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Top 49 Boston Restaurants You Need to Try

Boston is an amazing city for food no matter when you visit during the year.

people enjoying food at a boston restaurant

Whether you’re in town on business, visiting historical sites in the summer, leaf-peeping in the fall, or enjoying a ski trip in the winter, Boston has some of the best flavors around.

No matter if you’re a local or a visitor from out of town, there are a ton of great restaurants in Boston that you just have to try.

Boston is right on the ocean, so there’s plenty of great seafood, but there’s also great Italian food, steak, and vegetarian options. 

You name it, Boston has options in every neighborhood from the North End to the Back Bay and beyond.

Let me take you on a tour of the city and show you where to eat in Boston.

Below are some of my favorite restaurants and dishes you have to try next time you’re in the city.


O Ya

9 East St, Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-654-9900
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Nestled between the waterfront and Chinatown, O Ya is one of Boston’s hottest restaurants. 

O Ya offers a uniquely Japanese experience every night. O Ya is reservation-only, though, and they sell out quickly.

If you want a seat at O Ya, check for reservations daily and prepare to be flexible with timing.

O Ya only offers a 20-course omakase menu, which changes daily and is overseen by James Beard Award-winning chef Tim Cushman.

Because it changes daily, there’s no one dish I can recommend, but get here if at all possible. It’s a meal and experience that you won’t soon forget.


Oleana Restaurant

134 Hampshire St, Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: 617-661-0505
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Oleana, located in Cambridge, located near Kendall Square on Hampshire Street, offers spectacular, modern Mediterranean cuisine. 

A warm, inviting interior gives a great sense of the meal you’re about to enjoy.

From classics such as whipped feta to new twists like spinach falafel to a fantastic dessert list, Oleana has something for everyone.

They also offer takeout for a great meal on the go.

You can’t go wrong getting the lamb gyro. This comes with shaved lamb meat, cabbage, pickled red onion, and perfectly crisp potatoes.

I recommend the warm buttered hummus with thin beef, tomato, and black olive for an appetizer.


Pammy’s

928 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: 617-945-1761
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Next, we’ll move over to Massachusetts Avenue, right between Harvard and Central Squares. That’s where you’ll find Pammy’s, another great Boston restaurant.

 Pammy’s takes the look and feel of a traditional Italian trattoria and combines it with a New American-style menu.

Pammy’s offers a three-course meal, although dishes are available a la carte at the bar.

The menu rotates regularly, but if you have a chance, get the sea scallops.

These are beautifully cooked alongside grilled avocado and a light vinaigrette that pulls everything together.

A trio of sorbets is an excellent dessert at Pammy’s to finish off your meal.


Krasi

48 Gloucester St, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-536-0230
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You can find Krasi near the Trader Joe’s supermarket by the corner of Gloucester. It’s a unique destination that offers contemporary Greek cuisine in a relaxed ambiance.

The decor is industrial-chic, and they play lovely music while you eat. Krasi also serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am-3 pm.

The service there is excellent, and I highly recommend almost anything on the menu. The portion sizes are generous, and the menu is inexpensive, considering how much food you get. 

My favorite dishes were the Halloumi, potatoes with goat cheese, the mushroom toast, and the Lalangia, which is fried dough with drizzles of honey and thyme. It’s the chef’s kiss!


Cafe Sushi

1105 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-492-0434
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Next, we’ll stay on Mass Avenue and visit a sushi restaurant that has been open since 1984, Cafe Sushi. The food here is fresh, seasonal, and fantastic.

If you like takeout, Cafe Sushi also offers sake and wine to go.

For a great appetizer, get the shishito peppers, which are blistered and seasoned with salt and a house-made furikake mix.

Nigiri is offered a la carte, but I recommend getting the platter if you’re looking for a true sushi feast. It’s expensive but comes with some of the best that Cafe Sushi has to offer.

It’s worth it, I promise.


Table Boston

445 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113
Phone: 857-250-4286
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Table was rated as the Best North End Restaurant in 2021 by both Eater and Boston Magazine, so you know it’s fantastic. 

Table is fairly unique in that all its dishes are served family-style, meaning that you’re getting huge plates of food to share with your party.

