Estella was wonderful. My wife and I are foodies and in Boston for a conference. We were looking for something unique and comfortable. Estella offered a twist on traditional flavors that was wonderful. We started with drinks. The seasonal blueberry harvest was a delicious gin cocktail that was a perfect balance of sweet sweet and herbaceous deliciousness of gin. My better half had a Nearest to Me which was a delicious whisky shaken with lemon and ginger ale. We ordered the Parm garlic yucca fries with their delicious aioli...and I could've eaten another plate. For our meals I had the blackened salmon tacos. The flavors were delicious. The salmon was cooked well and the banana peppers and aioli balanced each other while the crispy onions added a welcome crunch to the lettuce wrapped tacos. My wife had the Shorty and Mash. My god was that a delish bite. The short rib was fall off the bone tender on top of delicious buttery mash. The sauce was a mustard and vinegar base and was unexpectedly delicious cutting through the richness of the beef. The toffee cake was a shared dessert to end the night. Service was attentive and friendly from both our server and management. It was loud but not off-putting and its always great when you leave a restaurant happy with what you had but eager to experience other flavors on the menu. read more

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I loved our Estella experience! Every member of the staff was polite, kind, and easy to work with. The ambiance was delightful - high end, fancy, felt like a bit of a retro vibe. Great lighting. We sat downstairs in the back area, and there were no TVs there, which was GREAT - I had read reviews about "plenty of TVs" but didn't want that vibe. The noise level was absolutely fine - I had read reviews mentioning it being loud, but downstairs on a Monday between 6 - 9 was totally fine, not a problem at all. The food was delicious, the cocktails were also delicious (and strong!), and the service was great. I would definitely go back. read more

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Overall a decent experience. Pretty good drinks, service was good. The vegan meatballs were very overcooked, and the Mac and cheese and mashed potatoes lacked seasoning. At the end the tip percentages were calculated based on the total and the tax, but it shouldn't include the tax in the calculation. read more

We were in Boston for the weekend to see the Nutcracker and went to Estella at the recommendation of the concierge at our hotel. Service was slow and food mediocre at best. Disappointed. read more

My friends and I came here for brunch and had a great time! Since it was towards the end of brunch, it wasn't too busy and we were seated as soon as we arrived. The noise was minimal and we could hear each speaking so thats a plus! The food was a delicious and the portions were great! I got the Blackened Salmon B.L.A.T, and coming from something who doesn't really like fish in general I enjoyed it! The waitstaff was patient, and checked in with us without being overbearing. Overall a very positive experience read more

Estella - Blackened Salmon B.L.A.T - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Food was good but needed hella seasoning. It was also pretty pricey. $105 for an oxtail pasta and 2 lemon drop cocktails. We paid $15 each to go to the club in the basement. It was tight AF, but the music was good (dancehall/soca night). We only stayed for like 1 hours tho. All in all, we enjoyed ourselves. Wouldn't mind visiting again. read more

Estella - Lemon drop - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I went here on a whim because I passed by here and it looked like there was a lot going on. It was definitely a lot going on and too much going on and there was no space in the area, it was crowded. That may be the vibe for some but for me. It was hard to even catch breath. read more

I came here while on a pub crawl. I tried the Thai Chili wings and there were delicious. I also had some themed drink a friend grabbed for me - very green, very strong, very good. Given they knew many patrons would be coming during the pub crawl, I wished they had more bartenders and servers because the service was unreasonably slow. However, I loved the food and the second floor seating area so I plan to return to try out their brunch menu. read more

Estella - Some themed St. Patrick's Day drink - the bartenders were actively reading the recipe card to make them slowing down the service. - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Seated quickly without reservations in a beautifully decorated dining room. Very busy week but the server was quick, friendly and very efficient ! She really knew the menu and gave great suggestions. Everything was delicious especially the desert!!! read more

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I've been twice now and the food is always extremely underwhelming and overpriced. However, this most recent time was especially disappointing. I ordered the salmon tacos which should really be an appetizers, with each taco have a finger nail size of salmon, I was forced to send the dish back. Even a child would not be full off that serving size. My partner ordered the chicken and mushroom pasta which was edible but not interesting in anyway or worth the price. I'd recommend really only coming for drinks as those are pretty good. Service here is pretty slow and the host staff is somewhat rude and dismissive. In addition, the tables closer to the front get very cold as they tend to let people hold the door open while they wait to be seated and this went on for a while. read more

Predatory wait staff. Little bearded dude with European accent (Albanian?) charged us $119 for maybe $85 worth of food and drinks. FTG. Food mid at best. read more

Service isn't good - server was never around. Finished everything and table was empty waiting for bill for 30 mins. Food is fine.

Very loud. Poor service. Had to find our waitress to get utensils. Food was ok nothing special.

