Boston Restaurants Everyone Should Try At Least Once

Boston’s food scene is a delicious mix of history, culture, and creativity that makes every meal an adventure. From classic clam chowder spots to trendy new eateries, this city offers flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

I’ve put together a list of places that capture what makes eating in Boston so special. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these restaurants deserve a spot on your must-try list.

1. Union Oyster House

Stepping into America’s oldest restaurant feels like traveling back to 1826. Wooden booths and creaky floors tell stories of politicians and writers who dined here centuries ago.

Their oyster bar remains the main attraction, where fresh shellfish arrives daily from local waters. I recommend trying the classic New England clam chowder alongside a plate of oysters.

The atmosphere alone makes this worth visiting, even before you taste the food.

2. Neptune Oyster

This tiny North End gem packs huge flavor into every dish they serve. Lines form early because locals know the lobster rolls here are legendary.

You’ll find two versions: warm with butter or cold with mayo, both overflowing with sweet meat. The oyster selection changes daily, offering varieties from both coasts.

Arrive when they open to avoid the wait, or prepare to be patient for excellence.

3. Mike’s Pastry

Walking past the window displays of colorful cannoli feels impossible without stopping inside. This iconic bakery has been a North End staple since 1946, drawing crowds day and night.

Their cannoli come in flavors ranging from traditional ricotta to chocolate chip and pistachio. The shells stay crispy, and the filling tastes fresh every single time.

Grab a box to share, though you might not want to.

4. Legal Sea Foods

What started as a fish market in 1950 became a Boston institution known worldwide. Their commitment to freshness means they serve only fish that meets strict quality standards.

The clam chowder here has been served at presidential inaugurations, which tells you something important. Beyond chowder, their menu showcases New England seafood prepared simply to let natural flavors shine.

It’s touristy, yes, but tourists aren’t always wrong about good food.

5. Toro

Spanish tapas get a creative Boston twist at this South End hotspot. Chef Ken Oringer brings bold flavors and inventive combinations that keep people coming back weekly.

The corn with aioli, lime, and cheese has achieved cult status among regulars. Small plates encourage sharing and trying multiple dishes, making dinner feel like an adventure.

Reservations are tough to snag, but the bar accepts walk-ins if you’re feeling lucky.

6. Giacomo’s Ristorante

No reservations, cash only, and tables packed so close you’ll make friends with neighbors. These quirks somehow add to the charm of this North End favorite.

Massive portions of pasta arrive swimming in garlic, butter, and perfectly cooked seafood. The energy in the small dining room buzzes with conversation and the clatter of happy eating.

Bring patience for the wait and appetite for generous Italian-American cooking done right.

7. Regina Pizzeria

Since 1926, coal-fired ovens have been turning out crispy, charred pizzas that define Boston-style pies. The original North End location maintains the authentic atmosphere that made them famous.

Thin crust gets topped with tangy sauce and quality cheese, creating the perfect balance. The Giambotta, loaded with vegetables and pepperoni, remains a customer favorite.

Other locations exist, but nothing beats eating pizza where it all started.

8. Oleana

Chef Ana Sortun transforms Mediterranean ingredients into dishes that surprise and delight your taste buds. Her Cambridge restaurant showcases flavors from Turkey, Greece, and the Middle East with creative flair.

Vegetable dishes shine just as brightly as meat options, making this ideal for diverse dining groups. The seasonal menu changes regularly, giving repeat visitors new experiences each time.

Make reservations well ahead, especially for their charming patio during warmer months.

9. Myers + Chang

Bright colors and bold Asian flavors make dining here feel like a celebration. Joanne Chang and Christopher Myers created a menu that bounces between Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese influences.

Tiger’s tears salad and pork belly buns rank among the most popular orders. The energetic atmosphere and reasonably priced plates encourage ordering multiple dishes to share.

Their brunch menu offers creative twists on morning favorites that shouldn’t be missed either.

10. Island Creek Oyster Bar

Connections to their own oyster farm in Duxbury mean the shellfish here couldn’t be fresher. The restaurant celebrates New England’s maritime heritage with a refined but approachable menu.