Chef/owner Jen Royle takes all diners through a journey of delicious Italian dishes.

Table only offers a prix fixe menu, and that rotates.

The good news is that everything here is fantastic. One highlight is their burrata con prosciutto, a basil salad covered in pistachio crumble, fresh burrata cheese, and thinly-sliced prosciutto.


Celeste

21 Bow St, Somerville, MA 02143
Phone: 617-616-5319
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If you’re in Union Square in Somerville, Celeste is a one-of-a-kind spot.

Celeste is a true celebration of Peruvian culture. That comes through in its food and drink, but also in its dining room, which showcases art, design, and music.

The whole restaurant is designed to be an experience, and it’s definitely a fun one.

I absolutely love Celeste’s camarón con ajillo.

Think of the best shrimp scampi you’ve ever had, and now push it aside because I promise that Celeste’s is better.

It brings all the classic flavors with a mix of spices and textures that is just terrific.


Sarma

249 Pearl St, Somerville, MA 02145
Phone: 617-764-4464
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In the Winter Hill area of Somerville, Sarma is the brainchild of chef Cassie Piuma, who’s been James Beard Award-nominated five times! 

Sarma is rooted in Mediterranean flavors fused with other delicacies, and their food is offered in meze-style.

Meze involves many small, shareable plates, so you’ll have the opportunity to try a ton of treats here.

Sarma has a rotating seasonal menu, so you’ll always get something new. If you have the chance, though, definitely get the seven-layer baked hummus.

It takes the idea of the classic seven-layer dip but with the freshest ingredients and falafel chips.


Shojo

9A Tyler St, Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-482-8887
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Shojo is in downtown Boston, in the Chinatown neighborhood. They offer modern Asian dishes and creative cocktails.

This trendy gastropub has intricate murals on the walls, and you’ll typically see a younger crowd frequent this spot. The focus is on sharable, small plates, which makes it fun to try a myriad of dishes with friends and family. 

They change the menu every season, which ensures the freshest ingredients and a lot of variety. When I visited Boston last summer, I thought it was a must-try based on all the recommendations from people in the area. They didn’t disappoint!

The kimchi fried rice and duck fat fries with sriracha aioli taste amazing, and the flavors are out of this world. 


SRV Boston

569 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-536-9500
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Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Boston Symphony, SRV (Serene Republic of Venice) is a must-try if you love Italian food.

This spot focuses on small bites, fresh pasta, and made-to-order risotto. The wine list is 100% Italian, and the cocktails are mostly Italian as well!

I always start a meal here with a gem salad with cucumber, squash, and a tart and tasty honey-lemon vinaigrette.

You can’t go wrong with any of the pasta dishes, but I’m partial to the gnocchi with truffle, walnut, and black garlic. It packs a punch, but it’s worth it.


Giulia

1682 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-441-2800
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Giulia is across the street from the Made By Me pottery store, and it’s one of the best authentic Italian restaurants I’ve ever visited.

The hospitality is unmatched, and the flavors are rich and complex. The servers were charming, and they brought food to our table relatively quickly, considering it was a full house when my friends and I visited. 

All the pasta is made fresh, and the cozy and rustic setting was perfect for the communal tables. They have a delicious wine selection, and I recommend this place to anyone.

See also  Your Guide to Family-Friendly Dining in Boston

I loved the chicken liver crostini that came with a yummy green tomato marmellata. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, though!


Alden & Harlow

40 Brattle St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-864-2100
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Alden & Harlow is a restaurant that sits in the heart of Harvard Square and is an excellent stop for anyone who loves American cuisine in a comfortable atmosphere.

Chef Michael Scelfo offers a fresh-made menu focusing on modernizing classic dishes. They also offer Sunday brunch, which is always a plus.

A great vegetarian option at Alden & Harlow is the hickory smoked carrots.

These come with pickled chiles and fried walnut honey and are hearty enough to be a full dish. I also love the crispy pork belly, which is paired with smoked grits and a rhubarb caponata.

It’s perfect for a cold day!


Coppa Boston

253 Shawmut Ave, Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-391-0902
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Coppa, in the Back Bay near the SoWa Market, has a great neighborhood feel.

The menus are crafted by James Beard winners Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette, focusing on Italian flavors, small dishes, and keeping fresh with the seasons.

