“I love fine dining, but nowadays there are a lot of places that market themselves as "fine dining" yet serve mediocre, expensive small plates. I am happy to say that Nightshade Noodle Bar is not one of those places and instead truly deserves the title. We had to make a reservation a month in advance, and it was well worth the wait.There are 7, 9, 12, 14, and 21 course options. 7-14 will supposedly fill you the same (the only difference is that you'll get to try more things in smaller portions), and 21 requires more preparation. We originally planned on 7 but decided on 9 after being enticed by the menu. This was the right call, as we were satisfied after 9 plates. You also get to request two dishes specifically.In order of most to least favorite (though, we enjoyed everything):- Marblehead urchin brûlée: There were good-sized chunks of uni, and the hollandaise was so creamy and buttery, which was balanced by the saltiness of the torched cinnamon.- Grilled coconut sticky rice pops: The presentation worked well, as the stick made it easy to dip and eat. The sticky rice was more like sushi or risotto rice, which was a nice variation from typical sticky rice. It was also /just/ sticky enough that it didn't get annoyingly stuck to your teeth afterward. The pork floss was fluffy and salty, and the coconut was lightly sweetened.- Crispy black cod: The outside of the cod was indeed crispy, but the inside melted in your mouth like wagyu. For my Viet folks, the sauce is nước màu, which is quite salty, so I think having some rice would have made this amazing dish even better.- Chilled Portuguese percebes: The taste was not bad (has a sweet ocean taste and the texture is like a lobster-clam mashup), but we enjoyed this dish more so for its unique experience, as we don't know where else we would ever get to try percebes, and it was fun de-shelling.- Claypot caramel foie gras: The foie gras had a nice bite on the outside but melted like the cod. Because the sauce tasted the same as that of the cod, we almost wish we got to try something else instead. Nevertheless, it was good.- Nightshade caviar service: The eggspuma dip was light, airy, and the perfect first dish to prep the palate. The caviar made the dish feel more luxurious, but tbh, the chips tasted fine with just the dip. In contrast to the luxurious caviar, the chips tasted like Lay's. Something that tasted more homemade or perhaps something slightly more elevated like bread would have made this dish better.- Dungeness crab: This dish had mixed reactions, but I liked it. The flavors were reminiscent of phở, and then you would get a truffle aftertaste. This dish could be a miss for you if you aren't able to dissociate the noodles from the famous soup dish that they are typically served in (phở). I just wish there were larger chunks of crab, as I was searching for that with every bite.- Salted chocolate mousse: Rich, thick, and salty. A dollop of whipped cream would have been a nice addition.- Kabocha squash bột chiên: Better than expected but the least memorable imo. It kind of tasted like tempura. I liked the sweet squash.We also tried a few drinks, which were all very good. I recommend the coconut margarita.The food alone was already a 5/5 for me, but we got exceptional service on top of that, especially from our bartender, Shayne (if anyone from the staff can reach out to me with her email, I'd love to send over the picture we took!).This is a place I would happily come back to, and I love that they keep track of what you order each time to cater a different experience on subsequent visits. Thank you, Nightshade Noodle Bar!Dietary restrictions: Items are served raw or undercooked or may contain raw or undercooked ingredients. The server should be informed beforehand if anyone in the party has a food allergy.Kid-friendliness: Not a good place for kids“
“One of my favorite places in all of Boston. I've literally had dreams about their Tom Yum soup (although I haven't had anything else on the menu I didn't love, the Tom Yum is just next level). The appetizers are all delicious and the flan for dessert is a must!“
“Overall rating: 4 Stars A solid banh mi spot but not the top PRO TIP: ONLY BANH MI SPOT I'VE FOUND SO FAR THAT DOES TOFU/VEGAN BANH MIFood: banh mi, baos, eggrolls, and vietnamese coffeeTexture: banh mi, the baguettes were fresh and crispy the pickled vegetables gave a nice crunch as well! Pricing: the banh mi here are on the steeper side going for $9 but it's probably due to being in the middle of Boston! A vietnamese coffee is $6Ambiance: The ambiance is unique, it's a mixture of a bunch of refurbished decor my friends and I find it funny when we see the American/pirate tablesSeating & Parking: 2 seats by the wall facing the banh mi counter and 4 seats to the left by the window, there is no parkingService: straight forward, may have a language barrier but the ladies there are kindMusic: noneBathroom: noneFinal comments: solid banh mi spot for lunch, fast service“
