Lincoln Tavern and Restaurant
Lincoln Tavern's Fruity Pebbles pancakes with cereal milk anglais. / Photo by Joe St. Pierre, styling by Joy Howard The “chronic bacon” — salty slivers braised with maple and cider, served with crunchy cornflake-crusted French-toast bites and seasonal berries — satisfies sweets lovers and savory seekers alike at this Southie spot. The rest of the menu is also decadent, even by brunch standards: Find stacks of pancakes flecked with Fruity Pebbles and drizzled with cereal milk anglaise, not to mention ginormous coffee-rubbed brisket burritos. The breakfast pizzas and omelets draw crowds for hours-spanning, cocktail-fueled brunches that, thankfully, aren’t just relegated to the weekends. 425 W. Broadway, South Boston, MA 02127, lincolnsouthboston.com.
Mooncusser
A variety of dishes at Mooncusser. / Photo by Brian Samuels Since chef Carl Dooley’s 2021 arrival at this seafood-focused fine-dining gem, the restaurant has featured a rotating four-course tasting menu that highlights the best of seasonal, local ingredients. Diners can choose from two or three options per course, leaving the rest up to Dooley, who is outstanding at sneaking bursts of bold, globally inspired flavors and heat into dishes that sound simpler on paper. A recent spring menu, for example, featured glazed tilefish with asparagus and crispy tortilla, enhanced with some surprising fire from green chili. 304 Stuart St., Back Bay, MA 02116, mooncusserboston.com.
True Bistro
There are many places to eat meatless meals in Boston these days, but only one place to enjoy a truly sophisticated, fine-dining experience with an entirely vegan menu. Dishes like the crispy oyster mushrooms in guajillo chili sauce with a horseradish-dill aioli will not only dazzle the vegan and vegan-curious in your crew — they’ll also win over the carnivores. 1153 Broadway, Somerville, MA 02144, truebistroboston.com.
Umami Omakase
A piece of nigiri at Umami Omakase. / Photo by Kristin Teig Uni alum Gary Lei opened this exceptional North Cambridge sushi destination in late 2019, so perhaps it escaped your notice in the turmoil of the next few years. Now it’s waiting for you with 18 delightful courses of sashimi, sushi, Wagyu, and more (sake pairings optional but very recommended). The space is fairly no-frills — all the better to train your full attention on exquisite bites like a spoonful of quail egg, ikura, and tuna tartare, and luscious chawanmushi with shrimp and scallop. À la carte takeout is available, but this is a worthy splurge for a dine-in omakase feast. 2372 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140, umamiomakase.com.
The Coast Café
Purveyors of proper American soul food are scant in Boston, so we’re grateful that after a brief hiatus, this Cambridge takeout star is again serving up some of the crispiest, juiciest fried chicken in the city. That’s hardly all: Barbecued pork ribs, fried catfish, hefty sides (of collard greens, candied yams, and mac ’n’ cheese), and old-timey desserts (like sweet-potato pie and coconut wonder bars) should all be a part of your next beachside picnic or casual home supper. 233 River St., Cambridge, MA 02139, coastsoulcafe.com.
Grill 23 & Bar
At last count, Boston had more than two dozen luxury steakhouses. What situates this Back Bay institution atop that pricey heap? It has the dry-aged and genuine Wagyu steaks that beef snobs prefer; serves equally fine seafood and raw bar items; boasts a capacious, trophy-laden wine cellar; and epitomizes the gleaming opulence of Boston’s bygone private clubs. Plus, in a city increasingly dominated by national chains, it lets you feel like royalty while supporting a veteran local indie. 161 Berkeley St., Back Bay, MA 02116, grill23.com.
Contessa
Contessa's squash carpaccio. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal The crown jewel atop the Newbury Boston, Contessa upgrades the restaurant experience from swanky to downright royal. The service? Attentive without fawning. The drinks? The Sgroppino — with lemon vodka, lemon sorbet, and prosecco — is like basking in the sun. The food? A court of northern Italian delights, from pillowy ravioli to garlicky, hot-from-the-grill lamb chops. All of this in a dreamy art deco dining room, with views that are like looking out over the city from a throne. 3 Newbury St., Back Bay, MA 02116, contessaristorante.com/boston.
Sweet Cheeks Q
Brisket and sides at Sweet Cheeks Q. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal A dozen years in, Tiffani Faison’s ode to southern barbecue is still smoking the competition. We like the fatty, juicy brisket best, but you can’t go wrong with the other expertly done meats, from pulled pork to fried chicken. They’re best enjoyed on the sunny patio with sides of mac ’n’ cheese, collard greens, and the ridiculously good (and big-as-your-face) biscuits slathered with honey butter and seasonal jams. 1381 Boylston St., Fenway, MA 02215, sweetcheeksq.com.
