BOSTON Restaurants
THE DAILY CATCH (North End) •
Cost: $$$ Ambiance: Traditional sit down spot with kitchen in plain site.
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The experience is unmatched as the chefs continuously chef up the freshest seafood (literally caught the same day) inches from your table.
They’ve expanded to multiple locations now but the food remains top tier. All their pastas are tried and true family recipes. My favorite dish to date (in life) is their “Black Squid Ink Pasta”. Puffy, fresh and with a hint of garlic. Their monkfish is so tender it will split on your fork then nearly dissolve on each bite. One of my first stops every time I’m back in New England.
EVENtide (fenway)
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Cost: $$$ Ambiance: Upscale yet casual sit-down vibe.
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The “Brown Butter Lobster Roll” will change ya life. It’s a warm soft bun packed with glistening brown lobster drenched in butter batter. They also feature an amazing ice cream to match, with a maple flavor and caramel that’s undeniably great.
Step inside to get a glimpse of the endless New England classics and incredibly fresh ingredients visible from all angles.
THE PEARL (South Bay) •
Cost: $$$ Ambiance: Upscale sleek and comfortable.
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Black owned upscale seafood with a glowing ambiance and staff.
Locally sourced seafood & eclectic menu items that include rotating drink options. Everything about this restaurant is worthy of a visit. LLALTB approved.
Moonshine 152 (southie)
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Cost: $$ Ambiance: Brunch vibe, chill casual dining.
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Ran by Chef Asia who can do everything from greeting guests, to cooking and food running, this spot is a must if you’re in the Southie area. Regional dishes with Asian influence cover the menu and everything is made extremely fresh.
The staff and vibe is very family oriented and knowledge of the evolving menu is plentiful with those working. This is great atmosphere that is worth repeated visits.
MONICA’S TRATTORIA (North End) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Upscale Italian dining.
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With long standing traditions including handmade pastas and breads you can’t beat the authenticity here.
Locally sourced muscles, shrimp, lobster and more create and undeniably rich menu with bountiful amounts of goodness. Old Dirty Boston approved.
SUYA JOINT (Roxbury) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Vibrant casual dining.
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Mesmerizing glazes and spices of authentic Nigerian cooking styles transform chicken wings and beef into a one of a kind experience.
Authentic beers and drinks from Africa are noteworthy options here as well. LLALTB approved.
RINCON LIMENO (East Boston & Revere) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Family style casual dining.
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Electric spices and potent homemade sauces smother everything from towering ceviche dishes to fried red snappers.
Amazing staff and the family pride in this spot is remarkable. One of my favorite Peruvian spots I’ve ever had! Old Dirty Boston approved.
Murl’s kitchen (dorchester)•
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Highly recommend take-out/catering.
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Murl’s isn’t a huge sit down spot but that’s because the majority of the space is their gigantic kitchen, where their focus is, on the food. From oxtail to lobster tail and jerk mac and cheese it’s a homerun derby of a menu.
Once that mac & cheese is gone for the day though it’s gone, so take note and get there early. Sizzling sauces and cauldrons of homemade sauces create endless dishes filled with rice and fresh vegetables to pair with hearty meals. Try everything from here.
HUNTER’S KITCHEN & BAR (Southie) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Casual dining, amazing ambiance.
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Award winning gumbo, 6-cheese mac, hand made cheddar biscuit brisket sliders. Need I say more?
Inside is reminiscent of stepping into a cozy lodge which enhances the amazing experience.
CLUB DANTE (Brookline) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Casual bar lounge style dining.
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This spot deserves awards. Chef Dave has an amazing story of resiliency and maintains an impressive menu.
Crispy Eggplant Caprese busts with flavor and the scallop bacon pizza is unmatched!
COMFORT KITCHEN (Dorchester) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Cozy cafe by day, restaurant by night.
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Appetizing brunch options that transform into a full dinner vibe at night.
From fresh fish and more this amazing spot celebrates delicious flavors from the African diaspora.
M&M BBQ (Dorchester) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: Plenty of seating inside Dorchester Brewing.
Surrounded by a nearly endless amount of amazing beer options at Dorchester Brewing, this spot has family recipe BBQ that is the perfect pair.
The brisket and ribs are cooked over night and are seasoned to perfection. Great people, great food! LLALTB approved.
TRE MONTE (North End) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Upscale casual Italian dining.
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Substantial amounts of local seafood spread across beds of pasta and more.
A diverse array of wines and drinks pair well with the plentiful Italian classic dishes that line the menu.
