Lower Dot

Dorchester Winter Farmers' Market!

2012-01-22T14:36:00.009-05:00

The Winter Market was packed with Dorchesterites, shopping for vegetables, breads, and cakes. We were able to pick up some wonderful garlic and kale. We also saw plenty of grass-fed beef, collard greens, sweet potatoes, potatoes, butternut squash, and radishes. It is amazing what they can grow locally during the always cold New England winter. Some standouts included Good Measure Bakery, Lawton Cheese and Meats, Silverbrook Farm, and Oakdale Farm. The Winter Farmers' Market runs Sundays 12-3 from January to March.

Dorchester Winter Farmers' Market
The Great Hall, Codman Square
6 Norfolk St., Dorchester
Located in Codman Square. Just northwest of the Ashmont T stop (Walk about 1/2 mile up Talbot Street).
dotcommcoop.wordpress.com

New Asian Resturant and Bar on Dot Ave.

2012-01-11T19:45:00.005-05:00

We have been driving by this place in Savin Hill for over a year and it was always under construction. Originally, we heard it was going to be a sushi bar. Instead, they seem to serve Japanese shabu shabu with some other types of Asian cuisine. If they are up to our standards, we hope to review them soon...

For a review from boston.com, check out: http://www.boston.com/yourtown/boston/dorchester/gallery/van_shabu_restaurant/

(Photo courtesy of boston.com)

Peabody Square Tree Lighting 2011 - This Saturday (11/26) at 7:30

2011-11-18T17:00:00.003-05:00

It is time again for the annual Peabody Square tree lighting. Head on down to the square (near the north end of Ashmont Station) before 7:30 on Saturday (11/26) to enjoy the treats and Santa in a trolley...

Dorchester Highlighted on Channel 5's Chronicle

2011-10-15T20:02:00.011-04:00

In case you missed it, check out the video...

Segment 1

Segment 2

Segment 3

Segment 4

Bakery Coming to Lower Mills?

2011-09-25T14:24:00.004-04:00

Although we do not have any hard evidence yet, the rumor floating around Dorchester is that a new bakery will be opening in the former site of Common Ground in Lower Mills. We walked by the other day and it certainly resembles a bakery... So stay tuned.

UPDATE: The Boston Globe reports that there will be a new bakery called Sweet Life Bakery and Café in the former Common Ground space sometime in October. It will serve baked good and have a lunch menu. We are excited!

(Photo courtesy of Cake and Commerce)

Be Sure to Watch Ashmont Grill on Food Network's Sugar High

2011-08-24T10:42:00.016-04:00

Do you love the Sticky Toffee Pudding at the Ashmont Grill? Well, so does Food Network... Tune into Ashmont Grill's national television debut (along side such Boston establishments as Modern Pastry, Myers + Chang, and Daddy's Fried Dough Food Cart), which airs on the Food Network on August 26th at 10:30 pm. Ashmont Grill will be hosting a Sugar High premier party at the same time, and if you show up they will give you a free mini Sticky Toffee Pudding! Here is the link to the Sugar High show info: Ashmont Grill on Sugar High

Food Trucks Are Coming to Lower Dot!

2011-07-13T15:23:00.012-04:00

Yesterday, the mayor announced that food trucks will rotate around 15 new permanent locations across the city, including a spot near Ashmont Station that will be open for lunch and dinner (with the location required to close by 9 pm). The food trucks are diverse in their cuisine, from Vietnamese bánh mỳ sandwiches to cupcakes to soul food to grilled cheese. A full list of vendors is available at the Boston Redevelopment Authority and Boston Food. There is also a website to track the food trucks that will soon be up and running and you could always go to the city of Boston's Food Truck Program website to learn more. When the first food trucks end up in our 'hood, we will be sure to review them! Happy eating Lower Dot...

UPDATE: You may have noticed that we recently changed the picture of the food truck on this post. A couple weeks ago, we were talking with the Bon Me food truck folks at their BU location and when asked if they would ever be coming to Dorchester, they told us "it is not likely" (in a somewhat condescending tone). We feel it is unnecessary to promote them any further.

(Bottom photo courtesy of City Rover.)

The Tour de Frances Comes to Dot!

2011-07-06T10:31:00.008-04:00

Enjoy celebrating the French Revolution, by watching of the Tour de France at Dot-2-Dot Cafe on Bastille Day. On July 14th at 6:30 pm, DotBike will be teaming up with Ashmont Cycles to host a viewing party of the the 12th stage of the Tour. As usual, Dot-2-Dot will offer their fine menu for you to choose from and the organizers are asking for a small donation for beer and snacks. There will be trivia questions for giveaways presented by Pretty Things Beers.

Bastille Day Tour de France Viewing Party
Thursday July 14th 6:30pm
Dot-2-Dot Cafe
1739 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.938.9342
Located on the edge of Melville Park just south of St. Mark's Parish on Dorchester Ave. Just southeast of the Shawmut T stop.

(Bottom photo courtesy of Sean Bender)

Dorchester Avenue Walk

2011-07-01T17:39:00.002-04:00

Do you like walking? Do you like Dorchester? Then join Boston Complete Streets for a free walking tour of Dorchester Avenue from Fields Corner to Peabody Square with Mark Fenton, host of PBS's "America's Walking." Refreshments will be served and it is free and open to the public. RSVP to Patrick.Hoey@cityofboston.gov.

Annual Ashmont Hill Yard Sale Saturday!

2011-05-17T17:13:00.006-04:00

The weather will hopefully brighten for one of the most amazing neighborhood yard sales in the country. You should head on over to Ashmont Hill from 9 am to 2 pm this Saturday (May 21st) and enjoy sifting through all the radical stuff people put on tables in their driveways. It features over 40 house and there are numerous stands selling food, from hot dogs and hamburgers to BBQ. You can really make it into a daylong activity!

For more information: www.ashmonthill.org

Located west of Peabody Square. Exit the northern end of the Ashmont T stop, walk up Dorchester Ave., and then turn left on Ashmont Street, follow signs to yard sales.

First Ever Dorchester Pub Crank!

2011-05-06T15:59:00.003-04:00

Adding to the amazing bike affinity and hipness of Dorchester... We received an anonymous tip that the first ever Dorchester Pub Crank will be held Sunday May 15th, starting at 5 pm. After an extensive web-search for the term "pub crank" we are also claiming it to be the first ever pub crank in the world. Our understanding is that a pub crank is like a pub crawl, but the participants ride (responsibly) on bikes from one establishment to the next.

It begins at the Banshee (934 Dorchester Ave.), and then continues on to Savin Bar and Kitchen, Harp & Bard, dbar, Blaney Stone, Centre Bar, The Ledge, Tavolo, and concludes (probably pretty late) at the Ashmont Grill.

There are important rules that must be followed:
Participants are disqualified for:
a. Being hit by a car
b. Crashing
c. Not having at least 3 drinks

(Photo courtesy of Sean Bender - who to the best of our knowledge is not involved in the pub crank, we took this photo from the Internet)

Common Ground... Kaput?

2011-05-06T15:45:00.012-04:00

The Dorchester Reporter said this week that Common Ground, that quirky restaurant in Lower Mills run by the religious group the Twelve Tribes, is permanently closed. Word is that the group is seeking another possible location somewhere in Dorchester. We hope it is true, because we are already missing their sandwiches. On the up side, it seems the spot is well-suited for a restaurant and we are hoping that another eatery replaces it soon. Our fingers are crossed for Japanese/Sushi, but we will certainly appreciate other cuisines as well.

For our review of Common Ground Cafe from 2006:
Common Ground Cafe

For the story in the Dorchester Reporter:
Lower Mills Eatery Common Ground Will Not Re-open

__________________________________________________________________

Also, the problem has been resolved with our blog rating stars... We encourage you to peruse the blog for your favorite things in Lower Dot and rate away!

Sea Breeze Mexican Grill

2011-04-23T13:37:00.012-04:00

The kitschy atmosphere (yes, that is a harpoon on the wall!) and friendly staff (yes, our waiter was awesome) is a wonderful complement to the tasty Mexican fare at Sea Breeze Mexican Grill. Erin had the Sea Breeze Enchiladas with the Mango Shake (Yum!). Chris had the beef burrito with a side of rice and beans. Both were generous portions and made us feel as if we were vacationing on the Mexican coast. You can even get guacamole made table side. It is run by a wonderful couple, who have a passion for Mexican cooking. This is a great addition to Lower Dot!

NOTE: Sea Breeze Mexican Grill is in the process of getting a take out license (yes, please!) and we encourage everyone to stop by and sign the petition.

