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erbaluce Reviews List

erbaluce

Charles Draghi and Joan Johnson's highly acclaimed contemporary Italian restaurant and wine bar. With Charles' simple, ever changing menus, rooted in traditional regional Italian cooking,and the best seasonal local ingredients. This restaurant has won numerous awards and kudos from critics, and many dedicated customers. Along side the Italian menus are equally lauded, all Italian wine lists, comprised of rare and traditional village wines. Joan has created the inviting ambiance of erbaluce, which is lovely, simply elegant, and romantic- recalling the classic trattorias of Northern Italy. The enoteca/wine bar is a cozy and lively meeting place, with its own menu of simple plates and a fun cordials cocktail list. Joan's welcoming presence in the dining room, along with Charles' inventive cuisine and rare wine offerings, make an evening at erbaluce a truly wonderful and unique dining experience.
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254 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(254 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 254 reviews
5 stars
(127)
4 stars
(83)
3 stars
(27)
2 stars
(12)
1 star
(5)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Ambiance 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
Noise Level
2 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(193)
  • neighborhood gem(150)
  • special occasion(124)
  • notable wine list(94)
  • romantic(93)
  • hot spot(22)
erbaluce Reviews List
Review 1 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I am sure to dine here every time I travel to Boston (NYC is home); the approach and the execution are singularly thoughtful."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 2 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious post Blue Man Group meal!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The menu had so many tempting choices; it was hard to narrow down! Our family of four enjoyed lobster, pasta, and bluefish. All was sublime. Can't wait for the next time!"
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 3 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My favorite: excellent pasta with wild boar; every other dish at our 6-person table was great. Wonderful waiter--attentive, discreet, always ready but never intrusive. We loved our dinner."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 4 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

ceiling could be higher

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"superb service and location. food, while quality seasonal ingredient weighted and well-prepared, leaves room for creativity, refinement, layering of flavors. certain banality in combinations of ingredients--which is totally fine for a neighborhood joint without pretense for anything higher--but it would seem that erbaluce wants to be something more than a neighborhood joint. bottom line: $180 for two should deliver more of a gastronomic experience than "good" food, nice service and locale, congenial atmosphere."
Dined on 6/13/2013
 2006
Special Features: neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 5 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best Dinner Ever

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The meal we shared at Erbaluce was incredible. The variety was amazing and the execution of each dish extraordinary. We ordered a number of pasta dishes - all unique and spectacular along a few fish dishes and salads. The desserts were also delicious - perfect ending to one of the best meals ever."
Dined on 6/12/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 6 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The menu was varied and the entrees were all tasty. The sardine appetizer was great."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 7 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Entrees were a bit pricey and choices unusual....but interesting, Right in the theater district, so great for pre-theater dining."
Dined on 6/08/2013
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Review 8 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Wanted to be wowed, but disappoints

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We came to Erbaluce for a special occasion, college graduation celebration. The noise level made conversation difficult in the earlier part of the evening. By the time we had dessert, other diners had left, so we could hear one another more easily. The four of us chose different starters and entrees and shared a taste of one anothers' choices. Honestly, I found the food disappointing. My salad was pretty tasteless. I had halibut with a yellow pepper sauce; it was OK, but nothing to get excited about. One of our party had the wild boar; it seemed tough. My husband had pork cheeks and was pleased with his dinner. Personally, I couldn't care less about eating food without butter and cream...give me a flavorful meal in a quieter environment!"
Dined on 6/07/2013
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Review 9 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Packed, noisy and elegant

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Nice little place to discover but found it had a noise level that made it almost impossible to talk with my guests without shouting above the din. Tables seemed to be packed in very tight which made this a problem. Lighting was excellent and the quality of the food was very good. The dessert we chose was excellent. The wine list was extensive but written in a cursive script that made it almost impossible to read. Service was good except for having my guest'snear empty wine glass removed before she was done with it. Uneven would characterize those evening event with out if town guests."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 10 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

excellent restaurant

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/31/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This was our first time here....will definitely return. Food was very good. Service and ambience were excellent. Very warm and friendly"
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Romantic Dinner, Great Service

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 1/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Wife and I ate here before a show. They were very attentive to our timing and food was excellent. Had the truffle special appetizer which was great. Nice wine list."
Dined on 1/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 12 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I'd go back

