By Joseph Montebello

Chef and owner Samantha (Sam) Tilley has always been ahead of the curve. From her early days at the Tollgate Tavern to opening MBK in Bantam she has created eclectic dishes, incorporating local produce and her love of exotic spices and flavors. The menu evolves according to the seasons and what becomes available in the restaurant’s Tenth Acre Urban Farm—a variety of vegetables, fruits, fresh eggs, and flowers produced with methods that protect the environment and promote healthy living and eating. On Saturdays this one-acre oasis is the place to shop.

MBK is noted for its Asian influence, from global street food appetizers, which include mushroom spring rolls, pork dumplings, and tempura shrimp to Chinese cabbage salad, Waterfall Thai beef, and Farmer’s Cobb. Mouthwatering main courses include Thai Curry Noodles, Spring Seared Cod, Ray’s Golden Fried Chicken, and Cacio e Pepe. 

And tacos! Sam has turned Taco Tuesdays, now observed in many places across the country, into a must-attend event. Reserve a seat at the bar and order a margarita (or two). Choose from oyster tacos, Baja fish Tacos, pulled chicken tacos, braised pork tacos, lamb barbocoa, and tim jim beef tacos. No restaurant does it better.

MBK is open for dinner Thursday through Saturday from 5:30 to 8:30pm.