Sea Breeze Mexican Grill
1782 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Located on Dorchester Avenue at the corner of Shepton Street. Just north of the Ashmont T stop and southeast of the Shawmut T stop.

Have you been to Sea Breeze Mexican Grill? Rate it below.

Dot Park Easter Egg Hunt 2011

2011-04-22T18:54:00.002-04:00

The annual Dorchester Park Easter Egg Hunt is this Saturday (April 23, 2011) at 10 am at the tennis courts. It is great fun for children and families, and is free and open to the public.

For our blog entry from 2007:
Dorchester Park Easter Egg Hunt

Introducing Ashmont Cycles!

2011-02-25T17:26:00.007-05:00

Do you like to bike? Have you an old cycle in the garage that needs a little TLC? Well today we walked by the future home of Ashmont Cycles in Peabody Square (next to Ashmont Grill). This will be Lower Dot's first full service bike shop and we are super excited. The word on the street is that it is opening on March 1st. DotBike's write up says that Ashmont Cycles will stock a full line of Fuji and Linus bicycles for every age and interest, as well as helmets, locks, mirrors and other accessories. They will also repair all makes and models of bicycles.

Ashmont Cycles
www.ashmontcycle.com/about.html

(Top photo courtesy of DotBike and bottom photo courtesy of MAPC and David Loutzenheiser)

The Dorchester Voter Guide - Phoenix Best of '11

2011-02-23T19:44:00.002-05:00

By popular request, we have assembled a Dorchester voter guide for you:
Remember to vote: http://thephoenix.com/thebest/boston/vote/

The Dorchester Voter Guide - Phoenix Best of '11
Food and Drink
Bar, Gay (dbar)
Barbeque (Pit Stop)
Brunch (McKenna’s)
Coffee Shop, Local (Flat Black)
Food Truck (Speed’s Hot Dogs)
Ice Cream (IceCreamsmith)
Restaurant, Indian (Shanti)
Restaurant, Vietnamese (Pho Hoa)

City Life
Local Politician (Ayanna Pressley OR Marty Walsh)
Open Space (Franklin Park)
Place to Live (Dorchester)
Square (write-in campaign for Peabody Square)
Street (write-in campaign for Dorchester Ave.)

And while you are at it, vote for Dot chef, Chris Coombs (of DBar) for best new chef courtesy of Food and Wine Magazine: http://polldaddy.com/poll/4554875/

Best of Boston - Support Dot!

2011-02-22T13:10:00.011-05:00

The Boston Phoenix has done a great job this year of recognizing Dorchester in its Best of Boston poll. Now let's show the rest of the city that Dot is a hip place to live. We encourage you to go on to the poll and vote all things Dorchester. We are also up for best place to live, so if you only vote for one thing, make it that! Go and vote: http://thephoenix.com/thebest/boston/vote/

The Peabody Square Moon with a Chef Hat!

2011-01-21T13:41:00.006-05:00

A heart-warming and cute tribute to a wonderful neighbor! Read more here:
The Boston Phoenix post: Ashmont Moon Mystery: What about fried turkeys, now?
The Dorchester Reporter: Vince Droser, visionary builder and civic leader, dies suddenly
The Boston Globe post: Vince Droser; helped drive development in Boston

UPDATE: The hat has gone missing. A reward has been offered. Please read more here: Sleeping Moon tribute stolen. Help us try to find it

2nd Annual Dorchester-Milton Restaurant Week

2011-01-13T14:16:00.006-05:00

The 2nd Annual Dorchester-Milton Restaurant Week will be held from January 17–31 (excluding Fridays and Saturdays), and will again include eight spots in Dorchester and Milton. These restaurants will offer a three course dinner for $30.10 per person. We encourage you to visit Abby Park, Ashmont Grill, Blarney Stone, dbar, 88 Wharf, Ledge, Tavolo, and 224 Boston Street and take advantage of this great deal (and remember to tip your server well!).

Check out our posting from last year:
Dorchester-Milton Restaurant Week

Become a Fan of Dorchester-Milton Restaurant Week on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dorchester-Milton-Restaurant-Week-2011/157138194337641

Or read this recent article about it in the Boston Globe:
8 Is Enough

Peabody Square Tree Lighting 2010

2010-12-19T16:09:00.006-05:00

It was another amazing Peabody Square Tree Lighting ceremony. This eclectic mix of Dorchester neighbors gathered around a new attraction, the Peabody Square Moon Sculpture dressed in a amazingly fun Santa hat! It was a great night of carols and of course a visit from the Santa Trolley, while everyone enjoyed the refreshments from local businesses.

Mexican Restaurant Coming to Lower Dot

2010-12-19T15:55:00.003-05:00

We drove by this sign on Dot Ave. today for a new Mexican restaurant north of Peabody Square. We are so excited, because there are no Mexican restaurants on our side of Dot. We hope to review them soon...

Sea Breeze Mexican Grill
1782 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Located on Dorchester Avenue at the corner of Shepton Street. Just north of the Ashmont T stop and southeast of the Shawmut T stop.

Peabody Square Tree Lighting 2010

2010-11-18T18:26:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, Nov. 27th the annual Peabody Square Holiday Tree Lighting will be held around 7:30 pm. As usual Santa and Mrs. Clause will visit via a city tour trolley and holiday munchies will be provided by the Peabody Square Firehouse.

UPDATE: The festivities are scheduled begin at 7:00 and we recommend you arrive then to enjoy in all the activities!

See our post from last year: Peabody Square Tree Lighting

Dorchester Open Studios on October 23rd and 24th

2010-10-09T17:04:00.007-04:00

Every year Dorchester Open Studios showcases the best artists in our neighborhood. This year it runs from noon to 5 on Saturday 10/23 and Sunday 10/24. Check out our blog entry from 2006 for a description: Dot Open Studios 2006

Help Save the Lower Mills Library! Part 2

2010-10-08T19:21:00.006-04:00

As we had previously posted, the Trustees of the Boston Public Library are threatening to close the Lower Mills Branch. Where they should be finding ways to equally distribute the budget issues caused by the poor economy across the system, instead they are targeting a vibrant part of our community for closure. There will be an important public working session on Monday October 25 at 6:30 pm at the Lower Mills Branch (27 Richmond Street in Dorchester) and we encourage everyone to come and make their voice heard.

Peabody Square Sleeping Moon Dedication

2010-09-24T21:59:00.009-04:00

Embracing Dorchester's growing art community, the new and improved Peabody Square will include a sculpture by local artist and Ashmont Hill resident Joseph Wheelwright. Come join the mayor and Boston City Singers in celebrating this new Dorchester monument (will it rival the giant Clapp pear in Edward Everett Square? Can anything rival that pear?). The ceremony starts at 4:00 pm on Tuesday, October 26th (DATE CHANGE) and will be held at Ashmont Station Plaza at the corner Ashmont Street and Dorchester Ave.

Boston.com connects to Dot

2010-09-10T10:12:00.010-04:00

We were incredibly disappointed when the Boston Globe discontinued the City Weekly section (we must admit we even canceled our subscription over it - well that and their negative depiction of urban teachers, which is an important part of who we are). We use to love drinking a fresh brewed cup of coffee and looking over the pages describing what was going on in the other 'hoods of Beantown. However, deep down inside we have always rooted for the Globe to turn itself around. We know they have the potential and there is still nostalgia there. So we think this may be the first step...

Today, the Globe and their website boston.com have launched a new section focusing on the neighborhoods of Boston. Although not all neighborhoods are featured yet, we are excited they have realized that the suburbs are not all that makes the Boston area great. Of course, they have chosen Dorchester as one of their first neighborhoods to cover, because of its undeniable hipness and amazing diversity (and we also assume because the Globe offices are located right here in Dorchester). So check out their site and be sure to let the Globe know what you think of it.

Dorchester @ boston.com
Your Town @ boston.com

Mad Men Sundays at Tavolo

2010-08-26T21:41:00.010-04:00

Do you love the stylized sets and witty dialogue of the television program Mad Men, which follows the world surrounding early 1960s Madison Avenue? Do you wish you could go somewhere hip, imbibe 1960s styled cocktails, and pretend you were in the program? If your answer to these two questions was yes, then you must watch the rest of season 4 on Sunday nights (10 pm) at Tavolo.

The bar has been pretty packed, so make sure you arrive a little early and be prepared to dine on recipes from 1960s housewife magazines. We particularly enjoyed the spinach and artichoke dip served with historically accurate Ritz crackers and the mini egg salad sandwiches. Chris enjoyed an old fashioned (which has been for some time his favorite drink) and Erin had obviously no qualms about the tasty gimlet. For our health, it is a good thing that we don't smoke as much as they did a half century ago, but to hold you over Tavolo sometimes supplies super fun candy cigarettes.

www.tavolopizza.com
1918 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.822.1918
Located on Dochester Ave. just north of the intersection of Beale Street. Just west of the Ashmont T stop (near the southern entrance/exit).

