchini's beneath them were well-seasoned, though a tad on the greasy side. Finally, the peach pana cotta. Though I can't say I am a big fan of pana cotta as a dessert by itself, the one at B&G was actually quite good. It was topped with fresh sweet peaches and a buttery crumble. We left feeling full, satisfied, and happy with our meals.
(4)Char Y.
we came with a reservation and were seated immediately. we ordered lobster roll - so small! soft shell crab sandwich the food was just ok. the seafood is fresh, but the portions tiny for what you pay for. this is what i expect in chicago, not boston.
(2)Jeff P.
It's a relatively small place. Sat at the bar area and got the fried clams. SO good. They also have a nice selection of oysters which were good. Seeing how all the food is prepared is pretty neat too. Lobster rolls looked pretty good as well. Definitely will go again.
(4)Joey C.
We had a trip to Boston for a show and i had to try its famous lobster roll. Yelped it and found B & G oysters. It was pretty packed when i call but luckily they still have space for the 4 of us. We stayed at the bar and you can see all the cooking made infront of you. We started with the local oysters and then we tried the monk fish, squid ink pasta, and ofcourse the Lobster Roll. I will definitely go back... Yummy
(5)Ashley S.
Wonderful! Amazing lobster rolls and fries. Hillary is a fabulous waitress, she's friendly & knowledgable.
(5)Helen K.
Had dinner recently with the family at B & G Oyster. Oh how I wish we lived in Boston. A good friend and a Bostonian also agreed with our choice when discussing our plans. Started with the croquettes which were crispy outside soft and flavorful inside. Had the entire list (12!) of oysters available that day. I've decided I prefer the oysters from PEI (Prince Edward Island). My son had the seared Ahi topped with fingerling potato chips which I thought were really cute. Hubby had halibut. The fish was cooked perfectly and seasoned well. He didn't care for the sweet broth the fish was sitting atop of however. As another reviewer mentioned, this is a seafood restaurant. No meat dishes for those with a seafood aversion.,I was totally happy with the choice. Will have to look at the menu choices more carefully next time to insure family happiness.
(5)San W.
Went here last night with b. for an impromptu dinner because our planned dinner at Toro totally failed (they were closed due to a private event...I should have known things were going to go horribly wrong after getting totally dissed by the bus driver, who made me run late because he did not bother to stop for me despite my waving frantically at him). Anyways, b. had been wanting to check this place out and luckily, it was close by. We got there around 6ish and were able to grab two seats at the bar without a wait. And the breakdown goes like this: Drinks Don't remember the names but b. ordered the Riesling, which was slightly too sweet and not as crisp as b. would have liked, while I got the Muscat Reserve, which was slightly crisp but not overly dry. Oysters At our server's recommendation, b. ordered a half dozen of the Chathams (MA) and a half dozen of the Pickering Passes (WA). In comparison, we both liked the Chathams, which were fairly large in size, not too creamy, and quite briny, much better than the Pickerings, which were super small (puny!), not creamy at all, and very briny with an odd, fishy aftertaste. Fried Point Judith Calamari (w/ spicy aioli) The calamari itself was fairly large and somewhat chewy. We were not fans of the fried exterior, which was rather bland and oily. The spicy aioli dip though was nice and creamy with a kick. Something Something Swordfish (can't remember the official description and it's not on their website menu but it came w/ handmade gnocchi, sautéed chopped beets(?), and beet jus...yes, that is "zzhoos" - what a fun word to say!) The swordfish had a wonderful pan seared crust that was loaded with flavor from the spice rub. The fish itself was moist and not overcooked, which was refreshing to find since swordfish is so easily overdone. It came with eight pieces of gnocchi, which we found to be a little too soft like they had been boiled for too long. The beet jus added a nice sweetness to the dish overall; b. wished there had been more of it. Plating was simple and elegant. Squid Ink Spaghettia Alla Chitarra (w/ charred octopus, spicy tomato sauce, & black olive) The squid ink noodles were done to the right consistency, not too chewy and not too soft. The best part was the octopus though - definitely some of the best octopus we have had. The pieces were so tender, not at all tough and chewy like we usually anticipate octopus to be. When we asked our server how it was prepared, the chef said that they braised the octopus first before charring it. The sauce was a bit too tomato-ey for me, and somewhat salty towards the end of the dish, but it did have a nice kick to it. All in all, B&G saved our evening from being ruined by Toro's snub, service was prompt and courteous, and we enjoyed our wine and dinner while playing kneesie under the countertop as it was quite cozy at the bar.
(4)Gary L.
-Sugar snap pea salad: I'm not a fan of salad but this was great. Vinaigrette wasn't overpowering and you got a bit of cheese and onions in every bite. -Fried calamari: Not greasy, and the aioli is a great complement. Not very spicy aioli, though. -Lobste
(5)Graham H.
Goods oysters, calamari and chowder. Couple good beers on draft. Portions were small and B&G is pricey. Better idea than dinner at B&G- start at Butcher Shop across the street for Charcuterie and then a light dinner at B&G.
(4)Pia F.
Last Saturday (4/25/15) my husband and I decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner in the south end. It was our first night out since having our new baby and we had enjoyed b and g before so we chose it again. We had a terrible experience at the door with a very rude and condescending host. I had lived in the south end for 5 years, so I know we will have to wait on a Saturday night anywhere without reservation, so we were prepared to wait. When asking for a table we had a 3+ hour wait, then we asked about the bar and its first come first serve. We actually prefer the bar so we asked how many people were ahead and we were told 10 and the host said it would be a 4 hour wait. We were a little confused why it would be longer so we hesitated before giving an answer and he actually turns around and says to us "obviously you're not getting this" and repeated the wait times to us again slower. I couldn't believe my ears. If this is how b and g plans on treating their patrons now we will think twice before ever going again or recommending to our friends. We ended up going to the restaurant next door and had a great experience.
(1)Greg P.
Just keeps getting BETTER!! B&G Oysters is and has been in our Boston Top 3 since we first dined here. We celebrate special occasions (Christmas, New Years, birthdays) at B&G because the food, ambiance, and service never disappoint. I even had my pre-wedding brunch at B&G. Located in the South End, B&G offers valet parking. While cozy, you have your servers attention the whole time. The atmosphere is fun and laid back but the food it as good as the top (and much stuffier) South End destinations. My wife and I celebrated an early Christmas dinner last night and continue to be amazed by B&G and Barbara Lynch's creativity. To start, we had shrimp cocktail and a variety of winter oysters (including Gigamoto, Royal Miyagi, Canada Cup). The raw bar is always impeccably prepared. The shrimp are amazing: huge, sweet, and incredibly fresh. For our main courses, we had the blue cod with walnut puree and cous cous arancini and the branzini with fennel and artichoke confit. The blue cod was savory and light while the arancini popped with flavor. The branzini was seasoned with za-tar spices and was fresh and also quite light and delicious. In the past we have loved the lobster roll and lobster BLT (both marquee entrees on the B&G menu). This night, we want to try something different. All I can say is WOW. Dessert took us by surprise! My wife loves carrot cake but I am not a huge fan. However, we decided to split the carrot cake. It arrived baked into a good sized canning jar, topped with buttery creamy frosting and walnut and graham cookie crumbles. It looked amazing and I was already sold just by the aesthetic. However, once I tasted it, it was all over. I had to continuously remind myself to slow down because the spice flavor and moistness were perfect. My wife, a carrot cake expert, said it was the best carrot cake she had ever had. I totally agreed. B&G is a special restaurant. It's a place for seafood lovers who want clean flavors and dishes in which the fruits of the sea are given a chance to shine. You will not find heavy sauces or spices here. The seafood is king. And based on every experience we have ever had at B&G, so is the customer!!
(5)Olivia W.
Well, I didn't understand why this place seems to be so popular. I really wish I would love it more since I am a big oyster lover and just moved to Southend neighborhood. It would be perfect if we have a good oyster bar in a walking distance. Unfortunately I wasn't impressed with this place. The oysters priced $2.5 and up. We ordered 2 dozen, with some cheaper ones and some fancy ones. Oysters are pretty small in general, some of them are pretty sad in size--not the meaty and sweet kind of oysters I was expecting. That's a huge disappointment. We also ordered a fried shrimp appetizer upon the waitress's recommendation but did not taste/find any shrimp meat in it. Wine was ok though. I may try this place one more time...if anything changes I will update my review.
(2)Jessica H.
Great oysters, lobster roll is top notch. Only downside is - only beer and wine.
(4)Tara T.
Honestly, I'm surprised this place has such great reviews. It was pretty so-so. We got there around 8 on a Saturday night and we managed to get a table in the corner for 3. We ordered some cherrystone clams, clam chowder, and three mains. The clams were huge, but one of them was a really weird color. The waitress noticed us commenting on it but didn't offer to change it. The mains came, and they were pretty small portions and under seasoned. I would even go as far to say, bland. We had the crab diavolo, cod, and sea bass. Definitely not worth the price (~$28 each). The experience overall was pretty mediocre. Don't think I'll ever be going back though. I can get much better seafood at Atlantic Fish or Row 34 for the same price.
(3)Chris W.
We chose B&G based on reviews and looked forward to a nice birthday dinner for my wife. We were so disappointed in the slow and indifferent service. We had to wait for our drinks, wait for refills, and were left waiting for someone to take our entree order so long that we just asked a busser for our check. Our table was right next to the host station, we had discussed the choices of entrees with him and he seemed unconcerned with our early departure. They weren't busy. It was just lousy service. We took our business elsewhere and had a lovely time. The Oysters were killer good I have to admit. We were disappointed to leave but when I sit with an empty glass for over ten minutes... I get impatient I guess.
(2)Guy T.
A delightfull business diner Appetizer of raw bar fried oysters and calamari excellent Blue Cod was to die for Will return in the very near future
(5)Alex T.
This past visit was my first visit to B&G Oysters, and I must say, I will definitely be back. Although somewhat pricey, the quality of the food is well worth it. My friend and I had a dozen oysters and the bouillabaise. Oysters were fresh and the bouillabaise was delicious, albeit somewhat different in preparation than at most other restaurants I've been. As far as service, the the server was able to give a brief but detailed profile of each oyster for making an informed order, and he checked in frequently to make sure my friend's and my requests were met. Ambience and decor were simple and appropriate. As for the noise, it was very quiet, but I imagine that night was an anomaly due to the Superbowl game that was going on concurrently. All-in-all, my friend and I had a great dining experience at B&G Oysters.
(5)Rebecca K.
Headed there after a particularly bad work day yesterday. I was craving oysters and a glass of wine. They're one of the few places in New England that consistently carries West Coast oysters, which have a different texture and flavor than East Coast so I try to order them when I can. Sat at the bar and chatted with the bartender about the days oysters. I ordered 6 based on her recommendations and they were perfect. Beautifully shucked, which is important! I don't want to wrestle with extracting the oyster from the shell; they should arrive completely shucked so you can simply slurp them out of the shell. A glass of white wine and their chowder completed my meal. Their chowder is one of my favorites, and includes bacon lardons, a bounty of fresh clams, perfectly cooked potatoes and is not too heavy or creamy. Note: I often go to B & G Oysters alone - I was alone last night - and it's a marvelous place to dine by yourself. Sit at the bar, which overlooks the kitchen and you'll see all the action. I'm always treated well and fell completely comfortable as a solo diner.
(4)Tiffany W.
Tucked away in a residential corner, B&G is positioned below street level so you'll have to walk down the steps to get to the front door. Upon entering, you'll have either two thoughts: 1) wow, it's so cozy! or 2) wow, it's so small and crowded. For me, it was the latter. I like having space in between me and other random patrons, but luckily my boyfriend and I came to dine at 3pm on a Saturday afternoon so the restaurant was fairly empty. Don't fret too much, though, because they do have a patio deck which is a lot bigger and can easily accomodate a larger group. For being part of Barbara Lynch's gruppo, the restaurant was far more casual than I expected but it did allow for a more comfortable dining experience. The staff and service was quite excellent, as was the food. I thoroughly enjoyed everything I had to eat, and I definitely recommend it all. First were the oysters. Prices are definitely steep, but every penny was worth it. We tried several different oysters, but a few of my favorites are as followed: 1. Gigamoto - Yes, these babies are *extremely* tiny compared to other oysters and they're also priced a little higher BUT they were absolutely fantastic. It was a little sweet at first, almost like candy, but then the saltiness kicks in, and that mix of sweet and salty made for a superb finish. 2. Peconic Bay - Another oyster with that sweet at first but then a little salty at the end, but the big difference is that there isn't a mix and the different taste is quite distinct. 3. Salish Sea - A coppery finish. Gotta have those! 4. Rocky Shore - I also tried these at Atlantic Fish Co. but somehow, I found that the ones at B&G tasted much better. Aside from the oysters, the bf and I also shared: 5. Clam Chowder - HOLY CLAMS. There was so much and they were so good! The chili powdered piece of bread accompanying the chowder was a nice touch, but what differentiates B&G's clam chowder from others is the soup... er, chowder. Okay, it was practically soup. Chowder is typically thick and creamy, but this clam chowder was definitely all broth. At first, it was a small let-down but I enjoyed the soup a lot. But like I said before, the real treat is the clams. 6. Fried Oysters - Delicately fried and atop a row of salt-like rocks (maybe they were salt rocks?), each oyster sat back on its half shell in a bed of this amazingly delicious sauce that just makes the fried oyster melt in your mouth. Ohhh, it was heaven.
(4)john d.
Nice place, interesting food, nice staff. One gripe: The place is tiny. Came in with someone (just the two of us) and they either wanted us to sit at the "teeny tiny table for two" wedged into the corner area....or sit at the bar (which is not a fun thing to do on a date i.e...facing away from each other.) The bar had too many seats all right up against each other. The larger table were all open....but they were "reserved for parties of 3 or more". I understand managing a small inventory of tables is difficult....and you don't want two people using the larger tables when a party of 3 or 4 are waiting...but I think you should be forewarned about the size of the place....and is not hospitable to parties of 2. Any questions private message me.
(3)Thomas Y.
I was visiting Boston from NYC for PAX East. This place came highly recommended by my cousin, who went to school in the area, so we decided to give it a try. When you arrive, you walk down a stairwell into the small, cozy, and well designed restaurant in the lower area. I believe in the summer there is outdoor seating as well. First of all, I didn't realize that there were so many different types of oysters! We ordered a dozen and a half of various oysters to share, and I ordered a bowl of clam chowder and a lobster roll. The clam chowder was very flavorful, rich, and complex in flavor. It's definitely the best clam chowder I've ever had. The clam meat was plentiful and juicy. The oysters came out on a bed of ice with cocktail sauce, horseradish, and lemon. They were extremely fresh and I could definitely taste the subtle differences in the oysters. Best oysters I've ever had in my life! The lobster roll had a very generous amount of juicy, succulent lobster, lightly seasoned on a slightly sweet bun. It was served with crispy french fries with ketchup and a pile of juicy pickle slices. The service was great! Very friendly and effective. Definitely make reservations if you want to try this place. +2 stars for oysters +1 star for clam chowder +1 star for lobster roll +1 star for service
(5)Maggie K.
I decided to try this place after hearing so much about it. My experience was mediocre at best. The service was lacking; I had to ask for drinks myself, and to order the entrees and the server seemed genuinely uninterested. We got some oysters on the shell, fried oysters, the crab fra diabolo, and the lobster roll. 1. Raw oysters. The oysters were exquisite! They smelled like the sea and had incredibly fresh flavor. I probably should have stuck to the raw oysters; they are the only thing I would go back for, 2. Fried oysters. They were very light and perfectly fried. The sauce complemented them beautifully. 3. The crab fra diabolo. This dish was disappointing. The crab itself was incredibly flavorful and delicate. The fresh cavatelli (pasta) destroyed the dish because it was very undercooked. I love my pasta al dente but that was borderline raw. The sauce was really nice, tomatoey, and with a spicy kick. Overall, the dish had the potential to be amazing if the pasta was cooked properly. 4. The lobster roll. It was tasty, but for the $30 price tag I was nothing outside the ordinary. It was just a good lobster roll. Nothing more, nothing less. 5. Desserts. We ordered the banana parfait and the Black Forest cake. The parfait was yummy although served in a tall glass and difficult to eat. The Black Forest cake was dry and not that chocolatey. The whipped cream was very heavy but the cherry sauce had a great balance of sweetness and tartness. Overall, this restaurant is not worth the $$$. If you want a raw oyster dinner though it's perfect! Just stick to that!
(3)Scott J.
We dined here for lunch on a Saturday afternoon (8/17/13) without reservations. It was an easy walk from our Back Bay hotel (Lenox Hotel) and we arrived right at noon and were the first ones seated, so we were fortunate to grab a great seat in their outdoor patio section (which quickly filled up). The service was SPECTACULAR. Our waitress (blonde hair, glasses, VERY friendly and knowledgeable) provided top notch service. She was clearly an expert on the wine list, gave us an outstanding suggestion (a Riesling of all things) and did let us try a quick sample. She made sure our meal was paced perfectly, our glasses remained full, we were satisfied with each selection all while being in the background to allow us a casually romantic experience. We started with oysters (at an oyster place after all) and noticed that there were 6 varieties from Massachusetts so we went with 2 of each for a perfect hometown dozen. They arrived prepared perfectly, with a little card notating what we had selected and how they were laid out (in a clockwise spiral fashion). We like to keep track of which ones we like so this was a nice little touch. They were all delicious and we did note a couple favorites. Our main course was the lobster roll. We had done a quick search for 'best lobster roll in boston' prior to selecting this establishment and upon seeing the photo of the roll and realizing that it was not weighted down with tons of mayo or other slaws, we knew it was what we wanted to try. Well...let's say it delivered on all levels!!! What a perfect blend of nicely cooked chunks of lobster in a buttered hot dog bun with just a touch of seasoning on top. It may sound a bit plain but wow it works SO well...the lobster taste dominates every bite and leaves you wanting more. (It was 3 days ago and I'm craving another one). Heck, the fries were so perfectly prepared with a touch of parsley and cooked just right. We could not pass up the unique panna cotta dessert that was covered with salty caramel and bits of popcorn...kind of like eating cracker jacks mixed with awesome caramel and that light panna cotta goodness. Yes it's a bit pricey but sometimes you get what you pay for. I'd rather pay a few bucks more for a lobster roll and oysters and have them in such a perfectly serviced environment. Was a GREAT way to experience a fantastic meal in a totally non-pretentious environment where you got to feel a bit like a local. B&G is a must do in my opinion and will be the first place I dine when I return to Boston someday. Side note: They are an Open Table restaurant and instantly knew about redeeming the 'travelers check' style rewards you get for cashing out points.
(5)Siddharth P.
Genuinely fresh tasting seafood. Very fine dining! A little too pricey for me. Had a great time though. Sampled fresh caught oysters off of different parts of the north american coastlines, tried their award winning clam chowder(amazing!), and also had the maine lobster roll(probably the best I've had). All in all, a great experience not to be missed, if someone else is paying, which in my case was me :(
(4)Emily W.
The food, atmosphere, and service at B&G are all outstanding. I've lived in the South End for several years, and there is no shortage of great places to eat, but B&G still stands out. The raw bar is wonderful. Our server made terrific recommendations according to our tastes. Don't miss the crabmeat cocktail; it's exceptional. So were the monkfish and swordfish entrees. Honestly, you can't go wrong here. If you walk in and there aren't any tables available, put your name in and take a walk around the neighborhood. It's worth the wait.
(5)Rob B.
You just can't have too many lobster rolls in a weekend in Boston. I had thought my favorite was to be found at Neptune's Oyster and nothing here to disparage that marvelous entree but the hot summer day made the B & G lobster roll perfect! This lobster roll is not made with mayo but a herb-ed vinaigrette that made the flavor of the seafood shine! Fries were equally good and at 2:30pm there was plenty of room at the bar. I'll be back!
(5)Dan G.
B&G Oysters has been my hangout in Boston for several years now. The quality of the food and friendliness of the staff is what brings me here. The prices are high...as is everything else in Boston it seems...but you can't go wrong. The place is cozy and, because of the limited seating, can get a little loud. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon before the crowds arrive.
(4)Cosmo X.
Nice selection of oysters,, cozy place, parking is tough but worth a special occasion visit.
(4)Landon W.
Wow, this place! We were visiting from out of town and stopped here on the recommendation of a friend who lives in Boston. As a huge fan of oysters and of Boston cuisine, I had really high hopes for this place. And it delivered! The restaurant has an indoor dinging area as well as a nice patio outside. My understanding is that the patio is first come, first served. If you plan to sit inside, you would be wise to make a reservation because the tables are limited. We had an awesome table that looked out to the street. Very cool atmosphere here. There is also the U-shaped bar where folks can sit and watch the cooks prepare the food. You will find beer and wine only here. They had a decent beer selection although I was a bit surprised that there weren't more options. Not a problem, though! The food is what we came for and by god the food is what we loved. We were given a sheet listing all of the different varieties of oysters available, from Washington to Rhode Island to Massachusetts. We picked a variety of them, and I must say the local ones were my favorites! Be prepared to drop a fair amount of cash on that deliciousness as the oysters run from $2-4 each. Bottom line, best oysters I've had! We'll be back!
(5)Judy L.
Everything tasted great! Oysters - fresh, delicious. Can't go wrong with them. Fried oysters appetizer - delicious as well. Very different from the fresh ones. I'd recommend getting them! Hake entree - the fish was so soft and tasty! It was a "melt-in-your-mouth" kind of dish. Yum. Lobster roll - very refreshing. I may like this even more than the lobster roll at Neptune's. Lobster BLT - very flavorful. I preferred the lobster roll to the BLT because the BLT was dripping with buttery sauce. A bit too unhealthy for me, but very scrumptious. Excellent service.
(5)Adam B.
The current "market price" of the BLT w/ Lobster is $39. To me, that's way too high. I ordered two for take-out and when they handed me the receipt my knees buckled. I fully admit it's my fault for not asking the market price when I called in our order, but I'm posting this so no one else makes the same mistake.
(2)Christine H.
Not sure how I feel about the rave reviews about B&G. I ordered 4 different oysters which were all very fresh but they were all really salty. They were not shucked properly so it was hard to slurp them out of the shell and their were bits of shell left. Service was eh.. It was empty in there (about 7 other diners in the middle of the day) and they still managed to make me feel I was bothering them. I would rather splurge at Neptune Oyster which had a bigger variety of oysters and better service.
(3)Sarah S.
the only thing greater than the food was Hilary, our waitress. She was so friendly and down to earth, had great recommendations for a rose. We'll definitely be back the next time we're in town.
(5)Cath M.
Came here for lunch with two of my coworkers... scorching Boston weather! I ordered the steamed mussels and it was a huge portion... which I ate all myself. It was tasty but a tad bit spicy... definitely cleared my congested nose. Friendly staff... Definitely worth checking out!
(4)Liana K.
I'm sad to report my recent visit was a disappointment. Maybe it was because it was cold and restaurant week but things were off. We came in at 2:15 on a Sunday for lunch. We got the Chef's oysters for 10 bucks and then... well the waitress kinda forgot about us. Suddenly 35 minutes later we get the scallops with our appetizer of Clam Chowder never arrived. I mention it to the girl who brought it over (different from our waitress) who ran back with the scallops without another word or apology. We wait another 10 minutes and finally clam chowder comes out with overcooked inedible clams. Our waitress then apologize but the whole interaction was awkward. The base of the soup was delicious and it really was a shame the clams tasted like shoe rubber. Neither my boyfriend nor I ate one and no comment was made. The scallops were perfect and delicious thus bringing this rating for 1 to a 3. The dessert, chocolate moose and pound cake were each great and I have no complaints. So I'll be returning, I still love you B&G, the food was great for the most part and it was a shame the clam chowder ruined the meal because hours later I still taste the icky clams.
(3)Barbara B.
A delightful neighborhood spot with a backyard patio. We selected this place being in the mood for oysters and we were pleased with the number of offerings - Mass, PEI, Rhode Island originations. We selected several appetizers - the smoked shrimp beignets, cannelloni filled with whipped butternut squash and crabmeat (very well done, included diced squash as well as whipped, which created a great textural contrast) and the arugula salad. All were delightful - highly recommend the cannelloni. Service was great, the staff worked to find indoor seating when it started to sprinkle. They were very informed on the oysters, and how each menu selection was prepared. Very satisfying experience.
(4)Jennie C.
I'm still kicking myself for not getting a dozen oysters while I was here... Flew into Boston early because it's restaurant week, and this was my first stop. Tiny place, no wonder they said they were all booked when I tried to make reservations. Thankfully there was a spot at the bar....right by the oysters...and I drooled the whole time they were shucking oysters, but I thought I must control myself because I got another big meal coming up for dinner. Tried the fluke crudo, scallops and pound cake from the RW menu. The fluke was ok, I thought the fish was a bit warm and bland, but maybe my palate was a bit dull from the early flight. The scallops, on the other hand, were out of this world. First of all, I got 3 giant scallops! That plate in itself is worth the price of the entire meal. They were prefectly caramelized (though strangely only on 1 side), and just a weebit translucent on the inside. So sweet and juicy. Also loved the texture of the farro it was paired with. Dessert, unfortunately, was a letdown. The pound cake was so dry and hard I worried I was gonna crack the plate when I cut into it. If I ever visit Boston again, I'm so trying the oysters!
(4)Brad M.
AWESOME place.. Wife and I stopped in for their famous lobster role. We were not disappointed! It's not cheap but the value is there for what you get. We also decided to get one each of the daily special oysters. They ranged from local east coast to west coast. Highly recommend this place.
(4)dan w.
This is mainly an oyster place- and the oysters are fresh and briny. Also excellent are the french fries and the chowder. The wine list really complements the oysters. It is pretty much down hill from there. The main courses are mediocre and overpriced and the coffee (no espresso or cappuccino) could come from a diner.
(3)Christa S.
Amazing oyster selection, cool atmosphere, great entrees. This place does not disappoint! I like sitting at the bar and eating there and watching them work.
(5)Rob G.
Visited for dinner, for the first time, on Friday night. Did not disappoint! B & G is an oyster lovers paradise, with a dozen different oyster varieties plus clams and other fresh, local and international seafood offerings. We enjoyed a massive pile of oysters on the half she'll, squid ink and grilled calamari pasta, and a monkfish entree special. Everything was fresh, tasty and expertly prepared. The restaurant is noisy and has an upbeat, energetic vibe, so if you're looking for a quiet, romantic meal, this is not the right spot. But if you enjoy the buzz of a busy, vibrant atmosphere, than you'll love it! Beware: there is no bar, so if you don't have a reservation or arrive early, there isn't really anyplace to wait. We were early and they sent us across the street to Barbara Lynch's other South End place, the Butcher Shop. Ten mins later, they called to say our table was ready... Right on time. The staff was friendly and efficient, and our server informative, fun and professional. It's not an inexpensive restaurant, though given the seafood (much of which was raw) I wouldn't expect or want to find a bargain. For entertaining a guest or to satisfy a seafood fantatic, B & G is really quite fabulous.
(5)Kel S.
I'm glad we went for restaurant week. The food was good, but too expensive to pay full price (for my budget, anyway.) The wine selection made it difficult to find a reasonably priced glass. The service was decent. It was a fun treat to get to, but with all the restaurants in Boston, not sure I will rush back.
(4)Julie B.
If I had to pay for this I probably would've given it 4 stars but I was lucky enough to be wined and dined, so 5 stars it is! My date made us a reservation for 7:30 on a Thursday night and it was totally packed when we got there. We were immediately sat at a cute corner table with a view overlooking the kitchen. Perfect for watching the oyster-shucking action. I loved the set up at B & G. It's pretty small (with the kitchen taking up almost half the restaurant) but cozy and intimate. Diners can sit at the wraparound bar or at tables. One thing I did find interesting was that the music playing was definitely "kitchen music" -- I think we even heard a couple of old school Eminem songs. Not complaining, but definitely something I noticed. We came for the oysters and oysters is what we got. We ordered a variety which were all SO delicious. They did forget to include one type of oyster but it was no biggie. Besides that little mishap our service was excellent -- the waiter was patient and attentive from start to finish. For my entree I ordered fried clams (because I can't resist a plate of fried food even in the classiest of atmospheres) and my date ordered the hake. The clams were fried to perfection and served with heaping portions of french fries, coleslaw and a big pile of pickles (!!) -- these people know how to woo me. I think my date liked his meal because I caught him licking his plate when he thought I wasn't looking. We're not going out again... I wanted to get dessert but was too full to move. Will have to wait until next time!
(5)Laila B.
I really wanted to eat here during my all-too brief stay in Boston. Unfortunately, I wanted to eat everywhere so by the time I got to lunch at B&G, I had already stopped for a mid-morning snack of several varieties of delightful oysters. Thus partially sated, I ordered the lobster roll. Quickly, I noticed a chef on the line making a beautiful halibut with some sort of broth and chanterelles. Because I had just ordered, I asked to change my lobster roll to the halibut, which they graciously agreed to. Oh Good Lord. It was so wonderful! I will definitely be back next time i'm in town, this time for a whole meal.
(4)Robert W.
Great , great oysters! Tastes of the sea. I had a dozen of all Maryland oysters and they were the freshest, serve with the usual condiments. The New England clam chowder while not cheap for a bowl, was the best I have ate and I have eaten a lot of "chowder". Not thick but loaded with clams and concentrated flavor with a killer crouton. Staff were friendly, helpful. Being Boston it is hard to tell if we had a safe free parking spot, but they keep an eye on our car to make sure we would not be ticketed. We will be back. We were there for lunch so it was not crowded.
(5)Ashley P.
I wanted to give this place 5 stars. It was excellent. But there was one thing keeping me from a 5 star rating.... But let's talk about the good things first, and let me tell you, there were a lot of them! We walked in and were seated in the awesome little corner booth type scenario. Great for people watching, comfortable, and enough space. Our waitress, Hillary, approached us and was super nice and helpful. (Dear B&G managers, you should give her a raise or something, she was great). She helped us with our oyster selections and made wine recommendations as well. Everything we had was wonderful. It was restaurant week, so we got the three course meal. The clam chowder was delicious; however, the clams were very (repeat very) chewy. Weird right? But whatever, the cream/broth literally had us licking the bowls. I had the scallops for dinner which were quite possibly the best scallops I have ever had in my life. Perfectly cooked, great sides, great sauces. In one word - amazing! My boyfriend had the fish which was so flaky and perfect and amazing. Dessert was also to die for. I had the chocolate mouse (with a bit of wine recommended again by the amazing Hillary!). It had toffee and salt, mixed with the dark chocolate it was simply perfection. He got the orange pound cake, and for someone who doesn't really like desserts, he really enjoyed this and finished the whole thing. It was truly a wonderful meal and a wonderful experience. By far, the best seafood I have ever had in Boston. So why not 5 stars? The bathroom. I, unfortunately, had a slight accident a few weeks before our date night causing me to be on crutches. I didn't want to cancel our reservation since it had been so hard to get in the first place, so we decided to brave the snow and head in for a nice night despite my injury. So when I asked where the bathroom was, I was directed to the back of the restaurant where a very narrow, steep, and spiral staircase led down the the bathroom. Ugh, really? I would have had trouble with these stairs even without crutches, especially since I was on my fourth glass of wine. I hobbled back to my seat and decided just to wait until I got home. Perhaps, when I am off the crutches I will head back and update my review to 5 stars. I can honestly say the food and the service were outstanding and I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.
(4)Robert F.
The place has good food and good service. The fish was very fresh and prepared very well. The techniques used is to sear the freshest fish and provide it cooked perfectly. The only negative is that preparation and accompanying vegetables are very minimal and not that tasty. The appetizers were good but not great. The waitress also forgot to order an appetizer and then ordered it and it came just before the meal. The waitress also forgot a side dish that was ordered. Overall it was very fresh good fresh fish prepared very well.
(3)Steph C.
Lured by blog hype of the great lobster roll, I made a lunch reservation for two on a recent trip to Boston. My mother left the restaurant choices for the trip to me, and as we approached B & G from the outside, I had a moment of mild panic in which I thought I was taking her to a dingy divey underground spot. Luckily, though the venue looks run-down from outside, the interior is nice and clean and pretty welcoming in its sterile decor. The service, on the other hand, was somewhat sterile but not too welcoming. Our waitress seemed sullen in seating us, and when we asked for recommendations from the menu, she was not at all forthcoming. To be fair, she wasn't terrible, either, and she picked us some good oysters. As for the food - it was decent, but I don't think I would go back for it. The bread was hard, stale, and boring, and my carb-counting mother saw to it that we didn't take more than a bite each. The oysters were the most impressive part of our meal. We asked our waitress to pick two types and give us two of each, and she chose the Island Creek and the Penn Cove. They were delicious, and the two varieties were notably different - the Island creek small and meaty, the Penn Cove briny and bright. Both tasted lovely with the Prosecco mignonette. The roasted mussels were pretty mediocre, not due to the quality of the bivalves, but more to shy seasoning. The mussels themselves were tasty, if not the best I've had. They were served in a wide bowl with garlic bruschetta, scallions, and what was supposed to be a spicy red sauce. The sauce was thin and unexciting - the most forward flavor was mellow white wine, and while I did appreciate that I could make out the niceness of that taste, the sauce would've benefited from more garlic or more salt or anything really to give it some oomph. Everyone knows that half the appeal of ordering mussels comes from the promise of sop-worthy sauce, and I was not tempted to swirl bread in this bowl when the mussels were gone. As for that Maine lobster roll - while it was admittedly delicious, it didn't live up to my expectations. Perhaps I was spoiled by the amazing $13 roll at James Hook and Co. and was expecting twice the excellence from this $27 version. I can concede that the bread on this roll was substantially better than the hot dog bun at James Hook, with a definite buttery toasted flavor that added an extra sweet note to the lobster. The rest of the roll, though, was very similar. Don't get me wrong - this is a great thing. I'm talking about toothsome, quality lobster meat with a minimal amount of mayo binding. A pretty green sprinkle of chives finished the roll, and it was served with a great coleslaw. The butter pickles on the side were okay, too, and the fries were pretty decent, if less crispy than ideal. Fine, so now that I've written about that lobster roll, I kind of want one. That said, I know that I can find better eats for $27, and a near substitute for $13. The atmosphere of B & G doesn't warrant the high prices, and as I don't live in the area, I can't imagine I'll be back.
(3)Mallory C.
I've lost count of the times I've been here - this is one of my Boston go-to spots. My family lives on the West Coast and each member has been here at least once. If you like seafood, you *will* like this place, there's no argument. Absolutely get oysters when you come - usually I ask the waiter what their favorites are. Service is consistently superb here and always so nice and chill. Although I will forever rave about the mussels here, usually you can't go wrong with the daily special or of course, the fried clams. The ambiance is comfortable classy - a lot of the restaurant's seating is at the bar, with tables hugging the outside wall. Sit at the bar if it's a party of 2-3 - you can watch all the meals being cooked as the majority of the kitchen is right there. Or, if the weather is nice, B&G has a sneaky big patio section.
(4)Scott T.
We got takeout for the lobster sandwich alone, which was featured in a food show we saw in Netflix. We were sold the best Lobster sandwich in Boston, but were seriously underwhelmed. The key distinction about this rendition is a lemon mayo which is lightly used. It seems the rave reviews are from people who also enjoyed the ambiance and service. From the food alone, this sandwich is very overpriced for the meager portion you receive in return. If you aren't tied to a fine dining atmosphere and are indeed looking for a solid lobster sandwich from Boston, I recommend Alive & Kicking Lobsters over in Cambridge, where sacrificing some frills will save you half the cost of the sandwich (and gain you a little more lobster in my opinion)
(3)Andrew H.
in town on a business trip, i was advised to stop by B and G from a friend of mine. knowing my general standards and tastes, he definitely did a good job at directing me to places I would like. upon walking in, I was immediately a fan of the decor...small, chic, and open. i love open kitchens, and being able to watch the chefs prepare dishes and shuck oysters is as good as it gets. dining alone, i plopped myself down at an open seat at the bar, in full view of the raw bar. service was attentive, as immediately i was greeted with a glass of water and an inquiry into drink requests. after placing an order for a glass of wine, i enjoyed the ambiance of the young professional crowd and the contrasting dimness inside to the late evening sunlight outside. after reading a few reviews, it became clear that i had to go with the basics and ordered the lobster roll. when i was placed in front of me, i was pleasantly surprised at the amount of lobster toppling over on the soft roll. sided with a light coleslaw, pickles, and a heap of freshly fried fries, i hungrily scarfed down every morsel on my plate. if i were ever to return to boston, which is looking more and more likely, i wouldn't hesitate to return to B & G's.
(4)Catie C.
I'm typically not an oyster fan. Then why am I here, right? I'm just very picky with oysters because I don't like fishy and salty ones so it's just easier to say I don't like oysters. We trusted our server in picking out the oysters that we may like to try. I must say, she is GOOD! I devoured them while still trying to keep my posture. The clams were great also. Good sized cherrystones that are fresh and meaty. Even tho I was having a bad week in coping with life, this was such a delight! The lobster roll was meaty and not overwhelmed with mayo. We were nice together and shared everything. If only life is as enjoyable as this meal! As for the decor, it is elegant with an open kitchen encompassed by the bar counter. The white counter and tables do give off a bright hue to liven any meal. Many thanks to my buddy that I got to have a nice meal! I love it when friends take me to places I never tried.
(4)Elle J.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Boston area. Their food is outstanding. The shrimp cocktail is the best I've eaten anywhere. The menu is not huge but anything I ever tried was delicious. I highly recommend!
(5)Sarah C.
I've been working around B&G Oysters for years but amazingly have never managed to make it in. Finally ended up there for dinner last night - a party of 2 getting a spot immediately at 7:30pm on a Saturday night? Unheard of! But lovely, nonetheless. Though we didn't take advantage they have a pretty big, and no doubt (knowing Barbara Lynch's places) excellent, wine list. The menu doesn't have a ton of options and they're a bit pricey, but knowing that going in, and that you're going to get high quality (and good sized portions), you should be pleased. We started with the calamari which was a sizeable portion - plenty for sharing - and though very fried, extremely delicious (especially the aioli!) I then got the salmon with brussels - what a PERFECT piece of fish. It had this delicious crispy top, and it was pretty big and cooked perfectly. My friend had the cod which I didn't try, but she seemed to like it. The dessert choices are few and the pecan pie sundae was only fine as opposed to great. I might suggest extending your night if you're up for it and finding another place to grab dessert/coffee/drinks post-dinner. The music choice was a bit weird and because it's so small the temperature fluctuates severely when anyone opens the door(s), but it was cozy nonetheless. Not quite on par with Neptune Oyster, but still very good. All in all, if you're ready to eat delicious food and drop minimum $80 (no drinks) on two people, I definitely recommend!
(4)Melba L.
Before going to Boston, I had read in a website that this was one of the top places to go. I made it a point to make sure I ate here before I left. Make sure you make a reservation via Opentable!! We made a reservation for 1:15 and within 15 min the place was absolutely packed. Now granted, they had outdoor seating but who wants to sit in the humid heat?! I had not ordered clam chowder (my fav) yet in Boston. So I decided to order clam chowder. I was with my fiance and they were so nice they split the one order into two bowls for us. Overall this one of the top 2 clam chowders I've had. The other was in Seattle and I refuse to choose which is #1 because they are so different. This clam chowder was liquidy BUT it had all sorts of different pieces of things inside (bacon, potatoe, etc). At the very top it had (what appeared to be the clam) covered in paprika. So when you mixed it in, it turned the liquid pink. It was absolutely delicious in every way. It was the perfect combination of flavors and texture. We also decided to order 1 lobster roll. I had not yet eaten a lobster roll, but I was nervous about the mayo. I am NO FAN of mayo. HATE MAYO. So I was a bit anxious when they brought it out to us. And once again, their service is just fantastic! They brought out the lobster roll cut into 2 on two seperate plates loaded with fries. They did not have to do that. They could have just cut it in half and given me an extra plate. That says a lot about their service! Back to the lobster roll (sorry have a bit of ADD). It was just absolutely amazing. The texture, the taste... just perfect. Did not even taste a hint of mayo. As for the fries they were on the crispy side (not soggy) and were very tasty. If my memory serves me correctly, I believe they had some sort of green herb on them. Last but not least, my fiance ordered oysters. He ordered 1 of each and absolutely loved every bit of it. They brought out a card indicating which oyster was which in clockwise order. And they were already "shucked" (as he put it). He absolutely loved them (I'm not an oyster person) This place is every bit pricey but I would do it again in a heartbeat!!! Food was amazing and the service is absolutely exceptional!
(5)Corey L.
Went on a Saturday night, enjoyed a feast of Oysters, drinks, and dinner. Was a bit pricey (not sure it was bad for the area or type of food - I can be cheap), but it was solid food-wise, enjoyed it. Also the bar tender was cool and put up with my shit, so that's always good
(4)Kiki D.
Saw this place on "Best Food Ever" and had to check it out. I waited until my nieces came to visit from Las Vegas. Kept telling them about the Lobster Roll and one had envisioned something that looks like sushi and the other was thinking egg rolls. When it finally came to the table, we had a good laugh about that! Heaven on a bun...need I say more? The crab cake sandwich and BLT were yummy also, as were the fries. Hillary was a real sweetheart and when we were done eating, she got us on the right direction to catch the train at Back Bay. I will definitely come back here and partake of the Lobster Roll again.
(4)Crystal S.
Overall an amazing dining experience. My date and I had dinner before the Sox/Yankees game on Saturday. The oysters were great, we had a large assortment and loved them all. I really liked the chowder, it was smokey tasting with bacon. The Lobster + BLT sandwich was AMAZING!!!!! One of the best sandwiches I have ever had.
(5)Caitlin A.
Ok, so after hearing about this place from tons of friends and seeing it reviewed as "best sandwich" on the show The Best Thing I Ever Ate, we decided to give it a go. It's tiny. Cluster phobic tiny. But a lively atmosphere. I can see how some may see this place as romantic, but seeing as they seated another couple practically on top of us, so...not so much. To start I got a 1/2 dozen oysters. They were great; there was a nice selection to choose from, they were fresh and they weren't too pricey. For dinner I got the Lobster BLT and he got the Atlantic Char. While we were talking we noticed our food being brought over to the table next to us by the incompetent hostess. The guy says, "I ordered the lobster roll", but instead of realizing her error, she drops the char at the table and brings the BLT back to the kitchen. Finally 20 minutes later when our server comes by and sees the table next to us chomping away, and us with nothing, she runs to the kitchen and comes out with food shortly after. My BLT was good, a decent amount of lobster, delicious pork fat, but the bread was way to hard. It made the sandwich that much less enjoyable. Most definitely not worth 28$. The Char was cooked perfectly, but the portion size was ridiculously small. How do these people charge so much? He also didn't like the wild rice that it came with, nor was he full. To make up for the mishap with our dinners, our waitress brought over a plate of fried oysters on the house. I hate fried oysters and he wont touch any kind of oyster so, though it was a nice gesture, it was a waste of food. Overall, I was not impressed by the food, definitely not the prices and not the service. "Eh" is the word that comes most to mind.
(2)Helen L.
This place is freakin' AWESOME. It really is as good as it gets for seafood. I went their with my bosses for a business meeting and we got the fried clams for an appetizer and lobster rolls for the meal. The fried clams are the BEST THING EVER. It was AMAAAAZINGGG. It's basically just a fried bunch of greatness, dipped in Tartar sauce. The clams are so fresh!!!! The lobster roll was beautiful-looking, as you can tell by my photos. There are legit CHUNKS of lobster, which is very high quality. Usually, when you go get lobster rolls at normal places like Legals, it's tiny pieces of lobster, but not real chunks. This place had real chunks. The atmosphere was very cute! It was a nice day outside, so we sat outside in their outdoor area and had the sun in our faces. The Lobster roll was $27 so yes, it's pricey. But it was definitely great quality. GET THE FRIED CLAMS. They were my favourite. Not only was the lobster roll good, but the cole slaw and french fries were yummy too! I don't know how they made it so good but it was really tasty. And they had these pickles that were really sweet but somehow went really well with the lobster roll. Service was great; waiter was very friendly. Okay, just go there! Maybe for a nice date. It's a real cute place!
(5)Anna L.
I went here last week for Restaurant week. Despite being 15 minutes late and calling ahead, the staff was still super friendly and very self deprecating, assuring me it was not a problem for being late at all. I have celiac's disease and thus am gluten-free, and the staff was extremely accommodating to make sure everything I ate was safe. We ate outside on the patio - I had the seared shrimp salad and my husband had a fried clam sandwich and we split a chef selection of oysters - which were $2/each. We would definitely come back again!
(5)Callan C.
The oysters are very fresh and there was a great selection. Everything we had tasted good and was well executed. Beyond that I found the menu items to be a tad overpriced. Additionally, the place was small and not very comfortable. I wanted to eat my food and get out quickly. Nice to try, the food is high quality but just falling short in a few areas!
(4)Sean R.
We had great expectations for B&G. We had been to other Barbara Lynch restaurants and loved them. THIS WAS NOT THE CASE TODAY. Service was awful and not very forgiving. Here are the facts: Restaurant Week Boston 8/22/2013 12:15 Reservation - Seated at 12:08. We were one of two tables sat in teh garden outside. One Server, one bus for about 8 tables (not overloaded) Ordered three course lunch meal @ about 12:20, my wife and I added a Chef Selection of 4 Oysters - which by the way was not a selection it was just one location 12:25 - Oysters arrive 12:53 - First course arrives, meanwhile 2 - 2 top, 2 -4 top and 1 -6 top tables have been sat, ordered and been served an oyster course and first course. 1:15 - asked the server for our desserts to go, still had not been served our main dish, and at least half the tables that got sat after us had been served. Server informed us that we had another 8-10 minutes for dishes. At this point we decided to leave, but they still charged us for 1/3 the price of the three course meal. No real apologies until I called them and told them how dissappointed I was with them. The excuse given was that we were progressing through lunch at the normal pace. My problem is that if you are open for lunch in a busy city, you should be able to get people in and out with an hour. We were progressing towards a 2 hour lunch. For a tourist that is fine, but for busy professionals, it is not acceptable. I will definitely think twice about another Barbara Lynch restaurant for lunch during work.
(1)Alan S.
I've been here twice over the years. The first time, a few years ago, was a 4 star experience. Went over the summer, on a beautiful day, and sat on one of their outdoor tables and had a great 3-course meal. I came here again a few weeks ago and the food was just "ok". The space is tight but I really enjoyed sitting at the bar and watching the chefs at work. I got the lobster bisque and the lobster roll and both were just average. A lot of people say this is the best lobster roll in the city. I couldn't disagree more. This isn't even remotely in the same league as Neptune Oyster's. B&G's is more expensive, less lobster, and less flavorful. The fries, however, are addicting. For $28, I just expected a little more from a lobster roll.
(3)Robert D.
Dined here was great!! 6 dozen oysters and another steak tartare knocked down place is so worth going. Staff was friendly and attentive.little champagne and a seafood tower goes very well on a beautiful end of summer weekend
(5)Tiffany Q.
My Husband and I took a friend out to dinner last night. I'm not a fan of oyster's they love them. So B&G was the winner plus we had never been there before. We were prompted seated when we arrived for our reservation. The waiter was very knowledgeable about the wines on the menu as well as the selection of oysters available. When they finished the oysters we asked the waiter to place our dinner order. I was ordering the swordfish and they were ordering the lobster roll. The waiter stopped then proceed to tell us they were out of lobster. My Husband ordered a bowl of chowder and our friend ordered the swordfish as I did. Just before our dinner came out, the waiter brought over a Chef's special appetizer (on the house). It was delicious! Our meals came out and they were delicious! We paid the tab and were on our way out when a gentlemen came to the table. He asked us how our dinner was and then said he was told be the waiter that our table was looking to order 2 lobster rolls for dinner. He was extremely apologetic that it wasn't available tonight. He then proceeded to put two gift cards on our table; one for my Husband and one for our friend. The gentlemen stated that the gift card should be more then enough to cover the cost of the lobster roll for the next time we come in because he would love to have us come back. Now that right there is good customer service. And not because we were given gift cards to come back, but because of what happened behind the scenes. The waiter brought it to the attention of the manager and they had already brought us out an appetizer. They went that extra mile to really gain new customers. We will definitely be back and not because we have gift cards because I don't eat lobster. I'll be ordering the swordfish again!
