Interested in discovering the newest restaurant and retail additions to South Boston? From a mini-plant studio to inventive Mediterranean food, read on for the newest spots to open for business in this part of Boston.
Chickadee
21 Drydock Ave.
Chickadee is a Mediterranean and New American restaurant located in the Seaport District's Innovation and Design Building.
Taking its place alongside the designers, tech start-ups and creators that populate the building, Chickadee offers a creative menu that combines local ingredients with Mediterranean culinary traditions. You'll find salads of fried cauliflower, charred eggplant and marinated beet flavored with Middle Eastern and African spice mixes, like harissa and za'atar. Pitas come stuffed with fried hake, crispy chicken and spicy cauliflower, while mains include a za'atar salmon and chicken meatballs with smoked almond, grape, jicama and mint.
The drinks menu consists of beer, wine and imaginative cocktails like the Red Hawk, made with reposado tequila, roasted red pepper and lime.
Yelp users are excited about Chickadee, which currently holds 4.5 stars out of nine reviews on the site.
Alicia K. noted, "Chickadee's interiors surely echoed the spirit of its host building — industrial, yet vibrant and modern at the same time. All of the dishes we ordered was great — each of them exudes strong personality."
Yelper Kevin D. wrote, "The dips and main sandwiches were incredible — well-composed, tasty, multidimensional and filling without leaving me feeling like I had to be rolled out of the restaurant. I especially loved all of the pickled vegetables done in house — a tasty, unique addition to many of the dishes."
Chickadee is open from 11 a.m.–11 p.m. on Monday-Saturday. (It's closed on Sunday.)
Gelato & Chill
19 Drydock Ave.
Also new in the Innovation and Design Building is Gelato & Chill.
Here, gelato is made in small batches using natural ingredients. Milk- and cream-based flavors include hazelnut, matcha green tea and tiramisù. Sorbet options include Brittany Cream, which boasts cultured butter and bourbon vanilla, and vegan versions like mango, strawberry and chocolate and habanero.
In addition to availability in-store, Gelato & Chill will bring its creations to your event.
Gelato & Chill currently holds five stars out of three reviews on Yelp, indicating good reviews.
Zhou Y. noted, "Perfect gelato texture and great flavors. Tried a bunch; ultimately choose the ricotta and blueberry. Incredible ricotta taste. Some of the best gelato I've ever had."
Yelper Warner N. wrote, "We found this spot on Yelp, drove here, found free parking very close and really enjoyed the gelato. It was some of the best we have ever had. Super nice servers and great vibes."
Gelato & Chill is open from noon–5 p.m. on weekdays. (It's closed on weekends.)
Micro Plant Studio
365 W. Broadway
Micro Plant Studio is a combined flower shop, plant nursery and art studio.
Proprietor Julio César Román offers for sale his collection of small succulents, artfully arranged in glass tubes, porcelain cups, small pots and even miniature toys. A studio space allows customers to create their own such creations, as gifts or for the home or office. Also available are cut flowers and flower arrangements.
Yelp users are excited about Micro Plant Studio, which currently holds five stars out of two reviews on the site.
Yelper Uyen C., who reviewed Micro Plant Studio on July 7, wrote, "I randomly walked in and was greeted warmly by the owner, Julio. He took his time to explain which plants would be best for my lifestyle. He also clearly explained how to care for the plants. The store was small and cute, and the plants all looked great."
Julianne M. noted, "The owner was super friendly and helpful. He took time to explain how to care for my plants and provided me with lots of information about the other plants he sells."
Micro Plant Studio is open from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m.–5 p.m. on weekends.
Warby Parker
72 Seaport Blvd.
Finally, Warby Parker arrives in Seaport.
The formerly online-only chain is known for its designer eyewear sold at discount prices. At the new space, located at the One Seaport complex, you'll find the usual selection of designed-in-house frames, including miniaturized versions for kids. No appointment is necessary, and there is an optometrist onsite.
Warby Parker's current rating of five stars out of three reviews on Yelp indicates positive attention from users.
Breanna V. noted, "My friend and I went to this location to look for sunglasses. The staff was extremely helpful; they immediately greeted us and helped us find the exact style/color we were looking for. When the pair I wanted wasn't available, they took the time to check nearby stores for us."
Yelper Kimberly N. wrote, "Great, friendly staff. Chris the optometrist was so helpful. It can be so overwhelming to pick, but he really knew his stuff and made the process easy and fun."
Warby Parker is open from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. on Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.–6 p.m. on Sunday.
