Summer weather calls for patio dining, cold cocktails, and lots of seafood. Coastal living is at its best this time of year, and Boston chefs are certainly doing a good job showcasing the bounty of our beautiful seas.
From the first time I heard about Select Oyster Bar, I couldn’t wait to try it. I absolutely loved Neptune Oyster when Chef Serpa was there (worst photos in a blog post EVER) and attended a delicious Backyard Farms event where he made an amazing lobster Caprese. When two of my favorite ladies and I decided to get together for dinner, Select was at the top of our list.
We got a coveted seat on their small patio behind the restaurant and tucked into the menus, definitely having a difficult time not choosing everything. We started with a round of cocktails, mine, a classic and refreshing Hemingway Daiquiri.
We proceeded to share a bunch of plates, each of which surprised and delighted us with unique flavors and freshness.
Salmon Crudo with Pistachio Oil and Lime was tender and tart, nice and light for a warm summery evening.
The dressed lobster let the Maine lobster be the star of the show, with hints of lemon and herbs, a simple, luxurious dish.
We had to have oysters at Select Oyster Bar, and we chose a selection of mostly East Coast oysters with three Kumamoto oysters thrown in for balance. Wellfleet and Island Creek oysters proved once again to be my favorite, briny, slightly creamy, the taste of summer.
The octopus was a standout for me. I love grilled octopus, and this was perfection.
We were all really excited about the squid special, but it was the least favorite item of the night. It was still good, but not something we would order again, given the selection.
Flash Seared Hamachi was another favorite. Its meatiness paired well with lime slaw and whipped avocado.
Select has a great wine list with interesting and affordable choices by the glass and bottle. We toasted with a bottle of Mercat Cava, which was great with all of the seafood dishes and fun for a Thursday night celebrating nice weather and friends.
I would return to Select Oyster Bar again and again, for oysters and cocktails and to try all of the menu items that we missed. It’s a great addition to the Boston dining scene.