I can’t resist starting my time at Coppa with a cheese plate. The cheese rotates, but they’re always top-quality. 

I also get the Caesar salad and arancini.

Coppa has some of the best arancini I’ve ever had! I’m also partial to their soppressata pizza, a white pie topped with spicy dry-aged salami, burrata cheese, and garlic.


Rare Steakhouse

1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149
Phone: 857-770-3300
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Located at the Encore Boston Harbor, Rare Steakhouse offers stunning views. Moreover, the gold and cream decor is tasteful, and everything is elegant from top to bottom.

They were recognized as the highest-rated steakhouse in Boston by Forbes in 2019, and for a good reason. 

Their steaks are exquisite. The choices of American wagyu and authentic Japanese Kobe melt in your mouth. The side dishes are modern and inspired, and you won’t find a better curated wine list in all of Boston.

They also offer private dining and weekly specials.  Notably, all guests must adhere to the business dress code, and children under five years old aren’t allowed. 


Uni Boston

370A Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 617-536-7200
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Uni Boston is located in the Eliot Hotel near the Hynes Convention Center. This sushi-focused restaurant is the concept of chefs Ken Oringer and David Bazirgan.

A modern and lively but welcoming interior brings you in for fresh seafood and amazing cocktails.

Any of Uni’s sushi is fresh and fantastic, but I like to take it a step further and get the wok roasted lobster.

Lobster is a New England specialty, but this dish gives it a decidedly Asian twist, served with laksa curry, macadamia nuts, and oyster mushrooms. 

Their golden milk cremeux is the perfect end to the meal.


Season to Taste

2447 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
Phone: 617-871-9468
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This small neighborhood restaurant, nestled right outside Davis Square, came from a takeout and catering business (and, yes, you can still get takeout!).

The focus here is on clean, simple flavors, some seasonal specials, and amazing wine pairings. The interior is focused and simple.

Season to Taste does an amazing chicken confit that they call the Statler chicken breast.

This confit thigh is glazed with tamarind and served alongside swiss chard, spiced sweet potato puree, aloo rings, and pickled golden raisins.

Their Rhode Island clams are a twist on a New England classic to start your meal off right.


Chickadee

21 Drydock Ave, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-531-5591
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Chickadee is a hip, chic Mediterranean restaurant located in the Seaport District. It sits within the Innovation and Design Building, so the surroundings are something you simply have to see. 

Since opening in 2018, Chickadee has been nominated for a James Beard Award and is consistently rated as one of the top restaurants in Boston.

Their menu focuses on spotlighting local food producers.

If you have a chance to get to Chickadee, you have to get an order of their marinated beets.

These come with goat cheese, pistachio, and ras al hanout. After just one order, I was officially convinced!


Ostra Boston

1 Charles St S, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-421-1200
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Ostra sits in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay.

The menu focuses on specialty seafood, with preparations varying from Mediterranean to various regions in the United States.

The dining room is stylish, sophisticated, and feels upscale.

Ostra’s raw bar selection changes daily, so you know you’re always getting the freshest seafood straight out of the Atlantic Ocean.

If you’re looking to impress a date, get the salt-crusted branzino. This dish is a spectacle, with a whole fish coming out in a salt crust and surrounded by seasonal sides.

It takes a little time, but the result is a sight to behold.


Mistral Bistro

223 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-867-9300
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Also in the Back Bay is Mistral Bistro, a refined bistro serving up French and Mediterranean flavors in an elegant setting. 

With decor that’s reminiscent of many of the bistros you’d see in the Provence region, chef Jamie Mammano focuses on seasonal food that will leave you wanting to make a quick return visit.

Mistral offers thin, crisp pizzas, including one with white cheese, ricotta, hot pepper, and arugula that’s fantastic.

I also recommend any of their seafood entrees.

They rotate seasonally, but the seafood is always fresh and well-prepared with seasonal sides that act to complete the experience.

They even have a private area if you want to have a larger group for a special occasion. Enjoy!


Fox & The Knife

28 W Broadway, Boston, MA 02127
Phone: 617-766-8630
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Just steps away from the Broadway T stop, Fox & The Knife is the first solo restaurant for Top Chef alumni Karen Akunowicz.

