Small Bite: Taking Stock
A Financial District newcomer shows promise despite a shaky start.
Though the Faneuil-bound tourists and native suits may be oblivious, there’s a micro neighborhood on the rise in the Financial District. Namely, Broad Street, where glossy condos have edged into the streetscape, and ground-level niceties (wider sidewalks, better lighting) are on their way. Most notably, the street has added a dining spot that distinguishes itself by being neither corporate pub nor takeout joint—nor, well, Umbria.
Perched at the corner of Broad and Custom House Street, the Vintage Lounge comprises two bars and a dining area dominated by Pottery Barn–style décor. The wine list is long and wallet-friendly, with dozens of options by the glass. The menu is filled with dressed-up standards, such as grilled lamb with an appealing pomegranate couscous. But service missteps—including cold spots in most of our dishes—and some sloppy details, like the open trash can left at the end of the bar, suggest this Vintage needs a little more time to breathe.
72 Broad St., Boston, 617-482-1900, vintageloungeboston.com.