39 Best Restaurants in Boston, MA in 2024

Looking for awe-inspiring restaurants in Boston to celebrate a special occasion? Or perhaps you're just scouring for a relaxed spot to have a casual meal? Either way, this eclectic port city on the East Coast has a storied history spanning hundreds of years back to the American Revolution. Get ready to visit historical taverns once frequented by the founding fathers or get a taste of trendy vegan tacos on your next date night.

Ready to discover top-rated restaurants in Boston? This guide has it all — from award-winning restaurants in Boston, including traditional Italian bakeries in the historic North End, to artisan bagel shops. Dive in and find your new favorite eatery.

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• Discover the Best Boston Restaurants
• The 39 Best Places To Eat in Boston, MA

Discover the Best Boston Restaurants

Boston is a vast city full of amazing restaurants to try within walking distance. The best way to discover the hidden gems is through expertly guided food tours in Boston. Such a unique experience will lead you on an immersive tour of the city, giving you an inside look at the best eateries of all kinds. 

If you are looking for one-of-a-kind date ideas in Boston then a food tour is sure to impress. Make new memories while exploring the city with your partner by your side. Discover popular local taverns, ritzy fine-dining establishments and everything in between with a fun, educational experience.

The 39 Best Places To Eat in Boston, MA

1. Bagelsaurus 

Snag one of the best bagels in Boston at Bagelsaurus. This modern bagel shop and restaurant in Boston is a locally owned shop that specializes in hand-made, slow-fermented bagels made from scratch using a decades-old sourdough starter. 

The Vibe

This cute and casual bagel shop is only open from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., or until sold out. Make sure to order online or visit early to ensure you get your favorite bagel. 

What to Order

Order the savory everything bagel or the sweet cinnamon raisin bagel topped with your favorite housemade cream cheese schmear. 

Bagelsaurus | 1796 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140 | $

2. The Painted Burro

Spice up your normal brunch routine with a trip to The Painted Burro. This Mexican eatery is popular for its bottomless brunch available only on the weekends. The vast tequila selection and gourmet Mexican cuisine make The Painted Burro a brunch spot you don’t want to miss.

The Vibe

This restaurant in Boston is fun and casual with brightly painted interiors and welcoming service. 

What to Order

Order the house special Burro Benedict featuring poached eggs and ham on top of English muffins, drizzled with hollandaise.

The Painted Burro | Multiple Locations | $$

3. Puritan & Company

Explore a modern American brunch with New England influences at Puritan & Company. This upscale restaurant in Boston only serves brunch on Sundays so be sure to make a reservation. 

The Vibe

This chic brunch spot offers classic breakfast dishes, a full bar and a clean, modern interior.

What to Order

Savor the decadent brown butter pancakes topped with lemon ricotta, fresh Maine blueberries and salted honey butter. If you aren't in the mood for something sweet, order one of the seafood or meat-based main dishes.

Puritan & Company | 1166 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA 02139 | $$$

4. State Park

A restaurant disguised as a bar, State Park has a unique summer camp-themed vibe. This restaurant in Boston serves elevated bar food made with creativity and passion. Stop by for a boozy brunch or a juicy burger sure to help you recover from a rough night. 

The Vibe

This restaurant in Boston has a vintage dive bar feel with flickering neon signs, welcoming staff and a killer cocktail menu.

What to Order

Try the hearty Wolfman of Del Rio breakfast taco stuffed with smoked brisket, beans, scrambled eggs and cheddar. Don’t forget a side of thick-cut home fries and a gluten-free coffee cake for dessert.

State Park | 1 Kendall Sq., Lower Level Cambridge, MA 02139 | $$

5. Chung Shin Yuan

Dip into a delightful dim sum breakfast at Chung Shin Yuan. This Taiwanese restaurant in Boston serves a full Taiwan-style brunch every weekend, complete with dim sum, sweet soybean milk and Chinese fried dough.

The Vibe

This inviting, casual restaurant in Boston has Asian-inspired décor and a welcoming and friendly staff. 