Akunowicz is also a past James Beard Award winner, so she brings some serious experience.

This restaurant specializes in bold, soul-pleasing Italian food in a comfortable atmosphere.

The prosciutto e melone is a fantastic starter with heirloom melon and prosciutto di parma combining into an amazing salad.

I also recommend the spaghetti con vognole with saffron, clams, and tomato butter. And, if you find a pasta you love, you can even take some away to cook at home.


Mooncusser

304 Stuart St, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-917-5193
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Mooncusser is near the Lighthouse ArtSpace Boston theater. They feature a multi-course, seasonal menu with delightful seafood fare as the focal point.

The local flavors are outstanding, as they use the freshest ingredients. The four-course tasting menu is delectable, and they offer many globally-inspired dishes as well in this chic restaurant that has intimate, warm vibes.

The cocktails were delicious, very exotic, and presented beautifully. I ordered the braised duck leg, which was so tender and juicy.

The professionalism and attentiveness of the staff made this a wonderful experience that I would recommend to anyone visiting Boston.


Sorellina

1 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-412-4600
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Describing itself as “chic, warm, elegant, stylish,” Sorellina is an upscale Italian restaurant located in historic Copley Square.

Sorellina is a fantastic spot for a business meeting or a night out focusing on modern interpretations of classic Italian flavors and preparations.

Start your meal right with the arugula salad, accompanied by pine nuts, truffled pecorino cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette.

The veal milanese is simply delicious, with soft polenta and oven-cured tomatoes bringing a fresh, new twist to the classic. 

An enormous eggplant rollatini is available as a side dish and is great as a shareable.


Yvonne’s

2 Winter Pl, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-267-0047
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Yvonne’s, sitting right off of Boston Common, offers an incredibly unique experience. This supper club has a very refined sort of feel with lots of marble and mahogany accents.

However, the experience and the menu are very playful, focusing on family-style meals and big flavors.

The crispy korroke is a great snack for the table, and definitely not something you’d find at a traditional supper club.

Japanese sweet potato is fried and served with tonkatsu sauce and togarashi cheddar. It’s a funky and crunchy treat! 

Big plates like chicken and quinoa meatballs and octopus toluca will satisfy your entire group.


Toro Boston

1704 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-536-4300
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Toro is a tapas restaurant by acclaimed chef Ken Oringer. Sitting in the South End on Washington Street, Toro provides guests with an upscale, refined, and fun experience.

The small plates make it an ideal experience for couples or groups. Toro also offers takeout and delivery so you can enjoy it at home.

The tapas change seasonally, so you’ll never see the same menu twice. No matter what time of year you’re there, you absolutely have to start with one of their meat and cheese boards.

See also  Where to Enjoy Tapas & Small Plates in Boston

Couple that with a glass of Spanish wine, and you’ll be having an excellent time.


Row 34

383 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-553-5900
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Row 34, in the very trendy Fort Point district near South Station, is very stylish.

When you enter, you’ll see a ton of brick and wood, and it’s the perfect surroundings for the oysters, seafood dishes, and craft beer that Row 34 specializes in.

The raw bar is a must, with various oysters and other delicacies available on a rotating basis.

The seafood-focused menu has a bunch of other highlights, including the New England clam chowder, lobster rolls (both cold and hot buttered are available), and fried fish tacos.

The shoestring fries are perfect with anything on the menu.


Grill 23 & Bar

161 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-542-2255
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Grill 23 & Bar is in the Comparion Insurance Agency facility near the Boston Fire Department. They specialize in steak and seafood, and they also have an award-winning wine list that continues to evolve to include new selections.

Grill 23 is a classy steakhouse known for its dry-aged beef cuts and inventive dishes. 

My favorite part of visiting this restaurant was the fine cigars they offered, with a charming presentation after dinner.

I ordered the french onion soup, a 16 oz ribeye, and their famous coconut cake, and I loved every bite. Keep in mind this restaurant is a bit pricey but worth it. 


Neptune Oyster

63 Salem St # 1, Boston, MA 02113
Phone: 617-742-3474
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Locals love Neptune Oyster, which sits between Haymarket and the Paul Revere House.

