The South End neighborhood has changed so much since I was a little girl, especially the far end of Harrison Avenue. What used to be blocks of warehouses and parking lots in the shadow of the Mass Pike on ramp is now home to luxury condo buildings, a shiny new Whole Foods and a few exceptional restaurants. Bar Mezzana, the Italian restaurant co-owned by three Barbara Lynch Gruppo alums, is part of that Harrison Avenue transformation.
This Italian oasis is helmed by Jefferson Macklin, chef Colin Lynch and general manager Heather Lynch (Colin's wife). All three come from Barbara Lynch's team (the Lynches, Barbara and Colin, are not related). Chef Colin Lynch has cooked at No. 9 Park, Menton and O Ya.
In a message to diners on their website, the co-founders share, "When we set out to open our own restaurant, our mission was simple: to offer our guests a warm and inviting space with truly amazing service and hospitality, good energy, and great food, cocktails, and wines. This is what we strive to do each day at Bar Mezzana."
On the evening I visited, I arrived with a friend at 6:30pm. We had made a reservation online (super easy) and earlier that day the restaurant had texted to confirm we were still on. Side note: I love when restaurants text instead of call. Who likes to see an unknown phone number on their cell in the middle of the work day? Not me.
As you approach Bar Mezzana, you can't help but notice the tangerine umbrellas dotting the outdoor patio. They immediately reminded me of the signature orange and red umbrellas of the Amalfi Coast in Italy.
We were seated at a table for two, set against the floor-to-ceiling windows. Though I had already stalked the menu online, I couldn't wait to peruse again.
To begin, we each ordered a drink. My dinner date went with a glass of rosé, which she enjoyed so much, she swiftly ordered another. Notice the "M" on the glass.
I had a horribly stressful work day that day, so I went for a cocktail. I chose the Three Family Farm which was Prairie cucumber vodka, lemon and amaro montenegro. The drink came in a chilled glass and was the most beautiful amber color. I thought it was so sweet and charming that it came garnished with a flower.
This drink is wonderfully light and refreshing, perfect for summer. Had I not been driving home, I definitely would have had another.
While we looked over the food menus (the dinner menu and the crudo menu) our waitress brought us bread and olive oil. The focaccia was savory, salty, doughy and delicious. The olive oil had the purest taste. You felt like you were truly dining in Italy.
Because I am a vegetarian and the menu leans heavily in the seafood direction, we asked our waitress for her recommendations on the best veg-friendly dishes. Her first suggestion was the tomato and goat cheese crostini. She could see on our faces that we thought that might be too simple, but she assured us the flavors were incredible despite the small number of ingredients. We decided to trust her pick, so we ordered that and the pea salad to start.
My friend took one bite of the crostini and said, "I don't think I have ever had tomatoes that tasted this good. She did not steer us wrong!"
We both loved the char on the bread, the schmear of goat cheese on each piece and the bright, fresh tomatoes. I was worried the goat cheese might overpower the dish, but the tomato was truly the star.
In the Boston Magazine review of the restaurant, Corby Kummer praised chef Lynch, "Like Ana Sortun and Yotam Ottolenghi, Lynch likes putting plush beds of soft cheese or sweetly spiced, bright-orange squash tahini under both toast toppings and salads, which he’s pretty brilliant at conceiving." I have to concur!
I don't even know where to begin with the pea salad (sorry Branch Line pea salad, I cheated on you!). This dish tasted like each element was picked from the farm minutes before landing on the plate. The salad uses every element of the pea - the individual peas, the pea pods and the pea tendrils.
The pea extravaganza is complimented by ricotta salata and crunchy pistachios.
For the main course, we both went with pasta. My friend opted for the spaghetti with squid ink, calamari and salami. It came in the most elegant presentation, sprinkled with bread crumbs.
After a few bites she shared, "There is so much ink! The spaghetti is drenched, in a great way. It tastes even better with the calamari and salami mixed in."
Before choosing a dish, I turned to our waitress (again) for her expert advice. She said several of the pasta dishes that have meat could be made vegetarian, but then she uttered the magic words, "We also have an off-menu dish, spaghetti cacio e pepe." If you are a longtime Pop.Bop.Shop. reader, you know that is my favorite Italian pasta dish. I handed her back my menu and shouted, "I will definitely have that!"
