SouthCoast’s Fall Restaurant Week: A Culinary Journey Through Local Favorites

It’s been an unforgettable week for Michael Rock, Maddie, and myself as the 2024 Fall Restaurant Week officially came to a close. We were treated like royalty, sampling some of the most mouth-watering cuisine the SouthCoast has to offer. From delightful appetizers to indulgent feasts, the Michael and Maddie Show took on the challenge of highlighting the very best bites.

As tradition goes, at the end of each Restaurant Week, I enjoy reflecting on the standout dishes from each day. This year, we were lucky enough to visit five incredible spots: Toast n’ Jam in New Bedford, Top Shelf Bar & Grill in New Bedford, Home Plate on Bay Street in Taunton, Play Arcade in New Bedford, and finally, the Old Grist Mill Tavern in Seekonk. Each restaurant had its own unique flair, but one dish from each place truly shone.

Here’s the lineup of this week’s top dishes:

Monday - Toast n’ Jam: “CHURRO CRUNCH” Wrap

For breakfast lovers with a twist, Toast n’ Jam offered the “CHURRO CRUNCH” wrap—a tortilla stuffed with egg, bacon, sausage, cheese, and even a pancake, all rolled up, fried, and tossed in a churro blend. Paired with hot honey, this sweet and savory creation was a revelation at $14.99.

Tuesday - Top Shelf Bar & Grill: “DIP FLIGHT”

On Tuesday, Top Shelf Bar & Grill in New Bedford served up the ultimate comfort food with their “DIP FLIGHT.” Featuring three bold flavors—Buffalo Chicken, Artichoke & Spinach, and Mexican Corn—all accompanied by wood-grilled chips, this $18.00 dish was a favorite for snacking and sharing.

Wednesday - Home Plate: “GRONK MONSTER” Burger

Wednesday brought us to Taunton, where Home Plate on Bay Street unleashed the “GRONK MONSTER” burger. This 1/2-pound blend of patty was topped with New England Lobster salad, American cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, and crispy onion rings. Priced at $18.00, it was the ultimate indulgence.

Thursday - Play Arcade: “GORDITA CRUNCH”

On Thursday, we switched things up with a trip to Play Arcade in New Bedford. Their “GORDITA CRUNCH” delivered a satisfying combo—a warm flatbread with melted cheese wrapped around a crispy corn taco shell filled with chicken, lettuce, pico de gallo, and a house-made special sauce.

Friday - The Old Grist Mill Tavern: “The Grand New England Feast – Land Edition”

Last, but not least, we wrapped up the week with a truly memorable meal at The Old Grist Mill Tavern in Seekonk. The “Grand New England Feast – Land Edition” was an absolute showstopper, starting with warm, freshly baked cinnamon bread and your choice of soup or salad bar. The main event? Oven-roasted turkey, Mill’s Meatloaf, and savory pot roast served with garlic mashed potatoes, mac ‘n cheese, green beans, and house stuffing. And to finish it off: cinnamon bread pudding topped with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. This feast was the ultimate way to conclude a delicious week and you can get all this for $34 per person, $17 for kids under 12.

As we say goodbye to another successful Fall Restaurant Week, I can’t help but feel grateful for all the talented chefs and staff who made this experience so unforgettable. If you missed out this time, don’t worry—these SouthCoast gems are ready and waiting for you.