Dorchester Declared Thriving by WGBH!

2010-08-19T23:22:00.013-04:00

It has been almost two decades since WGBH discontinued its nightly program called The Ten O'Clock News focusing on urban Boston, so we were excited when Emily Rooney's Greater Boston decided to examine why neighborhoods like Dorchester are experiencing a surge in housing sales in the middle of tough times for real estate.

Overall, we were incredibly impressed by our spokesman and Dot resident Donna Latson Gittens as she explained to the world why Dot is the place to be: community, diversity, garages, and green space! Although we usually enjoy Emily Rooney's program, we were a bit intrigued by her negative view of Dorchester (despite admitting she has not really been here) that she struggled to overcome throughout the segment (perhaps this is the Back Bay effect?). We would have expected someone with her intellect to understand that urban violence is a problem that exists throughout the city and that Dorchester (a 10-15 minute subway ride) is closer to downtown than Wellesley (a 45 minute commuter rail ride). However, the program did do a great job of explaining why new groups (they described as "a third gay, a third young people, and a third old Boston Irish") are moving into the best neighborhood of Boston. We hope Emily Rooney and Greater Boston make Donna Latson Gittens a regular visitor to their program. Watch the segment here...

Calling All Dorchester Artists

2010-08-02T19:58:00.002-04:00

The Dorchester Arts Collaborative (DAC) has an open call for participants in their 2010 Open Studios on October 23rd and 24th. Please consider registering for Open Studios. For more information, go to www.thedac.org and click on “Open Studios.” Registration before September 1st is only $40 and guarantees that your name and site location will be on the map and all collateral materials (registration after September 1st goes up to $65).

Don't Forget To Eat Your Vegetables

2010-07-17T09:21:00.013-04:00

It is farmers' market time again in Dorchester. We highly recommend forgoing your trip to the supermarket when you can buy the freshest locally grown produce at one of the three farmers' markets in Lower Dot. With locations at Ashmont/Peabody Square (which has moved to its rightful place in the plaza at the northern entrance of the new station), Milton Lower Mills Wharf (just over the bridge from Dorchester - behind the store fronts on Adams Street), and Fields Corner (in the parking lot across the street from Town Field).

Here is the schedule:
Milton Lower Mills Wharf Farmer's Market: Thursday 1-6
Ashmont/Peabody Square Farmer's Market: Friday 3-7
Fields Corner Farmer's Market: Saturdays from 9-12.

Check out our blog entry on farmers' markets from four years ago: Milton Lower Mills Wharf Farmer's Market blog entry and this Dorchester Reporter story from last week: Cookouts, Fireworks, and Farmers' Markets.

(Top photo courtesy of Ashmont/Peabody Square Farmers' Market)

Introducing "Dorchester Dottie!"

2010-07-12T17:04:00.006-04:00

There is Fenway Frank and South End Sally, and now Boston's best neighborhood (and the one where they park the off-duty boats) has its own duck boat to travel the streets of Beantown having tourists quack ridiculously at all they pass by. Introducing "Dorchester Dottie" and her lovely pink polka dotted paint job. To celebrate her maiden voyage, Ashmont Grill will be hosting a bar-b-que lunch on Saturday, August 14 from 11-2 in her honor (with all proceeds to Quack Quack Give Back Program, which contributes to the Boston Public Library and other local charities). It will include all kinds of summertime food, and yes, they will be serving duck kebabs (both humorous and a little disturbing like Charlie the Tuna). Here is the best part, meals as cheap as $5 and you can eat them aboard the new duck boat.

www.bostonducktours.com

www.ashmontgrill.com
555 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester
617.825.4300
Located in Peabody Square at the intersection of Dorchester Ave, Ashmont Street and Talbot Ave. Just north of the Ashmont T stop.

(Top photo courtesy of Dorchester Tire Service)

U2 Tribute Band to Play Dorchester Park

2010-07-02T10:43:00.001-04:00

It seems appropriate that a tribute band for Ireland's greatest rock band will hold a concert in Dorchester's greatest park. Joshua Tree, Boston's most popular U2 tribute band, will be rocking out on Thursday, July 29th at 7 pm at the baseball diamond. It is free and open to the public. Let's hope they play, "Where the Streets Have No Name." I am sure they will!

www.dotpark.org
Dorchester Park
2174 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Located on Dorchester Ave. just north of St. Gregory's Parish on Dorchester Ave. Just south or the Carney Hospital. Just west of the Cedar Grove T stop (Ashmont-Mattapan Trolley) or about 3/4 of a mile south of the Ashmont T stop.

Flatblack Ashmont Station Extends Hours

2010-06-04T16:26:00.010-04:00

Have you ever walked out of the Ashmont T station after work and craved a coffee from Flatblack, but when you walked over to the door it was closed? Well, the folks at Flatblack have a solution for you! They are extending their hours to 7 pm. Now you can sip a latte or munch on a ham and cheese croissant from 6 am to 7 pm weekdays (but still only 7-2 on Saturdays) making this an even better place to meet up friends or study in the early evening (and perhaps they will play some Radiohead over the stereo system making it near perfect).

To add to this, the Dorchester Reporter says that Flatblack is preparing the permits to have outdoor patio seating at their Ashmont location to give it a "European touch." Exciting!

www.flatblackcoffeecompany.com
1906 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.825.1440
Located in Peabody Square on Dorchester Ave. Just west of the Ashmont T stop.

Dorchester Day is Here Again!

2010-06-04T16:19:00.003-04:00

It is time once again for Dorchester Day, when the neighborhood celebrates its very own holiday. If you are new to the neighborhood then get ready for one heck of a party commemorating the founding of Dorchester as a town in 1630 (Dorchester was later annexed to Boston in 1870). The parade starts Sunday, June 6th at 1 pm in Lower Mills and heads north up Dorchester Avenue, ending at Columbia Road.

As always the Dorchester Reporter is your best bet for parade information and coverage. See you at the Dot Day parade!

Ashmont Hill Super Yard Sale This Weekend!

2010-05-19T19:36:00.004-04:00

The weather should be awesome for the best neighborhood yard sale in the United States (hands down, the best!). So, this Saturday May 22nd, head on over to Ashmont Hill from 9 am to 2 pm and enjoy sifting through all the cool stuff people have for sale. You can even stop for brunch afterward at the Ashmont Grill. Perfect.

www.ashmonthill.org
Located west of Peabody Square. Exit the northern end of the Ashmont T stop, walk up Dorchester Ave., and then turn left on Ashmont Street, follow signs to yard sales.

My Dot Tour

2010-05-12T16:24:00.002-04:00

A cool new event is happening in the 'hood this June. MyDotTour is a program that helps local teens in the community learn about Dorchester’s multicultural history. After going through this program, neighborhood kids will serve as tour guides for a tour of Fields Corner. The MyDotTour kick off event is happening on Saturday, June 5th 2010, Dorchester Day Weekend! For more info: mydorchester.org/youth/mydottour

Lower Dot's Chris Douglas Cooking for All on NECN...

2010-05-08T19:29:00.013-04:00

Dorchester executive chef Chris Douglas (of Ashmont Grill and Tavolo) made an appearance on Billy Costa's TV Diner (on NECN) this week, where he taught us how to make a sweet and savory duck salad. If you missed it, here it is...

Brother's Crawfish

2010-05-06T20:14:00.005-04:00

Word on the street is that there is a new Asian-Cajun fusion restaurant in the Fields Corner section of Lower Dot (You heard me right, Asian-Cajun fusion!). Brother's Crawfish has recently opened their doors on Adams Street and if it is up to our standards we will be reviewing them soon...

www.brotherscrawfish.com
272 Adams Street, Dorchester
617.265.1100
Located on Adams Street at the corner of Park Street. Just east of the Fields Corner T stop.

Help Save the Lower Mills Library!

2010-04-10T15:22:00.006-04:00

The Trustees of the Boston Public Library have made a purposeful choice to close the Lower Mills library (and branches in East Boston, Brighton, and South Boston) and we are asking that as community members you take action to help prevent this from happening. In Lower Mills, the library serves such an important role as place for both education and community building and closing it jeopardizes the centerpiece of this section of the neighborhood, one that has existed since 1875.