(5)Jennifer L.
LOBSTER ROLL. get it. eat it. thank me later. $27 for a sandwich sounded a bit intimidating, but the B&G LOBSTER ROLL is the best. We didn't have reservations so we sat at the bar. It was the most amazing lobster I'd ever had. The Back Bay neighborhood itself is a must see, but the B&G LOBSTER ROLL is a MUST EAT!
(5)Kyle W.
I guess I'll start with the service which reminded me of McDonalds if McDonalds had a wait staff. It was so bad I wish I would of got up and left after the hostess (waitress) was extremely rude. The atmosphere reminds me of an old diner. The inside is small and the chefs I mean kitchen staff. Sorry had to correct that because chefs have training. The kitchen staff places the food right on the counter of the bar where people are sitting. So I sat there staring at my food hoping the waitress (hostess) that was doing nothing would wander over and hand it to me. The food itself was awful. Like i could kind of tell they tried with the plate presentation but it was not good at all. Overpriced and low quality, ABSOLUTELY.
(1)Dee J.
I love this place, The wife and I always make it a habit to stop in for dinner when ever in town. The selection is unique, the service is knowledgeable and the ambiance is lots of fun. Must have reservations, the cherrystones clams, oysters and the loberter roll!
(5)Alma C.
cozy little space, good lobster roll, better chowder, very good selection of oysters, above average service.
(4)Eugene H.
I went to Boston for four days. I ate at a bunch of restaurants looking for fresh fish, lobster, and oysters. Among the restaurants (Atlantic Fish, Legal Seafoods, Barking Crab), this was our favorite. This place is small and not a special occasion restaurant but it's great for eating with one or a few friends in a casual but well serviced environment. My wife and I loved the oysters on Mondays during their $1 Happy Hour. They have the best lobster rolls. Yes, $27 is pricey but I'd do it again. We loved sitting at the bar watching the chef cook everything to order. The calamari was breaded and seasoned perfectly. If I were to do our trip again, I'd skip the other places and come back to B&G a few times!
(5)Christina N.
When you come to Boston as a tourist, your sole job is to discover the amazingness and wonder that surrounds the lobster roll. When I went to B&G for my final meal in Boston, I not only discovered the lobster roll, I reveled in amazing lobster roll glory! Head to toe, B&G is great place to dine; cute, contemporary decor, clean open kitchen and oyster bar, and a great menu. We started with a set of 5 types of east coast oysters and some fried oysters as well. Both dishes were beautifully presented and fulfilled our bivalve cravings. The lobster roll was next and was dressed to impress. Big chunks of lobster seasoned perfectly with lemon and chives sat, piled high in a soft, lightly toasted, buttered roll. Homemade pickles, coleslaw and fries completed the meal and sent me home to SF happily satisfied. The only thing that would have me happier is if I could have fit dessert in too, but alas the lobster roll was the dominant force. Maybe next time.
(4)lauren s.
We didn't get oysters, but what we did get was fantastic. Lobster bisque and fried calamari for my daughter and a Restaurant Week menu for myself: one of the best bibb lettuce salads I've ever had, and seared scallops with farro, The scallops were huge, beautifully browned and perfectly cooked. The ambiance was casual and welcoming yet lively. We sat at the bar and the bartender/waitress was friendly without being intrusive. And I always enjoy watching the kitchen dance in action.
(5)Mindy M.
Very disappointed- overpriced with small portions of food and not very tasty- sorry but I have had much better lobster rolls on the beach in Quincy for a lot less money. Also - the wine list was poor- not many choices- anyway- we will not return- Bill was 250.00 for 4 people and we left hungry!
(1)Samantha C.
I've come here three times while visiting Boston and it has been consistently amazing. The restaurant is narrow and cozy, tucked away down a flight of stairs off the street. If we weren't looking for it, I would never have known it was there! What you should get: - fresh oysters! Obviously. - fried oysters topped with tartar sauce. hot, flavorful, and delicious! - steamed mussels. the broth is the winner here. so good that it's worth drinking as a soup! - lobster roll. their most popular dish. huge chunks of fresh lobster. they don't skimp at all! - hake. perfectly crispy on the outside and flaky tender on the inside. comes with brussel sprouts topped with bacon bits. love bacon - how could you lose?! :) - wine! Skip: - the cinnamon pavlova poached pear. this was just meh. I'm sure to be back in four weeks on my next Boston trip. :)
(5)Michael H.
The food was very disappointing. I went as part of a group of 4 and we had a large platter of oysters which were decent, if oysters are fresh there really isn't too much you can do wrong here. Prior to eating anything, when we arrived, there was a couple sitting next to us (at the same table) which we didn't mind because they were very nice. We discussed dishes and both had different specials as their entrees which they recommended to us. We asked our waiter about the specials and unfortunately they were out of both so we had to choose from the menu which was also out of two items. As best I can remember the choice came down to fried claims, salmon, lobster roll or cod. How does that menu sound to you as all the options for entrees? To me it was disappointing, and looked more like the menu from a shack by the sea then a nice restaurant in the south end. We moved forward and I ordered a lobster roll which I wouldn't normally get but I figured, why not. It was nothing special just lobster in a roll as expected with a side of fries. Everyone in our group had the same basic experience. The service was good, the food was decent but lacked selection. They may have some good food but it unfortunately wasn't available when I was there...
(2)George S.
Fantastic oysters and creative fish dishes. Staff was attentive. Pricey but well worth it. Might upgrade to 5 stars if they repeat on my next visit.
(4)Colleen W.
I had a fantastic meal here alone at the bar...and I only had to 90 minutes for the spot. This place is tiny! Make reservations. I started with some of the best oysters I've ever had. Trust the servers here, they make great selections. I asked for an East coast trio and she selected a Rocky Bay from PEI, a Pemaquid from Maine, and an Island Creek from Massachussetts. They were fresh, silky, briny delights on a half-shell. I could have, and maybe should have, just ordered a dozen and called it a night. However, the lobster roll was calling my name. Being from the Pacific Northwest, I haven't had a true lobster roll before. I'm going to assume that this was the high end real deal. It had beautiful chunks of succulent lobster in it with light dressing on a delicious roll. It comes with some crispy fries, sweet pickles and a light cole slaw. If you're in Boston looking for this classic - indulge here. I'd give this place 5 stars but the wait for a seat was incredible and they short poured my wine (by the glass) which was outrageously priced. My bill was $75, including tip, which is a little steep for 3 oysters and a lobster roll...but I have no regrets.
(4)Ryan S.
Seafood with an Italian flair, how can you go wrong? Great pasta dishes and fresh seafood. Wonderful appetizers with friendly servers. I like the upscale but trendy environment and it is clean and nice. Oh, and do not pass up on their specialty, oysters.
(4)Lynn C.
I would actually give it 4.5 stars rather than 5, but I'm going to round down for some slight mishaps. My boyfriend and I went with a friend of ours and his date (so a double-date). The food: We started with oysters but I didn't have any because I don't like them. My boyfriend who generally does not eat oysters said that they were so good he's developed a taste for oysters. Admittedly I tried one of the oyster sauce (garlic lemon buttery flavour) and it was really good. I tried to RW menu and chose the Lobster Bisque, Seafood Gnocchi, and Vanilla Panna Cotta. The Lobster Bisque was bursting with flavour, possibly the BEST lobster bisque I've ever had. The Gnocchi was very tasty as well and the dessert was delectable! The only thing was the portions are extremely tiny. Three spoonsfuls of the bisque, literally a total of five tiny gnocchi in there, and a small-size panna cotta. Good thing I had two glasses wine to fill me up. My boyfriend had the roasted mussels, which was actually less appetizing. The menu said bruschetta was in the dish, but it was a mountain full of mussels, three pieces of toasted french bread, and a lot of tomatoes. The flavour was good, but that should not have been an entree. I helped him out with the mussel but we still couldn't finish it. The service and the wine: Our server was really friendly and really helpful. Our friends wanted white wine but I don't really like whites because they tend to be pretty dry. I told our server this and she recommended a full-bodied german reisling that was sweet and smooth. When we wanted a second bottle, she brought over a lighter reisling that you can get by the glass that was lighter and fruitier so we can try to see if we like it, we got that too! After dinner, we asked our server we can continue to leave our friend's car with the valet at B&G and she said there was no problem. When we got back to B&G, the valet was missing. We went back in the restaurant to ask and our server came outside and started talking to all the valet services around angrily to get our car back. She was wonderful! I'd definitely go back for another visit!
(4)Tyson F.
You can't go wrong with a Barbara Lynch restaurant, and B&G Oysters is probably the best place to grab oysters and fresh seafood in the South End. As a matter of fact, I popped my oyster cherry here, and have stopped back quite a few times ever since. My only 2 gripes would be prices and a very small draft beer selection (2 draft beer choices, to be exact). But you definitely get what you pay for. The oyster selection is fantastic, and the freshness couldn't get any better. Absolutely delicious. I usually order the lobster roll, which is insanely priced considering it's size, but the flavor is so unbelievably good that I simply can't resist. If you find yourself craving seafood or oysters in the South End, this is the place to be.
(5)Shaina P.
Perhaps I should open a new review specifically for the Oyster Invitational, but not sure... I feel that we all got a great sense for the fun and freshness that is B&G oysters today. B&G prides itself with seafood dishes and certainly takes note of seasonal greats. It's close quarters create a breezy oceanic aura, much like being in a ship, and its rear patio provides even more room to breathe. From 12-8 today, neighbors, executive chefs, friends, and foodies alike, corralled in the tiny B&G interior and swamped the exterior to celebrate 5 years of the Patio. It cost $45. That is $45 of well worth it delicious oyster overload PLUS some of B&G's signature dishes (tastes). 12:00 pm casual oytster devouring 4:00 pm dance party music rockin 7:10 pm the memorable speech Here, I will record my favorite bivalves. And here I may admit that maybe I should start a new review because I don't believe B&G serves these oysters all the time... Island Creek of Duxbury, MA (the B&G staple oyster) -- medium size, briny, and sweet Matunuk of Rhode Island -- medium, ultra sweet, less brine, awesome Cotuit Oyster Co. -- meaty, sweet, mild brine, my fave, great for chewers Gigamoto Oysters from Washington; Pemaquid, ME, oysters; Pebble Beach; and of course those big azz oysters as big as my hand! Arrrrmmmmm......yum But as for the specialties, we saw a lot a bit of the lobster roll -- lightly dressed, hint of citrus; fried calamaris and oysters; oyster fritters; fries. And the hit of the day consisted of dishes created by local chefs, such as that of Louis (Sel de la Terre -- chilled oyster ceviche? i probably butchered that description). I'm so full I feel drunk; or maybe I drank so much that I truly am drunk... and therefore full. Quote of the night by Ms. Lynch: "You guys fuc*in devoured the sh!t out of the oysters tonight." And yes, Barbara, we did. And I will happily return to devour more of the goodness and fun that was B&G.
(5)Anna T.
This place is great and if I had more money, I would be here a lot more! I had a few Blue Point oysters here and the presentation was great, but the taste of the oysters and the condiments offered were even better! The place is pretty small but totally open, you can see the kitchen from anywhere you sit since it is directly behind the open bar, you can see your food being made from any place in the restaurant, which means you know it's good since they have nothing to hide! The prices are steep but that is what you get for quality seafood in the northeast, especially in a city, so in my opinion it is worth it! The place is clean and fairly quiet but not so quiet you feel that you need to whisper. Great place, will definitely go back here!
(4)Brady B.
Pretentious? Check. Overpriced? Check. Nice location in the once hip and now sterile South End? Check. Ok, now the review. Nice sunken patio area in the back of the restaurant that is quite private. The oysters are delicious and the food is adequate. This is a Barbara Lynch restaurant, period. I'm not putting Ms Lynch down whatsoever. She's an excellent chef that leaves an impression no doubt. The problem I have is like Todd English and many others in the league, is that once you open one amazing restaurant, then two, then three or four more, the love in the food is gone. It's like Paula Deen. She opened The Lady And Sons in Savannah to a smashing success years ago. She then went on to become a household name, an entrepreneur, a celebrity as well as a multimillionaire. Look up the reviews for The Lady And Sons nowadays and it's gone to hell seeing as she has barely any involvement in it anymore. Get my point? B&G is good, not great.
(3)Picky B.
Lovely dining setting. The outdoor back patio is pretty and relaxed. The hosts were very friendly and accommodating, taking our number down for the 30-45 min wait and sending us across the street to their sister restaurant, the Butcher Shop for a drink. Food was solid. We shared 24 oysters, each 3 oysters from a different location. Yumm. The asparagus with poached egg appetizer was somewhat disappointing. Lobster roll and lobster orechiette were very good.
(4)Qasim R.
A cozy little place, with a great oyster selection as the name suggests. The lobster roll as evidenced by the many other reviews is simply amazing, although I felt it was a bit overpriced. The clam chowder and beet salads were pretty good as well. Oysters were probably the star of the meal. We left the selection of them to the waitress and I must say she selected very well. They were simple amazing and the only reason why I went back there few times. The service is excellent and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. The tables are placed pretty close together so you chat up the ppl at the next table, an affair I always enjoy in certain places. Considering the service, environment and the oysters, I would be definitely heading back there soon.
(4)Josephine R.
One of my fave restaurants in Boston. The food is just unreal. The oysters are so great and fresh and the waiters are so knowledgeable. The lobster roll is to die for. Yeah it's a little expensive but hello it's Boston what do you expect? Overall totally worth every penny. Love to indulge about once a month.
(5)Russ L.
Maybe it was the romantic birthday lunch that explains this rating. One Friday afternoon on my birthday, we cut out early for a late lynch: oysters and proseco. What a meal! We sat at the bar. The oysters we perfect, the wine was perfect, the service was perfect. If you want a nice special occasion, this is the place.
(5)John M.
Lamest lobster roll in town. Looked like something suitable for an afternoon tea party not a place with "oyster" in the name. It was tiny (and $29 v $25 at Neptune) and lobster was water logged (no mayo). Lobster was diced into little scraps and the scallion-like taste(?) killed any flavor the lobster may have had. On the plus side, service was good, oysters were tasty (need more detail on the shellfish menu) and wine selection a plus. Fries were terrific.
(2)Chantelle A.
I AM A FANNNNN! B&G Oysters was amazing. During a trip to Boston, we realized it was Boston Restaurant Week! Lucky us! We are huge fans of DC Restaurant Week so we decided to take advantage of the deal while on vacation! We made lunch reservations about a week prior to our trip...but, when I arrived the restaurant exceeded my expectations! We walked to B&G, through Blackstone Square....so by the time we arrived, I was hungryyyy! When we arrived, I expected a little hole in the wall oyster bar but, noooooo this place was like The Secret Garden! The outdoor stonewalled patio was GORGEOUS....you had all the perks of being outdoors but, it was so...intimate. Our waitress was an amazing woman...who was very patient as we drooled over the limited but lovely menu. We stated off with a couple of beers and bread with olive oil....NICE right?? Of course, we couldn't resist the raw oyster menu. The oyster menu offered oysters from all over New England and Canada...and they were fresh and tasty...of course. Since it was restaurant week, we each had 3 courses... Me-Lobster Beignets Him-Steamed Mussels in this amazing broth Me-Massachusetts Blue Cod with mushrooms Him-Fried Oyster Sandwich with French Fries Me-Yogurt Ice Cream with melon and black pepper syrup Him-Chocolate Tart with Cherry Compote Each course was amazing...but, the yogurt ice cream with melon and black pepper syrup was out of this world! I've never tasted anything like it....and I want more :( Psssst...anyway I can get that recipe??? Everything about B&G Oysters was perfect...except for the spiral stairs leading to the bathroom...1 more beer and I would have tumbled down :)
(5)Brian D.
There may be nothing quite as disgusting and or as simple and perfect as slamming a dozen or so cold, raw oysters down one's gullet. I can see why sea otters have spent so much time learning to smash these little buggers apart. B and G has an excellent array of different oysters from all over the country, Massachusetts, Virginia, Oregon, etc. This makes me happy and ready to pony up to the raw bar as often as I can. The great thing about raw oysters is that it is very much a love it or leave it obsession. You won't need to sit next too many people (at the actual raw bar) who are rolling their eyes and making choking sounds as they try to force down that first ever raw oyster. Nope. Those folks are probably not going to wander in, fresh off the train from someplace like Worcester where nobody has ever, ever, ever had a raw oyster before. Nope. Bonus, short but excellent wine list. Bonus, perfect french fries. Add to any oyster order for mouth bliss. Bonus, if you go here on Saint Patrick's day you will not need to worry about hordes of drunken hooligans spilling beer on your favorite sweater. That's usually what I worry about. Bonus, it's a bit pricey (if you are a cheap ass like me) so when you leave stuffed and happy you really feel like you got your moneys worth.
(4)Ross H.
B&G is delicious. I went with my parents and got the Lobster Roll. Pretty pricy but the seafood is very fresh. Props to Barbara Lynch.
(4)Jason B.
B & G Oysters set their rifle sights on bivalves, and hit them dead on. Nailed them. I've had better oysters, but only ones I pulled out of the sea myself. Short of that experience, you're not going to find fresher in Boston. Our reservations were for 6:30 on Saturday night, and we were a bit early, but they seated us quickly, though alas, not in the patio room. We had a nice view of the open kitchen. B &G serves only beer and wine, and the night that we were there, there were some problems with their taps, so no draft beer. No matter, they stock a great Maine beer, Peak Organic Pale Ale. Their wine list is superb, and sports the usual hideous markup. The Peak Pale Ale was a perfect pairing with the fresh, delicious, Massachusetts oysters, which are served in the half-shell with broth, cocktail sauce and horseradish, all of which should be eschewed so as to experience the real flavor of the ocean which these beauties sport. As an appetizer we tried the Maine Crab Beignet, which was superb. Light, crispy breading covered a fluffy, savory interior, which, though not particularly redolent of crabmeat, had a wonderful, smoky-fennel taste. I've eaten mussels all over New England, and as with the oysters, I've never had better than their Maine Rope-Grown Mussels. A HUGE mound of perfectly steamed mussels in a decadent, buttery broth is served with homemade sausage (no casing), onions, chunks of roasted garlic, and three big-ass pieces of grilled, buttery crostini. Needless to say, I devoured this mound of goodness with aplomb. The salmon was an ordinary, but nicely prepared piece of fish. The large-grain Israeli couscous is a great compliment, and the whole dish pairs most excellent well with a Verdelho. Service was expert and swift, competent and friendly. The menu is priced well for the level of quality of the preparation and the ingredients. The atmosphere of the restaurant is the only real complaint - the open kitchen is nice, but not for everyone - the limited number of tables and the small size of the house puts everyone within kissing distance of the fire. A table out on the patio would be perfect on a nice evening, but call a couple of weeks ahead if you want one, or be prepared for a long wait. Diners can feel comfortable dressing casual to business-casual. It's a great dining spot in the South End, and worth the trip from any part of town.
(4)Dave F.
We stopped in on a weekend afternoon to taste test some oysters. We ordered the Little Island (Bagaduce, ME), the Rhode Island wild (Narrangasett Bay), the Blue Points (Great South Bay, NY) which were our favorites. We also had the Salutation, Cotuit and Marionpoint. Once our taste buds were fired up I had a BLT (alas no lobster) and my wife had the salade Nicoise with nice presentation of seared tuna on top. These were good, but the oysters really made the meal.
(4)Jack T.
Knew it to be pricy but in my humble opinion I saw no value. Like the book "The Emperor's new clothes" no one wants to admit that they are getting ripped off, each one thinking that they are among the culinary elite for choosing to dine there. Best clam chowder? Who are you kidding. Clams were too tough to chew, base was over prepared. $28 dollar lobster roll was no big thrill either. I'd say Kelly's could have served a better one. Service.....for what I paid for the meal you would not think I would have to flag someone down each time to fill a water or wine glass. All sweet when taking the sale, no back up or follow through. Bill was over $400 for four diners. Oh the French fries were awesome and the serving size descent. Hate to think I would spend that much again to enjoy fries. Fool we once shame on you. Full me twice shame on me.
(1)R G.
I've always heard good things about B & G Oysters but had never been. So, when the bf and I were in the area after a day a strolling in the sun, I thought we might stop in. We entered the gate and as we approached a table by the entrance, a waitress comes walking by giving us an accusatory and rather hostile look. "Mind if we take a look at the menu?" the bf asked. "Please do! Let us know if you have any questions!" was not the reply we received. Not even, "Sure, they're right here." No. The response we received, with a blatant eye roll and enough attitude to make a 15-year-old mean girl quake in her cheer uniform, was "That's what they're there for," as she practically shoved past us. There's just no excuse for that. Honestly, I've never had any server speak to me with such obvious disdain. I might expect it at a McDonalds, but not here. Perhaps it's unfair to judge a restaurant on a brief encounter with one employee, but it killed any desire I had to spend my money there.
(1)Ahmad A.
First of all the fried oysters are to die for, their tartar sauce is yummy! I had the salmon ( which I ordered well done) it was delicious with a lovely crispy skin. My wife had the lobster tail which she loved. The chocolate torte with mascarpone was amazing , perfection portion for two . The service was amazing, our waiter was very helpful and professional. All in all it was an amazing valentine with great food !
(5)Jimmy N.
Firstly, let me just preface this by saying this place is really pricey. Seafood in general is pricey, and oyster bars in general are pricey, but this place is a fancy oyster bar and extra pricey. That said, cheap ol' me is still giving this 4 stars. Normally I would be raging and deducting stars, but for some reason B&G's outrageous prices don't make me angry. It's a simple unpretentious pricey oyster bar, and it's patrons are probably by and large simple unpretentious people with money who love oysters. I would like to think I'm simple and unpretentious and love oysters and still working on the money part. When I have more money (obviously much later on in life), I will come back to B&G with a nice girl and treat her to some nice oysters at this simple and unpretentious place. And then I will give it 5 stars instead of 4 stars if it keeps the quality of food up. Oh, I had a lobster roll. It was good. LOTS of lobster and minimal amount of mayo, which is how it's supposed to be. Both my friend and I, both cheap poor simple souls, had no complaints forking over the 27$ or so for the treat. Go if you have money. Go if you don't have money if you want, but plan to spend money. Take it for what it is, and what it is is sorta pricey.
(4)Jaime Patricio M.
I discovered B&G primarily because of the many accolades of having one of the best lobster rolls in Boston. I am a big fan of lobster rolls and simply had to have a B&G lobster roll. This lobster roll was a size that I never get to enjoy--large--each bite was splendid sweet and not sloshed in mayonnaise. The bread was air light and complement the roll completely. The fries were double fried and I kept as the server what potatoes were utilized--she said russet--but I think they may have been Kennebec - perfect consistency, flavor with a dash of sweetness. The server was incredibly friendly and accommodating and worked very hard to making sure the table had everything we needed. I was impressed when one dinner guest had an allergy to some ingredients and the way it was handled was with absolute patience and professionalism. We ate outside but prefer eating inside--much more ambiance. A wonderful Barbara Lynch dining experience.
(5)Hieu H.
Ready for a $27 dollar lobster roll? Went here for the first time for restaurant week, and just had to have an "authentic" Boston experience by eating a lobster roll. For 27bucks, it was all lobster and no filler lightly dressed in mayonnaise.
(4)Jasmine K.
Beautiful restaurant with fresh oysters and delicious salads. The clam chowder was too spicy for my taste but appreciated the originality of it. The thing that I loved about this place is we sat at the kitchen and watched them chuck the oysters for us and they were so fresh.
(4)Roma o.
Neptune oysters was too busy so we gave it a shot. We sat at the bar because all tables were booked and bar was empty. Place is very clean. Atmosphere was nice. The staff was friendly, helpful, polite and very professional. Food was cooked fast and we saw the whole process. Oysters were good. Lobster sandwiches were very good too. We had a very pleasant experience.
(5)Maurice J.
I'm a regular at this favourite restaurant. However, last night at 6.30 went over with a business associate who had an 8.30pm flight. Hoped to have a quick dinner. Numerous single seats were available at the counter , as well as 2 together and numerous tables for 2. We were NOT accommodated....the hostess was inflexible and showed little interest in trying to move people ( rather than allowing single seats open ), nor to give us the 2 seats together. Other tables were supposedly reserved. Her attitude was so indifferent and off-putting, we left....called Oishi and had an amazing dinner...spending a fortune ( not far from 300 dollars).. I called to speak to the manager....her voicemail said she would be away until March 5 or 6.....today is January 31st ??? Called back and got to speak with her a half hour later. To be honest, this was the catalyst to write this review....she seemed about as enthusiastic as the hostess last night....an apology offered and that's it. No attempt to ask for my name or number ( she said she does not often check voicemails ?? ). I do not need free meals or anything else, but some sort of sincere interest would have been welcomed. Guess I may have to go elsewhere for my oysters from now on, even though I live 2 streets away.
(1)Mike C.
The place is small and quaint. a good date place perhaps. There were only 2-4 options for oysters on this particular day and their fried clams entree (which we shared) was rather uninspiring unless you want alot of french fries with a side of fried batter with a hint of clams. we had a few oysters and my 2nd one tasted very salt watery and the third fishy....needless to say, i didnt eat anymore of them....didnt feel like putting my digestive system through 8 hours of unwanted and uncontrollable body excretions... customer service is also not the greatest...they're not rude, they're just....uhhh...kind of unfriendly. also, the bathrooms are down a very steep and small spiral staircase. if you're coming with older folks who have trouble with stairs, this is NOT the place to go. would recommend ICOB or neptunes instead.
(1)Jake L.
An old favorite of mine when I used to live in the S End. Simply put, you will not regret the decision to dine here. Get a seat in the back patio if possible. The oysters are always the finest available, and the preparation of all of the items is always top rate. Lunch today was no exception!
(5)Liv N.
The BEST Oyster restaurant I've ever been to! Outstanding! Oysters are fresher than FRESH, and so delicious. You can easily get carried away and eat dozens and dozens...great variety, and their lobster BLT is also to die for. We went for my Dad's 60th and easily ordered over 100 oysters... none were left, we were addicted! Honestly, this place and Neptunes -- cant beat 'em.
(5)Alan C.
From start to finish, I was very disappointed with this restaurant. Everything, from service to food, was sub-par. The restaurant was very small, with some outdoor seating. We decided to sit outdoors. We placed our order: 12 different types of oysters, a clam chowder, king salmon tartar, and fried green tomatoes. The various types of oysters was interesting. This is definitely an interesting place if you're an oyster aficionado. The clam chowder was also interesting, but not exactly to my liking... but to each his own. Then we waited about half an hour for the king salmon tartar and fried green tomatoes to arrive while every other table around us promptly got their food. I felt the server was too busy socializing (with other guests and other servers) to notice that we never received the rest of our order. When the food finally came, they were a huge disappointment. I wish I would have tried a lobster roll so I could review on that, but as far as what we had, I could only recommend this place to an oyster lover.
(2)Libby T.
Oyster-heaven. Great selection, super fresh, and professionally shucked (no sand or shell, thank you!). The fish wasn't incredible, but definitely fresh. I went with my Grandparents as a last minute option when they were in town. Definitely not 70-something appropriate - high bar chairs and hip hop, though the food was amazing and I (with a younger date) will definitely be back.
(4)Rachel S.
just had a beer. The server was weird and said we couldn't sit outside because a storm was coming...that was just a lie, not a spot of rain all night. They were just lazy.
(3)Eric F.
After my first wonderful experience with raw seafood at Neptune Oyster, I had to try the offerings of competitors in Boston. First up was B & G Oysters and having completed a big exam this morning, what better time to go out and down some of the sea's delicious inhabitants? ;) The line-up: Island Creek Wellfleet Summerside, P.E.I. Rome Point, Rhode Island Delaware Bay, New Jersey Hunter Point, Washington (very briny for those that love the natural taste =D) Marionport, Massachusetts (delicious! well-balanced savory flavor) French Kiss, New Brunswick Conway Royal, P.E.I. Cedarisland, Rhode Island Chef Creek, British Columbia (crisp & refreshing, lightly briny) Little Wing, British Columbia Though I'm by no means an oyster connoisseur, B & G's offerings were fantastic and I was especially pleased with the Marionports. The more "standard fare" Island Creeks and Wellfleets were also very good, though I'd have to give the nod to Neptune Oyster for their catches of those two varieties. My friend gave their RW menu a shot and decided on the Lobster Bisque, Seafood Gnocchi, and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta. He was very impressed with all of them, especially the former two. I tried a bit of the gnocchi as well and definitely echo his thoughts - the gnocchi had a smooth texture and the clams in the dish were very fresh. How about the wine, you may ask? The selection of whites by the glass was exceptional and I had the chance to try three. The 2008 Louvetrie Muscadet Sevre et Maine is clean and dry with light citrus notes and paired perfectly with the raw seafood. Moving up, the 2008 Granger Beaujolais Villages Blanc La Jacarde offered a medium body with a silky, lingering finish that was delectable. I rounded things out with the 2008 No. 9 Park Pinot Blanc, a very full bodied white with strong buttery notes and a mild oakey flavor. The ambiance of the place is uncannily similar to The Butcher Shop (big surprise =P) - a great balance of modern classiness with an intimate, cozy feel. Our waitress at the bar was friendly, courteous, and attentive and did a great job of keeping track of our progress throughout the meal. So if you ever having a seafood craving, by all means stop by B & G Oysters and give them a try, you won't regret it!
(4)Kelly C.
While not a place I would go often, just because of price, I really enjoyed my dinner there, and don't think anyone would be disapointed by the taste of anything there. Just the price. The waitress was very helpful in suggesting wines, and oysters. Definitely fun to see the VERY different flavors and textures of oyster from all over. While the Corn "beignets" aren't really beignets...they are delicious but sadly overpriced. They appear more like a hush puppy but super light and fluffy on the inside. I chose the lobster roll and felt like the portion was HUGE! The fries were great, and the pickles delicious! Sadly, my dining companion could not say the same for the lobster gnocchi. A tiny portion of pasta and lobster. He would have been much better off with the lobster roll for $27. Just go in knowing you're gonna spend some dough and you won't be disappointed.
(4)Ashley E.
I really want to give B&G 3.5 stars... It was very good, but I don't think it lives up to the hype. The raw selection was impressive, but our waitress really didn't suggest any of the oysters (and we asked her to). She simply said if we liked salty flavor, to choose from the new england oysters (when we asked her to recommend good, new england oysters). The fried oysters were delicious. The lobster roll was also really good, but a little on the small side compared to other restaurants with equal pricing. The lobster did have great flavor and the roll itself was really perfect. The fries, however, were incredibly disappointing; they were overcooked and had almost no flavor. They were too crunchy (there was no soft inside) and many of them looked burnt. Overall, I might go back but I'd rather wait for Island Creek, not B&G.
(3)Dexter Y.
Great service, bomb lobster rolls, and an intimate non-assuming atmosphere makes this 5 stars for me! I've tried lobster rolls at Neptunes and I personally prefer B&G more. The lobster roll @ B&G isn't drenched in butter, has a fresh zesty taste to it, and comes with what i consider among the best fries i've ever had. There are also more variety to the meal than @ Neptunes (pickles, coleslaw, etc) that kept me more than amused throughout the meal. If you want big hearty chunks of lobster bathed in butter, go to Neptunes. If you want a fresher and more flavorfull lobster roll come to B&G.
(5)Andrew B.
The oysters were maybe the best I've ever had. The lobster roll and butter poached lobster dinners were good, but not worth the $30 per plate. The dinner portions were small for the price tag. It is hands down the best fried oyster I've ever had. Only 1 bathroom down a narrow spiral staircase. This place has character.
(4)Melanie D.
From the moment we walked in, sans reservations, we were treated like royalty. The restaurant layout is tight but intimate. We were offered a beverage and enjoyed our wait time. The oysters our waiter selected for us were divine and our entrees (lobster roll and catfish) were delish. Honestly, I would pass on the catfish in the future, but the service was so good, I had to give 5 stars.
(5)Snuffles B.
I ate here for lunch and Neptune Oyster for dinner (yeah, you saw that right) and expected B&G to be blown out of the water, especially since No 9 didn't wow me - but I was wrong. My bad. First off, this place has one of the best outdoor patios in Boston. You might get a bit of a sunburn, but its worth it to eat in this little city oasis. The interior is cozy and has a cool vibe. The service is solid. Second, the food is tasty (and heart attack inducing): - Decent bread and good EVOO - Fried oysters - The best ones I've had in recent memory, juicy, beautifully presented, some tasty aioli. Get this. - Fried clams - Similarly yummy. Fries are solid too. - Yellowfin tuna club - A good tuna tartar, on what seems like 3 pieces of butter that has some bread in it, avocado and crispy bacon. A unique and tasty sandwich, I prefer it w/o the slightly overpowering bacon and wished it were less greasy, but its pretty damn good. - Broccoli rabe - A good, much needed contrast to the lipid-fest. My only minor gripes: - Out of lobster at 12PM? No bueno. - Battleship-style cramped spiral stairwell to get to bathroom. - Insane South End parking situation - Talk about overpriced - $40/person for lunch? Don't get me wrong, whining aside, this place exceeded expectations, and will give me a coronary for sure.
(4)A G.
The restaurant is tiny and has an open-air kitchen. I'd try to sit at the bar next time to watch the chefs in action. Ladies put your heels away; the restroom is at the bottom of a tiny spiral staircase. Onto the food.... We love oysters and we tried a dozen from East Coast spots our waitress recommended. Overall - not impressed. Most were very briny. Maybe I'm biased towards the West Coast /Australian rock oysters I grew up on, but next time I'd steer towards the sweeter tasting W.C. oysters. The "crab" salad to start was so disappointing. I don't want to have to pick through the salad to find the crab meat. Really just an expensive green salad. My lobster roll was tasty, as was the bread it was sandwiched in, but the density of the bread totally overwhelmed the lobster meat. I ended up pushing the roll to the side. I left thinking about the equally tasty lobster roll at Alive & Kicking Lobster that is 1/2 the price. First round of calamari was raw. We asked that it go back in the fryer for just a bit longer. Worried it was going to be rubbery, but it came back perfect. Kitchen was slammed with a large group's order. Although we were seated before them, our entrees took about 80 minutes to arrive. Soooo hungry at that point. Great calamari (the 2nd time around) isn't enough to bring me back.
(3)Lindsey G.
Went to dinner there with friends who were in town. We didn't have reservations and the place was packed but the menu looked amazing and they had a wonderful outdoor patio. We put in our names and they said about 30-45 minutes. They took our phone number so we could walk around since it was beautiful out, instead of having to wait around to be called. Such a great idea! We were called within 15 minutes, a table had opened up on their garden patio, perfect! Dinner was wonderful, lobster roll was amazing as everyone has been saying on here. Trust me, my friend and I split it so we could also get the shrimp cocktail. As much as the cocktail was great, I wish I had the roll to myself! We also had the oysters and they had a wonderful selection and were great. Our service was wonderful, the patio was beautiful, and I cannot wait to go back.
(5)Mikki N.
We were here last night after a girls night out event and I was not impressed. I ordered the Jonah Crab Salad and to be honest... it wasn't that great. It was a little on the bland side and the salad was somewhat soggy. I didn't get that crunch I was looking for. We also ordered the calamari and that was a bit on the soft. calamari should be crisp, no? The Scottish Salmon was just okay. The best thing about the night were the fries included in the Lobster roll. That we devoured in minutes. I really like the way the kitchen is displayed tho. You're able to see the chefs cooking, the service cleaning, and the cleanliness of the place.
(3)Jenessa C.
One of the best parts of this place is the outdoor patio - you'll love the textures they've incorporated into the decor outside. I noticed large heaters, so I suspect you can eat outside in the winter too. We went here for a snack of oyster & champagne tasting. We also ate the deviled eggs, which made for an excellent snack. to share.
(4)Don J.
Really don't understand why people rate this place so highly. It's an average restaurant that is exceptonally small with an equally small menu. I tried to book an 8 o'clock reservation on open table but it seems that they block out from 7.30-9.00 for online bookings as they didn't accept the reservation. When we did go there the restaurant was pretty much half full with nobody walking in after us at 7.15. A great way to make sure your restaurant doesn't make as much money as it should do. I tried one of all their oysters that they had for that evening and they were very good and the highlight of the evening. Nicely presented and very fresh.We shared the calimari which was tasty with a very good aoili with it. Problem with calimari is that even if it gets slightly cold it starts to become rubbery which happened with the last few bites on our plate. I had the blue Cod for my main and while the fish was cooked perfectly there was too much sauce and other items on the dish that just didn't match the cod. I never understand why chefs mess with good quality fish with dumping so many ingredients on top of it. We also had a lobster roll which was ok but not better than anything else we had in Boston. Dessert options were poor so we left after the main course, really average restaurant that I won't go back to when in Boston next.
(3)Jungmin L.
B&G is extremely over-rated. The quality of most of the ingredients is ok, but from grilled romaine tuna nicoise salad to fries, there is way too much grease and horrific underseasoning. I can't believe the amount of oil that was dripping from the grilled romaine leaves, and how much salt and pepper I had to add to that dish. The lobster roll is also a horrific disappointment. There's tiny curls of lobster and it tasted too fishy to be pleasant. I love the sweet, chewy/springy, ocean brininess of lobster and I love seafood for being seafood, but the tiny 28-dollar bun contained some lobster meat that simply did not justify the price. I would say it deserves a 15-dollar price tag. The bun itself isn't that great either - no buttery, brioche here. The seasoning was also very bland for the lobster roll...and the pickles are way too sweet. Why eat a bad lobster roll at B&G when you can get fantastic, succulent, briny, pleasant, sweet, fresh lobster roll at Neptune? The only thing that tasted good was the lobster BLT. If it were a mid-price establishment with bad food, I would give it two stars but because of the high prices the restaurant is only worth a star (if even).
(1)Lisa L.
Lobster Roll + BLT = Match Made in Heaven! After 3 long days of being in seminar classes/training, we were in need of an amazing meal. One of the girls we met in the training suggested B and G, and it was the best suggestion ever! Kristin G. and I sat outside, in the cutest patio area, sipping our wine and eating the most amazing food ever! We started off with a salad, and we each ordered a lobster roll - the regular one and the one with the BLT. Both were amazing, with the perfect mayo to lobster ratio and crunchy bread to die for! B and G, better than your average restaurant and the greatest lobster roll on the planet!
(5)Bridget M.
What a cool little spot this is! I visited Boston Memorial Day weekend with my boyfriend at the time and he did some extensive restaurant research beforehand. We were well prepared and made reservations here ahead of time. Thank god we did because I don't think I have ever eaten in a smaller restaurant (might have been waiting till 11pm to get a table)! They have a very small patio and a very narrow dining area. We got a prime table against the wall with a good view of the oyster schucking behind the open bar. It definitely has a hip vibe but is not the least bit pretentious. Neither of us are real oyster connaisseurs so we got a sampler platter, per our server's suggestion. It was fun tasting oysters from different parts of the country and comparing the differences (I learned I def prefer east coast oysters). Washing down our big platter of oysters with some nice refreshing white wine, we were both in heaven. We heard all about the lobster rolls in Boston so we knew this was the place to try them. So simple, yet so perfect. It was a party in my mouth, I could have eaten 5 more! I highly reccomend this place to anyone who lives in Boston or to anyone visiting the area! (Don't forget your reservations!)
(5)Rose D.
Food was ok but service sucked!! Server was rude and didn't want to be bothered by our questions. Word to the wise....you make a living on tips so here's a tip honey "be nice!". Snobs irritate me!
(2)Scott F.
I went to this restaurant and payed $30 for the swordfish. I have never, in 30 years of eating in a restaurant, received a smaller portion size. Here were the dimensions of the fish in inches- 1x1x1. So an inch long, an inch wide and an inch thick...for $30. Visualize about the size of a big sea scallop, that's it. No, this was not a lunch portion. Imagine going to the fish store and ordering 1/10 of a lb of swordfish. Say it costs $15 per lb, wholesale $10. So they served me a piece of fish that cost them a dollar for $30. It must be nice having nearly 3000% profit margins. It was completely insulting and unacceptable. I'm disappointed at myself for not turning the fish back. But I just decided that this would be a more fitting punishment for them- costing them hopefully more business in the future for the aggravation they put me through. The meal was tasty but as I said was so small that it couldn't compensate for the price. I really deserve a refund or an apology. But what I'd like even more than that is for companies like these to serve a quality product with reasonable portion sizes at a reasonable price. It's called doing business with grace and integrity... something this company obviously knows nothing about.
(1)Libby S.
I always enjoy coming here with my parents. The staff is always very pleasant and the food, delicious! So I don't really have any complaints- and if you have the wallet for it, I would recommend everyone to come and try it (lobster roll, chowder, and oysters are highly recommended). I would give this restaurant 5 stars, but I do feel that the portions are on the smaller side and the value would be greater if I left feeling a little more full for the money! But, still a great spot.
(4)Laura R.
If I could only describe my experience here in one word? "Impeccable." I went for lunch with the whole family, which can sometimes prove to be a challenge. 1 picky eater, 1 of the most indecisive people I know, and me (an impatient wine guzzler) doesn't always make for a pleasant meal. Our waitress was just lovely from the get go. Sweet, knowledgeable, candid-- but also low key. We started with wine-- a Merkelberg I think it was? All I remember was that it was by 2 attractive brothers (so said the waitress). It may have been a Gruner Veltliner but again, I could be wrong. I have to stop boozing so hard at lunch. What I do remember was that it paired perfectly with everything, was fruity, smooth and fresh. After that we ordered a few fresh oysters, which I did not partake in, the fried oysters and fried calamari-- both insanely good and cooked perfectly. For our meals we had a lobster roll, a lobster BLT, red snapper and I got the butter poached lobster tail. I'm mad about this. You know why? I don't think I'll find a lobster tail that good for a really, really long time-- unless I make the trip up to Boston just for some tail (ha ha). It's going to haunt my dreams. Sweet, buttery and sitting on a bed of fennel (one of my favorite vegetables) it was both light and rich at the same time. I tried a bite of everything, even after I gorged on the clams they sent over gratis (equally amazing), and each dish was phenomenal-- even the fries were awesome! I almost felt bad that this was our first meal of the weekend, I knew nothing else would really compare.
(5)Caroline C.
We came here for lunch while visiting Boston and on our walk to the restaurant we ran into Kristen Kish the Top Chef season 10 winner now at Menton. The food was excellent but I have to deduct a star for the unbearably slow service. It was a weekday lunch but we didn't get any love . My husband and I split a dozen oyster, a bowl of clam chowder and the lobster BLT. Out of all the chowders we sampled on our NE trip this version was by far my favorite. The lobster blt was a hit with me but my husband found the aoili too lemony for his liking. if we ever make it back to Boston I'd love to try another restaurant in the Barbara Lynch group.
(4)William M.
I had a great time at B&G. My server, Nicki, was very friendly and helpful. It was busy yet she never failed to be extremely attentive. She was also very knowledgeable (I heard her answering questions for the gentlemen next to me. Never an "um...," always an answer). The food was great, as I suspected, but the service really made this meal memorable.
(5)Doug R.
We visited B & G Oysters for a late lunch. I was able to make reservations electronically via my iPhone with no problem. When we got there (on foot) they had the reservation and seated us immediately (it was not very busy at that hour, on a Thurs). The staff was very friendly and our server was helpful with suggestions off the menu. We chose an array of oysters on the half shell from 5 locations. They were all fresh and enjoyable. The sauces were excellent and not overpowering. We also had a great beer to go along with lunch (Oskor Bluez), and plenty of fresh bread with olive oil. Overall, just what we were hoping for.
(5)Brian S.
Reading the reviews prior to my visit to B&G, I was pretty confused. People seemed to fall on two ends of the spectrum, and it was a bit tough to reconcile the two types of reviews. My goal here is to do just that. In a nutshell: I actually think both sets of reviews are accurate. What you order and your expectations coming in definitely will shape your experience. We sat outside, which was a good choice for what turned out to be a nice summer evening. A couple servers attended to us, and they were both polite and helpful. Drinks: the menu is a bit limited here. There are LOTS of pricey wine choices, but no mixed drinks, so be prepared. There was also only one beer on draft (Avery White Rascal) -- a fine beer, but I prefer having a little bit of choice in my selections. We started off with the oysters. B&G featured 12 types of oysters, each from a different area, ranging from Massachusetts to Washington to Nova Scotia. Ordering the sampler platter provides you with one oyster of each type. If you like oysters or are even so-so on them but want to try a variety, this is a very good way to do it. You can definitely tell the differences in flavor and texture, and at the very least, it's an interesting experience and a good conversation piece. Next up was our first course of appetizers. The corn beignets were outstanding. Light, fluffy, and flavorful, they were complemented with an outstanding mustard. While overpriced at $14, the taste was worth it (and really, let's be honest, just about any fine dining establishment in Boston will feature overpriced appetizers). While I loved the beignets, I can't say the same about the clam chowder. Chowder is one of those things I've loved since I was a kid and have enjoyed ordering both when I lived in New England and when I've taken trips there, and B&G's was iffy at best. That said, I can see how it might appeal to some people. The clams were chewy (they even got stuck in my teeth) and the broth lacked the rich creaminess that I like in a chowder. To each their own, but I wouldn't order it again. (In an odd twist, I had a much better chowder at an Irish pub the next afternoon.) For our main courses, I ordered the hotly-debated lobster roll while my girlfriend ordered the black sea bass. The sea bass was overall pretty good. The succotash made for a nice complement to the dish, and although the portion wasn't tremendously large, it was satisfactory for a main course. The fish was tender and well prepared. Now onto the lobster roll. If you're like me, you've read all these reviews and have no idea whether you should order it or not. My verdict: it was good but not spectacular. I mean, it's basically lobster on a bread roll. There is no "special sauce" that gives it some incredible or substantially different flavor from what you'll find elsewhere. Yes, the lobster was moist, tender, and tasty, but it was also $27, which is certainly on the high side. Would I order it again? Nope. Am I glad I tried it? Yup. Would I encourage others to try it? Only if this is the only place you expect to go where you might order a lobster roll; otherwise, I think you can find a comparable one elsewhere that's cheaper. So, for the long and short of it: pretty good food, but not amazing, and given that B&G is on par expense-wise with other fine dining establishments, that may be a bitter pill to swallow. If you're going for oysters, I think you'll be happy. If you're going for anything else, temper your expectations.
(3)Kristin J.
Came here for an early after work dinner with a friend. Service was friendly and prompt; our raw bar orders came out quickly, and soon after we finished our oysters and clams, our entrees came out. We both ordered a variety of oysters and a cherrystones, I had the lobster roll and she had the blue cod. We loved the oysters (they change nightly or weekly, not sure), the cherrystones (one of them was so big it was really hard to eat), and the french fries that came with my lobster roll (somehow they were somewhat sweet in flavor, and perfectly crispy). My dining companion liked her fish, but (I know I am going against popular opinion here) I was disappointed in the lobster roll. The meat was a little overcooked (a tad tough), and there needed to be something else to enhance the natural sweetness of the lobster meat- maybe some more salt, a touch more mayo, or a little butter. We both agreed next time to spend our money on oysters and french fries and skip the entrees.
(3)Anna L.
this place was right around the corner of where we were staying so we walked on over here not expecting much. I was surprised because this place was such a cute little spot. We ordered half dozen oysters, ate them and they were so good and fresh, we ordered another half dozen. We also had clam chowder and the cod in pea sauce. clam chowder was delicious with a hint of bacon and this spicy chip puff on top. It was so delicious! The cod was moist and light and flaky. the vegetables underneath and the pea sauce really made the dish. Im so glad we decided to come here!
(5)Christina G.
Nice atmosphere and decent service, but otherwise nothing really stand out for me. I came here for a few drinks and appetizers. We tried some raw bar and fried calamari and both were just standard. For the price we paid I really was hoping for a little more. Much more actually.
(3)Whitney R.
