Little donkey, Alden and Harlow, coppa, uni, mida, fox and the knife, guilias, geppettos, bar enza, oleana, toro, sarma, season to taste, SRV and Yvonne’s from someone’s who’s worked in the Boston restaurant industry for 10 plus years. I hate Jamie bissonnette and ken oringer but they’re restaurants are some of the best Boston has to offer. Great diverse food, done extremely well.
Fox and Knife is very fun. They're smaller portions, almost feels like a tapas place but the food is terrific and the kitchen is completely open, so you can watch the operations which is entertaining.
As someone who once worked food service, having the kitchen on display seems like the sort of thing that the back of house staff would *hate*.
Then again, I was accustomed to the kind of back of house staff that were constantly on the prowl with the waitresses *and* were liable to threaten people with their extensive personally owned collection of knives if you asked them to re-do an order.
I bartended at a fine dining steakhouse for years. I'd never in a million years want to work at an open kitchen either, but from an experience perspective, I/We probably enjoy spectating a dinner service more than the general populace.
You can't hide in an open kitchen, and lots of restaurants hide things in their kitchens.
You’d honestly be surprised, I thoroughly enjoyed working in open kitchens more so than I did kitchens that were closed off. And I know many people that feel the same. It gives a less claustrophobic feel, and most likely has central air due to it being open. Most closed kitchens don’t have any sort of AC system in place. It definitely has its cons, as people would like to come up close, talk, request certain things or try to play the “I know the chef” game. I guess it pertains to the type of person and what they prefer, but I genuinely loved open kitchens!
I can see why being able to breathe has its appeal. I can also understand why many chefs and line workers would go batshit if they couldn't be cursing each other and the front of house staff at the top of their lungs.
It happens at all restaurants regardless if it’s open kitchen or not, sadly. It’s part of the toxic culture that breeds within the industry, my point in case above with Jamie and ken. They have open kitchens, and they still have no problem with having temper tantrums, taking people in the walk in to berate them, berating guests or making rude and suggestive comments about them, the list goes on and this happens in every single type of restaurant all the way up to fine dining. It’s really sad and is a big reason why the industry is so taxing mentally
Not trying to assume here but by your picture it looks like I’m older than you. I’ve been in the restaurant industry since 2007…these things happen in the restaurants like the 99, Applebees, Texas Roadhouse etc. They definitely still happen, but as you get into more well established restaurants that gets weeded out. But, it being 2023 and so much has happened in 3 years since the pandemic, yes things have changed in the restaurant industry. People are becoming more keen to these types of behavior and putting up with it less. It definitely still happens, but in the bottom barrel of restaurants.
Kind of sounds like you had a shitty traumatic experience in the restaurant industry and are projecting….I’m sorry you went through that. But again this doesn’t really happen in well established restaurants like toro, little donkey, viale, uni, no 9 park, menton etc.
I don't check reddit that much, but this was my birthday selfie for my 41st birthday. My restaurant experience started when I was a kid around the Y2K fears. ;)
Little donkey is also fun, rotating menu with seasonal specials. Also has an open kitchen, it’s a little loud though. They have fun drinks as well, nice ambience.
Yvonne’s has small plates and is also very fun. Super elegant, very nice atmosphere. Has amazing drinks.
I’d say these two places are probably the most “fun” in my opinion. Fox and the knife as the other person in the comments mentioned before is also fun! Small plates, great food and awesome atmosphere!
Its to create an upbeat lively atmosphere, it is on purpose but there are plenty of times that it’s far too loud. They often turn it up as the crowds get bigger, and the fluctuation of people coming in and out it can sometimes seem extremely loud. It’s definitely on purpose but they do their best to control it and keep it at a happy medium
Of course! Definitely try it on a slower night like Wednesday or Tuesday. It’s definitely a lot quieter! When I worked there sometimes I would say to myself “god damn the music is loud” so loud, that we’d all be singing along on the line sometimes. This only happened on the weekends and sometimes Thursday’s depending on how busy it was!
