If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Boston, you’ve come to the right place. As Bostonians, we take our food seriously, and we know that the city is home to some of the best dining experiences in the world. From classic New England seafood to innovative fusion cuisine, Boston has it all. You’ll even find the nation’s oldest continuously operating restaurant (ye Olde Union Oyster House) right here in Boston!
We’ve scoured the city to bring you our top picks for the best Boston restaurants. We’ve included a range of options to suit all tastes and budgets, from high-end fine dining to casual neighborhood spots. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor to the city, we’re confident that you’ll find something to love on our list. Need a specific recommendation? Leave a comment and we’ll let you know where to go!
Because of Boston’s variable weather, outdoor dining isn’t always an option. If you have your heart set on outdoor dining, be sure to call ahead of time and find out if that is a possibility!
Top Fine Dining Restaurants
When it comes to fine dining in Boston, there are some really swanky spots. Here are some of our top picks for the best fine dining restaurants in the city:
Menton
Menton, located in the Seaport District, is one of the priciest restaurants in Barbara Lynch’s collection. However, the contemporary French- and Italian-inspired cuisine is worth the splurge. The menu changes frequently, but you can expect dishes such as foie gras torchon, lobster bisque, and dry-aged beef. The wine list is extensive, and the service is impeccable.
Oleana
Oleana, located in Cambridge, is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that has been a staple in the Boston dining scene for over 20 years. The menu features dishes such as lamb shank, grilled octopus, and roasted eggplant. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a beautiful outdoor patio. Oleana is a personal favorite!
Craigie on Main
Craigie on Main, located in Cambridge just outside of Harvard Square, is known for its farm-to-table cuisine. The menu changes frequently, but you can expect dishes such as roasted bone marrow, foie gras terrine, and whole roasted chicken. The restaurant also has an impressive cocktail program and a great beer and wine selection.
No. 9 Park
No. 9 Park, located in Beacon Hill, is a French and Italian-inspired restaurant that has been a Boston favorite for over 20 years. The menu features dishes such as seared foie gras, roasted duck breast, and lobster risotto. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a great cocktail program.
L’Espalier
L’Espalier, located in Back Bay, is a French-inspired restaurant that has been a Boston institution for over 40 years. The menu features dishes such as seared foie gras, roasted duck breast, and lobster risotto. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a great cocktail program.
These are just a few of our top picks for the best fine dining restaurants in Boston. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a memorable dining experience, these restaurants are sure to impress.
Top Casual Dining Restaurants
When we’re looking for a casual dining experience that doesn’t sacrifice on quality, these are the restaurants we turn to in Boston. Many are kid-friendly, which is a bonus.
Ronsky’s
Ronsky’s is a Santoni shoebox-size, Italian-inspired café that has quickly become a permanent fixture at upscale shopping mall, The Street, in Chestnut Hill. With its cozy and intimate atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends. We love their fresh-made pasta dishes, especially the spaghetti carbonara, and their delicious paninis.
The Friendly Toast
The Friendly Toast is a quirky and fun restaurant located in Cambridge (with a suburban location in Burlington, too) that serves up delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The restaurant has a retro vibe, with funky decor and colorful booths. We recommend trying their breakfast dishes, like the “Sticky Bun Pancakes” or the “Green Eggs and Ham” omelette. For lunch or dinner, their burgers and sandwiches are always a hit. The Friendly Toast is definitely a kid-friendly establishment, so bring the little ones!
Tasty Burger
Tasty Burger is a Boston classic, with multiple locations throughout the city. We love the spot right near Fenway. Their burgers are juicy, flavorful, and always hit the spot. We also love their crispy fries, onion rings, and milkshakes. It’s the perfect spot for a quick and casual meal with friends or family.
Anna’s Taqueria
Anna’s Taqueria is a beloved Boston institution, with multiple locations throughout the city. Their burritos are huge and packed with flavor, and their tacos are always a hit. We love that you can customize your order with a variety of toppings and sauces. It’s a great spot for a quick and casual Mexican meal.
Mei Mei
Mei Mei is a Chinese-American restaurant located in Boston’s Fenway neighborhood. Their menu features creative and delicious dishes, like their famous “Double Awesome” scallion pancake sandwich. We also love their dumplings and noodle dishes. The restaurant has a casual and cozy atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends.
Do you have a favorite Boston restaurant that we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Leave a Reply