New Bedford Is Already Debating the Name of Its Newest Restaurant

New Bedford has a brand-new dining destination, and it’s already turning heads.

Off The Boulevard, located in the former Pub 6T5 space on Ashley Boulevard, officially opened its doors Tuesday night, and The MGM Show got an exclusive first look during a soft opening.

Modern Renovation and a Standout Pizza Oven

Owner Howie Mallowes kept the best parts of Pub 6T5's structure, but gave it a fresh, new feel with an updated menu. The most significant change is its gigantic pizza oven, easily one of the biggest on the SouthCoast.

Even with creative options like buffalo chicken or the adventurous fried bologna pizza, one surprising standout was the classic cheese. Simple, perfectly balanced, and crafted with direction from one of the masters at the legendary Rainoni’s in the Dartmouth Mall, the cheese pizza alone signaled that Off The Boulevard takes its food seriously.

READ MORE: New Bedford's Off The Boulevard Serves Pizza That Is Pure Nostalgia

Guests at the soft opening found themselves swapping slices across tables, comparing flavors, and discovering new favorites, including Gazelle's pick, the spicy “Hot Like Fire” pizza topped with roasted garlic and ghost pepper aioli.

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A Menu Full of Creative Starters and Comfort Favorites

The appetizers took on a new angle on crowd favorites. The crab Rangoon dip quickly became a table favorite, paired with spicy chips that gave it a kick. The fried pickles were crispy, never greasy, and the blooming onion brought a shareable option that’s hard to find locally. I was a huge fan of the dip for the blooming onion.

Entrées impressed as well. Short ribs, served with carrots and pillowy gnocchi, melted apart with flavor. The butternut squash and pumpkin ravioli in sage cream sauce offered a perfect seasonal dish. The French onion burger on a buttery bun and melty brie disappeared in record time. It didn't stand a chance with Gazelle.

Opening Day and the Name Everyone’s Debating

Off The Boulevard is sparking debate however. People question whether the restaurant is Off or On The Boulevard? Technically it sits on Ashley Boulevard, but as Mallowes explained, you’ve got to get “off” the boulevard to pull in.

Either way, the name works and the food speaks for itself. New Bedford has another winner.