Although I've passed by B&G multiple times over the past few years, I never got a chance to try it out. I met up with a friend there last night, and was immediately impressed by the service as well as the presentation and quality of dishes. Our server, Mark, was super attentive and absolutely wonderful. Out of a list of about 20 types of raw oysters (from MA, WA, PEI, and NS), he made great recommendations for me, based on my very limited knowledge and experience. We also got an order of fried calamari ($14; my favorite!) and romaine wedge salad ($14), as well as another dish of salmon on a bed of pureed beans and coriander (I have no idea what it was- another recommendation!). Everything was fantastic. I'll definitely be heading back... payday can't come soon enough!
(5)Stephen L.
Let's see here, I recently came here this past Sunday. I really like the place here, it looks like a hot spot here. The food was delicious, but the service was horrendous. First of all, we came in, got seated promptly. From there, things just went down hill. Our server seemed to lack experience and was not very well mannered. He didn't take our orders until 20 minutes after we got seated. It took another 15 minutes to serve the food, which I didn't really mind, but the when it was done, my food was waiting to get served. I anxiously looked at my plate as it was sitting at the kitchen as I watch my server goofing off in the back with the bus boy and a few of the kitchen staff. He came to serve it after 10 minutes later. I will admit, the food was absolutely delicious. I had the Atlantic Blue Cod and my GF had the Roasted mussels. We both really liked what we had. I ran out of water, but my water did not get refilled once during the course of dinner. In fact, it just seemed like the waiter was more concern with goofing off then actually serving his customers. My other complaint would be they don't serve mimosas, I understand that they don't have a full liquor license, but isn't just champagne and orange juice? Over all, I'd give it a 2.5 star. The food was absolutely fantastic, but the service really left a sour taste in my mouth. I hope next time we come, the server will be better trained and well mannered. "Aight yo?"
(2)christine c.
Stopped in for some of the dollar "beers and bivalves." They featured a Virginia oyster which was actually quite tasty, with all the fixings and such, it was very good. It was also pretty neat to see them prep everything from my seat at the bar. The Schaffer beer they had at $1, which was a-O.K. for a cheap night. My friend and I split the tuna club which had a lemon pepper aioli, lettuce, tomato, bacon, avacado and diced raw tuna on buttered toast with some slaw, pickles and fries. It was a little steep at $18, but it was pretty huge. We split it so it was perfect for a snack with our oysters. The place is really cute and small and has a wonderful little patio off the back. Definitely fresh and a huge selection of oysters. Try it out first on a Monday or Tuesday and get their dollar-oysters deal, especially if you're not a huge oyster fan, it's worth trying out.
(3)Ken R.
I almost didn't go because of all the recent negative reviews, but I'm glad I did. Good oysters--not the very best I've had, but still a treat--solid wine list, chic ambience, and everything out of the kitchen was excellent (in addition to oysters I tried the pea shoot salad and stuffed calamari). Add it all up and it was an awesome evening. Still, I have to dock a star because of the prices and the kitchen's reckless disregard for arterial health. I admit, the lobster roll is devilishly appealing, but I was scared off by what must have been at least 1500 calories of fries and butter that accompanies it--well beyond the expensive and decadent lobster rolls I've ordered in the past.
(4)Charlotte B.
Now I see what all the "hype" surrounding B&G is all about. This place is good, but not the best seafood around. The restaurant is very small, so now I understand why it takes awhile to get a reservation. We had one on a Tuesday night and when we got there the place was packed. It's pretty small, but we were sat right away at a bar-type table, there were 4 of us and it was definitely a table that in another spot would have sat 2. If you're a group larger than four I have NO IDEA how you are going to eat here. There was one table for 6, but that was the biggest. The food was great, super fresh oysters, wonderful seared tuna, and lobster gnocchi that was rich, buttery and didn't skimp on the lobster. The $27 lobster roll and fries looked amazing, but not anything you can't get elsewhere for a bit less, and I didn't try the clam chowder, but $14 seems a little steep. All in all great food, high prices. It's fun every once in awhile, but if you really want the basics like oysters, chowder and lobster rolls, you're better off at Legal, Sail Loft, or even Summer Shack.
(3)Audrey K.
This place was such a treat and I'm so glad me and the boy made our way here this past weekend. Though there were table outdoors, we wanted to sit inside and get a view of the bustling kitchen. It eventually got quite noisy (people talking, not the chefs - they seemed to know what they were doing well and never really broke the silence) with awkward pop music playing, but regardless... the food - YUM! Started off with an assortment of raw oysters, which the shucking person shucks with just a latex glove?! Seriously?! Deeelicious. Moved onto the garlic mussels and the lobster roll. The garlic mussels won it, hands down. They are cooked so perfect, and the tomato-y broth is amazing. I could dip bread, pour over rice, and wash my face with it. The lobster roll was underwhelming - I am no expert on this food, so I will keep my mouth shut. Apparently B&G has the most amazing ones ever.. I'll leave that part up to the credible lobster lovers. The banana pudding dessert may have been the best part of our dinner - as stated by boy. It was SO good, and so tiny, and so so good.
(4)A W.
Two words: Barbara Lynch. (I highly recommend the hake- incredibly fresh and delicious)
(4)Saba N.
I headed to B&G oysters for restaurant week - and had no idea what to expect. I worship Barbara Lynch, so I had a feeling it would be a treat, but there was some mixed reviews on yelp which gave me doubts. Well, the verdict is in & I am happy to report that I enjoyed my meal there. I liked everything I ate. That being said, there was nothing on the restaurant week menu that I truly loved - but that's part of the game with restaurant week. It's never as good as the regular menu. We ordered the calamari off the everyday menu, which I can honestly say was better than any part of my restaurant week meal. It's a great spot though, super cozy and I loved the open kitchen.. I just wasn't blown away by the food. I will definitely have to come back and re-review.
(3)Marina B.
My friend from California was visiting and had been told that she had to try B&G Oyster. Having never been, I tagged along. It's a little cramped and the high chairs and tables are not the most comfortable to sit in (especially if anyone in your party is elderly or otherwise disabled). I enjoyed that the kitchen was right out front, and you could see them cooking you food. However, the waitress hardly ever came by, and seemed bothered whenever her attention was requested. The mussels I got were delicious, but the crabmeat sandwich I got was dry and rather tasteless. I was also shocked at the prices, considering the laid back atmosphere. The bill for two appetizers and two entrees was $95, which was absolutely not worth it. Boston has tons of restaurants, and so I would not recommend they bother wasting their time here. Find something more worth your time and money.
(2)Anne W.
First time to the South End.. very trendy by night. The tables on the street are packed with people. The place is like a diner.. open kitchen.. with a limited menu. A few categories.. appetizers, specialties, entrees, lobster, and desserts. Flat rate price for each category except specialities. Amazing selection of oysters. I do love the cute little place cards. Do what I did... get six different ones and you can really taste the difference. An oyster is not just an oyster n'est-ce pas? I love the buttery tasting ones from DC and Mass. Yummy yummy in my tummy... I had the steamed clams. I love clams but I wasn't crazy about the tomato sauce base they had. Tried the monkfish wrapped in proscieutto. Good.. but a little small. Tiramisu didn't quite cut it either. It was like a cream in a cup. Where are my lady fingers? Like I said.. raw oysters are yummy yummy... mmmm...
(3)Bob S.
We always thought that you could walk in and sit at the bar if there were empty seats. Tonight, we arrived at 8:30 pm and there were at least 5 empty seats at the bar, but were told that "they were taken." We left.
(1)Courtney K.
I have been spoiled. Living in Arizona, we don't get very fresh seafood, especially oysters. We ordered a dozen oysters (not sure which ones.) They were medium size, plump and so so divine. We also ordered a lobster roll to share and it was super tasty. Not drenched in mayo and the roll was tender on the inside and crunchy on the outside. We ordered a great french chard that went perfectly with them as well! The server was very attentive without being overbearing. Will be back next time I am in Boston!
(4)Tara C.
This review is for the lobster roll - not the oysters. It's slightly better than Legal Seafood but come on people. The best lobster roll ever? I feel bad for you if that is the best you've ever had. If you like paying more for less then by all means go here. My issues with this place: 1. atmosphere - snobby, no personality. My husband and I walked in for lunch during the week and immediately everyone was staring at us. We walked to the bar area to have a seat and they looked at us like we were aliens. 2. The lobster roll. We do not mind paying a lot ($27) for something good but it is a very small lobster roll with very small pieces of lobster. It just didn't have a good flavor. The good? The french fries were excellent! My advice - go to Neptune for lobster rolls. Much better atmosphere, the $25 lobster roll is huge and it has large chunks of flavorful lobster.
(2)Jeremy C.
Went there last friday for dinner with the lady. We had 7:30 reservations, i arrived nearly 15 minutes early. The rush had yet to come so they sat me right in front of the open kitchen. If you like watching the action, make sure to ask for good seats when booking your reservation. Service started kinda slow, as it took 5 minutes for a waiter to come by, and then another 8 minutes until my drink came. The menu is concise and focused. Eventually, my lady arrived, and we were on our way to enjoying dinner. I appreciate the current list of oysters and the waiters knowledge of them. I ordered a mixed half dozen. they were presented nicely and shucked well. We ordered the calamari as well for an app, and both knew we were trying the lobster roll that everyone on here talks about. Again, unfortunately, the service was a little slow on drinks. I had ordered a beer when i was first seated, but hoped to have wine with dinner. Since we ordered dinner with our apps, and a runner brought out all of our food, we didn't end up seeing our waiter until midway through our meal. At that point, my desire for wine had dwindled. Mixed feelings on this, it certainly was busy, but there's like 20 tables, so i'm not quite sure why he went MIA. His loss i suppose. The lobster roll was pretty good. it looks small, but its actually the perfect size. The lobster is dressed perfectly. and the bun was buttered and delicious. The fries were standard. The one thing i didn't get was the slaw....it just seemed to be there for a little more color on the dish. All in all I would go again just for the lobster roll. Hopefully i can have a few more drinks while i'm there!
(3)David K.
one of the top 3 places in Boston for oysters. The lobster BLT is also amazing. I just wish this place were bigger.
(5)Samantha J.
Very very tasty oysters! We were on a 3-days trip and ate here twice! The fried calamari was soft and breaded perfectly. The lobster roll was overflowing with lobster chunks. The restaurant is tiny, but the staff is very kind. The bar is great if you want to see the chef in action. Book way in advance though as they are always fully booked. The selection of desserts is a bit disappointing as there weren't a lot of choices.
(4)Katherine L.
We had a reservation for a Friday night -- and phew! We heard the hostess telling other folks that the wait would be an hour to an hour and a half. Yikes. Service was on the slow side, but very friendly and helpful. I split a lobster roll and a lobster BLT with my brother. The lobster roll was on the small side (it took him two bites to finish his half) but pretty good. Admittedly, I'm no connoisseur of lobster rolls. The lobster BLT was much more filling and also quite good. We were a little worried about two things -- too much mayo and/or not enough lobster. Neither was a problem.
(4)Jen F.
Reservations: it was Friday night and we didn't make any! So we came over and they were of course full but we were able to put down our phone number and they called us when there were two seats available at the bar. Next time I would call ahead so we could sit in the courtyard but it was really fun watching them make all the food. Service was excellent. Our waiter was attentive and made great picks for the night. Everyone here looked clean and presented themselves well. Now the big part: food. I had never eaten oysters before and they were incredible. It still scares me a bit thinking about it, but I loved them. The oysters were super fresh and they were cutting them there as you ordered. They had probably ten oysters of the day to try a la carte and the sauce was a perfect match. It all tasted so crisp and fresh. We also got four pieces of the shrimp cocktail, which was large and fresh but not necessarily worth the high price of each a la carte. They had excellent cocktail sauce too (we were eating it alone on a fork it was so good). We then moved on to the next course which was clam chowder and tuna nicoise. I haven't eaten clam chowder in YEARS and I was a bit wary but this was really amazing. Also important to note that this may have been the richest thing we ate tonight. The tuna nicoise was great. Totally different presentation than expected. Don't think I would order it again though with the other great looking salads they offer, well, unless they added a second quail egg. For dinner we ordered the lobster roll (of course) and the skate wing. Both of which we had never had before. They exceeded our expectations. I would definitely get them both again. The skate wing was cooked perfectly and I think it is now my favorite white fish. Note: the fries here are really great. Spiced well, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Lastly, banana compote and excellent coffee for dessert. We were so full by then the only place we could go was back to the hotel. I'd come back here anytime and do it again though!
(5)Katie S.
I was in Boston for 24 hours and my trusted friend picked this place for some great New England seafood. We split a dozen oysters which were absolutely fantastic. I was a little bummed to hear this place only serves wine and beer. For me, there's nothing better than a dirty martini and fresh oysters - oh, well. For my entree, I had the lobster tail with fries. It's a pretty big roll and it was very good. However, I think Luke's lobster in NYC has ruined lobster rolls for me everywhere else because nothing can compare. Yes, that's right, a lobster "shack" in NYC has better lobster rolls. B and G's was a bit to "dressed" for me. I prefer the almost whole lobster chunks with minimal mayo and seasoning. My friend had the butter poached lobster tail for $27. It was the smallest lobster tail I've ever seen. He said it was absolutely delicious, but totally not worth $27 - he was still hungry. I'd come back and do the lobster roll and oysters again. It was all very delicious, but Luke's is better. Great fries!
(4)Sara S.
I've been to B&G Oysters in the past, but wasn't a Yelper nor was I an oyster eater, so I didn't think I had enough info to write an accurate review. However, I just came back from a meal there and ate oysters for the first time and took impecable notes of my dining experience- so here we go. First of all, the whole lobster roll "do they or don't they" serve the lobster roll with or without mayonaisse. Well, it seems as though it's a bit of a luck and timing thing. I asked for the lobster roll without mayonnaise. The waitress went and checked in the back, and they were able to do it. Apparently, they hadn't made the lobster roll mix completely yet, and were able to salvage some non-mayo-ed lobster for me. So, if you NEED your lobster roll to be without mayo, I suggest going earlier in the night when they are preparing for the evening ahead (I got there at 6:30). We were served bread with olive oil. The bread was not warm, and the olive oil was plain olive oil. I prefer when they sprinkle some herbs, pepper, or cheese in it to spice it up a bit. Just a little effort and extra taste makes a big difference. The bread itself was a little hard and chewy. I've never had oysters before so I asked for four of their reccomendation. They gave me one from each "region"- Massachusetts, Canada, Washington, and one other place. My friend also got oysters. He said they were very good and fresh, but I wasn't blown away. Perhaps I'm not an oyster person, but the only one that tasted like anything was the Washington oyster. Apparently the ones on the West Coast are larger and have more flavor. If I were to go back, I'd order West Coast oysters only. The cocktail sauce was awesome, though. Very strong horseradish flavor. They also had a separate house vinaigrette sauce for the oysters with a Prosecco based. Good, but would have been better as a salad dressing! I had the Lobster Roll without mayonnaise, and substituted the fries with a side salad. The salad was fine, and the lobster itself was good. Not great... in fact, it was pretty mushy. It was a generous portion and flavorful though, and I skipped the roll (seriously tasted like a hot dog bun from the grocery store, NOT toasted or warmed which is annoying) and dipped the lobster in butter. My friend got the Lobster BLT. The sandwich itself was a mess, and he picked out the lobster and veggies, skipped the bread and bacon. I munched a little on the fries. They were good. Overall, it was a nice dining experience, but overrated and too expensive. I understand that the atmosphere is chic, it's a place to be seen, and it's an independent restaurant. However, I could have gotten something better or at least comparable at Legal Seafoods and probably had better service (our waitress wasn't great). Eff the "scene" and the "South End". First and foremost, I care about my food and the value for my dollar. Secondly, the service. Oh and PS. The music was downright strange- like weird P.Diddy and Destiny's Child-style stuff. I'll pass on that. PPS- If I could, I'd give it 3.5 stars, but it doesn't deserve the roundup.
(3)Ina C.
B & G: South End Hopping stop #2. I love... - the little cards that tell you what oysters they're serving that day. - the fact that the oyster selection is different all the time! - being able to see into every crevice of the kitchen because it's just right there in front of you! - the white boy with dreadlocks who shucked our oysters. - the beautiful patio. - the muscadine wine that our server recommended. - raw oysters. YUM-ME. - B & G's!
(4)Ngoc F.
I have read so many reviews on the lobster roll, so obviously I ordered the lobster roll. It ended up being really flavorless and overpriced. Why did I make that 4 hour drive?? I should have made a detour and went to the Cape!! Oysters were good and the fries were crispy to perfection. This restaurant is checked off and on to the next lobster roll.
(3)Marie A.
it hurt to leave this place. the patio was so lovely, like someone's backyard. the staff so friendly and kind... from host to the cook i ran into as i walked down the spiral staircase to the restroom. our server knew her menu and showed no annoyance as we asked question after question. she described a dish as "sunshine" and i just knew to order it. the presentation was beautiful, flavors fresh, wine list impeccable. my only complaint and it seems silly, is the lobster roll was a little bland. but, really, that's an inconsequential detail. i live on an opposite coastline, but i will be recommending B & G to all.
(4)yana v.
Walking into this basement establishment I didn't know what to expect in terms of decor. Looking threw the windows as you walk by it doesn't seem like much. I was pleasantly surprised with the contemporary decor, dim lighting, and cozy space. Was a bit confused since we couldn't find the hostess stand, which turned out to be at the other end of the floor. When I called for reservations the hostess asked if we had a preference for inside or patio (i couldn't imagine where in the world that patio would be in this tight South End space). Passing threw the door in the back, leading to a very pleasant glass covered entrance to the below street level patio that's surrounded by a stone wall on all sides. Having a fairly large oyster selection and myself not being a oyster connoisseur, the waitress was very helpful in describing what the different oysters where. When we got our selection of 5 different types of oysters we also got a little card telling us which oysters were which. This turned into an oyster tasting session, learning what kind of oysters come from what part of the country. Some are saltier then others, some larger, some smaller, creamer, clearer. I never expected to get such a nice lesson going out to dinner. I do have to say that this was the most pleasant part of the dinner and I would definitely come here any day if not for the dinner then for the oyster experience for sure! The entrees themselves where all good, but very small portions. It was enough for me, but others in my party were left desiring more. My tuna was cooked perfectly and very interestingly seasoned with an olive sauce (this took me a minute to figure out). I haven't seen this combo before but if you like olives and tuna then it's definitely worth a try. Others seemed to be happy with their entree choices, but our thoughts kept coming back to our delicious oyster experience. The prices are a little high, but over all a good experience and a convenient location since once you're done with dinner you can jet across the street to Beehive or down the street to 28 Degrees for cocktails. Although if you're valeting tell the nice boy that you're going across the street since apparently it's cheaper then when you're going to B & G oysters.
(3)Taylor H.
My wife and I spent a great afternoon at B&G's and tried a wide number of items on the menu. My favorite oysters were the Bristol Bay but I also tried the Island Creek and Conway Royale.
(4)Jules K.
I didn't have a single oyster or a lobster roll at B&G. Just bucking the trend I guess. But after a long weekend of moving daughter Olivia into BU we were looking for a quality meal and B&G delivered. Period. The room is down from the street yet the tile/open kitchen feel is intimate and not cramped. The calamari appetizer was huge perfectly tender fried to perfection and...oversalted. Our fish courses showed the fine hand of the chef, perfectly cooked and well balanced plates. B&G lives up to its reputation.
(4)Wayne D.
I love the way an oyster feels when I pop it onto my tounge. Cool and slimy, like a mouth full of ..... Okay folks, get your mind out of the gutter! This weekend I sat at the bar of B&G Oysters on Tremont street and I ordered a glass of Pinot Noir. The world then stopped. At least the restaurant did when they saw my waitress bring over a half dozen Kamata Bay Oysters sitting in an ice bath. "Red wine with Oysters?" some guy asked me sitting to my left. "Yeah" I replied rather sarcastically as I downed a Katama and washed it with a sip of beautiful pinot noir from Napa. "It's not so bad ya know" I continued. Seared tuna with tarbais beans, swiss chard, Meyer lemon salsa was good but slightly dry and overdone. fried ricotta Beignets wth my own bowl of chocolate dipping sauce did me in with a glass of sparkling prosecco. The Beignets were good, not great. They didn't have a lot of flavor but the presentation was great. Service was ... well, lacking. The hostess practically served me as the waitstaff scurried around the room. It was never clear who my server was. Barbara would have not been pleased with the service on this night. I didn't even see a manager around the entire evening to help expedite service. I would go again for sure though. Pinot Noir anyone?
(4)Ben Z.
B&G Oysters is a treat for seafood fans--especially lovers of the raw bar. They normally have an excellent selection of oysters and the fried clams and lobster dishes are some of the best around. The room is in sunken grotto, and the cool blue tiling and dark lighting give it sleek and minimalist nautical feel. The kitchen is completely open and situated behind the bar. Servers are friendly and knowledgeable. If you're not a oyster expert, I recommend asking the servers for their suggestions. Oyster quality varies on a seemingly daily basis and the waiters seem to know what's good at the time. I've never had a B&G oyster I didn't love. If you're still hungry after oysters entrees range from fried foods to lobster to fresh fish. My favorites are the lobster roll and the fried clam plate...always cooked to perfection and truly tasty. You should know, however, that B&G ranks as one of the most over-priced restaurants in the South End, if not all of Boston. As good as the food is, it's hard to stomach paying $30 for a lobster roll. The wines by the glass are also mediocre and overpriced. All in all, a solid four star.
(4)erik s.
After having been a devoted B&G Oyster's fan for years I must confess my new found preference for Neptune. Several times this summer I've had the opportunity to dine at Neptune and become accustomed to their way of doing things and now I apparently cannot go back to B&G. Don't get me wrong, B&G is good but Neptune is vastly better. Last night I dined at B&G and things were off by my new Neptune standards: service was friendly, but slow; several of my oysters weren't fully released from their shells and contained more than the usual amounts of shell chips and ice from the bed of ice that they are served on; my lobster roll was small by Neptune standards, its bun was wet and squished flat like it was prepared many hours earlier then placed on the bottom a heavy stack of items in the refrigerator; lastly B&G charges more for so much less. Do yourself a favor eat at Neptune Oyster!
(3)Mia D.
I wish I could give different ratings for different things...so here goes. First - $16 for valet parking? Really? We sat outside which was quite lovely even with a few tree droppings on our table. Didn't like that we couldn't push our bench closer to the table (since it is all one piece) so I felt like I was eating quite far away from the table, not too comfy. Our server was decent - although I wasn't quite sure she knew enough about oysters or the wine for my tastes. She was nice enough to give us plenty of time to order. So, order we did...we got champagne by the glass to go with our oysters. Ordered a dozen, a few Island Creeks (my fav), some from Nova Scotia (tasty) and some from Washington (meh). Very tasty. But when we tried to get recommendations from our server, she couldn't really describe them by flavor but only by what was most popular. Our first bottle of wine was not good - again her recommendation after hearing we were after a Pinot Grigio-like wine. The wine she brought out was just not good. We all felt very uncomfortable with the process (I've never sent a wine back before!) and I think she could have solved it by saying, hey if you don't like it, no problem, let me bring you something else, but she stood there - just as awkward as we were! Ugh...finally we told her, we didn't want it, so she brought us something else (again by saying, it's very popular) and that one was fine. I think a little more training in wines would be good for the staff. The food - I got the fried artichoke - not good! I was expecting small artichokes that were fried whole (like in Italy, sooo delicious!) - instead it was a medium regular sized artichoke that you couldn't eat the leaves of - they were burnt and not edible! I put one in my mouth and chewed...and chewed...and chewed. Finally I had to spit it out. I ended up just eating the heart which was drenched in some sort of mayo like sauce - yuck. The main course was much better - I shared the stuffed lobster with my friend and the lobster was delicious, the "stuffed" part was at the top of the lobster, so not really part of the dish, seemed like just an afterthought. The mac & cheese was delicious. We skipped dessert to go to Picco (read review), so can't comment on that. What I liked - the oysters were great, I loved the ambience of the place, I think I just ordered the wrong things. My friend had the soft shell crab app which she said was delicious. I'll be back, but maybe just for some oysters and champagne...
(4)Chris M.
It is no Neptune Oyster. Overpriced and a bit pretentious.
(2)Jaime M.
Food is definitely good, although not particularly memorable..Definitely great oysters! Not a huge fan of the decor-- felt a little cheap. Service was prompt & friendly. I would go back, but I'm not running...
(3)Nick W.
Good oysters but pasta tasted like canned Mac and cheese . Overall pretty good place for lunch but the food sometimes does not deliver. The service is good though and I would go back (but I would not get pasta again!). Overall if you want oysters and your in the area B&G is a great place to get your fix.
(4)Laura M.
AMAZING! Definitely come to have at the very least a delicious glass of white wine and some oysters outside on their patio! Such a cute atmosphere and the food is delectable! B&G was on my list of places to go before I officially leave Boston and I really wish I had come here sooner (but am kind of glad I didn't because I would have a lot less in my savings account). My boyfriend and I sat outside on the patio but the inside is equally as amazing and the atmosphere is very casual chic. Seeing as this is an Oyster Bar, we ordered half a dozen oysters from their vast selection (2 from Island Creek, MA, 2 from British Columbia, and 2 from Washington State). I am partial to West Coast Oysters as I think they are less briny and have more of a citrus flavor so the Washington State were my favorite. I had a delicious glass of White Wine from the Loire, which paired amazingly with the oysters. For dinner, I ordered the Tuna, which was rare and amazing; my boyfriend had the soft shell crab, slightly fried and very delicious! We ordered the semi-freddo for dessert. I wasn't a huge fan and probably would not order it again. Other than dessert, everything was absolutely amazing! I recommend making a reservation, as it gets very crowded (we came on a Friday night at 9:30 and there was still a 30 min wait!)!
(5)Dee N.
THE ABSOLUTE BEST OYSTERS IN THE CITY! And...everything else on the menu. I've been there at least a dozen times and tried the entire menu, lunch and dinner, and everything is absolutely delicious, beautifully presented, the freshest ingredients. People rave about Neptune Oyster....but hands down, B & G IS FAR SUPERIOR. They've got a great formula. You won't be disappointed.
(5)Andy A.
Excellent food and good service. Great oysters and good choice. Nice people and not too loud when I was there. Well worth a visit.
(5)Lee S.
went here with no reservations on a tuesday and had to wait 45 minutes but was worth it. food is fresh and good and nice presentation. good service. may be a little overpriced for the portion sizes but other then that a good restaurant
(4)Mark W.
Small place that offers a huge food experience. Of course get the oysters to start you can choose from over a dozen. The main courses are great and priced right. The service is always excellent. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
(5)Heidi E.
Stopped in for dinner on a Monday night with a friend. The place was hoppin! Had 6 awesome fresh oysters, mixed...Wellfleets, little creek and some other variety from Washington state. The best part came next: seared scallop special with some sort of honey soy reduction, topped with a mix of red grapefruit, shaved fennel, snow peas cut on the bias, sea salt, purple bean sprouts (?) and a few other beautiful leafy toppings that I couldn't identify. Perfectly cooked, perfectly presented. The pinot gris from Alsace was also very good. B&G was a bit pricey, but a real taste adventure all around. They aren't open every day. Check out the website for more information.
(5)Mihir P.
I had heard so much hype about the Lobster BLT so I decided to go. The restaurant is small and diner-like. The best way I can describe the space is that it feels like you are in a large public bathroom. You know those with small dotted tiles on the floor and walls. But its clean so don't worry. I like the open kitchen and how those sitting at the bar can see the action. I got the lobster BLT which was generous and fresh. It was more of a lobster salad roll than a true lobster roll. Unfortunately the traces of red bell pepper overtook the delicate flavor of the lobster and the bacon was hard. There was too much mayo on it as well. I thought it was stupid to serve the roll with potato chips and not fries. I asked to sub fries and they charged me extra which I think is tacky. It wasn't worth it because the fries were way too greasy with tiny puddles of oil nestled into the grooves of the potatoes. I also hate Tabasco. Cholula is so much better. When will chefs learn?????
(2)Jo B.
At B & G last night with 5 friends for anniversary dinner. We were promptly seating at our reservation time. Waitress was attentive enough and knowledgeable about the food. We had a good time, but have a few comments. Food was all fresh, well prepared, oysters were a stand-out and the clam chowder was an inventive take on the usual thick soup. ONe friend was comped dinner due to an extra long wait for his entree - nice touch and appreciated. The lobster roll was ok - small but filling with good fries and especially liked the pickles. It was good, but for $27.00 I expected more. Other friends loved the cod entree. Another friend said the fried clams were good, but you have to feel comfortable paying the price for an unremarkable dish. We had a cozy table right overlooking the oyster prep station and it was fun to watch. Cons - very small pouring of wine for $12 per glass. Restaurant was cold, music from the cheap speakers over our head sounded bad. Overpriced. Overall a good meal, but for $125.00 per couple (a few wines and beers, no dessert and not including valet), this is a once a year place at best for me.
(3)Jewel A.
B&G Oysters is fantastic! So fantastic, that my first dinner there inspired me to join yelp and write this review. Hopefully, this will be the first of many! They have a great and extensive selection of oysters (the best that I've seen and tasted in Boston so far) from both the east and west coast. We sat at the bar, which doesn't require reservations, to get a closeup view of the oyster shucking and dinner making. Our waitress was attentive and helpful with wine pairings and oyster insight. If you want a table I would recommend making a reservation, or getting there earlier in the evening (before 7) to beat the dinner rush. Also looks like there's outdoor seating when the weather is nice. In addition to the oyster sampler platter, my boyfriend and I split the Norwegian Salmon with fregola sarda, fennel & citrus salad, which was refreshing and delicious. It was a great combination of flavors and textures. Initially I was concerned that the citrus salad might overpower the dish, but the orange and grapefruit bits were the perfect accent to the fennel. Best of all, for dessert we savored the panna cotta. Not many restaurants in the area serve panna cotta...and not many make it this great! From beginning to end, our meal was stunning. Their panna cotta was what truly made me fall in LOVE with B&G! I can't wait to try other dishes. Overall, if you want a romantic yet fun dinner with a quaint small restaurant feel and love seafood, then B&G is your spot! Also great to dine with a group of friends (who like seafood, of course).
(5)Steven S.
This review covers two restaurants, namely B&G Oysters and Neptune Oysters, and only one dish at each of these restaurants, namely their lobster rolls. Why, my dear friends, would I go to these two places with the sole purpose of trying out their respective takes on this classic New England dish? Because it's a crap-load of lobster on a bun... that's why. With that said, the styles of these two lobster rolls are completely different: warm and buttery vs. cold and mayonnaise-y. Obviously, the cold version is the "classic" lobster roll, and there has been a plethora of posts about how a warm roll is akin to going to the Democratic National Convention and proclaiming that George Bush Jr. is the best president ever. I have never been a traditionalist, so I am reviewing these dishes for what they are. First the similarities: 1. You get a lot of lobster... not just enough to fill the bun, but enough to REQUIRE eating a good number of fork-fulls before picking the damn thing up and trying to take a bite out of it. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way, and ended up spilling about a tail's-worth of lobster meat onto my plate when I tried to take a bite from the get-go. 2. Each goes really well with a beer, preferably something that can stand up to the natural butteriness of the lobster meat. I suppose you could get a nice acidic white, but a nice New England draught (Geary's Winter Ale at Neptune and Tremont Ale at B&G) seemed like the perfect accompaniment to me. Differences: 1. B&G: cold lobster in a light aioli with lemon and chives sprinkled on top. The lemon gave the dish the perfect amount of acid to balance the lobster. Not really mayonnaise-y at all. Lobster chunks broken up to just the right size so when you take a bite out of the roll, you don't have to chew through a piece of lobster or get an overly large piece in your mouth. 2. Neptune: warm lobster in butter on a toasted brioche bun. The warmth allowed me to fully enjoy all the natural (and added) butteriness of the lobster. Often times large chunks of lobster that were obviously crab or tail meat. While a bit harder to eat, the large chunks gave me the impression that there was some dude in the back who cracked open a fresh lobster, chopped it up a bit, put it in the bun and splash some butter on it. The service in each place was great. The decor was a bit different, with Neptune sporting marble tables and an old-school oyster bar feel, while B&G had a more modern touch with a nice open kitchen in the middle of the restaurant where you can watch them do their magic. Both of these places are must-go's, even if you only like lobster a wee little bit. I'll be back next time I'm in town, but I think I'll bring some cholesterol-lower medications just in case...
(4)Mardget P.
What a great place to spend a beautiful New England summer weekend afternoon. The patio is fantastic--quiet, shady, and private. Wonderfully knowledgeable server who wisely steered us to Deer Creek oysters--like little pats of butter, so good! Also loved the delicious sparkling wine from Burgundy and the fried oyster appetizer (dreaming about the tartar-like sauce). Not sure who G is, but B really, really knows her stuff.
(4)D S.
Yesterday I had an oyster craving, a really serious one. Not only did I want oysters, but I wanted the perfect oyster eating atmosphere: elegant yet comfortable, clean, inviting and sexy. I found this at B&G Oysters! Sitting at the bar at B&G is like going to a super classy theme park dedicated to oysters, and every time you try a different type of mouth watering mollusk it is like riding another delightfully thrilling ride. The glittering mounds of oysters waiting to be shucked stare at you from behind the bar counter, begging you to order more and more. The tiny Oregon Kumamoto are buttery, sweet, salty and inappropriately delicious. None of these oysters need anything more than a hint of lemon to help them shine. I highly recommend this place to any and everyone. It is really a gift to have a restaurant like this at our fingertips.
(5)S. M. S.
All-star brilliant. Perfect way to enjoy Boston's best summer flavors.
(5)Emily C.
I love their oysters. Honestly insanely good. However, I fell down their horrible spiral staircase and when I told my waiter that it was super slippery and someone should wash it so nobody else fell, he acted like it was nothing. Also, it was wicked expensive. Good, but expensive.
(3)Chris C.
While I've only had selections of oysters and the lobster BLT here, either of these items alone more than warrant a five star rating. Their oyster selection is very impressive, with approximately 20 different types of oysters to choose from. As for the lobster BLT, let go now of any fears you might have about the amount of actual lobster meat you'll get. The sandwich is loaded, and delicious. Also, given the small size of the restaurant, your food arrives very quickly. As for the actual atmosphere of the place: it's small, cozy and comfortable. If you can manage to get the seat/bench in the corner by the window in the early afternoon (any season but summer here folks... might be hot), you get a comfortable chair, the sun on your back, and great food in front. Trifecta baby.
(5)Theodore B.
not really impressed cramp space with only bar and maybe 12 tables uni bruschetta starter was unmemorable lobster rolls r better at neptune or just make your own [market basket special 5.99/lbs...make 2rolles under 10 bucks] its an okay place. oyster's fresh, wine list pretty good, and staff is friendly. maybe the front hostess need to lie a little better, as our reservation turned into an hour wait..then a call 10 mins later saying our table was ready
(2)Tammie P.
The lobster roll that I hear everyone rave about was just OK. The fries, cole slaw, and pickles that came with the roll were awesome. The buttered-bun that held the lobster was delicious. The only thing missing was the yummy lobster.
(3)Bill Y.
Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. There may be nobody on the planet who is more picky about fried clams than I am and, brother, I've come a long way. Once upon a time I thought that Howard Johnson had the best fried clams extant...please one and all, forgive me. I was just a kid from the Midwest..what did I know? Many years have passed since my immature tastes crowned HoJo. After many visits to Boston over the years and finally moving here in retirement three years ago I've had occasion to eat a lot of clams and I now must tell your all, that nobody, but NOBODY executes this fussy dish (so many ways to go wrong) than our friends at B&G Oysters. Given all the reviews and the proven excellence of Ms. Lynch my comments don't mean much and rightly so. I did just want to express the hope that they will continue to produce such magic from the Fryalator. On first bite one's senses are filled with the smackdown delicious blend of light crust, unbelievably tender, sweet crustacean and piquant sauce. The combination is flatout bliss. One never gets the dreaded "gob" as each morsel stands in magnificent isolation. The serving is just right so that by the end the clams are still nicely warm. I don't know how B&G has achieved this triumph but they've done it and they never let one down. Since the only seafoods I enjoy are clams, shrimp, oysters, and the sainted "lobsta", (Yep, I'm a heretic) and must rely on the exclamations of joy from my fellow diners who do enjoy "swimming" seafood. The kitchen is capped off by a first rate wait staff. My only reservations is that it is quite small.
(4)Bob S.
Great seafood, waitstaff, music...what else can I say? Been here several times during this past year and have yet been disappointed. The food is second to none. Lobster BLT, lobster bisque and the fresh oysters (Duxbury) are all to die for. The wine list is extensive and the waitstaff are extremely well informed with what is offered on the entire menu. Impressive! My wife and I happened to arrive a couple of weeks ago on a Thursday night, sat at the bar and witnessed Chef owner Barbara Lynch working the grill. What struck the two of us is how she had the pulse of not only the food that was being prepared but what was being enjoyed by her customers. Being attentive to return plates that may have not been completely finished. She was on her game in a big way. The prices are steep but the overall experience is well worth the money.
(5)AJ G.
I went here last Saturday night after not eating all day. I was visiting from San Diego and was told by my friends that B and G had the best fish in Boston. We got there and there was a hour and a half wait. I told the hostess that we would wait because I came all the was from San Diego to eat there. She called us within a half an hour and we got a great table. The service was great and the waiter explained everything very well. My dinner was great and I enjoyed my dining experience.
(5)Elaine L.
Excellent fresh oysters! My party and I had 5 dozen oysters. YUMMY!!!!
(4)Rozina K.
I moved to the South End more than six months ago and ever since I moved, I've wanted to try this place. After a failed attempt this summer when we arrived sans reservations and were told the wait was over an hour, we finally got a chance to go back this weekend. Ambiance wise, I have to say I was much more impressed with what I saw over the summer, even though I didn't have a chance to taste the food. People were hanging out outside and it was more relaxed. The restaurant is quite small so going with a larger group is not an option. We were sat at a private table in the back and the table was quite awkward because I felt like we were practically infringing on the couple next to us (who by my judgement were on the worst first date EVER). So on to the oysters. Of the dozen or so oysters listed on the menu, we ordered about six varieties and were told that they were out of two of the ones we ordered. Uhhh..what? Your claim to fame is oysters. How do you run out of oysters??? Its in your freaking name! We ordered others and enjoyed them very much but I have to say they weren't remarkable (no better than Legal Seafoods). We also ordered calamari which was average and a side of french fries, which were to die for. For desert, I ordered the chocolate mousse desert and was again told that they were out. So disappointing. I want to give this place four stars because they had Duvel on their menu but it will be 3 stars for this average dinner. Not sure I'll be going back.
(3)Brandon M.
I can't possibly say enough nice things about this place. Their lobster roll is the best in the world...or at the very least Mass. As a novice oyster eater I was intimidated by the selection, but the servers are awesome and never fail to suggest a few delicious choices. The staff are always friendly and despite the smallish nature of the place I've never had to wait too long for a seat. I'd suggest sitting at the bar, where the servers are attentive and the view of the chef doing his thing enhances the overall experience.
(5)jim I.
The oysters were incredible, and the tuna steak was pretty tasty too. Downsides: Not a full bar. Pretty small, so you should call ahead. It gets expensive quick, so know that you are dropping a nice chunk of change before you go... that said, the food was very good and I didn't feel the prices were way out of line.
(4)Jaime V.
There were two girls next to us and one of them was savoring every bite as though she was a food critic off the clock. They seemed extremely pleased when they left. As for our meal, we were sat on the patio which was awesome since it wasn't too loud and the servers were ever present. The lobster roll is supposed to be superb, but I didn't try that; instead I ordered the cacciuco, which was unbelievable and on par with Neptunes' cioppino. The oysters hit the spot as well. Order a bottle of wine, sit on the patio towards the fence (so you could people-watch), or not, and wait till the lights come on; it changes the atmosphere entirely.
(4)Valerie D.
Dined in July 2010. Food was well executed and tasty but banal. Flavors would be easy to find at other restaurants. (Sam LaGrassa's: best clam chowder in the city; Neptune's oyster: best lobster rolls in the city). I would have overlooked the common flavors on the menu if the service was up to par. However, service was cold, rude and indifferent. When we asked our server about her favorites on the menu, she rolled her eyes, sighed and dropped her head like we being tremendously bothersome to her. We are out-of-town'ers that wanted to experience the restaurants popular items, not the server's attitude. I understand that we were dining at 9pm, so she may have had a long night in a busy restaurant, but that is NOT the way to garner repeat business. Atmosphere was young and loud. Not many soft surfaces in restaurant to drown out the noise. Overall, not worth the price tag in my opinion.
(2)Michael T.
I'm stingy with my five-star ratings, but B&G Oyster ALMOST made me click it... Clam chowder: amazing Oysters: amazing and ridiculously fresh. Texture, perfect. Accompaniments? Excellent, but horseradish wasn't included by default :( Lobster roll: ta-die fo'. $27 may seem a bit steep, but seriously...just bite the bullet. Tons of lobster meat with practically no mayo (was there any?), little lemon, on a buttered/toasted roll. O.M.G. The fries were excellent, as well...a slight crunch and not too greasy. Make reservations for either lunch OR dinner on a weekend, just FYI. We had to sit at the counter because we didn't make reservations for lunch on a Saturday (people do that?).
(4)Jennifer D.
This place was great. I tried out a variety of fresh oysters, and the waitress was knowledgeable enough to tell us about the regions that they came from as well as the taste and size of the oysters. We also ordered the clam chowder which was a very different twist on how chowder is normally prepared: it wasn't as thick, but it was so flavorful and delicious.
(5)Liza S.
I had three desires for this night Oysters and eating alfresco and my date. In no particular order all three were delicious! So to start; Yummy! Yummy! Yummy! I have eaten oysters from Louisiana to Maine and these were the best yet! Shucked with the juices intact, served on ice with sauce and lemon, which wasn't needed, the oysters were like velvet. When I slipped one into my mouth, strait from the shell, the bite of saltwater rolled over my mouth while the velvety softness caressed my tongue. Then biting into the belly, sweet juices spurted to mix with the brine I was in heaven. They were pure & unadulterated as if I were sitting on a oyster bed shucking them right then and there. For and entree I had the Tuna Tar-Tar and a Sorrel Salad. Like the Oysters the Tar-Tar was fresh and very tasty. It had a very delicate flavor which was a soft sweetness which served with an aioli sauce which had a nice tang to it was a very nice compliment. I love a great salad forget the mixed greens and leave the iceberg lettuce in the north pole, this salad was tops!. Very sharp in flavor and fresh served with a whisper of dressing. We shared a banana pudding which usually is heavy and like the kind Granma would make but it was not. This had homemade vanilla wafers and lightly whipped cream on top. The pudding part was loose, lightly sweet with good banana flavor to it, yum. Overall I could have easily just eaten more oysters and a salad to be happy with my supper. Since it was hot as Hades during the day the thought of being inside was too much, so my date and I opted for the sunken patio. It was below street level with Trumpet Vines growing all over and has a cool lush feeling. The lighting was subtle reflecting off the white triangle shaped awnings that were stretched over head. Our waiter was tops and came and went with just enough attention. We were not rushed or made to feel that way, so kudos to him. What a great place! I would return in a heartbeat! As for my date he truly eclipsed everything and the oysters stood up their reputation......
(5)David A.
For those who like raw oysters, this is definately a place to go. They have a nice selection of oysters, very fresh and the staff is good at explaining the differences in them. It is also fun to sit at the "bar" where you can look into the kitchen and watch them work. I would also recommend it for couples or a group of four that want to have a quiet seafood dinner and know that they are getting very good quality. I enjoyed it and would go back again.
(4)A T.
After being disappointed with my first ever lobster roll experience at Durgin Park, I went out on a limb to give the dish another try at B&G Oysters after hearing theirs was the best. WOW, WOW, WOW! Big chunks of lobster, light on the sauce, bread was fresh and tasty, and the fries were good too. Add a glass of white wine and snap! Mmmmm
(5)Chris T.
We came here because it's owned by the same restaurant group as the Butcher Shop, and we were not disappointed. The oyster selection is top notch, and the staff is knowledgeable and passionate about all the food on the menu. The menu is small, but lots of the dishes are delicious. As at the Butcher Shop, the wine list is top-notch. It's mostly focused on whites, the by the glass selection is great, and the markup is reasonable for Boston. We had a Huet Clos du Bourg 05 - amazing! Overall a great experience. Only drawback is that it's small, and there's only one table that can accommodate large parties.
(5)Ray c.
Just had lunch there for first time. Had restaurant week lunch menu. Amazing. Salmon croquette on bed of watercress and pea compote, lobster bisque and a panna cotta to kill for. Wow. Also tried oysters: Kukamotos. Why did I resist eating oysters for so long. So delicious and fresh. Friendly staff, efficient small place. definately try reserving or eat at the bar. We did and it was fun.
(4)mike h.
Small but fun place if your in the mood for some Oysters and don't want to be with the tourist crowd.
(4)tessie n.
having mostly only had west coast raw oysters, i was curious about east coast/local oysters. so i ordered eight different kinds of raw oysters from Massachusetts, Prince Edward Island, Connecticut and Virginia. at $2.65 each, it was a bit pricey, but thought i'd just give it a try. the oysters were amazingly fresh and delicious with just a squeeze of lemon. however the Virginia oysters were not ones i'd ever order again. very metallic tasting - bleh. the clam chowder was a bit runny (lite chowder perhaps?) and briny, not something i'd order again either. great for the raw oyster experience if the pain of shelling out $2.65/ea doesn't hurt you too much.
(4)Gayle G.
I had one meal in Boston last week and this happened to be it. We were referred here by a friend and overall, I was pretty happy. I'd definitely have to eat here again to get a full impression. First off...loved the sunken patio area. Perfect for a lovely June night. It was, perhaps, one of the best outdoor dining experiences I've had. Of course, you can't thank the restaurant for the weather. B&G has a great oyster menu. We had an assortment of four types and they were all great. My fave was the Salt Pond. I wish we'd eaten another dozen. For our meals we split the scallops ($26, I think) and the lobster special which was a split lobster stuffed with chorizo and breadcrumbs and a side of truffled mac & cheese ($55). The scallops were perfect, sweet and caramelized and cooked just the way I like 'em. The lobster was lobster. I've come to the decision after this meal that I really don't love lobster. I'd prefer crab. That being said, the lobster was tasty, the stuffing added a nice rich saltiness to it and the mac & cheese was good, not fabulous. Next time, I'll stick to the scallops and oysters and steer clear of the lobster. I'm giving it four stars for potential.
(4)Anna B.
Great food. Just be sure to tell them you're in a hurry if you are on any sort of timeline. Lunch was yummy but took FOREVER. The place was not full and we saw the staff chatting. Maybe I am a grumpy old corporate type but I don't think restaurants should assume we have 2 hours for lunch.
(4)Emily J.
Service was lacking, not a busy night by far and the bartender would rather stand with his back to our party then ask us for our order. Very very overpriced, every entree was $30 and I'd say worth more like $18-20. Raw bar was fairly extensive, wine list is impressive. Other than that, I've experienced much better in Boston for less.
(2)Bryan K.
I went here with my girlfriend about a year ago. They had a fantastic scallop app. that we still talk about. We had a few oysters with the usual fixin's but it was the Scallops that really made us love this place. Only drawback, it is very small and we ended up sitting at these weird short bar stools up above the raw bar. kind of an akward seat. Other than that, the place was great.
(4)Sara C.
The debate goes on B&G vs Neptunes...I honestly think you can't have the hot and cold lobster roll in the same category. I'm more of a fan of the hot one from Neptunes but there's nothing wrong with the cold B&G style! The waitress at B&G was really helpful on our oyster selection - just brought us a sampling of everything. Great little place - going back for restaurant week!
(5)Arestia R.
The place is small but cozy and nice. It's almost like you're dining in someone's home, and I like that. The staff is friendly and the service is prompt and impeccable. They have a nice wine list, but of course I need to talk about...THE OYSTERS. Great variety and delicious. They even have special Monday night plates during these cold, oyster season days. I love this spot for date night or catching a drink with my girls. Caution: it's a little pricey...not somewhere I'd turn to every week.
