How to do Brunch Like a Pro in Boston

Brunch has become one of the most popular meals served in restaurants throughout the United States, especially on weekends. First off, eating brunch most likely means you missed breakfast. Breakfast is regarded as the most important meal of the day, so one will likely want to go big on brunch after cutting it. Our restaurants here in Boston have precisely what you need to eat brunch like a pro.

Go with a friend or family.

Brunch or any event is best enjoyed with a friend or family. If you’re going to a restaurant for brunch, ask a friend or family member to go with you. You can order different dishes and try each other’s words by bringing the entire family along. You can use this method to know what meals are best for when you next order.

Go to the restaurant hungry.

Brunch doesn’t have to be the heaviest meal of the day, but you should also remember that it combines breakfast and lunch, so it should be substantial. You can have a light snack in the morning if you must, but still, ensure you arrive at the restaurant hungry so you can enjoy the savory meals at our restaurants.

Slowly build up the pace.

Typically, proteins and carbohydrates fill us up fast, so start with something lighter, like fruits or vegetables. The best method is to start with something like an apple, then move to a carbohydrate option such as bread or cereal. Hopefully, you won’t have stuffed up too much, so you can add some proteins like beans or egg dishes.

Keep your etiquette.

There are periods in the year when our restaurants in Boston are overflowing with customers. The worst thing you can do during this period will be to place a complicated order which will slow down the rate at which other customers are attended. You can stop this by making a phone call beforehand or visiting our website to place your order. Remember that all the restaurant attendants are humans like you, and they will appreciate being talked to respectfully. After eating in the restaurant, you can be nice enough to dispose of your tissue paper in the bin on your way out.

Finish off your brunch right.

After finishing your meal in the company of your family or friends, you all must be complete and probably exhausted. Sometimes, you might have even had one or more alcoholic beverages. If this is the case, you can order coffee and some excellent desserts.

The History of Craft Cocktails

Craft cocktails are fun, creative, and entertaining for a 21st birthday event, as much as the retired couple on vacation. Trying something new can excite your evening if you enjoy a good cocktail. The history of craft cocktails may entice you to branch out!

Early Cocktails

The original craft cocktail was used as a medication when Sir Francis Drake, commander of a fleet of English ships, fell ill in Havana in the late 1500s. It was called El Draque and made of lime, sugar, mint, and rum-soaked bark at the time. 

Various punches are said to have been crafted and consumed in the 1600s; the mid-1800s boast the creation of sours alongside whiskey and gin fixes. Despite the presence of these beverages, the credit for the first cocktail is not given to any of these. It wasn’t until the mid-1800s that American Aaron Bird created the modern cocktail. Bird mixed cognac with elixirs to develop what’s known as the Sazerac, which is typically considered the first proper cocktail. 

Prohibition

Despite early successes of craft cocktails, the prohibition era began to attempt to stop alcoholism, corruption, and violence. Although many secret locations still served cocktails and other alcoholic beverages, alcohol was outlawed for over a decade. Although alcohol was allowed once more in the early 1930s, cocktails didn’t gain a lot of popularity until the end of World War 2. 

Some popular prohibition-era cocktails include:

1. Sidecar
2. Old Fashioned
3. Highball
4. Gin Rickey

Cocktail Parties

The fifties began a trend of cocktail parties as a social event. The better the cocktail party, the higher an individual moved on the social ladder. New recipes and authentic craft cocktails became widely known and loved during this time. This was the beginning of an era in its own right. 

Some 1950s cocktails include:

1. Pina Colada
2. Mai Tai
3. Martini
4. Gin Punch

The 1990s and Early 2000s

The 90s and 2000s saw traditional cocktails become exceptionally popular once more. The prohibition-era cocktails were gaining popularity, and new, healthier cocktails were also created. These decades provided cocktail lovers with several new beverages, many of which have remained popular ever since. 

Some popular cocktails during this time include:

1. Bloody Mary
2. Cable Car
3. Cosmopolitan
4. Appletini

Try Some Craft Cocktails!

If this brief history lesson has sparked an interest in craft cocktails, it’s time to visit! Committee in the seaport offers tasty and flavorful craft cocktails – whether you’re a newbie to the beverages or an experienced connoisseur. Have a drink with us!

