The Blue Ox

I would like to tell you guys a story.. I’ve been to this restaurant many times..love it.. went the other day.. here are some pictures.. but that’s not the story.. Two days later my son comes to me and tells me it’s his first anniversary with his first girlfriend (he is 16) and he wanted to take her there.. He tried to use resy, but unfortunately he is under 18, so I made the reservation for him.. gave him some cash, made sure apple pay was working..and told him I’ll be near by if he needed me.. My son told me the blue ox was amazing, the food, as usual was amazing, and also gave him free dessert.. you cannot imagine how grateful I am to the blue ox for doing that for him. You guys are a neighborhood restaurant, and this is why I’ll always be recommending people to you.. Also never forget the staff.. they are always amazing and accommodating.

We were 30 minutes early for our reservation and there was no table available in the dining room so we had to sit at a table in the bar. Our server while very friendly and courteous was covering many tables; 1-6 top, 2-4tops, and 4-2 tops as well as tending bar for awhile. It was probably good that he helped out at the bar though because drinks took awhile to get delivered after ordering. The Bacon and Legs drink and the in house made kahlua were very tasty. Our food took awhile to get to us and was delivered by a different staff member. Unfortunately my husband's food was cold. My food was good but my husband's burger had an off taste almost as if it had liver mixed in. The creme brulee was good, hard to eat with the fork they gave us though. The tres leches cake was very dry. Other than taking our orders we didn't see much of our server.

We loved this restaurant and the food is top tier. They were really great at asking about allergies but did bring bread with the brie appetizer after noting that the individual eating it had a gluten allergy. Those of us that can eat gluten loved the bread and the butter was so good! Creamed corn was some of the best corn I have ever had. I enjoyed the salmon dish and my partner really liked the crispy chicken. We would definitely come back.

The Blue Ox blends great food, friendly service, and a relaxed but classy vibe. It’s one of the best spots in Lynn…we were blown away by how tasty it was. The appetizers were mouthwatering, the entrees were amazing, and the desserts were decadent. We highly recommend eating here!

Sammy, our waiter was excellent! He was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and made us feel like a welcome guest. The special maple butter served with fresh bread is delicious. We had the filet and porterhouse steaks with asparagus. One with mashed and the other with potato croquettes. All cooked and seasoned perfectly!

Went here for dinner prior to catching a flight out of Boston. Only 25 mins away from airport and a real gem. Food excellent, very varied and interesting menu. Sweet pea and caramelised onion ravioli and crispy chicken were excellent. Desserts to die for.. Whoever was in charge of the music playlist has excellent taste. (If I don't say so myself) Thoughtful touches in the food and with facilities in the bathroom.. won't spoil it for you by telling you what, someone is very customer focused. An excellent experience.

We came for Father’s Day, and the food was delicious. My Dad absolutely loved the stuffed lobster tail. Everything was great, highly recommend!

The Blue Ox SIn Burger still delivers. This North of Boston gem in Lynn is still a foodie destination. The Blue Ox Lynn hosted an influencers dinner and overwhelmed us with sxcellent flavors. My personal favorite was their super tender Flat Iron Steak Other items like the bolognese, Espresso martinis, Pork belly and OX Crispy Chicken also impressed. Featured: Braised Pork Belly - Scallion & sesame rice, pork cracklings, hot honey barbeque sauce Ox Wings - Cajun rub, oak smoked, hot honey sauce, blue cheese dressing, scallions, sesame seeds The “Sin” Burger* - Applewood smoked bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, truffle aioli, Swiss cheese - Boston Magazine “Battle of the Burger” Winner 2013, 2014, 2015 Northshore Magazine "BONS" Winner 2023 Bolognese Pork, beef & lamb ragu, garlic, rosemary, cream, parmesan cheese OX Crispy Chicken - Herb marinated Bell & Evans boneless half-chicken, sage red bliss smashed potatoes, sautéed garlic & spinach, chicken au jus 14oz. Kurobuta Pork Chop* - Grilled asparagus, frijoles charros, braised pinto beans, bacon, onions, garlic, jalapeños, tomatoes Grilled Marinated Flat Iron Steak* - Hand cut herb fries, grilled asparagus, Chimichurri The Blue Ox North of Boston

