10 Best Restaurants in Boston

From innovative interpretations of global cuisines to classic American fare, the restaurants in Boston, Mass., contribute significantly to the city's vibrant character. Whether one seeks a casual bite or a refined gastronomic journey, the city's establishments provide compelling options.

The dining scene in Boston is constantly evolving, with chefs and restaurateurs continuously introducing new concepts and elevating existing ones. Many restaurants prioritize fresh, often locally sourced ingredients, reflecting a commitment to quality and sustainability. Exploring the various dining districts reveals unique ambiances and specialties, ensuring that every meal out can be an adventure for residents and visitors alike.

Sarma, located in Somerville, a short distance from central Boston, offers a unique take on Turkish meyhane culture. This restaurant specializes in a wide array of small plates, known as meze, designed for sharing. The menu encourages an interactive dining experience, where guests can sample specialties like cornbread, duck, and more Middle Eastern dishes. The beverage program complements the food with food-friendly cocktails, craft beers, and a carefully selected wine list. Altogether, Sarma is a distinctive and popular choice among restaurants in Boston MA.

Zuma Boston brings a contemporary Japanese dining experience to the city's Back Bay neighborhood. Situated within the Four Seasons Hotel, One Dalton Street, this establishment offers an internationally recognized style of Japanese cuisine. The dining room provides views of three open kitchens, including a principal kitchen, sushi counter, and robata grill. The menu at Zuma features signature dishes such as black cod marinated in saikyo miso, spicy beef tenderloin, and various sushi and sashimi preparations. The robata counter is a focal point, allowing diners to observe chefs preparing dishes over Japanese charcoal.

Lone Star Taco Bar (locations in Cambridge and Allston) emphasizes flavorful tacos and a strong beverage program. Beyond the diverse taco offerings, which include unique options like mushroom asada and grilled avocado, Lone Star Taco Bar provides an extensive drink menu. Margaritas and Palomas are frequently recommended, alongside a notable selection of mezcal. The restaurant also features a welcoming patio area, allowing guests to enjoy their meals outdoors in a pleasant setting.

Folio, a bistro located within the Boston Athenaeum, offers an unexpected dining experience that extends the intellectual ambiance of the institution. This establishment provides a European-inspired setting where patrons can enjoy made-to-order shareable plates. The menu at Folio features sophisticated bites designed to pair with craft cocktails and a curated selection of new and old-world wines. Try favorites like the focaccia, Spanish omelette, or burrata dishes.

Noah’s Kitchen in Boston reimagines traditional Sichuan cuisine through modern techniques and presentation — an unforgettable dining experience that reflects its heritage. The menu features various Sichuan specialties, including appetizers, hot and cold plates, and meat and vegetarian options. Dishes often incorporate bold spices and distinct flavors; the dan dan noodles, mapo tofu, and kung pao chicken showcase the depth of Sichuan culinary traditions. Noah's Kitchen emphasizes the artistry of its dishes, appealing to those seeking an elevated and authentic Chinese dining experience.

Jadu, a cafe in Jamaica Plain, offers a selection of coffee and tea and a menu that includes vegan options. Guests rave about the toast, breakfast sandwich, and Turkish eggs. It’s a busier neighborhood spot yet also a comfortable setting for a morning coffee or a light meal. They offer non-dairy milks for their coffee and espresso drinks. Jadu also plans to expand into evening wine bar service, suggesting an evolving role as a community gathering place.

Josephine, located in Somerville, is an Italian restaurant concept from Chef Michael Scelfo. The restaurant celebrates family and food through simple pleasures in a lively space. It offers both deep dish and thin wood-fired pizzas, alongside whimsical interpretations of classic Italian dishes. A notable feature of Josephine is its massive marble bar, serving craft cocktails and ice-cold martinis on tap. The restaurant also boasts a significant outdoor space that is pet-friendly, complete with an outdoor bar and a fire pit, encouraging a relaxed and social atmosphere.

Birds of Paradise, located in Brighton at Charles River Speedway, offers a unique cocktail experience within an intimate bar setting. The concept revolves around combining influences from various global destinations into their drinks, creating innovative flavor combinations. While primarily a cocktail bar, Birds of Paradise previously offered hand rolls, providing a light food option to complement the drinks. The bar focuses on handcrafted cocktails that transport patrons through creative pairings and presentations.

The Sea Hag Restaurant and Bar in Cambridge offers a diverse menu inspired by coastal flavors from around the world, alongside American pub standards. The restaurant focuses on seasonal ingredients, including fresh local seafood and locally raised grass-fed beef. It cultivates a cozy, art-filled space that blends familiar elements with an almost otherworldly charm. The menu at The Sea Hag includes curry, scallops, and mushroom risotto. They also feature house-made small-batch ice cream for dessert.

Maguro Sushi Thai Ramen offers a fusion of Japanese and Thai cuisine, providing a diverse menu that includes sushi, ramen, and a selection of Thai dishes. The restaurant typically operates with extended hours, accommodating lunch and dinner crowds. Patrons can choose from classic sushi rolls, flavorful ramen bowls, or traditional Thai curries and noodle dishes. Maguro focuses on delivering a straightforward dining experience with consistent quality in its dual-cuisine approach.

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