The Best Wines to Celebrate Valentine’s Day

To have a Valentine’s Day date to remember, knowing the best wines to celebrate can be valuable information. Whether you prefer a red to a white or a glass of sparkling wine, everyone has Valentine’s Day options. Discovering a new wine can be a great way to celebrate this year’s holiday!

Cabernet Sauvignon 

Cabernet Sauvignon, frequently called Cab, is a famous wine worldwide. It is one of the driest red wines and boasts a flavor pallet including cedar, black currant, and blackberry—the full-bodied wine pairs well with red meat, barbeque, and grilled or roasted veggies. 

A Valentine’s Day meal that features rich and smoky flavors would go with Cab.

Pinot Noir

Another everyday and famous red wine is Pinot Noir. While common, the Pinot Noir grape is thin-skinned and challenging to grow. This wine’s flavor is as delicate as the grape itself, as it is lighter in the body. The flavors and aroma typically include red fruits, depending on the region where it is grown. 

Pinot Noir pairs best with lighter flavors, including poultry, fish, and vegetarian meals. Anything overly spicy or robust will prove to be too much for the lightness of this wine. 

Chianti Classico

This Italian favorite hails from Tuscany, where 80% of the wine is made from Sangiovese grapes. It features a cherry, plum, and earthy flavor and is often aged in oak barrels for a woody undertone. The high acidity and medium body create a wine that pairs well with pasta, pizza, and charcuterie appetizers.

If you want to eat Italian this Valentine’s Day, Chianti Classico is a fantastic wine to complete the meal.

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a white wine known for its versatility in style and pairings. It can be crisp or full-bodied, acidic or oaky, and paired with seafood or pork. Chardonnay also works well with creamy dishes. Its citrus and tropical fruit flavors with a buttery undertone create an exciting flavor that many Valentine’s Day dates will appreciate. 

Champagne

If you’re looking to celebrate, champagne is the best wine for you! This sparkling wine is light, crisp, and bubbly. It is used for special occasions and holidays and pairs well with many dishes. For this Valentine’s Day, consider eating oysters, cheese, or crispy fried foods like tempura as you pop a bottle of champagne.

The Best Wines to Pair with Greek Food

If you’re a fan of Greek food and are seeking the perfect wine for your meal, learning about the best wines for pairing can be exciting! While it would be far more adventurous to travel to Greece and determine the best wines for each delicious flavor, not everyone can afford the luxury. Fortunately, you can pair various wines around the world with Greek food. 

Wines to Pair with Tzatziki

If you’ve ever had Greek food, you’ve likely tried tzatziki, a famous and flavorful sauce used in sandwiches or served as a dip with falafel. It is made from cucumber, yogurt, and garlic, presenting a tangy flavor. The sauce’s acidity is best paired with white wine, such as Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.  

Other dry white wines to consider with tzatziki include a Vermentino or Viognier.  

Fava and Wine

When eating fava, various dry white wines would be suitable for pairing. Fava boasts a nutty, sweet flavor that goes well with wines that offer a crisp acidity. The wine must be subtle enough in flavor not to overpower the fava.

The best white wine options to pair with fava are a Gruner Veltliner or Sauvignon Blanc. A dry rosé, such as one from Grenache, could add a nice acidity and fruity profile.

If you prefer red wine, some light-bodied reds also work well with fava. Pinot Noir is one option that will not overpower the flavor of the fava.

Which Wine Pairs with Spanakopita?

The delicious golden pie layered with phyllo dough, spinach, and feta cheese is a popular Greek dish. When pairing it with wine, red zinfandel may be ideal for you if you prefer light reds. Otherwise, many white wines work well with the pie.

When choosing a white wine to go with spanakopita, Pino Grigio or Vermentino are perfect options to taste alongside the tangy flavor of feta cheese. 

Souvlaki Wine Pairings

One of the most famous Greek dishes is souvlaki. Like most Greek dishes, an excellent white wine would pair well with this meaty meal. Consider wines with a decent acidity and nice crispness. The ideal wine would be assyrtiko, a Greek wine. 

A couple of options can pair well if you prefer a red wine with your souvlaki. Shiraz is a great wine to drink if your souvlaki is made with lamb. Shiraz boasts tannins and acidity that go well with the gamey flavor of lamb.

Why Visit?