With subway tile walls and tin ceilings, Neptune Oyster feels like a traditional oyster house, and it has the menu to match. Neptune Oyster is small and fills fast, so plan ahead!

The raw bar is a must, and I recommend the Wellfleet clam chowder, which is made with the very traditional salt pork as well as thyme.

Neptune Oyster also has a delicious Maine peekytoe crab salad, made with butter lettuce, avocado, and an almond vinaigrette.

It’s like a crab roll but in salad form.


Bistro du Midi

272 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-279-8000
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A block away from the Boston Park Plaza is the Bistro du Midi, renowned for serving French cuisine in addition to New England coastal influences.

At this eatery, the chic ambiance sets a mood that’s ideal for special occasions alike. The interior is gorgeous, and the lighting does wonders for the overall atmosphere.

The menu is very eclectic and has something for everyone. On our visit, I tried the duck breast, and I wasn’t disappointed in the least. It was a succulent piece of meat served with sides of your choice.

There are many more delectable dishes that you can try, full of flavor and plated beautifully.


Mo’Rockin Fusion

100 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-487-9453
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Mo’Rockin Fusion is a different experience from a lot of the other places on this list, but that makes it very special.

Located in the bustling Boston Public Market, Mo’Rockin Fusion offers authentic Moroccan flavors in a fast and casual grab-and-go setting.

The key to Mo’Rockin Fusion’s menu is that it’s very customizable.

Diners can choose to build their own pita or bowl and pick the protein, the spread, the vegetables, and the sauces. 

For me, the ideal combo is the pita with hummus, sweet lamb, Moroccan salad, and white garlic sauce. There are endless combinations, and they’re all good!


Spoke Wine Bar

89 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144
Phone: 617-718-9463
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Spoke Wine Bar is in Somerville’s Davis Square neighborhood, and their New England plates and exceptional wine list make for a delightful spot to visit for dinner.

It’s an intimate restaurant with limited seating, but if you can get in, you’ll be glad you did. 

The menu is eclectic, and some find it to be an acquired taste, but I really enjoyed their smoked butterbean dip and Black Trumpet Mushroom Ravioli All’Uovo.

I can’t tell you everything that was in it, but I can say it was one of the best dishes I have ever eaten!


No.9 Park

9 Park St Pl, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-742-9991
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As one of the flagships of chef Barbara Lynch, No. 9 Park has a big reputation in Boston.

Routinely rated as one of the top restaurants in the area, Lynch serves refined French and Italian cuisine in a high-class European setting.

Rich woods and antique chandeliers add an extremely old-world ambiance.

No. 9 Park offers their menu a la carte, but I strongly recommend the five-course tasting menu if you’re visiting. 

The options rotate here, but you’re guaranteed an amazing experience consisting of the best ingredients cooked with incredible technique.

For an extra treat, wine pairings to perfectly complement each of the courses are available.


Tawakal Halal Cafe

389 Maverick St, Boston, MA 02128
Phone: 617-418-5890
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The Tawakal Halal Cafè is near the Massport Harborwalk Park, and it’s one of my favorite restaurant on this list! They have the best desserts, and their take on traditional East African fare, primarily from Somalia, is second to none in Boston.

They also serve Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern cuisine, so I love that there’s so much variety in one place. 

The modest decor is inviting, and I love visiting Tawakal with friends. They only use halal meats, and all the ingredients are always fresh. 

The goat biryani and chapati wrap are full of exotic spices and deep flavors that I can’t get enough of when I’m in town. 


Deuxave

371 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-517-5915
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Deuxave, in the Back Bay, is one of Boston’s premier fine-dining restaurants to celebrate anniversaries, work events, or just the end of a long week.

Chef Christopher Coombs serves modern French and American dishes in a chic environment, marked by high-backed booths and a fireplace.

Lobster gnocchi fricassee is a show-stopping starter dish, with a half-lobster served with potato gnocchi and chanterelle mushrooms and finished with a citrus tarragon glaze.

These go great with the pan-seared sea scallops. These are served alongside calamari, mustard greens, chorizo, and a beet puree.

Summer squash with pancetta is a great side dish.


