Thistle & Leek
Gastropub · Newton ·
Small plates of American cuisine, including lamb meatballs
Small plates of American cuisine, including lamb meatballs
"Like other restaurants on this list, Thistle & Leek uses the New England seasons as a guidepost for the menu, rotating in vegetables like beets, tomatoes, carrots, and pumpkin throughout the year. But it’s the well-executed, globe-trotting experimentation — charred bok choy dressed in a lemongrass curry and sprinkled with peanuts; thick and sturdy romano beans piled over a black lime yogurt — that makes the restaurant an essential stop on this list. Must-try dish: Apart from the seasonal fun, don’t miss the always-on-the-menu lamb meatballs, bathed in a subtle tomato and ginger curry and served with slices of puffy naan to scoop up every drop of sauce." - Erika Adams
"If your ideal dessert begins and ends with the word “chocolate,” head to Thistle & Leek for a slice of their creamy, rich black forest cake. Stuffed with cardamom mascarpone and topped with poached cherries, this one’s a real treat." - Nathan Tavares, Erika Adams
"Chefs and owners Kate and Trevor Smith have extensive fine-dining backgrounds in kitchens like Le Bernardin and Gramercy Tavern, respectively, so it’s no surprise their seasonal, locally sourced small plates are well-executed. The wood-covered walls and casual atmosphere feel more like a neighborhood pub than a fine dining establishment. Hospitality at Thistle & Leek is expressed in warm greetings and servers that go above and beyond to make diners feel welcome." - Carolyn Grillo
"Try Trevor Smith’s lamb meatballs at Thistle & Leek." - Erika Adams
"As one of the participating restaurants in the February 28 fundraiser organized by Mida, Thistle & Leek will put a special cocktail using liquor from Uncle Nearest on the menu, with all proceeds from those drink sales on that date benefitting Heading Home." - Erika Adams