What to Order

Order the popular pork rolls, crispy spring onion pancakes or the sweet and jiggly tofu jello in sugar syrup.

Chung Shin Yuan | 183 California St., Newton, MA 02458 | $$

6. Buttermilk & Bourbon

Experience classic Southern comfort food in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay at Buttermilk & Bourbon. This Louisiana-style restaurant in Boston is known for its flavorful dishes and beautiful dining space.

The Vibe

Buttermilk and Bourbon has it all with a full-service forty-seat bar, a spacious outdoor patio and an interactive oyster bar, all designed with Louisiana’s bayou-chic style in mind. 

What to Order

Melt into this restaurant in Boston's house signature dish — warm honey-glazed biscuits smeared with pimento, cheese and smoked cinnamon butter.

Buttermilk & Bourbon | 160 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02116 | $

7. Giulia

This chef-owned restaurant in Boston is known for its elevated Italian fare and comforting upscale atmosphere. Embark on an authentic culinary journey at Giulia. 

The Vibe

Giulia is a white-linen establishment with impeccable service and a gourmet menu. Reservations are highly encouraged for this special occasion restaurant in Boston.

What to Order

Try the premium longest scre’s beef butcher’s cut served with corn polenta, pepper crema, agretti, kale and smokey onions. The variety of salads on the menu are also worth tucking into.

Giulia | 1682 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138 | $$$

8. Fox & the Knife

Experience a vibrant Italian enoteca in the heart of Boston at Fox & the Knife. This restaurant in Boston is highly sought-after for its creative Italian cuisine and upscale atmosphere. 

The Vibe

This trendy eatery features dark moody interiors, making it one of the most romantic restaurants in Boston. Walk-ins can grab a seat at the bar, but dinner reservations are encouraged.

What to Order

Order the spaghetti con vongole featuring saffron spiced pasta with clams and hearty tomato butter. 

Fox & the Knife | 28 W. Broadway, Boston, MA 02127 | $$$

9. Amar

Indulge in Portuguese flair with Bostonian sensibilities at Amar. Overlooking the Charles River, this modern Portuguese eatery is one of the best restaurants in Boston. 

The Vibe

Located in the Raffles Hotel, this upscale restaurant in Boston is known for its delicate interiors and fresh seafood selection. 

What to Order

Try the ocean five-course tasting menu filled with fresh dishes hand-selected by the chef. 

Amar | 40 Trinity Pl., Boston, MA 02116 | $$$

10. O Ya

Contemporary Japanese omakase dining is waiting for you at O Ya. Inspired by the fresh flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine, this eatery has made a name for itself as one of the best restaurants in Boston for sushi. 

The Vibe

This sleek and sexy restaurant in Boston has exclusive dinner hours by reservation only. O Ya is one of the more expensive restaurants in Boston, but the price is well worth the memorable experience.

What to Order

Nightly omakase is prepared every day with over 20 astounding courses crafted from the freshest ingredients. Splurge on the drink pairing for a truly decadent dining experience.

O Ya | 9 E St., Boston, MA 02111 | $$$$

11. Bar Mezzana

Dip into refreshing coastal Italian cuisine at Bar Mezzana. This classy restaurant in Boston is renowned for its award-winning crudo menu, handcrafted Aperol spritz and inviting hospitality.

The Vibe

Located in the South End’s Ink Block neighborhood, this restaurant in Boston offers chic upscale dining with a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.

What to Order

Try the lobster paccheri with a fresh quarter-pound de-shelled lobster, rich lobster crema, green onions and tomato. The selection of burgers and pastas are also worth scouring to see what appeals to you.

Bar Mezzana | 360 Harrison Ave., Boston, MA 02118 | $$$

12. Bistro du Midi

Dine at a classic French Bistro with a stunning view at Bistro du Midi. This restaurant in Boston is located on the Back Bay with a picturesque view overlooking the Public Gardens. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients contribute heavily to the gourmet menu.

The Vibe

Bistro du Midi is two restaurants in one. Enjoy the lively street-level bistro with a full bar and outdoor dining, or make your occasion more formal and visit the upstairs dining room for a sophisticated dinner.