The cacio e pepe came in the same delicate, rolled presentation as the squid ink pasta.
I think the best cacio e pepe is at Babbo and I have to say, that still holds true. The Bar Mezzana version needed a creamier texture and a few more shakes of pepper.
Once our dinner plates were cleared, the waitress asked if we'd like to see a dessert menu. As my mom says, "We always look!"
We decided to try two of the gelato flavors - pistachio and vanilla caramel (there was no chocolate option, which I obviously would have ordered). Our two scoops came in a silver dish with a cookie divider. How cute!
I don't normally order pistachio, so I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but I loved it! The pistachio flavor was subtle and the ice cream itself was super creamy. The vanilla caramel swirl was also yummy and would taste incredible over a chocolate brownie.
Though I had no intention of trying the cookie (chocolate or bust), my friend raved about it saying, "Normally biscotti is super firm, tough to break and you need to dunk it in coffee or tea to enjoy it. This one is really easy to bite." The cookie had diced pistachios and a bit of orange zest in it, which I must admit, was quite good!
Overall, we loved our experience at Bar Mezzana. It was easy to make a reservation, we were seated immediately at a table with a great view, our waitress was wonderful and gave stellar recommendations and the food and drinks were off the charts delicious. I am still thinking about that tomato crostini.
Have you been to Bar Mezzana? What should I try next?
Comments
Chelsea Marrs
Sun, 07/30/2017 - 21:38
I keep hearing about this place, I need to check it out! So glad your waitress steered you in the right direction for the veggie options, and that squid ink pasta looks divine!
Chelsea
Chow Down USA
Instagram
Kristen Fenton
Wed, 08/02/2017 - 16:17
glad you loved!! I need to go back.
shahmeer khan
Wed, 07/01/2020 - 00:41
Wonderful goods from you, man. I have understand your stuff previous to and you’re just extremely wonderful. I really like what you’ve acquired here, really like what you’re stating and the way in which you say it. You make it enjoyable and you still care for to keep it wise. I can not wait to read much more from you. This is really a great site. certificate printing services
shahmeer khan
Mon, 07/27/2020 - 12:51
i was home schooled when i was still very young and i have to stay that it is also a great way to educate your kids~ mobile pet grooming scheduling software
shahmeer khan
Fri, 08/21/2020 - 05:42
Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything in this way before. So nice to locate somebody by incorporating original ideas on this subject. realy we appreciate you beginning this up. this website is something that is required on the net, an individual with a little originality. helpful task for bringing a new challenge towards the world wide web! Makler Nürnberg
shahmeer khan
Sat, 09/05/2020 - 13:47
Once the receiver has run a few yards the coach throws him the football. The defensive back if he has timed his run and has taken the proper angle should be at the receiver the same time the ball arrives. vaobong.biz
shahmeer khan
Mon, 09/07/2020 - 07:50
No building out on second floors of houses to abut other houses across street - but everyone did. sv388.com
shahmeer khan
Wed, 09/16/2020 - 11:17
Good day! I know this is kinda off topic but I’d figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in trading links or maybe guest writing a blog article or vice-versa? My site discusses a lot of the same subjects as yours and I think we could greatly benefit from each other. If you’re interested feel free to send me an e-mail. I look forward to hearing from you! Superb blog by the way! deer proof garden fence
shahmeer khan
Thu, 10/01/2020 - 12:27
A formidable share, I just given this onto a colleague who was doing a little analysis on this. And he in truth bought me breakfast as a result of I discovered it for him.. smile. So let me reword that: Thnx for the deal with! But yeah Thnkx for spending the time to debate this, I feel strongly about it and love studying more on this topic. If possible, as you become expertise, would you thoughts updating your weblog with more details? It is extremely useful for me. Large thumb up for this blog post! real estate agent frankfurt
shahmeer khan
Tue, 10/06/2020 - 08:38
very good post, i surely love this excellent website, keep on it normanton park floor plan
Robin Jack
Wed, 10/14/2020 - 06:40
Aw, i thought this was quite a nice post. In notion I would like to put in place writing such as this additionally – taking time and actual effort to generate a very good article… but so what can I say… I procrastinate alot and also no means manage to go completed. One Pearl Bank Showflat
