Ask the Editor: Where to Host an Outdoor Baby Shower in Boston
This parent-to-be is looking for a restaurant to host a low-key, family-friendly party this summer.
Welcome to Ask the Editor, Boston magazine’s dining advice column. Need a restaurant recommendation? Ask a pro.
Plan for a sun-soaked patio shower at Bella Luna & the Milky Way Lounge in Jamaica Plain. / Photo via Facebook / Bella Luna
Question:
Where is a nice place to have a low-key summertime baby shower? Not too expensive, kids will probably attend, and ideally would be a patio.
—L.W.
As summer sets in and many folks get out of town on the weekends, now is an ideal time to plan a party at a Boston-area restaurant. Considering your parameters, here are a few ideas that come to mind in Boston, south of downtown, and north of the river.
Consider the colorful, coastally inspired Citrus & Salt for a family-friendly fiesta, though it doesn’t have a very large patio. But it is bright and airy inside, with white-washed finishes and pastel florals and tiles in the main room, as well as a separate, private area your party could rent for up to 40 guests. The spread could include house-fried chips and guacamole; warm agave-glazed blue corn biscuits and cinnamon butter; grilled chicken tacos with pineapple pico; and more summer- and kid-friendly fare. The guest of honor might enjoy a creative mocktail or two, with options like a blueberry-vanilla agua fresca. (142 Berkley St., Boston, 833-324-8787, citrusandsaltboston.com)
Set on sitting outside? Citrus & Salt’s sister restaurant Buttermilk & Bourbon has a great patio lounge that can host up to 40 guests for a New Orleans-inspired party—complete with soft-serve mimosas and fresh-fried beignets, of course. (160 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-266-1122, buttermilkbourbon.com)
Head off the beaten path to the Stony Brook area of Jamaica Plain to host a pizza party—with plenty of parking. Bella Luna & the Milky Way Lounge is a vibrant venue with several private options for groups of 30-130, including a large and lovely patio (pictured). The crowd-pleasing menu ranges from snacks like “figs in a blanket,” and braised short rib nachos; entrees like grilled salmon, and spring ricotta gnocchi; to loaded salads and pizzas. Buffets are an option here, for as little as $20 per person (plus the cost of the space rental) for an appetizer, salad, and pizza spread. (84 Amory St., Jamaica Plain, 617-524-6060, milkywayjp.com)
Gather in Cambridge to celebrate on the rooftop of the Sinclair. The music venue and two-level restaurant offers several places to party, including the 52-seat outdoor deck, and private spaces inside for groups of 30-150. Brunch-friendly fare like chicken and waffles, mini doughnuts, and fresh salads drizzled in avocado green goddess dressing could comprise your daytime shower menu, with pitchers of Sinclair Sangria and iced tea flowing for guests. (52 Church St., Harvard Square, Cambridge, 617-547-5200, sinclaircambridge.com)
All of these suggested restaurants employ people on staff to customize your party plans and menu to fit your budget and vision. Best of luck with the event—and with the arrival of the little bundle of joy!
