First Look: Lockheart Restaurant in Wellesley

Lockheart Restaurant Bar Area (click photos to enlarge)

Lockheart Restaurant opened in Wellesley last week, and we had a chance to visit tonight for the first time. The taco-driven table service restaurant and bar overtook space previously occupied by b.good (and boloco before that) after a deep and tasteful renovation. Parking is convenient with spaces in front on Central Street and in the rear parking lot for Central Plaza.

We got there very early in the evening and things started hopping shortly after. By the time we left the place was packed (thanks in part to this review on The Swellesley Report getting the word out) so it wouldn't hurt to make a reservation if you want to ensure a table.

Lockheart Dining Room

The Wellesley restaurant scene is poised for better times thanks to recently relaxed liquor laws.

I think the space will accomodate a lot of gathering situations effectively. Not so fancy as to require an occasion, but not so basic as to be boring. I thought the build-out and concept was novel, smart, and comfortable with good energy. The young staff was friendly and attentive.

Drinks and Appetizers

You can have a look at the food menu here.

And the drink menu here.

I opted for beer (Maine Beer Company Lunch IPA on tap and a Lawson's Sip of Sunshine can.) The Lockheart Standard was a hit with others in our group.

The Sheet Pan Nachos are a good way to get things going. Queso goodness finds its way to almost all of the hand-cut corn chips on the tray with good accompanying flavor throughout.

Lockheart Sheet Pan Nachos

I was a little confused what the lobster guacamole would entail, but I think the photo below sums it up well. Chilled lobster claw and knuckle is presented atop very good guac with a refreshing bit of citrus acidity.

Lockheart Lobster Guacamole

Tacos

I'd encourage ordering a variety of tacos because a) They're all very unique and b) I thought they were all really good.

I tried three tacos: The Short Rib Birria, the Ribeye Steak, and the Ahi Tuna.

The Ribeye was very good, but the Birria was next-level satisfying. The Birria taco is fried and presented with consomme for dipping derived when cooking the Short Rib. Utterly delicious.

The dark red Ahi Tuna was outstanding and anchored a well-composed taco. The commitment to fresh, high quality ingredients is evident here. They also make an Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl, showing good range that I think will satisfy a wider audience and keep people coming back.

Tacos: Short Rib Birria, Ribeye, and Ahi Tuna

Bottom Line

The Wellesley dining scene is ramping up and I'm here for it. Lockheart slots in nicely next to Alta Strada and Laughing Monk Cafe (another recently opened restaurant.)

Perhaps more than anything, I can see Lockheart being a useful restaurant I'll return to frequently. Don't get me wrong: I love a good steak. It's just that I can't justify splurging on a high-end dining experience on a regular basis. Lockheart threads the fun/interesting/comfortable needle very well. I think they'll do well here in town, and I wish them many years of success.

Check 'em Out:

Lockheart Restaurant

102 Central Street in Wellesley, MA

Reservations on OpenTable
(781) 943-3737