Row 34
Now a quartet thanks to the 2023 debut of its Cambridge outpost, Row 34 continues to be a quintessential New England seafood spot, equally adept at dressing down (beers and oysters at the bar) or dressing up (splurge-y seafood towers and lobster rolls). The oysters, in particular, are outstanding — especially the namesake Row 34 variety from the restaurant’s friends at Island Creek Oysters in Duxbury, which are plump, crisp, and subtly briny. Looking to show an out-of-towner what’s special about Boston seafood? Take them here. Multiple locations, row34.com.
Grace by Nia
The stage at Grace by Nia. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal How thrilling to get a stunning live-music venue in the Seaport, a neighborhood increasingly (and thankfully) moving away from its chain-filled reputation. A dream-team collab between Nia Grace (of Roxbury/South End favorite Darryl’s Corner Bar & Kitchen) and Big Night, the hospitality group behind some of Boston’s snazziest nightclubs, the newly opened venue is now the place for both soul music and seriously decadent soul food — did someone say carrot-cake chicken and waffles? 60 Seaport Blvd., 3rd Floor, Seaport, MA 02210, gracebynia.com.
Barlette
The team behind the always-booked-up Brookline hit restaurant Cobble has done it again, this time with a BYOB cocktail bar. You read that right: You bring the booze, and Barlette provides the mixers, glassware, snacks, and dramatic-floral-wallcovering-bedecked vibes, complete with a variety of themed nooks to explore, like the book-filled Library. Just be quick — reservations open at noon on the first of every month and go fast. 318 Harvard St. #11, Brookline, MA 02446, drinkatbarlette.com.
Rare Steakhouse
The baked Alaska is set on fire tableside at Rare. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Seamless service and melt-in-your-mouth beef make Rare an oasis inside the hustle and bustle of Encore Boston Harbor, especially if you’re willing to fork over some of your casino winnings for, say, caviar service, a seafood tower, and Japanese Wagyu. The luxurious steakhouse harkens back to a golden age of fine dining, with white tablecloths and a fiery tableside preparation of baked Alaska, but the tiny, fancy chair just for your purse is a 2020s luxury through and through. Encore Boston Harbor, 1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149, encorebostonharbor.com/dining-and-nightlife/dining/rare-steakhouse.
Sekali
Sekali's spicy lamb and potato biryani at a pop-up at Bone Up Brewing in Everett. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal You have to act fast to catch Sekali: The immensely popular pop-up tends to sell out quickly, thanks to its flavor-packed lineup of Malaysian cuisine, a rarity in Boston. The menu’s always changing, but watch for dishes like pulut panggang (glutinous rice wrapped in a banana leaf, grilled, and stuffed with savory mixes such as rendang, pork floss, and braised anchovies) and jars of sweet kaya jam, courtesy of chef Derrick Teh, a Pagu and Momi Nonmi alum who hails from Borneo. sekali.boston.
Soleil at Boston Public Market
We’d travel miles and miles for chef Cheryl Straughter’s heavenly banana pudding — but thankfully, we don’t have to. In addition to Soleil’s Roxbury location, the dessert is now available at the restaurant’s new Boston Public Market stall. Stop by for irresistible soul food on the go, from ultra-cheesy mac ’n’ cheese to a brisket sandwich on a red velvet bun. (Sure, you can get a plain bun, but why would you?) 100 Hanover St., Downtown, MA 02108, soleilboston.com.
Cicada
A duck noodle soup occasionally available at Cicada. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Snuggled in Central Square, this caffeinated community hub beckons with perfect pick-me-ups to savor in the chill back garden or the artsy, greenery-filled interior. Coffee specialties range from the simple, like double shots of espresso, to the decadent Saigon Latte (otherwise known as the much-beloved Vietnamese coffee) with sweetened condensed milk. Good thing the Brooklyn-roasted beans pack a kick; they’ll keep you awake to enjoy Cicada’s excellent Vietnamese-inspired lunch and dinner service (don’t miss the lemongrass oxtail stew, if it’s available). 106 Prospect St., Cambridge, MA 02139, cicada-coffee-bar.square.site.
Farmacia
A cocktail at Farmacia. / Photo by Chris Vela This buzzy bar has just nine seats — so be sure to book your prepaid ticket far in advance. It’s well worth the effort to take a journey around the world through several cocktails. Whether it’s flavors of the Caribbean or the American South, the theme changes every few months, which means you’ll probably want to set a reminder to book a seat for the next, and the next, and the next. Light snacks accompany the drinks, but we recommend padding your stomach with a carb-y North End dinner beforehand. 5 North Sq., North End, MA 02128, farmacianorthend.com.
GlenPharmer Distillery
You might not need a chemistry degree to run a distillery, but it sure helps. Case in point: GlenPharmer, a project by wife-and-husband duo Beth and Patrick Downing, professional pharmacists who first met as chemistry lab partners in college. Head to their shimmering space by a brook in Franklin to sip “grain-to-glass” goodies — including craft gin, cranberry vodka (fittingly named Bog), and dark rum with just the right dose of spice — alongside a menu of tasty bites. 860 W. Central St., Franklin, MA 02038, glenpharmer.com.
