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The Boarding House Reviews List

The Boarding House

Welcome! The Boarding House opened December 2012 and is led by Proprietor and Master Sommelier Alpana Singh. Our historic building, which dates back to 1872, features several distinct areas that include an intimate, sophisticated late night cellar lounge, a bustling bar area, private dining space, and a comfortable dining room located on the building’s third floor.

Alpana and Advanced Sommelier, Dan Pilkey, have curated a thoughtful list of 500 wines from around the world that will expertly complement your dining experience. Guests will be immediately enveloped by our ambient dining room, which is designed for everyday dining with service that is detailed, hospitable and personal.

Our first floor wine bar is available without reservations and seating is per availability.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Boarding House!
See more The Boarding House details
584 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4 / 5
(584 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 584 reviews
5 stars
(214)
4 stars
(217)
3 stars
(107)
2 stars
(41)
1 star
(5)
Food 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4.5 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.5 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • notable wine list(389)
  • fit for foodies(360)
  • hot spot(301)
  • special occasion(279)
  • vibrant bar scene(277)
  • romantic(180)
The Boarding House Reviews List
Review 1 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

great for dining or drinks

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
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
"good food, great for sharing, beautiful decor, and good wine & cocktail list."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 2 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent service and wonderful menu. Food was fun and over the top. Wait staff well trained and knows their wine pairings. Wonderful ambience. Love the décor. Has a great vibe. Terrific dining experience for any occasion and all size groups. Would recommend to anyone. Will become a favorite."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 3 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Rather disappointing

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The appentizers were excellent and wine great -- but the meal went downhill after that. The vegetarian entree was ordinary, but good -- something I would fix for myself at home; the carrot cake was quite disappointing. The restaurant vibe is good and the shabby chic decor pleasant"
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 4 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
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
"solid experience all around...a tad bit expensive. Waiter for sure tried to push wines out of my league."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 5 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Phenomenal!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The Boarding House was phenomenal from the moment we ascended the entry stairs to the moment we got back in a cab. The decor and ambiance is stunning. Playful, yet refined - nice for a girls' night out, business meeting, or romantic date night.
The menu is focused and well-composed. My table started with a delicious cheese & charcuterie plate and then had the scallops, pork, and cod. All were layered, balanced, and delicious; but the pork belly on the pork dish was heavenly. Although we were all pretty full, we decided to try dessert. They are worth trying to save room for. The Scotch Pudding was amazing.
The wine list was a wine geek's dream. Very fair prices, great variety/depth, and a unique layout. Lovely by-the-glass options, too.
"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, scenic view, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 6 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Very pretty place, but the foods not up to par with the prices and atmosphere. The food and service need work before I would recommend."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 7 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I have been to Boarding House now 4 times. The first three times I really enjoyed the menu and the décor and kept bringing different people back to introduce them to it. The service was never extraordinary but the food made up for it. This time, they changed the menu and the service was even worse. Besides taking some of my favorites off the menu, our waitress was barely there (took her 10 minutes just to say hi to us) and our food took forever. We waited for 40 minutes in between the appetizers and entrees (with no apologies from the staff). I have been to countless nice restaurants where they space out the meal, but this was just ridiculous. There are too many incredible restaurants in the city for me to go back to The Boarding House."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view
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Review 8 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Stuffy, very limited menu, tables very close together so you feel like you have no privacy. Too many other places to try before going back to this one."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 9 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Everything was perfect. New neighborhood favorite. Can't wait to find something to celebrate soon & go back!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 10 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Beautiful restaurant

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Being fans of "Check Please," we looked forward to dining at Ms Singh's signature restaurant. It was difficult to get a reservation between 7-9 pm on a Saturday, so we agreed to dine at 6 pm. The service was very good. The wine list impressive. The menu was a bit limited however. We ordered the chicken liver pate, grilled shrimp, and steak tartare appetizers to share: some of the best we have had anywhere. The entrees were uneven: the scallops were excellent, the chicken and the lamb was good but not outstanding. Overall, a wonderful place for a gathering, but not ideal for a gastronomic rendezvous."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 11 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wonderful dinner!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My husband and I got a last minute reservation on Open Table and are so glad we did! We had a great table on the top level overlooking the 3rd floor dining room. The service was attentive and very friendly. We had a wonderful meal and will definitely be back!"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 12 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food and service were both very good, but I felt the pricing a bit high and the seating arrangements lacking in privacy."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 13 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"If you are looking for great food, I DO NOT recommend The Boarding House. Too bad their food is not up to par with their decor."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: hot spot
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Review 14 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was our first time at the Boarding House. Unfortunately, I was on medication & couldn't enjoy the great wine list. But my spouse & I had a great meal. He had the roasted chicken thighswith green garlic pesto and I had the lentils with roasted cauliflower and harissa. The lentils were perfectly cooked and the roasted cauliflower had a rich flavor. The spiciness of the harissa was a great addition to the dish. We shared the lemon cheesecake for dessert which was served with amazing lemonade gelees. We're looking forward to our next visit."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 15 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"An uninspired menu but not with prices to match."
Dined on 5/09/2013
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Review 16 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Too Few Choices

