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Cuisine: American |
When it first opened a few years ago, Boulevard Woodgrill was one of the nicer dining establishments in Clarendon. Not exactly ahead of the rush – mainstays like Whitlow’s on Wilson hold that distinction – Boulevard nevertheless landed in the heart of what is now a bustling Clarendon scene. Once the only moderately upscale restaurant in the area, Boulevard has now been trumped by the likes of the Cheesecake Factory and Harry’s Tap Room. For fans of this reliable neighborhood restaurant, it can only be said that Boulevard’s loss is our gain.
Although it does occasionally boast some interesting specials – shark has made an appearance from time to time – Boulevard lists some fairly standard fare on its menu. Do not confuse standard with ordinary, however, as the menu is strewn with delicious options. The restaurant can claim to have this critic’s favorite appetizer in the entire city - spinach, crab, and artichoke dip. While the dip itself is a tasty treat, the unique touch is the pita crisps that accompany it, making this a must-have before any meal. For those looking to branch out, however, the sizeable jerk chicken wings and the fried calamari are also scrumptious.
While the Boulevard does offer some filling sandwiches, these should be reserved for lunchtime visits. Likewise, the Sunday brunch contains all the usual staples, including an inviting stack of French toast. The dinner menu offers enough worthy options to keep even the pickiest eater satisfied. The grilled salmon, served over a pile of warm, mashed potatoes, is killer, as are the wood grilled sirloin steaks, served with either potatoes or French fries. The veal meatloaf has been known to attract some hungry patrons, as has the restaurant’s expanding fish selection. For those looking for something on the side, the Boulevard’s macaroni & cheese is a treat in and of itself.
The Boulevard’s only real drawback is its lack of a substantive dessert menu. With only three options, the pickings are slim. That being said, the reasonable prices and the inviting atmosphere make it a difficult option to pass up. And, with diners increasingly leaning towards Clarendon’s newer tenants, tables are much easier to come by. The Boulevard always seems to have a good crowd, yet waits are minimal if present at all. Parking is available on the street or in the neighboring lots, and the venue even offers to host events in its secluded basement. For those looking to see what a revitalized Arlington is all about, you cannot do much better than the Boulevard Woodgrill.
Submitted 7/30/04.