New American Cusine in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts

Long regarded a hot spot for eclectic dining, Jamaica Plain, a funky, diverse neighborhood in the City of Boston, now boasts two restaurants serving "new American" cuisine. Zon's and the Centre Street Cafe. Can they live up to the neighborhood's reputation for offering delicious fare with a flair?

Zon's

The new kid in town, Zon's is dark, moody and terribly, terribly chic. The waitstaff look as if they're working to stay ahead of their MassArt tuition, or to get that Les Paul out of hock.

But how's the food?

If your Mom listens to Joy Division and still has her navel pierced, you could definately call the menu "Mom's home cooking." Meatloaf, mac & cheese (with or without sausage or peas), roast chicken and pasta grace the menu. The pasta with smoked salmon in lemon cream sauce is particularly tantalizing.

For starters, the offerings range from simple salads to the more exotic (check out the roasted beets with blue cheese mousse). And if it's a burger you crave, you have surloin, lamb of turkey to choose from.

Although at times the coolness of it all can be almost stifling, the cuisine stands out to make Zon's a satisfying dining experience.

Average price $18.00 for entrees. Wine and beer served.

Open for dinner Mon-Sun.

2 Perkins Street
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
(617) 524-ZONS

Centre Street Cafe

A tiny restaurant in the heart of JP, the Centre Street Cafe is well known for its line of happy patrons awaiting to be beaconed inside. An organic, slightly bohemian atmosphere complements the earthy menu and gregarious service.

Boasting an ever changing daily menu (which is generally as long as the regular menu), Centre Street offers specials such as eggs benedict with smoked salmon and breakfast tostadas. Both are delicous. From the regular menu, the chicken stir-fry is always fantastic, and for a special treat, try the Potatoes Santa Cruz. The ingredients are always fresh, and organic produce is used whenever possible.

Admittedly, the wait for a table is more charming in the warmer months, but during the winter, the self-serve coffee station will help thaw you out once inside.

Average price $15.00 for entrees. Wine and beer served.

Open for dinner Mon-Sun, brunch Sat-Sun.

669A Centre Street
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
(617) 524-9217