(4)Scott P.
Came back to Boston for a friend's wedding. Last minute arrangement for B&G Oysters. I have been before and it was amazing. This time around I was not so impressed. They had a special menu for New Years Eve, which I decided to give it a shot. Eight days later I am writing about it and for the life of me can't remember what it was I ate, other than oysters on the half shell. I guess that says quite a bit. Please don't get me wrong. I am a huge fan of Barbara Lynch. She is in fact my favorite chef in Boston. I still have yet to try her No. 9 Park but can't wait. It's just that this NYE dinner was not memorable at all! I don't know if that was due to me expecting more or because, well it was NYE. I will commend the staff that evening. The valet was great, my friend was lost and he got on my cell phone and stayed with her until she arrived, our waitress was fun and very sweet and the host was just as welcoming. Give it a shot but maybe don't go during a major holiday. Barbara will always get two thumbs up from me, it was just a one night bad dining experience.
(3)Jenny H.
The oysters here are amazing! And its awesome that there are different selections for the oysters. The entrees themselves were a little overwhelming. The lobster BLT was good and there was a hefty amount, including fries... but the bread got a little too tough for me. Then again, I'm not the biggest fan of sandwiches. Between B&G and Neptune... I think I'll choose Neptune.
(4)Todd F.
Lobster BLT! Enough said. Great selection of Oysters and wines.
(5)Rob D.
I have no idea why I haven't reviewed this place before - it's pretty remarkable - when I was there with a friend the other day, I was reminded how remarkable it was. ...so, why is it so remarkable? (I got to use that word 3 times in 2 sentences. Excellent.)... It's so remarkable (4 times) because Boston is a seaport town, and there's like...what...6 restaurants that acknowledge that simple fact, and maybe only 3 that do it right. B&G does it right. The oysters are local, the bar is excellent, the rest of the meals are great, and the outside seating (also ridiculously rare for Boston) is perfect. They also have an excellent wine list...so, a bottle of Rose and 2 dozen of the little fellas was a nice way to spend a hot & humid Boston afternoon...
(4)Jim A.
Stop number 1 on our Boston tour. We came late on Saturday afternoon. They delivered what we were craving - succulent, fresh oysters on the half-shell. Our server was knowledgeable and helped guide us to the right choices. The seared tuna with fennel was also great - very good tuna, well seared on the outside and rare inside with a nice shaved fennel to accompany. Wine list was a bit expensive for the atmosphere. Good choices, but spendy. Service was ok - our server seemed to have a lot going on and could have been a bit more attentive. Five stars with better service and a better priced wine list.
(4)fabio m.
I will never go back to this place, the staff is incredibly rude, especially the hostess (which is bizarre since her job is to welcome you). After a few annoying experiences, I finally had enough: made a reservation to take my girlfriend. Arrived on time, and as it was a sunny but very hot day, we asked to sit outside BUT IN THE SHADE. While getting menus for us, she started helping another couple that came in, ignored us, led THEM out to the patio and sat them at the only table in the shade! Then, turned to us, sat us in the sun. When I explained that her behavior was wrong, her reply was that she did not control which tables were in the shade, or what. Ridiculous. Good food, but nothing earth-shattering. I can get oysters anywhere.
(1)Alexis R.
There are plenty of solid options around, but I usually end up at B&G when in Boston and craving a lobster roll. The atmosphere in the garden is totally zen. They also have a short but well-curated beer list that has a Belgian ale or two. Again, there's lots to choose from in this category, but this is one of my favorites. I understand the complaints about the cost of the roll but market price for lobster is never cheap, and if it is: it tastes that way. Cheap. And not worth it. B&G is.
(4)J B.
MMMMM...I love this place, and if I had wads of money to blow each week on tasty oysters, stellar seafood, and attentive service, I'd be there all the time. This is a spot that REALLY focuses on quality --everything from the freshest oysters to the homemade butter to the interesting wine list shows attention to detail and quality. You'll pay for it though, as mentioned above. If you're looking for a spot to suck down a few oysters (a rotating list appears each day), enjoy a cold beer or glass of prosecco, and share an entree or two, this is my pick of oyster bars in Boston.
(4)Nick F.
This place is great. The quality of the food is impressive. Big plus: great wine selection (not huge, but great) and a knowledge staff. Additionally, the ambiance is great and I love the area. A must for me anytime I am in Boston.
(4)Carla B.
Oh how I wish this place existed in L.A. Everything was fabulous - the cozy, casual ambiance with the most wonderful food. The kind of place you could just drop into to have a bowl of clam chowder, and read a book. Speaking of that clam chowder, it was heavenly - loaded with juicy clams and assorted other goodies. The lobster roll was superb - no claw meat - each mouthful a joy. Desserts were yummy too.
(5)Liza H.
Fabulous oysters! I love sitting down to an array of the little darlings freshly shucked here. Inevitably, the Wellfleet oysters win hands down. The Sicilian seafood stew is super. Worth a visit
(4)Steph P.
Raw oysters are pretty damn sexy, haters be damned. It's only appropriate that you have a sexy place to eat them. From the chrome table tops to the exposed-and-up-front kitchen/bar area to the dimly-lit intimate seating, B&G is a contemporary, chic kind of sexy setting for you to indulge in some super fresh mollusks and other seafood. As you can imagine, this is not the ideal place for large groups (there's really only one option that allows for about 9 people to sit at two tables put together). But they were very kind in accommodating our reservation and even cooler for playing the various RnB/hip hop hits from the 90s we mentioned as we remarked at (and tabledanced to) the awesome playlist. For such a small restaurant, it's impressive how many types of oysters are available - printed for you on a little piece of cardstock customized to reflect that day's selection, which come from both coasts of the US and abroad as well. I was also grateful for the extensive appetizer menu (cause I had foolishly eaten beforehand), which our large party ordered a bunch of things from. The calamari and soft shell crabs were tasty and not too greasy, while the fried artichoke was on the heavy side (though I liked the presentation of the whole artichoke, esp getting to the heart). The tomato and white bean salad was fresh and light, yet substantial. The tableside presentation/creation of the chilled cucumber soup was impressive, and the soup delicious. Everyone at the table who got an entree had only good things to say....kind of made me bummed that I didn't order one. At the end of the meal, we ordered one of each of the desserts - mascerated strawberries w/ shortbread and creme fraiche, tiramisu served in a glass, and olive oil cake w/ peach sorbet (the favorite of many). As you can imagine, sexy + seafood = spendy. Oysters costing $2.55 each can add up quite quickly...and of course you have to be sipping some kind of varietal to complete the mood (yummy prosecco and a nice selection of wines all around). But seriously, sometimes you just gotta go all out for good food and atmosphere. If it matters to you, it just might be worth it because with the setting and all those aphrodisiacs, you may have a greater chance of getting laid - like the couple sitting at the bar shamelessly sucking face in front of everyone.
(5)Dre T.
Very good seafood, just not quite as good as expected. Still happily enjoyed the food and had a good time.
(3)Tim B.
B&G had a really great selection of oysters from all over the continent, and it was fun to try the different types to see how their flavors varied. It's disappointing how expensive oysters are in NE, but $2/per seems to be the standard. The kitchen is right there next to your table and the restaurant itself is very small. We enjoyed watching them cook while we ate. The chowder was very good too! Good place for a date.
(4)Jenna C.
I apologize in advance for giving this 1 star because I dined here with some of my favorite people who gush over how much they love it. So, Robbie and Ryan, I apologize for this but i must stay true to my outspoken ways... I went here for restaurant week. Granted, its the first time B&G has ever done restaurant week, but boy did they royally screw up. First course: Lobster Bisque for 2 of us and Caesar Salad with blue cheese (boring!) for the others. Mediocre at best, but unfortunately, it was the best part of the meal. Three of us ordered Sole for our entrees and the other got shrimp. The sole was not seasoned and tasted extremely boring. But the shrimp....whew. They looked like the little shrimp you get in shrimp lo mein from the greasy corner Chinese joint. There was a total of 10 of them, placed in a line, over a mcnasty orange sauce. Gross. When I tasted it, I felt bad for my boyfriend who had chosen it. Then comes dessert...how can you mess that up? Chocolate cake and a lemon cake with cherries. We had both at the table. The lemon cake tasted like a combination of bitter flour and rancid lemons. Completely inedible, but of course it was downed by my half starved boyfriend who had consumed 4 shrimp for dinner. On top of all of that, the restaurant was FREEZING, smelled like fish, and P. Diddy played over the speakers half the time. Come on. Oh, and the waitress served my friend the incorrect dishes during every couse...I'm hoping this was the most off night they have ever had.
(1)DJ L.
The rear patio is quite nice. Nothing fancy, but a cool small space down the stairs off a side street... the interior is small and cozy just a few steps below ground level. the raw bar is a nice place to sit for a beer before heading to a table. Only two beers on tap, but nice options. Food was delicious, but not over the top gourmet. A bit pricey. The staff pool their tips which is quite nice as the staff works as a team.
(5)Mike M.
Ive been here a couple times mostly for a change of scenery when we go out for little-necks for late-lunch. No complaints except for the prices and nothing to rave about either. For some reason my father kept wanting to go back there with me so he must have his own reasons for liking it. I wouldn't go there unless i was in the area and entertaining people. Ill have to go there again and explore new dishes based on what you yelpers suggest.
(3)Alice C.
glass of chablis and a dozen oysters. sat at the open kitchen / bar, watched the kitchen turn out delicious things like soft shell crab, shaved asparagus salad, etc. all in all a low key sunday evening!
(4)Bjorn J.
I just love this place. It is beautiful, the service is good, and when I think back to my visit my mouth waters. It,s pricey but you get what you pay for. I had the lobster roll and would order it again, and next time I will also try some oysters. Looking forward to visit again.
(4)Nadia K.
My friend and I went for restaurant week lunch, it was ok- the lobster beignets were good, but far from great... probably pass on those next time- they just lacked good lobster flavor and the dough just tasted under done in the middle instead of like they were filled with lobster. I had the fish option with olive tapenade which would have been much better if the tapenade was on the side because it completely washed out the fish and zucchini it was on. As far as desserts we got one of each their what I call chocolate brick- thick fudge on top of a mediocre pie crust bottom (really guys, lose the pie bottom it's a completely miss), but the chocolate part was definitely worth the 10,000 calories it came with. The yogurt ice cream was poor- icy and lacked the good yogurt flavor that places like pinkberry have nailed. My friend got the oyster BLT which she liked a lot, but only ate half the bread because otherwise she couldn't take a bite. Overall, glad I went for restaurant week and not for the normal prices and probably wont be going back
(2)Thuy L.
We made a reservation to B & G after hearing such great things about it, and we had friends from out of town that wanted seafood. I was hoping that the deck would be open since the interior of the restaurant is really small. There are like 6 tall tables and 4 tall chairs. Alas, it was not open, so we had some bumping going on. The servers were very attentive. We ordered a bottle of champagne and instead of leaving the bottle on the table or to the side, our server would come back numerous times to refill our glasses without us ever having to ask. Since I'm not an oyster fan, I didn't order any. But the rest of the group did, they ordered 4 different types of oysters and they all thought that they were pretty good and yummy. I'll take their word for it. To start, we shared a beet salad which was also very good. Then two of us ordered the Lobster BLT, which was AMAZING. Imagine--two thick strips of bacon, large pieces of lobster, 2 tomato slices, and a lettuce leaf sandwiched between 2 Ciobatta slices. Granted, the bread is a little rough and ended up cutting the roof of my mouth, it was still AWESOME!!! The fries were okay, but the buttered pickle slices were so good. They were not just your run of the mill grocery store bread and butter pickles, they were better. My friend got the lobster roll and he said that it was good, but the BLT was better. And my bf got the fried clams, which were fried to perfection, not too much, not too little, just right. It was so good that even when my stomach was telling me that it was full, my mind was begging me, "Just one more bite."
(4)Lucas H.
We came here on one of our last nights of vacation, it's a little pricey but I'm all about quality when it comes to food and I got just that. The wine was great, the oysters were fresh and the entree was perfect. We chatted with the locals and Tara are waitress was phenomenal, thank you so much for giving us such great information on everything that is Boston. We plan to move to this city next year and B& G will be a regular place for us!
(5)B J.
This place rocks my world. Best raw bar in Boston, after Neptune Oyster, and the best "traditional" lobster roll this side of the Saco River. The wait can be a while. Make a reservation -- and make it early -- a couple days ahead of time, even for a Wednesday night dinner if it's in prime eating time.
(5)Alec Y.
this place was good. good, not amazing. but solid. i went for lunch. and i walked in and it was really cute. i was expecting something more polished, but i liked that it wasn't. i also loved that the kitchen was open to the public. and i really like their oyster display. i really like high chairs so the way the restaurant was set up was nice. the service was only okay. i actually would say it was on the not so good side. first off, when we ordered, and they were taking away our wine glasses, the women knocked mine over and almost broke it. and it wasn't like a gentle knock over. she was trying to work so fast that she knocked the glass with quite a lot of force. it was startling. she also just seemed rushed even though there were only a few people in the restaurant. she was walking around fast and when she was dropping things off, like bread, she dropped it off while she was walking to another table. same with the food. same with the check and bill. she just seemed so rushed all the time. it wasn't awful or anything. i was just surprised. the food was quite good though. it didn't blow my mind. but i really did enjoy it. i started with some oysters, that were delicious. super fresh and the flavor and sauces were delicious. then i got the clam chowder which was one of the best clam chowders i've ever drank. i then had the oyster po boy. which was good. the sandwich itself isn't actually that impressive. i liked it a lot, but i was more curious about the other dishes after i ate mine. then for dessert, i had this greek yogurt which at first taste, i was really not enjoying it. but then after i continued, i really liked it. it got better and better. overall i had a good experience. i enjoyed the food a lot, and i definitely would love to come back. but now i'm just more curious about barbara lynch's other restaurants.
(4)Matt O.
I love oysters. In fact, one week last summer I ate so many of them that I started turning red and puffy. I'm not sure why that happened, but I attribute it to my mass consumption of the tasty little filter feeders. With this being said, I know good oysters and this place has them. Their oyster menu is like a wine menu... briny, slimy little creatures from all over the eastern seaboard (and a few from the west coat). I visited B&G a couple weeks ago and ate 2 dozen of the few different PEI variations they offered. Brilliant! Oh yeah, the dinner was great too. Clam and Chorizo stew. Awesome. Great wine list too... MANY white varietals from Austria and Germany that are pretty uncommon around my area of California. It was fun to check them out and see how they played out against the salty little critters. Will I go back? Definitely. P.S. they only take reservations on weekends for parties of 4 or more. Be aware! The place is VERY SMALL. Expect a wait. But also expect the hostesses to be very accommodating and pleasant. We were able to order wine while waiting on the patio.
(5)aaron t.
i've been here before, but just realizing it. Amazing assortment of seafood, especially the variety of oysters(20+). Extremely tasty but for a price. Call ahead of time. Very fresh, great service, nice environment, good vibes, good place to catch up with friends, a date, or a small group. I've seen the patio before, but never been out there since I went during the winter.
(4)D D.
Revisited B&G's this month & it is still as awesome as last year's visit! ***** AWESOME place! Quaint lower level floor of a corner brownstone looking building on Tremont St. Not easily visible but you'll see 2 valet dudes on standby in front of restaurant. Me and my guest sat on the bar area, which are also the front row seats to the open kitchen. Meghan took care of us w/ her attentive skills of making sure all patrons at the bar seating were well taken care of. Perfectly fried, lightly battered oysters w/ their homemade tartar sauce was yummy. Wide selection of raw oysters that change daily. Refreshing Maine Lobster roll w/ FF : ), the best I ever had b/c it was NOT drenched w/ mayo. Also tried their pan-seared sea scallops. Wide selection of wine choices too. I believe it's right next door to their sister restaurant called the butcher shop, will have to try that next time i'm in boston. Ended dinner w/ a chocolate brownie sundae : ) Please note that you don't have to have car valeted ... just park a few blocks away. I also noticed that you have to have a residence permit to park in vicinity of restaurant, so cruise further 3 - 4 blocks. ENJOY, if you're planning to visit them!!!
(5)Uland L.
Came to Boston on business and decided to check out this place after seeing the great reviews on yelp and recommendations from different Travel Brochures. It's recommended that you make reservations as this place seems to be very crowded even on the weekdays and the dining space isn't very large. My coworker and I ended up sitting at the bar in front of the oyster shucking section of the kitchen which was nice as it provided some entertainment during dinner. They have a great selection of oysters so we ended up ordering around 20, all of which were very fresh. For entrees we ordered clam chowder, scallops, and several other seafood choices that gave us a total bill of around $90. This place is definitely not cheap, but the food is very fresh and the service is friendly. Recommended for the oysters and clam chowder.
(4)Brett M.
I went to B&G Oysters with the intention of eating a disgustingly over indulgent amount of oysters. When the bank didn't approve my Oyster loan (they called it irrational and told me that I need to get a grip on reality), I settled for a smaller sample of Oysters and something a bit more reasonable, a Lobster BLT. The Oysters were nice. They had a varied selection from the Northern Atlantic and Pacific, all were pretty good. The Lobster BLT was incredibly sloppy. I may actually rename it the "Slobster BLT." I picked it apart with a fork after giving it my best.
(3)Nikki V.
Definitely try the beet salad and mussels appetizer!!! Yummmmm!!! If you can, make a reservation, but sitting at the bar was a great and fun experience.
(4)Jane D.
The evening hostess at this place needs a serious attitude adjustment. My friends and I had been meaning to go here for quite some time and decided to finally go one evening after work. As expected, it was quite busy, so we put our name in for a table on the patio, which we were told would be a 30 minute wait. We gave our cell phone number, and proceeded across the street to the Beehive for drinks (love the pink ladies there!). We sat outside, literally 50 feet from B&G, with the phone in front of us on the table - after 45 minutes elapsed with no call, we called to see what the status of the table was - the hostess told us that she tried to reach us 4 times, and we weren't picking up (which was extremely untrue). She also quoted the wrong cell phone number back to us, and when we corrected her, she said, "Oh, yes, that's what I meant." Long story short - she gave away our table and told us it was our fault that we weren't picking up the phone at the wrong number that she was dialing. To further her extreme attitude, she then called us back immediately following us hanging up on her, to "prove her point." I'll admit the food looked good, but nothing is worth that - especially when you're paying them for service. We took our empty stomach's to Stephi's and had delicious food and wonderful service. NEVER going back to to B&G again - if I want oysters, I'll be at Neptune Oyster in the North End (also fabulous).
(1)Q C.
OMG the lobster roll is SOOOO tiny. It's snack size. Definitely not worth the price. If it were a little bigger, it might be comparable to the one at Neptune's Oyster. The lobster meat and fries were tasty but I would not go back simply for the lack of value that you get.
(2)Alex R.
Always reliable, though when I'm in the mood for a great oyster bar and lobster roll, Neptune Oyster in the North End usually wins out.
(4)Allyson C.
Their lobster roll is ridiculously good. Nice wine list too and love the decor/atmosphere.
(5)Greg L.
Some of the best oysters in Boston. I was extremely impressed with the selection, they had a lot of west coast offerings which you do not see that often. A little pricey but its expected for Tremont st. Atmosphere is great but the waitstaff is stuck up. I went with a few people early on a Saturday just to kill time before we went to the Beehive, and for some reason the host was not happy. The waiter clearly did not work for his tip, with his service being a bit abrasive and did not care that we ordered a few oysters and some beers. Overall I would go back because the food was impressive.
(4)Niki B.
From the aesthetics of the place to the staff to the food this is a 5 star place to eat or have a drink. I especially appreciated the willingness of the staff to explain all things oysters. And needless to say the oysters were top notch. A favourite. Hands down!
(5)kendall f.
Went for lunch, pretty much everything was delish. We sat at the bar and started with a half dozen oysters pick by our waiter, a nicely sized, sweet and briny morsels of deliciousness. Moved on to some sweet small bellied clams cooked to perfection.French fries were crispy and light salted. To add a little earth we ordered the sugar snap pea salad, a clever melding of crunchy sugar snap peas, creamy ricotta and crunchy almonds. Because we really do not get good calms in California we ordered the steamed little neck clams, once again sweet but savory packets of goodness laced in a spicy red sauce. The service was friendly and attentive with out being intrusive. The decor has been updated since I was there a few years ago, the place is nice and light during the day. My only *issue* is that 27.00 is a little steep for a lobster roll given lobsters are pretty cheap. I did not order one because of it. Will defiantly be back to B & G when visiting Boston.
(4)cassandra L.
Came here for Boston restaurant week. Like the cosy atmosphere of the rest. The server is friendly but they are under staffed. Only one server working. The service was very very slow; therefore earning the one star review. We tried the Lobster Arancini (ok- not impressive), mussels with fries(ok-again not impressive), salmon salad sandwich(ok- nothing impressive) and dessert ( we only took a bite!) We also hv half a dozen of oyster( Neptune oyster selection is much better). All in all, we came here prepared to be blown away by the food here due to yelpers review. Unfortunately it is not the case for us after spending over $70 for lunch. Perhaps it is the restaurant week menu. Not sure if I will give it another try. This is nothing comparable with Neptune Oyster.
(1)Sarah K.
Great place for oysters, but maybe not the best for everything else. Oyster bar is fun, you get to watch them prepare the oysters and the meals. The patio outside is large and nice, but not street facing. The oysters were amazing and fresh and I think they were offering 15 different kinds when I ate there. Everything else is just mediocre and highly priced for what you get, including the wine.
(4)Mark H.
I've eaten here a few times - the oysters are great but the rest of the dinner menu leaves something to be desired -- there aren't a ton of options and the selections available are wayyyy overpriced. Ocean perch for $25? Fried clams for $25? I am not opposed to paying these prices for nice pieces of fish, but not for hake, perch, or skate (yes, skate). Plus the wine and beer list is on the pricey side as well ($7 for a bottle any good beer for example). I'd say come for the oysters (well worth it) and have dinner somewhere else nearby.
(3)Jerry H.
Nice meal outside in the garden. Tables far enough apart for conversation. Oysters great and most interesting fish selection I have found in Boston--blue cod, fluke, and daurade. A nice change from the usual halibut and cod. Excellent wine list and server knew which wines went well with the meal. A good choice for seafood fans
(4)Tate I.
What can I say that hasn't been said... This place is just delicious.
(5)Larry B.
WHEN: Saturday 2PM PROS: 1) Nice place and people 2) Excellent waitress; and she did a complicated 6-person order in her head without a hitch. 3) Fries 4) Scallops and oysters 5) Nice outdoor area CONS: 1) $14 for a very ordinary mesclun salad with a tiny! bit of goat cheese and tasteless beets 2) Agree with Peter G., lobster roll was "Meh" 3) Bass was fine but "Meh" 4) Lobster roll overpriced
(3)Jillian Y.
Aside from the lobster bisque (too much flour), this place is amazing! The music is hot (Tribe Called Quest was playing while we sat at the bar last night), the service is low-key but good, the wine list is enchanting (and um, expensive), and oh, the oysters! The menu constantly changes, but if you can, try the "Small Choice" oyster, my favorite.
(5)Beck M.
We were in search of good simple seafood and this was the place. The raw oysters were succulent and delicious, asparagus salad unique, and lobster special was out of this world. The food is not overdone so one can appreciate the main ingredients without being over-sauced or over-salted. The bartender/server was extremely friendly, professional and kmowledgable. We highly recommend B and G for delicious unpretentious food in a cozy little spot in the South End.
(5)Steve L.
OMG I love you. I've been there on normal nights and also during restaurant week and they are always on the mark. Barbara Lynch is awesome.
(5)David h.
Best oysters in Boston!
(5)Sara D.
I have only been to this place one time for lunch, so keep that in mind. I had the lobster roll with fries and slaw. Everything on my plate was top notch, including the slaw. But, the food was very pricey ($25 for the lobster roll), and they don't give you as much as Legal Seafoods. Also, the food doesn't taste any better than Legals either. Also, the place is very small, and when it's busy, it's very cramped in there. Parking is scarce also. I was seated at the bar during this meal. But, very good food there, and it is recommended.
(4)A M.
Technically, I can't give this place any stars because I didn't eat here...but I wanted to! We tried to make a reservation earlier in the day and they were booked. We were told we could certainly walk in for a seat at the bar and of course we could eat at the bar. So, that was the plan. When we got there we were told there was a 45 minute wait for a bar seat and they would call us (they asked for our cell number) when seats became available. Huh? But you already told us we could come in and wait for a seat at the bar... Anyway, the hostess then told us we were welcome to dine SOMEWHERE ELSE!!!!! Ah, okay...thanks! That's great business. I'll be sure to do that. Sibling Rivalry...across the street and it was awesome. Thanks for the advice....bitch! See their review....it's 5 stars!!!
(1)Robert G.
A really great place for a great summer meal. I've only gone when the patio outside is open - and I don't know if I'd like to go and eat inside. The inside is very cramped, and loud. Outside you feel like you are in a private garden (with seven other tables of strangers), eating the best oysters and lobster salad you've ever tasted. The wine menu is great too - full of bottles from different places. UPDATE - I had a meal inside and it was fabulous! Intimate, private. It was loud, but we had our own little area and were able to have a converesation. This just confirms - the best place for seafood in the South End!
(5)Rebecca L.
I love this restaurant, the staff, the food, and the amazing wine list. Best restaurant in Boston, bottom line.
(5)Wesley C.
cutest oyster bar on the planet. dont be overwhelmed by the oyster menu, just have the servers pick them.
(4)Jill D.
Boston may be boring but the South End is picking up. B&G Oysters is my new favorite. This little gem is great for champagne, oysters and other pricey seafood. The quality of the food is superb. Finding a table at night, without a reservation, is near impossible.
(5)G N.
We were looking around for an early opening restaurant in the South End on a miserable rainy day and stumbled into here quite by chance. We found that this is not a good restaurant for toddlers when the mac and cheese came topped with sea urchin. The kids ate around the sea urchin, but the adults thoroughly enjoyed the slimy buttery morsels (a perfect accompaniment to mac and cheese). The raw oyster selection was manageable and had good choices from the East and West coasts. The waitress was quite knowledgeable and helped us pick a very nice selection. It was delicious. The lobster roll was very good, and the kids filled up on the fries. We shared a delectable black sea bass. My favorite Boston casual seafood joint. Like all of Barbara Lynch's restaurants, thoroughly enjoyable with top-notch ingredients and preparation. Surprisingly low noise levels from the open kitchen. Well chosen wine and beers. Smooth, unobtrusive, smart, and seamless service. Make reservations, because it can get quite crowded.
(5)Anna B.
B&G lived up to its reputation for yummy oysters, good food and pleasant atmosphere. We savored one of each oyster--thanks to the handy guide--and then went for another round of our favorites! Two dozen oysters later (between two of us) we didn't think we'd have room for the salmon and bass we ordered for dinner. Conveniently, the main courses were conservative in size (despite the price tag). The place is small but in that "quaint south end" kind of way. While we had dinner reservations and were seated promptly, the staff were incredibly polite with walk-ins who had no problem waiting for a seat at the bar. This is a great place for a special occasion, oysters only or a for a very light (and expensive) dinner. Definetly go for the oysters, and stay for the food if you have an extra $20-$30 for a main dish. Dessert menu is pretty slim.
(4)Ryan L.
I am very anti-fancy restaurant pants normally but this place is great. My gf introduced me to this place as it was her favorite. I'm not a raw oyster bar fan but it actually made me a semi fan of raw oysters. also the clam chowder here (my other main culinary love besides indian food) was ridonkulously good. As good if not better than Legal's.
(5)michelle w.
A friend and I actually stumbled upon B&G one afternoon while strolling through the South End. We suddenly had a craving for beer and oysters. The restaurant was very quaint and cozy. We sat at the bar which led us to great service. The oysters were fresh and delicious!
(5)Jackie C.
Great place, nice atmosphere. A bit pricy thou! But I really enjoyed myself. Waitress was really nice, and the wine was great!! We had a salad with pear on it...,,,,amazing!!! The mussels were also really good!! Gotta try this place out!!!
(5)Rondeep D.
My oyster cherry was popped here and I wouldnt have it any other way. The oysters were fresh and delicious and the lobster BLT I ordered was great! The place does get packed and I had to wait around 45min for a table for 5, but I think it was well worth it, and I hate waiting!
(4)Abdullah A.
Small, crowded, tough getting a reservation at last minute. But definitely worth the wait. Seating on the bar is recommended. Great menu. Besides the oysters, lobster rolls are oh so good.
(4)kim d.
This is a great spot to go and share a bottle of wine with a dozen or so oysters followed by one or two appetizers and then share and entre. Their service is great and the food is spectacular. The biggest issue is getting in the door they are always busy and the place is small so fills up quickly
(5)luke b.
YAY! FISH! mmmm. this place is FISHTASTIC! The decor is wonderful, very cozy setting. Our server was amazing. Super nice and when asked to help us pick out a wine, she picked the absolute perfect bottle. As for the food... amazing. so fresh and delicious. The lobster rolls are near perfection, with lots of tender meat and just the perfect amount of dressing. amazing. DELICIOUS... I mean DEFISHIOUS! I brought some good friends from out of town here and it was loved by all. Great dining expeirience. YAAAAAY!
(5)Julie N.
One sunny Sunday afternoon I had a craving for a lobster roll and I decided that it was time to check out Barbara's other restaurant. I'm soooo glad we did. The place is super cute - very small - very modern - great environment. We ordered up the Maine Lobster Rolls at $26 a piece (i think) and they came out pretty quickly. My god were they good. They weren't like most other lobster rolls containing just two ingredients - lobster and mayo - these had a sweet taste to it with unique spices. It came with a side of yummy cole slaw, pickles, and a basket of fries that were sooo addictive. Very filling lunch. So, with two lobster rolls, two glasses of wine, and the tip, the lunch was $100. I'd go back today if I could.
(5)Nicolas B.
Went there during the last warm days of 2010. The place was full so i enjoyed a little walk in South End with my wife. Nothing better to make me hungry. Once back, we got seated in the nice patio downstairs and got the menus. Here was my first mistake... don't take the lobster roll... I mean, I had just arrived in Boston. Yet, you shouldn't have treated me as a tourist, really, that's hurting my feelings. Second, i don't need to have a waiter that's all over me, even more if i asked for a white wine that's dry and not sweet and don't get what i ask. Congrats, you got me on the bottle. But you'll never see me again.
(2)J. G.
The lobster roll was pretty good as was the housemade pickles and fries. The coleslaw could be better though. It was too light on the dressing and a bit bland. I ordered the lobster bucatini and it was ok. The portion is pretty small for the price and it was a bit on the bland side. Service was good, but the place is pretty tiny. Definitely would recommend reservations before going. I wouldn't go out of my way to come here again. It was good, but not great. Maybe my expectations were too high?
(3)David L.
This place is a fabulous, intimate, yet happening high end restaurant. Sure you pay for it but the ambience far exceeds similar restaurants. For a couple, sitting at the bar is a nice option for dinner instead of a table. You can watch the food prep and enjoy each other. That's what I'd recommend.
(5)Ryan S.
If you're thinking of trying this place here's the need to know info: decor: (24/30) Intimate and stylish dcor; The dining space is small (keep your dinner party to less than 4), nice lighting, and great outdoor seating (which there doesn't seem to be a lot of in Boston). food: (23/30) The menu combines some "high end picnic food" (e.g., lobster roll, lobster BLT, etc.) along with some more sophisticated entrees. While the food was very good, the plates are small and overpriced. The oyster selection is pretty good; though I think if you want to eat just oysters, you could probably find it at a more modest restaurant. (For caffeine junkies: they don't have espresso drinks, but the post-meal cup of coffee was above average). service: (23/30) Given my perception of the scale of the restaurant (which was upscale-casual) the service is about what I expected. The wine presentation was done well, and the wait staff seemed to know their stuff. Cost: app + glass of wine + entre + coffee + tip ~= $50 per/person
(3)Ryan W.
Hot bartender. More on less important details later.
(3)Kara K.
Great drink menu, great oysters...sat on patio and had VERY average service. Our waitress was borderline rude and not friendly at all. We will not go back given the other incredible restaurants in the area.. a shame given the food was good.
(3)Mark B.
Great oysters and ambiance/service!
(4)Baochi N.
If you want a wide selection of oysters, this is the place to come. The low-ceilinged restaurant has a comfortable, kick back ambiance, and on warm nights you can sit in the pleasant terrace area. I had a really nice dining experience sitting at the bar, where I got to watch the kitchen work their magic. The oyster menu is indeed quite comprehensive with varieties from all over including Nova Scotia, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Washington. I tried about 8 different varieties and found about half to be delicious. The rest of the menu isn't quite as comprehensive, but that's okay because this place is really about the oysters. Still, I was quite impressed by the caesar salad with white anchovies (although I wish they had provided more than just two strips of anchovies). I also tried the soft-shell crab which was a little too salty for my usually salty taste. This is a fun little place with a great selection of beer and wine. I'd return just because it was such a good time...although, that lobster sandwich looked pretty damn good.
(3)LouLou C.
My mom and I slipped in here on a rainy Saturday. We are both oyster lovers and were not disappointed here. The service was impeccable and friendly without being overly so. The choice of oysters was wonderful! We tried fried oysters for an appetizer and these were exquisite! The only thing we were not fond of was dessert. Would definitely venture back here.
(4)Melissa Y.
This is a great place for a date. But it is pricey. If you're the type that eats a lot, then this is not the place for you. The portions are small, but I kinda liked that. I didn't waste a single bite! I went with my boyfriend and we had a dozen oysters before our entree and we were just full enough to be comfortable. the seafood stew was sooooo good. I kept asking for bread to dip into the stew. Their wines, pricey, but very good selection! desserts needed some help. only 3 choices so we skipped it...but i did think about ordering more oysters! Go on a Sunday or Monday and they have a special menu for lobsters and oysters. parking sucks in that area, but they have valet for $16. I would wait until it gets warmer and park a little further to enjoy the stroll through the south end and avoid the valet fees. So, looking back at last night, I'd say it was one of the better meals I've had this year! Go check it out for yourself!
(4)J. H.
We had one of the best meals of the year at B & G on our recent visit. It is always very crowded so get there early or risk having to wait up to an hour & a half for a table. The small subterranean space centers around the open kitchen area. We sat at the bar which wraps around the food prep area and enjoyed the free show of watching the chefs prepare the meals. The fresh oysters were delectable and the selection was incredible. The selction of oysters changes daily. The waitress was extremely well-versed on the differences between all the oysters being offered. The non-raw bar food was equally impressive... freshness and flavour abound! During fair weather they open up the patio out back for additional seating.
(5)Libby F.
My boyfriend and I went to B&G for the first time for a Valentine's Day dinner and were pleasantly surprised at the experience. We weren't able to get reservations until 9:45, but the hostess was nice enough to call around 8:30 to say that there was a cancellation, and we could come in earlier. We were across the street at The Beehive, so we finished our drinks and headed over around 9. Although we didn't get seated at the best table in the house (our table was pretty much in the entryway), our waitress was knowledgeable about the different types of oysters (and the entire menu). We started off our meal with an order of fried oysters. This dish almost took my breath away; it was above and beyond the best friend thing I've experienced in my life. Next we ordered the clam chowder. I had heard good things about the chowder but was a little disappointed in the consistency. I prefer my chowder much thicker, as it was a little watery. I must say that the flavors were still excellent in the dish. Next we decided to order from the raw bar. Not being huge raw oyster people, we asked our server to choose a variety of different types of oyster so we could experience the difference between oysters found in different parts. I was very shocked at how much the flavor varied between oysters, but I enjoyed all of them. My favorite was a Massachusetts oyster (the name has slipped my mind). After our plates were cleared and our wine was drunk, our server was kind enough to give us mini cups of hot chocolate after hearing I loved chocolate but didn't have room for dessert. We left full and happy. B&G is definitely a place I will go again!
(4)Allison R.
The oysters and wine were delicious and the waiter was lovely. That being said the manager and hostess were both extremely rude when we sat at the bar. Our intention was to eat dinner there, but because poor attitude we decided finish our wine and take our business elsewhere. To reaffirm our decision when the bill came, the manager was rude and curt. In summary, the first and last impression left such a bad taste in my mouth that despite the loveliness the oysters, I would recommend you NOT dine here. (If it were just the hostess or staff, that would be one thing... but it was the manager... not cool)
(2)David R.
The oysters were fantastic and reasonably priced. My wife was an oyster virgin, but no longer; I had to cut her off after 1/2 dozen to make sure that she didn't ruin her dinner. Though we never got back to try the rest of the menu, she kept asking, which I think is a good sign. Though the waitress did a great job as well in recommending oysters for us to try, she started out a bit surly, almost like a sea captain too long away from land and his lover, Brandee, who is such a fine girl.
(4)Mona T.
I am so happy I found a new great seafood restaurant in Boston! i was getting sick of legals. Went with a group of friends and all 5 of us loved our meals. The avocado and crab salad is amazing.
(4)Michael M.
Lobster BLT, Wellfleet oysters are my favorite!!
(5)Jessica F.
The best fried clams in the city (state? East coast?) are served at B&G, no question. Add the freshly made tartar sauce and it's heavenly! A good secret is that they take reservations on the day-of, after 11am. Sometimes you'll get stuck at a table that's too small for your party, but if you improvise, share plates and get cozy, you'll have a great time! Or sit at the bar and watch the chefs prepare each plate and shuck oyster after oyster - you'll even get to see Barbara in action every now and then. Try the rieslings that are on the wines-by-the-glass menu as a great complement to a salty, briny oyster plate. And save room for dessert!!
(5)Sarah A.
Impressed by the great reviews here on Yelp I tried B&G Oysters last night. I thought the place was pretty good, although a little pricey. I just wanted to clarify about the reservations, however. They only take them the day of, after 11am for parties of 4 or more. So, when I called I was told our party of 2 would just have to walk in. However, that did not turn out to be a problem. There were lots of tables available, probably given we went early and it was a Tuesday night. We had the lobster roll and the fried oysters appetizer. The lobster roll was good: big chunks of lobster and very little mayo. I am not sure it's quite worth the $24, but very good nonetheless. I really enjoyed the fried oysters. The tartar sauce accompanying them was great. The fries that came with the lobster roll were pretty good, although they could have been a little crispier. We had some reisling by the glass which was excellent. I think this would be a great place to come and have a glass of wine and some oysters or other appetizers. I don't know if I'd do dinner here again due to the priciness of a lot of the entrees. However, the oysters were great. Something that kind of detracted from our dining experience, however, was that it did not seem like the place was air conditioned, or if it was, the AC was not very effective. It was very warm the whole time we were there. This may have been due to the open outdoor patio and the traffic in and out from there. I don't know, but they really need to crank up the AC. Otherwise, it is a cool place, although not really in the temperature sense of the term. :)
(4)spencer k.
woody allen said, "I don't eat oysters. i like my food to be dead. not sick. not wounded. dead." sick, wounded appetizers have never tasted so good! fabulous. absolutely. i went for lunch on friday, we started our meal outside in the garden, looking up the walls and onto the treelined tops of south end brownstones and the blue boston sky. i'm no expert on bivalves, but the selection our waitress put together for us included simply the best tasting oysters i've ever slurped (and chewed--i chew, maybe three to four times). some sparkling water and a glass of chablis helped wash the mellow salty taste down, and i was ready for my SOLE EN PAPILLOTE, made with tarragon, grapefruit, wax beans, and exquisite olive oil, all of which is wrapped in some kind of paper and baked with the fish to tender perfection. before i was to enjoy my sole, however, the skies turned from blue to ominous grey and the rain came waterfalling down in a crazy flash downpour. we quickly escaped to the dining room, and what a treat it was! it's a gorgeous room, intimate and friendly and yes a little loud but it was so alright. i was glad to begin outside, and for the main course move into the beautiful room full of very happy people and glasses clinking. and the fish was truly superb. at the table was also the lobster blt, with amazing and generous lobster salad but slightly overpowering bacon. also had was the spicy clam stew which was fabulous too--subtle olive oil and tomato base and you can be sure the clams were tops. a winning experience i hope to repeat many times. on my salary it can't be a weekly thing, but i'm going to see if i can shift some things around...
(5)Kate B.
Too hip for its own good. The food is nothing special and overpriced. The tiny space, with it's ultra-intimate open kitchen and low-ceilings, is not very inviting. I felt bad for the kitchen staff being so exposed. Our server wasn't very attentive and seemed to be annoyed with having to actually take our order and serve our food. Too much 'tude for sure.
(2)ack c.
Great selection of oysters, no doubt on that front, but the fried stuff is strange, dirty grease maybe? the trip to bathroom is downright frightening, and the vibe is weird. Admittedly, I've always only been there mid-afternoon, but to be honest, there isn't a lot of prep in a raw oyster so i don't see the point in chi-chi with something that simpe...
(3)Sandy S.
Cool place in the South End of Boston....I prefer to sit up at the bar and watch the oysters get shucked. The even had oysters from British Columbia! Low ceilings, cool music and a busy vibe - add some great oysters and some nice wine and you have a great place.
(3)Walt M.
I recently went to B&G to try the fried clams which were touted by Boston Magazine. I am a fried clam fanatic. Been eating them since I was a child. These fried clams are superb. Absolutely superb. I bit overpriced, but the rent certainly in the South End is higher than that of your average seaside clam shack! The service was good, the presentation was excellent and despite an $82 pricetag for 2 beers and 2 Fried Clam dinners, we were happy.
(5)paula z.
I was all geared up to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary at B and G, since I LOVE seafood. Except for the raw items, we were VERY disappointed! The raw items were great, fresh and very tasty. Everything else was pretty bad. Service, our waitress was OK, but the busboys and the waitress kept removing items so quickly that they actually took my cocktail sauce while i still had two raw items left to eat. Then, the busboy actually seemed to be standing over our table waiting for me to finish a roll so he could remove the plate. In addition, the menu was pricey for what we got...a very poor value. The fried clams were just OK, and were $25, but the fried oysters, billed as an entree, were six little oysters, fried and replaced on their shells, and that was IT! No fries or anything else...very misleading to call it an entree. It should have been billed as an appetizer. Here's the kicker, though, we were seated and in and out in 30 minutes, having consumed three courses!! It was Saturday night, and there was no line, so what was the rush? It's like they couldn't push you out the door fast enough. Not the "dining " experience one would expect given the prices. Oh, and another kicker, I think they valet park the cars in New York, because, no lie, we spent almost as long waiting for the valet to bring back our car (25 minutes) as we did at dinner...(and had almost as good a time!) Avoid this place. It is overrated and overpriced, except for the raw bar food.
(2)Erica R.
I love oysters and really wanted to try this place, so a friend booked a reservation for NYE to celebrate. When we arrived, we noticed what we thought was the front door wasn't actually the main door...and we discovered that it was just a walk around to the other side of the building. Oops! The restaurant had a couple small tables available, but we were seated in corner right next to the host/hostess stand. That said, it actually really felt like we were wedged in there. Since my back was to the host/hostess the entire night, I was randomly bumped a couple times. I was also super conscious of keeping my chair tighter to the table, since I didn't want to be in the way of the person at the stand behind me. It didn't really allow for a comfortable dining experience, unfortunately. Our waitress was nice, and when we asked about the oysters she would recommend, she gave us her pick. We weren't super familiar with any on the list, so we opted to try a mix of 4 different kinds. They were enjoyable, and if I were to visit this place again? It'd probably just be to have oysters. I also ordered the Lobster BLT for dinner, while my friend ordered the Lobster Roll itself. I don't know what I was expecting, but the Lobster BLT just...didn't do it for me. If anything, I considered the fries to be the tastiest part of the dish, which is weird because I love lobster! But I was just not enthusiastic about the taste of the sandwich. My friend mentioned at a certain point that his lobster roll wasn't really that great either...then we both thought back fondly on lobster rolls we had REALLY enjoyed at a different restaurant and agreed that's where we'd prefer to go back to from now on. Especially for the $$$-price range? We both expected much tastier meals at B&G. TL;DR Nice to try once, but wasn't comfortable or as tasty as expected. Price didn't equate to deliciousness.
(2)Stu A.
The setting is indeed an Oyster "Bar," as in when you enter it looks more like a bar than a restaurant with the counter seating, and several high top tables around the outer walls. Given the overall small size, reservations are tough to get but we went for early dinner and enjoyed it. Highlights included the cream of caulifloer soup with a great scallop in the middle of the bowl and a very well prepared swordfish (though at $29 it was a bit pricey for the size of the portion). The oyster selection was interesting in that more than half the options were not from New England. Service was generally attentive and they made a nice wine recommendation.
(4)Morten D.
We both had the Lobster Roll when we went here and it was amazing! The best Lobster Roll I have ever had. I often dream of eating that again. Only negative about the place is that there was only place for us outside and it was quite hot (100+ degrees), but when the food is that good we dont mind :)
(5)Jessica B.
Very attentive service and great food. I ordered the shrimp beignets and the seared tuna salad. I thought the shrimp beignets were alright but my boyfriend really enjoyed them, especially the sauce that came with it. The seared tuna salad had a great balance of flavors to it. My favorite dish was one my mom ordered--soft shell crab sandwich. That was deliciousss. Id definitely recommend.
(5)Suzanne C.
Love this place. Our service was incredible - lovely and nice. It's a casual spot that I would definitely go back to! We had: Variety of oysters Shrimp cocktail (they were giant!) Fried oysters Fried calamari Fish & Chips BLT Lobster roll Lobster roll Red leaf salad Everything was fab! The batter on the fried foods was light and not greasy. The fish was all very fresh. The consensus was that the BLT lobster roll was better than the regular lobster roll. The regular was great, but the BLT was extra special. They only do regular coffee - but it was very good.
(4)Allen H.
Seats are not comfortable enough. Appetizers are better than entrees. Overprice I'm terms of the quality of the food.
(3)Stomping S.
Excellent cold/mayo lobster roll, full of flavor. Exceptional heirloom tomato salad. Have been twice, loved it both times. But still haven't tried the oysters. My fault.
(4)HT A.
A never fail place. Always bustling . Great staff who will send you over to the Butcher Shop for a relaxing glass of wine at the giant butcher block table and call you back over when your table is ready. Counter seating is preferable and fun and puts you in the action whether near the shucking station or near the chefs . Great selection of oysters with my favorites from PEI and Nova Scotia . Lobster BLT is a standby and I never seem to mind the price once I dig in. Wine list is always great , but my wish for a sancerre rarely comes true but there is a santorini greek white wine on the list .
(5)Emma I.
This place WOWed me. Excellent service and perfectly executed dishes. Enjoyed the beet dish with pistachio as well as the best swordfish I've ever had! Chocolate tablet for dessert (with homemade fluff) was impeccable. A Boston native and living in LA, B&G served up a totally memorable experience for me and my fam. Classy!
(5)Shir L.
Came here with my besties for B&G Oysters "Big Shellabration" on February 24th. We wanted to do family style (ordered a bunch of dishes and shared). -Maine lobster roll It was nothing out of the ordinary. It tasted like the usual cold mayo mixed with lobster bits. The coleslaw was surprisingly light yet flavorful. The french fries were nicely served with herbs on top but it was soggy. -Singapore Chilli Crab (best dish that night) The flavors were nice and bold, but unfortunately it was a little too much towards the end since the portion size was rather large. The strong and bold sweet tomato chili sauce, gets to be too much. The coconut rice cake was nice, but lacked coconut flavor; the texture and taste reminded me of deep fried mochi (if there is such a thing). The bok choy that accompanied the dish had a strong fish sauce flavor, I'm not sure if it's suitable for everyone. -Fried brussel sprouts It tasted like baked brussel sprouts (which I'm used to having) but it was too salty towards the bottom. -Butter-poached lobster tail The tail itself was delicious but the sides that were served with the dish was bland. The oxtail ragù was salty, which made up for the lack of flavor on the polenta cakes. The cauliflower purée and the 3 bite sized carrots were flavorless. For pictures: khaoslife.blogspot.com/2… Overall, i would recommend the singapore chilli crab but unfortunately it was a limited special. Service was great, and I will probably came back to try other dishes.
(3)Wes D.
