Restaurant Row: Chez Henri

After living in the Boston area for almost four years, I have a number of favorite restaurants.  I want to start documenting these on my blog because I am always looking for new bites and assume all of you feel the same.  I can't think of a better restaurant to begin my series than Chez Henri located just outside of Harvard Square.

Chez Henri is a modern French Bistro with a fusion of Cuban cuisine owned by chef Paul O'Connell.  His food has spectacular flavor and ranges from tangy citrusy Ceviche Mixta as a starter to traditional French Steak Frites and Cubano Sandwiches.  Also, his bar tender makes the best Mojito in the city.  

Paul is a huge supporter of the local food movement here in Boston.  During the summer he is heavily involved with farmers markets, putting on cooking demonstrations at the Union Square farmers market, and buying from local farmers when possible.  I had the pleasure of meeting Paul for the first time when he volunteered to cook alongside chef Bob Sargent of flora and Chris Schlesinger of East Coast Grill at the Urban Barn Dance, a benefit for Mass Farmers Markets last summer.  Paul is a down to earth person who cares deeply about the local food economy and making delicious food.  

Tommy and I visited Chez Henri for Valentines day.  Admittedly we only ever sit at the bar and order two Cubanos and two Mojitos, but these two items rock my world!  Chez Henri has a relaxing atmosphere with a neighborhood vibe.  Even though the food is on the pricey side, it is well worth the cost.  I like visiting Chez Henri because I know the meal will always be enjoyable and I am supporting a restaurant which supports my own beliefs.

Now... lets talk about this Cubano.  I DREAM about this sandwich.  Served on an artfully toasted buttery baguette style bread with slow roasted pork, cheese, and spicy aioli, this sandwich just melts in my mouth with every bite.  The sandwich comes with plantain chips and a mild salsa dip.  I couldn't drink anything else with this meal other than a mojito.  The mojitos at Chez Henri have the perfect mix of citrus, sugar, and peppermint to blow your socks off and make you nicely tipsy.  

Tommy chowin' down

I hope you all run out to experience this amazing restaurant.  Happy long weekend!