21+ Foodie Approved Restaurants In Massachusetts
Heading on a foodie tour of Massachusetts? Here are our CAN’T miss restaurants in Massachusetts that are well-known for a reason!
Massachusetts is home to a vibrant culinary scene, offering a diverse range of cuisines from traditional New England fare to global fusion dishes. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a fan of Italian cuisine, there’s something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds!
Massachusetts is well-known for the classic Lobster roll and super fresh seafood. You can find great fish options in Boston as well as in many of Massachusett’s coastal towns. However, Massachusetts also has thriving American, Italian, Asian, and more food scenes. And of course, you can’t miss the many breweries in Massachusetts!
Here are some of the best restaurants in Massachusetts that you definitely want to include on your food tour.
21. Oleana
Located in Cambridge, Oleana offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Standout dishes include the lamb skewers and the baked farm eggs with feta cheese.
Oleana is a hopping restaurant in Cambridge for a reason! It’s popular with grad students and has a really cool, eclectic indoor area as well as a super cute outdoor garden where you can eat during the warmer months. Serious foodies won’t want to miss Oleana for the flavors alone.
Location: Cambridge (Boston)
Click here to check out the reviews.
20. Neptune Oyster
This small seafood restaurant in Boston’s North End is known for its delicious lobster rolls and oysters. Be prepared for a wait, as this popular spot fills up quickly. But don’t worry, it’s worth it!
This is some of the freshest fish around and is a must-hit if you’re in the city but want to experience some of Massachusett’s classic seafood. It’s definitely one of the best restaurants in Massachusetts during the summer months and is centrally located.
Location: Boston (North End)
Click here to check out the reviews.
19. Craigie on Main
This upscale Cambridge restaurant offers a French-inspired menu with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The roasted chicken for two is a must-try dish. The burger is absolutely worth the buzz, and its ever-evolving menu brings an impressive array of flavorsome ingredients together in eye-catching presentations.
If you’re looking for top-of-the-line French food and gourmet cocktails, Craigie on Main is your place. But expect to spend money proportional to the food you get!
Location: Cambridge (Boston)
Click here to check out the reviews.
18. The Red Lion Inn
Located in Stockbridge, the Red Lion Inn is a historic hotel with a farm-to-table restaurant that serves classic New England fare. The lobster mac and cheese and the Berkshire pork chop are popular dishes.
This spot is great for a cozy, romantic dinner and has a wonderfully curated wine list. Plus, it’s in one of the cutest small towns in Massachusetts, making it a great stop during a romantic vacation. We especially love visiting the Red Lion Inn during the winter because it’s just so cozy!
Location: Stockbridge (Western Massachusetts)
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17. The Bancroft
Located in Burlington Massachusetts, The Bancroft is one of the most well-known steakhouses for a reason. Their USDA prime steaks are cooked to perfection and the sides are all made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Bancroft is also known for their extensive wine selection and classic cocktails, making it perfect for a special occasion. Even if you’re not into steak, there are plenty of other delicious options like seafood and salads.
If you’re looking for an upscale experience then the Bancroft is one of the best restaurants in Massachusetts.
Location: Burlington (just outside of Boston)
Click here to check out the reviews.
16. Island Creek Oyster Bar
This Boston restaurant serves up fresh seafood, including oysters from the Island Creek Oyster Farm in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Don’t miss the lobster roe noodles.
Island Creek Oyster Bar is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner as it’s well-priced and the seafood is top-notch. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, making it perfect for a lunch date or an after-work bite with friends. We recommend visiting during the summer since Duxbury is full of beautiful beaches.
Location: Duxbury (South Shore)
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15. Row 34
Another great seafood spot in Boston, Row 34 offers a variety of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, as well as an extensive beer and wine list. Some of the standout dishes are their clam chowder and lobster rolls.
If you love seafood and craft beers, this is definitely a must-stop spot during your foodie tour in Massachusetts. The atmosphere here is casual yet chic – perfect for a laid-back evening with friends! However, keep in mind that Row 34 pretty much only serves seafood, so you’ll want to make sure your group includes some seafood lovers.