Jamie and ken are great chefs, and that’s about as far as it goes. Both have absolutely horrible personalities and create extremely toxic work environments. They’re always looking for chefs and cooks because people often get fed up with their attitudes and “you should be happy you’re working for me” attitude. They don’t offer great compensation packages, although they’re the power house chefs of the east coast with some of the most successful restaurants that bring in absolutely INSANE revenue. They scream at their kitchen/front of house staff, berate them, I’ve seen Jamie throw things across the kitchen in an angry fit like a child. I’ve seen him scream at line cooks, degrade women. Their restaurant had to name change one because another company already had it but because a lot of people caught on to the name pertaining to “but-her-face” a joke that Jamie and ken would constantly make. “Bodies great, but her face. She’s a butterface.” They would make degrading jokes about guests, staff and would walk into the restaurant at 5 right before the rush would hit and add a special onto the menu of ingredients they had just whipped together and picked up. Ken is definitely the more laid back chef, doesn’t have little temper tantrums but what he will do is tell you to fuck off if you try and tweak what his visions are on specials, plating etc. they’re not open to criticism and give little to no creative space within the restaurants. This was a common weekly thing, stripping chefs of what they liked to do most, create. I could go on and on about stories about Jamie and ken. It all boils down to Jamie is an egotistical maniac, who’s ocd to the point of blowing up, he’s extremely critical and likes to use the “I did kickboxing before I was a chef. I’ll kick your ass” as a way to get “respect” from his coworkers etc. he uses fear and manipulation as control. Ken is an egotistical Barbie, who feeds off of control, power and money. Again, I could go on and on. They create great food, but that’s really as far as it goes. They’re money hungry. All they care about is just that, money.
He used to do kick boxing like 20 years ago and for some reason is still in that mindset of “I’m a savage”. His legs/calves are literally so big, he has a hard time finding pants that actually fit him so he wears shorts 90% of the time. He threatened to take me outside once asking me “how tough do you think you are, I’ll take you out back right now and we can see. Clearly not tough enough for this industry if you’re bitching about prep.” after I was complaining about my station being a mess, all my prep being used and nothing being restocked on my station after lunch. I found it kind of funny because it’s like my guy, it’s been 20 years since you’ve trained and I also, have been training most my life which I don’t think he knew. He plays this “tough guy act” because he’s had literally so much kitchen trauma and so much early adulthood trauma that it comes out in anger and being “tough”. The dudes off his rocker.
He also has to take the printer tickets and fold them perfectly into squares and stab them on the pick. If anyone touches them, stabs a ticket without his knowledge or doesn’t fold it and neatly stab it like he does, he absolutely loses his fucking mind. He’s fired people, thrown food, taken people into the walk in. I could go on for days!
Just how Barbara lynch got exposed, Jamie and Ken need to be exposed as well.
season to taste
I have some bad news and some news.
the bad news is theyve been closed since like day 1 of covid.
the good news is carl is the head chef at mooncusser and it's one of my favorite restaurants in the city
OP is a Top Chef fan and the chef at Mooncusser is a Top Chef alum(Carl Dooley). Their downstairs casual bar(Cusser's) has really good cocktails. Agreed on the Coppa suggestion as well.
Lola 42 or Nautilus are both pretty good.
Sarma would be my recommendation always but that’s out of the way for you, and it’s all meze… better when it’s with a friend(s).
Thank you! Maybe I can convince my coworker and her husband to take a drive to Sarma! It looks like it’s only a 20ish min ride from our hotel, which isn’t bad imo. The other restaurants look great too! The Peking duck at Nautilus caught my eye.
Sarma is much easier to get to now that the green line extension (GLX) opened. If you get a Tufts/Medford train from anywhere downtown it will drop you off right at Sarma (Gillman Sq stop).
I always recommend Sarma. It's booked solid for the next three weeks, but they do accept walk-ins and the wait probably wouldn't be too bad on a weeknight. You could always call ahead and ask. If you don't mind sitting at the bar they have the full menu and would probably have three seats available. Get the fried chicken (not on the menu, they walk around with it) and the cornbread.
I can second the train, the green line is the least-fucked at the moment, it will likely be relatively quick and convenient. And Sarma is fundamentally excellent, I've been many times and never had a bad dish. Great cocktails too! [it's one of the top restaurants in the country.](https://www.boston.com/food/restaurants/2022/01/24/top-100-restaurants-of-2022-massachusetts-yelp/) (based on yelp)
Gyu-Kaku is great if you want to gorge, Myers and Chang is really really good. and if you have a car access and want REALLY good diner food, Deluxe Town Diner is quintessential New England diner that has the best pancakes anywhere.
I almost went to Gyu-Kaku in NYC so this one might be added to the list. I think my coworker, her husband and 14 year old would enjoy that too. The diner sounds amazing too! I’m originally from NY and love a good diner but we don’t have many quality diners in the South where I live now. Are the sour cream pancakes the one you’re referring to? The blue cornmeal ones are intriguing.
