By Contributing Writer Krista Walker
Principal Broker REMAXX Platinum Real Estate
DMA thanks Krista Walker for writing our delightful Food Spotlights for the past several years. She has kept us informed about the great restaurants we have in Downtown Medford. If you love restaurants and good food and sharing your dining experiences – you could be our next Food Spotlight Contributing Writer. Contact Phyllis Nelson at [email protected]
Amidst the vibrant streets of downtown Medford, The Beatrice has created culinary excellence with warm hospitality. Stepping through its doors, you are enveloped in an ambiance of inviting sophistication: a mix of metals, woods, and glass – and I love the staff!
Their menu is divided into four parts: nibbles, shares, plates, and drinks (plus desserts). It is designed to be a stopping ground after work for a cocktail or a place to settle in for lunch or dinner.
Nibbles: Eclectic array of appetizers that pair well with their drinks. We tried the Castelvetranos aka green olives with our red wine. I highly recommend the combo. The light lemon zest with the herbs… I was sad I had to share. They also have seasoned popcorn, gourmet pickles, chips, blueberries w/ chocolate chips, nuts, and bread. Each nibble has its own nuanced spice. I ate bread with my meal…very interesting, salted butter to spread on the bread. Took ordinary bread to the next level.
Shares: These are next level appetizers, soups, and salads. Steamer Clams, Beef Mole Flatbread, cheeseboard, olive salad, and dip trio. Next time, I am trying some of these out!
Plates: Miso Soup, Turkey Shepherd’s Pie, Beef or Mushroom Ragu, Power Salad, and Mortadella Sammie and salad. I ate the Miso Mushroom Soup with Soba Noodles. It was delicious with the lovely green onions and mushrooms – a nice treat on a wet cool day. Richard had the Mortadella Sammie with the salad. This open-faced sandwich had walnut pesto, pickled vegetables and arugula, along with melted mozzarella atop the mushrooms. There were no leftovers!
Drinks: There is a nice selection of locally sourced wine pours. I always appreciate being able to taste local wines by the glass or bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply seeking to explore the region’s finest vintages, the knowledgeable staff will guide you toward a perfect pairing for your meal. If you prefer beer, they have a decent variety to assuage any beer lover.
The special dessert . . . Well – the very friendly bar manager explained to us why the cake was named German Chocolate Cake, and we couldn’t resist. It was totally worth it. The cake was not overpowered by any of the ingredients. Just the right amount of each. Too bad licking a plate is bad manners.
In addition to its dine-in menu, The Beatrice offers a convenient grab-and-go option, Busy Bea’s Pantry, where you can take home full meals ready to enjoy at your leisure. From hearty soups and salads, to flavorful and homemade healthy dinner meals, Busy Bea’s Pantry caters to a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
The Beatrice is located at 406 East Main, downstairs where Deli Down used to be, in the Main Stret Market building. It is owned by Hilary Kemmling, who formerly owned Schoolhaus Brewhaus in Jacksonville. Hours are Monday – Friday, 11am -7pm.
