Boston, renowned for its rich history, also offers a culinary landscape as intriguing as its heritage. With a mix of traditional New England flavors and contemporary twists, this city is a paradise for food lovers. I spent several days exploring local restaurants to find the hidden gems and classics that every visitor should try. Here’s a personal take on five must-visit Boston restaurants, from their signature dishes to my dining experiences.
1. Union Oyster House
- Location: 41 Union Street, Boston, MA
- Specialty Dish: Freshly Shucked Oysters, New England Clam Chowder
- Price Range: $20 – $50 per person
The Union Oyster House is an essential visit not just for the food but for the entire experience of stepping back into Boston’s history. This restaurant’s ambiance is rustic and charming, with narrow, dimly lit passageways, wooden booths, and even a bar where JFK himself used to sit. The vibe here is both cozy and historic, and every corner tells a story of Boston’s past.
My Experience: I visited during the lunch hour and started with their signature New England Clam Chowder ($10). The broth was incredibly creamy and flavorful, with a generous helping of clams that melted in my mouth. I also sampled their Oysters Rockefeller ($24), a baked oyster dish topped with spinach, breadcrumbs, and melted cheese. This dish was decadent and had a rich, satisfying depth of flavor.
In addition, the Scrod Dinner ($26)—a classic Boston seafood dish of white fish lightly breaded and broiled—was cooked to perfection, with flaky fish that paired well with the buttery breadcrumbs.
Tip: Union Oyster House offers an excellent selection of seafood, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends. Consider booking a table on weekdays for a more relaxed experience, or come right when they open to avoid waiting. Be sure to explore the restaurant’s walls, which are covered in photos and memorabilia of Boston’s history.
2. Neptune Oyster
- Location: 63 Salem Street, Boston, MA
- Specialty Dish: Hot Buttered Lobster Roll
- Price Range: $30 – $70 per person
Located in the heart of the North End, Neptune Oyster is a small but legendary spot with a warm, inviting ambiance. The dark wood bar and intimate space give it an upscale feel, even though it’s relatively casual. The focus here is on freshness, and you can expect every seafood dish to taste like it was just pulled from the ocean.
My Experience: I ordered the famous Hot Buttered Lobster Roll ($38), served on a toasted brioche bun that was both crisp and pillowy. Each bite was bursting with buttery richness, balanced with just a hint of sweetness from the lobster. To add some variety, I also tried the Ethel’s Creamy Crab Dip ($16), a decadent, warm appetizer that came with crusty bread for dipping. It was perfectly seasoned and ideal for sharing.
Neptune also offers an impressive raw bar selection, including Little Neck Clams ($12 for half a dozen) and Bay Scallops ($14), both of which were incredibly fresh and paired well with a splash of lemon.
Tip: Neptune Oyster doesn’t take reservations, so aim to arrive early. The wait can be over an hour during peak times, but you can leave your number with the hostess and stroll around the North End while you wait. Also, try the Hamachi Crudo ($18) for a unique flavor—fresh, with a tangy, citrusy kick that’s refreshing after a rich lobster roll.
3. The Daily Catch
- Location: 323 Hanover Street, Boston, MA
- Specialty Dish: Squid Ink Pasta, Lobster Fra Diavolo
- Price Range: $25 – $60 per person
Nestled in Boston’s North End, The Daily Catch is a small, unassuming restaurant that focuses on Sicilian-style seafood with a twist. The decor is no-frills, but this adds to the charm. Here, the chefs cook your meal right in front of you, and the aromas of garlic, seafood, and herbs fill the air.
My Experience: The Squid Ink Pasta ($26) is served in the same pan it’s cooked in, which brings a rustic, comforting touch. This dish has a rich, briny flavor that perfectly complements the slightly chewy, al dente pasta. I also tried the Lobster Fra Diavolo ($42), a spicy tomato-based pasta with tender pieces of lobster that was robust and full of character. The pasta-to-sauce ratio was perfect, and each bite was bursting with flavor.
In addition, I sampled the Fried Calamari ($14), a classic Sicilian appetizer, and it was delightfully crisp and served with a tangy marinara sauce.
Tip: The Daily Catch is cash-only and doesn’t take reservations, so plan accordingly. Also, keep in mind that the restaurant is quite small, so it’s best for groups of two to four people. For a lighter option, try their Vongole Clams ($18), which are cooked with garlic, olive oil, and a hint of red pepper for a spicy kick.
