Lin at Lunch – Panificio
Somehow I messed up this summer. Everyone was talking about it at Neptune Oyster House and Legal Harborside. We even went to Maine, but ate so well there that there was simply no opportunity. I forgot to have a lobster roll.
Luckily that situation was remedied last week, albeit a little late. When a conference brought me over to MGH last week, I was looking for lunch that would be quick without having to venture too far away.
Panificio fit all of these criteria. The quaint, casual bistro focuses on freshly-prepared sandwiches and salads. When looking over the small selection on daily specials, the Lobster Roll immediately caught my eye: fresh Manchester-by-the-Sea lobster, a hint of celery and just a touch of Hellmans mayo, on a butter grilled split top bun ($13.50). There was an intriguing option to add black truffle butter but since this would be my first and likely last lobster of the season I decided to pass on the truffle butter. The lobster roll was just what I wanted: simple and delicious. The celery added a nice flavor and texture to the lobster meat and of course, the buttered roll was a must. It was served with a small side of cole slaw and a pickle. The cole slaw was just OK but the pickle was salty, just the way I like it.
Our lunch was enjoyed in the small dining room at counter seats along the window. Looking out to the brownstone-lined Charles St on a gorgeous and sunny day is a very nice way to enjoy a lobster roll, even if it is a little past the season.
Is there a dish you feel like you missed out on this summer?
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