I have been to Aragosta a number of times since they opened in 2011; for media and blogger sponsored events, a ladies night at the chefs counter, and with out of town family to dine on the picturesque waterfront terrace. Located off the North End tourist path on Battery Wharf, I think they struggle to keep themselves on the radar year after year. The Battery Wharf Hotel is no longer a Fairmont Property and I am not sure if this changes anything. I know the chefs experienced a turnover since last time I was here.
The terrace is the real draw but it was not open on this particular visit, so we're seated in a cozy both in the back corner of the near empty hotel restaurant. I still feel like the interior might be in need of a facelift, especially compared to the sleekly attractive bar and lounge area which draws more clientele at this (7pm) hour. Our waiter is genuine and offers polished, prompt service throughout.
We each start with a Bacon Old Fashioned ($13) - smokey and sweet, it is an admirable rendition. The only thing missing is a bacon garnish!
The Buratta ($12) appetizer comes alongside delicate orange slices, golden beets and fig jam. The unexpected yet welcome pairings with the small pouch of cool, creamy cheese is a nice start to the meal.
Aragosta is Italian for lobster and doing the namesake proud is the Lobster Bisque ($14). The show stopping broth is velvety, balanced and brilliantly flavored, poured tableside over a cluster of tender shucked meat with a dollop of crème fresh and cracked pepper.
What doesn't entirely work is my Lobster Ravioli ($42). Hefty claws and large tails of butter poached Maine lobster are overwhelmed by a chunky fra diavolo-esque red sauce. Completely coating all that gorgeous lobster meat seems like a mistake. 
The Short Rib ($34) was outshined by the accompanying Lobster Smashed Potatoes (a side is $14) and nicely cooked spinach and asparagus. It wasn't a memorable dish otherwise. New restaurant openings in Boston are frequent and the competition is steep. I am not sure the entire menu is focused and compelling enough to keep locals coming back, but Aragosta is certainly a major draw for hotel guests. Strolling along the harborwalk with my Mom and sister a couple weeks later the patio is back in business, a busy scene during the late lunch hour; I'm happy to see them doing well!
Aragosta Bar & Bistro
3 Battery Wharf
3 Battery Wharf
Boston, MA 02109
*this meal was complimentary, all opinions are my own*
*this meal was complimentary, all opinions are my own*
Beautiful pictures of what seems a rather ordinary meal - I've been going to Aragosta for years and have experienced its ups and downs as it cycles through chefs and bar staff. Definitely agree about the interior needing a face-lift, it is stuck in the late-90s idea of opulence and we've all moved on from that.
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