Right upon entering the restaurant I knew I was going to enjoy the vibe. It's cute. Inviting. So minimal on it's decor but all works well with the furnishing and general theme. The brand feels genuine to both the owners and the food. It is carried throughout every square inch of the place. New, hip, but not trying too hard.
The drinks were delightful, we got the Zest of Grass (gin and bergomot cocktail) and White (gin floral cocktail). Both were sophisticated and way too good (drank them too fast). We thoroughly enjoy them and they were made expeditiously. Worth coming back just for drinks alone!
We started with the Mango Shrimp. Though it's a small portion to share, it was packed with delicate and balanced flavor. It's made with a mango mouse, perfectly tart to balance the light flakey fried crust. Fresh herbs and jelepeno help every bite feel intentional and worth savoring.
Spinny chairs are so cute. We sat in the window.
The wait staff were kind, welcoming, and wore the most aesthetic branded uniforms (not important but very much appreciated). Helped us when we had questions, and made us feel at home!
Bathroom was spotless and also well decorated!
I had the New England Fish Sandwich and was thoroughly satisfied with my choice. The fry was crispy and flavorful, the fish was nothing fancy but tasted really great, the bun held together and the slaw gave a nice balance to the otherwise heavy dish. The most lovely detail was the heart shaped skewer that kept everything together! ❤️
My partner got the Crab Conchiglioni which was lovely and well seasoned. Almost doesn't need lemon but the acidity helps cut through the fried outside. The crab is very crabby (positive) and was very tasty. The basil powder brings an unexpected but welcome freshness. And the spinach(?) gives a nice bed of refreshing greenery to let the rich grab rely on for relief. Very filling and I crave more!
Definitely coming back soon! Could not recommend enough if you're looking for a casual, medium priced seafood spot!
Boxfish is a lovely local neighborhood restaurant that gives good food at great prices.
It is owned by the same family that operates another Watertown staple Cha Yen, and they keep the same level of quality in both food and service here as well. The clam chowder and lobster bisque were delicious and very reasonably priced, and the miso cod was delicious and super savory!
Boxfish is the warm and welcoming restaurant that helps bring locals in the community together when we list off all the places we like to eat. Will be back soon
I visited Box Fish for the first time yesterday, and everything that touched our table was a 10/10. I honestly have no complaints. Our server was beyond amazing super responsive, answered all of our questions, and even brought out samples for me to try. The space is small but intimate, making it perfect for a date night or even catching up with a friend. Everything on the menu was incredible. As a seafood lover, I’m so happy to finally find a spot in my area that actually lived up to all the hype. I’ll definitely be coming back at least once a month!
Went with a friend during their soft opening, and everything was amazing!!
The octopus was flavorful and tender, the oysters were super fresh (they gave us two options, though I don’t remember exactly what they were—we went with the staff’s recommendation), and the lobster roll was well-seasoned. Everything was reasonably priced with decent portions.
For dessert, we had the pecan ice cream and it was delicious! Not overly sweet, with lots of pecan chunks inside—such a perfect little sweet treat after a meal.
The staff were really friendly and happy to answer any questions we had. The restaurant decor is also really nice—super vibey with great music. Perfect for a date or for a nice meal with family and friends.
The food is interesting. You go in not really expecting Thai flavors but then it hits you for the scallop squid ink pasta (tastes like tom yum but works). Some of which don’t work as well like the soft shell crab batter. Cocktails were good. Overall, almost felt like a hit or miss in terms of food taste, portion, and price. Definitely worth a try.
