The historic Henderson Water Street District continues to offer more reasons to visit, and now the opening of BLVD Grille is yet another excellent enticement to head out to “Old Henderson.” This new concept by FINE Management, best known for its PWKY Tavern concept, is a more upscale venue, with steaks, pastas, seafood and some international flavors thrown into the mix.
Set in the former space of Hardway Eight, there are four distinct environments: the dining room’s décor features old school elegance with blue velour booths and dark wood paneling; two bars just off of the dining room are lined with large screen TVs and offer bar top gaming; and a lounge area with a comfortable couch and chairs is where local musicians perform and a functional garage door brings fresh air when opened.
The food menu has some international influences. Examples are the Crispy Shrimp with Gochujang-lime drizzle, pepper relish and Asian slaw; and Seared Shrimp Ravioli with ricotta cheese and lemon tomato cream sauce.
The shareable menu features Shrimp & Crab Dip with focaccia toast points, Street Corn Nachos with pepper jack and Cotija cheese and Herb-Crusted Salmon Salad with toasted sesame dressing.
As for the elevated pub fare, I was quite impressed with the quality of the 14 oz NY Strip served with mashed Yukon Gold potatoes, grilled asparagus and garlic herb butter, which priced at $30, is so good and such a large cut that it qualifies as a true bargain. The 14 oz Chile-Rubbed Pork Chop is also accompanied with Yukon Gold potatoes and asparagus and is at a mere $18 price tag.
A handful of decadent desserts include house-made Peach Cobbler with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce and Godiva Double Chocolate Cheesecake.
Brunch served Sat.-Sun. from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. offers an assortment of breakfast favorites like Steak and Eggs, Classic Breakfast (two eggs any style, bacon or sausage, breakfast potatoes and choice of toast) and some unique selections like Cinnamon Apple Pancakes.
The beverage program is highlighted by 20 taps pouring beers from several local breweries including Bad Beat, HUDL, Mojave Brewing and Tenaya Creek; a respectable whiskey list with the likes of Angel’s Envy Port Cask Rye; several signature cocktails such as the Purple Mule with Ketel One, lime, Monin Lavender, ginger beer and lavender bitters; and a wine menu with about 40 quality bottles mainly from California offered in pours of 6 oz, 9 oz or by the bottle.
In addition to the extremely reasonably priced menu, there are two other great deals: the $12 lunch offered Mon.-Fri. from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for either a half salad and half sandwich or one of six entrees; and the happy hour Mon.-Fri. from 3-6 p.m. in the bar or high tops in the lounge with ½ off several quality bottles of wine and six appetizers priced at $5 each.
FINE Entertainment is providing yet another upgrade to the Henderson Water Street District, and an elevated take on pub grub at a quite reasonable price point. BLVD Grill is open daily for lunch and dinner and weekend brunch.
www.theblvdgrille.com