Positives: - Looong list of fresh oysters which were outstanding - Entrees were also out of this world. See pic attached picture of entire fried fish (forget the exact species). It was amazing. - Clam chowder (cliched as it may be) is fantastic Negatives: - Only serve beer/wine, no liquor license? Unfortunate. - Very cramped and small inside. Arrived a few minutes early and had to wait outside under an awning with rain blowing in sideways. Still, a definite dining destination that shouldn't be missed for fresh seafood fans.
(4)Terry K.
What's to be said about this place has been covered by the other 5-star reviewers many times over so I'll keep my review short! This is a sleek, modern take on the classic oyster house. I tend to like Barbara Lynch restaurants. And I love open kitchens...it makes you appreciate the food more when you see them operate it like a tightly run ship. Although my other favorite oyster bar in Boston is Neptune Oysters...I like both B&G and Neptune for different reasons. Their clam chowda is ridiculous & a must-try. Lobster roll is divine. There isn't a thing I didn't like on their menu. The restaurant is tiny but intimate, welcoming and a fun place to hang out.
(5)Benjamin H.
Very overrated, over priced, over hyped. There are so many better food options in the South End.
(1)Nicole W.
I had a perfect dining experience at B&G oyster. It was everything I hoped it would be and more! We had the tuna tartare and oysters to start, followed by the clam chowder (amazing, plenty of clams, not heavy like some chowders), the Black Sea bass (crispy and perfect!), and lobster roll (piled high with extremely fresh lobster chunks, not too much mayo, very crispy bun, yummy fries) . The atmosphere was fantastic- we dined in the courtyard under the cute stringed lights. Service was great, food was great, but then what do you expect from a Barbara Lynch restaurant? This place gets a spot on my Boston's Best List.
(5)Patti W.
After months of hearing about B&G Oysters, I finally had the opportunity to try it. I had a friend visiting from the Midwest, and wanted to make sure he was able to try some good New England seafood before he returned home. I'm a huge fan of Neptune Oysters in the North End where I live, but since they don't take reservations, I thought this was a great time to try B&G's. I was definitely not disappointed! We started with a plate of several types of raw oysters. All were amazingly fresh and delicious. We both got Maine lobster rolls as our entrees. So good! The one thing that really set this restaurant apart for me (besides the amazing food) was the service. Our server was extremely nice, knowledgeable and on top of things. I also loved the outdoor patio in the back of the restaurant. Perfect for a beautiful summer night! I can't wait to return to B&G's!
(5)Melinda N.
I came here on a Sunday night. We were late because we were looking for parking. I called and the host was very gracious and still took us. I wish they had $1 oysters but we got a dozen and paid between 2.50-3.40 each. They were delicious and it was interesting to debate with my partner the slight differences in the types of oysters. The server was attentive and explained things well. I got calamari and thought it was kind of plain (Legal test kitchen and Chau Chow have more flavorful calamari). I ordered dessert which was the ricotta cheese beignet. I had no idea what that was and the server likened it to something to which I still understand. Finally she said it's like a donut. That i understood and thought it was intriguing enough to try. It's like a hush puppy but perfectly spherical. The inside has a hint of ricotta and the caramel dipping sauce truly made it delicious. The restaurant is small but the decor is nice. Service was superb.
(4)Wendy T.
Quite expensive, but get the lobster roll. Service was ok. Make reservation if you don't want the long wait.
(4)David C.
As much of a mixed bag as Restaurant Week dinners are, Restaurant Week lunches are usually even worse. There aren't many top-shelf restaurants that are going to give you a quality three-course meal for $20.13. B&G Oysters, however, bucks the trend, offering a lovely, hearty meal for just a fraction of the cost of their regular menu. My dining companions and I feasted on fluke crudo, clam chowder, shrimp po' boys, dayboat scallops, milk chocolate budino, and blood orange pound cake, all of which, save for the cake, were excellent (some dishes, most notably the crudo, were surprisingly beautiful as well--see picture). It's a meal like this that makes me want to return to try the menu at full price. Isn't that what Restaurant Week is all about? (I'm going to have to start trademarking that line).
(4)Tuli S.
I came here during the summer of 2012. The outdoor seating was great. As soon as my friend and I arrived, we were seated and taken care of. We came to try the fried clams (I heard good things). They were delightful. I recieved a plateful of large fried clams, along with fries and coleslaw. The fries were great as well, the coleslaw I could do without. My friend ordered the calamari. The spicy sauce it came with was really tasty. We stayed here for a while and had a few drinks. I didn't feel rushed to leave or obligated to order more drinks/apps. Overall it was a great experience. Definitely on the expensive side, but worth it for the seafood. I will be coming here again!
(4)Gene L.
Went to this place for Restaurant Week and loved it! My biggest pet peeve of restaurant week is when restaurants have an extremely limited RW menu or their portions are tiny. B & G Oysters was the opposite. They had wonderful selections to choose from for appetizer, entree, and dessert, and each plate was regular size and delicious. The scallops were delicious, and I would highly recommend them. It's nice to sit out on the patio on a beautiful day (but remember it is first come first serve for the patio!). Will have to come back to try their oysters one day!
(5)Meatdowntown C.
It is okay but there are better places in the Boston area. The oysters were boring and the service was just okay. Limited wine list also. Nothing really memorable.
(3)Cheryl C.
Great overall experience. We sampled a little bit of everything: East coast oysters - nice briny finish West coast oysters - strong melon flavor, very clean taste Overall, very similar to Neptune. The variety is a little better at Neptune, but the oysters at B&G are shucked to perfection. We've had some shell pieces here and there at Neptune. Fried oyster - solid dish, though the fried aspect takes away from the oyster flavor Calamari - large portion, great dipping sauce, standard calamari Fluke crudo - best thing we had besides the oysters, great components on the plate Chocolate mousse - a great finish to our night, the sea salt and olive oil are a nice touch We visited B&G again and have to recommend the Asparagus with egg - best thing all night. It was an extremely well composed dish. Asparagus was seasoned perfectly, the egg on top was crispy with a yolk center, it came with dried red pepper stripes and was just seasoned perfectly. We both agreed that it was the top dish of the night - beating out even those awesome oysters!
(5)T K.
I went for the oysters but I was AMAZED by the SUGAR SNAP PEA SALAD! You have to try it. I'll be back for seconds real soon.
(5)Danny T.
I saw B&G Oysters on an episode of Best Food Ever and really want to see if its Lobster Roll lived up to the hype. Reservation: I placed a reservation for a Wednesday night per the suggestion of the hostess, but I don't think it was absolutely necessary. There were plenty of tables when we got to our time slot. Inside: I thought that it was going to be a lot classier based on how the restaurant was presented on the show. That's not to say that it wasn't well kept by any means. It was a small place with bar and table seating. I think you can eat outside too. Service: Our waiter was great and was really enthused about the items on the menu. I don't think I ever had an empty glass of water, and he checked up on us regularly. Food: - New England Clam Chowder. A little on the runny side. Most of my party thought it was par at best; one being from the Boston area. The clams were a decent size and tasty, but the soup could have been thicker in my opinion. - Fried Green Tomatoes. Tomatoes aren't my thing to begin with, but my girlfriend likes them and wanted to get some veggies on our meal. I was expecting little cherry tomato-sized portions, but it ended up being thick slices of heirloom tomatoes. The tomatoes were very sour and I wasn't a fan of the breading around it. It comes with an aioli, but it didn't help things too much. My girlfriend wasn't a fan as well. - Salmon Tartare. Not much different from salmon sashimi, except it was placed in a cylinder-fashion as most tartares are. It tasted fine. Just not filling nor exciting. - Lobster Roll. This was the whole reason we came here. We skipped out on all the other lobster rolls we crossed paths with at the other restaurants in Boston. It came out with a side of fries, cole slaw, and pickles. We split two orders between four people, and that seemed to workout fine if you're just looking for a taste. The roll consisted of chopped lobster covered in an herb vinaigrette on top of a toasted hotdog bun. I took my bite and right away got a taste of the herb vinaigrette, then the lobster. As I was chewing, I thought to myself "is this it?" Yeah, it was good. But it takes you to the realization that you're eating lobster on a hotdog bun. The lobster has a great taste and consistency. The herb butter is refreshing. But it all doesn't come together. HOWEVER, the pickles were a huge hit. Our table couldn't get enough of those suckers! I don't know though. $30 for lobster hotdog. Nah.
(3)Nikki S.
OMG the wait is ridiculous and no reservations. I tried 3x's to dine here while on vacation, that's some work for food. Was it worth it, yes I guess so. Everyone rants about the lobster roll.I actually do like it. It's the cold version with mayo and such which was nice a refreshing in mid August. But the oysters, delicioussss. I'm not too wow by oysters, slimy, gritty, sometimes I choke if they're huge. Dirty. Haha. But these were perfectly sized, some had a butter after taste. Slurped each of them up with out extra condiments.
(4)Amy W.
This was one of the most amazing restaurants I had the pleasure of eating at during my recent trip to Boston. My family and I were able to sit out on the patio on a gorgeous afternoon. I loved how the patio felt private and tucked away, but at the same time provided plenty of sunshine and fresh air. We also had a great waiter who was attentive and friendly. We shared a platter of several different types of oysters, which in spite of the season were all incredibly fresh and delicious -- the pinnacle of my gustatory experience in Boston, since coming from the Midwest I had made it a goal to eat some raw oysters before I left the coast! We had tartare, which was good but maybe not the best that I've had; I wasn't sure what to make of the sesame seeds and the chili oil. My family and I also shared cod with peas, carrots, radishes, pea shoots in pea juice. This dish was good, if a smidgen on the bland side, but the crunchy carrots and radishes definitely provided some good texture. I wish I had had a spoon to finish up the pea juice! My favorite was probably the halibut, which I thought was done better and more tenderly than the cod. It came with beet spaetzle and roasted beets -- very summery and absolutely delightful! We decided to get a dessert and I was quite frankly a bit disappointed by the rhubarb tartlet, which definitely had great flavors but I thought the pastry cream was a bit too runny for my taste. I definitely thought that it could have come together a bit better. Overall, a great experience and I'll be sure to drop by again on my next trip to Boston!
(4)Betty L.
Quick take: excellent selection of oysters, awesome service, but very pricey. It's a cute, subtly nautical-themed restaurant with an outdoor dining area (which we did not get to experience) and an open-kitchen - you can watch them shuck the oysters! We came for lunch having heard of its lunch menu and ordered oysters, the clam chowder, and mussels. Oysters: Oh, the oysters! I could go on and on! New to the area, we did not know which oysters we preferred, so we had our server choose a variety of east coast oysters to sample. The oysters came neatly presented on a bed of ice, with a card indicating which ones they were. Our server then took the time to point out which oysters came from where, just to make sure we understood. We went down the list and quickly discovered our favorites, of which we ordered a couple more of. They were well shucked, neat, and refreshing. Clam Chowder: Tasty, but too runny with an overwhelming flavor of bacon. The clams were decently sized, but I prefer my chowder thicker and less overwhelming. Overall? I'd come back, if only for the oysters. I've heard their entrees are delectable as well, so I'd like to give those a try.
(4)Margaret L.
Hooray! After being disappointed by Legal Sea Foods, I was in a desperate search for an amazing Lobster Roll and Clam Chowder, and boy did I find it!!! Fried Clams - wowie, these were good! Fried Oysters - these were good, but if you have to choose between the fried clams or the fried oysters, go with the fried clams Lobster Roll - yummmmmmy! You really get to taste the lobster and the lemon helps make the lobster super sweet. Clam Chowder - BEST CHOWDER EVER!!!! I wish I could have taken a gallon of this home with me! And those little spicy croutons are pretty amazing too! The restaurant is also super tiny so I highly recommend making a reservation first. I also loved the ambiance of the place, very cute and modern looking.
(5)Kristina N.
I ate here for the first time on Tuesday, May 21 and it was a great experience. From the outside, the decor (gates that are kept open have cute sayings), and the inside has an open view of the busy kitchen. The waiter made great recommendations for beer. My two friends and I ordered: a variety of oysters to start, the clam chowder, atlantic blue cod, skate wing with mushrooms and polenta, ricotta gnocchi, and old bay spiced chicarrons. We also had the ricotta cheesecake which came quickly, was very light, and we served in a mini mason jar. Great service and delectable food! I would come back here again. For my fellow diners, it would be advisable to make a reservation for peak hours several weeks in advance.
(5)Michael T.
Great place for oysters and drinks in the city. Cool kids too.
(4)Ash T.
I was having a terrific day back in Boston. So terrific that I didn't think it could get any better. Heck, I had finally gotten the city sports store branded shirt I never got when I actually lived here for half off. What more can you ask for? A delicious seafood dinner, apparently. B&G is located in the gentrified heart of South End on Tremont Street. It's easy to miss because it's half underground. Anyway, it's small inside, so reservations come in handy. Showed up for our reservation and were seated right away. I ordered the Atlantic blue cod tipped with fried oysters and served over eggplant in a green pea sauce. First off, the kitchen was ridiculously fast. The dishes came out within ten minutes of us ordering. The cod dish was immaculately executed. The fish was had a nice sear on the outside and was flaky on the inside. The taste really stood out. The two fried oysters on top of the cod were a very nice touch, perfectly crisp, and have seriously gotten me into a fried oyster fix. (I noticed they also have a fried oyster dish on their menu. I wish I had gotten that too). the pea sauce was very simple and light but really enhanced the flavor of the dish and gave it a beautiful color. bravo. We also ordered the smoked shrimp beignets. At $8 for five sizable beignets, this dish seemed like the value item on the menu. And, in keeping with what appears to be meticulous quality at this place, the beignets were absolutely delicious. Excellent experience, and a great homage to Boston's long history with seafood.
(5)Griffith G.
I love B&G Oyster. My partner hates seafood, so when ever I have the chance to dine alone, I head over to B&G. Yes, they have a great lobster roll ,and the fried clams are AMAZING. However their entrees are the real star here. Their pan seared fish selections are always outstanding and often less expensive than their signature lobster roll. I can make a good lobster roll at home, but their fish is amazing. They have a nice wine selection, and the fresh oyster selection is outstanding. It can be crowded for dinner, but they have a great lunch menu.
(4)Brent G.
living 3 blocks down and walking by almost every day - I just tried yesterday on a whim walking by with my girlfriend. We sat on the back deck which was so fun. The guy who seated us was super nice (short buzzed hair) we had actually just played beach volleyball and looked like crap! Was wondering if we'd get looks bc of it. Nope. Guy was so freaking friendly. OK. On to the food. Had wine, appetizers, and oysters. Apps were delicious and cheap $5 range. Oysters and wine were delicious. This was a tell all of your friends kind of experience. Will be back.
(5)Kelly C.
My first time to Boston and wanted authentic New England food. Read all of the reviews and found b and g oyster. Sat at the food bar and had the best meal experience possible. The clam chowder is the very best anywhere. It is on the thinner side which made it great. Had the sword fish and love it. I love this place so much that I came back twice. 3 days in Boston and I could not go anywhere else. On my second visit I was given a complementary desert. It was out of this world. Great food great atmosphere great service.
(5)Kim S.
I went to B&G Oysters for the first time with my boyfriend and we were really impressed and pleased with our meal. We stopped in at about 5:45 on a Saturday without reservations. They were able to seat us immediately, albeit outside on the patio (it's a nice patio, but was a little warm out since it was the summer and there are no fans). For our meal, we split: - Fried Oysters: Delicious! The waiter recommended them to us, and we were glad that he did. They were light and came with quite a bit of the homemade tartar sauce. Would definitely order these again. - Shrimp cocktail and selection of oysters: These were great as well. We just asked for a sampling of a few of the daily oysters and the waiter brought us the ones that he liked the best. They were very refreshing. The shimp cocktail were very good too--very very big shrimp! My only complaint is that they were a little on the pricier side... I would have liked more shrimp cocktail or oysters but at $4 a shrimp and on average $3.50 an oyster, I had to hold back. - Lobster BLT: This was very tasty as well; it was a mayo-based lobster salad with bacon, lettuce and tomato with coleslaw, pickles and fries on the side. In general, I am more of a fan of warm lobster rolls that aren't lobster-salad based, but this one was good. It was a little bit on the smaller side-- I know that good lobster rolls typically cost $20-30ish, but for $30, this was kind of small, and while it had a good amount of lobster in it, it wasn't exactly overflowing. The fries and the coleslaw were good. Overall, it was a great meal. The food was tasty and the service was good-- it's just kind of an expensive restaurant that has smaller portions.
(4)Erin B.
We had an amazing dinner at B&G Oysters. Following the excellent advice of another yelper, we sat at the big marble bar, which afforded us an excellent view of the ladies rocking the kitchen as well as a nice perch from which to enjoy the funky decor. We started with a selection of different oysters, which our server, Erin, expertly helped us select. She was a wealth of information about all things seafood and was great at explaining everything for us. Next we shared the watermelon salad (avec feta and watermelon sorbet) and the fried clams. Normally my gluten-free needs mean that I don't get to partake of fried delicacies but the folks at B&G were happy to use corn flour rather than wheat flour to accommodate me. This pretty much made my night. We also shared bowl of mussels and clams cooked in white wine and herbs. All the food was delicious. Except our dessert. We ordered the banana split made with house made ice cream. Sadly, the ice cream was a bit funky - granular in the way that ice cream gets when it's been thawed and refrozen. No stars off for that, though, because our server didn't miss a beat when we complained (not in character for us). She apologized sincerely and took it off the bill without any discussion. I have every faith that it's normally delicious and the way she handled it erased any bad feelings the ice cream might have spawned. This place is a real gem. I'm jealous of all you Boston folk who can eat there more regularly.
(5)stephanie f.
Our first meal in Boston and we LOVED it. My husband had his heart set at finding the right place to enjoy his first set of east coast oysters and you bet he found them here! These even beat his top spot from Ni9e restaurant in Vegas. We both had our first lobster rolls here too. I had the traditional and he had the BLT lobster roll. I preferred the BLT ( minus the B for me) over the traditional. I liked the ciabatta roll better and I liked the texture of the sandwich over all. The lobster in both was so sweet and fresh, not served dripping in butter like I expected. We were lucky to get a seat on the patio after waiting ~ 20 mins on a Saturday with no reservations. It was so perfect for our first 1hr in Boston. Our waitress was super attentive and helpful with oyster selections and meal choices. Definitely a go to place!
(5)Ezgi K.
This restauranta was yhe perfect spot for taking my family to a tasty lunch. From reserving our table, which was done with the reservation tool on yelp, to getting there with ease and being sat down right away when we called out our reservation, this surely was a no hassle experience. We ordered some oysters and calamari for an app and then four of us shared two bacon lobster rolls. The proportions were perfect since I definitely could not finish the who roll by myself. The fries and coleslaw were to die for and the lobster roll itself was light, unlike the overly mayonnaised roll I was expecting to receive, although the roll could have used a little bit more flavor. All in all, great food and fantastic location!
(4)Anthony A.
Great food! Went for my birthday with my fiancé. Good was amazing. Staff was amazing. Tables are close together but worth it!
(5)irene u.
When you come to Boston, you have to have a Lobster Roll... and so we did. But we also had the fresh crab BLT and we were throroughly pleased with our meal. The Lobster roll was seasoned perfectly and it didn't feel like I was ingesting a gallon of Mayo. Perfect amount of texture included in the roll and dusted with herbs. The crab BLT melted in your mouth with little treasures of crunchy bacon to accent the avocado, lettuce and tomato. Scrumptious... We also ordered a dozen oysters that were locally farmed and we were so delighted by the different flavors that each of the oysters carried. They don't make the oysters... but the chamapgne mignonette and the horseradish accent was a perfect pairing for the oysters! So the food was good! but you know what we also loved about this joint?! The outdoor patio with the white twinkle lights above. We went there for lunch, but its so whimsical and romantic. I be this spot would be perfect for a summer night out and a glass of white wine... or red if you're like me ;)
(4)Michelle C.
Ate here back in May and forgot to yelp it....Lobster Roll was taaaaasty! Saw this on Best Food Ever on TLC (so weird, my sister who lives in Texas called me and was watching the SAME thing! and we were both like we NEED to try it!)" so next time she was here visiting, we made our way to the South End on a beautiful afternoon and sat on the patio outside and split a lobster roll & calamari. Calamari was nice and crunchy with a yummy spicy aioli. The lobster roll had nice chunks of lobster w/ mayo and chives on a toasted bun. I would have given this place 5 stars but the service wasn't that great. There were only 3 other tables while we were there but the waitress was pretty MIA during the whole meal other than initially getting our drinks and order and she wasn't that friendly either.
(4)Hilary H.
I love B&G. The food here is phenomenal. The setting is glorious. The service: impeccable. Like I said, I love B&G. Summertime is the best time to come here, because you can sit in a little sunken patio area and dine al fresco. I'll take 1/2 dozen oysters with some sparking rose, and perhaps their scrumptious lobster BLT with it's subtle hint of lemon, too. I just happened to stumble upon this place last summer when I had a hankering for oysters, and I haven't been able to get it out of my head ever since! The only drawback? It's WICKED expensive. Yeah. Like, maybe $50 a person, if not more. But for a treat every so often, it's more than worth is. It's nestled into the hip section of the South End on a beautiful block of brownstones. It's private because the outdoor dining area is recessed into the ground, but it doesn't at all feel like you're enclosed. Beautiful.
(4)Mariano A.
If you have a craving for seafood and are looking for a place to go to satisfy that craving, then you have come to the right place. This cozy establishment is as good as it gets. The food and service are excellent. We walked in around 5:40 on a Friday evening and found open seating at the bar, everything after that was pleasantly relaxing and heavenly for my taste buds. The oyster menu included a variety of 12 different oysters to choose from, including 4 from MA which I would recommend...very fresh! I had the Black Sea Bass which was served with duck confit and yukon mille-feuille. The combination of the mille-feuille potato with bass, and the combo of the m-f with duck confit was a mouth-watering masterpiece! I couldn't have been happier with this dish. Ma femme ordered the salmon, which is listed on the menu as "Faroe Islands" salmon, basically one of the best sources of Salmon in the world (sustainable and minimal health risk hazard, low risk of PCB exposure, etc). Nice to see B&G Oyster offering this on the menu. We were both very happy with the food and the wine and beer selection. I noticed there is a patio in the back which I am looking forward to frequenting soon once the warm weather returns to Boston. Overall, 5 stars for excellent food and service.
(5)Bobby C.
3.75 stars overall. We were stopped by B&G for a late dinner, 9PM on a Wednesday night. The place was lively and pretty packed. 4 stars for service. Our server was great from beginning to end, checking up on us and refilling our water. I ordered the special of the day which was a pasta with lobster dish. My friend ordered the bouillabaiss. My dish was very tasty and creamy but portion wise on the small side. I ended up getting the Barbancourt Rum Cake for dessert. You could definitely taste the rum in the cake. If you have a sweet tooth, I'd recommend the dessert. 3.5 stars for food.
(4)Bill S.
Excellent food, great service and the cooks prep everything in view of the bar. Valet service is available for $16 - helpful since there is no parking in the neighborhood. Limited beer selection, but one was a favorite of mine: Harpoon The Long Thaw White IPA, so I can forgive them for that. Kinda pricy, but you get what you pay for.
(4)Alyn P.
I heard this place got voted for the best chowda by Boston Magazine. So, I had to go see for myself. This is a quaint restaurant with bar seating and table seating. I sat at the bar and loved it because I could see the chef's in action. I'm a sucker for watching them cook and plate everything. I think it adds to the dining experience. They had a separate oyster menu with what they had available for the evening. Then of course I got the chowda to see what the hype was about. I found it quite flavorful and hearty! It was definitely obvious (both visually and taste wise) that it was made fresh. It had bacon, which for me makes everything 10 times better. The consistency was on the lighter side and for me, I prefer mine more creamy. I think in terms of consistency, I like the chowda from Legal Seafoods more. But this chowda definitely wins in terms of freshness and flavor. Tried the chocolate mousse and birthday cake on their dessert menu. The birthday cake was okay, I found the cake itself to be a bit too dry for my liking. I really liked the chocolate mousse - definitely heavy on the toffee flavor and you could really taste the sea salt. I love the sweet and salty kind of compliment so this one was my favorite between the 2 desserts I tried. Staff were all nice and our waitress interacted with us a good amount at the bar, which I liked. I also felt like I wasn't rushed out when closing time came around too.
(4)Priscilla T.
3.5 stars to be exact. It's just a hair short of 4 stars because I expect close to flawless for a Barbara Lynch operation and the fried shishito peppers were uber soggy and my black cod was a tad...bland. Tasty but bland. However, the halibut was crisp and yummy, the outdoor patio is cute and charming, and the service is great and friendly! I'd recommend this for a friends' lunch or a family-in-town outing.
(3)John H.
Oysters are fantastic. That being said-- other menu items seemed a bit pricey for the quantity (small) and quality (good but not great). Tip: this place is TINY, crowded, and loud-- so plan to get there early for apps, then head somewhere else for dinner.
(4)Erin L.
Perfect Saturday afternoon lunch place. Fried oysters were on point and lobster roll sandwich hit the spot.
(5)Catherine G.
What do you do when you've got your parents and uncle with you in a town that you're just dying to leave after a rough wedding? You go to B&G Oysters! Just kidding. I don't know how we got there. I love, love, love oysters. And after dragging the family around, I figured we had to go in. It was Sunday, warm for the time and everyone and their pet dog was out walking. It was about 230pm this last Sunday - had to drop off hubby since he had a flight to catch for a business trip- but since my uncle was with us, it was again 4. We sat at a table outside. A bit snug than I like, but we managed. We ordered mussels, and a few different types of oysters. Mussels were unusually spicy, but my mom seemed to like it. And there was lots of hard bread to soak up the broth. (I assumed that the bread was supposed to be hard. Was it supposed to be hard or soft? I dont know...) For our entrees I ordered us a bunch of whole clams, with and without fries, etc. I think it was a foreign concept to my parents - eating fried seafood - but they seemed to enjoy it. I didnt think the batter was quite as good as what I had the day before. It was just a tad soggier, but still it was yummy. The service was good, and for the most part attentive. Just not so good with details as she had made my $100 tab, $150 by adding extra stuff on it. I used to work in the food and bev industry years ago, so I'm always tabulating stuff as I order it - bad habit. So I knew what to expect and right away I knew it was wrong. She corrected it and asked me to make sure it was right. The oysters were fresh, but the ones we ordered were a bit on the small side. My mom said there wasn't much to eat... but I thought it was good. The only reason this place doesn't get 5 stars is because they didnt seem to take care of the chairs and stuff as they should. If you're going to seat people out of doors, make sure the chairs and tables are neat and clean. I didnt quite get that feeling as I kept wiping at each chair before the person sat down. Little things matter when you're talking about the whole dining experience!!! But go and enjoy some oysters folks!! It is a little pricier than some places, but worth it in my opinion.
(4)carol a.
Ate at B & G for the first time when we were searching for a good oyster bar to entertain an out of town guest who loves oysters. Two of us had the fish and chips which were to die for. The batter was perfect and the aioli that came with it was delish. Loved the touch of the bread and butter pickles. The other two had oysters, which they loved. One said they were the best they'd ever had. We were very happy to hear that the restaurant gets twice daily delivery of oysters so you know they are super fresh. Yes, they are a bit pricey, especially for lunch and the menu is a bit limited for those like me who are allergic to shellfish, but overall a very positive experience. Will definitely be back the next time we're in the area.
(4)Tyler W.
Well Michelin, it is safe to say that you are indeed overrated and biased. A couple months back, I had the pleasure of going to the Water Grill in downtown Los Angeles, a restaurant that holds 1 Michelin star (at least when they had a Michelin guide in LA). It was very good, but in my opinion B&G Oysters is definitely better. We ended up at B&G at 5:30 on a Saturday (the only res we could get a week ahead of time). It seemed like a great place to take my aunt and uncle while they were in town doing touristy things. For our apps, we ordered the fried clams and the mussels.The fried clams were clearly pretty fresh and the dipping sauce was great. The mussels on the other hand were spectacular. We agreed that these were some of the most tender mussels that any of us had ever had, and they were quite flavorful as well. For our entrees, my aunt and uncle both ordered some fish that they had never tried before, ordered the salmon, and my girlfriend ordered the lobster roll. The lobster roll was quite good and very lightly dressed (the way I like it). She also had coleslaw and fries on the side. While the coleslaw was pretty standard, the fries were very good. I loved that they decided to opt for tarragon and cilantro on the fries. For my salmon, I have to say that this was easily the most crispy fish skin I have ever had on a piece of fish. The fish itself was quite tasty as well. Oh...and the sauce...the sauce, so good. The chorizo added an element of saltiness that I thought was welcome and often lacking from fish in restaurants. We opted to avoid dessert and go out for ice cream instead, but overall it was a fantastic experience. The service was generally good as well. I feel like I need to try the Butcher Shop now as well...
(5)William M.
We spent a lot of time reading about restaurants in Boston and finally picked B&G. Sadly, we were not impressed. The hostess started off poorly by offering only a seat at the bar even though there were many open tables - she returned some time later offering a table if wanted one - we stayed at the bar. We tried 3 kinds of oysters and liked them all, especially those from British Colombia. The cod main course ok but unexciting. The crab sandwich was better but kind of hard to eat for dinner in a fine dining environment. Delicious chocolate mouse with sea salt on top for dessert.
(3)Eeeeestar T.
Oysters? They have oysters here? B&G's lobster roll is absolutely incredible, complete with the toasted hot dog bun, huge chunks of lobster in a barely-there dressing, and a light dusting of chives that adds the perfect onion-y punch. The accompanying coleslaw, pickles and fries are good enough to eat on their own, and round out a perfect New England meal. As good as the oysters may be...I'm saving my precious stomach space for this lobster roll!!!
(5)Jill G.
Food was good. Not as amazing as I would have thought. Disappointing entrees. Apps were good. Service was eh. I think the entrees were way over priced for the portions. Full blog review: cuisinequeen.me/2013/07/…
(2)Brendan T.
A very strong Four and a Half...This place blew me away the last time I was working up here extensively 5 years back and it had not diminished in quality one bit in the intervening years between then and now, during my most recent sojourn back up here working for the past few months. I know this place is not Barbara Lynch's flagship restaurant but it should be, hell it might as well just be the entire cities! The small garden level space is tight in the best way offering a intimate, darkly lit romantic setting to enjoy perhaps the most perfect rendition of New England Seafood to be found anywhere. The raw bar selection is a thing of beauty, an oyster lovers dream, with a thoughtful ever changing selection of a large number of varieties, the majority from nearby waters, served at just the right cold temperature. The lobster roll is incredible, probably only rivaled by the two brilliant version served at Neptune Oyster Bar in the North End, although sampling the ones there now will almost guarantee that you must endure a unfathomable wait, which isn't so much the case here, although waits are not uncommon. The lobster BLT is equally decadent and delicious. Any fish I've sampled has been perfectly prepared and Ive been having frequent dreams about another lobster enriched item on the current menu, Orechiette di Aragosta (lobster orechiette) the succulent sweet meat wonderfully balanced by the the perfectly cooked pasta, pearl onions and fava beans. One item however blew my mind more than any other and that would be the unbelievable clam chowder. I am confident enough to declare it the best in the city as well as the best I have ever had and you simply must try it. The consistency is neither overly thick nor thin and the balance of ingredients and flavors perfect, topped off with perhaps the most ingenious addition of all, a spicy croton that will make you forget any oysters crackers you thought you might want. Seriously you just need to try it. OK you ask, so whats holding you back from the full five stars. Well unfortunately the service, while often professional can veer into smug self satisfied attitude territory all to frequently, the most egregious offender often being the first person you encounter, a rude hostess who is among the worst Ive dealt with in any town. Regardless all is mostly forgotten when the food starts coming out and this place is a definitive must on any visit to town.
(5)Craig S.
On a day we really needed to be distracted the entire staff came through with surprising professionalism and skill. The food was amazing and the service was far above standard. Recommended: Fluke Crudo, Salmon w/churizo, and Oyster sampler all very good.
(5)Eric W.
This is one of my favourite restaurant in town.! I love the lobster rolls here
(5)Liz B.
Well, with 500+ reviews, I'm not sure what else I have to add to the pile, but I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to B&G with my guest, YCCFL (Y chromosome carrier from London). YCCFL, during his first visit to Boston, wanted to try a proper Boston clam chowder, and after doing a fair amount of research (thanks yelp), I made a reservation here. The restaurant itself was small and casual but bustling. We were led to an oddly shaped table at the end. I got a couple oysters which our server chose for me, and they were delicious. YCCFL got the clam chowder, and enjoyed it. I tried some, and was surprised at how bacon-y it was...too much, and overwhelmed the clam flavor for me. B&G's version is definitely not my favorite version of Boston clam chowder I've tried. I got the lobster roll, which was fan-freaking-tastic. Moist succulent juicy bits of perfectly seasoned lobster, mouth watering buttery roll, crisp fries, and nicely sauced coleslaw. We got the kale salad on the side, which was just OK; I've definitely had better versions of tuscan kale. Service was excellent and attentive throughout the meal. With a couple glasses of wine, the bill came to almost $100, which seemed super high for such casual food, although the quality was pretty darn good. Given the expense, I'd save this for special occasions only. It was a great choice for a visitor who wanted to sample typical Boston seafood dishes, though.
(4)Chah A.
Wine and oysters good, and expensive. Chowder was delicious w/ a tad too much bacon and bacon flavor. Watched chefs prepare everything with bare fingers/hands, including smushing down lobster salad into rolls. Hopefully, those same fingers/hands weren't used for wiping sweat off chef foreheads. :(
(3)Sebastian N.
I'm not sure why this spot is so jammed, it's an ok place, but not worth the hassle if you don't have reservations. The oysters were delicious, I'll give them that. I came for their legendary lobster roll, which was under seasoned and dry. The misses ordered the JONAH CRAB FRA DIAVOLO which was spectacular.
(3)Sarah T.
Slow service. Food was ok. Definitely better in Boston. Neptune is way better and cheeper.
(3)Melanie M.
Came here for lunch on a weekday and sat at the bar. I love being able to watch the kitchen and they put on a great show. It's nice to know your food is being handled well. I got a few oysters from their raw bar and they were fantastic. I also got the lobster BLT as my main dish. They serve it with plenty of crispy fries. The lobter itself is served cold. The next time I got back, I think I will just try the plain lobster roll without the bacon, it distracted me from the lobster too much. It was also served on a very toasted bread, and I personally prefer a softer bread. All in all it was still very good. My sister ordered a fish dish and it was to die for. Perfectly cooked, moist and flaky. Mmmm. Probably much healthier too.
(4)Julie P.
I'm a huge seafood fan, but I've never really liked oysters. Then I came to B and G Oysters and discovered that I do like them! It was my birthday, and I wanted to be adventurous so I asked the waitress to suggest some oysters. She chose three different kinds, and I loved them all. They were fresh and salty and a great way to start off the meal. I had a bowel of the clam chowder, which was good. I agree with another reviewer who said that the spicy crouton was too spicy. I took one small bite and then passed it over to my husband. The clam chowder wasn't as creamy as the chowder I had at a few other places so it wasn't quite to my liking. Each restaurant seems to make their chowder a little different so don't expect to love every bowl of chowder while in Boston. I orderd the BLT with lobster, while my husband had the seared yellowfin tuna. The BLT is on thick, crusty bread; the bread seemed a little too thick for the filling. I think a softer or thinner roll would have been better. I'm from Oklahoma, and if there's one thing that our restaurants do really well, it's bacon so I wasn't overly impressed by the bacon in this BLT. The lobster was, of course, fantastic. In the end I ended up ignoring the bread and bacon and just ate the lobster with a fork. The French fries were okay; they were nothing to write home about. The pickles were great! The mild tartness of the pickles was a great contrast with the lobster, and I alternated almost every bite of lobster with a bite of pickle. My husband loved his tuna and raved about the pine nuts in the dish. Who knew pine nuts could be so tasty? If I ever get a chance to visit Boston again, then I would definitely go back to B and G Oysters, but I would probably keep it simple and just order the lobster roll.
(4)Fan L.
The food was very good,and the waitress served us was very nice. But the host was not kind````well,when we came in ,I asked for a table outside, but he said ppl are waiting for that over 1 hour,blabla```so we were arranged at a corner behind the reception. Then several ppl came in and the host always said so:"sorry, we dont have much table```but I'll check outside,```oh,come with me`````'`then they went to garden tables...,! My friend suggested me to give less tip, but I thought the food and our waitress were all good````so, as usual~
(4)CARLA S.
I really enjoyed they clam chowder. On our visit to boston, we had clam chowder at 4 separate restaurants. In order of preference 1. B&G, 2. Union House, 3. Island Creek, 4. Neptune. We had the lobster roll.
(4)Back B.
On a Saturday night my wife and I were able to sit on the patio and enjoy the mild weather. For appetizers I tried the fresh crab and she had the clam chowder, both were great. I ended up ordering the lobster roll and she went with the fried clams for our main meals. The lobster roll was decent, not overly loaded with mayo, or celery, or added spices to the diced up and cubed lobster. The lobster meat tasted fresh, clean, and the bun itself was a simple hotdog roll, which was not buttered or heated up. I also ordered two German blonde beers, which were awesome. The stinging price tag in the end of your meal reminds you that the seafood you just ate is pricy because of shipping costs. Head to the cape for localized and less pricer seafood options. While in our beautiful home of Boston, B&G Oysters is a very good choice.
(5)Pennie A.
Came here for a family celebration and felt cheated by the time we left. When we arrived, we were told our table wasn't ready (even though we could see an empty table waiting) and were charmed into going to the butcher shop next door: "please have a glass of wine and we'll come get you in 15." After 25 minutes, I went back to b&g and found the same table (still) waiting. "Oh, didn't they tell you to your table was ready? Come back over and we'll take care of you!" But we ended up paying for our own wine next door--even though we were given the distinct impression we'd be comped for the inconvenience! The concession they made instead? An app of fried oysters that half of us couldn't eat due to allergies. While the food was overall delicious (with the exception of the uber expensive bland lobster roll--$37? Really??), we have a bad taste in our mouths and will definitely not be returning here again.
(3)Rachel N.
ZOMG how have I not reviewed B&G yet -- it's absolutely my favorite jam in Boston -- the place that after spending three years gorging myself on delicious food in the Bay Area, reaffirmed my faith I will still be able to get a decent meal in Boston every so often. Oh, and it doesn't hurt that it's right around the corner from my pad -- but I digress. If you eat seafood in any way, shape, or form, go to B&G. Stat. Obviously the oysters are baller, but it's really the cooked fish preparations that have blown me away. The plates are not only gorgeous, but the fish is consistently cooked to perfection and the accompanying veg/grains are outstanding. Recently, the lobster bisque that came w/ the halibut was "waiter, gimme some extra bread so I can get all this lusciousness off the plate" good, and the broth in which the mussels are cooked was also worth a unladylike slurp. The fried calamari is hands down the best I've ever eaten -- delicate and light, you can actually taste the little squidies as well as the glorious fried batter -- a win, win, winnnnn. Oh, the only mediocre part of B&G is the dessert -- recently, a chocolate cake was really just like a dry choco muffin (nast) -- I'd double up on savories here and then stroll to Picco for ice cream instead. I recommend making a res, as wait times can approach 90min on a Saturday night, but if you're willing to wait it out, head across the street to The Butcher Shop (BL's other venture in my gayborhood), grab some vino, and wait for your phone to ring announcing your table. Whether you're seated at the bar or at a table, service is friendly and attentive, but not oppressive. Din for 3-4 generally runs $75/pp, incl a bottle of wine + tip.
(5)Mark D.
Great seafood/oyster bar in the theater district. Food is delicious and the deserts are great. I, of course, had the flour less chocolate cake with a lemon accent. IT was very underrated. Only two beers on tap so rather limited from that POV, but a nice wine menu. Smallish place overall that is largely taken over by the bar area and an open kitchen arrangement. There's no hiding anything.
(3)Aaron D.
The fact that I'm actually writing a review on Yelp let alone in appraisal of a place should say enough, so I'll make this short. It's the first time I've ever heard my parents say they liked an oyster bar better than Pearl in the West Village, NYC. That should be enough.
(5)Yvonne C.
We order few oysters and one fish entrees. The oyster were good but a little expensive. (And that's the reason instead of giving 4 stars I give them 3 stars.) The fish entrees was pretty good but still a little expensive.
(3)Andrew W.
The service here is outstanding. I went here for dinner on the night of the super bowl. Had a botel of wine, the tuna tartar, the golden tilefish, and then the pear dessert. I thought the tuna in the tartar could have been cut smaller, but it was still a good dish especially with the added grapefruit. The entree was great. The key was bringing all the different ingredients together and eating it in one bite--to truly enjoy the complexities of the dish. Unfortunately there was a slight issue with the dessert. An oyster shell had been confused for a pistachio. When I informed the waiter she handled it fabulously. She profusely apologized, gave us the dessert for free, and offered to let us bring another one home. It was definitely a great experience and I will be visiting again.
(4)Sara C.
Oysters are divine. Olive oil is first rate (though theycould uograde the bread). The rest is good (we got a white fish and arugula salad). The dessert falls short - lime tartlet was way too saccharine sweet. But service is top notch. Our main complaint was that we were cold throughout dinner. It's a small place and every time that door swings open a stinging draft comes through. Turn up the heater a notch, please!
(4)Sandra S.
B&G is the real deal and never disappoints. I have eaten here at least 30 times since moving to the South End and honestly have never experience poor service or bad food. The staff knows food and they've educated me on the flavors of oysters found around the US. They know their wine also and will pair perfectly. The atmosphere is one of the primary reasons I love this place. I can sit at the marble bar with a glass of wine and watch the chef cook my meal. It's like a live version of your favorite show on the Food Channel. I've resisted reviewing B&G for a long time because what used to be a neighborhood hotspot is now sporting a long wait time for a table. I decided to share after reading a few 4 star reviews. I recommend starting off with one of their specials for an appetizer or whatever chowder they're serving. I would also skip the lobster roll (which many reviewers rave about) and order instead whatever local fish is on the menu. The current halibut choice is stunning. Also if they ever have a tuna appetizer, get that. And of course oysters.
(5)Ann W.
Best Oysters Ever!! Four of us ordered two each, then our entrees, but ended up getting another round of the rest of the oysters we hadn't tried. We loved all of them! We've been to several places in Boston (including Neptune Oyster) and these are by far the best. Our server was wonderful and our entrees were delicious too (especially the black bass!). We sat outside and as promised, they turned on the heaters when it got colder. So cute outside! Can't wait to go back!
(5)Julie L.
Went for Restaurant Week lunch. Best deal ever! 1) Real menu items: I can't stand when restaurants participate in RW and then dull down their menu to obviously cheaper options. Try to offer your regular menu items. After all, RW is the best time to try out a new resto. Make it count! B&G did just this and I will certainly be back! 2) Extra deals: I love that B&G offered some specials for RW. 4 oysters for $10!! Who can say no?! Of course you have to have oysters when you come here. 3) Food: The stand outs were: +Scallops w/ farro - AMAZING. Two gigantic sea scallops perfectly cooked. The farro and such was hearty and a great compliment. I was stuffed after this and completely forgot dessert was coming. I would regret that later. +Fries - couldn't stop. Some of the best I've had. Crispy outside, great creamy potato inside +Chocolate mousse - THIS WAS AMAZING. And like I said, I regretted finishing every bit of my app and entree b/c I had no room for this. I pushed on, but after half, I had to watch my husband eat the rest of it. It was topped with toffee, salt, and olive oil, served in a rillettes jar. Very generous portion and perfection. I would name this as one of the must-eat desserts in Boston. The mousse was light and rich at the same time. Not overly fluffy (like most), but delicate and full of flavor. The bonus was the toppings - b/c really, the mousse didn't need any additions to be standout. However, I couldn't get enough of the toffee, salt, or olive oil. They were perfectly measured out so every bite had a little. WOW. I think you get the idea. 4) Service: Excellent and what I expect. I love the laid back environment, but it still felt very special. I will definitely be back to attack the rest of the menu!!
(4)Brian D.
I came here for a girl that I was dating's bday as she is a oyster head. Overall, it was okay, nothing great, nothing terrible, just okay. Neptune Oyster blows this place well and high out of the water. Don't get me wrong, this place is still very good, but for it to enter in the same category as Neptune or Island Creek, no way Jose. I mean, for me its hard to give this place a 4 star because the prices and value you get just isn't there in my opinion. If you come here, you are not going to be given a poor meal. The ambiance here is actually quite charming, giving you this basement/bar type feel, but the prices are a bit high for the food. Again, the food is good, but just not quite worth what they price it at. Neptune can get away with it because the food is truly exceptional. ICOB can get away with it because the drink menu and food is also of high caliber. B&G, I'm not convinced yet. When I was here I got the fried clams which were very good, but not AS good as those other two spots in the city. So I have to write them down a bit. Maybe another time or two as a patron here I'll be able to warm up to it, but thus far, I'll just give them a 3 - ONLY comparing them and holding them to the standards of the other big-boy oyster/seafood spots.
(3)Carter D.
I had a great meal here but the service costs them a star. Everything I ate was excellent, starting with a variety of oysters, then fried clams for me cobia for my date, but the service issues started with the drink order. My date ordered some wine, after she tasted and approved of the the wine our waiter had brought, the guy just stood there for a minute, when she finally went to pour her glass herself the guy had some slightly rude remark for her about the whole thing. It was all over pretty quickly, but it was something that stood out. Also, when our oysters were brought out the waiter failed to tell us which were which. My date and I discussed which ones we liked better than the others (of the four varieties we ordered) but ultimately had no clue what any particular oyster was called. They were all very good though. The entrees were great, definitely the best fried clams I've ever had and the cobia was a very well constructed dish. The room is small and intimate with an open kitchen, and we were greeted warmly when arriving and departing. It's a nice place to go for a date, and I doubt there's anything on the menu that isn't excellent, but for the same price you can get the same quality of meal with much better service at Island Creek Oyster Bar.
(4)Jon-Paul B.
Excellent place. I sat at the bar and sampled about 5 dishes and was not disappointed with any of them. The oysters are also fresh and delicious. Staff had a point of view and can guide those slightly intimidated toward great decisions on dishes. Lovely vibe, great wine and beer selection and a fabulous menu. Any dish with a filet of fish is worth it.
(4)sasha h.
B&G is the clear winner in my book as far as mid-tier boston restaurants go. Food is delicious and presentation is akin to the rest of the Barbara Lynch restaurants. Service is good - they are friendly and attentive (e.g, fold your napkin when you leave the table) but also go above and beyond if you need something. As a warning, This place can get extremely busy so sometimes you might need to flag down someone to find your waiter I've come here for every type of occasion and its never disappointed. This place is good and everyone knows it so make a reservation for Fri - Sun well in advance. I love the fish entrees - have had the hake, halibut, char and swordfish and all have been cooked to perfection and tasted oh so yummy. Definitely put this place on your list if you haven't been.
(5)Soo L.
We had: 1. Selection of raw oysters - delicious! 2. Clam chowder - very very good. 3. Seared shrimp Cobb salad with grilled avocado - shrimp was served with head on, but otherwise deveined and shelled - perfectly cooked. Great presentation. We were visiting Boston for a few days. Service was great and we would definitely return for another great meal.
(5)Eric F.
Insane clam chowda. The best in New England!! Perfect french fries and pickles. Bacon jam was ridiculous and I'd order it alone. Lobsta lova roll was good, not incredible but definitely enjoyed the lightness of it. Service could be a litte better, definitely some attitude
(5)Diana Y.
The lobster roll is the cold version. It's okay. The oysters, while there's a nice variety, was also just okay. But this probably dependent on which you ordered. Nice setting though--I like the option of the cute outdoor seating. But food wise, I'll probably pass next time.
(3)Hillary w.