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Went for the food and was not disappointed. Huge wine list. Helpful staff. Mackerel starter superb. Save room for desert too. Erbaluce is unsung. I'd like to keep it that way."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 13 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful dinner

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had dinner at Erbaluce with our close friends while visiting Boston from Philadelphia. This was one of the best dinners we have had out in years. The restaurant he menu is small but each appetizer and entree was perfectly executed. The shad roe appetizers were a dream. My Cavetelli with roasted tomato sauce, with fresh ricotta, was the perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and rich. When I told the waiter that I had grown up in CT where the running of spring shad was an annual event, the chef wandered over during dessert and spoke to us for 10 minutes about cooking shad and shad roe, at the same time dropping off several complimentary desserts flavored with unique, local ingredients. Overall, this is what dining should be."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 14 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

great concept poor execution

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Erbaluce is trying to be "creative italian" with innovative ingredients and an interesting menu. Unfortunately it fails to deliver. Our appetizer of duck egg, kale and cheese was interesting and tasted well but really felt like we ordered an omelet as an appetizer. I had pork cheeks and they were delicious but the side of raisin compote was too sweet. My friends ordered pasta dishes and both were underwhelming. The rabbit was too mushy and gnocchi tasted bland. The ambiance and service were great though. The place is definitely very romantic and tucked away in this quaint little street in Bay Village. I'd be willing to give them another try but probably won't recommend to friends."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: romantic
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Review 15 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Enjoyed it.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The only issue I have with Erbaluce is that they do not publish a menu online, as they change the menu every day. That's OK, but there would probably be some days I would not want to dine because of the menu. That said, the food was creative and delicious, the service was good and the atmosphere is fine. We will return."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 16 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

TERRIBLE Service

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/22/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Although every single bite was delicious, the TERRIBLE service really changed the experience. After a long wait and 4 trips, she finally got our drink order correct. We had to repeatedly ask for things like water, bread and butter. The cream curdled in the coffee. She was difficult to find between orders . The final straw was when dessert was served and it rolled off the plate. She asked US what to do instead of cleaning up th emess and brining us anew one. We were finished with dessert by the time the coffees arrived--again not together.For and average of $100 per person, I would expect better."
Dined on 5/22/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 17 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

unique, fresh, delicious!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My third time to Erbaluce. This place is always amazing. I can't wait to go back and see what new creations are on the menu. The chef uses fresh, in-season ingredients to create dishes that you cannot find anywhere else in Boston. For a treat - try any pasta. The noodles are homemade, dense, and simply amazing. Anything on the menu is an absolute win. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate without being pretentious. The waitstaff is excellent - very knowledgable and helpful."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 18 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Almost magnificent, but no dice

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food and service were excellent, and the special was the best rabbit I ever had -- so many subtle flavors and seasonings. Unfortunately, the dish was ruined by the over-garlicked, over-salted spinach that accompanied it. I began the main course raving over the rabbit; but midway through I realized I couldn't even taste my meal, the spinach was so overwhelming. Delicate, exquisite food like this deserves better.
I told the server that the spinach was overpowering, and he tastelessly blamed it on the Latino chefs, but he did not offer any remedy. No offer to bring unseasoned spinach, no palate cleanser, no free dessert -- nothing. It's a shame all around, because it was almost a wonderful meal."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 19 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Chef Charles Draghi demonstrates an intimate understanding of how essential flavors work together seamlessly and delightfully. We savored every bite."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 20 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The Erbaluce Experience.

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I really enjoyed the dinner I had the other night. The upstairs seating was excellent, providing an elegant and private atmosphere. The waiter was very knowledgeable and the food tasted amazing. I would recommend it to anyone."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 21 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent centrally locally trendy

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Excellent restaurant if you want to either celebrate an occasion or go to the theatre downtown. It is centrally located and the food is a bit more trendy. All in all a very good choice for a romantic event or a place to be seen. Obviously the food is excellent. The chef seems to be willing to try new recipes."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 22 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of a kind!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"As usual, my meal at erbaluce was outstanding in every respect and completely different from any other restaurant in Boston. My appetizer of shad roe wrapped in speck with fiddle heads and sage gave me a whole new appreciation for shad roe. The rabbit entree was equally outstanding, which complex herbal flavors. Everything at erbaluce tastes delicious, authentic, and unique, without being precious or contrived. This remains my pick for best restaurant in Boston."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 23 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A great little spot - very fresh and interesting combo of ingredients from salads to entrees.. Wine list is expansive and interesting. The fiddlehead salad is outstanding.. The fish choices are paired with interesting sides and the pastas are all worth tasting. Our waiter was outstanding and knowledgable - great guy. And they will accommodate you if you have theater plans too..."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 24 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fabulous little Italian find

