Stephi's on Tremont

I can't believe it has been 8 weeks of incredible lunches! I'm still loving every minute. Even if I was the only person lunching by myself at a busy restaurant in the picture perfect South End.I decided to visit Stephi's on Tremont. I have been to Stephanie's on Newbury, so I figured now it was time to give her hip younger sister a try. I arrived to a lovely but nearly empty patio. I choose to be seated indoors where air conditioning and a promptly delivered glass of ice water cooled me down in no time. It was a scorcher out there today.

Upon being seated I immediately took note of the fun salt and pepper grinders at my table. My waiter, who introduced himself as Travis, did an excellent job. No complaints in the service department, my drink and entrée were delivered at rapid speed. I decided on a signature martini to start things off.No, this is not a Cosmo. This potent creation would be a Tea Party ($12) - a Boston Tea Party at that, made with Absolut Boston, blood orange, lemon and iced tea. I get excited to see Absolut Boston on specialty drink menus as I just love the flavor infusions of black tea and elderflower. The martini might look like liquid candy but I assure you, it was only a tad sweet. Plus, I had a nice buzz after lunch.

I ordered the Ahi Tuna Tartare ($13) boasting sashimi grade tuna served with sesame poached tomatoes, whipped avocado, chipotle chili soy sauce, spicy mayonnaise and lime vinaigrette.

The silky whipped avocado was spread a top smooth compact tuna sphere that sat on a vibrant lime vinaigrette, swirled with chipotle chili soy sauce and topped with dollops of spicy mayo. The avocado layer looks rather thin, but it permeated flavor throughout the entire bed of tartare. Speaking of flavor, those emulsions added layer upon layer of it to the dish. They were absolutely brilliant together.
The side of wonton chips were a pleasant surprise. They were served warm sprinkled with sesame seeds. The light and airy texture played nicely off their rich and buttery taste. Stephi's is clean and comfortable with large windows, off white wood paneling, handsome globe chandeliers and chocolate leather seating.

For sophisticated comfort food and classy cocktails in the South End, Stephi's on Tremont was great. I would definitely need to sample more of the menu to make a truly informed recommendation, but from my experience so far, I'd say she is worth checking out.

My South End walks continued throughout the afternoon. It was simply lovely.

Stephi's on Tremont

571 Tremont Street

Boston, MA