Must Eat Places in Boston – A Guide to the Best Restaurants
A common question I often hear is “Does Boston have good food?” And my answer to that is of course it does! Lots of amazing food to go around. There are the typical New England well-knowns like lobster roll and clam chowder (which you absolutely must try) but there’s also plenty more.
If you’re planning a trip to Boston, or even if you’re a local looking for some new places to try, you won’t want to miss out on these amazing restaurants. From iconic seafood spots to trendy new eateries, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So whether you’re in the mood for some classic New England fare or something a little more adventurous, be sure to check out these must-eat places in Boston.
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Must Visit Restaurants in Boston
So what places can you not afford to miss when you’re visiting Boston? Make sure you have at least some really good italian food, seafood, a cannoli (obviously), and of course a great brunch spot. This list is a compilation of our absolute favorites in the city that are also top-rated.
1. Tatte Bakery and Café
Tatte (pronounced tah-tay) is like a rite of passage when it comes to visiting (and living in) Boston. One of the best places to check out for great breakfast sandwiches, or really any of their sandwiches. They also have amazing coffee and delicious pastries that are absolutely heaven.
This is a great spot for a quick breakfast or even one that you want to enjoy the aesthetic of as everything is stunning inside. If you don’t believe me, just check out their Instagram. You definitely want to add this place to your list of must eat places in Boston. Trust me.
Pro-tip: Check out the Tatte in Cambridge for the most aesthetic experience of them all!
Must try: Breakfast sandwiches, Ricotta Tartine
Related: The best brunch in Boston
2. Mike’s Pastry/Modern Pastry
These are two places in the North End of Boston that are known for their fabulous cannoli’s. These two are also the subject of the age-old debate here in Boston: Mike’s vs. Modern. At some point you’ll have to draw the line of where your loyalty lies… just kidding (mostly).
You can go to whichever you want but I find myself leaning more towards Modern Pastry. One thing you’ll notice is that Mike’s line is consistently far too long for my taste. Mike’s also only takes cash while Modern takes card as well. You can grab more than cannoli’s at either place so you’ll have choices between many kinds of pastries that won’t disappoint.
Must try: Obviously the cannoli’s, cream puffs
3. Eataly
If you want to be instantly transported to Italy while you have the option to shop through aisles and aisles of Italian food, Eataly is the place for you. This trendy market has multiple restaurants inside to choose from as well as a gelato line and a coffee shop.
You can pretty much hit all of your food and dessert needs in one sitting. Whether you’re craving pizza, pasta, or some really great wine, this is a great spot to check out. I am absolutely crazy about their pizza in the downstairs restaurant. Incredible crust.
Must try: The wood-fired pizza downstairs, gelato, cocktails
4. The Barking Crab
If you’re looking for a casual spot to eat that also has amazing food, be sure to add The Barking Crab to your list of where to eat in Boston. This seafood-focused restaurant has a relaxed vibe, and it’s right on the water. Summertime at the Barking Crab is like no other.
The food is delicious, and I’m a big fan of the crab dip (how can you go to the Barking Crab and not order something crab-related?). This spot is located in the Seaport neighborhood and makes for a great spot for a fun lunch or dinner.
Must try: Lobster roll, crab dip, anything crab!
5. Legal Harborside
Legal Sea Foods is a pretty popular spot in Boston. People love their seafood choices when they come here, and I understand why. If you’re interested in some awesome seafood and an even more stellar view of the water, this is a fantastic spot for lunch or dinner. It’s also a great spot for drinks.
This iconic restaurant has served up fresh seafood for a long time and it’s still going strong. No matter what you order, from the clam chowder to the oysters or lobster, you won’t be disappointed. This location has several floors which each has its own ‘vibe’ and then there’s the rooftop. The rooftop is my favorite part – it’s a perfect spot for a sunset cocktail or dinner.
Must try: Clam chowder, lobster roll, crab cakes
You might be interested in: How to visit Boston on a budget
6. Buttermilk & Bourbon
If you’re craving some Southern comfort food while you’re in Boston, Buttermilk and Bourbon is a fantastic restaurant to check out. This spot serves up some classics like fried chicken and biscuits as well as more creative twists to classic dishes.
They also offer unique cocktails and delicious desserts. Nothing like being able to enjoy Southern food with a twist in New England, right?
Must try: Fried chicken, beignets, croquettes
7. Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar
Craving some Mexican food or a great margarita? Lolita’s is an awesome option located in the Seaport neighborhood as well as another location in the Back Bay neighborhood. Make sure you snag a reservation as this restaurant often has a long wait (it’s just so good!).
