The menu, which changes frequently, is roughly Italian, but much of what you try has a significant modern polish. Many options come as a “full” or a “tasting” and I will contend they are very much that — a tasting will not fill you up. Some of the seasonals here that I have known and loved:
- Oysters Rockefeller: This classic preparation on the oyster with spinach and lime is good by the oyster as an amuse-bouche or maybe a few to whet the appetite.
- Beet Mezzaluna Salad: Beet slices which have been stuffed with aged goat cheese are the base of this salad, with refined greens and a savory vinaigrette. Definitely a plus to have some of that balsamic on the side.
- Risotte Cacio e Pepe: This risotto recipe comes with a base of peccorino Romano cheese and black peppers, peas and mint to add texture. Cacio y pepe tends to be a very salty dish, but this one uses it in a deft hand for a more refined flavor.
- Buckeye Candy Bar: This combo of brownie, peanut nougat and gelato on top makes for a thick and sweet dessert, not overly sweet but with the thick fudge-like chocolate and peanut butter both bringing a strong aroma and very satisfying crunch.
The restaurant has so many intimate nooks and comfortable spots for a dinner, in spite of its place downtown. It’s about perfect for a dinner after a show at the Aronoff Center or a nightcap after a night downtown. Probably best when shared with a date or a small group of friends. Reservations are definitely a must thanks to the spot’s popularity but you can expect that the service makes it well worth the hassle. A final thought; Boca is about quality, not quantity, so many of the plates, even full plates, can be smaller than you may be used to.
Boca has turned a lot of heads since it opened its doors, and with good reason. It really offers a lot of great experiences. This classy fare is well worth a visit.
Recommendations
- Reservations are a must. The place is simply too popular, especially on weekends, and especially when something is happening downtown.
- The food comes in “tastings” and “full course” options, so you can try a few different things for more.
- The extensive cocktail menu is worth a look.
Another Food Critic 