“The food there is amazing. I especially and preferential to their bread section. They have so many varieties and all are good for either a breakfast, lunch or even an afternoon snack. The place is small so you have to be sure not to accidently bump into anyone. Its a really cozy shop but I love the ambiance. And the price for the amount of food you get is actually not had you can get a full meal for a decent price and still have leftovers.“
“A peaceful little spot in the middle of the busy city. Got my blood drawn (not here) and came here seeking solace.Devin smiled at me like an old friend who knows a secret. He made me a crepe and coffee and brought it to my table with a wise smile.The is this heaven crepe. Tastes like something I ate as a child. I don’t remember what it was, I just remember the joy it made me feel and the feeling my parents might get divorced soon.The plate was beautifully put together. I ate it like a ravenous stray dog. I feel my blood being restored. May only kindness walk through you door.Great place for a date.Kid-friendliness: Very annoying crying baby, nobody complained ?“
“Awesome owner making delicious and well priced food. They have a very expansive Banh Mi menu and lots of other goodies to go. Definitely gives Ba Le a run for their money for best Banh Mi in Dorchester, if not all of Boston.They also offer some Latin Vietnamese infusion sandwiches and plates which is unique.Highly reccomend to the Banh Mi enthusiast.“
“Great tasting food, large servings, and not pricey at all. We went for dinner at the take out business, and it was crazy busy. Food still came quickly and was hot and made in front of your eyes with fresh ingredients. The spicy dishes still had tons of great flavors, too. For sure a place I will come back “
“Seriously so good! You can’t beat the price, freshness of the ingredients, kindness of the folks there. Centrally located in Melrose and easy to grab and go or have a seat and enjoy their peaceful interior. Situated right near the melrose commuter rail. Yum! I switch between the pad Thai, Tom yum noodle soup any of the curry dishes, pineapple fried rice or the drunken noodles. Try it ! You won’t be disappointed.“
“The menu will bring back memories. Of Asian night markets .with an eclectic atmosphere.. or a road side cafe !!Which if you have been to Asia some will blow your palate to another world of flavor !I was lucky to stumble upon this gem!Service was some of the best I have seen in years .With informative staff .I was lost in memory with the drucken noddle with chicken .. with a fried egg .I did take out but I highly recommend afternoon tea and snacks or Cocktails with your evening meal!If I worked this area more frequently I would become a regular!Thank you for feeding my soul today !And as person who’s First trade was culinary.I am pretty picky .cause food is to nourish ,share and experience. With other beings !“
“I come here all the time since I’m a student at BU and they never disappoint. I usually get the pho (which is so delicious) but am excited to try more authentic Vietnamese dishes! Their lemongrass shrimp vermicelli and shrimp toast and shrimp salad are also so “
“If you get the chance to swing by Cicada Coffee Bar in Central Sq. Cambridge, don't miss out on their delicious Vietnamese-inspired coffee drinks and food. The place has a really cool vibe with unique decor, filled with interesting knick-knacks and lush greenery. It all adds up to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.We got coffee and pastries on our visit there, but would definitely go back for lunch or dinner!“
“My family and I have been coming here for many many years. Our favorite dishes are the salt and pepper seafood. Whether you get the lobster, the shrimp, or the squid, the flavor will be top notch. I was seeking that taste of nostalgia now that I live outside of the state. When I came to visit, I was pleased to find that this spot still existed and it's still serving up all the great and authentic Vietnamese flavors they are known for.“
“Perfect place for a quick and satisfying bite on the beach. I took myself here for my birthday, it's that good!I love the fresh rolls with tofu, dipped into peanut sauce. The pho is also good, as are all the rice dishes.There are few places where you can sit so close to the beach and watch the waves / people walking by - this is perfect for a crowd or for a solo diner.I appreciate the low prices and fresh taste of every dish I've had so far. It's a nice easy meal with friendly service. Good for your stomach and your wallet!“
“Had the beef noodle soup. Absolutely delicious, very bold and intense flavor. Very good on a chilly day.The dining area was very cold. It looked very plain , no pictures , nothing on the tables. Needs character if you want people to dine in. It reminded me of a cold deli counter.“
“I love pho - probably have it every other week. I’ve been searching for my favorite spot in Boston/greater Boston and this restaurant is by far my favorite. Flavorful broth (best I’ve had in MA), good portion of meat, good amount of noodles. Plus the owner is a great, older Viet man.“