What can you do:
1. Attend the benefit at Ledge (2261 Dorchester Avenue) on Wednesday, April 14th at 6 pm. Cost is $15. Call Vic Campbell at 617.822.4046 for more information.
2. Go to the Lower Mills Library and find out how to sign the petition.
3. Write the mayor, our city councilors, and state representatives to tell them your personal stories about the Lower Mills library.

For more info read: the Dorchester Reporter Story with Video.

Easter Egg Hunt at Ashmont Grill

2010-03-29T17:25:00.005-04:00

Ashmont Grill will be holding an Easter egg hunt on April 4th at 10 am. They say come one come all. It sounds like fun...

We are unsure of the date of the annual Easter egg hunt at Dot Park. We will let you know if we get any details. Happy Easter!

Peabody Square Tree Lighting

2010-02-20T19:40:00.006-05:00

We forgot to post these pictures, but here is the Peabody Square Tree Lighting in December 2009! Better late than never. Happy holidays!

Dorchester-Milton Restaurant Week

2009-12-24T22:19:00.010-05:00

Nine of the finest restaurants in Dorchester (and neighboring Milton) have grouped together for a Dorchester-Milton Restaurant Week from January 17th to the 31st (excluding Fridays and Saturdays). They will offer three course pre-fixe dinners for $30.10, as well as their regular menu items.

Check out their websites for more information:
224 Boston Street
88 Wharf
Abby Park
Ashmont Grill
Blarney Stone
dbar
Dot 2 Dot
Ledge
Tavolo

(Photos: Top - The crab cakes at Ledge. Bottom - Interior of the Ashmont Grill)

Pat's Pizza

2009-12-06T14:09:00.008-05:00

When you walk in this place, it is classic Dorchester! From construction workers on their way home to hipsters getting ready for a night out, Pat's is a Lower Dot staple and offers the finest pizza and subs around. Whether it is a Super Bowl party or a night you just don't feel like cooking, Pat's always offers cheap, fast, and kind service. Chris loves the (only found in New England) steak bomb sub (pictured below), where the steak, cheese, mushrooms, onions, and peppers blend into a comfort food dream. Erin loves a slice of the traditional peperoni pizza.

www.patspizzaoflowermills.com
2254 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester
Located on Dorchester Ave. Just north of the Milton T stop (Ashmont-Mattapan Trolley).

Have you been to Pat's Pizza? Rate it below.

It Is Time For Sushi to Come to Lower Dot!

2009-11-01T12:16:00.014-05:00

Calling all local restaurateurs! There is one major thing missing on the Dorchester dining scene, and that is sushi! Here is the evidence as to why we believe the opening of a sushi restaurant will be a gold mine for whomever is willing to take up the challenge.

First, it is obvious that Dorchesterites have the gourmet tastes to support not just one, but probably multiple sushi restaurants. Almost everyone we know in Dorchester eats sushi, yet all of us have to travel downtown to get it. Sushi restaurants are no longer exclusively for the most affluent communities.

Second, out of any neighborhood in the city, Dorchester has the most perspective restaurant patrons. With our 92,000 residents and the fact that on the weekends you almost always have to wait for a table, it is clear that Dot could use more dinning options.

Third, the nearest sushi restaurants according to Yelp! and Google Maps are located all the way in East Milton Square (Ichiro Sushi, pictured below) and Jamaica Plain (JP Seafood Cafe). Both of which are far beyond walking distance or public transit from Dot.

Fourth, Dorchester is one of the few neighborhoods in the city without a sushi restaurant. Jamaica Plain, Roslindale, South Boston all have sushi restaurants and of course Allston-Brighton and the South End have multiple.

Now we do realize that there has been a proposed sushi and sports bar establishment for Upper Dot (Van's in Savin Hill), which has been in the planning stages for some time now. Although we are quite excited for its opening, we would suggest there is still a need for sushi somewhere in Lower Dot, perhaps even a small establishment in Peabody Square, Lower Mills, or Fields Corner? The gauntlet has been dropped!

Patriots Tailgate Menu at Tavolo

2009-10-10T17:07:00.016-04:00

How good does this combination sound? Gourmet comfort food, tasty beer, and watching the Pats win another game with a pretty swell crowd. Well that is what you can get at Tavolo, while they are running this Patriots game day special. When we went, Chris had the "Not Your Mother's Chili" matched with Harpoon's Leviathan and Erin had the meatball sliders with provolone and marinara on a corn bun accompanied by a raspberry ale. Delicious! The details: For $20 you get two Harpoon beers and one dish from their "tailgate menu" and Tavolo is now open every Sunday at noon.

Check out our blog entry from last year for a description: Tavolo

www.tavolopizza.com
1918 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.822.1918
Located on Dochester Ave. just north of the intersection of Beale Street. Just west of the Ashmont T stop (near the southern entrance/exit).

Dorchester Open Studios 2009

2009-10-09T16:37:00.005-04:00

Every year Dorchester Open Studios showcases the best artists in our neighborhood. This year it runs from noon to 5 on Saturday 10/24 and Sunday 10/25. Check out our blog entry from two years ago for a description: Dot Open Studios 2006

Vietnamese and Irish Festivals in Dot

2009-10-09T16:19:00.007-04:00

This weekend is a great one for celebrating our neighborhood's diversity by attending both of the scheduled ethnic festivals. On Saturday at Town Field in Fields Corner, you can attend the annual Tết Trung Thu (August Moon Festival), which takes place from 3-8 pm. Then on Sunday head on over to Adams Corner for the all-day Irish Heritage Festival. Both will include plenty of food, music, and celebration.

Here are their websites for more info:
Tết Trung Thu (English Translation)
Irish Heritage Festival

ADORE-chester! Top 5 Bites in Dorchester

2009-10-03T20:30:00.004-04:00

One of the best things about Dorchester is the quality and diversity of restaurants. The food is authentic in flavor and represents the passion, community, and culture that are at the heart of our neighborhood. As part of the ADORE-chester! blog project, we lay out our top five choices of dishes from around the neighborhood (and five more we couldn’t help but also list) as we continue on our journey, eating our way through Dorchester.

My top five bites in Dorchester (in no particular order):
These are the MUST tries if you haven’t already

1. Fried chicken wings from Mrs. Jones
2. Ginger ice cream from the Ice Creamsmith
3. Tiramisu dessert from Tavolo
4. Grilled beef bahn mi from Ba-Le
5. Any martini from dbar

Tier Two (in no particular order):
These are the highly suggested if you haven’t tried already

6. Trainwreck fries from Ashmont Grill
7. Homemade ginger beer from Irie Jamaican Style Restaurant
8. Ham and cheese croissant (baked by Sel de la Terre) with latte from Flat Black
9. Poulet en sauce from Belle Cuisine
10. Dim sum at Chau Chow Seafood

UPDATE 10/4/09:
And by request, here are our top 5 drinks in Dot! (in no particular order)

1. Dotini at the Ashmont Grill. Seriously Dorchester's own drink, with a side of candy.
2. Mojitos at the Blarney Stone - One of the best we have ever had.
3. Grapefruit-Infused Basil Gimlet at Tavolo. Feel like you are on Mad Men while still living in the 2000s.
4. Espresso Martini at dbar. Coffee and liquor - what is there not to love about that?
5. A pint of Guinness at the Banshee. Transport yourself to Ireland for a moment.

To read the other ADORE-chester! postings, please check out their blogs:
The Dorchester Think Tank
The Dottie Hottie
The Dot Matrix
Dot Boston
Local Spice
Candeliera Silva
Social Butterfly Experiment
dotmass
Greening of Dorchester

Boston's Barista Competition Will Take Place in Lower Dot

2009-10-03T11:11:00.013-04:00

Peabody Square is the host of Boston's first annual Barista competition. On October 24th, numerous coffee shops from around the city will be competing for the crown of the White Chrome Barista Throwdown. This competition, located at Flat Black Coffee Company and then Tavolo, will include events in coffee knowledge, latte art, and drink creation, with celebrity judges. It is open to the public and there will be free lattes during the practice rounds and free coffee during the demonstration period. For more information, go to www.flatblackcoffeecompany.com. Good luck Flat Black!

White Chrome Barista Throwdown Hosted By Flat Black Coffee Company and Tavolo
1906 Dorchester Ave./1918 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester
Located on Dochester Ave. just north of the intersection of Beale Street. Just west of the Ashmont T stop (near the southern entrance/exit).

If you can't make it there will be live streaming video at: www.ustream.tv/channel/whitecrome.