A visit to Committee is not only delicious but also educational. Learn about wines and how it pairs with your favorite dishes. When you’re ready for a couple of glasses of wine, Committee is the place to be.

Foods To Eat To Start The New Year Right

At the turn of the year, it can feel like you have a brand-new notebook. That’s why people tend to pop the champagne, sing Auld Lang Syne, and watch the ball drop. Another fun way to start the new year right is by eating the right foods. 

The foods to eat to start the New Year right are those that stem from traditional beliefs. Consider eating one of these New Year’s foods and see how your year improves over the last!

Ring Shaped Food Items

Another trip around the sun is like coming full circle. Because of this, people like to eat circular-shaped foods! Bundt cakes, donuts, and onion rings are just a few examples that fit the description. You might also consider bagels or a jello mold. 

Pork Brings Wealth

If you plan to be far wealthier and prosperous in the coming year, you’ll want to consume pork as a main course this New Year’s. Whether you whip up some decadent pork chops or flavorful carnitas, pork should be on the menu. Fortunately, there are many options to prepare pork – you can be creative and develop a fun and yummy course!

Success Comes with Lentils

Double down on your luck by adding some lentils to your meal on New Year’s. Why? Leave lentils in a bowl of water for a while and observe what happens. They soak up water and expand, showing growth. That growth is a symbol of success and prosperity. 

12 Grapes – and Not One Less

Eating grapes is a fun tradition that comes from Spain. In Spain, exactly 12 grapes are consumed per person to symbolize the 12 months in a year. However, it is crucial that those partaking eat their grapes as the clock dings 12. 

Swim Like a Herring into the New Year

Those near the Baltic Sea find that herring is an abundant fish. Because of the copious amounts of fish, residents on the coast attribute herring to bountiful blessings. Eating herring on New Year’s could only mean that you will find yourself having plenty in the coming year. 

What Makes An Authentic Greek Restaurant?

Authentic Greek restaurants must master a few essential elements to transport customers into a breathtaking Mediterranean experience truly. From the atmosphere to the ingredients and techniques used for preparation, authenticity is critical for an unforgettable flavor experience.

Atmosphere

When it comes to atmosphere, you should expect vibrant decor with rustic accents that embody warmth and hospitality. Not only should a restaurant’s atmosphere be inviting, but the food should also be modernized to make it stand out from other places.

Ingredients

Ingredients are of utmost importance in creating an authentic Greek experience; extra virgin olive oil, oregano, garlic, and feta cheese are some of the key components that give classic dishes their bold flavor. With these carefully selected ingredients, you will get that authentic taste of Greece.

Techniques

The techniques used in preparing traditional dishes are another critical factor; look for slow methods such as baking or roasting, which helps bring out more flavor, giving each word a unique taste. Richness in texture and flavor can not be understated, so authentic Greek restaurants must master this element succinctly.

You can tell an excellent greek restaurant when you see it, and the same can be said for taste. When the bite is perfect, the atmosphere is inviting, and the techniques are sharp, you know you’re in for an authentic Greek experience. Authentic Greek restaurants combine these elements seamlessly to create a unique culinary experience. 

Location

Although it is less important than the other three elements, location also creates a truly authentic Greek experience. Ideally, your restaurant should be located near an active body of water like the Aegean Sea or the Mediterranean Sea, helping to create that overwhelming ambiance of the region’s culture and flavors.

Athens is the culinary center for many of these authentic dishes, so look for a restaurant that uses modern techniques and classic ingredients to pay homage to its roots. With all these elements present, you’ll surely get an unforgettable meal!

Reviews

Finally, reviews are a great way to find out what other customers think about a restaurant’s authenticity. Read reviews from past customers and see how they rate the restaurant’s atmosphere, ingredients, techniques, and location. If an overwhelming majority of them had positive experiences, you know it is worth visiting!

Visit Committee in Boston MA 

Suppose you’re looking for an authentic and true-to-culture experience while enjoying delicious classic Greek food. In that case, Committee in the Seaport can assist by providing delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients cooked in traditional methods to ensure each bite offers an unforgettable flavor experience.

Popular Greek Traditions During The Holidays

Celebrations and holiday festivities are always unique in Greece! People gather with friends and family to enjoy traditional Greek customs, food, and culture during the holidays. From decorations to music to unique recipes, Greek families continue their centuries-old traditions year after year – making these events even more memorable. Here are some of the most famous Greek traditions observed during the holidays.