The Dubliner
The Dubliner's day boat fish and chips. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Irish cuisine in America has long been stuck in a pub-food rut, despite Ireland’s steady evolution into a destination for European fare. Chef Aidan McGee, formerly of Michelin-starred restaurants in the U.K., is nudging Boston in that fresher direction at this bustling hot spot opposite Government Center, which plates exemplary versions of classic dishes, including the finest fish and chips in town and a spectacular take on the traditional Irish Sunday roast while pouring a proper pint of Guinness and a global slate of whiskeys. 2 Center Plz., Downtown, MA 02108, thedublinerboston.com.
Roundhead Brewing Company
Pizzas and a beer flight at Roundhead Brewing. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal This 2022 Hyde Park arrival has brought a thrilling lineup of creative beers to Boston, including a red ale made with Peruvian purple corn and a tart dragon fruit Berliner Weisse. It feels like a bonus that the brewery is truly a family-friendly, community-driven space — perhaps no surprise, given co-owners Luis Espinoza and Craig Panzer met at their kids’ soccer games. Also no surprise? Espinoza, a chef whose family ran a group of bakeries in Peru, cooks up some tasty pizzas (try the carne asada). There’s ice cream and churros, too, and a great live-music roster. Powerhouse at Westinghouse Plaza, Hyde Park, MA 02136, roundheadbrewing.com.
Dear Annie
Find Dear Annie by the glowing eyes on Mass. Ave. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Intimate and informal, Dear Annie is a wine bar for people who enjoy chatting with strangers at a communal table over glasses of intriguing natural wine and plates of pescatarian, locally sourced snacks. Find a seat and order at the counter, where the knowledgeable staff will help you choose a vino that’s just right as you cozy up among the plants for a delightful evening. 1741 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02140, dearanniebar.com.
Bisq at Time Out Market Boston
Bisq's fried chicken sandwich. / Photo by Joe St. Pierre, styling by Joy Howard There’s no secret ingredient in chef Alex Sáenz’s juicy, crispy fried chicken: It’s a simple flour coating. One bite and you’ll refuse to believe it, but it’s really all in the technique. A potato bun, bread-and-butter pickles, and ranch round things off for the sandwich form of his famous chicken. 401 Park Dr., Fenway, MA 02215, timeoutmarket.com/boston/eat-and-drink/bisq/.
Source
Source's pepperoni pizza with caramelized red onion and vin cotto. / Photo by Joe St. Pierre, styling by Joy Howard Maybe it’s those perfectly crisped-up ’roni cups; maybe it’s the light-but-not-too-light, just-kissed-by-char dough born from a sourdough starter made with yeast from local beer. Whatever the reason, we can’t get enough of Source’s pizza. Better yet, pair it with an espresso martini and a side of umami-packed miso chili-caramel Brussels sprouts. 27 Church St., Cambridge, MA 02138, sourcerestaurants.com.
Strega by Nick Varano
"Mamma's Famous Meatball" at Strega by Nick Varano. / Photo by Joe St. Pierre, styling by Joy Howard Known for hanging with A-list celebs, North End restaurateur Nick Varano is one of the most beloved and colossal characters around — but that’s nothing compared to the size of his Mamma’s Famous Meatball. Made from a tried-and-tested recipe of veal, mushroom, and Parmigiano, slathered in marinara and served next to a bed of ricotta, this oversize, pillow-soft beauty will make any Italophile say, “mangia!” 379 Hanover St., North End, MA 02113, stregabynickvarano.com.
The Banks Fish House
The Banks Fish House's New England clam chowder with Berkshire pork belly and chive oil. / Photo by Joe St. Pierre, styling by Joy Howard This souped-up spin on a classic succeeds thanks to its middle-of-the-road thickness, a bit of elegance (and flavor contrast) from the bright-green chive oil, and the sheer amount of clams and pork belly. The double-carb side — oyster crackers and a tasty little dinner bun — doesn’t hurt. 406 Stuart St., Back Bay, MA 02116, thebanksboston.com.
Pasta Beach
Remember when Mom said, “Eat your veggies”? At Pasta Beach, you’ll be shouting, “Yes, please!” That’s because of the recently revamped Italian joint’s twist on asparagus — that’s right, asparagus — which takes the spear-shaped vegetable to new heights thanks in part to a decadent Parmigiano-Reggiano cream. But the real showstopper is a crispy poached egg with a runny yolk that will make you fall in love with that advice of your childhood, possibly for the first time. 30 Rowes Wharf, Downtown, MA 02110, pastabeach.com/boston.
Hot Box
Sure, it’s a few decades younger than every “[Insert Name Here]’s Famous Roast Beef” shop along the North Shore, but Hot Box at Somerville’s Bow Market offers a thrilling homage to the classic, churning out rosy-pink, thinly sliced roast beef on buttery, griddled buns. Bow Market, 1 Bow Market Way, Somerville, MA 02143, eathotbox.com.