88 Wharf Riverfront Grill

2009-09-13T21:25:00.007-04:00

You may think you are walking into a condominium complex, but in fact it is the latest gourmet restaurant to open up near Lower Dot, just over the river in Milton Village. 88 Wharf Riverfront Grill is an upscale restaurant with both indoor seating and tables on the patio, which overlook the town wharf. Chris enjoyed the well-cooked Steak-Frites, while Erin had the salmon with potatoes and spinach, which was delicious. It is fantastic that Milton Village has followed the lead of Dorchester with a new eatery, which includes Milton's first restaurant with a liquor license.

www.88wharf.com
88 Wharf St., Milton
Located in Milton Village (Across the river from Dorchester Lower Mills) off of Adams Street. Just south of the Milton T Stop (Ashmont-Mattapan Trolley).

Have you been to 88 Wharf Riverfront Grill? Rate it below.

Ledge

2009-08-22T16:35:00.006-04:00

The newest eatery to open in Lower Dot, it offers another upscale dining option to the neighborhood. Erin had the broiled crab cakes on top of mixed greens which were large and tasty and accompanied by a strong mustard aioli. Chris had the hanger steak with caramelized shallot blue cheese butter sauce and a side of sweet potato fries and herbed orzo. The sauce was an excellent compliment to the well-cooked steak's flavor. We did not have the most desirable seats, right next to the crowded bar, but this is expected when a restaurant first opens. The restaurant interior is hip and modern, and the many televisions in the bar area are almost overwhelming. It would be a great place to catch a Sox playoff game. The back patio is large and offers a separate bar, we can't wait to go back an enjoy it on a warm fall evening.

www.ledgeboston.com
2261 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester
Located on Dorchester Ave. Just north of the Milton T stop (Ashmont-Mattapan Trolley).

Have you been to Ledge? Rate it below.

88 Wharf Riverfront Grill Now Open

2009-08-14T12:57:00.007-04:00

Somehow we missed the opening of a new restaurant just over the river from Lower Dot. We were just informed that 88 Wharf Riverfront Grill, a new contemporary American restaurant in the Milton Landing building, not only is open for business, but also has patio seating overlooking the Neponset River and the town of Milton's first restaurant liquor license. I guess we have another place to visit real soon. If the restaurant is up to Lower Dot expectations then expect a review in the next month or so. Until then consider checking them out and let us know what you think.

Ledge Now Open

2009-08-13T13:20:00.007-04:00

People have been writing in to let us know that Ledge, a new restaurant and bar in Lower Mills, has officially opened. We are still suffering some jet lag from a trip to Japan, so we may take advantage of this and check the place out in the next few days. If the restaurant is up to Lower Dot expectations then expect a review in the next week or so. Until then consider checking them out and let us know what you think.

Time For Awesome Fresh Vegetables in Lower Dot!

2009-07-01T19:17:00.006-04:00

This year there is a third farmer's market being added to Lower Dot! The newest addition will be Fridays from 3-7 at the ODWIN Learning Center parking lot (1943 Dorchester Ave.) across from the new Carruth Building. Next year it will move to the northern entrance of Ashmont station in Peabody Square. There are of course the two classic farmer's markets at Milton Village (just over the bridge from Dorchester - behind the store fronts on Adams Street), which takes place every Thursday from 1-6 and Fields Corner, which takes place in the parking lot across the street from Town Field on Saturdays from 9-12. Erin and Chris will also be enjoying their farm share this year from Dorchester's own Re-Vision Farm.

Check out our blog entry on farmer's markets from three years ago: Milton Lower Mills Wharf Farmer's Market blog entry

Click here for more info on the Ashmont/Peabody Square Farmer's Market

Click here for more info on the Milton Lower Mills Wharf Farmer's Market

Click here for more info on the Fields Corner Farmer's Market

Design and Architecture Festival at Ashmont

2009-06-19T06:57:00.007-04:00

This weekend numerous events related to the Common Boston design
and architecture festival are happening in Lower Dot. There are neighborhood tours, opening buildings, a photo exhibit at the Ashmont T station, Dot Bike tours, food tours, and lectures going on throughout the neighborhood. It's all free and open to everyone and the Boston Society of Architects are really trying to get the whole community involved.

For a schedule and more information: Common Boston

Arts in the Park Day 2009

2009-05-09T15:13:00.014-04:00

Submissions are now being accepted for the first annual Arts in the Park Day at Dorchester Park. The outdoor arts festival will be held on Saturday, June 6th from 11 am to 3 pm. It is a juried show for all media. Contact penn1957@comcast.net or go to www.thedac.org for more information.

This post's artwork is from Ashmont Hill artist Shane Ruff. For information on his work, see this recent Dorchester Reporter article: Ruff Styles or his website: Ruff Studio.

Top is a proposed pubic art installation and below are titled "Dot over U 3" and "Dream in Black & White" respectively

Eating and Biking Events in Dot

2009-04-14T01:25:00.009-04:00

If you like food and/or biking, there are two awesome events coming up in Dorchester!

The First Annual Taste of Dorchester is Thursday, April 30 from 6-9 at the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers on Freeport Street. For $30 (or $40 at the door), you can chow down on every single awesome Dot restaurant in one sitting! It includes the likes of Ashmont Grille, Tavolo, Irie Jamaican Restaurant, Flames, dbar, Dot-2-Dot, Pat's Pizza, Chau Chow, Big Moe's M&M Ribs, Shanti, Saigon Seafood, and you can top it off with The Ice Creamsmith. There are so many more, we don't have to room to name them all... Taste of Dorchester

When you have recuperated, get on your bike on April 25th at 12:30 p.m. at the entrance to the Franklin Park Zoo and and ride with DotBike on the 'Shiny Green Dot Ride.' Enjoy the ride, while burning off all those calories you gained from the Taste of Dorchester! For more information: Dot Bike

Belle Cuisine Haitian Restaurant

2009-03-20T17:11:00.008-04:00

UPDATE: Belle Cuisine now closed. In its former location is now Brother's Crawfish. Please see our post.

With the broadcasting of Haitian television and the sounds of Creole being spoken by the patrons, you will think you have been transported to the Caribbean. The wonderful smells of rice and beans and the welcoming owners make this small and unassuming new Haitian restaurant in Fields Corner a hidden gem. Erin ordered the Poulet en Sauce (chicken and sauce) plate with Du riz Blanc (white rice with peas and seasonings) and a side of plantains. Chris got the turkey and sauce, Du riz cole (rice with beans) and plantains. Everything was full of great flavors that complimented and combined for a great dinner. You can take out or eat in... Bon Appétit.

Belle Cuisine Restaurant
272 Adams St., Dorchester
617.379.2415
Located in Fields Corner near the intersection of Adams Street and Park Street. Just east of the Fields Corner T stop.

Have you been to Belle Cuisine? Rate it below.

Shepard Fairey Puts Up Public Art in Dot

2009-03-20T08:36:00.007-04:00

For a very short time period, controversial artist Shepard Fairey posted a billboard (legally) on Hoyt Street and Dorchester Ave. The Dorchester Reporter said it was paid for by the Institute of Contemporary Art and that Fairey’s trademark Andre the Giant image can be seen on the image. Pretty cool...

Dot on TV Diner

2009-03-10T18:11:00.008-04:00

Billy Costa's TV Diner on NECN did their entire episode last week on Dorchester! This completely edges them ahead of Phantom Gourmet in our books...

Click here for the clips: Ashmont Grill, Shanti, dbar, Restaurant Laura.

Ashmont/Peabody Square Station

2009-01-22T07:59:00.000-05:00

The Boston Globe reports this morning in a story about the Science Park station that the MBTA will be adding "Peabody Square" to Ashmont Station. We knew there was support for this in the neighborhood, but had not heard it was actually going to happen. Pretty neat!

"For the MBTA, the bestowing of a secondary local name to stations is becoming increasingly common as a part of other, larger renovations. The designation Boston Public Library was added to the local signs on the Green Line at Copley Station. On the Red Line, the label Peabody Square was added to signs at Ashmont Station."

Click here for the full story: The MBTA gives a nod to the old West End

Hope in the Hood Ball @ Tavolo

2009-01-10T10:15:00.010-05:00

Hope in the Hood Ball! Join other Dorchesterites as they celebrate President-Elect Obama's historic inaugruation on January 20th at Tavolo in Peabody Square. There will be a DJ, cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, music and dancing. Their website says, "dress to impress at our 'creative' black tie event and be sure to get you picture taken with the the Choice for Change himself." The cost is $20 per person at the door. For more information click here.

www.tavolopizza.com
1918 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.822.1918
Located on Dochester Ave. just north of the intersection of Beale Street. Just west of the Ashmont T stop (near the southern entrance/exit).

