Bob Southern Bistro THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Bob's Southern Bistro

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Bob's Southern Bistro

604 Columbus Ave. (Massachusetts Ave.)
Boston, MA 02118
617-536-6204
Map
Cuisine: Cajun / Creole
Despite the name, the soul food institution formerly known as Bob the Chef's Southern Cuisine is as down-home as ever.
Openings: Dinner nightly, Brunch Sat.-Sun.

Features


THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Bob's Southern Bistro Restaurant Review:


For decades, Bob the Chef's Southern Cuisine was a temple to which only true believers in the gospel of soul food flocked. Then, as the South End began to gentrify, a new owner, Jess Settles, re-imagined the space as a jazzy supper club, where exposed-brick walls, framed art and spot lighting set the stage for yuppies yukking it up next to blue-collar regulars. Now, Settles has added the final touch with a name change. And yet, atmospheric disjoint aside, the food is as down-home as ever. At their best, the famous glorifried chicken is crispy, juicy and not too greasy, and the ribs are a slip-off-the-bone treat. Problem is, they're not always at their best; at times, and especially at Sunday brunch, the kitchen is anything but soulful, and meats emerge overcooked, side dishes cold. Still, the collard greens---cooked with smoked turkey instead of the less-healthy and traditional ham hocks---show that sometimes change isn't all that bad.