The food and atmosphere were amazing. Good food, good drinks and good vibes. 100% recommend trying them out! Our server was attentive and friendly! I will be back. read more

Estella - Rasta Pasta with Oxtail This meal was well seasoned and delicious. 100% recommend! - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Made a last minute early reservation here last weekend and loved the menu options online prior to arriving! Although it was very early and not crowded we waited over 15 minutes for anyone to come by our table after being seated. Our server was hesitant to swap out types of spaghetti sauce and our food came out fairly cold. I did love seeing Yuka fries on their menu as they can be hard to come by in Boston but wasn't impressed after trying them. Overall I don't think we will be back but I have heard others say they had a good experience at Estella so maybe it was an abnormal Friday night for the business. read more

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Very interesting decor . A lot of cool features, a dark blue and gold theme with a vibrant tree in the middle. Service was amazing, waters constantly filled. Waitress was friendly and made great recommendations without seeming pushy. Stephanie was a great server! The others helping out, made it feel upscale. Constant attention. The lavender mock-cocktail I got was not only beautiful but so tasty, even I was tricked! We ordered coconut shrimp as an app and I think it was one of the best I've had. The restaurant was filled with many 30-something's and tourists, but it was a good mix. Trendy but not overdone, nice background music. My lobster ravioli was beautiful. The cream sauce was perfectly seasoned, the lobster was perfectly cooked inside the ravioli and the extra outside. The temperature was very warm, just like I love it. The chicken Milanese was so delicious and the sauce that paired added so much to the meal. I love when we go out to eat and completely clean our plates! I will be saving this as a definite to return! Highly recommend! read more

Estella - Chicken Milanese - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Second time Eve was our server place was busy Saturday still she managed to give us the best service I'm definitely going to be back and I will call ahead to make sure she's there! read more

Food: everything that my guest had ordered was really good and cooked to tenderness. The Rasta pasta and wings were an all-time favorite. The cocktails were also delicious with a well balanced sweetness to it, but sometimes it had been a little overly sweet or overly too much liquor inside, so the consistency was a little off. Service: I think this was the first big group our server had so it took a bit longer to get everything ordered in the system. Granted it was a bigger group of people, and a lot was going on but I still think there should've been a better way in organizing his way around the guest accordingly.. The event coordinator was fantastic. He made sure everything was prepared for as well. Overall, I had a great experience for my birthday. Ambiance: there's three floors in the restaurant and we were at the base level where it's a dark ambience with 20s modern vibe Location accommodation: it's right near the Boston Commons so you could possibly find side parking but garage parking is also available read more

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This was the worst experience ever. We had reservations 2 hours before our play. After an hour we finally got out drinks. 45 minutes later we had to leave before we ate or we wouldn't have made our play. We ended up eating pretzels for dinner at the play. I couldn't tell you how the food was since we never got to try any of it, not even a roll to apologize for the long wait. read more

I definitely recommend this spot for dates, ladies night or after work cocktails. They have 3 floors available. Food was amazing! Very well seasoned. I definitely recommend to take a uber/lyft, finding parking in boston is terrible. read more

during our first visit, Wes was our bartender, who was great and made a perfect spicy margarita. we started with the coconut shrimp which was okay, it was double fried and I would not have tried it again if not for my friend. we also had the Brussel Sprouts which were better than the shrimp but still decent. for our meal we shared a Fajita meal and it was a full display but not my favorite. on our second visit, we just came in for a quick bite and a few drinks. we ordered the garlic toasted brussel sprouts, coconut shrimp and octopus, which were all delicious and much better than the first visit. coconut shrimp 3/5 garlic brussel sprouts 4.5/5 octopus 4.5/5 estella is a fun, aesthetically appealing bar to unwind after work and they have great bartenders and music. ambience: 4.5/5 food: 4.2/5 drinks: 5/5 service: 5/5 Estella: 4.6/5 read more

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Friendly service with a good vibe. I would recommend Remember it's downtown Boston so plan your travel accordingly

We stopped by before a show in the at the opera house and were surprised we were able to find a reservation in the area on such short notice. This spot is relatively new to downtown, and after walking by so many times we decided to give it a try. It's a cool space with a lot of room, but I don't think we'll be back. The menus are fully virtual and poorly organized which made it hard jumping back and forth trying to decide what to order. We were seated right at the top of the stairs, and let me tell you, I got anxiety whenever a waiter came up and turned the corner. Nearly every time, they bumped into each other and spilled some of the drinks (that are filled to the brim!). Based on other reviews, we stuck to the appetizers which is definitely the move. It seems like their menu can't pick a lane - some italian, some tex-mex, some american dishes. Never a great sign when a restaurant tries to do too much. The cocktails look good on paper but were so cloying it was hard to finish. Not worth ordering another here Brussel sprouts - came out hot, very garlicky, well cooked Calamari - crispy, love that it comes with peppers Mussels - really yummy, the broth was honestly the best part. There are certainly better options in the area, but this place is pretty solid. This spot is a little hard to access by car and there's very limited parking in the area. Very walkable and definitely convenient for the opera house. Service is okay, but I wish they were a little more attentive. read more