Peabody Square Tree Lighting 2008

2008-11-28T10:11:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, Nov. 29th the annual Peabody Square Holiday Tree Lighting will be held at 7 pm. As usual Santa and Mrs. Clause will visit via a city tour trolley and holiday munchies will be provided by the Peabody Square Firehouse.

Check out our post from last year: Peabody Square Tree Lighting 2007

DotPark2 and Lower Mills Merchant Holiday Stroll

2008-10-29T22:05:00.003-04:00

On November 10th the Dorchester Park Association will be holding DotPark2, a fundraiser to support the Dorchester Park maintainance of the urban forest. It will be held at Tavolo. For more information and tickets: http://dotpark.org/dotpark2.htm

On November 13th from 6-8 pm, the Lower Mills Civic Association and Lower Mills Merchant's Association will be sponsoring the First Annual Lower Mills Holiday Stroll. Over 30 participating shops in Lower Mills will be offering discounts, giveaways, and exhibits. The fun begins at St. Greg's Auditorium, where you can pick up your eco-shopping bag, food, live music, and raffle.

Martinis on the Avenue: Dotini Election Special

2008-10-25T13:00:00.004-04:00

"Martinis on the Avenue", which is now in its fourth year, is an annual fund-raiser for the Fields Corner and St. Mark's Main Streets. $30 in advance or $35 at the door, including the Blarney’s famous hors d'oeuvres, a live auction and taste the new "Presiden-Tini." And of course, you can still get a Dotini, Dorchester's unofficial cocktail!

www.fieldscorner.org/events
Martinis on the Avenue: Dotini Election Special Featuring the Presiden-tini
@ The Blarney Stone (Tuesday 10.30.08 @ 7 PM)
1505 Dorchester Avenue. Dorchester
617.436.8223
Located in Fields Corner on Dorchester Ave. Just south of the Fields Corner T stop.

Wainwright Bank and Flat Black in The Carruth

2008-10-20T20:46:00.013-04:00

The new Flat Black Coffee Shop and Wainwright Bank are finally open in the Carruth! We checked out the bank and the employees were very nice and the ATM works well. They also have a socially progressive mission, which makes opening up an account all the better. We also visited the new Flat Black cafe inside the bank, and it was great. The coffee continues to be high quality and their pastries were excellent (word on the street is that are from Sel de la Terre). They will also be offering free wi-fi if you want to check your e-mail. It is a great addition to Peabody Square.

www.wainwrightbank.com
www.flatblackcoffeecompany.com
1906 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.825.1440
Located in Peabody Square on Dorchester Ave. Just west of the Ashmont T stop.

Have you been to Wainwright Bank & Flat Black in The Carruth? Rate it below.

Dorchester Open Studios Next Weekend

2008-10-18T15:27:00.005-04:00

It is time again for Dorchester Open Studios! Dorchester Open Studios showcases the best artists in our neighborhood. Check out our blog entry from two years ago for a description: Dot Open Studios 2006

www.thedac.org
Dorchester Open Studios 2008 (Saturday 10.26.08 and Sunday 10.27.08)
12-5 PM

Lower Dot Locations:
Walter Baker Artists Lofts
1231 Adams Street, Dorchester
617.436.8223
Located in Lower Mills on Adams Street. Just north of the Milton T stop (Mattapan-Ashmont Trolley).

The Boston Home
2049 Dorchester Avenue. Dorchester
Located on Dorchester Ave. Just south of the Ashmont T stop.

Tết Trung Thu

2008-09-13T19:37:00.003-04:00

Over a hundred people attended the first annual Tết Trung Thu - Vietnamese Harvest Festival at Dorchester Park this year. The festival begin with Vietnamese music and an opening ceremony, followed by dragon dances and traditional drums and percussion. Celebrants brought homemade lanterns or purchased some there, and after sundown they were lit and followed by a procession. Everyone also enjoyed the traditional moon cakes.

Dorchester Symphony Orchestra Debut

2008-09-05T16:07:00.005-04:00

The Dorchester Symphony Orchestra (DSO) debuts this month at All Saints Church near Ashmont Station. The program of two symphonies including works of Mozart, Beethoven, and Hayden, is scheduled for September 20th at 7 pm.

www.dorchestersymphony.org
617.822.3979

www.allsaints.net
All Saints Church
209 Ashmont Street, Dorchester

Located on Ashmont Street. just east of the intersection of Dorchester Ave. Just northeast of the Ashmont T stop (near the northern entrance/exit).

Tết Trung Thu - Vietnamese Harvest Festival At Dorchester Park

2008-09-05T15:46:00.004-04:00

The first annual Tết Trung Thu Festival will be held Saturday, September 13th at Dorchester Park from 6-8 pm. Tết Trung Thu is a Vietnamese traditional holiday that celebrates harvest. The celebration will include lanterns, singing, and moon cakes.

Tavolo

2008-08-15T18:19:00.005-04:00

It's new, stylish, yet unpretentious in their attempt at Italian food for the modern eater. Aside from the chalk-artwork in the dining area, our favorite part is the bar. It hosts a large U-shaped bar made out of slate where the friendly bartenders write your names down and offers you chalk to play with your own artistic abilities. Look up and you'll see the three flat screen TVs and light fixtures made out of small drink bottles. The food is standard Italian - Erin had the Arugula pizza with prosciutto and Chris had the cheesy pasta with funghi and mortadella. They offer a build-your-own anitpasti platter which we are very excited to try next time. The cherry citrus biscotti should not be passed up, perhaps made by the same baker that does the desserts for the Ashmont Grill? We look forward to making Tavolo a regular afterwork stop. Some other perks include: espresso drinks, bar open 'til 11pm, and offer take-out.

www.tavolopizza.com
1918 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.822.1918
Located on Dochester Ave. just north of the intersection of Beale Street. Just west of the Ashmont T stop (near the southern entrance/exit).

Have you been to Tavolo? Rate it below.

Tavolo Opens August 9th

2008-08-08T18:01:00.007-04:00

Word on the street is that Chris Douglass opens his third restaurant Tavolo tomorrow. It is located in the new Carruth Building adjacent to Ashmont Station on the red line. If the restaurant is up to Lower Dot expectations then expect a review in the next few weeks. Until then consider checking them out and let us know what you think.

News: Co-op Houses Become Popular in Lower Dot

2008-08-07T16:16:00.007-04:00

(Photo courtesy of Chris Lovett)

Joining other urban areas such as San Francisco and Brooklyn, the Boston Globe reports that co-op houses are becoming very popular in certain neighborhoods of the Boston, including Fields Corner in Dorchester. Co-op houses are hip these days with high rents and living costs, especially with the under 35 crowd (although the article also highlights a co-op for people over 50 and one resident in The Big Top Co-op in Dorchester who has been living there for 25 years). Co-ops are essentially urban communes, where residents pool money for rent, heating, and food. The triple-decker commonly found throughout Dorchester appears to be "the" building for co-ops and many are quite able to use the small urban back yard to grow vegtables and gardens.

The Boston Globe August 2, 2008 Article: Cheaper by the Dozen

Summer Is the Time for Lower Dot Farmer's Markets...

2008-07-24T09:52:00.007-04:00

There are two farmer's markets in Lower Dot! The Milton Village Farmer's Market (just over the bridge from Dorchester - behind the store fronts on Adams Street) takes place every Thursday from 1 - 6. The Fields Corner Farmer's Market takes place in the Orlando's Food Basket parking lot on Saturdays from 9 - noon. Check out our blog entry from two years ago: Milton Lower Mills Wharf Farmer's Market blog entry

For the Milton Lower Mills Wharf Farmer's Market: Milton Lower Mills Wharf Farmer's Market

For the Fields Corner Farmers Market: Fields Corner Farmer's Market

Wine Club at the Ashmont Grill

2008-07-21T17:52:00.005-04:00

We finally made it to the much acclaimed "Monday Night Wine Club" at the Ashmont Grill. Wine Club offers a four-course meal paired with four wines (and on occasion beer...). We went on Portugal wines night and enjoyed a wonderful meal with Portugese flavored dishes such as bacalhau (salted codfish), clams, grilled beef, and o bolo de chocolate (decadent chocolate cake). Along with each dish is served a wine with a description. The wine flowed, Erin couldn't finish it all, but Chris did. Wine Club tries to create a social atmosphere so you may get seated with other guests, but it seemed inconsistent. (It might be nice if they gave you the choice...) Wine Club starts at 6:30pm on Mondays and costs $30.

Check out our blog entry from two years ago for a description: Ashmont Grill

www.ashmontgrill.com
555 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester
617.825.4300
Located in Peabody Square at the intersection of Dorchester Ave, Ashmont Street and Talbot Ave. Just north of the Ashmont T stop.