I had high expectations for this place. Wish I could give this place 3 1/2 stars. The oysters were fantastic. My boyfriend & I had a great dinner. He had fried clams and I had the cobia and we shared a little. It was a nice mix of something traditional and something new. The service was lacking. Waiter suggested a wonderful wine but when he poured it for a tasting and I said okay and nodded and he just stood there. I asked if I was supposed to pour it myself. He clearly wasnt paying attention because if he was listening or made eye contact he would have noticed I said the wine was fine. Also, when they dropped the oysters, no one described which were which. The restaurant is pretty but we sat next to the hostess stand and in my line of vision was a patch of drywall that needed to be painted. It killed the ambiance for me. I would come back for just the oysters but I would rather go to Island Creek for dinner because the overall experience was better there.
(4)Kristin H.
Holy mackerel, this place is good! We were in Boston for a work trip and a friend recommended this place to us. I'm glad we took her up on her recommendation. The food, service and atmosphere here are fantastic. It's an intimate setting, perfect for a date or a close group of friends. Our server was an oystaaaa expert and recommended some oysters that blew our tastebuds out of the water. I got the impression the entire staff were oystaaa experts so you should be fine no matter who you get. If you have any food allergies, you've come to the right place. My friend is allergic to gluten, dairy, and black pepper. The server and chef went out of there way to create a special menu to accommodate her. The dish she chose was a masterpiece that left me drooling over her shoulder after I took a bite. Make sure to make a reservation because this place fills up fast, especially on the weekends.
(5)Alfred D.
Had the Lobster BLT roll. Delicious? Yes. $28 Delicious? No. No. No. Just barely better than the lobster roll you can get at Quincy Market, except that one is much cheaper. It wasn't even the BLT that made it better, but the larger chunks of lobster in it. To top it off, the fries sucked..dripping oil and see-through. Yuck. Friend ordered a fish plate for about $30, and out came this 3-inch square of a "filet", and filler all around it which is supposed to constitute as a "meal". Seriously? Would you like to know how many whole fishes I can score in Chinatown compared to what you gave me? You get more action off a Filet-o-Fish at McDonald's....and you can get fries and a drink and not come close to $30. Ugh, no thanks. This is clearly a proverbial toilet for rich people to flush their money into. The rest of us can go eat a real meal or two for the same price.
(1)Darcy P.
I've rated this place before and gave it a 5, i believe, because usually I LOVE it. like love it love it. but went recently and it just wasn't up to par. it was entirely related to service though. Just got oysters and wine and, of course, those were amazing. but from moment we walked in, host was borderline rude. kind of robotic with no smile and just sort of bossy: FOLLOW ME. WATCH YOUR STEP. "Can we sit on that side of the bar?" (lots of seats open) THAT'S WHERE I WAS GOING. umm...ok dude. pretty sure you weren't but even so, don't yell at me about it (ok, he didn't yell but he did almost reprimand). then bartender asked for order. normal. asked for description of some of the oysters and she said, not nicely, have you ever had oysters before? Yep. "well what do you want to know?" I mean, seriously? paying over $3 per bivalve, they have no descriptions and yes, i know west coast are creamy and less briney but come on. i go to b an g instead of neptune bc of the service. she wasn't mean...just not nice and not helpful. we're spending a lot of dollars in a short amount of time so come on. anyway, my fav bartender Tara no longer works there (staying at home with her son) and my fav manager went west so hopefully this isn't a sign of the way things are at b and g now. i'll give it another go and hope this was an aberration bc I used to love this place but...
(3)Sadie H.
Best fried clams in Boston. Great service and terrific oysters. If I could eat here every night then I would -- I assume that would be heaven.
(5)Dennis K.
I am a huge oyster lover and have hunted down dozens of various restaurants in the area. I just think B&G is to expensive plain and simple. The most I have paid for them anywhere . Everything is overpriced there! If you love Oysters you know you can get great deals for as little as a dollar each, i.e. Coda. I will not divulge my secret joints around town.... Happy Hunting..
(3)M J.
I'm taking off two stars because it's crazy expensive AND though high prices don't throw me off IF everything is perfect, they don't hit the perfect mark here. there needs to be perceived value at these prices. here's why i was not feeling that value,in no order: 1. the serving size for the $27 lobster roll should be consistent. on my last visit, it was borderline puny AND smaller than on several other visits. certainly not the sized you see in photo's on here. 2. $12 for a glass of wine -- at lunch? you might want to consider expanding the list to include some lower priced items. also, tripling the cost is NOT ok unless you're in the fine dining category. 3. bar seats - i love bar seating, but knew immediately that my hair and clothes were going to reek after lunch. the exhaust system ought to be cleaned. 4. service - it was just ok. water not refilled and i was looking for our server several times, though they were only 60% full and fully staffed. 5. overall, the food has been fantastic, but on my last visit, it was not perfect, and something left a funny taste in my mouth. i was left with the feeling that something, slaw, salad dressing, was less than perfectly fresh. yuck. the BL empire has grown and i'm wondering if things are slipping.
(2)Jeff F.
It's impossible to rate B&G without comparing it to Neptune. Here's how I'll break it down: - Lobster Roll: 2 star at B&G. Shocked people are raving about this. Neptune blows it away (small, barely toasted bun - for the same price as Neptune's Lobster roll.) - Fried Clams - B&G takes the edge with 5 star to Neptune 4 star - Scottish Salmon - awesome, recommended - Roasted Lobster was good, but at $38, I think it was a little overpriced given what was served - Oysters - 5 star quality and presentation like Neptune, but Neptune has a wider selection - B&G corn on the cob as a side - solid Neptune is 5 star, while B&G is 4 star, but you have to consider that B&G both takes reservations and has outdoor seating.
(4)Jiyea C.
Solid! We went for lunch to try some oysters, and since none of us were oyster experts, we just asked the server to give us a sampler of his choosing. All of them were delicious, but I like the creamier tasting ones. Such a vague explanation, I know, sorry! Also tried the halibut and it was seared to perfection! Crispy on the outside, perfectly cooked on the inside. The presentation was also beautiful! A little salty though. Also at our table was the tuna tartare sandwich and the lobster BLT. I think that while all the dishes were good, they seem slightly overpriced for what they are. One thing about my experience though, I thought the AC was cranked up too high considering it wasn't a particularly warm day. Note: I would suggest that tall people sit outside if it's a nice day; the ceilings are kind of low and you might feel claustrophobic, haha. Service seemed slow considering the restaurant was pretty quiet...that was slightly unexpected. If I return (South End is kind of out of the way, and I prefer Butcher Shop across the street anyway), I'll probably just come for oysters and bubbly.
(4)Chelsea C.
I came here a few weeks ago for a friend's birthday dinner. I don't eat seafood, so when looking at the menu online I was a little worried about finding something I could eat. I made a reservation for our group and when we arrived we were seated at a great little corner table with a clear view of the oyster bar/kitchen area so we could see all the action in the kitchen. I love kitchens that do this, it's almost like getting a show with dinner. Everyone I was with enjoyed their seafood dishes that they got, my friend said the oysters she got were the best oysters she's ever had. And the birthday girl got a lobster roll that she absolutely loved. I ended up getting an order of french fries and baby brussel sprouts, the fries were delicious and the brussel sprouts had an unexpected but welcome kick to them. I loved my dishes, and would definitely return even though I don't eat seafood! The service was impeccable, the second my water glass looked a little empty, someone would be there magically to refill it. The restaurant itself is on the small side, but very intimate and I think it would make a great place for a date or drinks and dinner with friends. As far as I could tell every seat in the house had a view of the kitchen area, although I would definitely like to sit at the bar so I could have a closer look. Great restaurant, great food, great atmosphere, what more could you ask for??
(4)Colleen H.
Certain things I have to be in the mood for, sure. Oysters at B&G? I will date you anytime. Just call me. This place has THE BEST sunken patio in Boston. It's so charming and romantic. Inside the decor is a bit...hard, but it all just evaporates around you as you slurp down those heavenly oysters. I honestly can say that I have tried oysters just about everywhere they are served in this city, and B&G by far has had the most knowledgeable staff and variety I have found. They'll help you contrast your selection, or recommend vessels based on your preferences (you know...east coast/west coast...meaty, delicate, all that good stuff) Also, because this is part of the lovely Barbara Lynch endeavors, the wine list is spectacular. And yes, of course they have options other than oysters. And yes, of course they're delicious. Barbara Lynch will never fail you. I promise.
(5)Duke C.
YUM! YUM! YUM! Great selection of bi-valves on the half shell. The smell of the calamari frying alone is enough to make you hungry. As others have commented, the lobster roll is delish although they give you an excessive amount of fries. While I like to get my money's worth, I also hate to see food waste which is why I deducted one star. Overall, definitely on my hit parade for Boston.
(4)Michael D.
Definitely worth the price tag on the restaurant week lunch.( yelp.com/biz_photos/mxjV… ). Here's what I got: Steamed Mussels ( yelp.com/biz_photos/mxjV… ): Subtly salty, light wine broth.. went very well with the mussels. BLT with fried oysters, served with a HUGE side of fries, sweet pickles, and coleslaw ( yelp.com/biz_photos/mxjV… ): Not the best BLT ever, but my first with fried oysters in em. And anything with fried oysters is better. Just like bacon. I don't think I saw this option on their menu, but I feel like if ya ask em nicely, they'll make it for you anytime! For dessert, we got the chocolate pie, but I unfortunately had to head back to class (service was a little slow), so I wasn't able to try it. Overall, I'd come here for restaurant week, but the prices are a tad bit too high for me to come any other time..
(4)Shuchi K.
Been here for dinner and lunch and it's an equally great option in the South End. I just came back from a date there. We ordered everything to share, which I highly recommend. It was just $35 each for a tasting of three oysters each (2 from Massachusetts and one from the West Coast, I must say that the latter was the best one due to its sweetness!). We also ordered the tuna tartare, which I don't love. The tuna is of utmost quality but they add fruit to it, which makes it a weird surprise. The lobster roll is very good. BOTTOM LINE: the fish is sublime but the preparation could be even better.
(4)Stefano Z.
Sat at the bar because we had no reservation, so not really able to comment on service. The lobster bisque was great, but the fried clams were just normal. In general a reasonably good place to go to, I would go back, but I'm not enthusiastic.
(3)Laura M.
Very cool space--I love that you can see every inch of the kitchen! It's perfect for an intimate dinner for two. We (of course) started with oysters, paired with some sparkling white wine. They were fresh and delicious (and very clean--no grainy bits to bite down on in horror). I got the Jonah crab fra diavolo which was absolutely out of this world. The pasta was so tender it could only be made in house and the sauce with crab was bright and delicious. My fiance got the black bass which was another delicious choice. I would absolutely go back here again.
(5)Dennis C.
Got a whole bunch different oysters, raw and fried, and they were all quite delicious with their own uniqueness. Also tried the lobster roll, which was good but still weird to have lobster as a sandwich.
(3)Christine B.
I so wanted to love B&G. I've lived in the South End for years and stopped by recently on an impromptu visit. My boyfriend and I were seated on the patio, which was lovely despite the threatening storm clouds--if only the food had been as excellent. The chowder was great, despite the fact that the serving barely fit in the palm of my hand (for $14). He ordered the oysters, which had shell bits in them, and the lobster BLT that he was "meh" about; I got the B&G "hot dog," which was sub-par to a Fenway Frank (or Johnsonville brat). Even though I don't get the hype of B&G and it was expensive for the quality, I'd be game to give it another try. There must be some redeeming factor, other than it being an eight minute walk from home. Right?
(2)James A.
We're in a generous mood. Fried clams (as appetizer) overcooked and greasy. Lobster roll tasteless. Wine selection (by glass) limited. Cole slaw (or whatever it was) terrible. We would wait 3 hours for table at Neptune Oyster Bar before we would come back here. My wife and I have eaten at three other places in the South End the last two weeks (Hamersley, Beehive, Metropolis) and this was, by far, the worst. The service was very good.
(2)Michael C.
We came for to B&G for restaurant week but ended up going for mostly their regular lunch menu and got some oysters. We got their Salmon Salad Sandwiich, which was good but wasn't all that impressed. After we got an assortment of oysters, but oysters are oysters. Lastly we had the their lobster roll, which was big and tasty, the french fries ended up being the highlight. I've had better lobster rolls at Kell's and Neptune. This is a small establishment. Service was Ok the day we went, the bartender seemed a bit overwhelmed. I would definitely give this place another shot.
(3)Michael F.
I've been to B&G a few times over the years, however my last visit really made me realize winter, is Not the time to go... Every winter season there sidewalks are not kept. This last Tuesday was a winter storm, afterwords we went out, and the entire neighborhood was cleaned up, sidewalks front stoops and all... But when it came to the corner of Tremont and Waltham St. Where the restaurant is... Completely unkept! No salt or sand... Not even a thought of shoveling.
(4)Jennifer S.
I had always wanted to check out this place but never got around to it... until recently, YUM!!! The restaurant is really small, cozy and dark but i liked the atmosphere. I could see the bar from where I was sitting & it was fun to watch all the food come out! (I kept staring to see if it would come to our table). On to the food... - the clam chowder is a must! It's not as creamy (which I didn't mind) and its a bit spicy bc of the spicy croutons! YUM! (5) - BF ordered the BLT with Lobster based on yelp reviews. It was good but at the end of the day, it was just a sandwich with fresh ingredients... so definitely high quality lobster but i don't think it blew us out of the park (4) - waitress recommended the halibut, so I ordered the halibut but then the swordfish came out... to be honest, i don't know my fish to well so i just ate it anyways! it was YUM so no complaints there!!! Until bf realized that the sides were wrong. we had to flag down a busboy to ask what i was eating and found out the wrong dish was sent to us. we didn't want to make a scene out of it (& it can happen), so we said it was not a problem. however, i thought the server would at least say sorry but she didn't. when we mentioned, her response was "oh." that's it. she didn't really check on us either. oh well.. the swordfish dish was still delicious so that was a 5! but service was a 3.5 overall, i would've rated this place a 5 but with the mixup and all, 4 it is. (for now)
(4)Laura A.
Great oysters, lively scene, but the rest of the meal/experience was not really memorable. Come to B&G for the oysters and maybe a cocktail, but otherwise it's not worth the price. You can have a far superior dining experience elsewhere in the South End.
(3)Dan L.
Went to B&G with great anticipation, excited to try the oysters and see what unique offerings were available. We had been dying to try a Barbara Lynch establishment and had received a number of positive reviews. We sat at the bar in close proximity to the kitchen. Staff was incredibly knowledgable and attentive with extensive knowledge of the wine list, very refreshing! The biggest issue we had was the staff (cooks) decided to eat a number of oysters behind the bar while we were ordering our meal. I realize the kitchen is small but there is something un-professional about the kitchen staff eating oysters in front of the customers. Needless to say, we refrained from oysters that evening.
(2)Debora L.
Came here on a busy Saturday night when the two hour wait at Neptune deterred us. Trendy seafood restaurant with romantic lighting inside, and lovely heated wooden patio outside decorated with twinkle lights. We felt the clam chowder was a pass : it had a strange vinegar aftertaste. The lobster roll was decent but nothing remarkable. What we loved most, though, was the massive amount of fries! Perfectly seasoned and lightly fried. Not too salty, crunchy, starchy, cold, soggy, or oily. So many places get fries wrong, but they do it right. So, yes, 4 stars for the fries!
(4)Krista U.
patio evening seating is a must
(5)Abby F.
Awesome Service, Awesome food. I will definitely go back for their lobster roll!!!
(5)K K.
Service was great, fun to sit at the bar watching food prep. Everything we had was good, but the order of preference was steamed littlenecks, oysters, lobster roll and sepia/ spaghetti with octopus. Service was friendly, we did not feel rushed. With ressy we were seated right away. Strong wine list.
(4)Amy M.
I came to B&G Oysters back in May during Memorial Day weekend when I came to Boston on a weekend trip. The place was a bit cozy and on the small side with some seating outside in the patio. We waited a little bit for seats since we didn't make any reservations. It was about a 10 minute wait during the weekend for dinner. Also, the restaurant has an open kitchen so you can see the madness that goes on behind the scenes. That was an interesting experience. For appetizers, we had the fried oysters with home made tartar sauce! That was to die for! The fried oysters with the tartar sauce was soooo amazing. It melts in your mouth! Since we thought that wasn't enough for us, we decided to also try the raw oysters and selected different types of oysters from different places. They tasted interesting. I've never really had raw oysters before this so it was a nice experience. For entrees, I ordered the Lobster BLT Roll and he ordered the Lobster Roll. Both of them came with french fries. Both the lobster rolls were amazing! I never knew anything could taste so good. Again, this is the first time I've had a lobster roll and I'm glad this was the first place I have tried it at. Now, I just have to try the lobster rolls from different places. I didn't know what to expect before coming to this place, but I enjoyed my time here and especially, the food! :) If you're in Boston, definitely check out B&G Oysters and don't forget to make a reservation.
(5)Carl C.
Way overly priced but the staff is awesome! The average price for an oyster is at least $3.15 that in my book is just plain ridiculous! I can get local NC oysters picked by local fisherman for about $14 for a dozen! My bill was $82 for a salad, six oysters and two glasses of wine WTF is going on here? Just plain fuk!n sick if you ask me.
(2)Stephen T.
My first experience at this place was an amazing one. First off, try to make a reservation. We got there at about 6 on a Saturday, and it was fully booked. We were able to get bar seats after about 15 minutes though. That being said, bar seats are the way to go. Watching the professionals in action is a great show with the dinner. Oysters - Cold, Clean, Fresh. They were fantastic. Couldn't ask for anything more from them. Clam Chowder - Not bad. It wasn't very thick, but had a great deal of clams. Fried Oysters - Very yummy. Normally I enjoy raw oysters way more than cooked ones, but these were cooked quite well. Very lightly breaded with a good sauce. Scallop Carpaccio - Also very good. I couldn't get a good taste for the scallops though. There was too much sauce involved. Pickled mushrooms on top were also tasty. Spottail Bass - These people know how to cook fish. Crispy on the outside, soft and moist on the inside. Just the right amount of salt to make the flavors pop. Service at the bar was excellent. Our server showed up at all the right times and kept our wine glasses full without being intrusive. Ambiance feels cozy with a touch of industrial. Noise level is a little bit high due to the size of the place. Overall, the food and experience was excellent. As other reviews have stated, the prices are high, but definitely worth my experience there.
(5)Keith S.
Went on a Sunday afternoon and found the place half full...which was expected as it was Sunday before turkey day and 20 degrees and windy outside. Sat at the bar, which we enjoyed, as it gives a perfect sightline into the food prep. Started with a half dozen oysters, per staff's recommendation, and they were fantastic. Wife had the Crab Bisque which was a 4/5 as there weren't any chunks of crab. With a still full stomach from our calzones from Bova (North End), we split the Lobster Roll. In short, not the best I've ever had. It is good...don't get me wrong. It's just that the lobster is chopped (I prefer chunks) and kinda dry as it has no mayo base...which I prefer. Just a preference thing. Overall, place is very clean, staff very attentive and the food was what we were hoping for.
(4)Dan L.
This place is OK - it's overpriced for what you get and it's obviously trying really hard but for me it comes down to the food and taste. The server was awesome - really great sense of humor and fun. I got the lobster roll, which by itself is 4 or 5 star, but I had several of the other dishes and they were not nearly as good. I liked the cole slaw a lot and the fries were pretty standard. The sturgeon was well-cooked, but pretty small and expensive. I ended up being glad I didn't get it. I also figure I just don't like the taste of sturgeon - it's very strong tasting - but it was well-prepared. The fried oyster appetizer had a delicious tartar sauce but the oysters themselves were too salty and you couldn't appreciate the oyster flavor at all. The chowder was pretty good - lots of nice big pieces of real clam and a thinnish but tasty soup base. It did take quite a while to get our food but we had bread, drinks and conversation to keep us occupied.
(3)Victoria H.
I went to this wonderful but small restaurant on my birthday, it was very relaxing. I felt like I was at an NYC type atmosphere. I tried their wine list. Their list was filled with very tasteful flavors. As for food, I had their delicious fried point Judith calamari, with a side of their house French fries. Their tarter sauce matched perfectly with the calamari. I also tried their raw Oyster bar. The Oysters were fresh, it had a nice sea taste to it. As for dessert, I tried their roasted apple tartlet. It was very moist and sweet. The flavor to the tart, sealed the deal to the end of a wonderful dinning experience and a excellent evening. I will defiantly come back to B&Gs, because of the atmosphere and food is worth coming back for more.
(5)Carol K.
This is my kind of place. Yes, it is a bit pricey but I thought the evening and the meal was the best I have had in a long time. My only complaint was the wine list. We found it expensive and not inclusive of California wines. Ok, that aside, why 5 stars? The steamed clams. Dip your bread into that red broth and whimper. Secondly, the best lobster roll I ever had. Again, moan. The oysters were good and fresh. I thought it was fun to do an oyster tasting from various local regions. But, the steamed clams and the lobster roll were the stars of the evening. We were seated at a table right up against the open air kitchen. We enjoyed the culinary show. The tables are close together so we got to chatting with our neighbors on Boston sightseeing tips. Tres fun and oh so delicious. Did I mention the steamed clams and lobster roll? Thanks fellow yelpers for your recommendation!
(5)Nguyet N.
Great atmosphere. I liked the calimari, just enough seasoning. Tad pricey but well worth it for a guaranteed fun night.
(4)Anton K.
Awesome oysters and other seafood. Great atmosphere and the layout of the restaurant is cool.
(5)Diane Z.
I guess this is a four-star place... For Boston. Maybe my standards are too high, but this place disappointed me. The oysters were poorly shucked, with bits of shell everywhere. We shared the special salmon tartare appetizer. It was unpleasantly warm and not very flavorful. The lobster roll was tiny and you can get better elsewhere (eg. Neptune!). The Sturgeon was cooked very nicely, but the lamb that came on the side was like dog food -- soggy texture and bland. But the atmosphere is very cute. The open kitchen is nice and it's cool to see everything happening. Bottom line, go to Neptune instead.
(3)F R.
It is hard for me to read some of these reviews and believe we were at the same restaurant. I ate at B&G on Monday, June 2 with two friends. First time for all of us. None of us was impressed. All of us said we never return. We started with calamari which was like chewing on rubber bands in tasteless batter. Two of us had the cod entree which was served in a large plate which only highlighted the small serving which was poorly seasoned. The only positive was the fried clam entree which was nicely cooked in a light batter served with a generous helping of fries.
(2)Russell B.
Neat place. Elevated versions of classic casual seafood dishes. Service was not as attentive as you'd expect in such a small place. They forgot a dessert we ordered but recovered quickly and comped it. I would crawl to the ends of the earth for the popcorn panna cotta.
(4)Andrew A.
Great neighborhood spot with awesome food and superior service. A nice plus was sitting next to Robert Duvall and Billy Bob Thornton :)
(5)Corona W.
My rating of three stars is based on the lunch menu for restaurant week 2011. I hard the lobster arancini, the mussels and the peanut butter chocolate cake. While good, the food didn't blow me away. My chocolate cake wasn't too heavy and not overly sweet, but presentation was lacking. It was a piece of chocolate cake lying there in peanut butter. I tried my friend's panna cotta and it was definitely better. I may be back to try their oysters -- Maybe I'll bump my review up to four stars.
(3)Alistair B.
Overpriced and service is slow. Food is OK.
(1)Ave H.
I chose B & G's for my 24th birthday dinner because I have heard so many good things about it both on yelp and in general. I was not disappointed! We had a reservation for four at 6:45 but we ended up arriving half an hour early - we had expected a wait but were seated right away. This place is quite tiny but organized well for the space. Only complaint about our table is that it is connected to the table next to us so there was very little sense of privacy. We (of course) started off by ordered raw oysters. They have the oyster bar set up a la carte where you can order as few or as many of each as you would like. On this occasion they had about 11 or 12 different oysters (organized by location) I had one of each of the top 5 (the ones located closest to us). My favorite by far was the one for Beavertail, RI. One of my dining companions had the crab salad which was a very interesting interpretation - the lettuce - which was shredded to appear kind of like thick noodles - was coated in a green dressing with crab meat, tomato, avocado, and pineapple tossed in. Another of my dining companions had the fried oysters which were presented very nicely and looked delicious. For my entree I (along with another one of my dining companions) had the lobster roll. I felt compelled to try this because it has been raved about not only on yelp, but on several blogs and (apparently) a TV show. It was pricey at $27 but certainly worth it. The lobster was seasoned perfectly and not overwhelmed by mayo or seasoning. The fries were delicious and crispy. The coleslaw was great and very refreshing, and the pickles were bread and butter pickles - yum my favorite! The only reason I didn't rate this 5 stars is because of their incredibly overpriced wine list. There is literally only one option for a SOMEWHAT affordable bottle. I expect wine to be up charged.. but I also believe there should be at least a few options for those of us not willing to spend $80+ on a bottle.
(4)Pamela S.
What can I say that hasn't already been said? Amazing selection of oysters. It was fun to compare the flavors and textures of each. I'm always amazed how different oysters taste. We had only East Coast varieties since we live in the West and have more access to those. Our server was very friendly and knowlegeable without being overly talkative. Even our 10-year-old joined in on the oyster tasting and of course loved the one called Mermaid. They were oh so sweet and briny and it was like tasting the ocean. On to the lobster roll... The bun was buttery and melted in your mouth like a cross between a croissant and custardy french toast. The lobster was sweet and soft, not chewy at all. It had a minimum of dressing (I'm not sure they even use any mayo on it) so that the lobster flavor was the highlight, with just a little celery and fresh herbs for texture. I only wish the lobster roll was bigger. My daughter had the mac & cheese, which was super creamy and rich, made with parmesan, so it had a little tang. We sat on the patio, which was much nicer than the very noisy inside of the restaurant. I would recommend making a reservation because they sat us right away and there were lots of people waiting for tables throughout our meal.
(4)Jack L.
My first 2-star! The interior is beautiful with the marble countertops and I loved sitting at the bar; however, the lobster roll is 1) served cold (yuck) and 2) nowhere on par with Neptune Oyster. Delicious, fresh selection of oysters from around the nation and great service. I really wish I could give it a 4 but I've been spoiled by Neptune and it can never compare.
(2)Michael K.
I would have given it 5 stars if it weren't for the lack of attentive service. Food was excellent and presentation was wonderful. Waiter and bus-girl only came by sporadically to refill drinks.
(3)Jeff M.
I've been here three times. Once for lunch last summer. Once for lunch this summer. And once for dinner this year. Lobster roll was much better last year than this year. This is a great neighborhood restaurant. But for how overly simple everything is cooked it cost way too much . Skate, season, olive oil, hot pan, butter, baste with baby vegtables isn't to hard to cook well - no sauces or interesting sides. If B&G brought down their prices I'd give it 4 stars. (For example, four diver scallops at $25)
(3)Jared S.
Might as well add my 4 stars. I had the prixe fix tasting menu for NYE and enjoyed it. Cute little space with attentive and friendly servers and very high quality seafood. Some notes: No liquor, just beer and wine :-( I really wanted a martini. We were unfortunately seated at the table in the right-hand corner adjacent to the entrance...DIRECTLY in front of the AC. Cold....literally. Server gave great suggestions for oysters from the 12 different varieties when I told him what I normally look for. Hamachi crudo was divine. The remaining dishes weren't perfect but still great. Both the halibut and the scallop were a tad overcooked. And I believe it was the halibut that was served with a saffron sauce that was just way too saffron-y, it smelled and tasted a little like bleach. But used sparingly, it did complement the fish well. I'm sure I'll be back.
(4)Mike D.
Visiting from out of town and decided to try this smart, trendy place. Having a dynamic choice for oysters is exceptional but as they are both fresh and tasty is spectacular. Wonderful wine list, great food choices, tremendous service...what else can you ask for in life?? Even returned for oysters this afternoon....bravo and well worth the price.
(5)Nate C.
It boils down to the fact that this restaurant is okay for a couple going out for a quick bite. Anymore than 3 people and you're asking for trouble. Instead of posting a 5-page long rant, this is my boiled down opinion: 1) The service is atrocious. The hostesses were too snarky to at least try and be accommodating for our large party (it was my birthday, and we called to reserve a table days in advance.) Several of the waiters seemed to not know what they were doing, and were very stubborn and rude in their attitude towards our group. 2) Everything took too long. We had a 9PM reservation and didn't sit until 9:30. The waitress didn't take our drink orders until 10. Our food sat waiting to be served to us from the kitchen for at least 5-10 minutes just getting cold. 3) The food wasn't up to par with its price tag. I have no problem whatsoever spending 25-30 bucks for a medium-sized portion of mussels, except that ours were way undercooked (many of them were barely open/ nearly impossible to remove from the shell.) 4) When we tried to mention any of these problems, every staff member we dealt with was either dismissive, unattentive, or just plain rude. We had a party of 9 people, and you could have easily made 400-500 dollars. But because of your horrible attitude and horrible service, you got half that, a bad yelp review, and never again will I think about recommending this place.
(1)Eva B.
We had the best lobster roll in Boston. It took a while to have our table ready but the service was great,the oysters were delicious and the hole experience was very good.we will highly recommended .
(5)Ben K.
Wow what an awesome spot. The decor is clean and simple. The layout is open and if the place is not crowded, it feels very nice to be inside, highlighted by sitting at the white marble raised bar, where you have a fantastic view of the chefs who are in the kitchen right in front of you. This lends itself to a very enjoyable process of watching your food being prepared. The oysters, sitting fresh on a bed of crushed ice are shucked in front of you, and are delicious. They had about 10 different kinds when I was in, but the Moonstone from Rhode Island were my favorite. Delicate and simple flavor. Then I had the yellowfin tuna club sandwich. This was most likely the best club sandwich I've ever had. Rich, sushi grade tuna, sliced avocado and a light tasty aioli on the top level. A large piece of crunchy romaine and tomato slice on the bottom level. All between three slices of buttery toasty brioche. I LOVE THIS SANDWICH. They serve it with some wonderfully fresh crunchy frites tossed in parsley and with a nicely shaped mound of bread & butter pickle slices and cole slaw. I could literally eat this sandwich every day for the next month.
(5)Christopher W.
Woohoo, the lobster roll was ridiculous! It's been over three months since I ate here and I remember everything about the meal! Although I had expected the tempura squash blossom to be much larger...it was quite delicious. I'll attempt to post a picture of it after this post. We also had raw oysters from various parts of the US...quite enjoyable. I am definitely becoming a fan of them! This is when I learned that my cousin's also have expensive taste buds lol. The three of us had a good time here. Plan on spending at least $40 a head if not more. This was a very memorable last meal in Boston.
(4)Daniel L.
I love to sit at the bar and watch them shucking oysters and clams. The clams melted in my mouth and there was a large oyster selection, even some from west coast British Columbia (my hood). The Lobster roll was recommended from other reviews and we found it to be over rated and chewy. I would have preferred a crab roll. But that was the only low point. The rest of our experience was truly top notch. Theres a reason this place is so popular with the locals.
(3)Jim R.
Best oyster selection on the planet! Winning wine list to match. Nuff said.
(5)Amanda R.
If you go for lunch, you have to try the Yellowfin tuna club sandwich. I don't care if you don't like tuna/seafood (because you will after you eat this) and I don't care if you don't eat pork, this sandwich is a must. I, for one, don't eat pork, but when this sandwich arrived with bacon, I accidentally took that first pork filled bite of decadence and did not regret it for a second. I ended up taking the bacon out, but WOW, this sandwich is truly worth every single penny. I also had my very first oyster experience here and I am now spoiled for life.
(5)Jeremy H.
well I have been trying to go here for months, and whenever I try to get in they are booked and have a huge line. So I finally got in the other day. First of all the food lived up to the hype in the flavor department. I went with three other people and here is what we had: Oysters. They were great, and the selection was fantastic. They were perfectly shucked with the muscle severed on both sides of the flesh, and the stomach perfectly intact. The cocktail sauce and mignonette were superb! Chowda. The clam Chowder was one of the best I have had in my life. It was not too thick, but creamy without being watered down! The pieces of clam were plentiful and were not so big that you could chew them for an hour or so small you could drink them through a straw. And then the lardons they used were not chewy and exploding with flavor...this was a fantastic chowder. Wait did I say it yet This was amazing. There was one thing that shocked me...it was $14 for a bowl...a little pricey in my mind. I had skate wing. I love skate wing, and it is hard to find. First of all this dish was fantastic. The skate was perfectly cooked and buttery. The fiddle heads were fantastic. The red potatoes were great, but there was not much food on the plate. But it was definitely worth it. Halibut and scallop risotto dishes were also awesome. Had a bit of each one. Liked them. not as good as the skate dish. The risotto was perfect though. My wife had the Lobster roll. Let me tell you it was very good. The fries were also great. The only problem I had was that this was a $27 lobster roll. Are you freaking kidding me!!! The price gouging on this dish made us question the rest of the meal. This is why I am leery to go back....I do not like overpaying. Also The waitress. She seemed to have no interest in her job. She rattled off the specials in an uber-apathetic monotone. All of her answer about ingredients were answered at a blistering pace in a monotone like she was reading them, but any suggestions we asked her came with interest and enthusiasm. This was another turn-off. Overall this was a very nice dinner. The price was a little over-the top and the waitress was devoid of personality. But the interior was very nice, and you could see all the cooks working (which was great). It is definitely worth checking out once...but that is really all it is worth.
(3)Bill J.
I've been to b & g a dozen times while in Boston on business. It never ever disappoints. Tonight was no exception. Sublime RI oysters. Unmatched fried oysters and a seared halibut over lobster bisque. I will return again and again.
(5)Steve S.
Whatever happened to the endless fried clam dinners for 6.99 at the ole Hojos(Howard Johnsons)...Copies amounts of fries and fried somethings for one low price. Well, B&G is a different experience to say the least. First it really is a gorgeous interior with an open kitchen and bar set up with about 30 tables. There is a cool outside patio as well Menu is naturally based around seafood, oysters and clams. Had the fava bean and grilled asparagus salad with Greek yogurt dressing...Great dish as there was many different flavors and textures in every bite. For the main, I had...you guessed it: the fried clam dinner. Haven't had fried clams in years, but they were delicious. Hojos was about strips or dried out pieces of clam like substance(what do you want for 6.99). B&G is about the bellies aka a real clam. Great place for seafood
(4)Megan D.
Literally got off the plane, dropped my bags off and went straight to B&G Oysters for lunch with my boyfriend. This place was recommended to us by a few friends, as we were in town for the weekend and looking for some local cuisine. Unfortunately, B&G didn't live up to the hype. The food was fine, the service was so so, but the AC was lovely (it was 93 and humid). We started off with a appetizer special--corn beignets served with a mustard aoli, which were delicious. I then ordered the asparagus salad for lunch. It was TINY (perhaps a handful of lettuce at best) and had way too much dressing. My bf had the lobster roll, which he thought was good, but not $27 good. Our service was fine, but not what you'd expect when eating an $80+ lunch. Overall experience could have definitely been better, prices could have been lower, but the AC was spot on!
(3)Santi C.
Judged solely on the food quality, this is a four star restaurant. However, for the price we paid, we expected to have good service as well. The service is soooo slow, and the face of our server is so sour. Sorry, thanks to that I can only give you a three star rating.
(3)Ulli K.
Definitely a place you want to get a reservation on Friday or Saturday night. Had a lovely time here. Loved that it's not huge, loved that it has nice ambience. The food was delicious....we had a special: Baked lobster with, you know, a CUP FULL of melted butter served seperately. Nom nom. There was just nothing to complain about, including the delicous Pecan Pie and Rum Cake desserts. Appetizer was the Shrimp Cocktail which you order by count (so 6 or 8 shrimp or such). we loved it. nice touch: We were asked if we needed a cab or anything else when we left. I thought that was lovely. Also nice: The Butcher Shop is right across the street for a last drink.
(4)Rob F.
What can I say this place is my favorite in Boston. Aside from the wait to get in you just can't get any better. Fresh oysters, Lobster BLT is amazing and the fried clams OMG ! It's great to sit at the bar, have a great glass of wine and watch the chefs prepare your food. Simply amazing, highly recommended.
(5)Aaron W.
Having never eaten raw oysters, I was a tad concerned about eating at a place with the very word in its name. Our rez was very early by choice and unsuprisingly we were the first party in the place. We absolutely bombarded the very friendly and knowledgeable waitress with probably dumb questions. While my new wife decided she didn't care for oysters (not the restaraunt's fault), I devirginized myself and then turned into a complete oyster slut. I carefully ordered a single oyster which proved to be DELICIOUS, which quickly was followed by six more. I left the oyster choice completely up to our waitress who smoothly and slowly graduated me from a noob to an intermediate oyster eater over the course of the apps. Also with minimal input, she managed to suggest a great wine (we ended up ordering the same bottle twice). All in all a great experience, don't believe any review that tells you otherwise. The clientele is not hipster either as Zagat will tell you, it was well dressed and apparently wealthy people. The place is a tad pricey but well worth it.
(4)Caesar R.
Went here for lunch today, Christmas Eve while in Boston. Got here first before the rush. The place is on the smaller side, but uses space very effectively. The bar where we sat gives a direct view into the kitchen and the oyster shucking/fryer end as well. We did have a reservation, but went early anyway. Good thing we did, the place filled up quickly. We sampled a bunch of oysters from the east coast and one type from the west coast. We asked the guy shucking them which were best and went with his recommendation. We were not disappointed at all. The mignonette and cocktail sauce were the traditional compliments to the bivalve platter. Additionally, we had the lobster roll and the lobster cassoulet. Both were outstanding. The lobster cassoulet was served a little differently than expected not being in a cauldron/casserole type of dish was a refreshing change of pace for this usually gut busting heavy dish. The lobster roll, could be showing a strong rivalry against my favorite lobster roll*. (That being said, this is only for a cold lobster salad type of lobster roll and a non-Maine lobster roll as well) The fries and the house made bread and butter pickles that came on the plate managed to be gone without merely a trace of a crumb. The service was extremely friendly and offered good suggestions for food and drink. Look forward to a return trip to B&G next time I am in Boston.
(4)Gablesgirl M.
The food was simply delicious. My husband said it was the best lunch he has had, ever. We ordered the clams, lobster roll, lobster blt and the fish & chips. Absolutely perfect! The service was extremely friendly and offered good suggestions for food. Looking forward to a return trip to B&G next time I am in Boston.
(5)Lawrence S.
The food is a 5, and everybody at the restaurant was really great to us, except our server. She wasn't very friendly. And we sat outside which attracted quite a few flies. Not sure if there is a way for them to prevent that or not. But the food was amazing and I would highly recommend.
(4)Emily G.
I have to say my 2 star review is rated primarily on speed of service. I went to B and G on Friday of restaurant week with my girl friend for a lunch. Since this was during working hours, I was hoping to do a quick gab-session/delicious lunch and then head back to work. We got to the restaurant at 12:30 and at that point it wasn't too busy. We placed our entire 3 course restaurant week order and also the Chef's selection of 6 oysters. When the oysters came out at around 1:15 (it had already been about 45 minutes) I asked what kind of oysters they were. We were told they were 6 Blue Point, which was a little disappointing because this isn't really a "selection" of oysters - it's just 6 of the cheapest oysters they have. Still, I love oysters, and we gladly ate them. At around 1:30 our appetizer came out. I began getting fidgety because I had put an hour and a half worth of quarters into the meter, thinking an hour and a half for lunch would be plenty of time. It was now an hour in and no sign of our entree. We didn't get our lunch sandwich until a few minutes before 2 o'clock. I was already panicking because it was time to go back to work, my meter was expiring, and I was starving. I had the Salmon BLT which was meh. The salmon salad was decent, but they lobbed it onto two really buttery rolls, and soggy soggy bacon. I ended up removing the bacon and attempting to eat parts of the bread - but mainly focusing on the salmon. They served this with fries which were beautiful - but not too crisp. I kind of just wanted to leave already. We finished up our lunch a little after 2 o'clock and I didn't have time to stay for the dessert we ordered. It seemed like only one waiter was working, and at this point it was quite a bit busier. The hostess noticed that my girl friend and I were itching to leave - and I asked for the check. She offered to bring our desserts over to-go, and while my girl friend turned this down, I said - sure. We finished up and paid, I got the dessert to go - and we left. I was most surprised that they hadn't pre-prepped some of the items for restaurant week. You know everyone's going to be ordering certain items repetitively all week, so be prepared! Also since it is restaurant week, maybe more than one server? I was letdown by this. Better planning. When I returned to my car - of course - there was a ticket on my car. I guess an hour and a half was not quite enough for lunch. This added to my disappointment. The final kicker was later that night, I opened the dessert to share with my husband, and it wasn't even prepared. It was a deconstructed, uncooked dessert. Are you kidding? I would have rather they didn't give us this container of sauce, container of nuts - and blob of uncooked dessert. Pitiful. This place has real potential, I'm sure - which is why I gave it 2 stars - but ANY time I'm looking for an awesome seafood experience/oyster experience - I think I'll just head on down to Island Creek Oyster House instead...
(2)Raymond W.
I really wanted to like B&G Oysters more, but the restaurant week menu disappointed. We both got shrimp croquettes, which ended up being the best part of the meal. It was hot and crispy, with nice soft interior of potatoes and shrimp. The trout and lentils were good texture wise and the broccoli rabe was nicely seasoned, but nothing really wowed us. The dessert could have used the most work as my banana torte was more like a banana nut muffin that was on the dry side like it had been pre-plated over 1 hour in advance. The chocolate on the plate was pretty much stuck to the plate. The interior is a little cramped so don't plan on bringing a group. I would suggest ordering off the regular menu and trying out the signature dishes. That's what I'll be doing next time.
(3)Jane P.
Save up your $ and come here at least once in your life. The oysters are so fresh and DELICIOUS. My gawd. My sister had a white wine and my dad had a beer (both were the best wine and beer I've ever had...). I'm sorry I dunno the names of them but just ask the waiter/watiress what he/she recommends and you won't be disappointed. Oh I remember, my dad got the Octoberfest....I hope I got that right. Anyway, we each got to eat an oyster from the east coast and west coast. YUMMALICIOUS.. then we all got the lobster poached in butter. It's not a lot of food but it's just so good. It's high class baby. I don't really like the bread they give you in the beginning...it's too hard and not warm...but the olive oil is amazing. We sat outside even though it was cold but it's heated so you're good to go.
(4)Michael N.
Normally, I'm no seafood fan. I think crabs are worse than the STD, oysters look like snot hors d'oeuvres, and mussels taste like erasers dusted in salt. The only seafood I'll eat has to be drowned in mayonnaise (tuna fish) or fried and dipped in marinara sauce (calamari). Other than that, if the animal didn't shit between two upright legs onto God's green earth, I generally ain't eatin' it. Alas, my parents do not share my hatred for all things fishy. They're seafood demolishers and connoisseurs, purveyors of a two-person aquatic genocide of Stalinistic proportions. So, when they came up a few weekends ago for a visit, they made reservations at "B&G Oysters." Great, I thought. Another night of munching on bread and stopping at Chipotle before heading home. Oh, how wrong I was. I took the plunge headfirst into the ocean's delights, and, surprisingly, came out breathing (see what I did there?). The calamari, perfectly - and lightly - fried, ranks among the best I've ever had, delicious and tender, not a hint of that road-tire consistency that plagues lesser squids. The lobster-roll BLT was amazing. I can count on my hand the number of times I've had lobster in my life, but this was the best. Generous chunks of fresh lobster, sweet mayo, excellent bacon and vegetables on a toasted roll - wonderful. The restaurant made me a lobster fan for life. Service was quick and friendly, with a very knowledgeable and charming hostess. The only knock on the place comes from its beer selection - small and underwhelming. A few more choices and it would have been 5 stars -- still, a tremendous downtown-Boston dining experience.
(4)J W.
First off, bring your wallet. And someone else's wallet. But, with all that dough, you will enjoy the food. Get the Lobster BLT. It's the best combination ever invented. A little sea and a little salty pork. Somehow that works out to be a great partnership. The oysters are great. Did I say expensive? But after several species, they were all still good. Fried oysters are to die for. Expensive for six fried oysters but nice light crispy breading placed on the shell which has been coated in a dill infused tartar sauce. Got to do it. Just bring money. Lots of it. Beer and wine are tasty, just not an overwhelming choice. But you should be able to find one you like. Gets a little loud and crowded but great for dates or getting to know each other. Not such a good family reunion type place. Parking is non existent so plan to capture a meter.
(5)Erica H.
This was such a disappointment. After reading all the great reviews, I was determined to walk the 2 miles in hot and humid weather to eat the infamous lobster roll. The food was ok and the staff was friendly, but did a terrible job. I walked in and asked if I could sit at the bar. They said I could sit anywhere. Ten minutes later, I had to ask for a menu. I asked about the oysters and he handed me a card with their daily selection. I ordered oysters from both coasts and a lobster roll. He didn't ask me if I wanted anything to drink, so I stuck with water, though I would have liked to pair a nice wine with the oysters. 15 minutes later, the oysters came out. I had some from Maine, New York, Virginia and Washington state. I must say, Virginian oysters were the meatiest, sweetest and cleanest! I sat right in front of the bar and got to watch them shuck oysters and prep some of the dishes. 45 minutes after I ordered, the host took my oyster plate and I asked to see if I still had the order for the lobster roll. It came 5 minutes later and I couldn't help but notice that tables that came in after me already had their entrees. It was not busy at all. The lobster roll was the perfect portion, but a little more bland than expected. The lobster was fresh and had great texture. Th fries had great flavor, but they were from the bottom of the batch, so I had a lot of little bits instead of nice long fries I saw going on other orders. The host asked if I enjoyed the lobster roll and I said it was good, just not happy with the fries and had to ask for more water. He said, "Oh, ok" and refilled it. My cup had been empty for over 15 minutes. No effort was made to obtain anymore feedback. I have always tipped even when it was poor service, but this was just irritating. When my relatives come to visit, we will have to find another oyster bar.
(2)Tim P.
two words: lobster roll
(4)Tena P.
Excellent choice for Seafood (especially Oysters) in Boston! Great wine selection and beautiful patio!
(5)Susan T.
saw this as #7 in the best foods ever show, only to be disappointed. mainly on the lobster rolls though. it lacked flavor but it had decent amount of lobster meat. really expected much more to them. oysters and clam chowder were amazing. but lobster roll T______T
(3)Steve S.
Lobster Rolls were better tasting then it looks on the Food Network!! Oysters are served with a score card - Love that!! It's gonna be a THING!!
(5)Nicole V.
The patio is open! Start with the famous oysters, move on to calamari and salad, then spoil yourself with the selection of main courses and always always order some fries. Service on the patio could have been better; the best part was the wine and the heat lamps!
(5)Rachael B.
we came here twice during our four day trip to boston over President's day weekend. that alone says something, as FH and I always try new places. the oysters here are killer. (duh). you pretty much can't go wrong in your selection from the raw oysters of the day. on our first evening here, we had just flown in from san jose, were tired, hungry, and it was raining. we got seated right by the oyster shucking bar, which we loved. we started by ordering a dozen mixed raw oysters and basically split a bunch of appetizers from there (never made it to the entrees on that trip!) the fried oysters are amazing, the lobster beignets are unusual but light and well seasoned. we also LOVED the clam chowder - definitely clam-heavy and much lighter than many cream-intense versions. i think we made it to dessert and I had the chocolate torte with marscapone. mmm. oh and the olive oil they serve with the bread? so delicious. describing our other visit will mostly be redundant except that we tried some of the entrees - fish and lobster - and were definitely not disappointed. definitely a must-go to while in boston.
(5)Chris B.
Super clean, fresh flavors. Some of the better seafood I've had. They even accommodated us with no reservations. Friendly staff that went out of there way while we waited.
(4)Jeffrey K.
Tough not to give this place 4 stars. The choice of oysters was amazing, so having that very word in the name of the restaurant is deemed appropriate. I took my girl here for her birthday and we sat next to the open kitchen. This was a real cool spot as we got to see the kitchen staff shuck shells and fry clams. My girl and I ordered fried Ipswich whole belly clams which came with fries, b&b pickles and slaw. Everything on the plate was delicious and prepared flawlessly. The clams had an epic crunch and the slaw balanced out the decadent batter. We also shared the BLT w/ lobster. The meat was over proportionate to the sandwich so I had to get a fork involved - I didn't mind this one bit! The sandwich was awesome, the sweetness and richness of the lobster meat was countered by the saltiness of the bacon. I would order this again in a heart beat. This dish also came with fries, pickles and slaw. The beer selection was a little odd but the canned IPA brew I had from Boulder, CO was one of the best pale ales Ive had in awhile. I would recommend this place to anyone trying to impress a date!!!! Enjoy!