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was our second visit. The space is beautiful but the food choices are very few. The first visit I had salmon which was delicious. I planned on having it again but the menu had changed. It changes often so nothing stays on it. My salad and pasta were very good but my husband didn't care for his fish. Bread is nothing special. With so few food choices we won't return. Too many other places where we can return for items we love."
Dined on 5/08/2013
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Review 17 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good food, bad service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had been looking forward to trying out the Boarding House dining room for awhile. The evening started off great with the friendly bartender on the main level. Then we went upstairs to the beautiful dining room and were greeted at our table by a waitress who clearly does not want to be working there, or maybe she just doesn't like people! She was irritated if we asked a question, walked away when we started ordering and then changed our minds about a dish and then she clearly knew nothing about the wine list. This was not as enjoyable as it should have been."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 18 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fantastic

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"A beautiful, unique space with great food & service. Great job Alpana!"
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 19 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good Food, Great Ambience/Decor

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was really good. Not terribly expensive. I was probably more wowed by the decor of this place. Gorgeous building, and decorated beautifully."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 20 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The space itself is worth a visit. Most of the food was fantastic with one or two exceptions. I highly recommend the scallops - possibly one of the best scallop dishes i've had. The flavors of the duck were excellent but the meat was a bit tough. All the apps were great. My fave was the prawns. It will be a great place to bring visitors this summer!"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 21 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"While the ambiance and vibe of the restaurant were great, the menu has only a handful of entree options and very specific appetizers, none of which I cared for."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 22 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was our second trip to this restaurant.
I was disappointed with themenu change.
Also the food and service were not up to par with my first visit.
Truthfully I was disappointed.
"
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list
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Review 23 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Interesting decor...simple & tasty

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
"The decor here is interesting and strange - the bar ceiling is covered with hanging wine glasses. On the second floor unlabeled wine bottles hang from the ceiling and 1930's looking dining table chairs fill the room.
Beef tartare with crostini – beef was fresh and mixed with a bit of anchovy, crostini were thin and crisp. It was topped with little cornichons. The panzanella salad with shaved fennel and hazelnuts was very crisp - the bread chunks were a bit too large. The jamon serrano with grilled radicchio was delicious.
Berkshire pork loin and belly were amazing - tender with and the belly was crisp on the top. The scallop entree was probably the best dish with pancetta and mushrooms.
All in all it was good but a tad overpriced...."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 24 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I found the menu limited & ended up with chicken thighs. There is a lot of seafood & I don't eat it. My soup was just okay because the broth was so strong; the hen of the woods mushroom was interesting. My husband's steak was what could be expected. Considering who the owner is the wine should have been exceptional, and it was not. Nothing was extraordinary. I probably would not return."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, scenic view, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 25 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good, not great

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wine was fantastic. Dining Room was packed and had a great atmosphere. The bar was packed and seemed very cool as we passed through. Main course was okay, had the pork, two pieces, one was fatty the other was chewy. Not happy with that. Dessert was great, had the lemon cheese cake, excellent. Server was very good, though it took longer to get our dessert than it did for our main course. It's a hopping place and the clientele obviously has money to burn, which shows that our economy is doing just fine. Would come back, but like just hang out in the bar."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 26 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Spot!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
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
"Very accomodating. Friendly, energetic, proud staff. Great food and wine list. A little pricey for some but you are also paying for the experience, which was a lovely one."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 27 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
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
"my husband and i went to the boarding house around 5 on a friday and the restaurant was just getting going. the bar is very nice with plenty of room to relax and just enjoy the afternoon-we had a nice drink and then upstairs for dinner. the waiter was very pleasant and the room was big and beautiful. we order an appetizer and then had a soup and our main course-the size of meals are small so order more if you like to eat alot of food. i had the scallops which were wonderful and my husband had the chicken thighs-we ended with the chocolate bomb for dessert-i found the marshmellow wonderful and i dont really like them. we had a very pleasant time and would go back."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, romantic, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 28 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good But Not Great

