Love coming here . My go to spot fir good food and cocktails and great atmosphere. The staff and owner are so friendly. Everyone seems happy to be working there . Great neighborhood restaurant/pub . read more

I didn't plan on blogging about it. I didn't even take any photos. It was simply going to be dinner on a rainy night after my American Institute of Wine Food Board meeting, a new monthly tradition that my husband and I have started. Since my meetings are at Newbury College, dinner in Brookline makes the most sense. Last time we had a great (unblogged) meal at American Craft, and this time, we tried The Abbey. Let me first start by saying that I needed cheering up. Remember the time my Trader Joe's bag ripped on Boylston Street. Well I know I will never trust a Trader Joe's bag again. I usually bring my own bags when I go shopping, but in both of these cases, I was out and about and decided to grab groceries because I was in the neighborhood. It was also my turn to bring food to the Board meeting. I found myself walking up the giant hill to Newbury College in the pouring rain with three heavy, PAPER bags. Which quickly disintegrated in the rain, first the handles ripping off, the boxes of crackers poking out the sides, and then every single grocery item going splat on the sidewalk. Multiple curse words later, I was on the ground recovering the items, wrapping them in what was left of the paper bags, and carrying them in my arms the rest of the way. It was so not fun. Did I mention the nagging chest cold I have? Dinner out was a much-needed respite from the stress and a chance to really see my husband. I have been away on my own for two weekends in a row, and I missed him! We arrived at The Abbey in a total downpour and were told there was about a 20 minute wait for a table. We opted to wait at the bar, ordering a Harpoon Oyster Stout to keep us busy while we waited. The bartender was incredibly friendly and helpful, and The Abbey has a literal book of beer, wine, and cocktails. Our table was ready in no time, and we took our seats in the cozy, very dimly lit dining area. Our waitress was very sweet and attentive throughout the entire meal. The Abbey's menu is not large, but somehow we still had a hard time deciding on what to order. So many things looked delicious! I knew I had to have a charred Caesar salad. Ever since lunch at Diavola a very long time ago (I need to get back!) , I have ordered every grilled salad I could find. This one was exceptional. It was charred on the outside, warm on the inside, but still crunchy enough, doused with creamy dressing and coated with nutty parmesan. For our entrees, we decided to share the mussels with white wine and garlic and shoestring potatoes and the bison Bolognese with fresh linguini. I also ordered a delicious cocktail, the Channel Lox - Irish whiskey, scotch, simple syrup, lemon juice, bitters. This cocktail was nothing short of amazing. Tart lemon juice perfectly balanced the whiskey and bitters. It was delicious. The food. . . we were out for a quick dinner, and I really wasn't even thinking that I might discover new favorite dishes. The food was fantastic. The mussels were nestled in with shoestring fries in a light, garlicky sauce. The bison Bolognese was rich, spicy, filling, with perfectly al dente linguine. Spearing bits of the Bolognese sauce after twirling long pasta noodles around my fork provided such warmth and comfort as the rain was absolutely pouring down in buckets outside. Our experience at The Abbey was simply outstanding. I wish I had taken photos, but it was nice to just focus on my company and the food. We will definitely be back! read more

Went to The Abbey with a friend recently and had a really impressive dinner. We first started with drinks. The Rose of Jalisco was good and stronger than you would think. The Rye Mash was ok - I switched to The Fearless King halfway through dinner and that drink was way better! For apps, we got the truffel fries and brussel sprouts. truffle fries = awesome. brussel sprouts = even awesomer than that. trust me and try them...even if you dont like brussel sprouts. you will after you have them a la Abbey. Bison bolognese was the main course...soooo delicious!!! Had a hint of spicy, which gave it a little extra something. And the bolognese is way better with a slightly gamier meat like bison. On top of the fantastic food, we had two great waitresses - one for drinks and one for food. Both of them were super attentive without being overly attentive and offered excellent suggestions!! I'll definitely be back!! read more

Second time back at The Abbey and as good as ever!! Stopped by Graduation weekend and even though it was busy, staff and food were excellent. Enjoyed the cod fritters again, tomato soup and grilled cheese on the best bread. Hope to stop by again!! read more