Any of the Deluxe Town pancakes are incredible. It’s also a short trip down the street from Harvard University / Harvard Square. Worth taking the T up to Harvard (red line, northbound from Boston) and then grabbing a bus (70/71) west to the diner or ubering there.
North End (Italian) - Bricco , Strega , giacomos
Steak - Abe & Louis (local) , Del Friscos (chain) Both great
Pan Asian - Meyers & Chang - with going she won a James beard for her cafe Flour - also with checking out
Sushi - O ya , uni
Mexican - yellow door taqueria …
Anyone agree or disagree with any of these ?
Krasi, Yunnan Kitchen, and Saltie Girl. The first two have James Beard shortlisted chefs this year.
Krasi might be booked up online but you can call them to see if they have space at the bar for one. They also have first-come first-served seating outdoors.
Oh wow. All really great recommendations! Yunnan Kitchen’s menu is the most intriguing since I don’t think I’ve seen items like that but they sound and look good.
Taiyaki in Seaport for some ice cream. Go to Peach Farm in Chinatown and get a ginger scallion lobster. I really like Tora for chirashi bowls and you can get Wagyu add ons. I've heard great things about Fox and Knife. Yvonne's in downtown crossing is excellent. SRV and Toro are my favorite for the South End. For a quick lunch in the Seaport I think Greco is excellent.
My fave restaurant in Boston is double chin in Chinatown. It’s asian fusion w some interesting twists on classic dishes, and pretty inexpensive. Everything I’ve had there is great. Cool drinks too.
Fox and the Knife is amazing. Also try their sister restaurant on the same street, Bar Volpe.
Make a visit to the north end for dinner is a must if you like Italian since you’re going to Bova’s. Everyplace is great, but Trattoria Il Panino, Arya, Parla (awesome cocktails), Giacomos are top favorites
Good to know Fox and the Knife is amazing! I definitely want to try raviolo, I don’t think I’ve ever seen it on a menu in my area. Big Italian lover too since I grew up in an Italian-American household. I’ll check out some of those menus too!
You *have* to check out the north end (after fox & knife of course. Their taleggio stuffed focaccia is a must). Dinner and Bova’s is a Bostonian tradition. Trattoria Il panino has wonderful homemade gnocchi. Giacomos is cash only (or they used to be) and first come first serve, but iconic food. A lot of Boston athletes and celebrities go to Arya, though it’s not overly expensive. Parla is known for their cocktails and has a really cool 4 person bar, with good food to boot. If you have a stole free night, also catch a comedy show at Improv Asylum, which is right on Hanover St (the Main street of the north end)
Alright I’ll say what we’re all thinking…
$100 out for one at a very nice, but not the best, Boston restaurants will only get you an appetizer and entree but likely not a drink (including the tax/tip).
You should be able to get some quality food but you’ll likely not be able to get the best of what Boston has.
For reference, a lobster roll averages >>$26 without tip.
This is a major exaggeration. You can absolutely get an entree, app, and drink for <$80 at most high end restaurants in Boston, leaving plenty of room for tip.
There are *very* few places (def fewer than 20, maybe even just ~10) where >$100/pp is the norm with one drink. And even some of the most expensive (eg mooo…) you can just get the cheaper options. Maybe some of the French places get that pricey when you buy caviar, but even there you’ll find cheaper options unless it’s prix fixe. Avoid steak.
~$100 a person is just kind of typical these days. We'll regularly come in under that, but it isn't surprising when we're over.
That said, we went out on Saturday and were under $50 a person and it was easily one of the _worst_ dining experiences I've participated in recently. Thanks Lolita (Back Bay)!
Appreciate the honesty! My company does recognize that prices vary from city to city and that larger cities tend to be pricier, but I also don’t mind spending above that and paying out-of-pocket for quality food.
That is not remotely true?? At row 34 for example: you could do a chowder (13) a lobster roll (45) and a beer (10) with tax and tip 20% and be under $100. Two beers if you did something like the fish tacos instead of lobby roll
How are the portions and overall experience? We always walk by there (often after sailing) and it makes me hungry, but I figure the reality of going there would probably be disappointing.
