There really was nothing to think about when placing my order. I wasn't really that hungry, but I wanted to taste his two signature offerings. The first was the clam chowder. Now every establishment in Boston sells this stuff. I'm sure you can even find it on some Asian menus in these parts -- that's how common it is. The truth is, of course, that the taste is usually pretty ordinary. A cup of rich white glob, with some chewy clams (if you can find any), covered in crackers. It's usually quite thick and you can feel your arteries harden as you consume it.

Now I'm not here to tell you that Jasper's clam chowder is healthy. I sincerely doubt that. But it is tasty, full of clams, and more milky than creamy. You can actually distinguish what you are eating and it seems much more like a rich soup than the stereotypical chowder. No doubt some will consider it to be too thin, but as I appreciate knowing what I'm eating, I like the thinner consistency. And make no mistake, it is rich in flavor. The clams were tender, the potatoes perfectly cooked, and just three little crackers garnished the bowl.

Next came Jasper's pan roasted lobster. The first time I saw this prepared was on an episode of Julia Child's show where she hosted various guest chefs in her home. Watching Chef White run his chef's knife through the lobster's head while it writhed was fascinating to me, though I know it turns many a stomach just to consider it. 

Needless to say, I didn't go back to the kitchen to watch the sentence carried out on the poor crustacean, but what was delivered on a plate in front of me was exceedingly tender lobster dressed with a generous amount of herbed butter, finished with a hint of what I think was bourbon. 

The red bucket they provided for the shell scraps was a nice touch, reinforcing the overall beach-like feel of the interior. Of course, as a native New Englander, the bib they offered went unused. (And I'm pleased to say my shirt bears no evidence of my gluttony.)

Now if only the weather would cooperate, I really might believe that summer is approaching. Someday.