Bites Nearby: The Square Cafe

Dear ,

You had me at “Yellow Fin Tuna Two Ways.” Soy and citrus, sesame seared, seaweed salad and wasabi cream? Well, I’d be happy with one way, never mind two… but if you insist.

And this is just the beginning, friends. See, this “new” American food bistro aims to “nourish the soul” and apparently wants me to have a conniption deciding between their dozens of delectable dishes. Yes, with seven starters and seven salads, it’s hard to decide where to start for your first course, or maybe make it a meal by pairing a couple of different starters together? But if you’re anything like me, you can’t afford to miss the mains.

Kurobuta Baby Back Ribs (with a guava BBQ sauce, tempura green beans and Kim Chi slaw), Cabernet Braised Short Ribs, Bell & Evans Chicken Thighs are among a few of the crowd favorites, but mine? Well, the Grilled #1 Yellow Fin Tuna with Yuzu vinaigrette, pomegranate syrup, Baby Bok Choy and some steamed Jasmine rice doesn’t disappoint. With its sweet and sour flavors, it’s decadent but not overwhelming or too filling. Perfect if you want to leave room for dessert.

Which, trust me, you do.

The Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp and Coconut Crème Brulee are fan favorites, but then there’s a Carrot Cake with cream cheese frosting and a cinnamon crème Anglaise that you don’t want to miss, either. Decisions, decisions…

Perhaps my most important recommendation with this restaurant isn’t which dishes to try, but instead to go with a group. Not a particularly large group, four to six will do, and make sure your fellow dinners are willing to share. That way, you don’t have to decide between the seared scallops or the grilled beef tenderloin with truffle and leek sauce, you can sample them both!

And last but not least, the beverage portion: With an extensive wine list and delightful signature cocktails, even the biggest wine snob will be pleasantly surprised with this South Shore’s hot spot’s offerings. The Cooper Hill Pinot Noir (made with organic grapes) is one of the budding wine state of Oregon’s most sought-after, under $50 bottles. But if you’re looking for something a little different, the X-Rated Martini (made with seasonal blood orange-flavored vodka and Grey Goose) is like liquid candy.

is also open for lunch daily from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The dining room is open for dinner service starting at 5 p.m. nightly.  For reservations, please call 781-740-4060.