Robin Jack
Sun, 11/08/2020 - 06:57
the idea beach towel should be colored white because it reflects heat away’ houston embroidery service
Robin Jack
Sat, 11/14/2020 - 09:48
Some times its a pain in the ass to read what website owners wrote but this site is rattling user pleasant! . umrah packages
Robin Jack
Sun, 11/15/2020 - 03:23
A teaser bet in sports betting is actually a proposition bet that allows you to change the odds for the bet in either direction so that the wager is in your favour. w88
Robin Jack
Tue, 11/17/2020 - 05:02
Good post and a pleasant summation of the problem. My only problem with the analysis is given that much of the population joined the chorus of deregulatory mythology, given vested interest is inclined toward perpetuation of the current system and given a lack of a popular cheerleader for your arguments, I’m not seeing much in the way of change. migos type beat
Robin Jack
Wed, 11/18/2020 - 02:43
The increasing experience in the game makes player more addicted towards it. m88
Robin Jack
Thu, 11/19/2020 - 05:12
When I originally commented I clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and today every time a comment is added I receive four emails concentrating on the same comment. Can there be in whatever way you can remove me from that service? Thanks! Papenburg Haus kaufen
Robin Jack
Tue, 11/24/2020 - 04:12
Even though the betting itself is simple, you still have a chance of losing money, which just takes away from the thrill of the game. keonhacai.net
Robin Jack
Thu, 11/26/2020 - 06:37
If you enjoy watching sports and love even making a consistent profit and living betting on sports, you know that you must CONSTANTLY analyze the sports betting odds and sports betting lines of each and every game you decide to bet on. sbobet
Robin Jack
Thu, 11/26/2020 - 06:37
As you scroll down the page you are assaulted with photos of scribbled testimonials, grainy scans of betting slips, and more claims that read so outrageously that they scream scam!. sbobet.net
david warner
Wed, 12/02/2020 - 13:06
A debt of gratitude is in order for setting aside an ideal opportunity to talk about this, I feel emphatically about it and adoration adapting more on this point. In the event that conceivable, as you pick up skill, would you psyche upgrading your online journal with more data? It is greatly useful for me. tree base klear
david warner
Mon, 12/07/2020 - 05:55
Brilliant outlined data. I thank you about that. Most likely it will be exceptionally helpful for my future ventures. Might want to see some different posts on the same subject! voyance gratuite immediate par telephone
Robin Jack
Mon, 12/07/2020 - 11:53
The majority of mainstream online dating web sites will offer this basic dating feature on their web site so be certain to take advantage of profile building to boost your presence. A well thought out member profile is one of the most imortant steps that you can take to become successful at online dating, meet new people and friends and ultimately find the relationship you desire and deserve. hong kong dating
Robin Jack
Thu, 12/10/2020 - 04:51
Hey there! Good post! Please when all could see a follow up! smm panel
david warner
Wed, 12/16/2020 - 12:41
Nice to read your article! I am looking forward to sharing your adventures and experiences. skinactives reviews
jack man10
Sun, 12/20/2020 - 12:41
Many first time betters, and even some veteran betters blow all their money on one game because they are so sure of what the outcome will be. mbet88cvf
jack man10
Tue, 12/22/2020 - 06:47
Your current blogs usually have got a lot of really up to date info. Where do you come up with this? Just saying you are very inspiring. Thanks again space reservation software
jack man10
Thu, 12/24/2020 - 10:24
Follow the news also to see if theres any behind the scenes drams which could affect game day performance - it might not seem all that relevant but when you are factoring an issue into your sports betting tips, it could make all the difference. 12bet
jack man10
Wed, 12/30/2020 - 11:34
Sports betting experts aren't afraid to bet on a heavy favorite, even if it means giving up a lot of points to the betting line. To understand this better, and to see how to make money with sports betting, take a look at my analysis of the Utah St. vs. Nevada game: xsmb
jack man10
Thu, 12/31/2020 - 09:36
When you're looking for top-rated luxury transportation companies for car shipping, we are the right option in this matter. We are a car transportation company that can Cargo and freight transportation. You can trust as we take care of your car as if it was our own. Call us at (800) 392-1446!
