Barry Chin/Globe staff
Sip Wine Bar + Kitchen in Downtown Crossing.
SIP WINE BAR & KITCHEN
In Downtown Crossing, the former Bina Osteria never quite caught on, despite its prime location. Let’s wish the new Sip Wine Bar + Kitchen better luck with the space. From Legendary Restaurant Group (Scollay Square, Tavern on the Water, Max & Dylans, Papagayo), it opened in late July.
Sip’s menu is focused on small plates, with some larger dishes. Movie- or theatergoers can have a quick snack and drink or a more-leisurely meal. (Those who just want something to go can try sister business Avery Provision Co. at 581 Washington.)
The menu is designed to appeal to a wide audience. You’ll find cheese, charcuterie, raw bar, and grilled flatbreads, along with the likes of buffalo rock shrimp, tempura green beans, guacamole, and meatballs. Go American with soups and salads, or Japanese with sushi rolls. Entrees include grilled tuna with wasabi mashed potatoes, a burger, penne with tomatoes and mozzarella, and seared scallops with leek risotto.
The wine list is divided by flavor profile — sweet and bubbly, buttery whites, spicy reds, and so on. For those who don’t want to drink wine at a wine bar, Sip also offers beer and cocktails such as the Figawi Wowie (blueberry vodka, mint, soda, and lemonade) and “mangria” (sangria made with vodka — what could be more manly?). There are also frozen bellinis in a range of fruit flavors.
Many small plates are $8 or $9, and the most expensive main dish is $22. Bina had a reputation for being expensive (although it wasn’t so much, after its initial incarnation). Sip offers friendly prices and a concept that ought to serve the area well.
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