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Perfectly located easy walk from my back bay hotel.
Pleasant ambience.
Attentive service
Super yummy food. The crab risotto was a standout... Absolutely amazing:)
"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 25 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Thank you

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We had dinner at Erbaluce to celebrate my wife's birthday. In addition to the food being very good, the staff went out of their way to make my wife feel special without gong over the top. Thank you to the staff of Erbaluce for helping us celebrate!"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 26 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Strongly Recommend

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This was our inaugural visit, and erbaluce did not disappoint. We were seated upon arrival and were waited upon immediately. I'm not going to go into the food all that much, except to say that we were greatly satisfied with both the presentation and the flavor (best rabbit I've had in quite some time!).
We were interested in three courses (salad-pasta-main entree), but didn't want to be gluttonous. They serve the pasta course in half portions, and the kitchen obliged us by cutting that into two one-quarter portions so we had our own plates. Excellent wine recommendation by our waitress, Ann, and service was friendly and prompt by all. Skipped dessert and left completely sated but not overstuffed. Made our 7:30 show easily. We will return!!"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 27 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

A lot to spend on so-so food

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It took 25min. to bring bread, and then only because we asked. While the bus boy was serving bread, the manager (owner?) came up and started instructing him on how he was serving it incorrectly. Public humiliation is not a good teaching tool.
We started with Minestra Of Lobster and native razor clams. The soup was served with croutons already in it, so they were soggy. It lacked character, and the broth was bland. The clams were over or under cooked, and thus chewy.
For main courses, I had lake trout w/horseradish/apple gremolata; my date had nasello (hake) filet w/roasted yellow pepper sauce. Both sauces were rather bland, especially on the nasello.
The Giandjua (dark choc./hazelnut truffle) dessert was the highlight of the meal."
Dined on 5/03/2013
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Review 28 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I'll be back!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Chef Chuck has a skilled and delicate touch. A wonderful meal."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
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Review 29 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our waiter was not very professional and rather impatient at the start.
The decor is rather drap. We were a party of seven, two smaller
tables were put together which is fine but they were uneven and one
in our party had to shift the plates to the side.
The meal was good which saved the evening. However, for the price
point, I think they need some fine tuning.
"
Dined on 5/01/2013
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Review 30 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

For a restaurant with such

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"For a restaurant with such high reputation, I have to admit, I was bit disappointed by their services. Our waiter definitely took time to take our drink and food orders. Also he never once asked us how was the food. Besides from the service, food was great. Our appetizers were excellent and creative (we ordered cuddle fish ink risotto and fried anchovies). One of the main course we ordered - veal and rabbit bolognese was very tasty and I loved its handmade pasta! We also ordered trout dish - which was cooked perfectly but did not have any taste. It'd have been perfect if they had cooked it either with some more salt or even lemon juice. Overall, I was satisfied, but it did not meet my expectation. I'd give another try though."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 31 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Eurbaluce was rated #1 for

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Eurbaluce was rated #1 for Boston italian dining two years in a row for a reason...it is fabulous! So much thought and art goes into each dish and we all benefit from this.
One of my Boston favorites!!
"
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 32 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We loved it and will return!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Erbaluce was recommended to us by our son who lives in the South End. It was a thoroughly well executed dining experience and at an appropriate cost to boot. The service (our waiter) was terrific, and the food was exquisitely prepared. My gnocchi were melt in mouth worthy (as they should be, not chewy as they often are). My eating companions likewise raved about their dishes as well including a couple of the specials offered that night. Overall, an outstanding Boston meal at a Providence price. Highly recommend..."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 33 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent and unusual wine

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent and unusual wine recommendation All food was very, very good with one exception. The fiddleheads were in a sort of hollandaise sauce, but it lacked the lemony tang and the red pepper, while present, did not come through at all. Pricing was very reasonable for the all-around quality of food and service."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 34 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Absolutely LOVED this restaurant!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Absolutely LOVED this restaurant!! 1st time here and we'll definitely be back. Creative dishes, exquisite flavors, impressive Italian wine list. What a gem! Kudos!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic
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Review 35 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This is one of the best restaurants

