The urban tavern trend continues with the recently opened Towne Stove and Spirits. The 397-seat eatery is a collaboration between local chef-restaurateurs Lydia Shire (Locke-Ober, Biba, and Scampo), the Summer Shack’s Jasper White, and the Lyons Group. Developed in partnership with the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (M.C.C.A.), the 13,000-square-foot venue is inside of the Hynes Convention Center.
Offering various drinking and dining experiences, Towne is divided into three dining rooms and three bars, all serving the same menu. A bustling street-level bar greets guests at the entryway, a casual dining room is downstairs, and a more formal dining room upstairs. A 4,000-square-foot third dining room, which is meant for a la carte dining and private and semiprivate events, can be divided into three sections with curtains. The new spot also has an outdoor terrace that seats 90 alongside a gigantic solarium.
An upper-level exhibition kitchen is surrounded by glass so diners can catch a glimpse of its inner workings, which include a wood-fire rotisserie, a vintage Chambers copper stove, and Peking duck and tandoori ovens.
The overall vibe mixes casual and upscale elements, and the decor is rustic Americana meets mid-century modern. Quirky artwork from Shire’s personal collection fills the space.
Towne serves American intercontinental fare, mixing New England favorites and dishes like Peking chicken, fritto misto, and wood-grilled pizza. An entire mini menu is dedicated to lobster dishes.