4. Regina Pizzeria
- Location: 11 1/2 Thacher Street, Boston, MA
- Specialty Dish: Margherita Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza
- Price Range: $15 – $30 per person
Regina Pizzeria is a Boston icon, known for its brick-oven pizza and no-nonsense vibe. The walls are decorated with photos of famous visitors, and the red-and-white checkered tablecloths create a warm, homey feel.
My Experience: I opted for the Margherita Pizza ($17), and it was divine. The crust was thin and crispy, yet chewy enough to hold up to the rich, tangy tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella. The basil was aromatic and added a touch of brightness. I also tried the Pepperoni Pizza ($18), and the pepperoni was perfectly spicy, providing just the right amount of grease for that classic pizza experience.
The cheese pull on each slice was remarkable, and the flavors were balanced to perfection. I could taste the quality of the ingredients, especially the tomatoes and basil, which were fresh and flavorful.
Tip: Regina Pizzeria doesn’t take reservations, and the original location is cash-only. Try to arrive early to snag a table. If you’re a garlic fan, order the Garlic Pizza ($17) for an added burst of flavor. You can also request extra sauce, as the tomato base here is particularly delicious.
5. Mamma Maria
- Location: 3 North Square, Boston, MA
- Specialty Dish: Osso Buco, Lobster Agnolotti
- Price Range: $40 – $80 per person
Situated in the heart of the North End, Mamma Maria is an elegant Italian restaurant with a cozy yet upscale ambiance. The townhouse setting is intimate, with small dining rooms that feel private and special. The lighting is warm, and the decor is classic, with a touch of old-world charm that makes you feel like you’re dining in Italy.
My Experience: I indulged in the Lobster Agnolotti ($45), which was served in a creamy, fragrant sauce that perfectly complemented the sweetness of the lobster. The pasta was handmade and beautifully delicate. The Osso Buco ($55), a braised veal shank served with risotto, was tender and packed with flavor. The meat fell right off the bone, and the risotto soaked up the rich, savory sauce for an unforgettable bite.
For dessert, I tried the Tiramisu ($12), which was light, airy, and had just the right amount of coffee flavor. It was the perfect ending to a fantastic meal.
Tip: Mamma Maria is ideal for a special occasion. The wine list is extensive, and the sommelier can recommend pairings that match each dish perfectly. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dinners. The Gnocchi with Duck Ragu ($30) is another standout dish that you might want to try if you’re looking for something unique and flavorful.
Extra Dining Tips for Boston
- Street Parking & Public Transit: Parking in Boston can be tricky, especially near popular dining spots in the North End. Consider using the T (Boston’s subway system) or ride-sharing services to avoid the hassle of finding a spot.
- Timing Matters: Weekday afternoons are usually less crowded at popular spots. For seafood restaurants, I suggest going on Mondays or Tuesdays when the freshest supplies are typically available.
- Allergies & Preferences: Many Boston restaurants are accommodating of dietary restrictions. Don’t hesitate to ask about gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian options.
Each of these restaurants captures a different aspect of Boston’s food scene, from iconic New England seafood to Italian-inspired pasta. Dining in Boston is a journey, and these establishments each offer a memorable stop along the way. Enjoy the flavors, and savor every bite!
- Reservation Apps: Most of the restaurants in Boston’s popular neighborhoods use platforms like OpenTable and Resy. Checking availability or booking through these apps is highly recommended, especially for dinner.
- Cash Only Spots: Some historic spots, like Regina Pizzeria, are cash-only, so it’s wise to carry cash if you’re exploring older, iconic spots.
- Best Time to Visit: Many popular restaurants in Boston don’t take reservations, so visiting early for lunch or dinner (around 5 p.m.) can help avoid long lines.
- Seafood Freshness: Boston’s seafood is typically very fresh, but to ensure the best quality, visit seafood restaurants earlier in the week when the supply is replenished.
Boston’s food scene has something for every palate, whether you’re craving hearty Italian, fresh New England seafood, or classic American comfort food. Each of these restaurants has a unique vibe and exceptional dishes that showcase the city’s culinary diversity. Be sure to explore a few during your stay, and enjoy a true taste of Boston!