Beyond excellent oysters, their seafood stew and whole roasted fish showcase chef Jeremy Sewall’s talents. The Kenmore Square location buzzes with energy from both tourists and Red Sox fans.

Ask your server for oyster recommendations based on your flavor preferences and adventurousness.

11. Flour Bakery + Cafe

Joanne Chang’s bakery empire started with one location and grew because everything tastes incredible. Her famous sticky buns have won competitions and converted countless breakfast skeptics.

Sandwiches, salads, and seasonal specials round out a menu that works for any meal. Multiple locations across Boston mean you’re never too far from excellent baked goods.

Arrive early for the best selection, though they bake fresh batches throughout the day.

12. Santarpio’s Pizza

This East Boston institution has been slinging pizza and grilled lamb skewers since 1903. The no-frills atmosphere puts all focus on the food, which speaks for itself.

Charred crust, simple toppings, and perfectly melted cheese create pizzas that taste like tradition. The combination of pizza and barbecue seems unusual until you try it yourself.

Cash only, limited seating, and occasional long waits are small prices for authentic old-school Boston dining.

13. Row 34

Oysters and craft beer come together beautifully at this Fort Point Channel spot. The industrial-modern space feels hip without being pretentious about it.

Their ever-changing oyster selection includes varieties from up and down the East Coast. Cooked seafood dishes are equally impressive, particularly anything involving local fish or shellfish.

The knowledgeable staff can guide you through pairing oysters with their extensive beer list perfectly.

14. Coppa

This tiny South End enoteca proves that great things come in small packages. House-made salumi hangs in the window, signaling the Italian craftsmanship inside.

Small plates designed for sharing encourage trying multiple items from their seasonal menu. The wine list focuses on Italian bottles that complement the rich, flavorful food.

Reservations are essential for this intimate space that fills up quickly every single night.

15. Eastern Standard

This Kenmore Square brasserie channels old-school elegance with its art deco design and classic cocktails. The scene here buzzes with energy, especially before Red Sox games.

Their raw bar impresses, while the kitchen turns out reliable French-American fare. Brunch draws crowds for good reason, with both sweet and savory options done exceptionally well.

The bar program alone makes this worth visiting for expertly crafted drinks and knowledgeable bartenders.

16. Alden & Harlow

Chef Michael Scelfo’s Harvard Square restaurant earned national attention for creative American cooking. His famous burger, available only at the bar, has developed a devoted following.

Seasonal ingredients get transformed into dishes that feel both familiar and surprising. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes fine dining feel accessible rather than intimidating.

Walk-ins can usually snag bar seats, where you’ll get the full menu plus front-row kitchen views.

17. Ostra

Mediterranean seafood gets luxury treatment at this sophisticated Back Bay restaurant. The elegant space feels special enough for celebrations while remaining comfortable.

Whole fish prepared tableside and creative crudo preparations showcase the kitchen’s skills. Their oyster selection and creative cocktails start meals on a high note.

Prices reflect the upscale experience, but the quality and service justify the splurge for special occasions.

18. Mamma Maria

Refined Italian cuisine in a historic North End townhouse creates romance and elegance. Unlike many neighborhood spots, this restaurant offers a quieter, more sophisticated atmosphere.

Northern Italian dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients showcase traditional techniques with modern touches. The wine list features excellent Italian selections to complement your meal.

Reservations are strongly recommended for this intimate space perfect for date nights and special celebrations.

19. Eventide Fenway

Maine’s celebrated seafood spot brought their brown butter lobster roll to Boston. The Fenway location captures coastal Maine vibes while fitting perfectly into the urban neighborhood.

Their innovative approach to New England seafood includes creative raw bar offerings and perfectly fried whole fish. The cocktail program deserves equal attention, featuring creative drinks that pair beautifully with seafood.

Counter seating lets you watch the kitchen work their magic on your order.

20. Saltie Girl

Tinned fish becomes trendy and delicious at this Back Bay seafood spot. The focus on preserved seafood from around the world introduces flavors many diners have never experienced.

Fresh seafood dishes are equally impressive, showcasing New England’s bounty alongside international specialties. The bright, Instagram-worthy space attracts a fashionable crowd that appreciates quality and creativity.

Their lobster roll has gained fame, but don’t overlook the tinned fish that makes this place unique.