By far one of my favorite places in the area and it has never let me down. I live right around the corner and it is my go to spot if I don't feel like taking the T. I have only tried the seafood dishes; Trout, Haddock Special, and most recently the Cod and all were top notch. No matter what when you sit they spoil you with ice cold water and some excellent bread, hummus, and olive oil. It could easily pass for a small appetizer! I have not tried too many of the other dishes but I would bet $10 that they are amazing. And best of all, even when its packed on a friday night you always get your beers in a jiffy. Great little spot read more

The Abbey is a warm and friendly neighborhood staple. The staff is attentive and welcoming and the food is great (The sweet corn bisque is so good that I've ordered it twice even during 90 degree heat). I've been here more times than I can count and I've always had a wonderful experience. read more

My boyfriend and I tried to eat here on a Friday night once - big mistake! It's small and the wait was stomach-eating-itself inducing. So we ventured over yesterday for a late lunch and were happily seated promptly. I ordered the Cuban sandwich, he the avocado grilled chicken on brioche. I perused the draft/bottle menu, but didn't opt for a drink. Draft list was solid (60 minute, some local brews-Berkshire, CBC) but nothing too enticing. Granted, Thanksgiving with my family is heavy on craft beer, maybe I needed a detox? I was really surprised by the Cuban. The panini bread was thick and hearty and the pork appeared to come from a roasted shoulder. The quality was really good. It was also quite large and I was able to take the other half home. We also both loved the fries -- thin and a combination of crispy and soft. The small pieces tasted almost like those potato stix that came in a cardboard cylinder. Felt like we were on the playground... I was told that the grilled chicken and avocado was really simple, but that's what he wanted. We both left satisfied and glad that we tried the restaurant. I don't think I'd try on a Friday or Saturday night, but I would definitely return. read more

The staff was very friendly and accommodating! I ordered the pumpkin lasagna and my bf ordered the bolognese. Both were delicious :) definitely worth a return visit read more

The Abbey - Pasta bolognese - New American Near Me - Brookline, Massachusetts

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I usually stay away from Washington square restaurants because they have a tendency to be pricy, but I decided to give the Abbey a shot and it did not disappoint! I got the burger which was really good and our cod fritters app was good as well. We had to wait a little for a table (the restaurant is a little small and it was a Saturday night) but it wasn't too long and less of a wait than the publick house across the street (we put our names in there too). I will probably be a little more daring w/ my order next time now that I know the quality of the food. If you live in the Brookline area, give this place a try! read more

I'm glad I didn't read my last review before I went to The Abbey over the weekend, because I probably would not have gone, and we ended up having a decent meal there on Friday night. We sat outside, which is so nice because they are on the sunny side of the street in the summer evenings. We had beers and burgers. I like the skinny, crispy fries that come with the burger. My burger was a bit overcooked, and my partner a bit undercooked, but the flavor was good when I added lots of mayo, mustard, and ketchup. The hostess was so lovely as was our waitress. So the food isn't great, but sitting in the setting sun on a June evening having a beer made everything seem pretty good. :) read more

This was honestly the worst restaurant I've ever been to. They refused to feed us and the wait staff was incredibly rude. I would not recommend this terrible restaurant that has awful food and the meanest wait staff. read more

Great nook of a restaurant. At home atmosphere in a dark yet welcoming existence. The kitchen is pretty much visible from all of the floor while the bar area melds into the dining area easily. That being said, space can be an issue but the nightly/ seasonal specials and standard menu staples keep this place my haunt. Also a small but solid beer list and bar crew who can make some tasty cocktails. Lamb lollipops, shaved brussels, bison bolognese and roasted cod are always a hit. read more

Such a great spot to stop for a beer and AMAZING food on a Friday afternoon. Staff so welcoming and the service was amazing!!

We've been here a bunch of times and always had a delicious meal. The pan roasted cod is always a crowd pleaser. Only drawback is the small space. If there is a wait, you are definitely feeling like you are in everyone's way. Happy to see a new place that is keeping it's tables full though. read more

I've gotta say I agree with a previous poster's "meh". I feel like this place tries too hard. It's crazy crowded/loud, the service is mediocre, and the food isn't worth the price you pay for it. I went with a friend for dinner one night and we decided it wasn't really worth it. And their hours leave me wary. While being able to grab dinner as late as 1:30am can be good sometimes, I question whether the increase in late night noise (think past 2-3am) in Washington Square this summer (and the headaches it can give the families here) has something to do with the Abbey's late hours. read more