The food. Wow. The baked brie is probably the best appetizer I've ever had. Baked with fruits and nuts, this dish is sure to not disappoint. For our entrees we got a cold smoked filet with some sage mashed potatoes and asparagus, yum! The best entree is the sin burger. Oozing with cheese and bacon, garnished with some truffle mayo - this burger is all-world. Desserts here are just meh. Enjoy the apps and entrees and skip the desserts. Service is usually always good. Often busy around 6pm on weekends, it can get jam packed. Drinks here are excellent. From martinis, to craft cocktails, to craft beers. They really excellent in their beverages. Food allergy recommendation here is about a 7 - 10. There has been a few times where the waiter has been confused about me stating my shellfish allergy, and has said that I cannot eat anything on the grill. Other times, they have told me that I'm fine to get items off the grill. A little more clarity at times would be assuring. Somewhat puzzles me but every experience I have had here has been excellent.

Only four stars (so far) because I have not yet had dinner there; I've had excellent oysters and very good cocktails, and expert and friendly service, and fun conversations. The menu is very enticing, and the vibe is cool in the afternoon-- I stop on my way home from work for a post work day drink (Bacon & Leggs-- bacon infused bourbon and a hint of syrup) and some fresh oysters about once a week. I have no doubt I will add that fifth star once I've committed to dinner there.

I was in town and was taken to this place for dinner because it was highly recommended. After spending time going trough the menu and spying on all the food around me, I chose the filet medallions. I ordered them medium-rare, and it was cooked perfectly. The meat was so tender and juicy that I switched to my butter knife to cut it up. The asparagus was extra thick and grilled to be soft on the outside with a nice little bite on the inside. The mashed potatoes were creamy and flavorful too.The wine reduction gravy was the perfect addition to bring all the flavors together. It was rich and it had a deep complex flavor. It really made the steak and potatoes even more delicious. I finished the meal by sharing the sticky toffee pudding for dessert which was also amazing.It was the perfect way to end a delicious meal. The service was excellent too. Our waiter was attentive and knowledgeable, and he made sure that we had everything we needed. Overall, the food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone with time in the area.

Amazing food! Stopped by during a Salem trip after finding them on Yelp and everything we had here was fantastic. We got the Tuna tar tar and calamari for appetizers, which was super crispy. I also appreciated the fried veggies that accompanied it in the dish. My husbands swordfish was cooked perfectly and my grilled hanger steak with chimmichuri was so flavorful! My son even moved to color at the table and enjoyed his buttered pasta. Great experience!

My family came here to celebrate my nieces birthday. Compared to its reputation before, it has become more family friendly as there were lots of young kids around. Prices also match the casualness of it as well which we were surprised about. My sister and I shared their baked stuffed Brie as well as an order of mussels. Most people got their burgers and my sister got their half Chicken and Herb Roasted Boneless. The Brie was stuffed with figs, apricots, and cranberries. It was salty, sweet and delicious on the soft baguette slices drizzled with balsamic glaze. The mussels looked good but the flavorful was overpowering. Chicken was crispy and salty. French fries had too much salt and served as the truffle fries even though everyone wanted the plain ones instead. Dessert was their chocolate cake and the sticky toffee cake with cinnamon ice cream. Chocolate cake was too sweet in my opinion. The toffee wasn't sticky but it was warm and soft. I really enjoyed the ice cream and would like a pint to take home. Overall, we had a decent experience. Food was okay with fair prices. Staff were incredibly friendly and quick to check in on us. Would come again to try their burger next week with more Brie. It's a casual environment with tight parking in the eastern bank next door as it was already full by 5:50 pm. There is also the other lot across the street with plenty of spots.

