The Spotted Apron, which opened this fall on Cambridge Street near Mass General, bills itself as an independent neighborhood spot with a retro sensibility and a made-from-scratch ethos. And it mostly delivers—if at a cost. Though the panini are warm, chewy, and perfectly crisp on the outside, they’re awfully small for nearly $7. Meanwhile, the red velvet cupcakes are $3.35 a pop (and disappointingly dense and dry).
Still, its sandwiches are served on homemade breads, its pastries are handcrafted and baked daily, and the menu features items that we’d love to see more places offer, such as empanadas and brioche-wrapped hot dogs. Now, if the Spotted Apron could just swap its cafeteria-style tables and bad lounge music for cozy chairs and warm lighting that better match the homespun vibe, it might grow into a very sweet spot, indeed.
326 Cambridge St., Boston, 617-624-9700, thespottedapron.com. $
