Grill 23 & Bar
(617) 542-2255
161 Berkeley St
Boston,
MA
02116
42.349
-71.0717
Neighborhoods: Back Bay, Black Bay East

What People Are Saying About Grill 23 & Bar
The Editor
Eric Grossman
Citysearch
Regardless of the Dow Jones' fortunes, the city's power crowd won't ever quit filling Grill 23's cavernous dining room. They come to feast on award-winning steaks, and to enjoy selections from an acclaimed, luxurious wine list. With high ceilings and lots of mahogany and polished brass, patrons are guaranteed a classic steakhouse atmosphere. The chophouse's selection of dry-aged Brandt steaks--served a la carte--is what keeps the crowds coming back for more, but foodies are appeased by imaginative starters like yellowtail sashimi or mustardy deviled eggs. Sumptuous sides (try the addictive organic truffle tots or tobacco onions) are a must, as are classic desserts like Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee.
Photo courtesy of Grill 23
User Reviews

hotelman21
June 11, 2009
The steak I had was one of the best I have ever had. Cooked to perfection, it was paired with carmelized onions that complemented well with the delicious garlic mash potatos. The service was wonderful as expected. I will return!
read full reviewdeidresanch
May 06, 2009
I have always been a fan of steak, being originally from the south, so of course I had to try Grill 23. Upon hearing good reviews about Grill 23, I decided to make reservations online for my recent graduation dinner on May 1, 2009. My party’s first impressions were positive. We had no trouble waiting for our table, and the décor was ambient and beautiful with wood paneling. I felt that my waiter was prompt and his service to our table was decent enough. When my party received our food we were initially impressed by the taste and presentation. However, our impressions abruptly went sour when one person in our party spotted something CRAWLING on her mashed potatoes. She immediately called one of the waiter’s attention. The waiter took her plate away without an explanation or apology. We waited approximately 5-10 minutes before my friend contacted ANOTHER waiter and asked, “what are the restaurant’s procedures regarding a mishap in your food?” The staff appeared to be negligent and unconcerned. When the manager finally arrived for what we thought would be a sympathetic apology, he stated that he could only replace her order. My friend stated, “I have lost my appetite and would rather not have another plate.” She then respectfully asked for a refund and the manager refused to give us any other options. He said, “I can only replace your order, but since you ate half of it, I can give you half of your order to go.” I have previously dined at a fast food joint where the manager refunded an order with no problem, regardless of the amount of the food consumed or other variables. Not only was the manager not prompt about this serious matter, but he was unprofessional and had some nerve. Overall, Grill 23 lacks in professional management, and promptness about a serious manner. The quality of the food was subpar and unsanitary. This is an occurrence one would expect at a fast food joint or chain restaurant, but not at a restaurant that has been deemed “Best of Boston.” I would highly recommend that you dine somewhere else – perhaps try another steak house in Boston such as Abe and Louie’s.
read full reviewTheReviewa
October 18, 2008
Grill 23 is a great restaurant for a special occasion or a guys/girls night out. The meat is very good and the appetizers are quite niece too. If you don't like steak, try the yellow-tail entree. This Sushi-grade dish is a fantastic alternative to red meat. There is an impressive wine list and some interesting cocktails to choose from. Or, if you want to keep it simple there are plenty of beers for about $5. All together this is a nice alternative to S&W or Davios if you are looking for a new steak house. However, on balance, we prefer Davios.
read full reviewThe Details on Grill 23 & Bar
Where to Sit:
Patrons looking to carry on a conversation should consider requesting a table in the small, quiet seating area upstairs.
Know Before You Go:
Strict vegetarians will have a tough time finding viable menu options, but non-red meat eaters can choose from several acclaimed seafood dishes (try a hefty swordfish steak).
Category:
Payment Methods:
Gift Certificate, American Express, Discover, Visa, Diners Club, MasterCard, Travelers Check
Restaurant Special Features:
Local Favorite, Special Occasion Dining, Private Rooms, People Watching, Business Dining, Online Reservations, Date Spot, Group Dining, Dine At The Bar, Notable Wine List, Bar Scene
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
No






