Hidden (And Not So Hidden) Gems of Worcester

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Susan Wagner GoLocalWorcester Contributor

The Citizen

An Urban Oasis

Worcester is successfully transforming itself into a progressive and vibrant city with a proud past and interesting mix of old and new. Merging the heart of a small town with the diversity and resources of a thriving urban center, Worcester has a lot to offer. Every week, I will be taking visitors on a tour of the hidden (and perhaps not so hidden) gems that make Worcester a special place to live and work. As Worcester continues to revitalize its business district, one of my favorite hidden gems provides three good reasons to head downtown at the end of the day.

One Exchange Place on Commercial Street, adjacent to the DCU Center, boasts three notable establishments and a treat for every palate. Deliciously creative, The People’s Kitchen is known for its artisanal menu and honest-to-goodness dishes. The Citizen Wine Bar offers an extensive wine and cocktail list along with a colorful and cozy space perfect for both quiet conversations or socializing at the bar. Cigar Masters Worcester brings back the elegance and ambience of old-time men’s clubs with deep leather chairs and dark wood. This urban oasis in the heart of downtown offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The People's Kitchen

A fresh new take on the neighborhood wine bar, The Citizen has successfully brought the craft cocktail movement to Worcester. With no shortage of showmanship, the bartenders here are always ready to mix up exceptional, beautifully crafted cocktails. The welcoming atmosphere, singular wine list, and superb cocktails make The Citizen an ideal place to decompress. For those who adhere to the Greek adage “Let food be thy medicine,” the varied menu includes everything from soup and panini to smoked meats and extraordinary cheeses and chocolates. Guests can also choose from menu items at The People’s Kitchen, the wine bar’s sister restaurant upstairs.

Known for the creativity of its offerings and a constantly changing menu, The People’s Kitchen specializes in hand crafted artisanal products prepared by their chefs for the good people of Worcester. The restaurant imports the finest cheeses and meats from across the globe while locally sourcing as many items as possible. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets are accommodated with panache. Sophisticated but never stuffy, The People’s Kitchen is a foodie’s delight set in a comfortable and modern setting.

Cigar Masters Worcester focuses on providing the true cigar experience with an extensive selection and

Cigar Masters Worcester is a nice place to relax

knowledgeable humidor staff. They offer a fine collection of hand picked varieties from classic quality low cost options to connoisseur-pleasing premium selections. Guests enjoy luxurious seating, numerous flat screen televisions, and live entertainment Wednesday through Saturday nights.
Casual al fresco dining can be found in the atrium, where a retractable roof keeps things cool in summer and hot all winter. It is a superb venue for private parties. In addition to street parking, valet parking is offered on busy nights and two parking garages and parking lots are close by. With three fantastic establishments sharing the same address, One Exchange Place is one of downtown Worcester’s true gems.

Hours of Operation:

The Citizen Wine Bar
Food: Mon-Thurs 4:30 – 10:00 Fri-Sat 4:30 - Midnight Sun 4:30 – 9:00
Wine & Cocktails: Seven Days a Week 4:30pm – 2am
http://www.1nichexchange.com/citizen-wine-bar-menu.php

The People's Kitchen
Wed-Thurs 4:30 – 10:00 Fri-Sat 4:30 – 11:00
http://www.1nichexchange.com/the-peoples-kitchen.php

Cigar Masters Worcester
Every Day from 12:30pm – 2am
http://cigarmastersworcester.com/

Susan D. Wagner is president of Susan Wagner PR, a boutique public relations firm invested in meeting client's goals with integrity, creativity and results. She is also executive managing partner of The Boston Ad Agency.