Boulevard Woodgrill

Every time I'm at Boulevard Woodgrill for happy hour, I'm both happy that the rest of Clarendon has turned its back on this place, while surprised its not packed every weeknight.

The BW has been around for awhile - its one of those places you can trace to a culinary fad (I think the name gives away which fad I'm referring to) but that has stuck around - albeit in need of an update, both in decor and menu.  The restaurant is large without being expansive, and has a long bar running down one side with ample patio seating outdoors in nice weather.

But I've never sat outside, and never sat in the dining room - and don't expect to.  At the bar (only) from 5-7, all appetizers are half price, with various drink specials on most of their beers (4$), house wine, and rail liquors.  Every time the MTB and I go, we get the Beef Bruschetta - slices of filet mignon on top of toasted bread with tomato, mozzarella, basil and drizzled with balsamic.  Its a pretty hefty appetizer that can make a light meal - for $5.25.  Firecracker chicken is a plate of standard boneless hot wings  - $4.75.  A serviceable caprese salad, egg rolls, seafood options and artichoke dips round out the bar menu. 

This isn't gourmet.  Some food options are better than others.  But its quiet, its not pretentious, the service is attentive and the food is sufficient.  The MTB and I can go in, get a few apps and a few drinks and walk out with a $25 bill.  And we can do that while being able to have a conversation and without feeling like we're in the middle of a kickball beer pong tournament.  A winner all around.