Hooper's Judge — Restaurant in Cohasset

I want to start by saying how happy I am to see this lovely spot open. I’ve eaten here just once but will absolutely be back. The staff is truly competent, especially the kitchen. Here’s my take on what we had: The dressed oysters were simply impeccable. Served with pineapple “caviar”, Fresno chiles and a delicate rice wine mignonette, it was a dish I’d come back for again and again. My only nitpick would be that the Fresno chiles were cut slightly too thick for my taste. I’d find the dish more balanced if they were shaved. The Caesar was very nice, but may not be for everyone as it is not classic, with the shredded lettuce feeling a bit more like a sandwich slaw than a salad. Again, a personal preference/nitpick. The dressing was obviously house made and delicious. The “Wellie” beef Wellington was memorable. The beef was cooked perfectly, the pastry was flaky top and bottom, and the duxelles was perfect. I found the spinach crepe brought a stodgy texture to the dish that I just could not appreciate and removed it altogether after a few bites. The same can be said for the mushroom velouté beneath the Wellington. It was far too thick for a velouté and did not live up to such a competent dish otherwise. I found the reduction sauce served with the accompanying roasted carrots (delicious! More, please!) a superior pairing for my tastebuds. All-in-all a lovely experience and I look forward to...

Come here for - great food in a refined but casual atmosphere Walking into Hooper's Judge you recognize the bones of the Irish Pubs of the past, but you quickly noticed how everything is just a little bit nicer, the lighting by the bar reminds you of cocktail bars of the past, the color palette of dark blues and tans is welcoming, and the walls are covered with scenes of Cohasset form the early 20th century, including a picture of the 1925 Cohasset HS football team. It's a place you could feel comfortable staying for awhile. The menu mirrors the atmosphere with staples like a pub burger and fish and chips (GF as is all there fried food). But there is also the Wellie, a unique take on Beef Wellington, Braised Rabbit Ragu and Loch Duart Seared Salmon. Just a few of the excellent choices. To start you have your oysters and even some wings, but for the more adventurous there is a make your own charcuterie board as well as Caviar Service! To top it all off, the bartender is not just pouring pints, of which they have some excellent choices, but they are true mixologist making cocktails that rival the now shuttered Drink in Boston. So whether you are looking for a quality cocktail after work, a snack to tide you over to dinner or a quality meal, this is your place. You will feel welcomed and relaxed the moment you walk...

Got to enjoy Hooper’s Judge tonight as a solo diner. Knew it opened at 4pm, so aimed to get there right at open - I walked in at 4:04pm and I got the very last open seat at the bar. Every table was full by 4:10 - so make a reservation!! The decor was gorgeous, love what they’ve done with the space. The windows were open, and it was a really hot, muggy night so I wish they’d been close tbh. The bar staff (three ladies, in total) were wonderful - super attentive and knowledgeable. I got a French75, then had the homemade potato chips & onion dip (forgot to take a picture - but it was sooooo good, clearly homemade and dip was so flavorful with lots of fresh herbs). I had the meatballs app alone with a side of Mac & cheese as my main meal - as a solo diner it was plenty to bring home for another meal. Both were fab, but special shout out to the very tender meatballs and light, rich tomato sauce. Highly recommend, and can’t wait to go back to try more...