Location: Boston (Seaport)
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14. Clio
This modern French restaurant in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood offers innovative dishes like duck with smoked peanut butter and lamb with charred eggplant. Clio is a great option for an upscale dinner and its chic atmosphere makes it perfect for a date night.
The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to pair your meal with some delicious vino! If you’re looking for something even more special, try one of their prix fixe tasting menus. Clio will definitely impress even the most discerning of foodies.
Location: Boston (Back Bay)
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13. Sarma
Located in Somerville, Sarma offers a creative menu of Mediterranean-inspired small plates, such as fried cauliflower with tahini and lamb meatballs with tomato sauce. This is the perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends.
The atmosphere here is cozy and inviting, and you can often find live music performances in the evenings. Be sure to come hungry – their menu is designed for sharing! And don’t forget to check out their extensive list of Mediterranean wines and craft cocktails.
Location: Somerville (just outside of Boston)
Click here to check out the reviews.
12. Uni
This Boston sushi restaurant offers an extensive menu of creative sushi rolls and Japanese small plates. The uni spoon with quail egg and caviar is a must-try dish.
Uni is perfect for a special evening out, with its chic atmosphere and well-curated wine list. The prices here are also quite reasonable considering the quality of the food. However, keep in mind that this spot can get quite busy during peak hours, so be sure to make reservations ahead of time if you’re planning on visiting.
Location: Boston
Click here to check out the reviews.
11. Tasting Counter
Located in Somerville, Tasting Counter offers a unique dining experience with a tasting menu of innovative dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. This restaurant is perfect for a special occasion, as the food here is truly top-notch.
The atmosphere here is sophisticated and intimate – perfect for a romantic evening out. The tasting menu is also quite reasonably priced, making it an affordable option for a high-end night out.
Location: Somerville (just outside of Boston)
Click here to check out the reviews.
10. The Lobster Pot
This Provincetown classic serves up some of the freshest seafood around. The restaurant is known for its lobster roll, but we recommend trying other dishes like the fish tacos and steamers as well. This is seriously one of the best restaurants in Massachusetts for a reason!
The Lobster Pot is a casual spot, perfect for relaxed afternoons spent with friends on the waterfront. The atmosphere here is cozy and the prices are quite reasonable for the quality of food you get. Plus, it’s located right on the edge of Provincetown Harbor, so you can take in the beautiful views while enjoying your meal. This is a must-visit if you’re on the Cape and want to experience true Massachusetts seafood!
Location: Provincetown (Cape Cod)
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9. Chatham Bars Inn
This ocean-side resort in Chatham offers up some of the best seafood around. From their freshly-shucked oysters to their classic fish and chips, you won’t be disappointed here.
Chatham Bars Inn is a great spot for a romantic dinner out, with its elegant atmosphere and attentive staff. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, so be sure to take advantage of it. And don’t forget to save room for dessert!
While the Chatham Bars Inn is a little on the pricey side, you’re basically in prepster heaven. Expect the best of the best, from fresh seafood to impeccable service and gorgeous, classic Chatham views of the water and grounds. This is definitely one of the top restaurants in Massachusetts if you want to feel like you’re from an old New England bloodline!
Location: Chatham (Cape Cod)
Click here to check out the reviews.
8. Spoke Wine Bar
Do you gravitate towards a lighter meal, or prefer to sample many unique flavors? If so, Spoke Wine Bar in Boston is an excellent option for you! With its array of small plates and variety of dishes from which to choose from, it’s the perfect place for those who enjoy savoring multiple tastes.
This restaurant is committed to providing diners with only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Its small plates menu reflects this commitment and changes seasonally to ensure customers always have something new and exciting to try. With a limited capacity, it’s best you reserve ahead of time so as not to miss out on an unforgettable culinary experience!
Location: Boston
Click here to check out the reviews.
7. Nightshade Noodle Bar
Embrace the diverse culture of Boston by exploring the myriad of Asian restaurants in the area. Treat your taste buds to Vietnamese-inspired dishes at Nightshade Noodle Bar, or sample traditional Chinese delicacies – there’s something for everyone! With such a colorful array of culinary options, you’ll never be bored when it comes to dining out in this vibrant city.