Gift Exchange

During the holiday season, Greeks exchange gifts as tokens of love and appreciation, as many people participate in Secret Santas or White Elephant exchanges. This tradition is rooted in ancient Greek mythology when Zeus gave all Olympians presents on each festival day.

Decorations

Greeks don’t just decorate for Christmas; they also decorate their homes for other holidays like Easter. Painted ornaments, garlands hung from walls, and trees with handmade decorations help make a home feel warm and festive during special occasions. Many Greeks also hang “evil eye” charms around doorways as protection against bad luck entering the house.

Music And Dancing

Formal dances such as Syros (a circle dance) are often performed while singing carols accompanied by bouzoukis (stringed Greek instruments). Other more modern dances, such as Zeïmbekiko, have slowly found their way into holiday celebrations, bringing further joy to these festive occasions!

Traditional Foods And Snacks

There are a plethora of tasty dishes favored by Greeks during the holidays, from roasted chestnuts, traditional lamb stew or kokoretsi (offal wrapped in intestines)to baklava, melomakarona (honey cookies), and diples (pastry dipped in syrup). Whether it’s something sweet or savory, plenty of delicious plates bring joy to dinner tables across Greece!

Raffles And Games Of Chance

In addition to exchanging gifts amongst friends and family members, a raffle system is sometimes used where godparents or relatives give present prizes as lotteries tickets – with one lucky winner taking home all the goods! Gambling games such as blackjack can often be played at celebrations when everything else has been exhausted – adding an extra level of fun to any get-together amongst close companions.

Fun Places to Get Cocktails in Boston MA

Boston’s cocktail scene has exploded in the past decade. It is currently thriving at some of the best mixology hotspots in the city. Whether searching for a strong classic drink, a meticulously constructed cocktail, an internationally-inspired beverage, or a fun alcoholic slushie, you won’t be let down by these top cocktail bar places. There are speakeasies, bars, and trendy hotspots available.

Lacking the desire for a cocktail? You may still go to one of Boston’s countless dive bars, storied Irish bars, or buzzing sports bars for a chill beer or hearty pour of the booze.

Mentioned below are the fun places to get cocktails in Boston, MA: 

Hecate

In recent years, Hecate has been the hottest new cocktail bar in Boston, MA. This underground speakeasy, owned and run by the same group as Krasi, has the best feeling of being in NYC rather than Boston. As you walk in, your eyes gradually adjust to the darkness, and you wonder if anyone else has managed to get a table at the hippest restaurant in town. The waiters, referred to as your “spirit guides,” make chic cocktails in the background.

Committee 

Inspired by the modern-day “ouzeri” found throughout Greece, Committee is the kind of vibrant, welcoming place where the conversation flows, the sharable plates delight and satisfy, and the creative cocktails keep the mood light and fun. Step in and kick back in a gathering place that brings a new spark–and a true taste of Greece–to the Boston waterfront. Get a taste of Greek meze and cocktails in Boston, MA! Call us today at 617.737.5051!

Krasi

Krasi is located in the Back Bay and has a menu of off-the-beaten-path with natural wines from the islands. Krasi tells the lesser-known stories of Greece, which is one way the concept strives to evoke the cultural concept of philoxenia. You will find wines that have never been poured in Boston and a unique bottle of assyrtiko from the producer Gaia, which has been submerged in the Aegean Sea for five years. Visit us today to get started. 

Popular Greek Wines You Should Try This Holiday Season

Greece is an incredibly diverse country that readily offers its tourists a wide range of experiences to satisfy all five senses. Including an aspect of eno-tourism while visiting Greece will be especially beneficial for those who are knowledgeable about and like wine. Wine is a luxury product that has been sold and enjoyed since the dawn of civilization. Greece is a nation that has a long history of winemaking, which allows for a rich viniculture spanning various kinds. 

In particular, here are the top 6 famous Greek wines you should try this holiday season:

Santo Wines (Santorini PDO)

Prices have been rising annually as Santorini wine’s taste gains recognition; some have compared it to white wine. A fantastic value because wine is being consumed quicker than it can be aged. Santorini might disappear soon. Having a floral scent upon opening, the taste is crisp, dry, and refreshing upon opening, blended with just a hint of oak, and leads to an impressively lengthy finish. The nose begins with a fragrant flowery aroma.

