I am acutely aware that there are wonderful restaurants over in Cambridge and Somerville, which I never get to. In all honesty, I feel that sometimes it’s like having to find your passport for a trip that you just can’t be bothered to make, which is utterly silly as its only 20(ish) minutes away. That said, every time I venture over the Charles River I am rarely, if ever disappointed.
A few weeks ago my friend, Erika asked me to come to Somerville to check out her newly and fully renovated condo. I have to say I am a little jealous as it’s stunning, especially the kitchen. It makes me think that I need to stay in for 2 years to save up for a new kitchen, which of course is something I can’t possibly do :). This trip of utter envy gave me the opportunity to try out a restaurant, which has been on my “to visit” list for quite a few years now. The restaurant is Foundry on Elm right in the heart of Davis Square and walking distance from Erika’s home.
We walked into the small front restaurant right in the heart of Davis Square on a chilly Sunday evening to a warm greeting from the hosts. The first thing I noticed is that the space is huge. From the outside, you would think it was a small cozy little bistro but no, the place goes on and on towards the back. The interesting thing is that it still feels very cozy with its dark wood and vintage gastro brasserie feel.
Foundry on Elm
Foundry was relatively quiet this particular evening so we were okay with not having a reservation, which is generally recommended. We were seated at one of the high-tops right in the front window close to the enormous 40+ foot bar.
We sat there for quite some time before anyone even acknowledged us and I have to say I was getting a little frustrated, especially as the AC was also blasting down on us. Our waiter finally came over and poured some water and then disappeared for a while again without taking our order. I was beginning to dislike Davis Square and all its restaurants. Finally, she came back again and I have to say was a little sharp with us, especially when I politely asked if something can be done about the cold air. I remained very calm and asked if we had done something wrong to which her whole tone and demeanor changed. I think or hope she realized her behavior. From then on it was great service and even better food.
Now to the food. The appetizer menu offers choices of French Onion Soup, Shrimp and Grits, Poutine and Pork Belly Tostadas. Erika insisted we start with the Poutine. A ridiculous plate of ridiculously good French fries with melted cheese and gravy. Bad bad bad for the diet, amazing to taste.
Poutine – French fries, cheddar curds, hot beef gravy – $9
We ordered a glass of wine each during the Poutine tummy invasion and thought about what to have for our main. While the entrée menu did cater to the less heavy dishes of Nicoise salad and pizzetas as well as seriously comforting food of Pork Shank, Steak Frites and Scottish Salmon, I was hankering for their grilled cheese and tomato soup. This soup is creamy goodness, especially dipped into with the toasted smoked Gouda sandwich with its little bit of sweetness from the honey.
Smoky Grilled Cheese and Tomato Basil Soup – smoked Gouda, cheddar, smoked honey drizzle, Iggy’s francese bread, creamy tomato basil soup tomato – $14
Erika enjoyed the Pan Roasted Statler Chicken. A baked bone-in breast of chicken resting on a sublimely creamy goat cheese polenta, which I kept sneaking from her plate.
Pan-Roasted Statler Chicken – seared shiitake mushrooms, baby kale, creamy goat cheese polenta, sherry-maple glaze – $21
While the early part of our evening was a little rocky, I am really impressed by Foundry’s take on comfort food and will absolutely be back.
Do you have a favorite Davis Square restaurant?