JM Curley
JM Curley's burger. / Courtesy photo Laden with cheddar, caramelized onions, pickles, and Russian dressing, the Curley burger offers steakhouse quality with casual, Big Mac vibes. The meat-to-bun ratio is just right, and the salty, char-grilled crust on the patty is perfection. Bonus: It’s available until 1:30 a.m. nightly. 21 Temple Pl., Downtown Crossing, MA 02111, jmcurleyboston.com.
Neptune Oyster
Neptune Oyster's lobster roll (the buttered version). / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Nineteen years in, Neptune still draws lines of eager diners daily, most seeking the lobster roll. It’s no mystery why: The generous portion of meat, served hot with butter (our pick) or cold with mayo, spills over the sides of a toasted brioche roll that’s sturdy enough to contain the meat but mild enough to let the lobster shine. 63 Salem St., North End, MA 02113, neptuneoyster.com.
NewBridge Café
NewBridge Cafe steak tips—don't forget the side of cherry peppers. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal We ate pounds and pounds of steak tips this year on a deep dive into the history of this uniquely New England dish (see the May issue for more) — and found our favorites here, marinated in a sweet barbecue-style sauce and grilled to a perfect tenderness. Don’t forget the hot cherry peppers on the side. 650 Washington Ave., Chelsea, MA 02150, newbridgecafe.com.
The Neighborhood Restaurant and Bakery
The cream of wheat at Neighborhood Restaurant & Bakery. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Is it strange to honor humble cream of wheat? Maybe. But the version at the Neighborhood, a Somerville brunch mainstay, is the epitome of “if you know, you know.” Many have tried to reverse-engineer the top-secret recipe, but you’re better off making the trip to Union Square for true love in a bowl liberally dusted with cinnamon. 25 Bow St., Somerville, MA 02143, theneighborhoodrestaurant.com.
Comfort Kitchen
Comfort Kitchen's potato curry cakes. / Photo by Rita Ferreira/Comfort Kitchen This sparkling 2023 addition to Upham’s Corner is appropriately named: You’ll leave feeling comforted and cared for with a belly full of rich Senegalese chicken stew, or savory brown-butter trout punched up with an herby chimichurri. Highlighting these dishes and more — with ingredients from jackfruit to jerk seasoning — Comfort Kitchen’s menu expertly trots the globe, pulling in wide-ranging influences from the African diaspora. The ambitious team has dreams of this restaurant serving as a community hub, and it’s easy to see how they’ll succeed. 611 Columbia Rd., Dorchester, MA 02125, comfortkitchenbos.com.
Madhouse Café
Drinks and snacks at Madhouse Café. / Photo by Brian Samuels Iced tahini lattes, Lebanese meat pies, sticky-sweet baklava, motorcycles…wait, what? Madhouse Café debuted in Roxbury in late 2022, connected to — and looking into, via a giant window — the acclaimed bike shop Madhouse Motors. (Got kids? They’ll be mesmerized, and you’ll have a chance to sip your espresso in peace.) Dripping with greenery and intricately patterned tables and pillows, the space is lovely, as is the staff, making this a destination whether or not you have a motorcycle that needs fixing. 24 Blue Hill Ave., Roxbury, MA 02119, madhousecafe.com.
Birds of Paradise
A cocktail at Birds of Paradise. / Photo by Ran Duan Craving a trip to some far-flung, warm destination? You only need to go as far as Brighton’s Charles River Speedway, where Birds of Paradise has recently taken flight. The latest from Ran Duan (Baldwin Bar, Blossom Bar) and his cocktail magicians focuses on stunning drinks that combine influences from two places into one concoction. The “San Juan to Hanoi” cocktail, for example, takes you on a journey from tropical to subtropical, blending an aged gold rum and the citrus-vanilla Licor 43 with buttered cold brew, passion fruit, and lime. Charles River Speedway, 525 Western Ave. #12, Brighton, MA 02135, birdsofparadisebar.com.
Yafa Bakery & Café
A rose petal-covered confection at Yafa Bakery & Café. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Every baked good or sweet treat is a work of art at Yafa, whose menu showcases flavors of the Middle East, from pistachio to orange blossom. A parade of dates — with various nut and citrus fillings and chocolate and gold-leaf wraps — take center stage, surrounded by delicately shaped pastries in a variety of styles. Savory breads, too, are a must-try, especially whichever one just came out of the oven. Linger over a sweet lemonada, and you might find yourself tasting an extra treat or two, courtesy of the incredibly hospitable staff. 594 Somerville Ave., Somerville, MA 02143, yafabakerycafe.com.
Lakon Paris Patisserie
The kinds of croissants one might find on a weekend at Lakon Paris Patisserie. / Photo by Joe St. Pierre, styling by Joy Howard If you spend time in the food-loving corners of social media, you’ve surely seen Lakon’s epic weekend croissant specials: layers and layers of buttery dough, shaped like a traditional croissant or even in cube and ring forms, stuffed with jellies and creams, drizzled with glazes, and topped with garnishes like little chocolate balls or freeze-dried fruit slices. The debut of a new location in 2023 only made the lines longer and the hype louder. But it’s well worth the wait on a weekend morning for these beauties. Brookline and Newton, lakonparispatisserie.com.