Was looking for a place to enjoy National Cheeseburger Day and I found this place on Yelp. Needless to say my plans were thrown off course when the bartender (Nate) convinced me to try the special, which was meatloaf. I can go back anytime for a burger, but the meatloaf was a limited time option. Glad he convinced me. Started out my meal with some fresh Great White oyesters - excellent brine and a nice finish. Could have easily eaten a dozen of these. Followed the oysters with the main course of the meatloaf. It was sitting on top of mashed potatoes, spinach and a nice demi-glace. And to add to the ambiance, Nate created the "bacon and legs" cocktail with a flamed orange. Loved the atmosphere and service in this place. Will absolutely return.

Was in Lynn area and decided to get a few recommendations for dinner spot-hit the jackpot following advice to go to The Blue Ox! Every meal (6 patrons) was delicious-fresh, hot and presented with ease and great service. We ordered calamari and tuna tartare apps both delicious. Great option in the area

Great service and ambiance. Have an office in Lynn so when I'm around I love to stop by. Gina knows how to make a killer margarita and the staff is 6*. Enjoy

Very nice decor and ambiance. Food was very good. Service could have been better, had to ask for silverware for one place setting and no napkin was provided. Waiter could have been more attentive.

We had Matthew as our server and he was incredibly attentive and kind. I wish he smiled but I love a good smile. He was quick and very good at balancing many tables at once! Food was so hot and fresh and delicious! I wanted more!

Must get the burger and try the chicken it was delish , you can't go wrong with anything going back Friday

Love this place! Always consistent. Cool vibe, and the service is excellent! Great menu options and always yummy

Mathew our waiter was wonderful and the food was great for everyone. We had just completed a very long and stressful family week with the passing of my father. This was a very nice, positive distraction.

Acoustics are terrible conversation is impossible Cold atmosphere intimacy no where to be found

We have been going to the Blue Ox for years. Our original meal dates back to the previous owner Matt. That said the current owners are very smart business people that must live by the adage "if it ain't broke don't fix it". The quality of the food preparation has not changed much if at all, still some of the best meals that you can get North of Boston. I would tell you what we order but there is not a bad meal on the menu, it's all great though salmon and Bolognese are my go to meals. The service though a lot of change post Covid still has some of the original people like Dawn and Matt and is excellent. We typically choose Dawn as she is not only great at her job but she has become a good friend also. The atmosphere is the same usually very busy and can be noisy but that is what happens when you have great food the place fills up every night. This is by far our #1 go to when my wife and I are not on the Cape.

BO is a north shore hidden gem, the bolognese or the burger you can't go wrong, it's all good! Make a reservation because it's always busy.

Food is a little pricey but worth it! My son took me there for Mother's Day. Great! I was very impressed.

Great place!! Loved the food and atmosphere. So refreshing to have great customer service

After spending the afternoon looking at houses, we met some friends here for some much-needed sustenance. I have heard great things about this place, not just on yelp but with friends too. Our server was great and funny and made me a special mojito that was not too sweet and was super refreshing! Decor: very dark in here, cozy bar feeling. Plenty of seating. Food: We started with the truffle fried and oysters. Both are outstanding and could have been a meal all on their own. The guy opted for the ribeye special, this was a big cut of meat on the bone. It was pricey! I wish the server had given us the cost beforehand or wish we had thought to ask because, at the end of the dinner, we were all a little shocked at the bill. The guys said it was worth it tho. I got the corn risotto and opted to add lobster to it. This was delicious. There was heat from something in there that melded beautifully with the sweet from the corn and lobster. Also, plenty of lobster throughout. Another friend got the chicken, and wow, the crisp on that skin was divine! She and I could not finish - so yay for lunches the next day. Cost: It is a lil pricey, not an every-week kind of place, but we probably would go back.

Food is pretty good! Came here on a weekday for dinner and it wasn't busy. Service was good and ambiance was casual. It's pretty expensive for what you get, but otherwise decent food.

Phenomenal everything was on point and server was very nice I would go everyday if I could . First time I ever tried oysters and it was a great experience

Great all around! Food/wine/service. And of course the maple butter to go on your bread before you eat is utterly incredible.