Sam LaGrassa’s

44 Province St, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-357-6861
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If you want one of Boston’s most famous sandwich shops, look no further than Sam LaGrassa’s.

This spot has been family-owned and operated since 1968 and has become legendary in the area for its gourmet sandwiches.

Lines are nearly always long, so order ahead online if you can!

The restaurant offers daily specials, which are almost always great. You can’t go wrong, though, with their world-famous pastrami, which is offered in a variety of different sandwiches.

I’m also a huge fan of Sam LaGrassa’s roast beef, which you can customize any way you like. I go with barbecue sauce and mayonnaise.


Mario’s Restaurant

347 Chelsea St, Boston, MA 02128
Phone: 617-567-8608
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Next, we’re taking a trip over toward Logan Airport in East Boston to stop at Mario’s Restaurant.

There you’ll find a casual spot serving up warm and comfortable Italian food that feels like it’s coming from your grandmother’s house. Mario’s specializes in pasta and other hearty Italian specialties.

For me, any meal at Mario’s starts with the melanzane. This is a huge piece of eggplant smothered in homemade marinara as well as mozzarella.

It’s warm, melty, and delicious. I also keep coming back for Mario’s bolognese, a classic ragu of veal, pork, and beef, served over a bed of pappardelle pasta.


Bar Mezzana

360 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-530-1770
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Bar Mezzana is an authentic Italian restaurant in the Ink Block neighborhood in downtown Boston. The space is sleek and vibrant, and the environment is welcoming.

Bar Mezzana is also open for brunch on the weekends. I enjoyed my meal while sitting outside with the heat lamps last fall, which was pleasant. 

Their menu is small, but I can vouch for everything I tried being quite delicious.

There seemed to be something for everyone’s palate, as no one in my group of friends had a negative remark about all the dishes we tried. My favorite was the grilled octopus and the Lobster Paccheri.


Mamma Maria

3 N Square, Boston, MA 02113
Phone: 617-523-0077
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Mamma Maria is a restaurant located near some of Boston’s most famous historical landmarks. With its dining room in a rustic-feeling townhouse, you can picture Mamma Maria fitting right in. 

The difference, however, is in Mamma Maria’s menu, which is focused on refined Italian cuisine and local ingredients.

See also  The Ultimate Guide to Delicious Korean BBQ in Boston

The mozzarella and warm tomatoes dish has buffalo mozzarella flown in from Italy mixed with sauteed tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s a great appetizer. 

I also always recommend the clam and crab meat pasta, with seafood from New England, toasted pine nuts, and Parma prosciutto. It’s the perfect combination of Italy and Boston.


Blossom Bar

295 Washington St, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: 617-734-1870
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Located across the street from Starbucks, the Blossom Bar is a must-try if you visit Boston. It’s a cozy restaurant with tasteful decor, serving specialty cocktails and authentic Sichuan dishes that pack a punch.

If you don’t like spicy foods, this may not be the place for you! The food was innovative and flavorful, which I appreciated from this Asian fusion powerhouse.

My favorite part of this trip, however, was their delicious cocktails. The presentation was lovely, and they had non-alcoholic options. I tried Duan’s Whip and Angie Valencia.

For dinner, I loved their crispy scallion pancakes and the Kung Pao Chicken, which was intensely HOT and equally tasty. 


Brassica Kitchen + Café

3710 Washington St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Phone: 617-477-4519
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Brassica is a hip café located in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood. By day, you can stop in and grab an espresso and a variety of breakfast delights.

By night, Brassica serves signature cocktails and European-style meals. Whatever time of day you go, you’re in for a treat at this favorite restaurant.

At breakfast, I recommend the Low Country, a breakfast sandwich with egg, sausage, crispy cheddar, and grape jelly served on brioche.

It goes great with a cappuccino. 

For dinner, check out the B.K. fried rice, which is made with onions, chives, and shallots. You can add signature fried chicken or crab meat to give a little extra punch.


Ilona

783 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-207-7742
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If you know where the Worcester Street Community Garden is, then you won’t have trouble finding the lively restaurant and lounge bar serving up authentic dishes and sophisticated cocktails known as Ilona. The Mediterranean sharing plates are elegant and bound to leave a lasting impression on you.