What to Order

Savor the halibut entrée served with Manila clams, parsnip, rainbow chard, sea beans and a smoked clam velouté. 

Bistro du Midi | 272 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02116 | $$$

13. UNI

The award-winning UNI is a premier sushi restaurant in Boston known for its lavish tasting menus and Edomae-style omakase at the sushi counter.

The Vibe

This popular dinner destination is known for its intriguing Asian-inspired décor and upscale service.

What to Order

Try the delicate West Coast uni spoon topped with osetra caviar, quail egg yolk and a spritz of yuzu. If you are up for a sushi adventure, try the daily tasting menu packed with fresh Japanese cuisine.

UNI | 370 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215 | $$$$

14. Taquería Jalisco

Experience the best Mexican restaurant in Boston at Taquería Jalisco. This modest taquería is a local phenomenon that started as a food truck and blossomed into a popular storefront known for its birria tacos. 

The Vibe

This restaurant in Boston is a modest mom-and-pop shop serving big flavors out of a little store. 

What to Order

Try the tacos that started it all — the beef birria tacos served with fresh cilantro, onions and zesty consommé for dipping. 

Taquería Jalisco | 291 Bennington St., Boston, MA 02128 | $

15. Si Cara

Indulge in fresh pizza, tapas and casual late-night dining at Si Cara. This popular pizza joint is open for lunch, dinner and late-night snacks with a gourmet menu and a full bar.

The Vibe

Si Cara is a friendly neighborhood hang-out spot with killer pizza and a crisp, modern interior. 

What to Order

This restaurant in Boston has mastered the art of pizza. Check out the canotto-style Margherita pizza with fresh basil, crushed tomato and fior di latte.

Si Cara | 425 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02139 | $$

16. Shojo 

Located in the city's historic Chinatown, Shojo is a restaurant in Boston that combines low prices and top-notch quality for an unforgettable experience.

The Vibe

This unique eatery offers bright and quirky interior accents with an exciting menu and a creative cocktail bar. 

What to Order

Spice it up with the Sichuan pepper ribeye bao buns with fried onions and green chile peanut sauce. 

Shojo | Multiple Locations | $$

17. Toro

Spanish-style tapas are just the start of what you can look forward to at Toro. This glitzy wine bar and tapas restaurant in Boston is a friendly spot to grab a drink and snack with work colleagues or chat up a cute date over cocktails.

The Vibe

A casual restaurant in Boston with a spacious outdoor dining area and friendly service.

What to Order

Enjoy a Spanish take on the famous East Coast crab cakes with the cangrejo. This dish features crab cakes with spicy kimchi cream cheese, Santa Rosa plum sauce and vibrant purple basil.

Toro | 1704 Washington St., Boston, MA 02118 | $$$

18. Sugidama 

Nourish your soul with handmade yakisoba from Sugidama. This restaurant in Boston offers a selection of fresh sushi, homemade noodle dishes and imported sake. 

The Vibe

Open for lunch and dinner, this popular restaurant in Boston offers an inviting minimalist interior with a casual atmosphere. 

What to Order

Enjoy this restaurant in Boston's house specialty maki — the spicy crispy mango tuna roll with spicy tuna, cucumber, mango, crunch roe and mango sauce.

Sugidama | 234 Elm St., Somerville, MA 02144 | $$

19. Saloniki Greek

The best Greek cuisine in Boston can be found at Saloniki Greek. This authentic Greek restaurant in Boston has an award-winning menu featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The Vibe

This casual Mediterranean restaurant in Boston has a clean and inviting interior featuring natural wood décor and comfortable seating.

What to Order

Try the handheld spicy lamb meatball pita sandwich with charred eggplant, creamy garlic yogurt and secret sauce. 

Saloniki Greek | Multiple Locations | $$

20. James Hook & Co.

Known for its generous portions and fresh seafood, James Hook & Co. has been bringing fresh lobster to Boston residents since 1925. This restaurant in Boston has popular lobster rolls and lobster mac and cheese on its gourmet menu.

