Silent Sunday: Sweet Basil

Entering Sweet Basil, which is located in Downtown Needham, I already had lofty expectations.  A close friend had raved about this neighborhood restaurant for years.  Needless to say, there was lots of room for disappointment.  But, alas, this was not the case.  And here are a few reasons why:

1. Upon arriving on a Tuesday evening (and it was packed), I was a bit early and needed to wait outside.  To please the crowds huddled by the door, servers brought everyone complementary bruschetta.  Never have I ever seen that kind of service.  It’s such a small touch, but it made everyone incredibly happy.

2. David Becker, owner and chef, not only keeps the kitchen in line, but he works front of the house too, greeting and seating guests.  This man is a gem.  He engages each person with warm conversation and is always full of laughs.

3. Everything is fresh and homemade.  The ingredients are sourced as locally as possible.  And they’re creative with their dishes (their watermelon gazpacho with housemade quark rocks my world… see photos above).

4. The artwork on the walls is gorgeous and it was all produced by David’s grandfather (see above).

5. The atmosphere is cozy and completely charming.  I’ve been so disappointed by the smaller, independently owned restaurants in Boston, and I’m so happy to have found a place that makes me feel welcomed.

6. See those bowls up there? David made those and the other plates displayed above.  Isn’t that amazing?

 

Sweet Basil

942 Great Plain Ave

Needham, MA 02492

781-444-9600

http://www.sweetbasilneedham.com/