Boston Food Guide
Over the past few years, we’ve been lucky to spend a lot of time in Boston while visiting our daughter at Boston University. It’s become one of our favorite cities to return to. Charming, walkable, and full of character. Boston has that ideal mix: big enough to have world-class restaurants and culture, yet small enough to feel approachable. And the food scene? It just keeps getting better. From crave-worthy bakeries and neighborhood favorites to elegant dinners worth planning ahead for, we’ve found plenty to love each time we visit. Here are our some of our favorites.
Morning Favorites: Bakeries & Cafés
Flour Bakery + Café
Multiple Locations
Flour Bakery is a Boston staple for good reason. Their pastries and breakfast sandwiches are consistently excellent. The sticky buns pieces (when available) and breakfast egg sandwich are favorites, as is the rich and creamy yogurt parfait. Salads and sandwiches are also available for lunch. You really can’t go wrong.
Tatte Bakery & Café
Multiple Locations
You can find a Tatte on nearly every corner, but that doesn’t make it any less special. The Middle Eastern–inspired menu and beautiful presentation set it apart. The shakshuka, pistachio & raspberry meringue clouds, and seasonal salads make it an easy choice for breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
Where to Dine: Lunch, Dinner & More
Gufo
660 Cambridge St, 617.945.9734
Just across the river in Cambridge, Gufo is a restaurant that we return to again and again for its Italian-inspired dishes in a relaxed, modern setting. Handmade pastas and a thoughtful wine list make it worth the short drive from BU. We typically sit inside, but they have a patio that would be perfect on warm evenings.
Barcelona Wine Bar
Multiple Locations
Barcelona Wine Bar is a festive spot or any occasion. The tapas-style menu allows guests to sample and share many of the delicious items. They offer unique craft cocktails, sangria, and an extensive wine list that highlights Spanish and other European wines. It can get loud if you’re seated near the bar, but the energy adds to the fun.
Bar ’Cino
1032 Beacon St, 617.608.3220
Bar ’Cino is a neighborhood restaurant with a fresh, modern Italian menu that has something for everyone. The wood-fired pizzas and salads are fantastic. Sit outside, at the large bar, or in the lively restaurant and enjoy the friendly service and a relaxed vibe.
Blue Ribbon Sushi
500a Commonwealth Ave, 617.264.0410
Located steps from the Commonwealth Hotel, Blue Ribbon Sushi offers an elegant escape just minutes from BU. The fish is incredibly fresh, the rolls are inventive, and the sake list goes on and on. It’s a favorite among locals, so reservations are recommended.
Saltie Girl
279 Dartmouth St, 617.267.0691
If you love seafood, make sure Saltie Girl is on your list. The raw bar is unmatched, and the lobster roll easily earns its reputation. It’s a small, bustling space, so reservations are a good idea and absolutely worth it.
Ma Maison
272 Cambridge St, 617.725.8855
Tucked away on a quiet side street in Beacon Hill, Ma Maison feels like stepping into a small Parisian bistro. The menu highlights classic French dishes like escargot, mussels, and perfectly cooked steak frites. And, the by-the-glass pour is very generous. It’s cozy and ideal for a special night in the city.
Time Out Market Boston
401 Park Dr
Located in the heart of the Fenway area, Time Out Market brings together some of Boston’s best chefs under one roof. It’s a concept repeated in cities around the world and makes for a fun spot to gather with a few friends or a larger group. Communal dining is available inside, with individual tables outside, and reservations are available. You’ll find everything from fresh sushi and craft burgers to pizza, pasta, tacos, crepes, and donuts — plus two full bars. It’s lively, often hosting events like beer tastings, flea markets, and live DJs, making it a great choice for lunch, a casual dinner, or a pre-game bite.
Even after countless trips, Boston always has a way to surprise us. New restaurants, seasonal menus, and unexplored corners of the city make us excited to go back again and again.