The Vibe

This casual eatery has an intimate indoor seating area with outdoor tables available for al fresco dining. 

What to Order

Order the famous large lobster roll with butter, with a side of double-stuffed scallops, followed by a homemade whoopie pie for dessert. 

James Hook & Co. | ​​440 Atlantic Ave., Boston, MA 02110 | $$$

21. Tres Gatos

Spice up your weekly date night with a trip to Tres Gatos, Boston’s first wine bar and book and record store. This lively bar and tapas restaurant in Boston is a local staple serving authentic Spanish fare.

The Vibe

Tres Gatos is a trendy Spanish eatery serving flavorful plates with outdoor seating and a creative cocktail menu. This bookstore and record shop turned eatery offers an interactive dining experience with live music.

What to Order

Order the earthy mushrooms a la plancha with roasted poblano crema, fried sunchokes and a farm-fresh egg yolk. The selection of desserts promise to also hit the spot.

Tres Gatos | 470 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 | $$$

22. Comfort Kitchen

A cozy diner during the day and a casual service eatery for dinner service, Comfort Kitchen offers it all. This restaurant in Boston is proudly black-owned, immigrant-owned and women-owned, and specializes in hearty Caribbean comfort food with global influences. 

The Vibe

This award-winning restaurant in Boston has picturesque interiors with clean white décor and an inviting aura. 

What to Order

Savor the jerk roasted duck with peas, pikliz and fragrant parsley oil. 

Comfort Kitchen | 611 Columbia Road, Dorchester, MA 02125 | $$

23. Singh’s Roti Shop

Check out the spiciest restaurant in Boston when visiting Singh’s Roti Shop. This popular roti shop offers Indian-Carribean fare sure to leave your lips tingling with delightful spice.

The Vibe

A casual restaurant in Boston known for its hearty plates sold for reasonable prices.

What to Order

Order the classic goat roti dinner with slow-roasted goat, rice and beans, fresh roti and your choice of sides. 

Singh’s Roti Shop | 554 Columbia Road, Dorchester, MA 02125 | $

24. Ba Le

In the mood for authentic French-inspired Vietnamese cuisine? Take a flavorful trip through Vietnam’s culinary past with traditional Vietnamese dishes, fresh baked French loaves and unique global desserts at Ba Le.

The Vibe

A cute sandwich shop with quick service and cheap prices for high-quality fare.

What to Order

Order the bánh mì chбєЈ lụa with pork bologna served with homemade mayo, fish sauce, scallion oil, cucumber, pickled daikon, carrots, cilantro, pâté and soy sauce.

Ba Le | Multiple Locations | $

25. Rubato

Inspired by traditional Hong Kong cafés, Rubato is a restaurant in Boston that offers Chinese classics such as congee and house-milled soy milk, as well as fusion dishes with an American twist. 

The Vibe

This quick-service café offers delicious dishes with a casual yet warm atmosphere characterized by soothing natural greens and modern décor.

What to Order

Stick to tradition at this restaurant in Boston with the classic pork and century egg congee, or branch out and try the Nutella-stuffed French toast. 

Rubato | 412 Hancock St., Quincy, MA 02171 | $$

26. Moona

A cozy restaurant in Boston named after the Arabic slang word meaning "pantry," Moona is an Arabic-inspired casual restaurant serving divine tapas-like plates of seasonal cuisine.

The Vibe

Characterized by a Mediterranean color palette of coastal blues and sea greens, the dining space at Moona is intimate with only 30 seats available. Rustic accents and a welcoming staff make this casual dining spot unforgettable.

What to Order

Indulge in the decadent date and molasses steak tips with pickles, onions and eggplants. Peruse the intriguing drinks menu and try a unique Mediterrean-inspired cocktail such as the korkom and carrot with lunazul tequila, carrot, orange, saffron and smoked paprika for a smokey and warm beverage.

Moona | 243 Hampshire St., Cambridge, MA 02139 | $$

27. Taco Party

Head to Taco Party for the best zesty vegan tacos in town. This restaurant in Boston is known for its flavorful take on plant-based tacos.

