Best of Boston

Hot take: A spoon should be able to stand straight up in a proper bowl of New England clam chowder. Layered with tender clams and peppered with chopped dill, the creamy concoction at this old-school North End institution allows for exactly that. Belly up to the harbor-side bar for the fullest experience, and relish a bowl or overflowing mug that passes the taste and thickness tests.