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Upstairs dining room is gorgeous with nice energetic vibe, and with Ms. Singh's hand the wine selections really stand out. But the menu is strictly middle of the fairway fare. Entrees are familiar refrain of fish, pork, steak. How about just one or two dishes off the beaten path?
I opted for 3 appetizers because they were more interesting than the entrees - kampachi krudo, steak tartare, and sauteed prawns. All had great main ingredient that was overpowered by other elements of the dish - fresh tarragon leaves overwhelm buttery kampachi, creamy dressing on tartare ensured that you can't taste raw beef, and delicate prawns were wasted in heavy spices (but kudos for serving them with head and tail).
So it was good, but why not be great?"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
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Review 29 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Beautiful setting and lovely food

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The decor at Boarding House is really amazing. It adds to the overall experience. The food was delightful and it was so nice to get an appetizer and an entree, instead of the small plate craze that has the obsession of the food industry for too long now. The food flavors were bright and fresh. It was a great dining experience. Wines by the glass were a tad expensive but the bottle prices seemed better."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 30 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Spectacular Dinner!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our 3rd wedding anniversary dinner was memorable. Great staff very friendly. The bartenders can make a good Mezcal Mule. Taking the elevator to the dining room was a nice touch. I asked for a quiet secluded table for two and they delivered. Their loft area is very private and you overlook the dining room. We started with fresh oysters in a half shell, then had their Kampachi Crudo with subtle hints of ginger, grapefruit and anise. I had the medium rare Boston Cut NY Strip (grass feed) 8oz medallion cut on a bed of puree potato, sliced fingerlings and ribboned carrots. My wife had the amazing entree of Seared Scallops in a bed of pancetta, peas and hen of the woods(mushroom). We finished with their chocolatey S'mores Bombe dessert. Amazing."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 31 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A great experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was excellent, the inside decor was cool and the service was top notch.
My only complaint would be that it was a little higher priced than comparable restaurants.
"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 32 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Superior Service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"If you are heading here for dinner make sure to go a little early so you can grab a drink downstairs (preferably in the window). Great cocktails, and really cool vibe.My husband and I had made a note when making the reservation that we were celebrating my Birthday. Both the hostess and our waiter made sure to say Happy Birthday. We ordered a bottle of wine and our server mentioned it would take a little while because they had to bring it up from the cellar. It probably only took 10 minutes but our waiter still brought over Champagne on the house to apologize for the wait. NOW THAT IS SERVICE! The whole meal from appetizers to entrees to dessert was delicious! I will definitely be back."
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 33 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

I was very disappointed, with

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I was very disappointed, with the quality and presentation of food,we were three and ordered 6 items,one being beef carppacio
but end up being more like beef tartar, that looked like dog food,
sorry but that's the best way to describe it, not even one dish was good,I feel that if the chef or menu will not change,
there is really no reason to go back, room was nice and the wine was good, but that you can get in many other places, from a food critique I expected much more, interesting bread on the table, not just simple plan cold baguette,the food luck presentation and taste, it was a waist of money,I hope the owner see this and change things, otherwise she will very quickly run out of those that come because they are curious,
"
Dined on 04/29/2013
 2011
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Review 34 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Our experience began in the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our experience began in the bar with well crafted cocktails and a great ambience. The decor is truly unique as you find yourself glancing at the next detail, yet undistractedly. The menu is focused and each item we enjoyed was slightly undersold with description and a surprise on the palate. The wine list is comprehensive and well selected, as would be expected, and our server was highly versed in the details of the various varietals and vintages. Overall, it was a very enjoyable experience and we plan to recommend the restaurant and plan to visit the Cellar next time."
Dined on 04/28/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 35 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Liked it - did not like that

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Liked it - did not like that we couldn't add on one person to our reservation *requested this the day before - the dining room did not seem full while we were there. I found my entree to be meat heavy - would have liked more fresh veggies with it, did not need such a large protein portion but it was really delicious."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
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Review 36 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Customer service was horrible

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
"Customer service was horrible and reservations weren't honored towards the true time plus menu didn't have a wow factor."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, hot spot
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Review 37 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My husband and I had a very

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My husband and I had a very enjoyable dinner at The Boarding House the other night. The wine was absolute perfection and the waitstaff very attentive, without being overbearing. Our food was very good, and as my husband said, the presentation stood out. The atmosphere is amazing, love the huge windows overlooking Wells St. We were there on a Saturday night, and although we made the reservation months in advance, we didn't find it too chaotic--there was a nice energy."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
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Review 38 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