MIlano’s Deli (East Boston) •
Cost: $$
Ambiance: Quick dining, heavy on take-out and catering.
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If you have an infatuation for Italian classics look no further. Milano’s is embedded in the East Boston community serving up generously sized portions.
From wings, salads, cold subs and more to their legendary chicken parm’s they have what you’re looking for. I would recommend going on an empty stomach and with a friend to fill up on their hearty meals. The owner is amazing too tell him Kroot and I sent you.
Toro (South end) •
Cost: $$$
Ambiance: Casual upscale vibe, great for small groups.
Good food has to be shared. That’s a rule of life. Toro specializes in tasteful options that are small enough to share with family and friends.
From corn slathered in cheese, aoli and lime to churros, olives and fish the options are ongoing.
James Hook & Co (North End/Seaport) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Modern Lobster shack with outdoor picnic table style seating.
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This family owned and operated spot has housed some of Boston’s largest and oldest largest lobsters I’ve ever seen. Ranging from warm sauce covered lobster rolls with toasted buns to the classics, they have what you’re looking for within arms reach of the ocean.
This spot is great to drop by for a quick bite before continuing on your way toward the ever-expanding Seaport district of the city. Darius approved!
SOLEIL (NUBIAN SQUARE) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Fast casual dining and catering.
Precisely battered shrimp and fish sandwiches to football sized chicken wraps, they have it all.
Great atmosphere to relax, work, or catch up with friends and family over excellent food and drinks. Live Like A Local Tours Boston (LLALTB) approved.
MONICA’S MERCATO (North End) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: Fast paced Italian deli.
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Widely regarded as the best Italian sub you can get your hands on in Boston.
Freshly prepared and imported meats which hang like chandeliers from the rafters. Deep family traditions in each menu option.
CRAZY GOOD KITCHEN (Newbury St.) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Factory, private tours only. (Order online)
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A pioneer restaurant on Newbury street for breathtaking burgers and fries, this spot is an experience.
Burgers drowning in cheese and tender buffalo chicken lounging on a bed of perfectly cooked fries will have you coming back.
REELHOUSE (SEAPORT) •
Cost: $$$ Ambiance: Lively oyster bar.
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Oceanside eatery boasting oysters, seafood and late night pizza.
Cozy inside with sprawling views.
ASSAGIO (North End) •
Cost: $$$ Ambiance: Relaxing family style vibe.
Pasta dishes served fresh to your table still in the pan.
Inviting ambiance with pasta classics, steaks and cocktails.
LUCCA (North End) •
Cost: $$$ Ambiance: Low lit Italian joint.
Neighborhood style dining with a lively bar and seating area upstairs, more intimate vibe downstairs.
Great desert options as well as the traditional go to’s as well.
MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB (Seaport) •
Cost: $$$$ Ambiance: Fancy, white table clothes and suits.
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Elegant dining, with live piano music on certain days.
Seafood tower, caviar, bone marrow & more. The lobster mac is a must.
mamma Maria (North End) •
Cost: $$$ Ambiance: High end dining.
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Step inside for an unmatched experience at one of the oldest public squares in history. This restaurant sits in a 19th century row house and serves nationally acclaimed Italian food.
Wines, mezcal and more stretch an impressive drink list and the pastas are undefeated.
LUNA’S (East Boston) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Casual dining vibe.
Lobster omelette options for brunch and shrimp scampi for dinner, wide variety of options here.
Arepas, burgers and steak tips are also choices at this casual dining spot in Eastie.
TASTY BURGER (Fenway) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Classic neighborhood burger joint.
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A classic in the Fenway area since 2010. Friendly environment and stifling burger creations.
You can even get a 6-pack of burgers here. Great stop for all things burgers, beer and patty melts.
LEGAL SEA FOODS (Seaport) •
Cost: $$$ Ambiance: Upscale casual waterfront vibe.
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Fresh seafood with astonishing views of the ever in motion Boston Harbor.
An elegant and welcoming ambiance with seating downstairs as well as a lively atmosphere and bar on the rooftop.
BOSTON SAIL LOFT (North End) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Casual family friendly restaurant on the water.
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This spot boasts Boston’s “best chowder” and options such as cajun popcorn shrimp.
Great ambiance right on the water and the fresh fish and fries are standouts.
THORNTON’s Fenway Grille (Fenway) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Neighborhood and family casual eatery.
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Top tier spot just a few blocks from the madness of Fenway on game days. Consider coming here for a breakfast before a Sox game.
Close enough to Fenway that the Boston sports energy still lingers but the location is laid back. Great mix between a neighborhood eatery and a sports bar. Engineer Rob Whitaker loves it here.
