Though the view from the tall windows is of the parking lot and, beyond that, the traffic disaster that is Needham Street, District 118 is a pelasant place to pull over and also very much worth a trip (especially compared to many of the faster-food places nearby). And once inside, it is easy to forget the mess that lies just beyond Gardner Mattress.

With its reclaimed wood and exposed brick, old gears and photos of what seems to be a relative Golden Age in the neighborhood, District 118 (www.districtkitchenandbar.com) hearkens back to a simpler time. The menu offers a similarly comfortable range of food that, while not simple, is not showy either, other than in terms of taste. From braised lamb gnocchi and Gruyere-topped Reuben to short rib grilled cheese and a quinoa mushroom veggie burger, the menu offers creative takes on family favorites and has plenty of space for families and groups of all sizes. If you come alone, feel free to grab a seat along the long bar that corners the large room and that is backed by shelves of filled and display bottles and a trio of tvs. If you have more in your party, the leather booths and communal table offer nearly as many options as the menu.

Speaking of the bar, the cocktail set is equally interesting, with full martini service and fresh fruit-infused faves like a blood orange margarita and the fruity rum-based District Tiki. There are also a variety of domestic and imported wines and nearly 20 drafts hailing from all over New England and beyond. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, District has Meme Tea and Aerosmith drummer Joey Kramer’s own Sumatran coffee blend (either of which go well with their mash-up of cheesecake and crème brulee).

So if traffic on Needham Street has you yearning for the days before all the endless construction or you just want a family-friendly place to stop for a bite, stop at the new District at 118 Needham Street in Newton and get away from…most of it.