On a recent visit to the Seaport District of Boston, I found myself opting for Tamo in part due to the overflow of patrons dining near the Blue Hills Bank Pavilion as there was a concert. This was a repeat performance by himself as I had the same experience a few weeks prior also due to a concert. Tamo, located in the street level of the Seaport Hotel across from the World Trade Center, is just far enough from the Pavilion to keep patrons at bay.
A beautiful evening I decided to eat alfresco and enjoy the comings and goings of people as they walked up and down the Seaport Boulevard onto their next destinations.
The wait staff is very friendly and promptly engaged me as I entered the restaurants patio area. I was offered a few seating options before settling in. There is a descent bar menu to choose several tasty libations.
I started my dining experience repeating my previous choices, an appetizer: The Steak & Cheese Spring Rolls with a side of Chipotle Ranch dipping sauce. The rolls were crisp and fresh, the food very hot as was the chipotle dipping sauce.
I never felt rushed and the wait staff made regular pass through of the area ensuring my drinks were never empty and I had everything I needed. Once I finished my appetizer, the bussing staff promptly requested my permission to collect the dishes and used silverware.
My waitress returned asking if I wanted anything else from the menu. I noticed many patrons were there enjoying a few drinks and sharing appetizers as they were heading elsewhere – most likely the concert.
I decided on the Tamo Burger as my main course, choosing the side salad over the French fries. The burger, served on a fresh brioche bun was a descent size and cooked as requested, medium well (there was some pink).
I never felt rushed and the service was well balanced. The bus service also provided me with a fresh linen napkin and set of silverware after taking away my first set on completing my appetizer.
My only ding with this restaurant is they insist on adding in a standard 18% gratuity. I experienced this on my previous visit with a friend so it would appear regardless the party size be it one, two, or more, they are adding in the tip. A shame as I typically start my tipping at 20%.
A nice option if you are in the Seaport District looking for good bistro style light faire and good quality drinks and service.
Tamo Bistro & Bar
Located in the street level of the Seaport Hotel across from the World Trade Center
Outside seating available (and preferred)
1 Seaport Lane, Boston, MA 02210
617-385-4304
website: http://www.tamoboston.com/
reservations: http://www.opentable.com
