Although Boston is known for Baked Beans and New England Clam Chowder, the city has so many diverse modern restaurants that make any fan of food want to come and try. Boston ranks in the middle of the pack for hot spot cities offering people to experience the food culture. Most of the time, those who come to Boston have a specific cuisine in mind: seafood. However, with many Pubs, Gastropubs, Italian restaurants, Modern American restaurants, there’s a variety of options to try in the most elegant settings. There are many fantastic restaurants in and around the city, but check out my recommendations below to give you some of my top ones. These restaurants should be on your list when visiting the historical city of Boston. For more information on the things to do in and around the town for a quick weekend, check out my Guide to Visiting Boston blog.
Moo Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for a great steakhouse, look no further. Although a bit on the noisy side, this place has a great ambiance to dine in. A low-lit romantic setting creates the perfect evening out, whether for a special occasion or just a night out on the town. The steaks are elevated by plating with a piece of bone marrow on top with garlic butter in the middle of the bone to melt over the steak.
Location: Downtown Boston, MA
Website: https://mooorestaurant.com/
Deuxave
An American and French restaurant is just a short Uber drive from the Boston Commons area. The ambiance is low-lit, making for a beautiful setting for an intimate dinner. The dress code is business casual to elegant evening attire. I highly suggest for the first course to try the duck confit. The cook of the duck was complete perfection, along with the Beef Tartare and Wagyu Carpaccio. For the second course, order the Spiced Long Island Duck if you want to keep with the duck theme. If you’re going to try something different, request the Tagliatelle “Bolognese.” I highly suggest finishing the dinner off with a Raspberry Crème brûlée . The Crème brûlée has a side of raspberry ice cream that was incredible! I highly recommend making reservations when you’re visiting the Boston area.
Location: Back Bay Boston, MA
Website: https://www.deuxave.com/
Toscano’s
Toscano’s has a restaurant in two locations; one is over in Beacon Hill, and the second is at Harvard Square. The beautiful Italian-American restaurant offers delicious steaks and Italian dishes that your whole party will enjoy. The ambiance gives you that romantic rustic Italian feel with the cobblestones as the decor.
Location: Beacon Hill & Cambridge Boston, MA
Website: https://www.toscanoboston.com/
Friendly Toast
Friendly Toast is a hip and retro vibe breakfast spot that is a quick walk from the Orange “T” line. I highly suggest calling ahead and putting your name on a list; the waits can be lengthy.
When visiting, I waited about 1hr and 30 minutes to get in, so the waitstaff took down my number instead of just standing there, giving me time to take a short walk.
Friendly Toast is known for its excellent selection of mimosas and hearty breakfasts. At the time, if you order the pancakes, you would receive a little bottle of maple syrup to use and take with you for the road.
Location: Back Bay Boston, MA
Website: https://thefriendlytoast.com/
The Bell in Hand Tavern
is America’s oldest tavern, and their first pour was in 1795! A place to stop and have a beer and New England Clam Chowder. In the daytime, you will find many tourists walking around the various points of interest, and at night, it turns into a nighttime venue for dancing and music.
Location: Downtown Boston, MA
Website: https://thebellinhand.com/
The Green Dragon Tavern
This Irish bar is packed full of history as being the meeting house where the Boston Tea party was planned along, with Paul Revere being sent there on his famous ride. This pub offers a wide selection of beers and sandwiches. Check out this place if you’re looking for energy, Irish music, and great sandwiches!
Location: Downtown Boston, MA
Website: https://www.greendragonboston.com/
Euno
Euno is a romantic Italian restaurant located in the North End area. They had various creative pizza options to choose from and authentic Italian cuisine. The staff was amicable and welcoming. Euno is an ideal spot to hit when walking around the North Side visiting the Old Town of Boston. Euno is open Thursday- Sunday during the winter season.
Location: North End Boston, MA
Website: https://www.eunorestaurant.com/
Omni Parker Hotel
Although we have stayed at this hotel three times, my husband and I have never eaten at the house restaurant. However, it always smells fantastic and is definitely on my list for trying when I visit again. Venture into their cafe/bakery, and trust me when I say this and order one Boston Cream pie for right then and there and one for the road. It will be the best decision you make when visiting. I cannot say enough of this spongy cake goodness. The Boston Cream Pie is definitely a must-try when traveling to Boston, especially since the Omni Parker House is where the Boston Cream Pie originated.
Location: Downtown Boston, MA
Website: Omni Parker House
