New American Café

New England winters do not typically conjure thoughts of a lunch soaked in sunlight while you are toasty warm in an open, seemingly outdoor, space. Discovery of such a place has been made at the New American Café at the Museum of Fine Arts.

With the snow piled high outside and temperature in the single digits I sat down to lunch. Though it was technically inside, it is hard to remember that with a dramatically high ceiling in a large indoor courtyard and walls of glass allowing the bright mid-day light to pour in. This is al fresco dining in the winter for sure.

Since the new Art of the Americas wing recently opened, the crowds have been large. Therefore, the lunch rush does not begin at a typical noon hour. Be early or be prepared to wait. A long line usually forms and remains throughout the day. The aforementioned atmosphere is one reason, so is the menu.

Somehow a watermelon colored red fizzy drink was called for on this winter day. A Raspberry Lime Ricky would fit the bill well. Todd had a Harpoon IPA which was a beer pairing with his entrée. A definite benefit to the menu is the recommended pairings which are diverse and are an example of their selection of regional American wines and micro beers.

Our salad was local cider vinaigrette on field greens with pickled vegetables and candied pecans was tasty and well dressed. The pickled veggies were distinct and obviously done in house. The salad was certainly on the small side, even for an appetizer, at least in comparison to a Paparazzi salad which two plus people can share with ease.

Todd had the New England Farm Burger with aged Grafton Cheddar, house pickles, smoked bacon, and tobacco onions. He enjoyed the trio of sharp cheese, creamy mayo and spicy seasoning. The burger in concert with the freshness and local nature of the ingredients made it distinctive and something to return for.

I had a hand carved turkey Panini with Applewood smoked bacon, Boggy Meadow Swiss cheese, and apple-cranberry tapenade. The bread was perfectly tender on the inside and crispy on the outside which I love. The cheese was outstanding and perfect in company with the cranberry tapenade. The onions on the side were addicting with their balance of crunchy, sweet, and soft. I did not prefer the pickles. Ever so sour and homemade, Todd was happy to receive mine! They would be delightful if a serious pucker is what you desire.

I actually did not want dessert. Stop the presses now! Todd ordered one though, and asked for two spoons. He has been with me long enough to know me better then myself. A Black and White Banana Split Sundae was his superb selection. The one exception to that description was the brandied cherries. They had passed the point of drunk a long time ago and where drowned in brandy well past the point of enjoyment. Once Todd sacrificed himself and ate those, the pregnant lady was cleared to dive into the praline crunch, sweet cream, and caramelized bananas! I have visited once since this day and seriously thought about ordering one to-go as I was racing through the courtyard with a toddler needing to nap. It was just that good!

The menu claims to access northeast family farms as much as possible. It appears that most dishes contain at least one item that is local, holding true to their promise. Other items included: Butternut Squash Gratin, Seafood Pie, Braised Beef Short Ribs, and the Market Fish specialty of the day. The prices are what you would expect for the venue and menu with sandwiches and burgers from $12-$17 and entrees about $20 to $30.

The wait staff was fine, but mediocre. In a place were almost everything else was lovely, it is too bad their staff does not have higher standards placed upon them. No reason not to return though. They were not incompetent, just not considerate.

I will be back for sure. If not before, certainly when the wind begins to blow and snow flakes are invading New England once again.