From the small plate and fusion fads to the world of craft cocktails, few places in Boston have ridden the wave of taste as well as 28 Degrees.
Having first caused a splash with a unisex lavatory, 28 is still a guaranteed good tie no matter what your gender. With its sleek and seductive Mark Bombara-designed interior, gently sectioned-off rendezvous spots and friendly, inviting patio (weather permitting), 28 is the perfect place for a professionally-handled cocktail after work, a romantic meeting, a DJ-fed party or just a great meal. And thanks to its continued popularity and spontaneous special events, you never know who or what may show up, so it’s always a good time to drop by!
As the Bellini machine gently whirs behind the deep wood and polished chrome bar (which is well stocked with artfully-placed bottles of all your favorite libations and topped by an ever-ready set of sparkling martin glasses and extra-large shakers), enjoy the seasonal projections on the gauzy space-defining screens of crashing ocean waves or roaring fireplaces while smooth and sassy Euro grooves waft overhead. When it is time to step out to the appropriately-separated restrooms, be sure to check out the additional architectural effects, including the inspired (and perhaps inspiring) overhead water element. While the design is fun and funky, it does not distract or detract from the expertly-produced foods.
From a well-paired pomegranate and pear salad with Manchego cheese to a meaty set of vegetarian spring rolls and a complex white pizza with mushrooms to a brownie sundae that is worth a trip alone (as is 28’s signature sundae trio, for those of you who want a great after-theater spot or a late-night sweet tooth fix), the kitchen at 28 turns out an array of locally-produced and creatively comfortable offerings. As it is such a socially-minded place, 28 also offers table-sized appetizers such as grilled bread with vegetarian spreads, truffle parmesan fries and burger sliders. Other main courses include mushroom risotto, slow roasted salmon, braised short ribs, and whatever else Consulting Chef William Kovel and Chef de Cuisine Jonathan Sargent, and his their kitchen staff can concoct.
In addition to the spontaneous “happenings” that add even more flash to nights at 28, the restaurant also offers such special events as four-course wine dinners on the second Wednesday of the month. Speaking of wines, the hand picked list is diverse yet approachable with an emphasis on local vintners and the wait staff is always happy to offer a taste and a tip. The beer list is similarly broad and bold. In addition to the famous Bellini machine, 28’s mixologists offer such lovely libations as the 28 sparkling cocktail (with Prosecco and Sauternes), an organic martini, a blue cheese-stuffed olive rendition and an anti-oxidant-filled version with blueberry and basil. For those who want to keep their head together in this happily hip and heady place, there is also the non-alcoholic “nectar of the gods” and re-fresh-ing fruit-tini.
So whether you are looking for a place to celebrate a birthday, a promotion, or the fact that you did your laundry today or to just get a good meal and a nice something to go with it at a table for one (perhaps in the hopes of becoming two), there is simply no place as good to get hot or chill out as 28 Degrees.
28 Degrees
1 Appleton Street, Boston
617 728 0728