(4)Anna T.
Came here during the winter season. Made a reservation for 3 got there on time but still had to wait like half an hour because the people from the previous table was half an hour late. But it was tolerable because the staff was very informative about it and very apologetic. And we understand because the place was small and it was packed! One thing about the wait was that there's not much room to wait at and it was cold outside. So we came here for raw oysters. We had 1 1/2 dozen 6 each. The waitress helped us choose the more popular ones and from different places. We had oysters around the world 2 from east coast, 2 from west coast and 2 from Britain. You can really taste the difference and it was a lot of fun!!! We had entrees here too but I can't remember what they were already. They were all delicious and finished to the last drop. Would definitely go back.
(5)Beat K.
After careful research in my Home in Dallas to find a great Boston Seafood Restaurant we decided to give B&G Oyster Company an try. We found the Restaurant , by my surprise , close to our Hotel 140 on Claredon Street. Friendly reception and got seated , by our request, in the downstairs Garden. We placed our Order with the Waiter , Green Fried Tomatoes , well here we have a " classic " Louisiana Food item the Green Fried Tomatoes were sliced too thick and consequently where not properly done. The Breading was absolutely Bland with no Southern flare of flavors. We send it back as non edible. The New England Clam Cowder the taste itself was very delicious , the Broth was too thin and Liquidy and the Crouton dusted with ( Pepper ) Cayenne type where so overwhelming HOT it overshadowed the Broth and virtually burned my Palate. My suggestion to the Chef at B&G is , less Spices in the Chowder and a little more concentration of Flavors in the Breading of the Green Fried Tomatoes. Overall a disappointment .
(2)Audrey L.
Tasty NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER, not too thick, but flavorful, briny broth, with a hint of bacon. CHIPS, so good and plentiful. Took home. LOBSTER ROLL, good. OYSTERS, loved!
(4)Gerard B.
(July/ 2007) The cutest oyster bar in town! The fried oysters are a must! And do not leave without trying a taste of the raw bar. Have the waiter of waitress select an assortment of oysters for you to try. You can't go wrong-- fresh and the best! The mini lobster roll served with a side of fries is delish!
(5)Jon D.
If you go on a nice spring or summer day and can get a seat outside for lunch this place is tough to beat in Boston. We loved the asparagus salad and mushroom gnocchi (vegitarian style). However I had a BLT with lobster that was to die for. This is a Boston must try!
(4)Kazuo O.
Came here on a busy friday night. The bar is a good spot to sit to check out all the kitchen action. I ordered the lobster roll and it was great. It had a nice big chunks of lobster meat. The fries were okay, there really short. I had to eat them with a fork.
(3)Erin B.
It's not just for Campbells, B & G is mmm....mmm.....good! After seeing many rave reviews, I have been wanting to try B & G for quite some time. Fiance's birthday and restaurant week were the right combination!! Staff is phenomenal and very knowledgeable. Opted for wines by the glass (bottles are expensive, so you might as well have variety). Server gave us many good suggestions and the best part is they let you try it first. Each of us didn't like at least one selection, so it was so nice to get a second chance and not get stuck with an $11-$12 glass of something you don't like. Open kitchen is really cool. Sat right in front of one of the sautee stations. The owner obviously has confidence in her staff if they are going to cook right in front of the patrons. Now for the food.... Being that it is B & G, we HAD to try some oysters. Had the Peter Point, French Kiss, and Little Wing. Sooooo good. Opted for restaurant week menu (which had nothing that is on the regular menu, FYI). First course: I had the lobster bisque. Very good, made to order, right in front of our eyes! Fiance had the arancini balls with black trumpet mushrooms, arugula, and fava bean puree (very tasty and piping hot!). Second Course: Seafood Gnocci - mussels, clams, and this amazing broth that I slurped (yes slurped) from the bowl. Fiance had the swordfish and priscuitto (said it was very good, right combination of flavors). It came on top of yummy stone ground cornmeal. Third course: Chocolate Beer-Cake. Honestly, this was the only thing I didn't like all night and almost demoted this restaurant to 4 stars. The fudgy bottom was tasty but the rest of the cake was dry. It was topped with some kind of marinated orange rind which was gross. Fiance had the panna-cotta and vanilla bean...he won the desert round. Overall, lovely (but pricey) experience at B & G. Sat at the bar and loved every minute. Can't wait to go back when my wallet gets thicker.
(5)Mabel N.
B&G oysters is one of the best seafood restuarant in Boston. This place is small but has its own personality. Went there for a special occasion with my fiance. We tried every single type of their oysters in the menu. Yes...about 2 dozen of oysters. It was amazingly fresh. He had the fried clams it was alright. However the sear fresh sea scallops is what you need to try. It was one of the best scallops I've ever had. Great atmostpher, Good Service and Excellent quality of seafood.
(5)Khai L.
I am hard-pressed to give B&G a four-star rating, maybe a 3 1/2, definitely not 4. The clam chowder I started with was rich with ingredients, but the base was a little too watery compared to any other New England clam chowder I had ever had before. Perhaps this was a different kind of clam chowder and I did not realize it? The striped bass was well cooked. Ingredients tasted fresh. Finally I had their cherry tartlet for dessert. The tart crust was hard and crispy, though not too difficult. Still, not what I would have expected for a tart, but the thyme that was sprinkled on the tart seemed to suggest that the crispy texture was intentional for the flavor combination. The kick was that when the server placed the utensils for the dessert, she explained, unprompted, that she was giving me a knife because the tart crust could be hard because it was made in-house. Very unusual and, quite frankly, a little funny to me. Seemed like she was warning me that the quality of their pastry skills in the kitchen was inconsistent even before the dessert was served. And perhaps she was right. There was also something about the tart's pastry cream filling that tasted off. It tasted a little bland and a little grainy. The cherries on top were abundant and tasted good and fresh though. I thought the thyme was also a nice touch on the play of flavors. All in all, my experience here on 6/9/12 left me surprised that this was a Barbara Lynch restaurant. I know that B&G is not at the same grade as No. 9 Park or Menton, but there are many other restaurants of the same grade that have more satisfying food than this place. Love their relaxed outdoor seating atmosphere, though.
(3)Boston C.
Best oyster restaurant in Boston! Sometimes hard to get a seat but always worth the wait!
(5)Rosemary C.
B&G Oysters is truly "as good as it gets" for oysters and South End ambience. The atmosphere is urban casual. During warmer months, the outdoor space is perfect for sampling great fish, oysters and chowders. Indoors, sit at the counter to observe the plethora of oyster choices and the work at hand. Nice wine list and good service; friendly atmosphere, as well. All good, though I agree that for the overall experience it is a rather pricey meal. Make a reservation for dinnertime - they are usually booked.
(5)Gina M.
We went in for the first time last week and had a pleasant, but not mind-blowing meal. The lobster roll is pretty boring compared with Neptune. Lobster beignets were just okay (I wouldn't have guessed there was lobster in there if the menu didn't say so). However, the tuna bruschetta appetizer was quite good. We also had a wonderful server and a nice bottle of wine. The oysters were also good. Cute space. I will go back if I'm in the neighborhood and in the right mood, but honestly for what we spent, it should have been a lot more impressive.
(3)Ashley J.
I will admit that I probably eat here once a week and it never disappoints. This is where I fell in love with eating oysters. I recommend trying to sit that bar so that you can see all the action. I've probably have everything on their menu but some highlights below... -lobster roll (off course) -BLT lobster sandwich -claim chowder I know the highlights are classic new england dishes (well, maybe not the BLT) but these dishes are my "treat' picks when I'm feeling like really getting full. For drink selection I recommend talking to your waiter/waitress. I've found that the wait staff is warm and really like to have a dicussion about oyster, entree, and drink selection.
(5)Colin W.
What a place! Reservations for three at a prime time in the evening got us a table immediately in this small restaurant. The service was friendly and quick, the wine selection was pretty good, the oysters (of which there were about 12 varieties to choose) were amazing, and the lobster roll was the best I've ever had. On the other hand, the prices seemed a little bit high, the room was very warm and didn't have much ventilation, and the whole place was far too noisy. I'd definitely go back, but I'd rather dine during off-peak hours because of the heat and noise.
(4)Neil T.
I've been to B&G Oysters just once for lunch. We had booked in advance, which you need to do since this play is small and gets busy with the lunch crowd. We showed up about 15 minutes before the reservation and there was no issues getting us a seat. Both my girlfriend and I enjoy oysters, but not the ones that are too salty. We also enjoy the plumper ones as well. We told the server our oyster preferences and she suggested a couple nice ones, which I can't remember. We followed up a few raw ones with the deep fried -- fantastic. Neither of us are huge eaters so we split a lobster roll (also fantastic). There is nothing bad I could say about this place. The food was spot on and the staff were knowledgeable and friendly. I took off a star because a) I hadn't tried them for dinner and b) it is a little on the 'spendy' side. Perhaps a dinner outing will change this into a 5 for me!
(4)Kelvin N.
12 varieties of oyster - carefully chosen - you're bound to like at least one. Served quick and fresh. The rest of the menu is comparable to the quality at most seafood specialty restaurants in Boston; but the oysters are a notch higher. Listen out for the specials - sometimes they are surprisingly good - and they don't repeat their specials.
(5)Kristen R.
The Lobster BLT was outstanding. I'm not a big oyster person, but the rest of my family seemed to enjoy the selection and our waiter was very helpful.
(4)Sarah M.
Very Impressed. My boyfriend made reservations for us for Valentines Day and we got there at 9pm to a full restaurant. The place is definitely on the smaller side, with much of the seating being bar seating, but it makes for a nice intimate environment. We were sat by the hostess, which i could only describe as overly friendly, but that is not necessarily a bad thing. It is a slightly limited beer selection, and the wine was on the bit of the pricier side. I went with a Dale's Pale Ale while my boyfriend went for the Harpoon Island Creek Oyster Stout which was very pleasant. Both beers complimented our food very well. We started by asking our server for a half dozen oysters of her choice, and a half dozen shrimp cocktail. She presented us with two each from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and British Columbia. I can't recall the specific names, but the RI was were so delicious we ordered four more (and i am new to enjoying oysters!). The shrimp blew us away with their size and meatiness and ordered more of those as well. Honestly we could have sat there all night eating more of each. For our main course, i went with Lobster Cassoulet and him the Lobster BLT. Both were fantastic. The BLT had a very large portion of lobster meat, thick crispy bacon, and the coleslaw and hand cut fries were delicious but we hardly could finish them. The Cassoulet was a nice combination of beans and chestnuts, with a generous portion of tail and claw meat that had a perfectly mild butter flavor to it. We were much too full for desert, but they did give us two little cups of hot chocolate which was the perfect little sip of sweetness to end the meal. I would go back here in a second! Looking forward to trying some of the other menu options.
(5)John L.
I liked this place. We went there during Restaurant week. The hostess was great. The server was very nice. My gf was having trouble picking a white wine and the server suggest a good and full bodied wine which we both liked. For me they had PBR! Yes PBR. I love PBR. lol We had the Seafood Gnocchi and Swordfish. The Gnocchi was a winner. The swordfish was... nothing spectacular. It tasted like... swordfish. The gnocchi was tasty. We also had the lobster bisque which had more bisque and broth than lobster meat. It was still good though. My gf had the mushroom risotto balls fried in oil (I have no idea what they are called, I describe them like I see them). The deserts were good. Overall great experience. Not big enough for large groups but definately a nice date spot.
(4)Nicolas H.
I visited B&G twice in the past week. I loved it. Once we had a table (no mean feat in itself) they were efficient and friendly. We did not feel rushed and enjoyed the service. The oyster selection, preparation, presentation, freshness, quality, are all of the highest order. I also had the lobster BLT which was wonderful and did not really seem particularly expensive to me for what it was. I'd go back like a flash. And will next time I am in Boston.
(5)Kim P.
Service: 5 stars. Attentive, funny, personable. Loved it. The oysters (baked oyster appetizer and the Po boy) were good, but not to-die-for. Maybe I'm biased because I still have the lingering memory of eating at the Acme Oyster House in New Orleans a few weeks earlier. Who knows. At any rate, it was great for Restaurant Week so I could try the place. I loved the ambiance (if you sit at the table to the right of the entrance in the front, beware--it's drafty), the wine list, the ability to watch everything. It's the South End--if you insist on driving, just save yourself the time and energy and valet your car.
(3)Nicole D.
love this place. if the lobster bisque is on the menu get it and stop thinking about it!!!!! Its light, flavorful, absolutely divine! the mermaid cove oysters were delicious and fresh! Also the BLT with lobster was amazing a sandwich stuffed beyond with lobster, the lobster had a hint of mayo barely even there (amazing.) a fresh light citrus flavor, toasted bun, great french fries sweet pickle chips to add... also amazing. you'll spend $$ to eat but its well worth every penny the food here is beyond wonderful. Sat at the bar and loved it!
(5)Kendall H.
Hidden and somewhat of a secret in the south end. Really nice, small place with great consistency, but i'm definitely more a neptune's oyster guy. Nothing against B&G because its a clean restaurant, with great service and spectacular food but a little too refined for my taste.
(4)Lisa M.
Definitely higher priced, but worth the splurge for really flavorful, chef-quality cuisine. Most people think fried food is all the same, but the fried whole-bellied clams here are unbelievable. Light, seasoned and nicely crumb-coated, not covered in thick yucky batter or overly-greasy. The dipping sauce is amazing with fresh herbs...no grocery store bottled tartar sauce here. It's a small space and very modern with an open kitchen.
(4)B C.
Went to this place with a couple of friends that love it. It's nice. The ambience was nice on a Friday night. We had an hour wait but were assured by our friends that it was totally worth the wait. And it was. We had some really nice oysters and ordered the lobster BLT and the black cod for our meals. Deelicious! The lobster BLT was just perfectly messy as any good sandwich should be. The cod was very tasty. Service was lovely.
(4)Laura L.
I feel a little weird writing a review on this place since I don't eat oysters (so shoot me! I'm from Denver!) but I must say, I was impressed with B&G oysters. My friend who brought me here has dined here tons of times, and says it's one of the best kept secrets of the neighborhood. First of all, the restaurant is small. I love how you can see what's going on in the kitchen no matter where you sit. Small and modern with a wicked spiral staircase to the downstairs area. Good beer & wine selection. My friend and I split a smoked salmon app with a beet salad and these deep fried teeny potato...squares. Delicious. I had the paella - what appeared to be a small serving, but turned out to be plenty. My friend had the clam plate with garlic bread- I have never had bread so flavorful. My only regret is that I won't be in Boston long enough to come back!
(5)Steve C.
After my 3rd visit to B&G, I HAD to place a review (not that B&G really needs another great review, but it's always fun to share your experience with fellow Yelpers). It's a little old (was there in February), but better late than never! Once seated (made a reservation), we were greeted by our server David who was very attentive and helpful the whole night. They didn't have the wine my girlfriend wanted but David gave an excellent recommendation. We then decided on what to eat. For an App, we went for their "Fins to Gills" menu. Basically this means they use the practice of using the entirety of an animal. We picked the Maine Shrimp. My Girlfriend got the Maine Lobster Roll and I ordered the Day boat Sea Scallops. Before the shrimp came out, they brought over a small taste of a dish that the chef makes. It was seared tuna marinated in miso and a Japanese citrus (ouzou?) served on skewers along with a few green onions. We both loved this dish and my GF doesn't usually like seared tuna. Then the shrimp came out. It was so flavorful. Very good. The lobster roll was great, but the dish that stood out above all the others were the scallops. Cooked perfectly and delicious. "Most likely the best scallops I have ever eaten", direct quote from my GF and I have to agree. I can't wait to go back!
(5)liam f.
Over-rated, over-priced not terrible, but decent food The problem is that is extremely over-priced for the portions and dishes in general. The service was mediocre as well. I think there are many other optons that have better food w/ lower prices
(2)Jingwei Z.
My boyfriend and I love B&G Oysters, especially sitting at the bar area looking at the chefs in action. Food is great. Atmostphere is fun. Service staff aren't particularly nice, but fine. =)
(5)Meggie C.
Oysters were delicious and the waitress was helpful in our selection of a variety. Mussels entree was perfection, spicy but still very flavorful not just shock-value spicy. (WARNING: some members of my group who sampled the dish thought they were too spicy, though they are not the type to order something with spicy in the description on their own) White Rascal beer on tap was quite exciting for me. Beer and wine only though, so my hankering for a Bloody Mary could not be met. AC level did leave a little something to be desired, but I was sitting in the sunny window and was eating a spicy dish so hard to accurately judge. Overall, I would definitely go back again and recommend to friends - although it is definitely pricey, so special occasions only for me :)
(4)Ariana G.
Certainly not what it once was. Loved this place the first time I tried it several years ago. Was so excited to go back and boy oh boy did it fall flat. It was a little embarrassing because I took a friend who was visiting from out of town. I raved about how much I loved this place. The recent experience did not at all live up to my hype. What was once the best calamari I'd ever had, was on par with what you get from Legal Seafood. The oysters were good, but not great. The lobster BLT roll was rock hard making it very difficult to eat. The fries were soggy. The hake was just ok. The worst part of the meal was our incredibly pretentious server. She was almost rude and really made us feel like she was doing us a huge favor by waiting on our table. It was ridiculous. I would not recommend and would not go back.
(2)Alex N.
First off, I must say the layout of this fine, teeny-tiny establishment is very appeasing to the 25% of my paranoid conscience that fears eating at a traditional seafood joint where everything happens behind closed doors. They could be storing their fish in a murky aquarium next to the urinals, or even worse, be defrosting Van De Camps for my 50 quid meal. At any rate, the small intimate space on the corner of Tremont and Warthum is perfect for those foodies who regularly seek the small guys good food. They are serious about Oysters here. Even though I'm not, I can appreciate the freshness of Oysters being shipped in twice daily. I had the very popular lobster roll and pan seared sea scallops with winter squash tortellini and sauteed brussel sprouts. WoW! is my answer to that son! The housemade coleslaw and butter pickles alone are sufficient enough for a repeat visit. If I lived in South End, lets put it this way, they would know my name. You may want to wait for your stimulus check or your unemployment check before you come though. It is pricey!
(5)Helen L.
It's summer, every nice weekend I get to feel the hot sand between my toes and the cold salty water splashing on my face, so it only makes sense that during the week I've been craving oysters. And the oysters delivered. I ordered a variety of the oysters of the day and they were perfectly presented, perfectly shucked, each one a juicy, salty meaty morsel that just slid out of its shell and provided a well needed reminder of the beach on a Monday. A great glass of white wine and absolute perfection. Unfortunately, I'm also still on a quest to find gnocchi that can match Sage's (R.I.P). I ordered the lobster gnocchi here and was expecting at least a mediocre level of gnocchi, but was greeted with a steaming bowl of gnocchi laced with bits of spinach and lobster that was heavier and doughier than my first attempt. Combined with a very pasta-watery sauce, I was almost tempted to send it back and order more oysters. However, it did evoke homey memories of rolling out the little pieces of dough that turned into my first gnocchi, so I finished it. There was a banana pudding on the menu for dessert, and since I love a gelatinous bowl of Nilla wafers, vanilla Jell-o and slices of banana, I figured I should at least try theirs. I'm glad I did. Their homemade vanilla wafers were a delicious melt in your mouth shortbread and the banana compote a perfectly mixed creation so that I never ended up with that lone banana slice at the end. Overall, a little crowded and cramped, the food could use a little more focus, but a delicious, solid summer meal.
(3)Jane K.
Since I'm only in Boston for 24 hours I had to at least get some yummy seafood, specifically a lobster roll. To satiate my cravings the lovely Leighann F took me to B&G, an upscale little joint boasting and oyster bar and lots of delectable (and pricey) seafood options. The decor was pleasant, though I'm not a huge fan of high tables--they always make me feel like I'm in the bar at the Cheesecake factory. We sat at the actual oyster bar so we got front row seat to the oyster shucking. Having sufficiently whet our appetite for shellfish we split a half dozen scrumptious oysters ($2.50 ea) and each ordered up a lobster roll ($29). Loved the oysters and the fries were perfect. I usually prefer naked lobster rolls but this mix was light and fresh, not mayonnaisey like some. The bread was a bit tough--not stale but not fresh--and I would have preferred a buttery soft roll to complement the lobster. It satiated my craving and was more than enough food to have me waddling out of there with a smile.
(4)Keith O.
I have been to B&G many times (even when they had the terrible picture of an oyster on the front sign that looked like a dog poop) The oysters are always fresh and the staff is knowledgeable and willing to give you good information on when they arrived and what you should expect when tasting them. That being said, I have always sat at the bar and not at a table so my experience has always been with the bartenders. I cannot speak to the rest of the wait staff. This is definitely my go-to location for oysters in Boston.
(4)Leighann F.
My darling colleague comes to town and I asked her what she'd like to have for lunch when she arrives. Lobster she says, so lobster it is. We acquired two neat seats at the counter, right in front of all those fresh, delectable oysters. As a full-on local treat, we sucked down a few Island Creeks...clean, briny and the perfect start to a refreshing lunch. Contrary to my usual policy against double ordering (people ordering the same thing when they dine together), we both got the lobster roll. Succulent and lightly dressed, accompanied by crispy seasoned fries, sweet pickles and a really interesting cole slaw. Though I prefer the style in which Neptune Oyster does their lobster rolls, Barbara Lynch's version was satisfying and well-accompanied. I'll be making it a point to come here and try the more substantial dishes. Just as soon as my credit card recovers from shock!
(4)Mike M.
Ok lobster roll but nothing spectacular, expect to possibly loose sight of the roll while holding in your hand, or possibly even if you put it behind a french fry.
(3)Cherie C.
Worth every penny. Oysters are fresh and delicious and served in a beautiful manner. The fried oysters were divine, served in the shell on a bed of homemade sauce atop a pile of salt that was somehow more delicious than salt should be. Even a simple salad was elevated with fresh toasted hazelnut and amazingly fresh greens. Good wine, too.
(5)Jeff G.
Service was average at best. Ordered a medley of a dozen oysters at $4 each and no description given, condiments were minimal. Lobster roll was small but good (amazing bread) . Hostess wanted us to hurry to turn table; gave us 90 minutes and she was hovering after 75.
(2)Lindsay D.
My boyfriend took me here for my birthday last week and it was awesome. We went on a Wednesday and there were a decent amount of people there which was nice since I was a little nervous that we would be eating in an empty restaurant- not the best atmosphere haha. But it was hopping! The decor is simple and pretty. We were seated in a table in the corner which was nice and private. Our server was incredibly friendly and helpful. As for the food, it was phenomenal! I had oysters for my appetizer (duh) and they were incredibly fresh. For my entree I had the seared scallops with the most amazing pumpkin tortellini- yummm! I would absolutely recommend to anyone for a great meal.
(5)Elle A.
The best oyster selection in the city - fresh and chilled to perfection. The service is always perfect and the food is always prepared to perfection. This is a perfect place for a small get-together as it is not too loud or overwhelming. Lovely.
(5)wsl l.
WHAT!!! 2 days of B&G goodness in a row !! oh yeah, that's how I roll. I've been meaning to try this place since it's gotten so many rave reviews. I finally ventured out yesterday for my first experience. Parking was a pain b/c there was no meter parking due to the parade. We circled around quite a bit and finally reached B&G at 4:30. We wanted an outside table but the wait was 45min, so we opted for empty in door dining. This place quickly fills up, small space but manageable even for today's table for 6 :) Absolutely fresh stuff. Great selection of oysters which changes - I am guessing daily since the oyster menu was different from yesterday. Cherrystones are awesome here, I've actually never had them so plum and big before.. that almost sounded dirty.. think food people.. food.. . Oysters, cherrystones, fried clams, lobster & peas gnocchi = delicious... and they have a great selection of wines as well. Service on both days was just ok.- which is why it's no 5 stars. Staff are friendly but kitchen service is slow which is bad if you are soo busy. Before leaving, I wanted to finish off with 3 cherrystones. Took 15 min to chuck 3 cherrystones. It is a bit on the pricier side, but well worth a treat .. or two.
(4)Wai F.
Our second trip to B&G Oysters (first trip was some years back). We came here specifically for the raw bar and hit it hard getting one of everything to start with. After that round we got a second round of all our favorites (Hurricane Island, Tomahawk, Taylor Bay, and Washburn Island). For entrees we got the clam chowder and scottish salmon. The chowder was good, but not nearly as good as the one we got earlier in the day. I thought the inclusion of bacon in the chowder helped it, but my wife slowly picked those out. Oh well. The salmon served with a sauce gribiche was totally delicious. The world would be a better place if we served more of our dishes with this sauce. The fish was outstanding as well. I normally don't eat cooked salmon, but I have to say it was an excellent call this time. We finished things off with a chocolate tart, which was a bit difficult to eat since it was so hard and the knife we were given just barely did the trick. All in all, an excellent dining experience. Thank you, B&G!
(5)Joe S.
When you can actually get into this gem and eat, you will not be upset! Been there a few times now, place is extremely small and always booked so you have to be motivated to reserve in advance.. Fried oysters are friggan amazing and the lobster roll is an A+
(4)Patrick R.
Well executed, posh oyster bar. No complaints except the price tag. If you want to spoil yourself or other . . this is a good place. If you just stuck to oysters and beer, you could probably get away without spending more than 50$. I had a handful oysters from both coasts, all fresh and yummy. I also had the lobster roll, which was satisfying but pricey. They staff was kind and attentive.
(4)Kohster P.
We came for to celebrate our friend's acceptance into grad school here during Restaurant Week. I know they're known for their oysters, which were pretty good, but I'll admit to being a little disappointed by the moules frites and the lobster arancini. The mussels weren't super fresh, and they were served in a bowl that wasn't shallow enough to have even broth distribution across the mussels. The lobster flavor in the arancini was overwhelmed by the rice and the bread crumb exterior. Great ambience, reasonable service, and tasty oysters - but I still prefer Neptune's Oyster.
(3)Martin L.
We came here for pre-meal snack (yes... i know it sounds ridiculous). Very relaxed environment, which has a back court yard tucked away behind the main restaurant. The indoor space is small, with a bunch of seatings around a bar (kind of set up like a chef's table). Yummy aroma of seafood fills the air as you walk into the area. We had an assortment of oysters on half shell, which were all very fresh and they also have a very diverse selections. They were very good even though a bit on the expensive side (all $3+ each, yikes!). We also had fried oysters, which i expect a casual basket full but they served them bite side on the half shell, which was a nice touch. Somewhat regret not having dinner here as everytime a waiter walk by delivering entrees to the table, each dish would look better than the last. Also had a delicious French white. The wait staff was busy but friendly and helpful with our oyster selections. Definitely a place i would go back again for the main course. Might have gone five stars if I tried the main course but hesitant to give it that without truly trying it out.
(4)Lea C.
This was my post-graduation dinner yesterday, and I am so happy to have made the decision to have it here. The restaurant is very small, so reservations here are a must. It's on Tremont, so transportation can be a pain, but there's always the insanely expensive valet. And this place is not even remotely handicapped accessible, which can be a serious bummer if you want to take anyone in a wheelchair here to enjoy the goodness. We started with the fried clams, which were light and tasted like actual clams instead of just greasy breading. The tartar sauce to accompany them was also delicious. One of my friends and I both got the lobster roll, and my other friend got the salmon. He loved the salmon, and it looked delicious. My lobster roll was literally the best I have ever had. The lobster was sweet and perfectly dressed and the bun also had a sweet finish to compliment the lobster. It was the perfect size and came with fries, coleslaw, and pickles all of which were equally excellent. We had a bottle of champagne, which was delicious, and a very cute waiter who was getting his Ph.D in Neuroscience...SCORE! I will definitely be coming back for more.
(5)John D.
Expensive for no reason. A $27 lobster roll?! If it's made by Barbara and the $ going to charity, maybe. I had the sea bass and the portion size was beyond minimal, if it weighed 3oz that was a lot. I really don't see what all the fuss is about with Boston having some amazing seafood restaurants at normal prices. The wine list is ridiculously over priced, they buy with the buying power of several restaurants and do not pass on the savings to their customer. The wine list is lacking, for a place that's supposed to be an oyster bar and only have 2 Chablis' on the list is stupid. Have they not heard of oysters and Chablis being one of the classic pairings? Don't waste your money. B&G is all flash and no substance. The service was good and the staff is friendly, that's the only good thing I can say about the place.
(1)Ryan C.
Went here on Friday night 12/9/09. Had reservations for 4 at 9:30, arrived a little early and the place was packed! The hostess saw us waiting outside in their little hub for waiters, and came to get us to bring us inside to warm up by the heater. Sacrificed space for the servers to walk around so we would be warm, def deserves some points. Our server was very pleasant, and recommended us a good wine bottle, which type of oysters to get, and which entrees she preferred over others. I didn't try the oysters, but my friends said they were very good (all oyster ed out from the previous day). Me and my friend split the lobster roll and the swordfish. The lobster roll was great. Very fresh and tasty, and not swamped with mayo like other places. The Fries were crisp, and the coleslaw was very refreshing and tasty, and I hate coleslaw! The swordfish was good, just overcooked. It came with a tangy sauce and diced squash and carrots I believe, a good blend of flavors. Would've been outstanding if the swordfish wasnt overcooked, but still good! My other friends shared the lobster roll and scallops. The scallops looked great, and they were very pleased. Only knock was we couldn't get earlier reservations even though we tried a week earlier. I'm not a fan of eating that late, especially in a city where night life ends early. Most entrees are 22-30 dollars, apps are 8-15 dollars, and oysters are 2.65 each, though they have a wide array and def fresh.
(5)Arturo R.
Great fresh seafood in a cozy and well appointed environment. The service is fantastic and I have never had a bad dish or poor service here. Oysters are of course a must but the lobster roll, clams and of course the daily fish specials are always worth a taste. Sitting at the bar/kitchen can be a delightful experience as well as you get to see the food prepared in the restaurant's open kitchen. The food is a bit on the pricey side and it is often impossible to get a reservation but it is worth it.
(4)Shaggy S.
Great lobster roll and fries. Tried oysters for the 1st time here and I'm hooked. Got a variety that is fresh from the Boston bay. Absolutely incredible! Got comped a glass of wine because a guy passed out behind me and the paramedics had to come get him. They moved me to another seat at the bar. No big deal. Friendly and attentive service. Winner.
(5)Gerald D.
I think that if you care about oysters, the only way to have them is raw. And the establishment that serves them to you has to be on high alert for quality and reliability. If you don't like raw oysters, skip the rest of this review and read what some other hack had to say. An oyster is a filter, and you are basically tasting whatever passed through that filter. The salt of an Atlantic estuary, the soils of the river that feeds it, the notes of the marsh grasses, the memory of the tides, the minerals of the sea. B&G hits a home run here. A icy plate of fat Wellfleets, Duxbury, or Malpeques from PEI, or sweet, cute Kumamotos from the West Coast, served over the course of an evening with a chilled white Bordeaux or a Chablis, comes close to a religious experience. As you get to know the flavor of each location, you'll become friends with the rivers, grasses of the estuaries and the tides that washed over that oyster. Each location provides for amazing differences as you work your way around the serving plate. It's like a grand tour of the taste of the continental seaboards, with your perfect white wine as your guide and interpreter. You can sit at the outdoor patio and imagine you see the stars in the leafy tangle overhead. Skip the fried foods and lobster rolls. You'll want to stagger back up the stairs to the brick sidewalk, slack-jawed in satisfaction at your oyster-only tour of the coasts. In the summer, come prepared to wait. People who care about raw oysters have already found out about this place.
(5)Hector H H.
It was a cold December afternoon. She was visiting from out of town. We had a hankering for oysters. What better place to go than to B&G? We sat at the bar, ordered a plate of mixed oysters, a bottle of Ribeira Sacra Vina Caneiro, and sat back ready to slurp some salty goodness. A very small cozy place to go for a nice long lazy afternoon lunch. The food is fresh, tasty, and vibrant. The servers relaxed but attentive. Sitting at the bar is a lot of fun. Great wines on the list. It gets really crowded in the evening, make sure you get reservations. It is a bustling, vivacious evening crowd, so go ready to mingle, have fun, and eat great food.
(4)Elaine H.
Definitely a fan of the ambiance and the dining experience here at B&G but in general the Lobster Roll or oysters cannot compare to Neptune Oyster's. Food is not superb, there are definitely better ones out there. But I love the ambiance and the combination of cool/cozy of the restaurant. It's a great place to come for casual date, nice and simple lunch, they also have a couple tables for 4, but generally it's the type of place where you want to sit at the bar and enjoy your wine and food.
(3)Gen M.
Fantastic lobster roll and good white wine (whichever the least expensive). Although the $45 per person (with tip) for just the roll plus a glass of wine is a bit steep honestly.
(4)Debra L.
Great oysters. Good wine selection. Good location. Great service. Our waitress topped off our glasses "just because"...and at no extra charge. But, aside from oysters, the food is only okay and the menu is limited. I had the special (stuffed sole served with chickpeas & escarole. Totally bland. I know sole is generally bland but there wasn't much else to choose from so I went with it, assuming the chef would make it interesting...nope). My boyfriend had a seafood cioppino/stew which was labeled an entree but it was very small - although good. It's loud. And it's ridiculously freezing if you sit anywhere near the door on a cold night. B & G is not a bad place but I gotta say I prefer Neptune...even if it smaller than a bread box. Better food.
(4)Scott T.
I'm from Austin, where we have great Mexican food. We don't have lobster rolls, though, and now that I've had a few on a recent visit, I'm a little concerned about it. Lobster rolls seem to be the "high-low" of gourmet food: simple, delicious, and sometimes, like at B&G, served in a hot dog bun. We tried them all over town, and it lived up to it's reputation as one of the best in Boston. The restaurant itself has that hard-to-define and certainly hard-to-duplicate vibe of success. The small space was interesting, engaging, distinctive, and even a bit elegant. We were there in the mid afternoon, and the staff seemed to be having a meeting that sounded more like a get together of good friends. Our service was excellent, which, given their camaraderie and professionalism, I'd guess is probably the norm here. Their lobster roll falls on the more gourmet side, I'd say, and they certainly get it right. Finely diced cucumber - not chunks, an important distinction, delicate seasoning with a lemony finish, and plenty of the good stuff to fill up that toasted hot dog bun. If the rest of their menu lives up to the way it reads on the menu, the lobster roll probably isn't the only thing they get right. This seems like a great restaurant, probably with a lot of regulars, and a long wait in the evening. I know I'd be here all the time if I could cope with no good Tex-Mex anywhere in town. As soon as a restaurant there learns that queso is not just the Spanish word for cheese, please let me know. ST
(5)Melissa S.
I've been here several times and sat at the long counter each time. When I have gone, I have always ordered at least a dozen oysters. I typically stick to the local oyster choices even though the waitstaff swears they get all their oysters daily. I usually ask them what was delivered fresh that day and they're helpful. I've never had a bad oyster here. In addition, the last time I was there I opted to have one of their entree offerings. Admittedly, I don't recall what it was, but that is certainly not a reflection on the meal. The last time my friend and I went, they were packed but the hostess said we could come back in about a half hour and she'd have seating for us. She took my cell phone, we went and had a drink at Sibling Rivalry and she called us when our seats were ready. That was great. I would say the value is worth the prices they command. You might not be interested in going here if you're claustrophobic as this is a small space. I would strongly suggest making reservations espeically if you're more than 2 persons.
(4)Marilyn T.
This subterranean space is very intimate and perfect for the restaurant. There's a long bar and also tables scattered, and it's great for a group of 2-6, but it may be a tight squeeze with any more than that. I like the small space for an oyster bar - it's very chic and clean. The food is very fresh, and you should definitely choose a seafood option. Many wines pair well with the fresh seafood, and I loved my lobster salad. There's a generous amount of lobster meat, and all the ingredients taste very clean and crisp. Food is simple but highlights the seafood as the star ingredient. Both hot and cold dishes are prepared well. This is a fun place to grab a couple of oysters with friends or to share a light meal. It kind of transforms you out of south end when you sit inside the below-ground space - it feels very private and classy yet carefree and fun. It's definitely a gem in the south end.
(4)William T.
Fresh seafood, friendly and knowledgeable wait staff, fair selection of wine for pairing.
(4)nycsep n.
Lovely little restaurant. Seated right away on a Saturday night with reservations for 2. We were seated right away by the windows. There is a rather large bar where you can eat and then several smaller tables. The tables were high of which I'm not a huge fan. Just a preference and I have bad knees. Our waitress was super upbeat and almost intense. It was a good thing. We asked her about the variety of oysters and she was extremely knowledgeable. She was like an "oyster sommelier" Seriously. She had skills. We had a few oysters though I cannot remember their name. They were very fresh and yummy. No appetizers this round. Not a huge selection but you can get a salad or two. I had the Roasted Mussels and they were amazing. They come on a huge open skillet. They were cooked with a spicy red sauce and had delicious garlic bread / bruschetta. My boyfriend had the Lobster and he said it was really divine. The place was relaxed and comfortable. The only annoyance, beside the chairs, was the music. It was early 90's "Groove is in the Heart" or whatever that song is kind of stuff. Oh man. I'm just happy it was on low and I was having a great conversation.
(4)Betts C.
Ah, Valentine's Day. It's enough to inspire me to hunt down countless Top Ten Oyster Bar lists and slowly but surely make a decision. (It's not enough to make me buy roses. But oysters, hells yes.) And so I selected B&G Oysters. I made our reservation a week early, and we arrived 15 minutes late, valet parking after uselessly searching for parking between the ice-hardened snow drifts of Boston. They had our table ready and waiting, with absolutely no complaints as to our tardiness. We were seated at a small table next to the bar. It was cozy and nice to be able to watch oyster shucking and whatnot. The table next to us was a tad loud-ish, and in the small corner where we were seated, that was occasionally problematic. However, the somewhat tight space was made up for by the extremely attentive service and excellent food. We had a large sampling of oysters, all of which were phenomenal. It was great to be able to try several East Coast varieties along with one West Coaster. We also shared the fried calamari appetizer (when better to eat fried things than at one's Valentine's celebration?). That was a sparkling display of the difference between calamari at a place like B&G and somewhere more like, oh, Olive Garden. The breading was light and flavorful, the calamari were the least rubbery I've seen. They were large and fluffy in a way that I had never experienced. We also shared the lobster tail entree and a side of brussels sprouts. The brussies weren't the most incredible thing in the world, but they were softly buttery and excellent. The lobster was, well, lobster. We ordered it to give lobster another try, since neither of us really typically love it. The fennel sauce that surrounded it was excellent, and the lobster was cooked to perfection. It's just not the meat that really lights my fire. However, that's not B&G's fault. They also have an excellent wine list. Though nothing is precisely cheap, there are some moderately priced bottles that sounded excellent. We selected a Vouvray which was well work its $48 price and paired stunningly with our briney oysters etc. We were way too stuffed to have dessert, but were able to enjoy finishing our wine and relaxing at our table while our car was pulled around, coats were gotten, and generally, we lived some strange little life of luxury for fifteen minutes. The service the entire time actually gave one that sense. Our waitress checked in on us and brought each course promptly, but without being annoying. She also kept our wine chilled on the bar, but our glasses were never empty. Nor were our waters. The hostesses were friendly and easy-going, especially for the rush time on the Friday night of Valentine's weekend. Even as I write this, I want to go back. We just want to eat a bunch of oysters and have another bottle of wine. I have the feeling that B&G could be our new spot for spoiling ourselves, and that has me pretty excited.
(4)Whytnee B.
I can't say I fully sampled this place, only having a half dozen cherrystone oysters and a glass of wine at the bar. But, I did enjoy my experience and would like to go back for dinner. The oysters were good and had all the fixins. Super fresh and prepped before my eyes! I asked the friendly bartender to suggest a wine, and I ended up with the deliciously tarty Muscadet. My friend had the shrimp cocktail, a plus being that you can order individual pieces of the very large shrimp. I really liked the exposed kitchen, best taken in from the bar. The service was a little pokey, especially considering the size of the place. It seemed the chefs at the raw bar were all over the place, and the chefs in the other part of the kitchen were just chillin'. I want to go back for the lobster roll, by far the most popular item.
(3)L C.
I have been wanting to go B & G Oysters since I first moved to Boston. I finally made it there a couple of weeks ago... & HOTTT DAMN, was it worth the wait & did it live up to its reputation!!!!! First off, the service was beyond exceptional! From the darling hostess, to the servers & bartenders, even the chefs on the line I was very impressed! (Which says a lot considering I work in this industry & am a tough critic!) The hostess (or she may have been a manager?) came & chatted with us several times during the evening to check on us, offer advice, etc. She was darling, friendly & extremely knowledged! The servers & bartenders were cooler, insightful & fun. We sat @ the chefs corner of the bar & had a blast watching dishes being prepared. The chefs were very entertaining & super friendly & willing to converse & interact with us, which is very impressive considering how busy they were & the pressure to execute those delicious meals :) Ahhh... & the food.... Just awesome!!!! We were started off with a fantastic little amuse bouche of beat cure salmon. The texture was perfection! Next course was oysters, of course :) & they did not disappoint! Island creeks are always a favorite & fantastic! For dinner we had a scallop special & lobster special! Both were great! The scallops were buttery, seared perfection & accompanied with a truffle puree that was balanced just right to not be overwhelming. The lobster dish had an awesome chorizo stuffing & a yummy truffled mac & cheese (again, done just right & not overwhelming as many truffled dishes can be)! Dinner was capped off with a rich & indulgent hot cocoa :) Over all, I loved B & G! The food is fantastic, service exceptional & atmosphere fun! I am def a fan!!!!
(5)Evangeline L.
B & G Oysters is a delightfully delicious gem. The oyster selection is always rock solid and pretty much everything on the menu is melt-in-your-mouth fantastic. Both times I've been there I've had the Scottish Salmon. Reason being, it was so damn good the first time. Like slap your mama good. The second time, though delicious, did not live up to the first. However, this was because the prep on the first was more to my liking. The only thing that is hit or miss is the service. First time we went it started off well and the server even asked the kitchen to make the fried oysters in corn flour (or something) so my gluten free friend could eat them. So nice! But then he left and the other two servers who took over were really bitchy. Like, so bitchy that we didn't really feel the desire to go back there again...especially after spending $150 on lunch. To keep it short: the server barked at us when we tried to get her attention to let her know we were stepping outside for a moment. Like super bitchy barking why are you talking to me like that bark. Then tossed (as in Superbowl moment) our bill at us. Alas, the tasty oysters and delicious seafood selection was too strong to keep me away. I just go there expecting bad attitudes so that if they're actually nice it will be a pleasant surprise....wait a sec, B & G is way too expensive for that, good food or not. So please B & G, if you're out there, I beg you to beg your servers to be nice!
(4)Katie M.
I love B & G Oysters. It's super chic, and has a fabulous outdoor patio. The oysters are outstanding, super fresh and delicious. Nice wine list. It's always packed, leading you to see the word bubbles above people's heads reading "Recession? What recession?" This place is awesome.
(5)Emma S.
wonderful atmosphere sitting in the garden. fantastic beer (Dogfish head Festina Peche). Delicious bread and olive oil. Salad was incredible, with fresh parmesan and arugula. Oysters were nice. My boyfriend and i shared a bass with a lobster sauce, but I wasn't terribly impressed. The fish and the sauce were both a bit flavorless, but well-cooked. I would definitely return, although likely for for beer, salad, and oysters.
(4)Sara G.
Simply delicious. Fresh and great menu.
(5)Molly C.
Love it! Love it! Love it! This place is great every time. Make a reservation otherwise you'll be waiting a long time. We always ask for a recommendation of oysters from the raw bar, and the Lobster Coussoulet is fantastic! The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful with making selections. Be aware that it does add up fast, but it's worth it.
(5)Kimmy T.
good food, but GREAT oysters. for the freshest oysters, go to b and g. for a great lobster roll, go to neptunes and get it hot.
(5)Tess S.
My favorite spot in the South End! For a romantic dinner or a quick delicious dinner, B&G is the place to go. I recommend a cool glass of white wine, calamari, mussels & picking out an assortment of oysters. The bread is crunchy and the olive oil is delectable.
(5)Britney Z.
B&G Management, I would like to praise your raw bar chef this past Sunday for turning our meal around from a terrible service experience to an enjoyable afternoon lunch. I am not one to typically write any reviews but I felt a need to do so as I am in the business. My boyfriend & I recently found B&G Oyster on our last trip to Boston & now make it a tradition to dine here every time we are in town - we love the ambiance & the lobster rolls are perfection. On our most recent visit the service was shocking - It began on a great start with oysters & wine while also mentioning to the server we were hitting the road back to Manhattan so we only had an hour. It was when the raw bar chef placed our two lobster rolls on the pick up counter & they sat there (in eye site) for 7 minutes. We began to become agitated & could not find our server. The chef stepped in to re-fire our fries, call to the kitchen, apologize, send out a middle course & dessert. If it was not for him, our meal would have been terrible & I would say we would have never came back. The management on duty did not even come over to apologize himself - you should be proud of your chef and I hope he is recognized for his hospitality!
(4)Shane H.
Went here for lunch on a Friday and ate on the outdoor patio to enjoy the fall weather. My wife and I had the lobster roll and fish & chips. Both were good but portions were on the smaller side and we felt overpriced by about $5 per entree.
(3)Sofia H.
first off the food (the lobster roll, mmm) is incredible. Their wine selection is not only extensive but also quite excellent. that said, it is unfortunately, like a lot of places in the south end, a little overpriced. Also it is a place to go to if you've had a snack a couple hours earlier or if you're planning on getting dessert somewhere else- unless you're willing to spend. The oysters also are quite divine and they are a definite must if you're coming here for the first time. Overall my experience here was good- nothing spectacular in terms of decor and service but the freshness of the seafood/shellfish was incredible. good for a laid-back date or to try something different
(4)David A.
Their raw oyster bar is amazing. They have a whole assortment of oysters daily from different parts of the coast, cape, and even other areas in the world. Wine selections are wonderful and the Fried Clams, are truly the creme de la creme. Everything is homemade including their tartar sauce which is unreal. Hands down best restaurant I have been to in Boston and also is in the best neighborhood (South End). You must go here!!!
(5)Brian B.
I don't eat oysters and my girlfriend only moderately likes them. Even so, B&G was a great dining experience and a cool last-night for us in Boston at a place with a more local feel to it. I ordered the romaine salad and the salmon, which was cooked to perfection and she got clam chowder, which was very good, although overpriced for sure at $14. Very attentive service and the below street level dining room gives it an intimate neighborhoody feel. Overall a smashing success.
(4)KoreanSoup S.
3.5 stars. Good oysters and I love oysters!
(3)Deepa C.
You know that feeling you get after a great meal, with great wine and great company? For me, I get that feeling in my feet. They are happy and tingly and all I want to do is change into PJs and and huge blanket. Last night in the car, I told Josh I could feel the meal in my tingly feet. Normally, I would have deducted stars for the wait. We waited a little over an hour for a space for four. The waitress kept telling us that the table with our name on it was almost ready. But then they would order another round of oysters and another. And then dessert. And I was a little ticked. And then we ate. And then I understood. So besides the wait, everything was wonderful. We were starving, so a round of local oysters, friend calamari and the ceviche tacos were inhaled. The raw seafood was cold and perfectly spiced, the fried calamari was light and addictive. Josh said it best when he told us that all he wanted was a movie theater sized bucket of them. While we waited for our main courses, we watched the kitchen at work. Everything looked and smelled amazing. As soon as we saw something that resembled what we ordered, hope would build and recede as they took the food away from us. The double edged sword of the open kitchen... We had the Portuguese stew (simple and delicious), the lobster bisque (creamy and rich), the seared tuna (one of the best I have had) and I had the lobster roll (sweet meat on a buttery bun with great french fries and decent french fries). We were all happy and full and swimming from the bottle of Spanish white we were sipping. But were we done? Hells no. Another round of oysters (Rhode Island this time) and then dessert. After dinner we were back out in the rain $200 poorer but with full bellies and plans to come back (with our parents...) Great service, lively atmosphere, fantastic food, good location. The only downside is the cramped dining room (no room to wait even, let alone have a glass of wine). Like so many placed I love, I will be back, but not that often. It's pricey.
