Rios Restaurant, the all-you-can-eat Brazilian BBQ on Andover St., seems to be shuttered. Weird, recently the family sunk major bucks into the space. Now they have a sign (written in Espanol) directing customers to the Oasis Grill —another fine Brazilian spot on Gorham. I called the Oasis and they don't seem to know anything about it. Lost in translation? You bet. Anyone know what happened? I went there once for a story and was not bowled over by the food. Much of it looked greasy. But I know it was a big hit w/the Brazilian community, so what do I know.
Comings: Good news for diner fans. Skip's may be on the way out, but Jessie’s Place is on the way in. Taking over the space vacated by the Flaky Pastry in Swinging Central Sq., Jessie’s could fill a needed niche. Sure, the Village Grill is great (try the ham and chicken pastry puffs), but the hardworking people of Chelms. need a down and dirty (not too filthy) spot to dash in and grab a coffee and English muff. No word on when it's opening, but I will keep you informed. What’s your favorite hash house?
We like the Bridgeview Diner on 3A in Tyngs., right near Sullivan Farms ice cream. It used to be way better when it was the Village Grille, but the guy who owned that had to sell due to health problems. It's still pretty good, and they do make a mean Greek omelet. And of course the Owl is without peer in the omelet and clam chowder arena.
Speaking of comings, I went to a tapas restaurant on Moody St in Waltham last week. I'd never had tapas before, and although I don't like to admit when I get caught up in some trend, I really liked it. When is the new place on Merrimack slated to abra las puertas?
What was the place on Moody? We like tips. Soleras, er something? That place is good. Look for Ole! to open by July 25.
Yes, that's it: Solea. I was there with a party of about 10 so we got to share a huge part of the menu (isn't that the point?). Excellent food and quickly served. Just down the street from F.C. Lowell's original mill, so it's sort of like keeping my dining dollars local, too :-)
I met the owner of the new Jabocas (sp?) Steak House (former site of Rios). It is going to be a more upscale version of the Brazilian BBQ churascaria. It is set to open in September 08!