Stirnella Bar & Kitchen
INTRODUCTION: Stirnella Bar & Kitchen in the Blackstone area was our meeting place on a recent January evening. This is an open bar and restaurant which has private tables as well as community tables. There is seating at the bar as well as heated and enclosed patio seating which in the summer would be really fun to watch the foot traffic along Farnam Street. There is an open area outside in the back which would be an enjoyable way to spend the evening on a warm spring/summer/fall night. The decor is clean and pleasant.
THE SERVICE: We were seated quickly and an excellent waitress Ally quickly took our drink orders. They have an extensive wine, beer and craft cocktail menu from which to choose. Rick chose his Brickway Coffee Vanilla Stout beer, Patty a Bloody Mary which she made positive comments on all night long and Sarah tried the Rosemary Greyhound which was outstanding! Jim is our trusty Diet Coke man. The coke was flat We also placed an order under the Happy Hour prices for Arancini which was good.
Ally is great at her job. She took the time to give us the run down on all the appetizers, entrees and dessert offerings. She was thorough, efficient and answered questions with knowledge and respect. She is well-versed in the menu offering and how everything is prepared. I would give this a four thumbs up experience based on Ally’s service alone. She refilled water and Diet Coke glasses, offered refills, checked in appropriately if we were satisfied with our food and beverages.
THE FOOD: The menu is chef-inspired, varied and outstanding. We all loved our choices. Patty had the risotto (beets, celery root, parmigiana, truffle, breuleed telaggio), Jim had the roast chicken (potato puree, Marsala, roasted mushroom, Brussels sprouts), Sarah had the ocean trout (leek, potato, carrot, pancetta, blood orange, beurre rouge); Rick had the pot roast (wagyu short rib, potato, carrot, garlic, shallot, port). Entrees were $18 to $27. There is a ribeye ($38) and Blackstone burger ($16). The menu has numerous options for shared sides, appetizers, small plates and meals. The flavor combinations are amazing to the palate. The chef is taking fresh local ingredients and putting creativity and expertise into the end results.
SUMMARY: The portions were adequate, not huge. But you have quality ingredients prepped specifically for you with amazing outcomes. You will not be disappointed. Try it! It may become your favorite local restaurant yet!