News: Haitian Restaurant Opens in Fields Corner

2008-07-16T16:26:00.004-04:00

We love Haitian food, so it is great news that a new Haitian restaurant called Belle Cuisine is now open in Lower Dot. The Dorchester Reporter says that the restaurant is owned and run by Antoine Dorcena, a former Boston University cook and owner of a catering business called Leave It To Us. If the restaurant is up to Lower Dot expectations then expect a review in the next few months. Until then consider checking them out and let us know what you think.

Belle Cuisine
272 Adams Street, Dorchester
Located on Adams Street near the intersection of Adams Street and Lincoln Street. Just east of the Fields Corner T stop.

Lower Mills Library

2008-07-09T13:20:00.009-04:00

The Lower Mills branch of the Boston Public Library has many activities going on this summer. We hope to review the library soon, but until then here is a link to their Summer Flyer. Lower Mills Library Summer Handout and Lower Mills Library July Calendar.

www.bpl.org/branches/lower.htm
617.298.7841
27 Richmond Street, Dorchester
Located on Richmond Street. Just north of the Milton T stop (Ashmont-Mattapan Trolley).

Lower Dot gets a new URL: www.lowerdot.com

2008-07-05T10:50:00.006-04:00

Our Lower Dot blog now has a new url address! You can type "www.lowerdot.com" into your favorite browser and it will redirect you to our blog... Happy web-surfing.

Update/News: New Restaurant Coming to Lower Mills

2008-06-21T15:15:00.004-04:00

The Dorchester Reporter has reported that two brothers originally from Ireland have purchased Donovan's Village Tavern and Restaurant and are going to convert it into "The Ledge" restaurant and bar, which will serve "standard American food, such as burgers, fish and chips and chicken, for a lunch and dinner crowd". The brothers are planning a major renovation of the establishment. Currently there are two separate entrances and rooms, one for the bar and one for the restaurant. The renovations will include making the restaurant and bar one room with one entrance, creating an outdoor patio with a seasonal bar, and bringing in a new chef. Stay tuned for updates on this...

Anh Hổng Vietnamese Restaurant

2008-06-19T21:34:00.009-04:00

We knew of the wonders of Anh Hổng before we even moved to Dorchester. This place has perhaps the best Vietnamese food in the city (don't insult us by saying Pho Pasteur is the best around - try this place and you will never eat there again). Although the decor is not hip or trendy, it certainly is authentic and the prices are incredibly reasonable. On a cold winter day nothing beats a hot giant bowl of their phở. If it is hot out, then the Vietnamese spring rolls are a must. They are light, fresh, and served with a great peanut sauce. If you want fine dining try the bò 7 món (seven meals of beef), but just be prepared to fast for a few days before you go because this is more beef than any human should eat.

291 Adams Street, Dorchester
617.265.8889
Located on Adams Street at the corner of Park Street. Just east of the Fields Corner T stop.

Have you been to Anh Hổng? Rate it below.

Dorchester Park: Family Fun Day

2008-06-14T22:43:00.005-04:00

The annual Family Fun Day at Dorchester Park will be held on Sunday July 13th, 2008 starting at noon. It will include a a cookout, face painting, children's games, and a softball game between the Boston Police Department District C-11 and the Dorchester Board of Trade.

www.dotpark.org
Dorchester Park
2174 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
Located on Dorchester Ave. just north of St. Gregory's Parish on Dorchester Ave. Just south or the Carney Hospital. Just west of the Cedar Grove T stop (Ashmont-Mattapan Trolley) or about 3/4 miles south of the Ashmont T stop.

Dorchester Day Parade 2008

2008-05-27T20:11:00.002-04:00

It is time once again for the Dorchester Day Parade. For those of you that don't know about it, Dorchester Day celebrates the incorporation of Dorchester as a town in 1630. Although Dorchester became part of the city of Boston in 1870, the Dorchester Day Parade has for over a hundred years celebrated the uniqueness of the neighborhood, inviting the city to come and enjoy the festivities. It will start from Lower Mills at 1 p.m. on Sunday June 1st, 2008 and proceed north up Dorchester Ave.

Check out our review of Dorchester Day 2007:
Dot Day 2007

Our New Adventure in Blogging: The Dorchester Think Tank

2008-05-17T17:39:00.008-04:00

Just over two years ago we started the Lower Dot blog to showcase the great things happening in our neighborhood. It was intended to highlight the best of the best. After the popularity of our first blog, we have decided to start a second Dorchester blog that will this time create a forum to highlight those things in the neighborhood that could use improvement or should be commended as examples for others to emulate. We also intend it as an interactive blog allowing people from the neighborhood to suggest things they think would make our neighborhood continue in a positive direction and perhaps a place for people investing in the neighborhood to get a better idea of the community's needs.

Features include:
-Interactive thumbs up/thumbs down ratings for each entry
-An e-mail address to contact with your ideas
-Links to local community organizations

We would like to introduce to you, the Dorchester Think Tank:
dorchesterthinktank.blogspot.com

Dot-2-Dot Cafe

2008-05-16T21:17:00.007-04:00

We just couldn't wait to visit the newly opened Dot-2-Dot Cafe! We went on the second day they opened for brunch. Erin ate a slice of the quiche which was wonderfully flavored accompanied by a flaky crust. Chris had the special pancakes made with feta cheese, sundried tomatoes and spinach. Although the menu seemed limited on our visit, it changes daily along with the fresh baked bread made by the chef-owner. The cafe is clean and friendly, displays works by local artists on its walls, and has free wifi... a wonderful addition to Dorchester Ave.

www.dot2dotcafe.com
1739 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.938.9342
Located on the edge of Melville Park just south of St. Mark's Parish on Dorchester Ave. Just southeast of the Shawmut T stop.

Have you been to Dot-2-Dot Cafe? Rate it below.

Peabody Square on Channel 5's Chronicle - May 7th

2008-05-06T07:34:00.007-04:00

WCVB TV's award-winning news magazine Chronicle will feature an episode about Dorchester's Peabody Square. The show will air this Wednesday, May 7, at 7:30 PM on Channel 5. Tune in for business profiles, a tour of the Carruth building, a lesson in antique timekeeping by one of the Square's official clock winders, and more.

Dot-2-Dot Opening Saturday

2008-05-01T20:19:00.006-04:00

St. Mark's Main Streets reports that Dot-2-Dot Cafe will open on Saturday, May 3rd. It is located at 1739 Dorchester Ave. Also mentioned was that "owner Karen Henry-Garrett, a Cordon-Bleu-trained chef and local resident, will be serving up everything from coffee & pastries to cuisines from around the world, in a menu that changes daily." We hope to review it on the blog next month.

Their website its at: www.dot2dotcafe.com

The Blarney Stone

2008-04-20T11:01:00.011-04:00

Most people in the neighborhood already know The Blarney Stone. This former Irish Pub (where Guinness allegedly was first served in America) turned hip and trendy restaurant and bar a few years ago. It is always packed on a Friday night and the reason is the great food and atmosphere. It makes up the third restaurant in what we like to refer to as Dorchester's Big Three (including dbar and the Ashmont Grill). Erin loves the crab cake sandwich and the spicy salty calamari. Chris enjoys the grilled bbq steak tips. The mini-burgers also get an honorable mention because you can taste the flavor of grill in each bite!

www.blarneystoneboston.com
1505 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.436.8223
Located in Fields Corner just north of the intersection of Park Street and Dorchester Ave. Just south of the Fields Corner T stop.

Have you been to The Blarney Stone? Rate it below.

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News: Things Are Happening in Lower Mills

2008-04-12T09:14:00.009-04:00

You may think all the new restaurants and shops are only coming to Peabody Square and Fields Corner, but Lower Mills is showing it should not be left out. The Dorchester Reporter reports that major projects are in the works for this section of the neighborhood. This includes two restaurants on the Milton side of the river. The first will be a gourmet restaurant in the first floor of the Milton Landing condos overlooking the Neponset River, while the second will be a more casual hip establishment modeled after the Ashmont Grill and the Blarney Stone located on the ground floor of a new development (pictured above) to be built on the parking lot of the storage company next to the Milton Trolley stop. This development will also include offices for UMass Boston's environmental science department. Meanwhile WinnCompanies (the company that manages The Carruth) continues to finish condominiums in the former Baker Chocolate Factory and a local developer starts work on the wooden mill buildings that sit across the street, converting them in condos and restoring the picturesque wooden footbridge over the river.