The Vibe

This casual restaurant in Boston is cozy and inviting with modern retro décor. Enjoy fast counter service and exciting meat-free Mexican fare.

What to Order

Try the hearty jackfruit al pastor taco with lime, cilantro, grilled onion, pineapple and almond cotija cheese. 

Taco Party | 711 Broadway, Somerville, MA 02144 | $

28. Koshari Mama

Dive into the flavorful world of plant-based Egyptian cuisine at Koshari Mama. Indulge in bold vegan Egyptian street food such as the hearty Koshari bowls. 

The Vibe

A laidback eatery with friendly staff and budget-friendly meals.

What to Order

Order the popular Koshari bowl that can be tailored to each guest's preferences. The bulk of this dish is made up of rice, lentils, pasta, deep-fried onions and chickpeas, and then topped with a sauce of your choice. 

Koshari Mama | 585 Somerville Ave., Somerville, MA 02143 | $$

29. Red Lentil

Few spots offer better vegan and vegetarian cuisine with a global twist than Red Lentil. This award-winning plant-based restaurant in Boston offers upscale fare for brunch, lunch and dinner.

The Vibe

Red Lentil is a casual, upscale restaurant in Boston with soothing natural décor and prompt service.

What to Order

Savor the comforting shepherd's pie made from layers of mashed potatoes, soy sausage, corn kernels, onion and seasonal vegetables drizzled with vegan cashew gravy, maple balsamic and cilantro sunflower pesto. For dessert, don’t miss the vegan desserts baked fresh in-house at this restaurant in Boston. 

Red Lentil | 600 Mt Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472 | $$

30. Veggie Galaxy

When stepping into Veggie Galaxy, you'll think you've fallen into a vegetarian, retro diner fever dream. This unique restaurant in Boston was featured on Food Network’s "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" and is a local vegetarian phenomenon. 

The Vibe

This eatery serves vegetarian and vegan dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week, and has a vegan bakery onsite for sweet treats. The vintage retro design and quirky atmosphere make this restaurant in Boston an experience you won't want to miss. 

What to Order

Few restaurants in Boston offer a creamy loaded mac and cheese like this one does — topped with caramelized onion, chopped seitan, tomato, broccoli and peas sprinkled with a herbed panko crust. 

Veggie Galaxy | 450 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02139 | $$

31. Madras Dosa Co.

Taste the best Dosa in Boston at Madras Dosa Co. Inspired by the home-cooked Indian meals prepared by their mothers during childhood, the founders of this eatery set out to share the warmth of Indian comfort food with everyone. This authentic Indian restaurant in Boston has many vegetarian options and flavorful budget-friendly meals. 

The Vibe

Madras Dosa Co. has vibrantly painted interiors featuring bold Indian-inspired décor and a lively open kitchen. 

What to Order

Order the dosa stuffed with spicy potatoes with a scratch-made vegetarian samosa on the side. Explore the authentic drinks menu with refreshing Indian classics such as mango lassi, Desi hot chocolate and nariyal pani. 

Madras Dosa Co. | Multiple Locations  | $$

32. REDWHITE BONELESS RAMEN

Don’t let the frigid Boston winters get you down; sip on comforting boneless ramen broth at REDWHITE BONELESS RAMEN. This vegan ramen bar specializes in traditional Japanese ramen packed with flavor. 

The Vibe

The dark and broody aesthetic of this restaurant in Boston makes it a thrilling place to enjoy a steaming bowl of authentic ramen. Reservations are not accepted at the Boston location.

What to Order

Indulge in the truffle salt ramen with soboro, crispy onion, corn, garlic oil, ginger and organic arugula topped with truffle oil and sesame seeds. 

REDWHITE BONELESS RAMEN | Multiple Locations | $$

33. Blue Nile

If you're in the mood for elevated Ethiopian fare, Blue Nile is the place to be. This restaurant in Boston has a wide selection of flavorful vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

The Vibe

Upscale African-inspired décor and impeccable service make this dinner-only restaurant in Boston an elegant establishment, perfect for a low-key evening meal.

