Yvonne’s, Boston

Fans of the old fashioned might have mourned the closing of John F. Kennedy’s favorite Boston restaurant, Locke-Ober, but we think the new Yvonne’s that just opened in its place would have pleased the former President.

After an extensive renovation, the new restaurant, which is located just off of the Park Street subway stop, near Boston Common, has a chic see-and-be-scene vibe with decor, food and cocktails that match. The dimly-lit library has a few tables that open onto the expansive, ornate wooden bar (mostly original from Locke-Ober’s time), while the dining room offers a slightly more reserved experience with tables and booths situated underneath glittering chandeliers and provocative art (think Renaissance figures taking cell phone selfies).

Try the Grand Dame, with Don Julio blanco, ancho chile, lime and cucumber; or the 1989 with Ketel One, lavender, elderflower, celery and Champagne. Dining with friends? Spring for one of the large format cocktails, like the Boston Rum Punch, with your choice of Massachusetts rum: Privateer silver, Bully Boy amber or Twenty Boat Spiced and fancy lemon syrup and lemon.

Plates are encouraged to be shared and for dinner opt for the Pork Belly “Sisig” with shishito peppers; the grilled octopus with smoked Harissa and shaved fennel; and the lamb sausage stone-fired pitas, a fun take on traditional pizza. Save room for dessert like the Negroni drumstick, a sweet, frozen take on the popular cocktail.

2 Winter Pl

Boston, MA

tel 617 267 0047