bacon mixed into the light and fluffy pancake batter is just a delight . The pancakes were perfectly griddled with a very slight crisp to the edges but still fluffy and light inside . The pancakes also come topped with a dollop of citrus butter ; it ’ s a small enhancement and makes the dish feel just a bit more special .
The restaurant is also open for dinner , which I have not had the opportunity to enjoy yet , but I am confident it will deliver strong entrees just like breakfast did . I ’ ve got my eye on the New England Seafood Pot Pie ( shrimp , scallops , jumbo lump crab , and sustainable catch of the day with baby carrots , pearl onions , peas , potatoes , and crustacean cream with a flaky crust ) as well as the “ brick ” lemon-herb half chicken ( duck fatroasted fingerling potatoes , broccolini , sautéed wild mushroom , and pan jus ). Plus , the twelve-layer chocolate cake ( flourless chocolate cake and ganache served with milk-coffee chantilly ) sounds simply divine .
There is a quiet confidence at Ale & Compass that I really enjoyed . At first glance , it seems understated . The decor is nice , but the colors are soft and calm . The menu is solid , but there are no outrageous dishes — no fan-favorite , highly Instagrammable , wild fusion offerings . Everything I ate here was delicious .
When I think back on the meal , I remember many good dishes alongside great dishes . From the buffet to the drinks to the entrees , there were no duds to be found . Just a refined and delicious meal that I am looking forward to enjoying again .
The blueberry bacon pancakes were a standout dish . PHOTO BY DANNY SHUSTER