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is one of the best restaurants in Boston."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 36 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Love, love, love Erbaluce.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Love, love, love Erbaluce. Every part of the meal is market fresh and you can taste the difference."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 37 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Very fresh, healthy take on

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very fresh, healthy take on fine dining. The chef really strives to get local organic ingredients. There's always something new and interesting on the menu. There's no need to order dessert if you just want a small sweet. They provide delicious treats to each guest at the end of your meal. Just order coffee or a drink to enjoy them with."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 38 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Small gem

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always spectacular food - chef is a whiz with pastas and interesting main dishes. His appetizers - usually very seasonal - very imaginative. Consistently, one of the most interesting restaurants in Boston."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 39 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a great meal at Erbaluce,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We had a great meal at Erbaluce, with excellent service. The food was very fresh and flavorful. The staff couldn't have been friendlier or more accomodating. I highly recommend it."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2001
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 40 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Erbaluce was a wonderful fit

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Erbaluce was a wonderful fit for our group of 10. The waitstaff was very knowledgeable about the food and drinks. Knowing that we had a show to attend, they were appropriately mindful of our time. We enjoyed three wonderful courses in a great atmosphere."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 41 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

First class food, excellent

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"First class food, excellent service, will be back soon again."
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 42 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We went to Erbaluche before

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We went to Erbaluche before going to see a Show in the theater district. We let the waitress know and they were able to have the whole meal done and have us out the door on time which is no easy feat. The food was wonderful and the atmosphere was great."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
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Review 43 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Awesome food and service.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Awesome food and service. Our server (Blair?)did a great job, and the timing was perfect. The chef visited the table twice. The owner stopped by at the end of the meal to thank us for our visit. Rarely do I feel inclined to write a review, but this experience was exceptional and the whole staff made us feel special. I will definitely go back and will recommend erbaluce to my friends."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 44 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We selected erbaluce from

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We selected erbaluce from the OpenTable website. We were visiting Boston for one night and wanted something near our hotel that would give us a great restuarant experience. Ebaluce was perfect. It was crowded but we did not feel at all rushed. The food is contemporary Italian. Interesting takes on rabbit, pig cheeks, etc. yet my tagliatelle al ragu was as complex and classic as any I've had in Bologna. I would definitely return."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 45 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

I had heard mixed reviews

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I had heard mixed reviews of the restaurant. Everything I read raved about the food, but anyone I spoke to thought it was alright. I had a tagliatelle bolognese with rabbit and veal. The sauce was watery and tasteless. My girlfriend also had a pasta dish (gnocchi-like) and she was equally unhappy. The one saving grace of the meal was a razor-clam appetizer. It was unbelievable. Services was very professional. A wonderful explanation of the offerings. A very nice touch with complimentary cookies/pastries as we were wrapping up our dinner.
Overall I expected a lot more from a place that is supposed to be one of Boston's best."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2010
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Review 46 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ambiance and service made

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Ambiance and service made this a wonderful meal."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 47 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The dining room is very plain.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The dining room is very plain. We went on a busy saturday night prior to theatre. Arrived at 6:15. At 6 :40, after a glass of wine, we placed our order. A moment later, we pointed out to the waiter that we need to leave at 7 45 to get to the theatre. Shortly thereafter the waiter came back and suggested we change our order to pasta dishes because the meat dishes would take too long. Really? they cant cook a steak in 40 minutes??? he said they were busy. I said its saturday night and you've been open for years.
anyway, I spoke with the manager and they got out food out in a relatively timely manner. The food is fabulous. Every dish expertly prepared, and as tasty as anticipated."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2004
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Review 48 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Erbaluce is my favorite restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Erbaluce is my favorite restaurant in Boston, and has now provided me one of my most memorable meals ever. The ordered the 5 course chef's tasting menu with wine pairing. The food and wine were both superb and the stories told about creating the food and the creation of the wine only added to the experience. Every time I go back to Boston I will be sure to go here. I love this place."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 49 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

true love and respect

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This restaurant shows a true love and respect for their ingredients, food and service. We will be back!"
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 50 for erbaluce
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

This was my second time to

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This was my second time to Erbaluce, and it was an incredible experience, as was the first. The food is wonderful, and the ingredients are so fresh!"
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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