I've eaten at The Abbey a few times and have never been dissappointed. It's a beautifully decorated and well-apportioned small space with a pub-feel. You can stop in for a drink or have a meal. But you'll want to stay for a meal! The food is quite simply delicious and prepared to perfection. I've thoroughly enjoyed each meal I've had here and can't wait to go back! They have a wonderful wine selection too including a marvelous temperanillo. read more

Went here for lunch today, and don't think I'll go back. I had the crab cake sandwich. At first it tasted good because I was insanely hungry, but then I started to notice how salty it was. I actually couldn't finish it (I always finish everything!), and it gave me muscle aches and a headache for hours after eating it. It was way too salty. The fries were really good. The iced tea was also really good (well, it was), and they had free refills. The waitress also said they have real coke products, which seems to be getting rare these days (seems like lots of bar type restaurants only have nasty bar coke). The service was pretty bad. The waitress seemed downright pissed off. She was the only waitress and the place was pretty busy with lots of people sitting outside, so I kind of understand why she wasn't in a great mood. But she seemed almost aggressive. I don't expect the world from waiters, but she made me feel totally unwelcome and uncomfortable. Everything also took forever because she was the only waitress. I don't understand why people are saying the atmosphere is cozy. I was there during the day, not the coziest time I guess, but I thought the place seemed very cold and sparsely decorated. Not at all what I imaged when I passed this place many times before. They really should do something to warm the place up! In summary, way too salty food, and mean service. Yikes! Three stars though because in fairness I've only been there once. read more

I have been here several times, and each time is just as delicious as the one before! The restaurant is small so on the weekends it is very crowded for dinner, but it is a fun, hip atmosphere and the food and cocktails are worth the wait (although you can call ahead and put your name on the list!) You must try the truffle fries with garlic Aoli! The cocktails are creative, they have a nice variety of craft beer, and the menu changes frequently. I usually share some of the appetizer and small plates between the table, and it always works out wonderfully. Definitely highly recommend this great Brookline spot! only downfall is that they have no dessert! Bummer for those of us who adore dessert. read more

A friend and I came here for lunch a while ago, looking for a new spot in the area (after becoming dissatisfied by the food at a certain beer centered restaurant across the street) Since that lunch I've been back a number of time, although not as much as my friend who should probably have her own reserved bar stool at this point. Food: I think i had the burger the first time, since then I've tried the famous bolognese (absolutely worth it!), the deviled eggs, several pizzas (the smoked tomato and mozzarella one was great!), and much more. Drinks: Very nice seasonal selection of draft and bottled beer, great local breweries. I've seen Allagash, BBC, Wachusett, and many others. Bartenders know their beers. Cocktails are very nice, I've only had one, but friend swears by them. Wine list looks good, but I haven't tried any of them. Overall: This is a great addition to the area, the atmosphere is lively and upbeat. Trendy but not at all pretentious. All of the staff is very friendly. Final Thoughts: Go, you'll like it. read more

Had a nice dinner here last night... very professional wait-staff to greet you, manage your table wait (only 10 minutes as promised) and take/deliver your order quickly and accurately. We shared the bison bolognese and steamed mussels appetizer, asked that they both come out at once and they did. Ambiance is decent... noisy as you might expect but nothing outrageous. Some mildly interesting offerings on the menu... enough to entice a return for some but also offering dishes that are familiar enough for the less adventuresome. Our mussels were fresh and perfectly done... nice broth and chorizo. There was a pile of tasty freshly hand cut string fries in the center of the dish... unexpected but welcome. The bolognese was meaty, rich, full flavored and substantial. Nice portion size, presentation and served good and hot. However we both felt as if the cook accidentally dropped the salt shaker into the dish... just crazy salty. We did mention this to the waitstaff to ask if anyone else made note of this... she said typically she does not hear that but that it does get mentioned and that she would let the cooks know. She was very gracious and very professional in handling our comment... this is a well-managed restaurant. We both felt that The Abbey was good dining and a good value, and while we would eat here again if in the neighborhood and looking for a decent meal but there is nothing to compel us to return. More interesting offerings and perhaps better preparation at the Regal Beagle in Coolidge Corner for about the same price... read more