La Saison Bakery
Be the hero of the next family gathering by showing up with La Saison Bakery’s rich, heavenly chocolate cake — or treat yourself to a slice any old day, ideally paired with a cup of iced Persian tea or sweet masala chai. Dense, moist, and just the right balance of sweet-but-not-too-sweet, the treat will put all your plans on hold for the day as you sit and savor bite after irresistible bite. 407 Concord Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138, lasaison-bakery.com.
Union Square Donuts
An array of doughnuts from Union Square Donuts. / Photo by Joe St. Pierre, styling by Joy Howard Any way you slice ’em (and slice you should — they’re so rich that sharing is almost necessary), Union Square’s doughnuts are always at the front of the pack. Whether topped with bacon, coated in a lemony glaze, or stuffed with chocolate-chip cookie dough, these treats are stars in both taste and presentation. Even better: You can find them all over the city, from the flagship shop in Somerville to Coolidge Corner, whenever you need a sugar fix. Multiple locations, unionsquaredonuts.com.
Crescent Ridge
Ice cream at Crescent Ridge in Sharon. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal It’s no secret that ice cream tastes better when enjoyed on a working farm. Luckily, Crescent Ridge’s Boston Public Market outpost has mini plush cows (placed in a corral on green turf) that are worthy stand-ins for the rural vibes found at its Sharon headquarters, along with ice cream that’s fresh, creamy, and chock-full of mix-ins — from Campfire S’mores to Cherry Ridge Ripple. As for serving size, don’t be fooled: Even the smallest “tiny tot” cup is hefty enough to satisfy any hungry adult. Downtown and Sharon, crescentridge.com.
Crazy Good Kitchen
A Crazy Good Kitchen burger. / Photo by Brian Samuels After a day spent shopping in Newbury Street’s upscale boutiques, treat yourself to a meal that feels more down to earth — and downright fun. At the Back Bay location of Crazy Good Kitchen, a two-year-old offshoot of a popular Malden joint, you can enjoy a milkshake spiked with candies, cookies, and (optionally) booze; excellent burgers; and fried chicken, especially in sundae form with vanilla ice cream and hot honey. 268 Newbury St., Back Bay, MA 02116, crazygoodkitchen.com.
Peach Farm
Peach Farm's lobster with ginger and scallions. / Photo by Brian Samuels At a moment when Chinatown’s borders are shrinking due to high-end development, this stalwart still thrives by serving neighbors, restaurant industry pros, and lovers of traditional Chinese fare from all over. The unadorned underground space hits the neighborhood restaurant trifecta: It’s superb at one thing (in this case, Hong Kong–style live-tank seafood); great at many things (a long list of Cantonese classics); and value-priced at all of them. 4 Tyler St., Chinatown, MA 02111, peachfarmseafood.com.
Democracy Brewing
An employee pours a beer at Democracy Brewing. / Photo by Brian Samuels Several employees here seemed giddy when we ordered birria tacos; they’re a staff favorite, with good reason. As we wiped the savory broth off our hands and perused the style-hopping beer list — Sours! Radlers! Double IPAs! — we remembered why this worker-owned brewpub is such a fantastic neighborhood spot. The food and beer are great, the vibe is family-friendly and welcoming, but most of all, everyone just seems happy. 35 Temple Pl., Downtown, MA 02111, democracybrewing.com.
Tertulias Café
Empanaditas parroquiales at Tertulias Café. / Photo by Brian Samuels At this modest storefront with a tiny bar in the back, a crowd drawn mostly from the neighborhood’s large Colombian expat community gathers from morning to evening for hefty plates of Colombian specialties and a few Venezuelan dishes. Come for arepas with shredded chicken, mildly fiery shrimp ceviche, fried red snapper, or the staggering montañero plate (steak, chicharrón, plantains, beans, fried egg, and rice) and soak up the relaxed neighborhood vibe. 26-28 Porter St., East Boston, MA 02128, tertuliasboston.com.
Tres Gatos
A spread of dishes at Tres Gatos. / Photo by Brian Samuels The magic of this J.P. gem is that you can spend nine lives browsing the records and books in the back shop with a drink in hand before you even sit down in the main restaurant and peruse the Spanish menu. And where else can you sip a cocktail inspired by fabulous felines in pop culture, like Garfield and Crookshanks? Foodwise, the dinner paella tops the charts, while the sourdough brunch waffles are downright scene-stealing. 470 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, tresgatosjp.com.
Parla
A cocktail at Parla. / Photo by Brian Samuels Sure, this speakeasy-style gem is known for its knockout bar with house-made shrubs and riffs on classic cocktails (martini with lemongrass gin, anyone?). But don’t sleep on the creative Italian fare — rich seafood risotto, fresh burrata — best enjoyed with sleeves rolled up as you adventure through the “Dungeon Master” secret cocktail menu, rolling a 20-sided die to determine your boozy fate. 230 Hanover St., North End, MA 02113, parlaboston.com.