The Dorchester Reporter April 10, 2008 Article: "Historic Lower Mills is all abuzz with talk of new developments"

Osaka Shabu

2008-04-09T19:21:00.011-04:00

Although they have not begun advertising yet, Osaka Shabu has been open about a week and we had to go check it out. We ordered beef and seafood shabu-shabu, which came with the prepared raw meats and a large plate of fresh vegetables for cooking in the boiling broth. We chose the spicy Szechuan broth, which was excellent. The inside has been recently renovated and is still waiting to be fully decorated, but the food and service was welcoming. Go try it out for yourselves!

203 Adams Street, Dorchester
617.288.8889
Located in Fields Corner just north of the intersection of Dorchester Ave. and Adams St. Just north of the Fields Corner T stop.

Have you been to Osaka Shabu? Rate it below.

News: Upcoming Food Ventures in Lower Dot

2008-04-05T17:23:00.010-04:00

Dot-to-Dot Cafe has their sign up (see above) and has begun interior construction! It is located on Dorchester Ave. in the block just south of St. Mark's Church on the same side of the street.

The first Japanese-food eatery to serve Lower Dot: Coming very soon is a Japanese Shabu-shabu restaurant to where Chan O'Mally's once served Chinese take-out food. Under the same management, they're changing to a sit-down restaurant where diners cook their meal in boiling broth at their tables.

An independent convenience store is taking the place of the Lil' Peach on Washington Street in Lower Mills. Set to open up in a couple of months, they hope to sell some wine, Mediterranean items (olive oil, greek olives), perhaps organic food as well. They are planning to have a patio with some chairs and umbrellas.

And you may have noticed that we have expanded our blog to include the Fields Corner section of Dorchester.

Ashmont Hill Yardsale

2008-04-04T19:38:00.002-04:00

The annual Ashmont Hill Yard Sale will be held on Saturday May 17th.

To see our blog entry from last year: Ashmont Hill Yard Sale

For more information go to the Ashmont Hill Neighborhood Association.

Easter Egg Hunt This Weekend at Dot Park

2008-03-21T10:24:00.002-04:00

The annual Dorchester Park easter egg hunt is this Saturday (March 22, 2008) at 10 am at the tennis courts. It is great fun for children and families, and is free and open to the public.

For our blog entry from last year:
Dorchester Park Easter Egg Hunt

Upper Dot Adventure: Shanti

2008-03-15T17:43:00.010-04:00

One of the best Indian restaurants in the city makes its home here in Dorchester! Shanti is located in the Savin Hill section of the neighborhood and offers both a great atmosphere and a fairly-priced wide-variety of cuisine. The Naan (which comes in several different types) is a must and the perfectly fried Samosas are perfectly prepared. Erin loves the wonderfully marinated Tandoori Chicken, while Chris prefers the Goat Gosht Curry, but almost everything on the menu is definitely worth a try. They have a great beer and wine selection, and the wait staff is excellent.

www.shantiboston.com
1111 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester
617.929.3900
Located in Savin Hill at the intersection of Dorchester Ave, and Savin Hill Avennue. Just west of the Savin Hill T stop.

Have you been to Shanti? Rate it below.

The Carruth Near Completion

2008-03-11T18:19:00.008-04:00

The Carruth building is near completion. The transit-oriented development will include condominiums, apartments, and retail space (see our other blog entry: The Carruth). The building held its open house on Saturday and Sunday (March 8th and 9th) where many local businesses and organizations had displays. Flat Black Coffee Company (who will have a cafe in the building) and Tavolo (a new Italian eatery in the building) handed out delicious samples for visitors and there was even a DJ. The condos were amazing inside, and if you would like to see for yourself, images are available at the building's website: www.thecarruth.com

Update: Yelp Recognizes Dot!

2008-02-29T13:31:00.010-05:00

Our campaign was a success! We are pleased to report that Dorchester is now recognized by the popular social-networking website Yelp.com as a neighborhood of Boston. Thank you to all of you who e-mailed them demanding Dorchester be included!

At the top of their Dorchester list are such great establishments as Shanti, Mrs. Jones, McKenna's Cafe, Chef Lee's, Common Ground, and the Ice Creamsmith. There is also a separate neighborhood entry for Fields Corner. It should also be noted that now Mattapan, Roslindale, and West Roxbury are also listed.

Go to Yelp Boston's site (Yelp Boston) and click on "Neighborhood" and then on either Dorchester or Fields Corner to check it out.

Check out our original posting on this: Why Does Yelp Not Consider Dorchester A Neighborhood of Boston?

dot aht: Street Art in Dorchester

2008-02-22T19:40:00.003-05:00

A guerrilla art movement has come to the streets of Dorchester. According to their website, the promoter of dot aht is "inviting artists to produce small pieces of art to be displayed on the streets and sidewalks of Dorchester." She makes it clear that the art should be "non-destructive" and "meant to build not to destroy."

We are intrigued by this art movement that has become commonplace in NYC and SF, and await with anticipation to see what local artists will add to the Dorchester scene.

www.dotaht.com

Welcome Back Trolley!

2008-02-19T22:08:00.022-05:00

For over a year one of the coolest facets of our neighborhood has been missing. Due to improvements on the Ashmont-Mattapan T line, our beloved 1940s-era trolleys have been absent. These trolley's provide not only transportation from Ashmont Station to Mattapan Square, but also give the neighborhood a unique attraction and hipness. Not only do these trolley's provide Lower Dot with transportation (including Dorchester stops at Ashmont, Cedar Grove, and Butler Street, and a stop on the Milton-Lower Mills border), but they have a personal connection for us. An identical trolley graces the Embarcadero in San Francisco, (Boston donated it after the 1988 earthquake) reminding Erin of her native soil. I know we are not the only people in the neighborhood to cheer "Welcome back trolley"!

(Last photo courtesy of Peter Ehrlich)

Calling All Dot Residents... Why Does Yelp Not Consider Dorchester a Neighborhood of Boston?

2008-02-02T11:45:00.008-05:00

The neighborhood of Dorchester's hip establishments are rapidly growing, but you wouldn't even know it was part of Boston if you regularly go to the popular user review website Yelp (www.yelp.com/boston) because it is not listed as so. After several attempts to contact Yelp about this, including a response telling us they are "working on it", nothing has been done.

This omission seems almost purposeful. Several neighborhoods of the city that offer far fewer resturants and shops than Dorchester are listed (including Dudley Square, Egleston Square, Mission Hill, South Boston, Hyde Park, etc.). On top of this, many places that are not even in Boston are listed as neighborhoods of the city, including Central and Harvard Squares (in the city of Cambridge), Coolidge Corner (in the town of Brookline), Davis Square (in the city of Somerville), Arlington Center (in the town of Arlington), and Winthrop (which is a separate town in itself), etc.

We are asking our readers to take a moment and send a comment to Yelp that Dorchester needs to be added to their list of Boston neighborhoods. This simple action will encourage more people in the city to visit Dot (because Yelp is such a widely used website by people under 40), having a positive effect on our local businesses.

NOTE: Please see the update on this entry.

Please join the campaign to add Dot to Yelp Fill out a contact form (and be sure to mention you use Yelp when you contact them).
Contact Yelp

Lower Dot for Obama

2008-02-01T20:10:00.000-05:00

Although it seems to be close, Lower Dot appears to be voting for Barack Obama on Super Tuesday. There are numerous Obama signs on cars and homes around the neighborhood. We have seen local volunteers from "Dorchester for Obama" going door-to-door on the weekends making sure everyone shows up to the polls. Not to mention, Obama has earned the support of Lower Dot's state rep. Linda Dorcena Forry, city councilors Sam Yoon, Charles Yancy, Michael Flaherty, and congressman Michael Capuano (who represents half of Lower Dot), not to mention the always crucial Dorchester Reporter.

We will be taking our own pilgrimage to Florian Hall to vote for him. As usual don't forget to vote on Tuesday February 5!

www.barackobama.com

Dot Art Clay Station and Dot-2-Dot Collaborate on a Project

2008-01-22T13:58:00.000-05:00

As Dot Art opens a second studio dedicated to ceramics and clay (the Dot Art Clay Station at 1782 Dorchester Avenue), there is news that they will be collaborating on a sculpture project that will be permanently installed as part of the storefront of the new Dot-2-Dot Café (the European-style coffee and sandwich café that is in the process of opening in what was a hair salon at 1739 Dorchester Avenue). The hope is that this will help create Dot-2-Dot as a Dorchester Avenue landmark and help increase the visibility of the local Dorchester art community.

Dot Art (1775a Dorchester Avenue) is the Dorchester Community Center for the Visual Arts, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to make exemplary visual arts education available to the community.