marlo monthly august: boston dining & drinking deals
There's been article after webinar after podcast talking about the restaurant industry and the impact of COVID-19. Operators across the country continue to struggle, with no end in sight. It's a heartbreaking situation for millions, including those here in Boston whom we are proud to call friends. This issue of marlo monthly highlights just a few of those places that you can get out and support over the next month (while also being easy on your wallet) as they head toward an uncertain autumn.
As we shared last month, one of the ways we continue to evolve with the current situation is to think about how we can tailor our offerings to fill a need that may exist now more than before. Had to lay off an internal designer or entire creative team but still find yourself needing basic creative production services? Our Creative Production Packages were designed to fill that void. With three offerings beginning at just $500/month, we can step in until you're able to hire back your full team. Pop me a note today to get started!
Finally, we're still looking for office mates for our gorgeous office in DTX. If you've given up your space but need a home, we'd love to share ours. As much as we've embraced the work from home lifestyle, we also believe the energy and benefit of the traditional office environment is alive and well. If you or anyone you know may be looking -- even if not 'til later this year or 2021, please reach out!
mariel
In the spring, our hopes of jetting off to a Caribbean beach to de-stress come fall were still very much alive. Now that we've come to terms with the fact that we won't be boarding a plane anytime soon, we are satisfying our travel itch by visiting some of Boston's internationally inspired restaurants that make us feel like we have landed far, far away. First stop: Mariel in Post Office Square.
One step into this Cuban paradise and you'll be transported to pre-revolutionary Havana (did we mention you'd also be time traveling?!). The decayed elegance of the décor, culturally inspired dishes and rum-heavy cocktail menu offer an escape from reality that we so desperately need right now. To complement your Daiquiri, delight in the Havana Happy Hour menu, available on Tuesdays from 5-7PM. The menu rotates, but expect such masterful dishes as crispy tofu, tostadas, cheese street pizza, Cubano tacos and more, for only $5.
The bad news: you'll have to return to the real world at some point. The good news: you can escape to Mariel whenever you'd like, no airfare required!
bodega canal
As a team that has been well-acquainted with the dining scene for quite some time, "Taco Tuesday" has become a frequently used phrase in our lexicon (along with "don't stop 'til you're proud," natch). If amusing alliteration and faux foodie "holidays" = sweet deals on delicious eats, we're on board. But we're not biased -- we'll take a deal on our favorite Mexican fare any day of the week.
Bodega Canal in the West End is switching it up and serving All-You-Can-Eat Tacos for $9 on Wednesdays. Choose between chicken, beef or veggie, and top with all the accompaniments your heart desires.
Thanks to our friends on Canal Street, Hump Day just became a lot more than "the day after Taco Tuesday."
tony & elaine's
Picture this: the house has been filled with the delicious aroma of Nonna's famous "gravy" and freshly baked bread. Heaping portions of pasta are passed around the crowded table. There may be some very loud talking (okay, okay -- a lot of loud talking) accompanied by animated hand gestures. Yep, it's Sunday dinner at Grandma's.
But sometimes Nonna needs a night off, and in that case, venture over to the North End to Tony & Elaine's. Tucked away off of N. Washington Street is a charming little patio with plenty of room for the whole family (in addition to socially distanced indoor dining). The friendly (non-yelling) crew will serve you All-You-Can-Eat Pasta (your choice of noodle & sauce) for $24.99 on Sundays.
So, leave the cooking to Tony and crew -- just don't tell Nonna if the meatballs are better than hers or this may be your 'last supper.'
state street provisions
With patio season cut short this year (thanks, COVID), we are psyched to see some of our go-to restos re-opening just in time for us to dine al fresco before the harsh New England winter creeps in. With a prime locale on Long Wharf, State Street Provisions is our kinda place!
Snag a spot on the extended patio, order an Aperol Spritz, and take in the beauty of our city's historic waterfront. As if the views weren't enough, on Thursday through Sunday from 4 - 6PM, enjoy a rotating selection of dollar oysters including Wellfleet, First Lights, and more.
After filling your belly with inspired seafood dishes and refreshing cocktails, take a stroll on the Harbor Walk and relish every breath of that fresh summer air. Before we know it, winter will rear her ugly head...and that b*tch ain't out to make friends.
russell house tavern
"No bar, no problem" has been the motto of our beloved friends in hospitality this year. With a little creativity mixed with some kickass bartending, they've made it possible for us to sip our fave summer cocktails safely while not bellying up.
One of the OG visionaries to come out of COVID is Russell House Tavern and their sidewalk Lemonade Stand (sorry, youngins -- this one's for the big kids). Choose between large format to-go cocktails, frozen Irish coffee, adult freeze pops, sorbet floats, craft beer, and more. There's also something called 'irresponsible lemonade,' which we think speaks for itself.
Paired with dollar oysters Monday - Thursday from 4 - 6PM (and a mask, of course), there's no better way to get your drink on all month long. Until Gov. Baker gives bars the green light, we're sticking with our trusty friends who have perfected the pivot -- cheers to you guys!
m.blog: july
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From influencer engagement for national snack brands to website design for restaurants to public relations for iconic beer brands, we cover a lot of ground. In industry lingo, we’re considered a full-service integrated consumer marketing agency that specializes in all things hospitality, food & beverage and lifestyle. In our lingo? We just get sh*t done. Send me an email (Yes, me! [email protected]) if you'd like to connect to discuss how we can help you build your brand in the most effective and impactful way possible while delivering ROI on your marketing spend.