cynthia 40
Wed, 01/13/2021 - 14:10
You have a decent point here!I thoroughly concur with what you have said!!Thanks for sharing your views...hope more individuals will read this article!!! Product Reviews
david warner
Thu, 01/14/2021 - 15:52
You completed a few fine points there. I did a search on the subject and found nearly all persons will go along with with your blog. end of tenancy clean leeds
cynthia 40
Sat, 01/23/2021 - 13:02
Awesome post, and extraordinary site. A debt of gratitude is in order for the data! Free downloads
cynthia 40
Sat, 01/23/2021 - 13:02
Extraordinary article Lot's of data to Read...Great Man Keep Posting and upgrade to People..Thanks Best Recruitment Company
cynthia 40
Sat, 01/23/2021 - 13:02
I as of late discovered numerous helpful data in your site particularly this web journal page. Among the bunches of remarks on your articles. A debt of gratitude is in order for sharing. Tech Blog
cynthia 40
Sat, 01/23/2021 - 13:03
I welcomed your work exceptionally thanks Beauty Tips
cynthia 40
Sat, 01/23/2021 - 13:03
Truly an extraordinary expansion. I have perused this brilliant post. A debt of gratitude is in order for sharing data about it. I truly like that. Much obliged so parcel for your assemble. Thermometers
jack man10
Wed, 01/27/2021 - 05:40
There are some interesting points in time in this article but I don’t know if I see all of them center to heart. There is some validity but I will take hold opinion until I look into it further. Good article , thanks and we want more! Added to FeedBurner as well… Buy Nembutal Pentobarbital Norway
cynthia 40
Thu, 01/28/2021 - 09:13
Great post however I was thinking about whether you could compose a litte more on this subject? I'd be extremely grateful in the event that you could expound a tad bit further. Welcome it! Kingston E Liquid
cynthia 40
Fri, 02/05/2021 - 15:43
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don’t know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog, I will keep visiting this blog very often. organic skin care products
cynthia 40
Wed, 02/10/2021 - 12:43
I might want to say this web journal truly persuaded me to do it! Much appreciated, great post. people search uk
jack man10
Sat, 02/20/2021 - 05:10
Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and really like learning more on this matter. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog page with more data? It’s extremely helpful for me. touch screen meeting room
david warner
Fri, 03/05/2021 - 18:05
This type of message always inspiring and I prefer to read quality content, so happy to find good place to many here in the post, the writing is just great, thanks for the post. KBC WhatsApp Number
Muhammad Ali
Sun, 03/07/2021 - 06:07
Great post, you have pointed out some fantastic points , I likewise think this s a very wonderful website. 먹튀검증사이트
Muhammad Ali
Mon, 03/08/2021 - 09:01
I needed to thank you for this incredible read!! I unquestionably adored each and every piece of it. I have you bookmarked your site to look at the new stuff you post. 먹튀
david warner
Mon, 03/08/2021 - 09:25
I have perused your article, it is exceptionally instructive and accommodating for me.I respect the important data you offer in your articles. A debt of gratitude is in order for posting it.. เว็บคาสิโนsexygame800
david warner
Wed, 03/10/2021 - 13:56
I love the way you write and share your niche! Very interesting and different! Keep it coming! Buy DMT
david warner
Sun, 03/14/2021 - 17:58
Precisely, you're exceptionally sort of us about remark!. sunglasses in bulk
Muhammad Ali
Mon, 03/15/2021 - 07:55
I am jovial you take pride in what you write. It makes you stand way out from many other writers that can not push high-quality content like you. 토토
david warner
Mon, 03/15/2021 - 12:57
I’ve been searching for some decent stuff on the subject and haven't had any luck up until this point, You just got a new biggest fan!.. makeup supplies wholesale