The Abbey is my "go to"- for drinks, for food & for a social environment with a great staff. It's close to work and one of the few Restuarant /bars open before 5pm during the week. Their lunch and dinner menus offer comfort food with a twist - their grilled cheese & tomato soup is a winter fav! Each day provides an appetizer, entree & flatbread special! Last night I met a couple friends for dinner and an escape from the rainy weather- we endulged in some fried cheese curds with a tomato sirracha sauce, chicken wings, chicken & corn dumplings and white wine mussels - all before our entrees of a cheese burger & the flatbread special which was a white pizza with cartelized onions, goat cheese & roasted tomatoes (of course I added bacon to that!!)... Couldn't have thought of a better way to stay warm and dry!! read more

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My absolute favorite place in Boston for lunch, dinner, late night, or whenever! The delicious food (burger with truffle fries and garlic mayo or roasted cod or any of these amazing dishes) are complimented by a diverse beer selection. The Abbey is one of the few places anywhere to have have Allagash White on draft and Dogfish 60 or 90 minute on draft. And to top it all off, the waitresses and bartenders are fantastic! read more

The Abbey - Truffle fries with garlic mayo - New American Near Me - Brookline, Massachusetts

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The only reason this place doesn't get 5 stars from me is that there is always a wicked long wait time for a table...but if anything, its a sign to how good the food truly is. This is a cozy, small place that I think is perfect for a date night. Although it can be a little loud in there, there's something romantic about it in a weird way. I have gotten the bison bolognese each time I have come here because it really is that awesome. Perfect for a chilly fall night. My boyfriend is a little more adventurous always get something different which means I have tried half the menu...cant complain about any of it! Good cocktail selection too! read more

Good vibes, great menu! The cocktails were strong and reasonably priced. Instead of an entree I ordered the Kale/Brussels sprouts salad with duck egg with a side of broccolini, which was all delicious! I will say there are not many vegetarian options, but I had plenty of food. My friends loved their burger and truffle fries with the awesome homemade mayo sauce. I definitely plan to return to try more of their creative and flavorful meals! read more

What a pleasant surprise of a find! My friend and I had intentions to go to Publick House across the street, but at the time they were only serving drinks. The doorman suggested that we go to the Abbey and I'm glad that he did. The drinks were well crafted, and we got about 5 items to share between us. Everything was really well done and came out fast. The Lamb Poutine was just loaded with flavor as was the special pizza of the night, consisting of soprasatta, fresh mozz and black olives. Really glad I stumbled upon this place because now I can't wait to go back and show others the warm atmosphere, attentive service and awesome food. read more

This review is solely for the Bison Bolognese. 5 stars, amazing, delicious, just the perfect amount of spice, topped with a wonderful pile of grated cheese. A MUST HAVE when visiting The Abbey! read more

Pathetic group of locals dominate the bar and are way over served. Bartenders with attitude and subpar food. The Cambridge location is much better!!! Stay away read more

It is most definitely a small place but always worth the wait! It is a cute, intimate place for a date night or just going out with friends. The menu is small and unique. The bison bolognese is a must-try, homemade pasta! They serve bread with this flavored butter that is amazing. Drinks are always good and the bartenders are very friendly! I've also had their risotto, sausage spring rolls (amazing!), and cod fritters. I would recommend them all. Menu changes periodically and they keep fresh ingredients! :) read more

One of our favorite restaurants -been going for almost a decade. Used to live right down the street now a few miles away, but we went a lot this Summer and Fall and the outdoor seating set up was great! Food (especially Bison Bolognese) and cocktails are delicious - great generous sizes. We will be ordering out from here to support them during the upcoming winter since Brookline is closing down outdoor dining December 7th. So long as indoor seating stays open for all the struggling restaurants in Bos/Brookline area, I would recommend the Abbey start taking reservations after 12/7 (thru Resy or something similar to a few other restaurants in the area who used to not take reservations, but the pandemic kinda forces the change). This could help keep the right amount of tables and avoid people waiting outside in cold for a table. read more

Great food, good variety, like the interior of the place, it is small but very smart layout.

