First run at Boltwood this evening, dined at the bar.
I share the OP's enthusiasm & think this place has the potential to be really good (perhaps exceptional) but they don't have it dialed in quite yet.
Oysters to start (1/2 doz, chef selection) fresh as can be, delicate & briny, subtle mignonette, excellent.
Sardine was OK, needs more work on the prep IMHO, seemed kind of uninspired, just OK. Not worth $12. They can do better & I bet they will given more time to work on it.
Grilled sweetbreads were the highlight of the meal, these were really, really good w/ shaved cucumber & a mild cheesy base with fresh herbs. A+. Don't change a thing.
Lamb riblets were terrible. Bland, undercooked and really fatty. Long way to go before these will be good. Go to Psisteria if you have a taste for these.
Potatoes with garlic & schmaltz were excellent. Crispy, fatty, with a nicely paired aoli. I would order these again without hesitation.
Overall, I am excited to see what these folks will be putting out going forward. It's still really early in their life, way too soon to be overly harsh. Give them some time to refine the menu & I think this place will be really good consistently.
Great addition to the Evanston dining scene, I look forward to returning & working my way through the menu.
I exist in Chicago, but I live in New Orleans.