Under the masterful direction of Chef-owner Rachel Miller, this restaurant began as a pop-up and has demonstrated remarkable growth since it opened in 2019. Though noodles are its specialty, customers will find much more than just your typical noodle bar here!
The culinary team at this eatery has created a menu of extraordinary dishes, from hand-pulled noodles tucked inside sea urchins and soaking in flavorful broths to foie gras served with coconut rice, lobster flavored with vanilla, and an array of seafood entrees.
Location: Boston
Click here to check out the reviews.
6. Skipper Chowder House
Seafood aficionados, if you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Massachusetts, be sure to check out the Skipper Chowder House. Although it’s far from a formal restaurant setting, this casual joint offers some of the most scrumptious seafood around!
From succulent lobster rolls and fresh cod fillet to fish sandwiches with tartare sauce and calamari – your taste buds will thank you! The best part? It won’t break your wallet either. This is one of the best restaurants in Massachusetts to eat super fresh seafood on a budget.
Location: South Yarmouth (Cape Cod)
Click here to check out the reviews.
5. The Alvah Stone
Step back in time at The Alvah Stone restaurant, situated inside the timeless 1834 book mill along the Sawmill River in Montague. This spectacular farm-to-table eatery boasts a breathtaking atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
From seasonal dishes crafted using only fresh ingredients to modern American fare that will make your taste buds go wild – this rustic spot has it all! Let yourself be charmed by history and flavor when you visit The Alvah Stone.
4. Mariel
Step inside the old bank building in Boston’s Financial District and be taken away to a place of beauty and elegance. Mariel, newly opened this past year, is more than just talk–it’s an experience!
With 23-foot ceilings and sparkling chandeliers, the grandeur of this restaurant will astound you. But don’t forget about their exquisite cuisine; we highly recommend trying out one of their delectable street pizzas!
Location: Boston (Financial District)
Click here to check out the reviews.
3. Ledger
Complete your foodie tour of Massachusetts with a visit to Ledger in Salem. Here, you’ll find fresh seafood, house-made pastas, and other creative Italian dishes!
The restaurant’s talented chefs prepare everything from scratch using only the finest ingredients that provide diners with an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple yet flavorful bruschetta or a hearty seafood risotto, Ledger has something to satisfy every appetite!
Plus, the atmosphere inside Ledger is just so cool. It’s set in an old bank right in downtown Salem and the decor really plays up the Harry Potter Gringotts vibe. While there are so many great restaurants in Salem, Ledger is certainly one of our favorites!
Location: Salem (North Shore)
Click here to check out the reviews.
2. Bar Taco
Located in Seaport, Bar Taco is a great place to stop on your foodie tour of Massachusetts. This restaurant offers up Mexican-inspired dishes in the most delicious way possible, including tacos, ceviche, and other small plates!
The atmosphere is lively and fun – perfect for an after-work gathering or a romantic dinner for two. The warm lighting and cozy seating make this the ideal spot for sharing a few drinks and some of Bar Taco’s signature dishes. And seriously: the fish tacos cannot be beaten! They’re just insanely fresh and delicious.
Location: Boston (Seaport)
Click here to check out the reviews.
1. Gibbet Hill Grill
Located in Groton, Gibbet Hill Grill is the perfect place to end your tour of Massachusetts’ best restaurants. This beloved spot serves up classic comfort food with a modern twist, from steak and seafood entrees to inventive sides and cocktails. Plus it’s located on a working farm. How cool is that?!
Gibbet Hill Grill puts the farm-to-fork experience at the forefront, so guests can bask in the beauty of their 500 acre farmland while they dine. The restaurant has an old-world charm with exposed wooden beams and cozy booths – making it feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Location: Groton (Central MA)
Click here to check out the reviews.
So there you have it – the ultimate foodie tour of Massachusetts! From succulent seafood dishes to Mexican-inspired treats and classic comfort food, these 30+ best restaurants in Massachusetts have something for everyone.
So don’t wait any longer; start exploring the culinary delights that this beautiful state has to offer!