Ashur Restaurant
A spread of dishes at Ashur Restuarant. / Photo by Brian Samuels Regulars come from near and far for Ashur’s deeply comforting Middle Eastern and African food (particularly Somali cuisine), from spice-packed biryani to rich beef stew and fall-off-the-bone meat dishes. Bring a friend or two and split one of the entrées known as “sports plates” — the goat and lamb combo, served with rice and salad, is the way to go. 291 Roxbury St., Roxbury, MA 02119, ashur-restaurant.business.site.
Chickadee
Chickadee's slow-roasted porchetta. / Photo by Brian Samuels Chef John daSilva’s menu at this warm industrial beauty flows with the seasons — just one reason to visit his and Ted Kilpatrick’s Mediterranean-leaning restaurant often. One week you might find razor-clam spaghetti with zippy green harissa; another, you’re diving into striped-bass ceviche. What keeps you coming back, too, is the unpretentious and welcoming scene, making it just about the perfect place to nest. 21 Drydock Ave., Seaport, MA 02210, chickadeerestaurant.com.
Moonshine 152
"Leslie Knope's fried chicken and waffle" at Moonshine 152. / Photo by Brian Samuels If you live in the neighborhood, you know the menu — the crowd-pleasing jalapeño crab rangoon, the legendary mushroom tofu burger, the famous fried chicken and waffles. You know the staff, too, especially effervescent chef-owner Asia Mei, who’s always there with a smile as she checks in on diners. For weeknight dinners and weekend date nights, this is the living room of Southie, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. 152 Dorchester Ave., South Boston, MA 02127, moonshine152.com.
Coppa
Pizza at Coppa. / Photo by Brian Samuels Things might get a little flashier at Jamie Bissonnette and Ken Oringer’s other spots, but at this South End favorite, spotless technique and deep culinary knowledge quietly underlie the cozy enoteca menu of house-made pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and other Italian treats. Some all-stars haven’t left the menu since day one — we’re looking at you, cavatelli with tomato-broccoli sugo — and that’s just how we like it. 253 Shawmut Ave., South End, MA 02118, coppaboston.com.
Brendan Pelley, Xenia Greek Hospitality
Chef Brendan Pelley is the culinary director for Xenia Hospitality Group, the team behind Krasi, Greco, and Bar Vlaha. / Photo by Jimmy Pineapple Krasi, Bar Vlaha, Greco, Hecate, and more to come: Xenia Greek Hospitality is on fire these days, thanks in part to the 2022 addition of Brendan Pelley as culinary director. Pelley’s been a power player in Boston-area Greek dining for the better part of a decade, from his Pelekasis pop-up to his time at Doretta Taverna, and the backing of this ever-growing restaurant group is giving him a bigger stage than ever to showcase things such as his famous 100-layer spanakopita (find it on Krasi’s brunch menu) or a rustic braised beef-cheek stew from the cuisine of the nomadic Vlach people (at Brookline newbie Bar Vlaha). We can’t wait to see what he does next. Multiple locations, xeniagreekhospitality.com.
Kendall DaCosta, Out of Many One People
Kendall DaCosta. / Photo by Pat Piasecki Chef Kendall DaCosta has his mom to thank for the title of his supper club, “Out of Many One People.” Shortly before his kickoff event in June 2022, he was chatting with her about how he wanted to celebrate Caribbean cuisine when she reminded him that “Out of Many, One People” is the national motto on her native Jamaica’s coat of arms. Bingo. It was a light-bulb moment that illuminated the whole vibe that he was trying to create with his experiential meals, which use flavors from around the world to highlight Afro-American and Caribbean cuisine. “I just ran with that,” he says, his voice crackling with excitement. Read more here. chefkendalldacosta.com.
Tracy Chang, Pagu
We don’t know how she does it all, but Pagu chef and owner Tracy Chang continues to run a successful Spanish-meets-Japanese restaurant in Cambridge while simultaneously growing numerous community-service initiatives with impacts locally and beyond. During the pandemic, for example, she cofounded several mutual aid organizations targeting food insecurity and also coauthored food-service health-and-safety protocols that went on to be used nationwide. And with her latest project — a roundtable dinner series featuring thought-provoking discussions on sustainability and more — we can only assume she’ll continue to change the world. 310 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02139, gopagu.com.
Renae Connolly, Moëca
Nothing ends a meal better than an ethereal dessert, and no one makes one quite so otherworldly as Renae Connolly, who’s been spinning sugary tales throughout Boston’s restaurant scene for years. These days she’s at Moëca, the year-old seafood spot from the Giulia team, creating gorgeously executed desserts with a lightness that expertly complements the fish-focused main menu. Her creative frozen treats often play a starring role: think smoked-vanilla-mascarpone gelato with spicy caramel popcorn or a lemon bombe with basil meringue, raspberry-hibiscus purée, and pistachio gelato. 1 Shepard St., Cambridge, MA 02138, moecarestaurant.com.
