Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Beat Hotel in Harvard Square

Last week, I was invited to attend a blogger dinner at Beat Hotel, which recently opened in Harvard Square. The same folks from The Beehive are behind Beat Hotel, a hippie-inspired music venue and restaurant in the former Tannery space.

My evening started with an American Breed ($11), made with Maker's Mark, St. Elder elderflower liqueur, and apple cider. It was a fantastic fall cocktail - refreshing, yet comforting.

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater

After sipping on our cocktails, we were all seated for dinner. I sat with Richard, Kerrie, and Jil. Beat Hotel invited us to try anything on their regular menu, so we really got a feel for their food and what they offer.

Our dinner kicked off with some standard bread and butter (the bread is from Hi-Rise Bread Company).

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater

For an appetizer, I went with the Crispy Veggies ($11), which were cut and fried to resemble calamari. Well-seasoned and served with two flavorful sauces, this was a much more impressive starter than it looks like.

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater

For the table, we ordered the Raw Bar Platter for four ($80; the option for two people is $40). Now, normally I would never recommend spending $80 for an appetizer, but the Maine oysters on this platter were the freshest oysters I've ever eaten. The plump Gulf shrimp were also fantastic, and the accompanying smoked tuna and fresh salmon tartars were also delicious when smeared on crispy baguette slices.

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater

For my entree, I went with our waiter's recommendation and ordered the Tandoori Spiced Halibut ($34), which was served with red lentils and cucumber raita.

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater

Although it's the most expensive entree on the menu, this plate was beautifully presented and full of flavor. The Indian flavors and spices were spot-on, and the halibut was cooked perfectly - my fork easily cut into its moist, flaky texture. 

For dessert, my table decided to try one of each (I like them). On the dessert menu that day (all desserts are $8): Maple Bread Pudding with Brûlée Banana and vanilla ice cream; Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake with raspberry coulis and salted caramel ice cream; and Apple Strudel Cheesecake with Chantilly whipped cream.

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater
Maple Bread Pudding.

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater
Apple Strudel Cheesecake.

Beat Hotel | The Economical Eater
Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake.

All of the desserts were great, but our favorite as a table was the bread pudding. Moist, gooey, and ideally sweet, it was a fantastic way to end our meal.

A few more things about Beat Hotel that are noteworthy: 
  • Their menu highlights seasonal ingredients and global flavors
  • They have live music every night, and the acoustics are ideal - you can have a conversation without yelling
  • They have wine on tap, and you can order a half glass, full glass, or carafe
  • They have plenty of vegetarian (and even vegan) options

Although the prices are a little more than I'd normally pay, I'd definitely return to Beat Hotel for a date night - or a cocktail and some appetizers, to keep it economical. The vibe there is lovely, the food really blew us away, and the cocktails are inventive and impressive.

Have you been to Beat Hotel yet? If yes, what's your review?

This meal was complimentary, but all opinions are my own.



Beat Hotel on Urbanspoon


10 comments:

  1. I've always loved the vibe and the music at Beehive but sometimes felt the food didn't live up to the promises. From your descriptions and photographs here, I think this new location looks very appealing! I am glad you noted the acoustics being favorable to conversation - I love live music but don't want to be screaming all night.

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    1. Exactly, same here. It's impressive how close the stage is to some of the tables, yet the music's still nice background music vs. blaring in your ears.

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  2. I've been wanting to check out Beat Hotel since opened. Thanks for the great overview and the assurance that they have veggie options!

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  3. That cocktail sounds so good! And I've been wanting to try the St. Elder. Food looks great too!

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  4. I so wish I could have made it to this dinner! That apple strudel cheesecake looks amazing. I've always enjoyed the Beehive, but every single time I go there, the employees are so rude. I'm definitely interested in a new spot with delicious food and good music!

    Sues

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    1. Yeah, a lot of us commented on how much nicer the staff, food, and overall atmosphere is here vs. The Beehive. I think you'll like Beat Hotel a lot more!

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  5. i always loved the beehive. it will be fun to check this place out.

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  6. I checked it out a few weeks ago with friends. We all got wine and tried a few apps. I remember the lamp nachos. We were early, before the music started, but I'd like to go back to check it out.

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    1. Yeah, the music was great! And a few people at my table shared the lamb nachos and loved them!

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  7. I cannot wait to get here! Everything looks fantastic and the space is fabulous!

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