The Blue Ox

Overview

The Blue Ox in Lynn, MA, is a standout destination for upscale casual American dining. Since opening in 2009, it has earned a reputation for an inviting neighborhood vibe, a creative yet approachable menu, and attentive service. The restaurant occupies a stylish, industrial-chic space in downtown Lynn, setting itself apart as one of the city’s most acclaimed eateries.

Ownership, Chef, and Accolades

The Blue Ox is owned by Chef Matt O’Neil, a Swampscott native and Culinary Institute of America graduate. Chef O’Neil brings experience from renowned Boston restaurants such as Prezza and No. 9 Park. Under his leadership, The Blue Ox has achieved significant recognition, including winning Boston Magazine’s “Battle of the Burger” in both 2013 and 2014. This acclaim underscores the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence and innovation.

Ambience and Experience

The restaurant’s interior features exposed brick, hardwood floors, tin ceilings, and a blend of industrial and elegant design elements, creating a comfortable yet sophisticated atmosphere. The Blue Ox balances a lively bar scene with warm, family-friendly dining, making it suitable for everything from date nights to group gatherings.

Popular Dishes

The Blue Ox menu is rooted in American classics, reinterpreted with creative flair and top-quality ingredients. Highlights include:

• Blue Ox Burger: A signature dish made from hand-packed Prime beef, stuffed with gorgonzola dolce, topped with applewood smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce, and a grilled lemon-thyme aioli. Served on a brioche bun with herb French fries or house-made potato chips. This burger is a multi-award winner and a must-try for blue cheese lovers.
• Rigatoni Bolognese: House-made pasta cooked al dente and served in generous portions, praised for its rich flavor and satisfying texture.
• Crispy Calamari: Served with Anaheim peppers, green beans, fennel, arugula, chipotle aioli, and lemon, offering a perfect balance of crispy and tender.
• Pan Roasted Salmon: Accompanied by Sardinian couscous, San Marzano tomato sauce, and sautéed garlic spinach, this dish reflects the kitchen’s focus on fresh, vibrant flavors.
• Icelandic Cod: Panko-encrusted and baked, served with steamed rice, grilled corn, red bell peppers, carrots, and charred pineapple salsa.
• Signature Ox Wings: Cajun-rubbed, oak-smoked wings tossed in hot honey sauce and served with blue cheese dressing, scallions, and sesame seeds.
• Sticky Toffee Pudding: A standout dessert, featuring moist pudding cake, toffee caramel sauce, whipped cream, and caramel sea salt ice cream.

The menu also features inventive appetizers like tuna tartare and braised pork belly, alongside a selection of fresh salads and seasonal specials.

Drinks

The Blue Ox is known for its well-crafted cocktails, such as the North Country Old Fashioned (bacon-infused bourbon with maple syrup and maple bitters) and the Sibling Rivalry (vodka, ginger liqueur, St-Germain, lemon, and rhubarb bitters). The bar also offers a diverse selection of wines and local beers, making it a favorite spot for both casual drinks and celebratory toasts.

Service and Atmosphere

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable, personable, and attentive service. The staff, including standout servers like Matthew, contribute to a memorable dining experience. The atmosphere strikes a balance between neighborhood comfort and urban sophistication, appealing to locals and visitors alike.

Summary

The Blue Ox is a culinary gem in Lynn, delivering inventive American cuisine, award-winning burgers, and a welcoming, upscale-casual environment. Chef Matt O’Neil’s expertise and commitment to quality shine through in every dish, making The Blue Ox a destination worth returning to again and again.

For more details, visit their official website, view current menus, or explore more about their story and accolades here.

Google Maps Rating: 4.6/5 stars (from 891 reviews)