Ryan Lotz, Traveler Street Hospitality
Imagine the unicycle-on-a-high-wire/juggling/fire-eating act that is simultaneously managing cocktails, wine, and beer programs for an elegant, seafood-focused Italian restaurant (Bar Mezzana); a stunning tropical-drinks bar with Asian food (Shore Leave); a tiny, high-end sushi and sashimi spot (No Relation); and a raucous, hard-partying American brasserie (Black Lamb). And killing it at all of them? That’s what genial beverage manager Ryan Lotz does every day. (At least they’re all within the same few city blocks.) Multiple locations, travelerstreethospitality.com.
Jamaica Mi Hungry
The fiery, hearty, soulful fare of Jamaica has a cozy home in Jackson Square, where chef Ernie Campbell uses skills honed as a caterer and food-truck operator to serve heaping helpings of jerk chicken, coconut shrimp, oxtail, and curry goat. Bonus points for the prime location next to an MBTA Orange Line stop and bus hub, which makes these good eats accessible to a broad, underserved swath of the city, notably a nearby section of Roxbury with few sit-down or takeout restaurants. 225 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, jamaicamihungry.com.
Yunnan Kitchen
Yunnan Kitchen's boiled pork in chili oil. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Chinese cuisine in Boston got a welcome expansion with the arrival of this South End spot showcasing Dian fare, which dazzles with eye-watering mala heat (fresh chilies and Sichuan peppers), fierce raw garlic, and novel aromatics like the gingery tsaoko. Bring friends to share huge, fragrant, bubbling pots of pork in chili oil and Yongping braised chicken, and learn why chef Yisha Siu has already garnered a James Beard Award nomination for Best Chef Northeast. 1721B Washington St., South End, MA 02118, yunnankitchensouthend.com.
Tawakal Halal Café
This East Boston favorite continues to impress with its heartwarming takes on Somali food and a broader look at East African and Middle Eastern cuisines. Sip a refreshing iced shaah and dig into falafel-stuffed chapati wraps, fragrant plates of chicken biryani, and crispy beef sambusa. And be sure to top it with the fiery and fruity house hot sauce, a mango-based stunner that takes any dish up a notch. 389 Maverick St., East Boston, MA 02128, tawakalhalal.com.
Moldova Restaurant
Moldova Restaurant's pork dumplings. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal This seven-year-old Newton spot has long been a neighborhood favorite for its traditional Moldovan cuisine: plump little pork dumplings, a deeply delicious wine-and-rosemary-braised lamb dish, tasty cheese-and-potato pies. The wine list, which dives deep into interesting picks from Moldova, is also a winner. Lately, we’ve been thrilled to see the restaurant amping up its schedule of live music and other entertainment with a diverse lineup of bands every Friday and other activities — swing dancing, calligraphy lessons, wine tastings, and more — throughout the week. 344 Watertown St., Newton, MA 02458, tastemoldova.com.
Deuxave
White-tablecloth dining is on the wane in Boston as diners gravitate to more-casual, modest formats. But some evenings still call for cosseting service, beautiful food, and rare wines. Amid a sea of steak-frites-slinging bistros, chef Chris Coombs’s Back Bay temple to la gastronomie française still provides an elegant setting — and gorgeous renderings of French classics like foie gras and roast duck — for celebrations of romance, round-number birthdays, or self-care splurges. 371 Commonwealth Ave., Back Bay, MA 02115, deuxave.com.
India Quality
Over the span of 40 years, owner Parmjit Singh has survived the gentrification of Kenmore Square, a surge in the number of competing South Asian restaurants, and a global pandemic. That India Quality is still standing as the city’s most beloved purveyor of Punjab-centered Indian cuisine is a testament to the restaurant’s incomparable pakoras; North Indian curries; smoky clay-oven-cooked meats; sultry, long-cooked vegetable and legume stews; and beautiful fresh breads — all accompanied by hospitable service. 484 Commonwealth Ave., Fenway/Kenmore, MA 02215, indiaquality.com.
Giulia
With so many great Italian restaurants in the Boston area, competition for this category is always fierce, but this decade-old trattoria from chef Michael Pagliarini and his partner Pamela Ralston remains at the head of the pack for good reason. Several reasons, actually: its pretty, rustic ambiance; superb local sourcing; spectacular grilled and roasted meats; and, above all, delectable pastas rolled out every day on a long table that seats big parties at night. 1682 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138, giuliarestaurant.com.
Omori Izakaya
Chirashi and a variety of skewers from Omori in Malden, via delivery. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Looking for quick after-work bites of teriyaki-glazed chicken skewers, crispy chicken karaage, or fried octopus nuggets, perhaps washed down with a crisp Sapporo beer? Or maybe a longer, lingering dinner of rich bone-broth ramen or prettily plated donburi rice bowls? Omori is a shining example of the Japanese-style pub known as an izakaya, a casual genre perfect for a night out with friends. Brookline and Malden, omori.net.
