Shrewsbury Street: A Mecca for the Diverse Palate
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Shrewsbury Street, dubbed Worcester’s Restaurant Row, boasts a long and vibrant history. Once settled by the Irish, Shrewsbury Street eventually became Worcester's own "Little Italy." Today Shrewsbury Street is still renowned for its many Italian restaurants and bakeries. While Shrewsbury Street has become a destination, it still retains a lot of its original neighborhood charm.
Worcester Restaurant Group has two of the most notable eateries on the street. Via Italian Table is a restaurant that is as appealing for families and romantic dinners as it is the singles crowd. Exceptional Italian food is presented in a sophisticated but charming urban setting. A large three-season porch adds additional atmosphere and allows al fresco dining much of the year.
One Eleven Chop House, the second restaurant, is the embodiment of its original concept, which was to establish a Chicago-style steakhouse in the heart of New England. This classy establishment is a great choice for a neighborhood cocktail at the bar or an elegant night out on the town.
Mezcal Tequilla Cantina gets high mark from foodies as the place to go for upscale Mexican food. Mezcal is owned by Niche Hospitality Group, which is also known for its sophisticated Worcester eateries.
Harkening back to the street’s Italian history, Piccolo’s serves delicious traditional Italian cuisine in a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. The Sinatra soundtrack, exposed brick and a tin ceiling in this former bank building bring back Worcester’s Little Italy. Piccolo’s is the perfect place to savor a glass of good wine and an eclectic and friendly clientele.
You can enjoy a table outside at Via Italian Table
Shrewsbury Street also entices visitors year round with a series of great events. The Taste of Shrewsbury Street gives visitors a chance to buy a button and sample specialties from restaurants up and down the 1.5-mile stretch. Other events include the Holiday Stroll, Columbus Days, Shrewsbury Street College Shuffle, Oktoberfest and the Shrewsbury Street Walk & Rock.
The Street’s welcoming and bustling feel is evident day or night to all who visit. Shrewsbury Street is centrally located within walking distance of downtown, UMass Memorial, the DCU Center, area hotels and the newly renovated Union Train Station.
A thriving nightlife has made Shrewsbury Street the place to be in Worcester when the sun goes down.
Insider Tip:
Many Street restaurants offer complimentary valet service and restaurant-owned parking lots. Additionally, find municipal parking lots located on Albany Street (behind Mac’s Diner and clearly marked with “P” signage), on Fantasia Street and Nebraska Street. There is always free street-side parking; on the weekends it is first-come, first-serve, however.
For a complete listing of Shrewsbury Street restaurants and events, log on to www.shrewsbury street.com.
Susan D. Wagner is a Worcester resident and president of Susan Wagner PR, a boutique public relations firm invested in meeting client's goals with integrity and creativity. She is also Managing Partner for The Boston Ad Agency and Director of Corporate Communications for Boston Web Designers.
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