Apart from the usual small family-run eateries that offer premium cuts of meat on specific evenings, stumbling upon a steakhouse in the outskirts that provides a sophisticated dining experience every day of the week is truly a delight.
Smith & Wollensky accomplishes just that.
Back in 1977, Smith & Wollensky established its reputation when it launched in New York. Since then, it has evolved into one of the most renowned and cherished steakhouses with ten branches across the globe.
Their latest addition in Burlington, Mass. opened its doors in June featuring two floors for dining. This marks their third restaurant in Massachusetts, with the other two situated in Boston’s Atlantic Wharf and Wellesley’s Church Square.
The interior of the fresh Burlington location captures the same familiar ambiance as its siblings. The distinctive green and white tiles are prominent, along with gleaming brass fittings and luxurious woods, delivering a contemporary twist to a traditional steakhouse. Smith & Wollensky stands out as the only national steakhouse brand that ages and carves all its steaks on-site.
Whether you fancy a private dinner indoors or prefer the outdoors for dining al fresco, there are various seating options available. During our recent visit to the new Burlington location, we were seated indoors at a cozy booth on the main level. The first floor boasts a large horseshoe-shaped bar as the centerpiece, while the second floor impresses with its indoor/outdoor bar.
We were warmly welcomed by our server who served us rolls and butter to kick start our dining experience before we ordered our cocktails. We chose a meticulously crafted martini and one of their signature beverages – the Smoked Pineapple, a delightful blend of Bribon Blanco Tequila, Peloton Mezcal, Licor 43, lime juice, and pineapple juice.
Continuing our culinary journey, we tried some freshly caught local oysters from Plymouth and five jumbo, and when we say enormous, shrimp cocktail served with a zesty horseradish cocktail sauce.
Being at a steakhouse, do not miss out on the roast beef popover topped with caramelized onions and mushrooms, melted cheddar, and a delectable brandy peppercorn sauce. As for the main courses, the coffee-crusted filet mignon was a highlight. Other traditional selections include a veal chop, Cajun-marinated, USDA Prime dry-aged, bone-in ribeye; Wagyu New York strip; and a 42-ounce dry-aged porterhouse for two.
We were recommended to experience their opulent Caviar & Bubbles menu. The sophisticated offer included Royal Siberian Sturgeon served with egg white and yolk, crispy capers, shallots, parsley, crème fraiche, and blinis. Pair it with a glass of champagne or a bottle of Louis Roederer Cristal for the ultimate lavish experience and create long-lasting memories.
Since you are at a steakhouse, be sure to try the roast beef popover topped with caramelized onions and mushrooms, melted cheddar, and a delicious brandy peppercorn sauce. For main events, the coffee-crusted filet mignon was a standout. Other classic cuts include a veal chop; Cajun-marinated, USDA Prime dry-aged, bone-in ribeye; Wagyu New York strip; and a 42-ounce dry-aged porterhouse for two.
Enhancements for steaks range from béarnaise and hollandaise sauces to a lobster tail and roasted bone marrow. The menu is provided a la carte, ensuring you complement your meal with sides like sautéed mushrooms (our personal favorite), creamed spinach, truffled mac and cheese, creamy corn Manchego, or their renowned Hasselback potatoes with sour cream, crispy prosciutto, and gremolata.
Conclude your dining experience with an exquisite sampling of their “gigantic” chocolate cake.
Ten layers are “brushed” with Bailey’s Irish Cream then layered with chocolate mousse and topped off with a rich ganache. Trust us when we say it’s worth every overindulgent calorie.
Smith & Wollensky can be found at 92 Middlesex Turnpike in Burlington, Mass.