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As someone who lives in the North End, it's nearly sacrilegious to say this, but I had the best lobster ravioli of my life here. The brussel sprouts were fabulous, from the bright apple bits to the warm melty goat cheese, such an extensive and fun cocktail list (lychee cocktails that actually have lychee as a snack on them, finally!), and that BUTTER BOND CAKE? seriously, such a warm, cozy, and delicious dining experience. Can't wait to come back! read more

Estella - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Went for dessert and drink and what a time! Espresso martini was yum. Of the four dessert, one would have to try the butter bond cake!!!! Can't stress this enough it was divine read more

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I went here on a whim with a friend for her birthday and what a VIBE! The bartender's and staff were so friendly. At the end of the night I was trying to leave and the security there looked out and made sure I could get out! lol The music was lit! Atmosphere was great, people dancing and talking all having a good time. Drinks were pricey but a time was had so who cares! Would definitely come here again. We arrived late so the kitchen was closed (it's okay, we didn't go there for that) but will be returning to try out the food. That night my friend and I had a terrible experience at a previous restaurant/ bar so this place completely saved this night! Thank you! read more

I haven't written tons of five-star reviews since moving to Boston, but Estella has definitely earned one. It's on Temple Place, which is a fantastic location alongside many good cocktail bars and speakeasies. I have frequented this area for a while and am happy to see that Estella moved in in September. I was at Estella last night with friends, as well as this past Friday evening for a birthday celebration. Part 1: The Vibe. Estella is surprisingly spacious, with three floor, including a smaller bar on the first floor and a seating area (with a DJ booth!) on the third floor. As it got later and later on Friday, more and more people poured in, and as the music became heavier on reggaeton, the level of litness increased. There was a whole dance party in there. Part 2: The Food. I ordered the short rib on Friday, which is actually quite a huge dish. Like, it's a lot of meat, and it was SO tender and well-seasoned. That's rather a theme here--tender and well-seasoned. I would especially like to highlight that Estella has delicious sweet potato fries, which is kind of a big deal to a southerner. Last night, I had the Estella Burger, which comes with an egg (don't often see this in the States) and a bomb strawberry fig jam. We also enjoyed the chicken wings and basically everything else we ordered. Part 3: The Libations. Our group had a variety of drinks, including the Piña Caliente (tequila and mezcal, my favorite), Plum Island (flor de caña and plum, which doesn't immediately sound like a great flavor combination but was really a great drink), and the ever-popular espresso martini (I'm not an espresso person, but my friends ordered tons of these). Overall, the cocktails were nicely prepared with quality ingredients and a pleasant presentation (e.g. the designs they put on the top of the espresso martini). I almost didn't write this review because I don't want to publicize Estella or it'll become more crowded! But what a great gem downtown that I'll be sure to return to time and time again! read more

Estella - Shorty and mash - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

My date and I came to Estella's on a cold December evening before heading to see a show at the Opera House nearby. We had reservations and were seated immediately. Our waitress, Yaz, was by within minutes to introduce herself, ensure we had water, and go over the menu with us. While reviewing the menu, we tried both their special Coco Rita and a Vodka Martini. They were both outstanding, and our waitress or the bartender took the time to stuff olives with blue cheese for us which was amazing. For dinner, we each had the Worrell Rasta Pasta Special. One with Chicken, and the other with Shrimp. We were both super impressed. We asked for the shrimp Cajun-style and it came out a bit too salty, but we've found that happens often with Cajun spices. Having a few minutes left after our meal before the show, we each enjoyed a few Espresso Martinis. Yaz had some fun with them, illustrating different things on top of them with a thin chocolate sauce. We'll absolutely be back when we're in the area again to try more! read more

Estella - Espresso Martini - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

We had a wonderful time at Estella tonight! Our server Hanae was wonderful. I was especially impressed with her awareness and contentiousness regarding food allergies. The food was all delicious! I got the Plum Waltz Margarita, the Lobster Parm Ravioli, and the Dulce de Leche lava cake. All was super delicious! The dessert especially was incredible. The ambience was very elevated and sophisticated while still modern. I highly recommend Estella! read more

Estella - Plum Waltz Margarita - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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The food was excellent. I found the lights to be a little too bright for my liking, and the table a bit small but overall excellent food. I got the salmon croissant. read more

Awful experience, went with my children & grandchildren for dinner before the Nutcracker. Had reservations for 5:15 at 7:10 still had not been served my meal. But that was probably a good thing, because anyone who did get their meal, it was either cold, uncooked, or inedible. The waitress had the nerve to bring us a check prior to my order even being brought out. NOT RECCOMENDED read more

Place was horrible. Our bartender didn't speak English. My food came out and my wife's never did and they didn't apologize. Do not go!