Oenops Wines (Apla White13%)

This delicious white wine from northern Greece combines the thirst-quenching minerality in Santorini’s assyrtiko with the fragrant stone fruit more known in the malagouzia grapes. Again, the aroma of herbs adds a savory note, making this wine robust enough to be consumed on its own or paired with a variety of foods like spicy curries, grilled prawns, or salty cheese.

Atlantis Santorini 13%

Due to its dry soil that is rich in volcanic ash, cool nights, and hot days, Santorini is a magnificent island for wine production. This crisp white wine, mainly from assyrtiko grapes grown locally, is excellent at cutting through spicy foods. This is a superb illustration of the renowned minerality you would anticipate, mixed with tingling acidity and a hint of honeyed fruit to provide an outstanding balance.

Lyrarakis ‘Voila’ Assyrtiko 

Even the most significant wine retailer, Majestic, only carries a few Greek wines. Still, these multiple award-winning bottles were able to secure a spot in the lineup. The family-run wineries discovered that the assyrtiko grapes are particularly happy growing in east Crete. On a hot summer day, this tastes best served nice and cold and is incredibly refreshing and bone-dry. With its renowned minerality, crunchy apple aromas, and thirst-quenching acidity, this assyrtiko wine represents exceptional value.

Ktima Vourvoukelis Limnio 

Ancient Limnio grapes make this rich, sumptuous organic red on the Thrace coast of northern Greece. Expect juicy, youthful red fruit, delicious herbal flavors, rosemary, and a hint of black pepper on the finish with this limited-edition wine. Barbecued steak, hard cheeses, and slow-cooked stews go nicely with it.

Kokotos Three Hills Agiorgitiko

Many red Greek wines produced throughout Greece are luxurious and extravagant. Still, this light, crisp style demonstrates that they are more versatile than that. It is mostly made from Nemea’s agiorgitiko grape. It has spent six months in French wood, but it still boasts good acidity and delicate floral flavors. This holiday season, we’ll pair this with grilled meals. 

What To Do in Seaport District Boston

Several of Boston’s top attractions, activities, and seaside vistas may be found in the Seaport District. In this vibrant city district, there is something for everybody to enjoy, from museums and parks to shopping malls and breweries. As there are plenty of options for everyone, we are listing down the best ten attractions of the Seaport District in Boston for you: 

One Seaport

One Seaport is the one-stop shop for everything, whether you need to go on a shopping binge or find an activity for the whole family. In the Seaport District, the mall has the largest concentration of retail space, including everything from shops and eateries to gyms and entertainment facilities.

Boston Children’s Museum

There are also a lot of family-friendly activities nearby. The Boston Children’s Museum is the ideal spot to entertain children while you are away or enjoy a rainy day with them.

City Cruises

The Seaport District is where many trips on Boston Harbor depart from. Several businesses provide dinner date cruises, daytime harbor tours, whale watching, and sometimes even trips to the nearby islands.

The Lawn on D

Explore The Lawn On D for outdoor entertainment, lawn games, meals, drinks, and much more to enjoy the fresh air! The gorgeous swings are ideal for a family photo, and all will enjoy the engaging outdoor space.

Martin’s Park

Allow the children to get some exercise at Martin’s Park. The park welcomes youngsters of all ages and skills to play together and enjoy the outdoors. The Boston Children’s Museum is conveniently placed just next to it.

The Institute of Contemporary Art

There is a thriving art culture in the Boston Seaport District as well. It would help if you caught the new contemporary shows at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Each Thursday from 5 to 9 PM, everyone is welcome to attend the ICA for free.

Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

History lovers will appreciate an exciting and dramatic recreation of this important American event. Thanks to actors performing, interactive exhibitions, and scale replicas of sailing ships from the eighteenth century, you will never forget the encounter.

Fan Pier

Take a walk along Fan Pier to enjoy the sights of the lake. It is a prime waterfront location on the East Coast and an example of external architectural beauty.

Waterfront Restaurants

One must recognize the numerous waterfront eateries, all worthwhile visits. You may enjoy everything here, from the finest seafood, Greek favorites, and delicious Italian specialties in the Seaport District. Visit Committee in Boston, MA, after a long day exploring.