Baleia, in the ground floor of the Troy Building at the intersection of the South End and South Boston, is bursting with Portuguese summer holiday tastes, sights, and smells. Named for the Portuguese word for whale, it’s the fourth concept from the Coda Restaurant Group, which includes SRV (also in the South End), Gufo (Cambridge), and The Salty Pig (Back Bay).
The seafood-heavy, tapas-style menu reflects the Mediterranean coastal feel of the space, including dishes using traditional copper cookware (Cataplana). There are small plates that are perfect for mixing and matching, as well as more substantial bites for bigger appetites, including large format dishes to share for the table. There are lots of goodies to sip as well, including some stylish “tonicos” and cocktails inspired by the Iberian Peninsula, wines by the glass, and a thoughtful selection of local and imported beers and ciders. They also have a substantial all-Portuguese wine list if you’re in the mood for a bottle for the table.
The space is all decked out with eye popping design from Boston-based RODE Architecture, including lots of modern Portuguese influences like limewashed walls, sunny yellow fabric accents, patterned tiles and a ceiling sculpture by Yellow Goat Design. There’s mixed seating including inviting banquettes, booths and traditional tables, and a spacious bar and lounge area, which can accommodate up to 90 people.
264 E Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02118