What a disappointment

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The space was terrific, the food OK but the attitude of the staff was horrible. I don't need to go to a restaurant and spend lots of money to receive attitude and non-friendly service from the staff. The host at the front door was arrogant, pretentious and treated me like he was doing me a great service by letting me eat at this restaurant. Then when I went upstairs to be seated, I was treated the same by the hostess up there. Thank goodness for the waiter, who was terrific. He salvaged what would have been a disastrous night otherwise. I will never go back or recommend it."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2013
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Review 39 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Beautiful restaurant. Food

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Beautiful restaurant. Food and service was fantastic. Can't wait till the sidewalk seats are available, will be a great summer spot"
Dined on 04/28/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 40 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Nice place. Overall, good

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Nice place. Overall, good experience but found the menu a bit pretentious. Difficult to order when the waiter has to explain 90% of the menu. Don't think I'll put it on my "have to return" list, but it was good."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 41 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Loved everything about this

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Loved everything about this new gem! Great food, great ambiance, and what unique decor. We had a great time and would recommend this place to everyone looking for a great night out."
Dined on 04/26/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 42 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The menu is safe and not very

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The menu is safe and not very innovative, but the food was consistently good. The only vegetarian entree was not very appetizing-looking and definitely that part of the menu needs work. I normally eat no meat or fish but ordered salmon because someone at the next table had the only veggie entree and she left most of it on her plate. I took note of that.....and ordered accordingly......
Waitstaff was very good: knowledgeable, friendly, attentive without being overbearing or intrusive. Excellent job there.
Wine list is very good: good range of prices, regions and varieties. All the wines we tried were excellent and paired well with our food. They were recommended by our waitperson.
Decor is lovely and fits the Boarding House theme.
"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 43 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

un-paralleled menu; spotty staff

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The ratings used in this review were based on two different dining experiences in the same week...I could not have been more impressed with the quality and depth of the entire menu; wonderful farm-fresh offerings, excellent wine parings, etc. The piece which baffles me is the arrogance of the service staff, from hostess to table servers. No one seems to care much which means I likely won't care to recommend the amazing food! Get over yourself and get to making my experience meaningful."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2004
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 44 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Fit for a fantastic evening!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The Boarding House was fabulous. The staff was so courteous. The bartender who served the first cocktail to me while waiting for my friend was down to earth and knew his stuff! He explained the collection of glass wear on the ceiling and had some fun small talk while I waited. The hostess who sat us on the 2nd floor was a bit "robot" like but otherwise professional. Our server was accommodating and knowledgeable, very nice. The short rib entree melted in your mouth. So pleased with that dish. My friend had the salmon - perfectly cooked to her request. The De Cero Malbec 2011 was heavenly! A fantastic new addition to the foodie/wine restaurant scene! I would definitely bring others her for dinner and even for happy hour at the bar."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 45 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Decor Distracts from Mediocre Menu

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Perhaps the "buzz" around The Boarding House set my expectations too high, but I was a bit underwhelmed by the menu and service. I'd return for the ambiance and drinks/appetizers, but recommend going somewhere else for an actual dinner since the food was fairly standard and didn't really leave an impression.
It's probably a good place to go on a date or with a group of folks with differing tastes because the vibe and decor are interesting and the food is safe."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list
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Review 46 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

WOW WOW WOW

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I loved everything about this restaurant from the time you entered into the restaurant and to the dinning area ,and to the celler .WOW WOW WOW The selection of wine FAB!!!!!!!"
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 47 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Nothing out of the ordinary

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Beautiful room but nothing interesting or different than any other Chicago restaurant!"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2008
Special Features: notable wine list
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Review 48 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My husband and I enjoyed the

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My husband and I enjoyed the restaurant very much, however they need to have non-alcholic beer at the bar and available. My husband does not drink alcohol and enjoys a non-alcoholic beer with his meal. All restaurants we go to serve it and The Boarding House is too new and too hip not to offer it."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 49 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We thoroughly enjoyed our

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We thoroughly enjoyed our evening at Boarding House. The bar downstairs and restaurant upstairs are warm and inviting. The bar area is huge and was comfortably packed. Food was interesting and delicious. Veggies and salads were great. Service was friendly and not overly intrusive. Wine was good and waiters knew what to suggest. Boarding House is a good, fun evening. Joy, Chicago"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 50 for The Boarding House
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I think menu needs some simple

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I think menu needs some simple kinds of food and preparations- too eclectic"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2006
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