We rarely make it out to eat outside of our South End-North End-Back Bay comfort zone and were rather hesitant when friends invited us to join them at Pava in Newton Center. We thought it might be another suburban horror with bored couples eating anything grateful to be away from their 2.6 children and Volvo for the night...but we were very pleasantly surprised. The decor is a little stark but for the space is welcoming and stylish- as was the hostess and the owner who made a point of greeting us. The menu is brief but we were impressed by the deep complex flavors of the duck and the smelt appetizers and the lamb and sole entrees. The wine list is decent and the mark ups bearable- we had an enjoyable pinot noir without feeling we were being fleeced. The wait staff were attentive and friendly without being intrusive. We did not have room for dessert but will definitely be back. Highly recommended.
Pros: Decor, waitstaff, menu
Cons: Its in Newton
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