Avila Modern Mediterranean-Theater District Dining

Avila is not just another pretty face on the Boston restaurant scene, but  it certainly is a looker. The design of Avila is  both sophisticated and warmly inviting-  with a coffered ceiling, contemporary furnishings with clean lines and an open kitchen. The emphasis here is on intensely flavored ingredients in dishes from the Mediterranean region- Spain, Italy, France, and Greece . Chef Rodney Murillo’s food sings, from carefully- crafted small plates, to exquisite pastas, to creative fish and meat entrees.

The tasty goat cheese truffle croquettes are a must-order. The Kobe beef meatballs is another fine starter. The corn chowder with buttered- poached lobster and a garnish of popcorn drizzled with chorizo aioli is not only well-composed – it’s playful!  Hand -crafted pastas dishes are another strength at Avila and are available in half-portions perfect for sampling. The gnocchi with organic mushrooms and truffle oil is a study in contrasts-  rich from the flavor of the mushrooms and light from the supremely textured gnocchi. Don’t overlook the entrees- there is a  perfectly-cooked filet mignon served on a bed of creamy polenta. And the  seared cod, fingerling potatoes , leeks and saffron is both creative and balanced. Finish well- you can’t go wrong with Avila’s  wheeled dessert cart offerings-  whether it be the vanilla bean panna cotta with fresh berries, the chocolate molten, or the fresh churros with both  chocolate and  dulce de leche sauce.

The staff is unfailingly affable,  and obviously enjoys helping diners feel at ease with Avila’s many  choices. Located in the Theater District and a hot spot to eat before or after a show, Avila also serves lunch, Sunday brunch and has an excellent bar menu that features quick snacks and plates.

Avila Modern Mediterranean, 1 Charles St., South, Boston, 617-267-4810 (Map).

Image Credit: Avila, used with permission.

PlanetEye Boston received a complimentary meal to review.