Bonfire Amherst is quickly becoming a culinary hotspot known for its innovative approach to campfire-inspired cuisine and cozy, inviting atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Amherst, this restaurant offers a menu that brings together rustic flavors with contemporary techniques, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re craving smoky grilled meats, fresh salads, or indulgent desserts, Bonfire Amherst’s menu caters to a variety of palates, showcasing a perfect blend of comfort and creativity.
The menu’s diversity is matched by its commitment to quality ingredients, with many dishes featuring locally sourced produce and meats. The chefs at Bonfire Amherst take pride in crafting each dish with attention to detail, ensuring that every bite delivers a memorable experience.
From appetizers to main courses and desserts, the menu reflects a thoughtful balance of hearty and healthy options, appealing to those who appreciate bold flavors as well as those seeking lighter fare.
Beyond just the food, the Bonfire Amherst menu is designed to complement its rustic ambiance, offering dishes that evoke the warmth and communal spirit of gathering around a fire. Whether dining with friends or enjoying a quiet meal alone, the menu’s approachable yet sophisticated offerings provide something special for every occasion.
Starters and Small Plates
The starters at Bonfire Amherst set the tone for the meal with a variety of bold flavors and shareable options. Designed to ignite the appetite, these small plates are perfect for sampling or pairing with cocktails from the bar.
The menu emphasizes fresh ingredients and smoky undertones, reflecting the restaurant’s signature campfire theme.
Many of the appetizers feature grilled vegetables, house-made dips, and innovative twists on classic comfort foods. The small plates are ideal for those who enjoy tasting multiple dishes or prefer lighter beginnings to their dining experience.
They also provide a great way to explore the menu’s range without committing to a full entree.
Popular Starters
- Smoked Chicken Wings: Tossed in a tangy chipotle glaze, these wings are slow-cooked over wood smoke for a depth of flavor.
- Grilled Flatbread: Topped with whipped ricotta, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish is both rustic and refined.
- Campfire Nachos: A hearty pile of tortilla chips layered with smoked cheddar, jalapeños, and house-made salsa.
- Wood-Roasted Mushrooms: Marinated in herbs and served with a balsamic reduction, perfect for vegetarian guests.
“The starters at Bonfire Amherst are a masterclass in balancing smoky flavors with fresh ingredients, creating an inviting introduction to the meal.” – Local Food Critic
Signature Entrees
The signature entrees at Bonfire Amherst highlight the restaurant’s dedication to bold flavors and expert preparation. These dishes often feature proteins cooked over open flames or wood-fired grills, creating a unique smoky character that defines the menu.
Each entree is thoughtfully paired with seasonal sides that enhance the main flavors.
From rich, slow-roasted meats to lighter seafood options, the entrees offer something for every preference. The chefs employ various cooking techniques that enhance texture and flavor, ensuring that each dish is a culinary experience.
Many of the entrees also accommodate dietary preferences without compromising on taste or presentation.
Featured Dishes
Dish | Main Ingredient | Cooking Method | Recommended Pairing |
Maple-Glazed Pork Chop | Pork | Wood-Fired Grill | Roasted Root Vegetables |
Campfire Salmon | Salmon | Open Flame Grilling | Lemon-Dill Quinoa Salad |
Charred Vegetable Risotto | Seasonal Vegetables | Sauteed & Grilled | Herb-Infused Olive Oil |
Smoked Brisket | Beef Brisket | Slow-Smoked | House BBQ Sauce & Cornbread |
Each entree is crafted to deliver a harmonious blend of smoky aromas and fresh ingredients, inviting diners to savor every bite.
Salads and Light Fare
For those seeking lighter options, Bonfire Amherst offers a variety of salads and light fare that don’t sacrifice flavor. These dishes are perfect for health-conscious diners or anyone looking for a refreshing complement to heartier choices.
The salads incorporate seasonal greens, nuts, fruits, and artisanal cheeses, often dressed with house-made vinaigrettes.
Light fare selections emphasize balance and freshness, making them suitable for lunch or as a starter. The menu also includes vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring inclusivity for diverse dietary needs.
Each salad is thoughtfully composed to provide texture and taste contrasts that keep the palate engaged.
Salad Highlights
- Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Served with candied pecans and a citrus vinaigrette, this salad offers a bright, earthy flavor profile.
- Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: Combines sweet, smoky peaches with peppery arugula and toasted almonds.
- Quinoa and Kale Bowl: Packed with superfoods, finished with a lemon-tahini dressing for a creamy finish.
- Classic Caesar with a Twist: Features smoked croutons and house-made dressing for an unexpected depth.
“Bonfire Amherst’s salads are a testament to how fresh ingredients and creative preparation can elevate simple dishes into memorable meals.” – Nutrition Expert
Sandwiches and Burgers
Bonfire Amherst’s sandwiches and burgers bring the campfire experience into handheld form. These dishes are hearty, flavorful, and made from quality ingredients that reflect the restaurant’s dedication to craft.
The menu includes classic flavors alongside inventive combinations that surprise and delight.
Each sandwich and burger is served with a choice of side, allowing guests to customize their meal. The buns are freshly baked, and the meats are cooked to perfection, often featuring smoky seasonings or glazes.
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options are also available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying sandwich.
Popular Choices
- Smoked Brisket Burger: Topped with caramelized onions, sharp cheddar, and house BBQ sauce on a toasted brioche bun.
- Grilled Portobello Sandwich: Marinated mushrooms with roasted red peppers and vegan aioli, served on ciabatta.
