Balani Restaurant Opens in Waltham | Eater Boston

"Chef Dave Becker, after years running Italian and Eastern Mediterranean restaurants, opened a new experimental spot on 469 Moody St. (the former Raffaele’s) on October 23. The interior was refreshed with neon accents—hot pink and purple alongside grays, stained wood, mercury glass fixtures and black leather seating—creating an ’80s-fabulous vibe. The kitchen, led by Juniper’s Tim Fichera with James Collis running a portable smoker, emphasizes a nimble, staff-driven menu of small plates, entrees and desserts that blends diverse influences: sea scallop crudo, chickpea fries with paprika-sumac mayo, crispy smoked pork ribs, charred pear salad with burnt onions, smoked monkfish kofta, chicken liver manti, and pizzas topped with house-made chorizo, pulled short rib or grilled pears with squash purée. The team makes its own potato chips and duck-fat fries for poutine and is testing smoked brisket and pork butt. Entrees ($17–$28) include a smashed burger with frites, katsudon with a soft-cooked egg, scallop paella and crispy adobo chicken with bourbon biscuits; desserts include Boston cream loukoumades and house-made Pop-Tarts (curried raisin and red bean). With a full liquor license, a focus on local beer and wine, cocktails and slushies, and a collaborative "hall of fame" staff approach, the restaurant aims to stay flexible—keeping popular dishes and quickly rotating out those that aren’t—while prioritizing good, tasty food and a welcoming team ethos." - Dana Hatic