Trade
If chef Jody Adams and restaurant group A Street Hospitality are Boston culinary royalty, Trade is their palace, a soaring testament to Greek and Mediterranean flavors set inside a contemporary-looking taverna accented with verdant foliage. Don’t miss perfectly attuned classics like the grilled octopus or the rosemary-marinated lamb chops, as well as surprising knockouts such as the bulgur chickpea pilaf or the oxtail pastitsio made with fresh pasta and Manouri cheese. 540 Atlantic Ave., Downtown, MA 02210, trade-boston.com.
Barra
The blue-corn tortillas are things of beauty at this Somerville hideaway, lovingly hand-pressed and shrouding morita mayonnaise-slathered fried fish and pork al pastor with grilled pineapple. But that’s not the only thing we adore: Deep-fried empanadas and enchiladas doused with rich house-made mole sauce join drinks that celebrate less-seen spirits such as sotol and nixta (a silky liqueur made of corn) on a menu quite different from any other Mexican restaurant in town. Whatever you order, do try the house margarita with the rim of chapulines, or ground fried grasshoppers — another tasty way to enjoy the Mexico City vibe. 23a Bow St., Somerville, MA 02143, barraunionsquare.com.
Bab Al-Yemen
Bab Al-Yemen's aqdah dajaj (foreground)—a chicken stew—and lamb haneeth with rice. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Lucky Kenmore Square got one of the region’s only Yemeni restaurants last year — a superb (and superbly homey) addition to the neighborhood and Boston at large. From enormous pieces of fresh flatbread and warming stews to clove-and-cardamom-spiced teas, the lovely halal menu makes this a cozy spot in the winter, after the latest Sox game, or anytime, really. The ambiance adds to the comfort, from the colorful stained glass to the traditional low, pillowed seating area. 468 Commonwealth Ave., Fenway/Kenmore, MA 02215, babalyemenboston.com.
La Royal
La Royal's scallop and blue cod ceviche. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Every dinner feels like a party at this Cambridge showstopper, the follow-up to Maria Rondeau and JuanMa Calderón’s Somerville gem Celeste (which, incidentally, was born out of actual dinner parties in the couple’s home). Their sparkling hospitality is the perfect complement to sips of pisco, citrusy bites of ceviche, and hearty sirloin-stuffed polenta cakes with cheese. And let’s not forget the gorgeous entrées that bring diners on a journey through several Peruvian cuisines, from the Amazonian fish dish patarashca to arroz con pato from Chiclayo in the north. 221 Concord Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138, laroyalcambridge.com.
Estragon Tapas Bar
With authentic tapas, paellas, and other Madrid-style dishes, chef/owner Julio de Haro and co-owner Lara Egger have built a loyal following for Estragon over the past 15 years, both in the dining room and the kitchen — many of the sweet staffers have been with them from the beginning. Weekend diners should request a table in Bar GoGo, the front room that’s also the hippest mid-mod space in the city. 700 Harrison Ave., South End, MA 02118, estragontapas.com.
Mahaniyom
Mahaniyom's kang pu (crab curry). / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal From Thai tea Sazeracs and pandan daiquiris to a tightly curated menu of dishes that remind the restaurant’s Thailand-born staff of their various hometowns, Mahaniyom hits all the right notes and then some (see: crispy chicken skin, crab fried rice, and the unique green-papaya pad thai, which replaces noodles with thin strips of fruit). We’re also very excited to check out the team’s next project, Merai, which will offer a different take on Thai cuisine when it opens later this year. 236 Washington St., Brookline, MA 02445, mahaniyomboston.com.
Phở Hòa and Ánh Hồng
Diners cook several courses of bò 7 món at the table at Phở Hòa and Ánh Hồng. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal Since these two Dorchester Vietnamese favorites teamed up under one roof last year, it’s been easier than ever for diners to get the best of both worlds. Now past the three-decade mark, Phở Hòa is probably best known for its extensive selection of phở, noodle soups with a seemingly endless combination of meat options. But the addition of Ánh Hồng brings along bò 7 món, a thrilling seven-course parade of beef dishes (including some you’ll cook at the table yourself ). The third course, thinly sliced eye of round steak marinated in lemongrass and sesame, then grilled in hot butter, is among our favorite bites of the year. 1370 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester, MA 02122, phohoarestaurant.com.
Suya Joint
Suya Joint's beef suya. / Photo by Rachel Leah Blumenthal At this Nubian Square mainstay, Nigerian chef and owner Cecelia Lizotte showcases spicy, smoky grilled beef skewers (the restaurant’s namesake suya, best served extra-spicy) alongside traditional stews and more from various regions of West Africa, particularly Nigeria. Our favorite? Taushe stew from northern Nigeria, a thick and creamy peanut-and-vegetable blend served with your choice of protein (try cow foot or goat) and your choice of fufu, the starchy side dish made of pounded yam, cassava, or other tubers. 185 Dudley St., Roxbury, MA 02119, suyajoint.com.