Boston’s dining scene is a culinary melting pot, home to world-class cuisines ranging from classic New England seafood to global fare. While visitors might think first of lobster rolls or North End pasta, the city’s restaurants span fine dining temples, casual local hangouts, off-the-beaten-path gems, and a spectrum of international cuisines. Below is a curated list of Boston’s best eateries in each category, highlighting their cuisine, price range, and must-try features—each highly rated by critics and diners alike.
Fine Dining
For special occasions and gourmet experiences, Boston offers an array of upscale restaurants known for exquisite food, ambiance, and service.
O Ya – Japanese (Sushi/Omakase), $$$$
An intimate 20-course omakase experience set in a historic firehouse, O Ya is a bucket-list destination for sushi lovers. Each bite is a miniature masterpiece, from a fried Kumamoto oyster topped with squid-ink foam to Wagyu beef skewers finished with yuzu kosho and maple soy. Regularly named among Boston’s best, O Ya’s tasting menu offers a refined, celebratory experience.
Contessa – Italian, $$$
A glamorous rooftop Italian restaurant perched atop the Newbury Hotel, Contessa delivers upscale fare with old-world flair. Signature plates include spicy lobster capellini brimming with chunks of lobster and plump tortellini filled with sweet peas, exemplifying its elegant take on classic pasta dishes. The restaurant exudes swanky European vibes and offers breathtaking penthouse views of Back Bay, making it one of Boston’s most coveted reservations.
Mooncusser – Seafood (Contemporary), $$$
A modern seafood restaurant offering a chef’s-choice four-course prix fixe menu, Mooncusser pushes creative boundaries in seafood cuisine. Elegant dishes range from refined cod-cheek pozole to marinated hiramasa (amberjack) served in a tangy pomegranate broth. The chic, window-lined dining room and optional wine pairings create a relaxed yet refined fine-dining experience perfect for seafood lovers.
Casual Spots
For a more laid-back meal, Boston is filled with casual spots that deliver top-notch food without the formality.
Neptune Oyster – Seafood, $$
A tiny North End raw bar legendary for its lobster roll, Neptune Oyster continues to draw lines of eager diners nearly two decades after opening. The generous hot lobster roll, served drenched in butter on a toasted brioche, overflows with tender lobster meat. For those who prefer a different style, the mayo-dressed cold version is also available. Aside from the famous lobster rolls, Neptune offers an excellent raw bar and seafood specials, making it a must-visit for a classic Boston seafood experience.
Myers + Chang – Asian Fusion, $$
A funky Asian-inspired diner in the South End, co-owned by James Beard Award-winning chef Joanne Chang, Myers + Chang is a hip eatery that fuses Taiwanese, Thai, Chinese, and Vietnamese flavors. The menu is perfect for sharing, featuring addictive dim sum, dumplings, pillowy bao buns, and wok-charred noodles. The lively and casual atmosphere makes it a go-to for everything from group dinners to a popular weekend dim sum brunch.
Regina Pizzeria – Italian (Pizzeria), $
Boston’s original pizzeria, established in 1926, serves legendary brick-oven pizzas in a no-frills North End storefront. Regina’s pies are famous for their perfectly chewy thin crust, tangy spiced sauce, and blend of salty cheeses—a formula so beloved that it has been ranked among the top pizzerias in the country. Expect a line at peak times, but the payoff is an old-school, family-friendly atmosphere and what many call the best pizza in Boston.
Hidden Gems
These lesser-known or tucked-away eateries may not have the tourist crowds, but they boast rave reviews for their unique flavors and homey charm.
Tawakal Halal Cafe – Somali, $
A tiny, family-run East Boston gem, Tawakal Halal Cafe serves authentic Somali home cooking with warm hospitality. The menu specialties include fragrant lamb biryani, crispy beef or vegetable sambusas, and handmade chapati flatbread to scoop up rich stews. The restaurant has gained a loyal following, even earning recognition as a Bon Appétit “Best New Restaurant” finalist. Its cozy atmosphere and boldly spiced dishes make it a standout for adventurous eaters.
Gene’s Chinese Flatbread Café – Chinese (Shaanxi), $
A no-frills hole-in-the-wall downtown, Gene’s Chinese Flatbread Café specializes in northwestern Chinese street food, particularly its hand-pulled biang biang noodles. The must-try item is the #4 noodle bowl: chewy wide noodles slicked with chili oil, garlic, cilantro, and cumin-spiced lamb. Portions are hearty and prices are ultra-affordable, giving Gene’s a cult following as a true hidden gem for a quick, spicy lunch.
Diverse Cuisines
Boston’s vibrant food culture shines in restaurants that highlight international cuisines, from innovative Greek to modern Thai to Latin American fare.
Bar Vlaha – Greek, $$$
An acclaimed Brookline restaurant showcasing the rustic regional cuisine of Greece’s nomadic Vlach people, Bar Vlaha features hard-to-find specialties like slow-roasted lamb leg, charcoal-grilled freshwater fish, and flaky savory pies. Dishes are meant to be shared family-style, creating a lively and celebratory dining experience. With its open kitchen, complete with meat turning on a spit, Bar Vlaha has quickly become a favorite among Boston’s food lovers.
Mahaniyom – Thai (Contemporary), $$$
A stylish Brookline Village spot that elevates Thai cuisine into a date-night experience, Mahaniyom swaps the usual takeout classics for an inventive small-plates menu and craft cocktails. The menu showcases regional Thai flavors, from spicy northeastern dishes to Bangkok-inspired street eats. A chic, neon-accented space pairs beautifully with its bold flavors, making Mahaniyom a must-visit for lovers of modern Thai food.
La Royal – Peruvian, $$
A lively Cambridge restaurant that feels like a Peruvian dinner party, La Royal features a neon-lit pisco bar and vibrant music in the air. Husband-and-wife team JuanMa Calderón and Maria Rondeau offer a menu of soulful Peruvian dishes, including sweet, citrusy ceviche served in elegant stemmed glasses and whole branzino wrapped in plantain leaves for a show-stopping entrée. The restaurant has garnered national attention for its authentic flavors and warm hospitality, solidifying its place among Boston’s best new dining spots.
A City for Every Palate
Each of these restaurants embodies what makes Boston’s food scene special: quality and creativity across price points and cultures. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious multi-course feast, a casual lobster roll, a secret noodle shop, or a culinary trip around the world, Boston has a top-rated spot to satisfy every craving. Enjoy your meal!
Elevate Your Real Estate Experience with Michael Carucci
Looking for unparalleled expertise in Boston’s luxury real estate market? Michael Carucci brings decades of experience, market insight, and a personalized approach to help you find or sell your dream property. Whether you're searching for an elegant Back Bay townhouse, a waterfront penthouse, or a historic brownstone, Michael’s dedication and industry connections ensure a seamless transaction. Experience luxury real estate at its finest—contact Michael Carucci today to take the next step in your real estate journey.