What to Order

Try the vibrant veggie firfir with chopped injera, tomatoes, onions, garlic and bergere. 

Blue Nile | 389 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA 02130 | $$ 

34. Warren Tavern 

Stop by Warren Tavern, the oldest tavern in Massachusetts that's been visited by many famous Americans, including George Washington and Paul Revere. This restaurant in Boston was founded in 1780 and is a popular destination for travelers and locals.

The Vibe

The air of historic New England charm makes this restaurant in Boston a must-visit for history buffs. 

What to Order

Order the fried whole belly clams served with lemon butter, tartar sauce and fries.

Warren Tavern | 2 Pleasant St., Charlestown, MA 02129 | $$

35. Santarpio’s Pizza

Having served its famous Boston-style pizza since 1930, Santarpio’s Pizza is a beloved staple in the Boston food scene. This family-owned restaurant in Boston is known for its hand-stretched dough and old-fashioned techniques.

The Vibe

This no-frills pizza joint is the perfect place to grab a slice with friends, family or colleagues. 

What to Order

Try the classic Italian cheese pizza with extra cheese, or the house favorite shrimp scampi pizza with garlic and white sauce.

Santarpio’s Pizza | Multiple Locations | $$

36. Bova’s Bakery 

History and delicious foods marry for the ideal combination at Bova’s Bakery. Operating since 1926, this family-owned bakery in Boston makes every item from scratch using the freshest ingredients. 

The Vibe

This quaint bake shop is open 24 hours a day, making it the perfect place to eat in Boston whenever hunger strikes. The quick service and authentic tastes keep customers returning year after year.

What to Order

Don’t miss out on the famous Sicilian cannolis or the award-winning tiramisu. 

Bova’s Bakery | 134 Salem St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$

37. Caffè Vittoria 

This list wouldn't be complete without Caffè Vittoria, Boston’s first Italian café. This eatery has been serving authentic Italian beverages since 1929 and has a large assortment of gelato to sweeten your visit.

The Vibe

Old-school techniques and friendly service make this historic coffee shop a neighborhood stop you don't want to miss. 

What to Order

Peruse the extensive beverage menu featuring Italian classics such as espresso affogato, caffè mocha and caffè latte. Pair your breakfast beverage with a handmade pastry from the pasticceria.  

Caffè Vittoria | 296 Hanover St., Boston, MA 02113 | $$

38. Union Oyster House

Dine at America’s oldest restaurant when stopping by Union Oyster House. This historic restaurant in Boston is a local landmark located on the popular Freedom Trail tourist attraction. Indulge in fresh East Coast seafood at this upscale eatery.

The Vibe

Enjoy stately dining room décor and old-school fine-dining service at Union Oyster House. Visit for lunch or dinner — reservations are recommended but not required.

What to Order

Savor the Ye Olde seafood platter piled high with fried shrimp, clams, calamari, oysters and filet of fish with a side of onion rings.

Union Oyster House | 41 Union St., Boston, MA 02108 | $$$

39. Parker’s Restaurant 

Visit the famous Parker’s Restaurant located in the Omni Parker House for lovely service paired with delightful food. This historic restaurant is home to two famous Boston foods — the Parker House rolls and the Boston cream pie were both created at Parkers Restaurant. 

The Vibe

Parkers Restaurant is one of the glitziest dining establishments in the city, featuring immaculate service, elaborate interiors and a gourmet menu.

What to Order

Bite into a slice of history with the baked Boston scrod — tossed in coarse cracker crumbs, topped with lemon beurre blanc and served with jasmine rice. This dish has been on the Parker House menu since 1906 and is still a favorite today. The selection of decadent desserts available are the perfect end to a meal.

Parker’s Restaurant | 60 School St., Omni Parker House, Boston, MA 02108 | $$$

Boston is a vibrant city packed with an endless amount of flavorful dishes to try. From freshly caught East Coast seafood to authentic Italian pastries, with more than a dose of history and heritage thrown in between, whether you're a local looking to expand your culinary horizons or are planning your next trip, there is something delicious waiting for everyone in Boston.

For even more ways to explore Boston and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.