Love The Abbey. Food and service are consistently great. My only complaint is that it's tough to get a table, unless you arrive early. Wish they'd knock Dunkin Donuts out and expand. If you go, try the lamb lolipops. Delish. The crab cake appetizers were also a nice treat. This neighborhood place is consistently great! read more

Great customer service. Great flatbread pizza. Small place but plan on going back. Nice area

Both drink and food menus had interesting choices and everything we ordered was perfectly made, I'd go back for that alone. What really brought me here to write a review though was how amazing the entire staff was. This is a small restaurant so as I huddled just inside the door with my party of 2 the bar tender went out of his way on a busy Saturday night to grab our attention, past his busy bar, to ask if we wanted a drink menu. The woman who was sitting everyone (and seemed to be helping with lots of things) made a point to check in with us to tell us the ETA on when we would be seated and also offered to take our drink order, urging that it was no problem for them to ensure that our tab follow us, no need to cash out in different places. Once we sat down our waitress was also lovely to us, very connected, calm, and just a pleasure to chat with. There were also some other staff on the floor who jumped in to take an additional order of food for us when they noticed, without our calling anybody's attention, we might be looking to order more. And on the way out the door, one of the women ran out on a 17 degree night to make sure we didn't forget to take our leftovers we had boxed up. If the food and drinks were terrible I'd honestly be back to give it another shot just to have such an enjoyable evening. read more

My wife and I went to the Abbey on a Monday night, after flying home from the west coast, and were surprised to find it so crowded on what is normally a slower night. We loved the dark atmosphere; it was pretty lively, but not loud. We were not overly excited by the menu, but the food was all very good and nicely presented. They offer small plates (which we didn't try because they were all fried), appetizers, and entrees, plus some side dishes. We had only appetizers and one side dish -- the cauliflower soup, the charred Caesar salad, the stuffed calamari, the shredded brussels sprouts, and the lamb popsicles. All were very good and well presented. It is a great place to pick the size of the meal you want; not the usual over-sized portions. I debated between 3 and 4 stars; I went with 3 based on the service, which was very friendly, but mixed. Our server seemed inexperienced and communication was a bit of an issue. On the other hand, another person (the manager?) also served us and she was great. They have only been open about a month, so I expect them to iron out these minor issues. Overall, it was a nice experience and I would go back. read more

I went here on their opening night, and I was not particularly impressed. The service was slow and confused. I went back again two weeks ago, thinking that maybe they had gotten into the "groove", but no such luck. The wine list, though expansive, is extremely over-priced. The food is also overpriced for what you get. I had a piece of halibut that was overcooked. The sauce tasted like strawberry jelly - way too sweet and harsh for such a delicate fish. For $11, the cheeseburger is mediocre at best. It's too bad. The Abbey could have come into the neighborhood with prices and quality that beat Wash Sq Tavern and Fireplace, which are both overpriced and overrated in my opinion. Instead, they chose to add to the sorry list of restaurants in Washington Square. I guess that's what you get in Brookline. read more

This place is a gem. Never a bad experience here. Food is phenomenal. The bison bolognese is to die for! I've had many of the items on their menus and have loved every one of them. Its a really cool atmosphere - they're open late, and so is their kitchen! Great beer, wine, and cocktails. I love this place. The only negative thing is they don't do reservations. So plan ahead and don't come with a large party. It's so worth the wait. No dessert menu, but maybe that will change? read more

I went for dinner with my best friend on a weekday. It's not a big place, with 6-7 tables and 10 seats at the bar. People started to line up around 7:30pm. Sautéed mussels with pork belly and frites is a must do appetizers. We got Pork chop and Cod for Entrees, pretty satisfied. For drinks, we both like the Chimay White. Will come back and try some other dishes. read more

This is a great local bar/restaurant. The inside is small but worth the wait. We started with truffle fries and a salad. The fries were outstanding. For dinner I had the bolognese which is different but an excellent choice with a mixture of spicy, cheese, savory flavored. My wife had the burger which was great. Overall a great place! read more

The Abbey - New American Near Me - Brookline, Massachusetts

get the bison bolognese. just trust me. I wish i had. I came here with a friend and we like to try new restaurants. I got the mushroom mac and cheese... which was just okay. Too much mushroom (and that's coming from a mushroom lover). On the other hand, the lamb pops, crispy pork belly, truffle fries, and bison bolognese were FANTASTIC. Definitely coming back. and it's awesome because it's right around the corner from my place. Sweet! read more

Our new favorite restaurant. We've been going weekly since having our son 3 months ago. They are really friendly, we always get a seat (we eat early with the baby!), and food/beer is amazing here. Lung is also awesome. Everything I've gotten for food here is spectacular. Try the Statler Chicken or the burger (with a side of shaved Brussels sprouts). And the Maine Beer Co. Peeper Ale is read more