Boston - October 23, 2009

Whadda Pair

Pairings Restaurant Opens

After stress eating for the two hours Balloon Boy floated over Colorado, you need to take it easy on the intake.

Just in time for your culinary downsizing, Pairings opens Monday in Back Bay.

Chef Bobby Bean’s menu is packed with little gourmet dishes made for sharing. Set up in Bonfire’s old spot, the revamped dining room has dark wood floors, vaulted ceilings, and overstuffed booths. There’s also a massive bar and warm-weather patio (le sigh).

Since you love the unexpected (giant helium balloons?), try lobster corn dogs with vadouvan, pickled cabbage, and lemon or Muscovy duck with figs, chestnuts, and arugula.

If sharing isn’t your thing (’tis flu season, after all), solo entrees include Painted Hills Farm hanger steak with salsify, cipollini onions, quinoa, and oyster mushrooms.

You’ll be flying high.

Pairings, 50 Park Plaza, Back Bay (617-262-3473 or pairingsboston.com).

  Good for Groups, Late Night, Light Bites