Wonderful dinner before a show! Thank you for wonderful and attentive service, Stephanie. We loved the lobster ravioli, burger and of course desserts! read more

Estella - Dolce de Leche lava cake - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

As another diner noted in their post, I really wanted to love this place as well, but absolutely did not. We came from the ballet to eat here because of the menu and the photos of the food we've seen. I ordered the surf and turf for $85 and it was literally the worst steak and lobster I've ever had. I don't know what they marinated the steak in, but it had no beef flavor left. If I had close my eyes, I wouldn't of known what I was eating. The seasoning flavor was so overpowering. And I asked for a medium and it seemed more medium well almost well done. The lobster was the most overcooked lobster I've ever had. I literally had to fight with it in order to cut it. Everything was so overcooked and over flavored, I didn't even wanna bother to complain. The steak marinade was salty and overpowering, and the lobster had some type of seasoning on it that was not good, along with the fact that the lobster was rubbery. My husband ordered the Lisbon burger and he liked it. So at least that was good. The cocktail was OK. I ordered a lemon drop and it didn't seem very strong. Definitely would not dine here again. Also, my husband ran out of Coke at one point and I had to eventually get up and find a waitress to ask her for his first refill, and to refill our water. Then we were told they ran out of Coke and then one showed up, and we tasted it and it was Pepsi but they said they had found Coke. We know the difference between Pepsi and . Just not very attentive at times. Beautiful looking food just overcooked, overpriced, and over seasoned! read more

Estella - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Estella is nestled in downtown Boston and delivers an exceptional dining experience that resonates with soulful vibes. As a Black-owned establishment, it not only tantalizes taste buds but also celebrates culture. The flavorsome menu echoes a symphony of delightful dishes, crafting a culinary journey worth savoring. The appetizers were really delicious and plentiful. For entrees I ordered the pan seared salmon and my dining companion ordered Shorty & Mash. The seared salmon at Estella was a highlight, tantalizingly seared to perfection...but, let's talk about the star of the show--the Butter Bond Cake. This dessert masterpiece is an indulgence of coconut, caramel, and velvety vanilla ice cream, harmonized with housemade raspberry puree. It's beautifully garnished with strawberries, blueberries, and mint. I've found myself daydreaming about returning solely for another encounter with this dessert sensation. Estella's Butter Bond Cake is undoubtedly a culinary masterpiece worth savoring time and again. The place was packed (in a good way) and I have no doubt it is always like that due to the amazing music, good food, and great service. read more

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Came here again to give it another try but this time I reserved a table instead of sitting at the bar. The food was great as always but manager? Maybe? was yelling at front staff at the desk. The young lady was trying to find a table for a large party and management started to raise their voice and give attitude. Very unprofessional. I think the problem is the managers not the staff. Need better communication or maybe new management. read more

great late on a thursday night relatively chill yet never know who might come thru sit by the bar and vibe vibe. chill bartenders; fun clientele. solid drinks. first timer, hardly worst time yuh. after the bartender patiently humored my cocktail choice musings, i landed on the watermelon mojito. good choice! refreshing, not overly sweet. $16 + tax. well worth the time and money for the good conversation and company. check it out here! friday night / weekend supposed to more lively, naturally. go team. read more

Estella - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I went there for dinner with my husband on a Friday night. We found their menu to be rather limited. We started with the calamari which was good. However, the entrees were mediocre at best. We also found their prices to be a little bit on the higher end & the portions were small. They were also out of a couple items. Our server was friendly & nice. The atmosphere was different & interesting. Not sure if I would go back again. read more

Perfect location for a meal before a show at the opera house. For such a narrow retail space - we found the noise levels actually not that bad for what you typically deal with in Boston. (It's always nice being able to hear the people your sitting with not competing with the noise coming from other tables) The Lychee martini was very good, I also had the blackened swordfish with cous cous which was cooked perfectly. The servers were very professional and the overall atmosphere was fitting for the location. The only issue we had was the heat level on the second floor was pretty high but not intolerable. read more

Estella - Blackened Swordfish - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I absolutely loved the dining experience at Estella. Everything was excellent! From the appetizers , fried Calamari and Crab cakes that did not disappoint. To our entrees which were even better. He had their seafood pasta which came in cream based sauce that didn't over power or drown out the flavor of the scallops or shrimp. I had the Hungarian Filet Migon and y'all I swear that steak is giving even the top Boston steak house a run for their money. But the star of the show for me? That espresso Martini!!! I order an espresso martini everywhere I go and this one here? The best I have ever had ... PERIOD!!! It's a must visit! read more

Estella - Table menu and espresso martini - American Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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