(5)Sasha R.
When I was in Barcelona, we went to this market there, and in the middle was a counter where you could sit, pick out the fish and seafood you wanted, and they would cook it for you; you could watch it from the counter. Then you ate it, and drank a big beer along with it. The whole amazing seafood experience was something like fifteen euros for 4 people. Funny that practically the same experience here is available only via a "fancy" South End restaurant, for a bargain price of $200 for 4 people! It's a little basement place that looks like a diner, with no room to wait for a table, and no decor to speak of (but that's idea, I think), and the most amazing smells wafting from the open kitchen! There are tables of varying sizes lining the wall, and a diner-like counter wrapping around the kitchen and rawbar. There is a huge wine list - we tried an Albarinio, and it was excellent; a formidable oyster selection, although only 2 or 3 local selections, which is a little odd; a small but creative menu. Fish cooked expertly, but I agree, portions are small for the price. I had a half a bowl of lobster bisque and it was delicious, so much so, that I licked the plate (this is status post 2 glasses of wine). Maybe I wouldn't have to resort to plate licking if they filled the bowl? The service is actually quite friendly, we joked with the waitress and the manager, and we haggled the chefs from our counter seats. The kept opening the emergency exit door right behind us though, and letting in gusts of wintery mix - if that's not done, they told us, the fire alarms will go off and we'll have to evacuate. ??? All in all, a fun night. Will be back - with a reservation.
(4)Claudia H.
There's no better place for oysters in Boston! B&G is a classic restaurant located in the heart of South End. Some say it was one of Kennedy's favorite restaurants in Boston. The wide selection of oysters can satisfy all tastes. Oysters are beautifully served and food is always fresh, no doubt! However B&G is expensive, usually packed at lunch and dinner times. The starters are all great and I would encourage you to try their Clam Chowder. It's lighter and spicier than the regular New England style. The tuna tartar and lobster salad are secure options if you're in the mood for raw fish appetizers. As entrée, I would recommend the lobster roll or the lobster BLT. During the warm days, B&G opens a terrace that practically doubles their capacity. Don't miss this excellent restaurant if you are in the mood for oysters and seafood in general!
(5)Chris F.
Good place to kill some beers and a freaking massive Lobster BLT roll. Oh yeah, and the oysters go down smooooooooth. Natch.
(4)Carolyn S.
One of the South End establishments I've always wanted to visit is B&G Oysters...and today, I got the chance! For my birthday, my awesomest bro took me out for a luncheon at this cool, minimalist spot. In the backyard patio, beneath white cloth canopies, we shared a communal picnic bench with fellow foodies. A glass of cold, sparkling Prosecco started things off. We began with a half dozen freshly shucked Wellfleets. Topped with a dab of horseradish sauce, a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of vinaigrette, these little blobs of deliciousness tasted fresh and sweet with an amazingly smooth and silky texture. I could have eaten TWO dozen of these guys. Remember the story of the Walrus and the Carpenter? Now I understand the ending to that poem. We followed our oysters on the half shelf with the fried softshell crab with pepper soffritto. The crab was perfectly cooked - light, crispy and very tasty (especially with a scoop of the brightly flavored pepper mix.) For a main, we went with what our table neighbor had been eating (it looked too good to pass up): the fabulous chilled lobster salad with tomato, avocado, cucumber and fennel. For some reason lobster and avocado go really well together. How this most excellent concoction ever came to be is anyone's guess. My bro speculated that long long ago, a lobster climbed out of the sea and up into an avocado tree, clipped off a piece of fruit and then fell (along with the avocado) into the awaiting jaws of some creature down below. And thus was born the lobster and avocado salad... ...but I digress. For dessert we went with the creme fraiche panna cotta with citrus tuile, and rhubarb coulis. It was certainly delicious and flavorful, although I prefer my panna cotta with less gelatin. The tuile was a bit soggy, though still very tasty. The next time I go to B&G (and believe me, I WILL be back) I think I might just gorge myself on oysters. The lobster roll looked pretty amazing, pilled mile high with fresh lobster meat. That would be reason enough to go back as well. "O Oysters," said the Carpenter, "You've had a pleasant run! Shall we be trotting home again?' But answer came there none-- And this was scarcely odd, because They'd eaten every one.
(5)r k.
Went with two other friends on a Sunday late evening. The place was fully seated! We ordered up a few of the oyster appetizers: bloody mary oyster, sliders and good old raw oysters. All of them were excellent. The wait staff was willing to replace an oyster that seemed not so fresh. The best part for me was the lobster tagliatelle. It was the tastiest pasta/sauce I have ever had. The soft/smooth fresh pasta and cream sauce perfectly balanced the generous portion of local mushrooms that had an interesting soft-crispness. My friends ordered the seared scallops and they were done just right with delicious sauce to go with it. The desserts needs a lot of work. The next table didn't like theirs either.
(4)Craig D.
Casual Neighborhood feel...very good for Oysters, Lobster Rolls and killer Beers! My favorite was the "Oyster Stout"(Ireland) made with real oysters! NOTE: Parking on the street / meters. Good seats at the Bar too.
(4)Michael D.
I took my family to dinner last night and started with the oysters. As always, they were incredible. 3 of us had the lobster roll for our entree and they were excellent. My wife had the Halibut (substituted for the Cod which had been sold out). The halibut was mediocre. Slightly overcooked, the vegetables were undercooked and the accompanying sauce was tasteless and watery. We have have been to B&G many times and it has always lived up it's reputation. Hopefully this was just a bad night in the kitchen.
(2)Anissa K.
Been to B&G twice, both times it was a packed house. First time we sat at a table, service was terrific and food was spectacular. Second time, we sat at the bar, food and wine was incredible, service was okay.
(4)Kristen F.
Very posh little place in the South End. See and be seen, kind of. Service and atmosphere were both great. The oysters were very good and they change daily. Note though - oysters from out west are better then ones that are more native. I thought I was drinkin from the ocean with the ones from MA. Hip place, sooo expensive. Worth trying it once so you can say you've been.
(4)Kate S.
Oh....so good! B&G is a very small place, almost surprisingly so, but it makes up for it with coziness. You definitely need a reservation to come here because every time I've been, it's crowded. The oysters are definitely excellent - just as good as Neptune's in the north end, I'd say. The food is delicious, although the menu is a bit limited. Don't bring friends here who have picky taste.
(4)Kerry-Ann G.
I went during restaurant week. My conception was that this is the time when restaurants showcase the best they have to offer. I could only assume that this was not the aim of the restaurant. The appetizer was forgettable and the entre seemed more like a joke. In all my life I had never seen shrimp that small. I mean if I were a fisherman I would have thrown them back or used them as bait. I have to say though that the oysters, not on the "special menu," were really good. The different sauces complimented the texture and taste of each oyster and you could gorge yourself on those alone. I would keep a wide berth unless enticed by prospects of their oysters.
(2)Steve S.
Went here for the kickoff of restaurant week on Sunday for lunch. I have been to Neptune Oyster, and the only thing this place has in common with it is the name "Oyster" and the high prices. If you are looking for an oyster place, pick Neptune before here every time. We started off with raw oysters which were excellent. We both ordered lobster risotto balls. The first order came out with the lobster still cold. They offered to do a new one for me. All 3 balls were still cold on the second attempt. They apologized twice, which was fine, but I did not have them bother with a third effort. One would think that they could fry something correctly after 2 tries. One of my girlfriend's balls, and one of my friends balls were also cold. We just moved on to the second course. Both the salmon salad sandwich and mussels were good. My friend thought there was too much dill in the salmon, but I thought it was good. Dessert was panna cotto and chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting. Panna cotto was really good. Cake was just ok. For their mistake with the lobster they bought us a round (4 of us) of drinks. It was fine. I appreciated the effort and mgr and server both seemed concerned. However, the fryer is an easy thing to use. They will be cooking hundreds of these balls for restaurant week. Hopefully they will get it right.
(3)Joanne C.
Exceeded my expectations. I went there on a Sunday afternoon. The oysters were fresh; I slurped it with a glass of wine. The fried calamari was good, the crab salad (with fennel and avocado) was refreshening though there could've been more crab. The highlight was the Steamed Littleneck Clams (with spicy sauce, garlic bruschetta). It was de-li-cious! The service was friendly and casual. There's not a lot of seating but I like the decor, very cosy, modern yet warm. I overheard that it was recently renovated. I love the bar - oyster bar literally. Can't wait to go back to try more dishes!
(5)Sean R.
You'd expect this place to rock bc it's a Barbara Lynch joint, and it does. The oyster selection is the best, wine prices are decent, and the dishes are awesome...but you must love seafood to agree. The lobster BLT is incredible. I definitely recommend making a reservation as the space is very tight and always packed.
(5)Paul K.
Expensive for me, but the lobster roll really was quite tasty.
(4)Tiffany G.
absolutely amazing!!! try the peppers, any of the oysters, the calamari was delicious and cooked perfectly. staff is amazing and the open kitchen is super entertaining.
(5)S C.
Good oysters, fried oysters, perfect calamari. Liked the lobster roll and cod.
(4)J B.
The service was excellent from start to finish. The food was good with some issues. The oyster selection while superb in taste was not well shucked. I found some fragments of shell in the two oysters. Several oysters were missing the liqueur. The blistered shisho peppers were under-seasoned. The blueberry tart was tasty - but the shell was rock hard and required brute force to break. The filling was runny and not very appetizing.
(3)Laurie D.
Excellent seafood in a lively environment. Small place with great service. The fried foods were light, the wine was tasty, and they had a terrific selection of oysters!
(4)Michael H.
Oysters were 5 stars. Skate wing was 3 stars. Overall experience: 4 stars. Great space, tasty food, great company. What more could you want? I guess all I'd ask for is a different preparation of the skate. Didn't love how heavy with was with the lamb ragout. But overall, a great meal!
(4)Sara Y.
i was disappointed in my last visit here b/c the first time i went the service was on point and the dishes we got were delicious and perfectly executed. unfortantely this time the service was not up to par. i had made the reservation for 6 people for myself, BF, BF's parents and my parents for a Saturday night @ 6:30pm. They origianlly told us when we arrived around 6:15, they were "right on time" to seat us @ 6:30. Because the place is tiny, we were waiting outside and around 6:35 I went in to see if the table was ready. The hostess frostily informed me 'someone else from your party already checked in, we're just waiting for the people to get up." When we were seated a few minutes after that, my BF and I got up to quickly feed the parking meter. When we came back my BF asked the waitress "do you have any specials tonight?' and she replied "were you not here when I JUST went over them?' Not the most polite response. The worst part was that my mom told me after she had never told the rest of the table the specials either!!!!! Rest of the meal was normal/fine service- the dishes we got had mixed reviews. I got the lobster roll, which was tasty- but both my BF and mom said their fish was slightly overcooked- which is SO disappointing for a place that was once "best of boston- seafood". Considering how pricey it is, I was disappointed that the food was not better executed. I was also pissed at the waitress' lack of... manners. We ordered a bottle of wine, 3 appetizers and 6 entrees- so it's not like she didn't make money off our table. Sad, because I formerly LOVED this place. It's still good, but not as unblemished as I had previously thought.
(3)Gary L.
I love this place. First discovered by me on my last trip to Boston, it is now on the must visit list. A tiny place that is devoted to all thing Oyster, I recommend sitting at the crowded bar where you can watch them shuck. Last night we had Island Creek, Piper's Point and one other who's name escapes me. To wash it down they were serving the Harpoon Oyster Stout. The chocolate flavor of the stout played beautifully off of the brine of the oyster. The GM told me that the beer is actually brewed with oysters which was a new experience for me. After the oysters, we had what I feel is the best lobster roll in Boston, with house-made pickles, and perfect fries. A great meal at a reasonable price. Highly recommended.
(5)Lauren B.
Monday and Tuesday afternoons - Dollar oysters till 4!
(3)Alicia B.
INCREDIBLE service and selection of fresh oysters - the freshest I've ever had. They are $2.55 each and you can choose from a small menu that covers west and east coast varieties. I liked how the server brought them out and explained which was which, setting up our triad in clockwise order. The atmosphere is pretty cool, with most indoor seats having a direct view to the kitchen. It's upscale without being too stuffy, too. Plus, the music they play is quite random, so you may get a laugh or two out of hearing an old 90's song or two. My date and I shared a bottle of wine. He ordered the scallops, which came with bacon vinaigrette and brussel sprouts. YUM. I ate the skate, which I had never had, but the server sold me on his description. It was incredible. It came with a poleta-like cake that was heavenly. I admit that the portion sizes were a bit on the meager side, but that could be because we were so hungry from walking around Boston all day long. Then again, they were pretty meager. My date got 3 large scallops. Not enough for a strapping young man, if you ask me. As for drinks, the wine menu is large, though it favors the whites. Well, they do serve fish, so I understand why. The most inexpensive bottle (and one that is quite good!) is $39. They even had some interesting and quality beers to order! This is a great date spot, though, and worth trying, if only once. The price can get pretty steep and the menu offers only a few selections, including salmon, lobster and clams. But, if you don't mind spending some money (the two of us racked up over $100 tab), then definitely check this place out.
(4)Joanna C.
I had a friend in town who desired seafood so I suggested B&G Oysters so I could try it out. I didn't make reservations and we were told that there would be a 20 minute wait for a seat at the bar. I'd like to point out that there was an empty table for four during our wait and meal. I was mildly irritated but sitting directly in front of the oyster shucking area made up for it. Watching this guy open oysters time after time was entertaining. Especially when he had to struggle to open the big ones. I hope whoever gets oyster duty gets paid a bit more for the night. Both of us started off with some oysters. There were 12 different kinds available that night. Our waitress was very helpful when we asked for suggestions of oysters by size. She also suggested that we try a certain type of oyster because of their excellent flavor and explained what skate was since I wasn't sure. I really appreciate knowledgeable staff. My friend tried 4 kinds of the bigger ones while I stuck with 2 kinds of the little ones. I think they were from Washington. They were absolutely delicious with a bit of horseradish and cocktail sauce. Just the right amount of briny and no grit. I probably could have just had oysters for my entrée but I decided on the paella with dried up chunks of chorizo, shrimp, mussels, clams and either squid or octopus. It didn't come out in a paella pan so I had my reservations, but was completely won over. The chorizo (does it always come dried out?...I don't think so but it seemed purposeful in this case and I actually liked the texture) added a nice amount of spice to the dish. My friend ordered the fried clams with fries fresh out of the fryer. They were extra crispy and delicious. I did see several lobster rolls being prepped. They looked absolutely fantastic - The rolls were overflowing with really large chunks of lobster. I might have to give them a try next time I go.
(4)Monique N.
This place is for the hipsters, kinda over rated and over priced. First of all, we came in on a Sunday evening, at first glance I was excited that the place still had some open tables until the hostess informed me that they were reserved (in my head, I was like...ugh...all 5 of the table/settings and the bar seats? ok...), anyhoo...she asked for my number so she can call me when a table opens up in approx. 45 min and gave me some references to other bars I can wait at? Now thats hospitality. Hubby and I went with it and headed back out into the blistering cold looking for the bar. 5 min goes by and *to my surprise* she calls me to come back. Arg. We were seated at the open kitchen/bar which was exciting at first, being in the midst of all the action, but all that grew old quick when you start seeing the wait/kitchen staff jacking around and talking way too long to each other while you wait for another beer. Started off with a round of raw oysters and tall glasses of harpoon IPA. Cant go wrong with that. Ordered one small plate of uni bruschetta, sadly we couldn't ID the uni and our waitress was nowhere to be found to ask. Travelled the distance to try out the lobster roll, what a disappointment. Got it cold, and it tasted...rather generic. It didnt help that we watched the cook prepare it by scooping the lobster mixture from a plastic bucket and just plopped it on the bread...yeah notso elegant. The lobster roll @ b&g is like the new boyfriend that never quite measured up to your first love (Neptune oyster's lobster roll, *see past review*) with every bite I was falling deeper into my memory about how good neptune was to me. *Sigh* If you're feelin trendy, want to blow money, dont care so much about qty. this is your place.
(2)jessica k.
This review is about B&G's First Ever OYSTERFEST, or as they call it, their "May Oyster Invitational". Although I give it 4 stars because b&g is a fantastic place any other time, the festival has a lot of room for improvement. Some bad points, expensive. Tickets are sold for 45 dollars before (but they sell out QUICKLY) and 75 if you want that VIP tickets (I opted for the 75 because I'm a baller and because i don't like waiting in lines... which I was worried I have to do if I was to get them first come first serve...) Anywho, they give you 2 drink tickets (but drink tickets are only 5 dollars... so buy a bunch and you are golden) and the VIP kids get to go to stir (the little restaurant across the street) to get an Oyster Profile Lesson with the one and only Rowan Jacobson (who is a cutie I must add!) Started at 12 went on til 8, which seems like a long time but for an avid oyster lover, it is totally worth it. Walking around was really annoying tho... there were stations of different oysters throughout the restaurant (inside and out) and during crowded times there would be a wait to get 3 or so oysters. But they were extremely fresh from all over the place (duxbury, kumamotos, wellfleets, fanny bays, oysters from nova scotia, sorry i started to forget where they were from as my drink tickets decreased) I ate probably around 50 to 80 oysters (along with the random samplings of lobster rolls, lobster bisque, clams, fried oysters, liquid oysters, etc...)and don't feel pretentious about it at all. it was also a very educational experience because oysters really are like a fine wine or cheese; they are very different and you never realize how different they are until you taste many different kinds side by side. Sorry this review is so long! Go b&g! Woo Oysterfest! Have it again!
(4)Jay M.
Way over priced for what you get! Only beer and wine and the wine is even pricier than the food. Food portions are small unless you like french fries, which came with my clams. Girlfriend had the scallops which came with nothing else. Both were $25. The South End has definitley not caught onto the $20 entree trend spreading across the city.
(2)Daniel H.
My Boston friends brought me here for my birthday dinner knowing I live for oysters. The approach into the little restaurant was charming. It was like walking into someone's house from the backyard. There's a open kitchen and we were seated at the only table that had a window to the street. The oysters were good as it should be. The cod and lobster were slightly overcooked but apparently that's the style. (Want best cod? AQUAGRILL!) However,stylish and easy atmosphere is well worth the experience. The wine selection can be better. I still adore this place even though the food didn't blow me away but part of a complete and pleasant experience of dining is charming atmosphere and impression. GO! GO! GO! and you're know what I'm talking about.
(4)John P.
i like oysters and so should you.
(5)Christian H.
Indeed the food is good, the cuisine is not original however. I could get it at Legal Seafoods. Their wine list is extensive as well, but their per glass prices are a steep $14 each for a white I could get anywhere else for $8 . The real problem with place is the manner in which you are handled as a guest. The "waiting area" is basically the walkway into the restaraunt - it is not pleasant AND you cannot wait at or around the bar. Also, the place has a lot of "special guests" who will be seated before you without wait. I signed up for a table for 2 (#4 on the list) at 6:30 and was seated at 7:40. Though we were the only people in the "waiting area" most of the time, no one once told me what was happening - ever. This place is better suited in Lower Manhattan, as are the host staff. Next time I want to feel like the least important person in the world while dropping $100 on appetizers and a glass of wine, I will know where to go.
(2)w w.
Simply the best place for oysters.
(5)Elizabeth A.
So, was in Boston a few weeks back for work (what a pleasure I must add as I heart Boston) and I had B&G Oysters recommended to me by the hotel where I was staying. Being from AZ, this desert rat failed to bring a coat on this lovely trip as the weather was supposed to be above 60 every day but the day I arrived, which was supposed to be 45 and rain. Whoops! Missed that one! I walked, oh, 6 blocks in the freezing, sideways wind and rain to find this delightful little establishment. Entrance is around the back and I could see there was a sweet patio, but given the Nor'easter I had just trumped through, needless to say the patio the was closed. I was greeted at the hostess stand looking like a wet rat and was promptly seated at the end of a raw bar where everyone else looked pristine...how they did that with the weather outside....I have no idea..must be something they teach you in school on the East Coast. After a quick trip to the ladies room to try to put myself together, I let the gluttony begin. The bar guy (what is there official title when they are also your waiter?) politely allowed me to try a lovely Russian River pinot and explained their procedure with the oysters. Since I eat and have access to a lot of West Coast oysters, I asked that he mix up a half dozen of some East Coasters. They were fantastic...enough said. I asked what else was good and he recommended the fresh asparagus salad. This was awesome - yummy mustardy dressing, fresh spring asparagus! I ate every last morsel. Next course, after another large pour of my pinot, the scallop risotto! Delish!! The chef was preparing this right before my eyes and although I would have preferred for my cholesterol's sake to know a little less about the butter poaching process after watching, it was fantastic!! Everything was seasoned to perfection and again, ate every last bite! Couple of other things to note - great bread with olive oil, great tunes (Ne-yo - could you make me any happier?) and every single person in the entire bar was a brunette! After living in AZ for too long, what a welcomed site! Next trip back to Boston, I will for sure stop into B&G for a little Ne yo, scallop and oyster love!
(4)David R.
Lobster roll and clam chowder as good as advertised. Not the usual Boston seafood joint either. Definitely worth a return visit, even from a New Yorker.
(4)Chris D.
The restaurant itself is kind of cool. It's small and all the tables are around the centered kitchen. They play really cool and hip music. I was def disappointed in the food. I had the Pan seared halibut which was over cooked and $30 for a 4oz or 5oz portion. They definitly had a great selection on oysters but are over priced. The best part of our meal was the $14 dollar banana split desert but again over priced. We started with some oyster to share then both had a main entree with 2 glasses of wine. Oh and can't forget the $14 dollars desert and the bill was around $150. I don't mind spending $150-200 on dinner but when you don't enjoy it it's disappointing
(2)Enza D.
Best Cherrystones around!! I dine here once a week and their raw bar is without a doubt the BEST in Boston. Their shrimp cocktail, oysters and cherrystones are soooo good and always super fresh! My absolute favorite dish on the menu has got to be their lobster club and their fried clams take a close second. I also prefer their No.9 Pinot Blanc, it goes perfectly with their raw bar items!
(5)Ravi M.
B&G is a swank Oyster Bar that makes good use of limited space. The open kitchen surrounded by a white marble bar is a nice idea. The food is fresh and tastes quite delicious. The service is courteous and friendly. There's a good wine list with French wines in the majority (my opinion based on a very limited knowledge of wines). We started with a platter of fresh oysters from different locales, which we enjoyed very much. However, the best oysters are the fat and succulent Bluff Oysters from New Zealand! (thought I'd stir the pot a little...) If you are looking for seafood in a classy setting without it being too stuffy this is a good place.
(4)Mike G.
what luck to get seats at the counter 7:30 friday despite the dinner crush, bar capt'n tara cheerfully kept all of us bar side watered, fed and chatted up. our choices included fresh, plump oysters & fried MD soft shell crabs piled high with spicy cress, a thick slab of salmon came with fennel, citrus salad and nutty, healthy fregola sarda-aka sardinian couscous-that i don't come across much in these parts. large scallops in garlic chive broth was sweet and sea-tangy. fine wine selection and a great looking, tasty greek yoghurt panna cotta. great fun to eyeball all the dishes coming out of the compact kichen and planning out the next meal. veddy good indeed.
(5)Peter G.
A big 'Meh' on the famous lobster roll. At $25-27 it is the most expensive in the city, and so naturally I was expecting a lot. I am always game for trying the gussied up version of a beach shack classic. Boy was I disappointed. The lobster was rubbery (read: NOT FRESH) and tasteless. Presentation was off the charts arriving looking absolutely perfect and like it just came back from a photo shoot. A moderate amount of beautiful lobster with just enough mayonnaise to hold it together and the perfect amount of diced celery on a rather nondescript roll. It may as well have just left the photo shoot. But looks alone do not good food make. Did I mention it's also quite small? This coming from someone who struggles to finish meals out, usually. The side tarragon fries were quite delicious, however. But the excellent fries are not worth the price of admission. The namesake oysters are delicious, but expensive. Especially when you consider the same oysters sourced from the exact same local farmers can be had for less. But what they lack in price they make up with a great daily variety. If you MUST have oysters and they MUST be in the South End this is your place and you will not be disappointed. If you are open to other neighborhoods there are much cheaper options for fresh local oysters. Don't come here for the over-priced, tiny, and tasteless Lobster roll. You can get a much better one for much cheaper elsewhere in the city and if sophistication is a must - go to Neptune. Does anyone else miss their old sign that had a very ambiguous oyster on it? (For the curious it looked like a poop).
(2)Jeannie H.
I cannot even begin to fathom how this place is deserving of 4 to 5 stars. I don't think I would have found it this offensive if it wasn't for the high prices for this level of mediocrity. The portion sizes are pathetic with entrees the size of appetizers. I left there unsatisfied. ATMOSPHERE - Stark and uninteresting but overall, an appropriate bar setting. SERVICE - The service is appalling. My reservation was for 5:15PM. I was seated at 5PM. After asking for our server multiple times, we finally had our orders taken at 5:15. Appetizers arrived at the table at 5:30 and the entrees came at 6:15! If you can't even service your customers at 5PM, I'm not sure what you're capable of at peak hour. FOOD - The bread is horrible. It's hard, dry, and stale. Oysters of the Day - They definitely have a nice selection of oysters but I'm not sure why people consider this a destination spot for seafood. I'd rather go to Neptune for oysters. Roasted Mussels (spicy red sauce, garlic bruschetta, scallions) - The mussels were perfectly tender and plump but the sauce was, dare I say, bland. Bouillabaisse (cockles, mussels, shrimp, calamari, rouille) - Bouillabaisse is usually a fulfilling and hearty dish but this was spartan and small in portion size. I just couldn't fill up on this $22 entree. I don't understand the hype. The flavours were solid but there was nothing special or interesting about the dishes. It feels like there was such a lack of effort or creativity. I definitely won't be back.
(2)Sara S.
4.25.09 Walked over to B&G on Saturday for some lobster goodness take-out. Sitting at the bar counter, sipping cold draft Radebergers.. watching some little girl bouncing up and down to 'Boom Boom Pow,' I observed the relaxed pace of the prep-work in the open kitchen as the warm breeze flowed through the small space. Everything was packed in white paper containers in a large brown bag, and we walked back to Commonwealth & Exeter to eat on H's apartment steps. There were little containers of arugula salad, sweet bread and butter pickles.. and then there were the highlights.. Discussing what makes the perfect lobster roll can lead to a highly volatile debate, so this is just my opinion! I would rate B&G's lobster roll in the top half of lobster rolls but not much higher due to style (and perhaps cost, although there are some really great $25 lobster rolls out there worth that price). I'm a fan of the buttered toasted hot dog roll, sparse celery, light to medium-light mayo; B&G's is more of a sandwich- between two thick, hard slices of bread lie large pieces of sweet lobster meat (both knuckle and tail), very minimally seasoned, successful in sparingly using celery and mayo. It was very good, but.. Where B&G really succeeds is with the B.L.T with Lobster. This is one of the more amazing sandwiches I have ever had. It is served on the same bread and the lobster meat is accompanied by bacon, lettuce and tomato (obviously). The greasy saltiness of the bacon with fresh lettuce and tomato lends just the right mix to elevate the lobster five notches. The sandwiches were very filling, and it was a very satisfying experience. Also, this Sunday, May 3rd, B&G is hosting the May Oyster Invitational, which looks amazing!
(4)fred f.
a solid "meh" . The waitress was attentive, helpful, fun. She really helped us have a fun night. That's An easy 5 stars for her. But my friends and I have tried forever to get into this place and it's always booked. We felt super-lucky to score some seats for New Years Eve. But sad to say, we were kinda underwhelmed. Oysters were great but pretty darned overpriced. Fried clams good: almost great, but we can get better ( and many more clams for the same price) up in Essex County for less pretense, and no worries of a week wait-list to get into the restaurant. calamari are pretty good (but where the heck were the tentacles, B+G?). The brandade seemed way under-hydrated : it was almost inedibly salty. Friends had an octopus and squid ink pasta they reported as kinda tasteless. So i guess I'd say food ranks somewhere around 2 stars. So we'll give it a 3 star rating for our superb and helpful waitress. Kinda disappointed in the food and the cost though. Makes me wonder what all the buzz is about this place.
(3)Jen L.
The wine and the oysters definitely deserve 4 stars. But everything else is just okay. The portions here are really small - and I am the type of person who usually complains about big portions! Trust me. But if I'm paying $27 for a lobster roll it should be a LOT larger than it was. The sandwich looked especially tiny and sad since the rest of the plate was covered with french fries, which were tasty, but come on! A note to Ms. Lynch: I am here for the lobster, not the sides! I have similar complaints about the oyster po'boy. It is served in a largish bun with tons of lettuce and three tiny fried oysters. Given the size of the bun, the sandwich could have used twice that many oysters. And like the lobster roll, the po'boy was served with a mountain of chips. Very frustrating. I'm not going to totally diss this place though. The patio seating is awesome on a warm summer day and the service is pretty good. I'd recommend coming for oysters and wine only and moving on elsewhere for dinner.
(3)Mimi D.
No matter what kind you get the oysters all melt in your mouth. They were all soooo amazing. I wish I had more money so I could keep slurping down these raw pieces of love all night long. The wait was worth it. It was tiny and cramped but the food was excellent. Service was also super friendly. The poached lobster was amazing. The lobster roll and fries were also a great choice.
(5)Kevin W.
not sure this place needs another glowing review. i just wanted to say that i loved this place, best clam chowder i've ever had. i wanted to take that olive oil straight to the face. they do all the little things right.
(5)Stephanie R.
Delish! Totally pigged out here and had a wide sampling of seafood: lobster roll (we all agreed that this was one of if not the best ever!), dozens of oysters, artichoke and asparagus salad, mussels, and lobster mac n' cheese. The only weak dish was the mac n' cheese, but only because we didn't taste or see any lobster in the dish! Otherwise, everything else more than made up for this mishap. This place only has a limited number of tables, so be sure to book in advance!
(5)Stephanie C.
On this trip to Boston we made the decision to venture away from our beloved Neptune and over to Barbara Lynch's oyster house. I'm glad we tried something new. The neighborhood, for one, is adorable. Set amongst brownstones you instantly feel like you're in for a leisurely dining experience. We arrived for our lunchtime reservation and sat on their 'not to be beat' patio. I'm currently thinking of what kind of private party I can have down there. Rather than order entrees we decided to go with a dozen oysters and three appetizers. At first I got the impression that the waitress was less than thrilled with us but she became friendlier as the day went on. Her recommendations for oysters and a paired wine were spot on. oysters were fresh and I was stunned at how the shuckers are able to preserve so much brine. Off the menu we ordered the heirloom tomato salad, the asparagus. The asparagus with fried egg was the star of the appetizer course, followed by the heirloom tomato salad. Though I'll be back to Neptune the next time I can foresee another trip to B&G for the Lobster BLT.
(3)James N.
Pretty good overall. Had the lobster roll, they do put a lot of lobster in it which is great, and it was good but I think maybe my expectations were too high. The fried oysters were absolutely delicious though, and are a must-have. I would go back again for the fried oysters.
(4)Anthony C.
Should I care that this is a total Yuppie hangout? Que la faune n'est pas super sympathique? I probably should, but I can't when the food is so delicious. Seafood restaurants in Boston are generally pretty good. But this one! The fish is of course great. But that roasted beet appetizer w/the pistachio cream! Just as good. A meal here costs twice the price of one at Legal. So go half as many times. Dessert is only OK. Waitstaff is solicitous but not unctuous. This is praise. Yum.
(5)Caroline L.
Okay food for an overhyped price. The oysters were good. We had the lobster roll and the hake. While both were good, we found it over priced.
(3)Christine C.
4 stars for food and 3 stars for service.Not that this place needs any more reviews, but I wanted to add my praise to the mix. I came here for lunch with a few friends. It wasn't too busy at the time, around 1pm on a gorgeous sunny Saturday in May. We asked for an assortment of oysters and a recommendation for a white wine to start. I loved that the servers asked for our usual preference, recommended a few similar, and also mentioned a few different kinds that we may not have tried. I was a fan of the Duxbury, but overall all the oysters were lovely and tasty. Most of us got the lobster roll and one had the halibut. I prefer the lobster roll here to the one at Island Creek. Similar amount of lobster, but they use less mayo here and I like B&G's bread better. The restaurant is pretty small with limited seating inside. I call it charming, but others may feel cramped. We sat outside in the patio, which was cute and well shaded. The food was great, but I was a bit disappointed with the service. It took us forever to get a waiter over to take our order. After taking our oyster and wine order, it seemed to be another 30 before he came for our entree order. On top of that, they forgot to put our shisito peppers order in, so we got it after we finished all the food...2.5 hours later. 2+ hours for lunch on a not so busy Saturday seemed a bit much.
(4)Rob C.
First, the service - at first I thought my guest and I would be a little under dressed for this place, but the host was wearing jeans, so I guess we were fine. Oh, and this was no ordinary host - I mentioned that I had a metered spot and would need to seek quarters and feed it. He said, "don't worry, I'll take care of that." Sure enough, about an hour later I gave him some cash and he fed my meter! Awesomeness. Our waitress was spot on and we had a view of the chefs at work who were nice enough to entertain our questions while we watched them work. Food was great and about what I'd expect for the price. My friend got a monster lobster roll that he loved but it looked like a lot of liquid was pouring out of it (IMO). I got the halibut, which was cooked perfectly.
(4)Ayala K.
Very nice, cozy space. Efficient reservation process. For someone visiting from the San Francisco Bay Area, the food is kind of OK -- nothing to be excited about. The gnocchi was kind of stiff and flavorless. The seared tuna, cioppino and cod entrees, edible. No reasonable ratio between the extremely high price and the food quality and lack of cuisine originality. Super petite portions. Overpriced wine list. Zagat has completely overrated this place.
(2)Maria Z.
I finally figured out where I like my oysters from! This place gives you a sample card to take home. I like oysters from cold water better - New Brunswick to be precise.
(4)Karen K.
5 stars for easily the best oysters I have ever had. Sorry Connie Teds in W Hollywood - I don't care how fast you can ship them. Oysters will always be better closer to their origin. Side note - we were excited for the birthday cake. Very disappointing.
(5)Nhi N.
I've had food here twice, both times the food was really good. It won't change your life, but it's very solid. They have a great selection of oysters, and it's always fresh and delicious. The lobster roll was good but nothing to write home about. The bisque was really good, however. I had a scallop dish the first time I was there (for restaurant week), and that was good, but also not amazing. I would've added another star if the service was better. I'm usually not one of those difficult customers who demanded a lot of attention and docked stars if I didn't get good service, but for the price we're paying and the attitude we're receiving, it's kind of unfair to give a good review when the service is not satisfactory. The first time, perhaps because it was too busy, we waited for a reallyyyyy long time between dishes, and waited at least 20 minutes before the check came. The second time - maybe it's an off day? maybe the weather got cold the first time in the season today and no one at B&G found it in themselves to be nice? Our water was never once filled and we were never asked for our order until we decided to be rude and waved at someone, even though it was after 1:30 pm and there were only 2 tables and a few bar seats occupied. And everyone was slightly sarcastic for no reason, and one of the servers kept questioning my order (not in the "excuse me I didn't catch that" kind of way but more like "are you sure you want that?").It's hard to explain, and it's not just me being paranoid - my friend had to agree, and he's the most easygoing person you'll ever meet. Sigh. It was a really weird experience. Not sure if it's worth coming back when I have Coppa & Toro right around the corner...
(3)Josephine L.
I've come to the conclusion that I'm never going to have my mind blown by a Barbara Lynch restaurant. I've been to them all except Menton and the experiences have ranged from quite good to severely, overratedly disappointing. B&G falls on the better end of that spectrum. It has almost the exact same layout as all the other Tremont St/South End restaurants (think loooong bar with 2-4 seater tables surrounding it in a rectangular room), meaning you should make reservations if you hope to get your party of 4 plus 3 strollers of squalling infants seated at 8pm on a Friday night (seriously, who does that?). My friend and I came here first and foremost for the oysters. We tried 3 different kinds and they were all fantastically fresh if not pricey. If you like your oysters meaty and sweet...y, go for West Coast oysters. I recommend the Puget Sound ones. If you like briney, go for East Coast/Virginia oysters. Of course, they all taste like seafood sauce to me because I'm too much of a baby to enjoy the actual taste of oysters (I think they taste like ocean vomit). But I'm also too much of a wuss to actually swallow the damn things whole, so I always end up partially chewing them and thus tasting them anyway. For entrees, I got the Red Snapper and my friend got the Sturgeon special. Both were very well-done, though the Snapper edges out for me on account of the delicious cauliflower puree. Puree is the new sauce. Mashed up cauliflowers make good sauce. We both enjoyed wine pairings too and both her Riesling and my Sauvignon Blanc were fantastic. Thank ye waiter for the recs! Overall, a great place to have a delicious seafood dinner and catch up with a foodie friend. For the same price range, I'd put B&G over Sportello and The Butcher Shop.
(4)Kimble M.
Oysters, oysters and more oysters. And some other seafood, but really, it's all about the oysters. B&G can be a little pricey, but it's always worth it. For the ideal experience, come with one other person, a fellow oyster lover, in the lull between lunch and dinner, sit at the bar, order some wine, and have them choose an array of the lunch oysters to serve you with a side of their perfect little mignonette. Drink, catch up, savor the nuances between their varied oyster selections, then do it all over again, this time with a selection of the dinner oysters and a different, crisp, well-paired wine suggestion. With the right companion, you'll have an excellent afternoon of eating, learning about the different kind of oysters, a good buzz and some sparkling conversation.
(5)Sammi N.
This place already gets wayyyyy too many reviews, so what's my extra one got to do with it. Well... #1: I like to think I have followers who trust my reviews #2: I am bored at work and I need something productive to do I love oysters! And B&G is my fave in the city. I haven't been to Neptune so please don't email me and argue that Neptune is better. If you go here, make a reservation; if not, bar seats open up fairly easily on a weekday night. On a nice night, ask to sit outside on the patio (they also have heat on a cooler day). Most romantic outdoor dining in the city! Plan of attack: #1 order champagne. I like a glass of Simonet. (hey, if you're going oysters, might as well go like a baller) #2 order oysters and get a sample of everything! You can never go wrong, especially if you love oysters #3 skip the entrees, and order apps for your main course - I love the calamari (so fresh!), mussels, and split the lobster roll (that's if you're dining for 2 people - share everything). Service here is stellar! Not pretentious whatsoever as you would expect from a high-end seafood restaurant. They are attentive, laid-back, young and professional. I'm always impressed when you read off a whole list of the kinds of oysters you want, and they never have to write it down! It is pricey, so go on special occasions... unless you're a baller, then splurge my friend... you won't be disappointed! Barbara Lynch knows what she's doing.
(5)Liza K.
This place is adorably charming with a tightly spaced dining area, but it all flowed fairly nicely. I had the lobster roll and a plate of fresh oysters. I have to say it wasn't THE best lobstah roll I've had in Boston, but it was certainly up there and definitely worth a comparison. The meat was plentiful, dressed to the T, and fresh. But for me the lobster meat was missing that hint of sweet oceanie goodness. The fries...oooooh yeah the fries were as good as fries get, crispy on the outside nuttin but fluff on the inside - addictive. The bread and butter pickles were also a great compliment. The oysters were fresh and succulent as well. I'm glad we tried it, parking was a pain but where isn't it in Boston? I would definitely come back again to try other items.
(4)Stephanie C.
Oh My. I went a little crazy here, well because, it's Boston and I love me some oysters and fish. Amazing lobster roll? B&G's got it. Amazing lobster bisque? Got it. Amazing fresh, fish entrees? Got it. Amazing Oyster's that taste good, and are fun to watch while being shucked? Yes. Yes, Yes. You get the picture. If ever in Boston, come here. I would say this is kind of like Rodney's Oyster House in Vancouver for any Canadians reading this, which I also liked very much. Maybe a more casual Aquagrill (dare I?- from my observativation, not experience)- or maybe more of a BLT Fish. I made a reservation for me and girlfriend for 8pm on a Thursday night and we were seated promptly at the bar. Decor is trendy, sceney, and modern. WIth buzzing conversation in the background and pleasant service (very professional, polite.. as you'd see these type of upscale places but still the right amount of cas-they do takeout!) Our server make great suggsestions, esp when explaining the oyster selection; we overall had a really nice meal. What to get: My friend- an entree: the swordfish. Amazing mustard greens - perfectly picked and crunchy (they're often soggy) . Decadent olive relish (I love olives)- the perfect mix between salty and sour which complimented the fish like nobody's business. The fish was not overcooked, which is perfect for a tougher fish like swordfish...well, it was tough. How it should be. Grilled to perfection .. even the lime beans tasted good! ;). Other recommendations, says our waiter: the cod ( great choice in New England) Me- Ready for an oinky moment? Raw bar, 1/2 dozen of a random assortment. I told them to bring out there best... needless to say, I mostly got west coast oysters (wah wah)- from CA and Washington state, mainly from the kumamoto family... sweet, tiny and delish. But there were some east coasters- from Long Island. I think I had a Woodbury Littleneck too (see they feature these all alone on the menu). Everything was really fresh- no sauce needed! Me- Lobster Bisque. Talk about creamy lobster and plentiful lobster chunks! The celery was a nice addition too- spices up the texture. Main takeaway: creamy deliciousness with lots of sweet lobster. Bowl was an appetizer but was it was pretty big! :) Us- We shared the lobster roll. Love the buttery pickles- two flavors I thought would never mix but Chef Barbara Lynch makes it work. A New England classic, this roll has all the right ingridients. Fresh white bread, crispy , pipping hot fries and lots of sweet lobster claw. Yum! Just like in Maine :) Us again: DESSERT: BarbanCourt Rum Cake.. why do I always feel like seafood joints have rum desserts? Maybe it's because we're all wishing it's hot summer day and we're lying down somewhere on an island HAHA. This cake had a strong rum flavor; I liked this. Not a huge fan of caramel because it's often too sweet but the walnut brittle eased it with some bitterness. And the maple ice cream was divine. Ok, we spend a fortune. Let's say the oysters were $3 a punch, and the entrees somewhere in the mid-upper $20s, and the bisque was $14. NY Prices- but like the 212, great service and atmosphere. I would come back (and tone it down of course) but I have no regrets! :) 4 Stars!
(4)Lisa S.
After months of hearing about B&G Oysters, I finally made it! It is difficult to get a reservation- we reserved 2 weeks in advance and only 6:30pm was available. The restaurant is small and intimate. The kitchen is open, surrounded by a long bar counter with bar stools, and a few tables along the wall. They also have an outdoor patio for nicer weather. The dress code is casual- I wore a nice dress there, and while waiting for the bathroom, another woman in line asked me if I had a special event I was going to. Most people were wearing nice jeans and a dressy top, or a casual dress. We were seated right away and brought delicious bread and olive oil. The bread was refilled when we emptied it, but was brought with a small amount of olive oil. We had to ask for more, and then ran out of it again. My dad made a joke about how the olive oil was rationed, so it was a bit awkward. My mom and I actually don't like oysters (I know, sacrilegious!), so we opted for other choices on the menu. I ordered the fried calamari and a lobster roll, and my mother ordered a shrimp cocktail (priced per shrimp, you pick how many) and a lobster roll. My dad ordered 4 different kinds of oysters- starting with 4 as an appetizer and 8 later as his entree. If you love oysters, they have a whole oyster menu and charge per oyster- so you can easily have an oyster tasting meal. We ordered a few glasses of wine to start and then a bottle of wine, but my parents were a bit disappointed in the wine list. There were bottles on the menu that were quite expensive ($80ish), and only a few bottles in a bit more reasonable price range. However, all the wines we had were delicious- but more price diversity on the menu would have been appreciated. My father said that the oysters were clean and fresh and he really enjoyed them. My fried calamari was amazing, and the portion was quite large. My mom's shrimp were huge and tasty. The oysters and shrimp arrived on ice at the table, which was a cute touch. My mom and I LOVED our lobster rolls- they were simple, overflowing with delicious lobster, and served with absolutely amazing french fries. It also came with some pickles and "coleslaw" that was unlike any I've had before- normally I *hate* coleslaw, but their version was so tasty that I ate every bite. Definitely no complaints on the food whatsoever. We finished our meal by sharing a pecan pie sundae, which was pretty tasty. Our waitress was really nice but she went a bit MIA during the meal. The timing was a bit off with my dad's reordering oysters- we had all finished appetizers, my mom and I got our food, and the waitress didn't come by for maybe 5 minutes to get his order for his next round of oysters, so my mom and I just sat there staring at our delicious lobster roll. We would have been more annoyed, except she looked pretty busy in the few times we saw her run by. Overall, I enjoyed my dinner at B&G. The space was adorable, the food and wine were delicious, and we went out for drinks in the South End afterward. However, I think it would be more enjoyable if you came in for casual oysters at the bar with a date rather than planning a family dinner ahead of time.
(4)Dennis E.
oysters were heavenly. opted for the raspberry point ones on the waiters recommendation they were amaaaazing. i'm an oyster fiend and my girl isn't but was comfortable with the other seafood items on the menu. i really like a small menu that ensures fresh great food so the limitations I saw as a major benefit. oh yea and they were interviewing the award-winning owner for TV on the table next to me, which helps score points with your girl when she gets on TV! great service, cool atmosphere, everything I could of wanted topped with horseradish this place is my oyster
(5)Tamika H.
Hubby and I visited this place with friends and was blow away by the food. It was INCREDIBLE, and cooked to perfection. I had the Cod, which was beautifully prepared. We also enjoyed the wine selection; we paired the Spanish wine selection with our food, which worked well. It does get very loud, but this was not an issue for us. Also important to note that you will feel as if you are seated in the kitchen. The kitchen is open and you have a great view into how the food is being prepared. I really like that! We will definitely be visiting this place again.
(4)Christine J.
OYSTERS........ DROOOOOOL.... DELICIOUS. A FAN OF BL restaurants.
(4)Valarie G.
Came here for dinner Sunday night. I got a call about 15 minutes before heading out the door from the restaurant to inform us that they were out of lobster already. When we arrived, we were promptly sat at our table despite the line waiting out the door because we had a reservation. I ordered the tuna, but they were out of that as well, along with the clam chowder- leaving only fried dishes or halibut or bass. (they replaced the clam chowder with corn chowder but who comes to Boston for corn chowder?) I had one of the bass dishes, but was disappointed that they were out of so many of their better options. The service was ok - had to stop our waitress each time we needed more water. Also the music was very very loud and played early 90s rap, which for me destroyed the ambiance. My husband and I had to yell to hear each other over the "music". Finally our food came and the portions were small, but the food was very good. Too bad I already felt cheated out of lobster of tuna (or clam chowder!) to really enjoy my bass. Overall I was very disappointed with B&G Oysters - probably because this was the #1 meal I was most excited about on my trip to Boston. What a let down!
(2)Tara H.
I am officially an oyster fan. The credit goes to B & G Oysters. I've had oysters maybe 2 times, and nothing about it was increadibly memorable. Yeah, they were tasty. But that was about it. However, the deliciousness that is B&G totally has me hooked. First off, I went with two oyster pros who ordered choices I was totally unfamiliar with. This doesn't help with the details of the oysters themselves. However each oyster was perfection, perhaps one of the most tiny yet filling treats I have ever devoured. Served on ice, and the most fresh tasting sauce to accompany each, I was blown away. I couldn't get enough. And if I had my way, I could have kept going. What really was a delight on top of all this, my friends and I arrived around 7pm on a Saturday and got outside seating immediately. AND we spoke with two waitresses, who really took time not only to discuss the menu but also just spoke with us in general. We had beyond superb service, which made this final meal with my friends before moving a truly beautiful night. Perhaps two hours later, we left full and tipsy, pleased with our evening. I miss this place!
(5)