Splash of Flavor 2017: Sweet cream ice cream at Branch Line

When you walk into Branch Line in Watertown, the first thing you notice is the industrial feel of the entire restaurant.

Exposed pipes in the ceiling and very artsy decor make you feel welcome. The night I went, the Patriots were playing on two large flat screens up on the bar.  Unfortunately, we were so focused on the great food that we missed half of the game.

(Hey, you can place your vote here!)

Like most restaurants, loud music ruins many meals, but at Branch Line, this was not the case. The lighting and the music were perfect. By sitting at the bar, the bartender was our server.  He was kind, funny, and very knowledgeable about their products. He said his favorite dish out of everything was the rotisserie prime rib, but mentioned, “If you’re new here, I would definitely go with the chicken.”

So, my guest and I got both.

Along with that, we also ordered their rotisserie drippings, lemon chicken soup, and the polenta. Personally, I would not recommend the drippings as an appetizer. It has an acquired taste that I don’t believe many will like. However, if you are looking for a great appetizer, order the lemon chicken soup. The lemon is not overpowering and the small pieces of bread soak up the broth perfectly.  

Branch Line is known for its chicken, but the prime rib is where it’s at. After taking my first bite of the prime rib, I had to take a moment and appreciate every second. It is one of the best pieces of steak I have ever had. It was cooked exactly how I like it, medium rare, and the fried onions on the side were heavenly. My only complaint would be the potatoes, which had a very earthy flavor to them.

My guest described her chicken as “really juicy, the outside is almost like a dry, peppery rub.” Both meals were amazing, it just depends on your preference.

My two favorite dishes I ordered were the polenta and the sweet cream ice cream. The texture of the polenta was just right and the balance of flavors between the cheese and the cornmeal was exemplary.

Despite how amazing the polenta was, the ice cream is the absolute best. Made in house at Eastern Standard, it was creamy and not too sweet. It came with caramel and hazelnuts on the side. Personally, my favorite part was the caramel, with just the right amount of salt; it complemented the ice cream perfectly.

Overall, my experience at Branch Line was great and I would definitely recommend it for anyone who wants good food. Despite it being on the more expensive side, the taste of the food and the overall feel of the restaurant is worth the larger price tag.  

(Branch Line, 321 Arsenal St., Watertown, 6127-420-1900, http://www.branchlinearsenal.com/.)

(To help pick the 2017 Splash of Flavor winner, cast your vote at http://tinyurl.com/3h532cs. Voting is only open until Jan. 21, 2018.)

-– Dec. 20, 2017–