- Maple BBQ Pulled Chicken: Slow-cooked chicken with smoky maple BBQ, coleslaw, and pickles.
- Classic Campfire BLT: Thick-cut bacon, fresh lettuce, tomato, and smoked mayo on sourdough.
Sandwich/Burger | Main Protein | Signature Topping | Side Options |
Smoked Brisket Burger | Beef Brisket | House BBQ Sauce | Fries, Salad, or Slaw |
Grilled Portobello Sandwich | Portobello Mushroom | Vegan Aioli | Fries, Salad, or Slaw |
Maple BBQ Pulled Chicken | Chicken | Maple BBQ Sauce | Fries, Salad, or Slaw |
Classic Campfire BLT | Bacon | Smoked Mayo | Fries, Salad, or Slaw |
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert menu at Bonfire Amherst offers a perfect ending to the meal, combining comforting classics with inventive flavors. Rich, smoky undertones carry through many of the desserts, reflecting the restaurant’s campfire theme even in its sweets.
From decadent chocolate to fruit-forward options, the desserts cater to all kinds of sweet cravings.
Each dessert is made in-house with quality ingredients, and many feature seasonal fruits or unique spice blends. The presentation is as thoughtful as the flavors, making these dishes not only delicious but visually appealing.
Whether you want to share or savor a sweet treat solo, the dessert menu delivers satisfaction.
Signature Desserts
- Campfire S’mores Tart: A rich chocolate tart topped with toasted marshmallow and graham cracker crumble.
- Smoked Apple Crisp: Warm apples baked with cinnamon and a smoky caramel drizzle.
- Maple Pecan Bread Pudding: Served with bourbon sauce and whipped cream for a luxurious finish.
- Dark Chocolate Chili Cake: A dense chocolate cake with a hint of chili heat, garnished with fresh berries.
“Desserts at Bonfire Amherst are a delightful surprise, expertly blending smoky notes with sweet indulgence to create memorable endings.” – Pastry Chef
Beverage Selections
Complementing the food menu is a thoughtfully curated beverage selection that enhances every meal at Bonfire Amherst. The drink menu features craft cocktails, local beers, fine wines, and non-alcoholic options, all designed to pair beautifully with the smoky, rustic flavors of the cuisine.
The cocktail list highlights creative use of smoked ingredients and house-made syrups, offering unique twists on classic drinks. Local breweries and vineyards are prominently featured, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to supporting the regional food and drink community.
Non-alcoholic beverages include artisanal sodas, house-brewed teas, and fresh juices.
Featured Beverages
- Smoked Old Fashioned: A classic cocktail with a smoky twist, made using house-infused bourbon.
- Maple Bourbon Sour: Combining maple syrup and fresh lemon for a balanced, sweet-tart profile.
- Local IPA: Rotating selection from Amherst’s top craft breweries.
- Herbal Iced Tea: House-brewed with a blend of mint, lemon verbena, and chamomile.
Drink | Type | Flavor Profile | Food Pairing |
Smoked Old Fashioned | Cocktail | Smoky, Sweet, Robust | Smoked Brisket, Pork Chop |
Maple Bourbon Sour | Cocktail | Sweet, Tart, Smooth | Grilled Salmon, Roasted Vegetables |
Local IPA | Beer | Hoppy, Bitter, Citrusy | Burgers, Wings |
Herbal Iced Tea | Non-Alcoholic | Refreshing, Floral, Light | Salads, Light Fare |
Special Dietary Options
Bonfire Amherst takes pride in accommodating guests with diverse dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal. The menu clearly identifies dishes that are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free, and the kitchen is attentive to cross-contamination concerns.
This inclusivity is a key part of the restaurant’s philosophy.
Many dishes are naturally suited to special diets, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful in making recommendations or modifications. This approach makes Bonfire Amherst a welcoming destination for groups with varied preferences and restrictions, without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Gluten-Free and Plant-Based Highlights
- Grilled Portobello Sandwich (Vegan): Made without gluten-containing bread upon request, with all plant-based ingredients.
- Quinoa and Kale Bowl (Gluten-Free, Vegan): Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients and free from common allergens.
- Smoked Chicken Wings (Gluten-Free): Prepared with gluten-free sauces and spices.
- Charred Vegetable Risotto (Vegetarian, Gluten-Free): Creamy and satisfying without any gluten ingredients.
“Bonfire Amherst’s commitment to dietary inclusivity ensures that every guest can savor the campfire experience without compromise.” – Restaurant Manager
Conclusion
The Bonfire Amherst menu stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful culinary craftsmanship and a deep appreciation for quality ingredients. Every dish is infused with the warmth and soul of open-fire cooking, yet elevated by modern techniques and a commitment to freshness.
From the first bite of a smoky appetizer to the last spoonful of a rich dessert, the menu invites diners to savor an authentic, memorable experience.
Whether you are drawn to the hearty signature entrees, the fresh and vibrant salads, or the indulgent desserts, Bonfire Amherst offers a spectrum of options designed to satisfy and delight. The inclusive approach to dietary needs and the carefully curated beverage pairings further enhance the overall dining experience.
This menu is more than just a list of dishes; it is a celebration of community, flavor, and the simple joy of sharing great food around a fire.
For anyone seeking a restaurant that combines rustic charm with culinary excellence, Bonfire Amherst’s menu is an outstanding choice. It beckons guests to slow down, gather, and enjoy the rich, smoky flavors that define its unique identity.
In every sense, this menu embodies the spirit of good food, good company, and the timeless allure of the campfire.