Journeyman — Photo courtesy of Strohm-HermanOne bite of Journeyman’s seasonal, local fare is all it takes to get hooked on their rather bold concept of a tasting menu with limited options. Three, five or seven courses prepared either “omnivore” or “vegetarian” style, served with or without a beverage pairing, equals the extent of choice in this industrial, chic space in Somerville’s Union Square.

The effort Journeyman puts into selecting the wines, beers and the deliciously creative mocktails (tasting more like cocktails than alcohol-free imposters) makes it well worth adding the beverage pairing. The casual pace with which the food arrives makes this the ideal destination for a small group. After being guided through the course selection process, you must decide whether to skimp with three, be comfortably full with five or overindulge with seven sensational courses (those with a hefty appetite should opt for seven).

The time put into preparing and presenting the food lets you catch up with friends, and really enjoy what has been called, “a true dining experience.” Each plate gives you just enough of a perfectly balanced set of seasonal ingredients interacting harmoniously to please your palate. Creative purees bring vegetables beyond bland, but stay away from being too heavily sauced. Meat-and-potato lovers may just find themselves wishing they selected the vegetarian choice.

With a constantly changing menu, you’ll want to return often to savor this culinary journey again, and to enjoy the abundance of seasonal specialties New England has to offer.Seasonal fare at Journeyman — Photo courtesy of Johanna Bobrow