Written by Christine Fennelly
With yet another dining hotspot open in South Boston, the culinary scene in the neighborhood is becoming an embarrassment of riches.
Located at 28 West Broadway, The Maiden opened just before the holidays last month in the spot that used to house Owl Station. With sushi and extensive raw bar offerings on the menu, (the Wellfleet oysters were decidedly sweet and as clean as can be – kudos to their raw chef) you won’t find nachos and wings or 75 inch flat screen TV’s, which is quite lovely, thank you very much.
Owned by South Boston residents Esti and Drew Parsons, as well as Drew’s brother Jon, The Maiden brings an eclectic edge to the restaurant options in 02127. Eleven different types of cheese are offered hailing from France, Italy, England, the Netherlands, Switzerland and good ‘ol Massachusetts. Select three for just $24.00, served with accoutrements. We sampled the Mimolette from France, a semi-hard cheese with buttery, salty undertones and served with an apricot jam – it was delightful and a cheese I’ve never tried.
But did I mention the charcuterie selection? So, The Maiden might not be the spot for vegans. It is definitely the spot for meat and cheese lovers. The Maiden offers a wide and distinct selection of salumi (from New England Charcuterie in Waltham, MA) and cured meats from Spain, Iowa, and North Carolina. Chorizo, porcini, speck, country ham and genoa salami – just a few of the 12 meat selections.
Meats and cheeses not your thing? Fret not – appetizers including seasonal greens, crab and squash crostini and a fantastic “power salad” made with farro, toasted kasha, red and yellow beets, sunflower seed, kale and sweet potato served with a homemade ricotta was delicious and flavorful and filling.
Finally, a burger adorns the entree menu as well as a honey brined chicken, a gnocchi dish and pork chops. Wine, beer and cordials are available with prosecco by the glass and a Bloody Mary made with tequila that brings a smoky, rich flavor to the standard brunch libation.
Go check out The Maiden for drinks and some oysters, support a new local business owned by Southie residents and celebrate the richness of our ever changing neighborhood.
