Palmers
Having heard great things about the old Palmers in Swampscott, Phantom was disappointed by the new Palmers in Andover.
Atmosphere(8)
A lovely place to dine, with a few different dining rooms and a tavern that features live music. The spacious upstairs dining area with cathedral ceilings and lots of windows was a bit chilly.
Menu(7)
This menu is fairly boring to look at, and also fairly limited. But several appetizer, entree, and dessert specials are available every day, and they offer an extensive wine list.
Portions(8)
Phantom was certainly able to pack away everything on his plate... but this should be no surprise.
Appetizers(7)
Stuffed artichoke with a shrimp and mushroom bread base was tasty, but Phantom expected more. Decent Caesar salad with homemade dressing. Fresh bread and rolls were high quality, but why not warm them up?
Food and Drink(8)
Grilled prime sirloin steak, ordered to medium, was served a bit charred on the outside; served with a creamy and delicious smashed potatoes, and a pleasing roasted pepper butter. Fettuccini with chicken prima vera in a light cream sauce was an aesthetically pleasing combo, though perhaps a bit too al dente.
Desserts(8)
The chocolate decadent cake and profiteroles filled with chocolate and caramel weren't quite great, but almost.
Service(7)
Phantom's pretentious server was apparently certainly too busy to attend to all of Phantom's needs. Timing between courses was too long. But the bussers did an admirable job clearing plates.
Cleanliness(8)
Very clean and tidy dining room. But you wouldn't expect to find paper towels on the floor of the bathroom in this restaurant.
Parking(8)
Easy to find on Elm Street in Andover, just past Phillips Academy. Lot behind the restaurant, and on street.
Value(8)
Appetizers range from $4-8; entrees between $16-27.