L StREET DINER (Southie) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Fancy, white table clothes and suits.
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A townie classic. No frills, just straight to the breakfast staples & pizza.
Some of the staff has worked there for decades. A must try if you want a true local experience.
75 wharf (Liberty Wharf, Seaport) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Seaside upscale casual vibe.
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Literally yards away from both the ocean and the historic Boston Fish Pier, this spot stocks up on fresh fish and lobster daily.
From shelling the lobster on location to puffy fish tacos with Sam Adams IPA beer batter coating, you’ll have two things, amazing food and an amazing view to match.
BOVA’S BAKERY (North End) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: Quick stop bakery.
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A 24-hour haven for confection. From late night pizza slices to fresh made cannolis and pastries galore.
Definitely worth a stop for desserts and quick eats on the go!
SLADE’S BAR & GRILL (Roxbury) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Casual bar style dining.
A pillar in Roxbury, Slade’s was once owned by Bill Russell. Relishing soul food classics from fried fish to their gigantic fried chicken.
Fried okra is a great option to get your meal started. DJ’s on weekends too!
PAULI’S (North End) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Quick stop casual vibe.
Locally trusted & respected. Great options, quick service and heavy accents.
Great bread on lobster rolls & Italian subs and hearty portions of ingredients. What Did You Eat Today Sir certified.
TRADE (Seaport) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Upscale casual eatery.
Mediterranean dishes with a low lit warm ambiance. Great shareable dishes available.
Great spot for family get togethers and an entertaining drink list.
OASIS VEGAN VEGGIE PARLOR (Dorchester) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: Corner store style juice bar.
Flourishing smoothies and fresh juices inside this warm and welcoming corner store style shop.
Vegan options galore for food and a plethora of flavors for smoothies with the ability to customize them how you like.
MOTHER ANNA’S (North End) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Casual family style vibe.
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Snug and warm atmosphere, close seating, mirrors on the walls.
Blackened chicken and pasta combination is legendary. Great wine options to pair with your food as well.
ERNESTO’S (North End) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: “Old world pizzeria”.
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Debates ensue about this being the best pizza in town. The one slice option is so big that they cut it in two for you.
Lines form frequently. Once you indulge in the quality and price, it all makes sense.
GOING BANANAS (NOrth ENd) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: Corner store style sub shop.
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Hidden gem sandwich shop tucked in the back of an unassuming market/corner store.
Subs pack flavor and meats are cut fresh right in front of you.
BOSTONIA PUBLIC HOUSE (North End) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Casual dining vibe.
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Great bar style restaurant to catch up or have a meeting over food and drinks.
From burrata to clam chowder and brunch options, the versatility with dishes is notable.
CASK ‘N Flagon •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: High energy bar vibe.
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One of the busiest sports bars in the city. Don’t sleep on their food either.
Boasting an expensive smoker, top quality BBQ options and classic American cuisine options satisfy all your hunger before and during big game days!
PON DE JOY (Allston) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: Donut shop in food court.
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A soft and chewy version of donut that is unrivaled in it’s field in my eyes.
These donuts feel a bit lighter yet still pack a punch of flavor. Located inside Super88 Market.
Ron’s gourmet ice cream (hyde Park) •
Cost: $ Ambiance: Bowling & family vibe.
Sitting in Hyde Park this is the perfect place for kids or a chill date. Ice cream and bowling go hand in hand as the flavors of ice cream churn for hours. Staff is extremely nice and knowledgeable.
Make sure you try their ice cream cakes and other assorted specialties. Soft serve options are plentiful and the owner Ron himself told me to remember that mint ice cream will only appear green because of food coloring. Deanna approved!
my grandma’S of new england (Hyde park) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Factory, private tours only. (Order online)
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Stemming from a cinnamon walnut coffee cake in the 90’s this spot has continued to rise in the ranks of the pastry gods. Hands down the best coffee cake I’ve had in my life.
Family owned and operated, these guys work to ship out an absurd number of cakes. The wafting scents will stick with you for months afterwards. Hand mixed, the rack ovens stay full and they even offer pre sliced versions and mini cakes. Order some ASAP. Shoutout to Will, Vinny & the entire staff!
Yoki Express (Seaport) •
Cost: $$ Ambiance: Fast casual innovative sushi joint.
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Fresh wrapped sushi burritos and more, LA-esque options here range the Subway sandwich style sushi bar.
Food is prepared to order and you can add all your favorite sushi classics to burritos from shrimp to salmon and tofu.