Delicious food and friendly service. Obviously a little pricey but once in a while, you have to treat yourself. Nice atmosphere.

Love the vibe. You must sit at the bar. Happy hour oysters are delicious. You have to try the Iggy's bread with maple butter.

This restaurant has been here for quite sometime. If you haven't been here you MUST! Nate is the most wonderful and talented mixologist. He also serves your beverage and food with wonderful conversation and care. I really needed to be here tonight and every thing fell into place. Thanks Nate and the fine Chef and kitchen staff!!!

When Blue Ox was sold several years back, regulars were all assured that none of their faves would disappear... and they haven't! My favorite tuna tartare north of Boston, their pear and goat cheese salad, the truffled parmesan fries, the "Sin" Burger (a best of Boston champ from some years back), and their gorgeous, locally sourced cod... they're all there. Service is always gracious, above and beyond any possible expectations. In addition to great cocktails, there is always a separate, lively bar scene, with "Under $5 before 5" apps available. For a nice change of pace, even city dwellers can have a nice day, strolling the Downtown Lynn Cultural District, and capping it off with delicious food and drink, at The Blue Ox.

Hidden gem in Lynn highly recommend finding this spot and getting the burger (Voted Best Burger in Boston)

Very elegant atmosphere, all kinds of sorted, mixed drinks, I think it may be a little pricey, but all in all, you'll enjoy your experience

Food and service was impeccable! Went there before a show at the Lynn Aud and was not disappointed

Not going to lie- was little unsure I even wanted to go. But so happy I did. Met my friend there. We've both heard such good reviews so figured it was worth trying. So happy we did. Really cute & cozy inside, bustling, very busy fun atmosphere.. For starters we ordered the Spicy Tuna Tartare cucumber, cilantro, scallion, chive cream, Ox chili sauce, house made potato chips and the Signature Ox Wings Cajun rub, Ryan & Wood oak smoked, honey hot sauce, blue cheese tarragon dressing. I don't think I've had better Tuna Tartare. So so good. And the chicken wings- excellent. We also split the Classic Caesar Salad crisp romaine hearts, garlicky croutons, Ox Caesar dressing, Parmigiana. Which was decent. For meal I had the Rigatoni Bolognese pork, beef, & lamb ragout, garlic, toasted rosemary, touch of cream, Parmigiano and my friend had the Grilled Marinated Hanger Steak Ox herb French fries, grilled asparagus, salsa verde . We decided to share and devoured the Bolognese. The steak was good but little tough. But also it's prob the type of meat it was. The French fries that came with it though. Omg- so good dipped in the aioli. All in all I would definitely go back & probably try other things on the menu- but would have to get that Tuma Tartare again. Yum.

Great food and excellent service, best hot and dirty martinis EVER!! Also look no further for a better burger

Lovely little restaurant. Cozy, bar-esque atmosphere. Weird thing is the drinks took forever and some specialty cocktails weren't great. Service was excellent. Food was, no fuss, yummy and great bang for the buck. Love the baked brie. Wish we had made it for the happy hour oysters. Free parking in the bank is next door.

Fabulous local diner/bar! Tuna tartare is my favorite so far. It contains a strong sweet taste and a slightly sour taste. The thin sliced crispy chips work perfectly with the soft tuna meat. The ox wings were a little bit too spicy and salty for me, but I can tell this would be a great bar food because of its features. Truffle fries is another must try appetizer. Order a beer with it and enjoy the chilling bar atmosphere. The service was way more than just good. The server kept checking on me and refilled my Diet Coke without me asking. In addition, she wrapped up the to-go food perfectly. I will come back tomorrow or the day after for more food and will definitely try some cocktails.

Excellent food and service . My only complaint would be the cocktails were not the greatest, served lukewarm instead of icy cold. Fun vibe and every item we ordered was delicious. Pear salad with fresh salmon was a standout, as were the calamari and truffle fries.

Hip dining in least likely downtown Lynn location. Sampled a few inventive dishes and was impressed. Will return.