They offer Mexican food with a twist and there are plenty of flavored Margaritas to choose from as well as other cocktails. One of the cool things is they give you cotton candy after your meal and I just haven’t gotten over how fun that is. My inner child is very happy, and I love some good chips and salsa with a Margarita.
Must try: Guacamole, margaritas, the cotton candy!, any of their tacos
8. Bricco
If you’re in the North End (aka little Italy here in Boston) and you’re craving some amazing Italian food and drinks, check out Bricco. It’s on the main road in the neighborhood and it’s a popular spot known for its food and drinks. It also makes a great location for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
I’m a big fan of the espresso martinis here, and I highly recommend them if you’re into coffee after a certain time of the day. They’ve got great pasta here as well as is common in the North End area. Definitely check this spot out for the ambiance and the drinks!
Must try: Espresso Martini, Pasta, Octopus, Tiramisu
9. Bova’s Bakery
A true Boston Institution, Bova’s Bakery has been around for quite some time. This North End spot was founded nearly a century ago and it’s still baking delicious breads, pastries, and more. It’s also one of the only places in Boston that’s open 24 hours which makes it an incredible option for a late-night dessert or snack. Definitely try the pastries here, and I’ve also had many a good cannoli from this spot as well.
Must try: Crème brulee, coconut cake, cannoli
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10. Time Out Market
This spot opened in 2019 in the Fenway neighborhood. It’s a really cool food hall with a little something for everyone to choose from. There are over 20 vendors here and also a bar to grab a drink. There’s even an outdoor space with fun lawn games to enjoy.
These spots are so trendy nowadays, and I love how versatile they are when you have a lot of people in your group– you can literally please everyone.
Must try: Union square donuts, great cocktails, burgers, pizza
11. Quincy Market (Faneuil Hall)
Another famous spot in Boston that pretty much makes the list of every tourist that comes to the area. Quincy Market is a great spot located in the heart of downtown Boston, and it offers lots of food options from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
There are also plenty of souvenir shops and other stores to shop at nearby, so you can walk off whatever meal you decide on. It’s also closer to the harbor area and this makes for a great walkable spot.
Must try: Lobster roll, clam chowder
12. Tasty Burger
Ah, Tasty Burger. This is truly a unique experience in Boston. My favorite Tasty Burger is located in the Fenway neighborhood although there’s also a location near the Back Bay train station.
This is a trendy burger spot known for some great burgers but the real star of the show are their milkshakes. These are made with local ice cream and can be topped with some pretty fun toppings. Be sure to come hungry since you’ll want to save up room for all of this delicious food and dessert.
Must try: Any of the burgers and shakes
Related: The most Instagrammable Places in Boston
13. South End Buttery
In one of my absolute favorite neighborhoods in Boston, the South End Buttery is located in none other than the South End. It’s a cute cafe where you can either grab a quick bite or have a long leisurely meal.
You’ll choose from sandwiches, salads, pastries, and more. There’s not a lot of seating here so it’s another place that I highly recommend making a reservation if you can before you go. It’s a great spot with awesome food and other treats, and it’s a neighborhood staple.
Must try: Eggs benedict, pastries
14. Neptune Oyster
Another well-known spot in the North End neighborhood of Boston, Neptune Oyster offers some delicious and fresh seafood. The lobster roll is a must-try and the raw bar is also a good option.
There’s generally a line here so you’ll want to make a reservation or just know that you’ll be waiting for a little bit. But let me tell you, the food is absolutely worth it!
Must try: Oysters, lobster roll, clam chowder, cannoli’s
15. Giacomo’s
Another North End spot makes the must-eat list in Boston! This spot is a favorite among locals and tourists. The menu features classic Italian dishes like spaghetti and meatballs but there’s also a large selection of seafood to choose from. Try their calamari and the red sauce!
Just note that this is another spot where you should expect somewhat of a wait since it’s so popular, but once you’re eating it’ll all be worth it. It’s an absolute must-visit but is cash only so make sure you have cash beforehand!
Must try: Calamari, pumpkin tortellini, ravioli
Final Thoughts – Must Eat Places in Boston
Boston is a city with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for iconic seafood spots or trendy new restaurants, there’s sure to be something that will tempt your taste buds. And if you need a break from all the eating, there are also plenty of shops and activities to keep you busy.
So be sure to add these places to your can’t miss list when you’re visiting Boston and get out there and start exploring all that the city has to offer!
Do you have a spot for where to eat in Boston that you’d recommend? Did you try any of these and fall in love?