The interior exudes exquisiteness, and the food is on par with Ilona’s design. You have to get a load of the crispy eggplant—the texture is perfect, and it’s accompanied by all the right flavors!

The Lamb Souvlaki is a grilled dish that is simply sublime—you should try it on your visit and don’t wash it down with one of their many elegant drinks, such as the Passion Martini.


Cafe Beatrice

100 N First St, Cambridge, MA 02141
Phone: 617-945-1349
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Cafe Beatrice sits in a very trendy part of Cambridge and is a spectacular place to grab breakfast or a light lunch.

Cafe Beatrice feels comfortable and is a place you can bring a laptop and work. At night, Cafe Beatrice turns into The Lexington, which is a terrific dinner spot.

Cafe Beatrice’s blueberry coffee cake is fabulous, made with fresh fillings and topped with an addictive crumb.

It’s a match with any of their espresso drinks.

For lunch, I usually go with the braised pork sandwich. Pork, aged provolone, and broccoli rabe on a sub roll. What else can you ask for?


Menton

354 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-737-0099
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Menton serves up French-Italian hybrid cuisine, and you can find it near the Boston Fire Museum. Menton is the pinnacle of high-end restaurants where food presentation, elegance, and taste are performed at the highest level. 

Stop by Menton for a sophisticated dining experience as you taste exquisite dishes such as the Wagyu Tenderloin, Seared Foie Gras, the Tunis Lamb, and many more.

Just be sure you’re prepared to spend a pretty penny, as the prices are really high.


El Oriental de Cuba

416 Centre St, Boston, MA 02130
Phone: 617-524-6464
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El Oriental de Cuba is not too far from Whole Foods Market. Here you can get your fill of traditional Cuban dishes set in rustic digs—a perfect place for people looking to have a good meal and time.

Visit El Oriental de Cuba to chow down on incredible cuisine and enjoy the staff’s excellent service.

They recommend delicious dishes such as empanadas, Topa Veja, Bistec a Caballo, and many more elegant dishes. If you’re looking to have something a little outside of the box, the Black Paella Seafood will surely do the trick!


Puritan & Company

1166 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: 617-615-6195
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If you’re ever in the Wellington-Harrington neighborhood, you must drop by Puritan & Company. It has a rustic/industrial look about it, and the vibe is light-hearted—a perfect destination to have a family dinner.

Here you’ll have your choice of American and traditional English fare. You can tell that a lot of attention goes into preparing their food, and the staff is simply delightful.

I loved the East Coast oysters in regards to taste and presentation, and my Moxie-Glazed Lamb Belly had a remarkable depth of flavor. The meal itself was truly unforgettable.


The Boston Sail Loft

80 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02110
Phone: 617-227-7280
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The Boston Sail Loft is a New England classic. It’s located in the middle of Boston’s historic district and offers a no-frills dining experience.

What makes this place special is that the menu is authentically New England. Plus, if you’re lucky, you can get a dining spot right on the water.

Boston Sail Loft’s signature dish is their clam chowder. Creamy, hot, and loaded with clams, it’s everything you want from a chowder.

You can also get a combination with a half sandwich. You can also get a variety of fried seafood.

It’s some of the best Boston has to offer.


Haley Henry

45 Province St, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: 617-208-6000
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Just a little ways down and across the street from the Park Street Church, you’ll find a fine eating establishment known as Haley Henry.

Here you can bring a couple of friends to take in the modern industrial design of the interior, which feels warm and welcoming. 

Stop by an intimate wine bar to enjoy drinks and a great meal. The dishes here are just as elegant as the drinks, and the staff is personable and attentive—ready to give suggestions at the drop of a hat.

If you ever make it out to Haley Henry, try the seared tuna, Fall pumpkin risotto, or Pan Con Tomate, or if you visit with a group!


Atlantic Fish Company

761 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-267-4000
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We’re wrapping up our tour of Boston on Boylston Street at the Atlantic Fish Company.

This restaurant is a Boston staple. It has a refined-feeling interior and sidewalk seating for warmer weather, and, as you might guess, the focus here is all about the seafood.

The steamers here are simple, served with just sides of drawn butter and broth, but they’re cooked perfectly and are extremely addictive. 

