I’ve been to Eastern Standard many many times over the past several years and may even border on calling myself a regular. There are numerous good restaurants/ bars in Boston, but ESK is truly one of the very best for several reasons. The food is always superb. I frequently choose to indulge in the baked rigatoni, simply because it’s out of this world. Other great menu options include the burger- it’s fantastic, the charcuterie plate- it’s inventive, the mussels- they’re delicious, and the mac & cheese- certainly worth ordering to share with the rest of your party. One of the best aspects of ESK is its flexibility. I’ve taken my parents there when they come to town to visit; I’ve indulged in the late-night menu (worth trying if you’re in that area after midnight); I’ve hosted a dinner party for 15 in the private dining room; and I’ve sat at the bar on a fun and lively weeknight/weekend night. The servers are knowledgeable, the drink list is creative and the dining and bar scene are always vibrant. It’s close to Fenway so a good stop before or after a baseball game, but really a must try if live in or visit Boston.

We had lunch here and were delighted with our choice. There are quite a few options along Kenmore Square and external appearance are difficult to read. The food came quickly, it tasted delicious and there was plenty of it. The price was also easy to take. We'd come back here again.

I have visited ES many times and have never been disappointing. It's a perfect place for lunch, dinner, late night, romance, big group, bar scene, brunch, everything. The food is not out of this world, but it's reasonably priced (for one of the best restaurants in the city), the drink selection is amazing and the atmosphere, especially outside in the summer, is second to none. Definitely a place to eat if you are visiting the city.

This place is frustrating. It has a good vibe, excellent service, great drinks, bar scene and desserts. But the food? Mediocre at best. I've been there three times and continue to be disappointed. There is so mmuch potential here, but for the price and the area there are much much better choices that actually have great food, not just "so-so." Sorry ESK, maybe I'll come back for a cocktail sometime, but it'll be a while before I actually try a full meal again. Is the popularity due to a large student population (BU) nearby that hasn't experienced any of the better cuisine in the area? Of course, I could be wrong.