28 Degrees
After hearing that oysters are an aphrodisiac, I decided to give them a shot at 28 Degrees during the one dollar oyster special, which runs 5-7 p.m. on Mondays and Fridays, and 5-10 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays.
From the outside, 28 Degrees looks like a “hipster” hotspot. The restaurant’s layout presents several problems for the romantically inclined. Some of the tables seat people side-by-side, which makes flirty eyes and playing footsie more difficult (unless you’re into swinging). The dim lighting creates an intimate appearance. The other patrons appeared vibrant, which made eating more enjoyable.
Many Boston restaurants are now offering $1 oyster promotions, hoping to make money off the drinks. Since my first encounter at 28 Degrees, I have been back for seconds and thirds of the Island Creek oysters, which are served with three sauces — my favorite is the cilantro mignonette. For those not so seafood inclined, there’s the standard steak, pasta, or pizza.
My date ordered the steak, and it tasted tender.As the hours go on, the bar starts to fill up, catering to an older crowd. During the earlier hours, the service is faster but not in the “we’re trying to seat the 8:30 crowd” kind of way. As the night wears on, it can take 20 minutes to get the server to get your drink. (I recommend the Bellini and Blueberry Basil Martini.)
All in all, 28 Degrees is a nice spot for a date. Avoid the sliders because they get messy. The cheese appetizer is tiny for the price — oysters are a much better starter. I wouldn’t say that the food is particularly remarkable, but the scene leaves a good impression.
Plus, if oysters really are an aphrodisiac, at one dollar each, you can’t really go wrong. —Christine Yu