Seafood is the star here and is available in traditional varieties, such as a perfect fish and chips and pasta dishes like a shrimp scampi or the signature fisherman’s pasta.


Dakzen

195 Elm St, Somerville, MA 02144
Phone: 617-718-1759
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Dakzen is a place to go when you want to experience authentic Thailand fare, and you can find it a couple of blocks away from Kenney Park.

Dakzen is a down-to-earth eatery with a modest and cozy interior; it’s a place where you can enjoy a casual and delicious meal with friends or family.

The Thai food is fantastic—the soups and the noodles all have the authentic Thai flavor that I was looking for. If you’re ever in this neck of the woods—drop by and try the classic Pad Thai, Boat Noodle soup, or the Drunken Noodles.

If you’re craving Thai food, this is the place to be!


As you can see, Boston is an amazing food city. Whether you want steak, seafood, Italian, Japanese, fusion cuisine, or anything in between, my selection of Boston restaurants has you covered. 

Whether you’re out at the museums, going to see the Red Sox, or at a convention, go out and check some of the local places.

I promise that you’re going to have a great meal and a great time.

Looking for other great places to eat around Boston? Check out our favorite pizzerias by clicking here.

Did we leave a restaurant out of this list? Make sure you leave us a comment, and we’ll check it out!

Why Trust Us?

When it comes to local restaurant recommendations, we pride ourselves on being a reliable and trustworthy resource. Our suggestions are not just based on our personal experiences, ensuring a more authentic and well-rounded perspective, but also on extensive online research. We diligently searched the internet and reviewed 6 credible sites and blogs, including Timeout.com and Bostonmagazine.com. 

We compiled all the findings in one location and sorted them by the frequency of mentions to ensure you receive top-notch recommendations. We strive to present you with a curated list of establishments that truly stand out, allowing you to enjoy the best dining experiences possible. 

Interested in the sources we consulted? Check out the list of all 6 sites we referenced below this paragraph, offering transparency and an opportunity for our readers to explore further. Our commitment is to deliver trustworthy and unparalleled recommendations, helping you make informed decisions on your culinary journeys.

https://www.timeout.com/boston/restaurants/the-34-best-boston-restaurants-right-now
https://www.bostonmagazine.com/restaurants/best-restaurants-in-boston/
https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-boston-38
https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-restaurants-in-boston
https://www.tastingtable.com/1314669/best-restaurants-boston/
https://www.theinfatuation.com/boston/guides/best-restaurants-in-boston-greatest-hits-list

4 Comments

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  1. Please rethink next years review, cause you missed one great place in Eastie. Rino’s on Saratoga Street. One of the very best Italian Restaurants in Boston

    • I live in Boston and have tried most of the restaurants in this list and spend a lot of time looking into restaurants. Overall this is the best list I have seen for restaurants in Boston and will probably just send this to people in the future when they need recommendations. I am going to give a few of these a try in the coming weeks. These are a few I think you should consider trying: Buttermilk and Bourbon’s Sunday brunch, Mooo’s ribeye is a close second to Grill 23 with more modern apps/atmosphere, Committee for the lamb chops, Drink for the unique cocktails and you should try the fries, Umami Omakase if you can’t get into O Ya, Bricco sulameria for a less expensive caprese sandwich, Forcella’s chicken parm is the best I’ve had, Nautilus for the duck if you have a group but also get the tuna chips and dip. I’m sure there are some I’m forgetting, but looking forward to using this list!

  2. I live in Boston and have tried most of the restaurants in this list and spend a lot of time looking into restaurants. Overall this is the best list I have seen for restaurants in Boston and will probably just send this to people in the future when they need recommendations. I am going to give a few of these a try in the coming weeks. These are a few I think you should consider trying: Buttermilk and Bourbon’s Sunday brunch, Mooo’s ribeye is a close second to Grill 23 with more modern apps/atmosphere, Committee for the lamb chops, Drink for the unique cocktails and you should try the fries, Umami Omakase if you can’t get into O Ya, Bricco sulameria for a less expensive caprese sandwich, Forcella’s chicken parm is the best I’ve had, Nautilus for the duck if you have a group but also get the tuna chips and dip. I’m sure there are some I’m forgetting, but looking forward to using this list!

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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