Food was nice but the drinks could be better . Service is really good , they treated us well. Ambience a bit rustic but comfortable atmosphere for a good dinner.

Excellent, one of our favorite places! Staff is very friendly. Highly recommend. Food and cocktails are always consistently excellent.

We love the food at blue ox! The apps are great and we've never had a bad entree. The desserts are also excellent and a must try!

I was in the area and decided to try this place and it turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Food: from a glance at the menu, the menu looked quite basic. Seafood, burgers, salad etc. However everything came out amazing. I ordered the wings, salmon and bread pudding (i think?) for dessert. The wings were just perfect. They were crunchy and the sauce had the perfect amount of kick. If you can not handle spicy I recommend staying away. The salmon also came out in a decent sized portion. The dessert wasnt your typical bread pieces overly soaked in a sauce. It was the best I have ever had and came with a gigantic scoop of ice cream. Service: ryan was our guy and he was amazing. He made a great recommendation for a sour beer and he was so knowledgeable about the art of cooking. Ambiance: relaxed low key vibes Parking: street Recommend asking about the sin burger before going because they ran out when I was there so I didnt get to try it.

Best restaurant on the North Shore! Outstanding food, exceptional service and overall incredible atmosphere!

The sin is the best burger ever. The two critical pieces to be the best burger, patty and buns. The patty is so juicy with right amount of fat. A bite into the airy potato buns with the juicy patty in between..what else do I need to say more.

Excellent food, very lively atmosphere and very unique cocktails. Have been several times and they never disappoint.

I would recommend the Sin burger and the chowder. It's small, so make a reservation. I think there is a parking lot but I found a street spot.

Amazing food, service and atmosphere. The drink menu is great as well. Always a great time at the ox!

Amazing food and drinks! Their service is impeccable! They serve their hot and dirty martinis with a full pickle!!

I used to love this restaurant. But things are much different now and I hear it's new ownership, but not sure. I would consider returning for wings and beer, but not much else. Pros: - vast beer and wine selection; interesting cocktails - Generous wine pours - tremendously flavorful wings (I ordered them well done) - good homemade chips - great server - parking Cons: - the prices are high for what you get. My friend's hanger steak was tiny - the tuna tartar was like chips and onion dip with some Asian-inspired tuna on top. A very odd combo. It takes pretty good, but for $20, I really just wanted to taste tuna (it was overwhelmed by other dense flavors) - prices in general were high. A salad with salmon on it was $32 - the bolognese was very different and not in a good way. Too Al dente and not appealing to look at. It was ok, but there are way too many great ones out there to order this here Basically, the only amazing thing was the wings.

Brie appetizer is awesome Steak is the nuts Toffee dessert is the kind of dessert to go there to have after eating somewhere else

I live a short walk away, so I am here often - probably twice a month or more. Place is incredible - great food and service. It's always excellent - very consistent. Recommend the Sin Burger, the meatloaf (Mondays), crispy chicken, and a great selection of appetizers. The toffee pudding and cinnamon ice cream is a great desert. -

We had very high expectations for The Blue Ox and had waited for a special occasion to visit. It was superb. On this Tuesday night, the place was bustling. Our advanced reservation placed us in the dining room side although we also could have reserved a high top table on the bar side where you enter. Our server was a great Guy- very knowledgeable, helpful and checked-in frequently without being overbearing as we planned our meal. We decided to split three items all delivered sequentially to perfection. We started with Tuna Tartare that was a patty created with chunks of tuna, crisp and crunchy cucumber, cilantro and scallions. This was refreshing, a little spicy and delicious. Next we had the Pear Salad- a green salad with sliced pears and goat cheese and added marinated grilled shrimp- perhaps the most flavorful shrimp I've ever had. Finally we finished with the Icelandic Cod sitting on a bed of risotto. The salad and cod were both nicely split for us which added to our dining experience. This is a restaurant in which the creative mix of ingredients taste delicious. The service, food and ambiance resulted in a special experience. A return is guaranteed!

Good service and good food; we like and frequent this restaurant for night out with friends