Finding somewhere delicious, satisfying and perfectly situated to dine in Boston is simple and easy. If you like to try new things while on the road or simply crave the comforts of home, this city’s wide range of culinary delights is sure to please all tastes. Although many neighborhoods specialize in certain cuisines, it is well worth exploring some of Boston’s hidden gems as well to discover new bites and fun styles. Top chefs from around the world flock there to offer their skills as foodie masters in the kitchen.
Have a little breakfast or lunch at one of Copley’s trendy affairs, then snack along the food trucks in Dewey Square. An iconic bowl of clam chowder must be had either along the Seaport, Waterfront or at Quincy Market too sometime during your stay. Get daring with a look into some of Chinatown’s incredibly authentic dim sum restaurants, then work on small plates and appetizers in the Financial District or Fort Point. Have a cocktail with bar food at Fenway, then swing back to the North End for dessert. These are only a few suggestions among the countless dining possibilities across the city.
Boston Restaurant Types
Cheap Eats
As a city teeming with hungry co-eds and young professionals, it’s an ideal place for wallet-friendly bites from Faneuil Hall to Fenway.
Mexican
Authentic ingredients, generous portions and traditional recipes make Boston’s Mexican joints often true crowd pleasers.
Traditional Italian
Have some homemade pastas topped with classic meatballs with dishes that go back generations.
Modern Italian
A new twist on an old favorite is often the motto at the city’s trendy and chic restaurants featuring modern Italian flair.
French
Feel transported to Paris with some nibbles at fantastic French cafes, bakeries and fine dining – all within Boston proper.
Chinese
With one of the country’s largest Chinatown, travelers can be sure to discover authentic and delicious delicacies.
Asian
A rainbow of flavors and ingredients can be had in some of Boston’s most flavorful Asian restaurants and cafes throughout the city.
Japanese
Sit back and enjoy fresh made sushi, ramen and more at Boston Japanese restaurants, ranging from quick takeaway to elegant dining.
Thai
Spice and mystery surrounds the culinary mastery behind some of the city’s wonderfully genuine Thai restaurants.
Irish
Wax poetic about Boston’s proud ties to Ireland over some deliciously prepared Irish dishes at top restaurants and pubs.
Steakhouse
Hear the sizzle and pop of perfectly cooked beef at Boston steakhouses. They can be found in chic hotels, near theater venues and along the waterfront.
Pizza
There’s nothing like an authentic pizza pie, especially when it comes from one of Boston’s authentic shops that have been around for generations.
Café
Relax and have a casual meal inside or outdoors at charming and trendy Boston cafes. These can be found inside parks, along streets or on the water.
GastroPub
Mix together fine food and tasty libations with a visit to Boston’s hot gastro pubs scattered throughout the city proper.
Bistro
Small restaurants with big personalities are what makes Boston’s bistro scene extra special. Try new foods and drinks in intimate settings.
Family Dining
Please both kids and adults with Boston’s array of friendly and fun dining options aimed to please even the pickiest palette.
American
Have a hearty meal in one of the country’s most historic cities that rings true to proud American ingredients and traditions.
Modern American
Innovative chefs constantly take risk with great rewards for trendy and on-point Modern American food explored in Boston.
Seafood
Some of the best cuisine coming from the ocean is found in Boston, whether it be deep-fried and served on paper or part of a five-course dining experience.
Brunch
It might not be New York, but Boston hold its own with tons of sweet and savory offerings during prime brunch time.
Burger
There’s nothing like sinking into a big and juicy burger after a long day of sightseeing. Luckily, Boston offers plenty of tasty options.
Dessert
It would be a huge shame to skip dessert while in Boston, especially when it comes to signatures cakes, cannoli and chocolate.
Bakery
Baked goodies are the rage around Boston, from flaky croissants covered in almonds to crunchy cookies created fresh every day.
Breakfast
Start the day off wonderfully in a classic Boston diner or even at a freshly made buffet at top hotels in town.
Boston Restaurant Locations
Back Bay
Treat yourself to a little luxury by trying fine dining in one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Boston.
Beacon Hill
Be surrounded by history and urban beauty at a restaurant or café in this iconic area of the city.
North End
Known as one of the best places for Italian cuisine in the country, discover wonderful experiences in Little Italy.
Fenway/Kenmore
Much more than hot dogs, the Fenway/Kenmore area also has wallet-friendly eats and fresh seafood to boot.
South End
As a trendy and modern spot for new and international cuisine, the South End is perfect for adventurous eaters.
South Boston
Full of gastropubs, brunch spots and more, South Boston offers a neighborhood feel sprinkled with a few great restaurants.
Chinatown
Have some authentic Asian cuisine only minutes from downtown Boston and other iconic neighborhoods in the area.
Charlestown
What was once a place of industry is now a young and fun spot to dine in style, especially for up and coming restaurants.
Financial District
Tell the suits to move over so you can try a plethora of wonderful culinary delights in this neighborhood.
Downtown Crossing
Put down your shopping bags and grab a bite to eat at any of these eclectic collection of restaurants.
Leather District
Quick and wallet-friendly is the way to go in this small district that draws commuters and professional lunch goers.
Seaport District
Pay for the scenery and the fabulous cuisine that is prominent along Boston’s newest waterfront hotspot.
Fort Point
Funky and post-modern, many of the restaurants found here are just as innovative and fresh as the neighboring startups that work there.
West End
Catch unspoiled views of the Charles River while noshing at charming restaurants in the West End.
Waterfront
Start where it all began along Boston’s old waterfront as classic seafood restaurants, cafes and more.
Government Center
Although restaurants are fairly scarce there, keep an eye out for a thriving food truck scene and a few hidden gems.
Theater District
Make reservations before the show at a top restaurant located near some of the city’s beat performance venues,
Harvard Square Cambridge
Eat with vigor and enjoy the pub scene in a fun and young section of the city.
East Cambridge
Feel a little bit brighter but not much lighter at these restaurants, delis and cafes near MIT and other academic institutions.