The Parish Cafe proved a prudent choice for a perfect salad

Parish Cafe's Hot and Cold Chicken Salad (Rochester Voice photo)

BOSTON - The Parish Cafe and Bar is beyond unique.
Located at 361 Boylston Street just a half block from Arlington Street and the city's Public Garden, this cute and convivial eatery was conceived in the early '90' on a premise to feature the unique sandwich creations of some of Boston's most renowned chefs.
They also have delicious soups and salads, which we chose on a recent overnight stay in the Hub.
The salads are all around $20, but since our hotel had no fridge and we didn't want to take a doggie bag, we chose to split a single order, which turned out to be prescient for it presented a perfect portion for a light lunch.
We chose the Hot and Cold Chicken Salad, which comprised chilled grilled chicken, caramelized almonds, arugula, snap peas, shaved carrots along with warm aromatic rice dressed with sesame and a soy vinaigrette for 18.50.
We added avocado for an extra $4.
Two things about the service. While most eateries just bring you out a big platter with an extra plate, they took the time to serve out meal in two separate bowls.
And knowing I eat gluten free, they knew to sub in a different dressing, since soy sauces and vinaigrettes often have gluten.
We hadn't requested either. Very impressive.
As for the salad, itself, you'd have to say outstanding, with the cold chicken, snap peas and shaved carrots mingling deliciously with the warm rice and cold avocado, a truly tantalizing testament to their impeccable blending of greens, veggies and protein.
And our waitress, Alexis, was as charming, gracious and knowledgeable as they get.
The Parish Cafe and Bar also has a plethora of micro brews and other beers, 125 to be exact.

In fact, the only disappointment was they had no gluten-free bread or rolls. Still, gluten sensitive or not, don't miss this dining option. There's plenty here to enjoy!

Service ★★★★★

Food ★★★★★

Atmosphere ★★★★