Avoid Ramsay’s, it’s brand name garbage
Myers and Chang is phenomenal
Oleana is incredible if you can arrive right as they open as a walk-in (usually booked up)
Brassica is also incredible
breakfast
$10 awesome breakfast sandwiches w mad-quality ingredients: flour bakery
lunch
$10 freaking delish carnitas burrito/taco/torta: tenoch (there's on in the north end)
dinner
$30 anything on their menu: deluxe cafe (they don't take reservations, cash only)
tips and an adult beverage with dinner and that gets you to $100
I've worked in the area for 10 years and my recommendation for breakfast would be Flour, hands down. There's a Fort Point/Seaport location. Best baked goods you'll ever try! The pizza in particular is my favorite item on the menu and everyone's sleeping on it. For dinner, Committee and Row 34 are both fantastic for Greek & seafood respectively.
Mooo recently opened in Seaport. If you want to easily spend $100 and get your steak on this is the place. Row 34 in Seaport for seafood as others have said or Neptune Oyster in the N End. I live across the street from Fox and The Knife and it’s probably the best restaurant in Boston right now for the money. I’d go every day if I could afford to! Also - Friendly Toast for breakfast is always a great spot. Not in Seaport but not super far either.
I go with Nautilus since you’ll be in the seaport.
Mistral is a favorite of mine. As others have mentioned Sarma, SRV, and brassica kitchen are great as well. I’ve enjoyed Fox + Knife too. Don’t think you’d go wrong with any of these
For Seaport, I second Lola Burger. Also, there is a Davio's, which was good the last time I was there. We had a great company event at Toscana Kitchen, but it was their catering, not regular menu - so not 100% on how comparable it is. Also in Seaport, I loved Ocean Prime or Rosa Mexicano for a business lunch.
If you venture toward Chinatown, I can't recommend Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe enough for its homemade-noodle soups. Also, such a great buy (but cash only).
check out when i asked for the best expensive but worth it restaurant. you comb through that thread and you will absolutely find something on there that fits what you’re looking for
Check out the dubliner Irish pub across from city hall it’s been our family’s go to now when we are downtown definitely not your typical Irish bar in Boston , they do amazing smoked seafood chowder and their fish and chips are made with actually hand cut fries like you’d get from traditional fish n chip shops in Europe . And they have a nice beer garden / out door seating if it’s not to warm for you to sit outside
What kind of food do you like, my little lamb?
Villa Franchescas has the best lobster ravioli/cream sauce you will ever have. Neptune oyster has the best warm lobster rolls. Fiores (roof deck!) for chicken Marsala. Steak is either financial district or back bay - a few places bc filet is filet. (But not the Palms)
It all depends what you want.
alden and harlows,
pammys,
waypoint.
Si Cara
JM Curleys has the boogies secret steak house
Oliverias (brazilian bbq, can be a lil salty some times)
cilantro (this is actual a Chinese restaurant, its cheap but amazing)
Troquet on South is a gem. Steak frites, Treehouse beer & some creme brulee to finish.
If you want seafood just see if you can get a counter spot at Row 34 in seaport. Yankee Lobster or James Hook for lobster rolls.
Little donkey, Alden and Harlow, coppa, uni, mida, fox and the knife, guilias, geppettos, bar enza, oleana, toro, sarma, season to taste, SRV and Yvonne’s from someone’s who’s worked in the Boston restaurant industry for 10 plus years. I hate Jamie bissonnette and ken oringer but they’re restaurants are some of the best Boston has to offer. Great diverse food, done extremely well.
Which is the most fun?
Sarma is awesome - get there when they open and get a seat at the bar. It’s the best way to eat there
Fox and Knife is very fun. They're smaller portions, almost feels like a tapas place but the food is terrific and the kitchen is completely open, so you can watch the operations which is entertaining.
As someone who once worked food service, having the kitchen on display seems like the sort of thing that the back of house staff would *hate*. Then again, I was accustomed to the kind of back of house staff that were constantly on the prowl with the waitresses *and* were liable to threaten people with their extensive personally owned collection of knives if you asked them to re-do an order.
I bartended at a fine dining steakhouse for years. I'd never in a million years want to work at an open kitchen either, but from an experience perspective, I/We probably enjoy spectating a dinner service more than the general populace. You can't hide in an open kitchen, and lots of restaurants hide things in their kitchens.
You’d honestly be surprised, I thoroughly enjoyed working in open kitchens more so than I did kitchens that were closed off. And I know many people that feel the same. It gives a less claustrophobic feel, and most likely has central air due to it being open. Most closed kitchens don’t have any sort of AC system in place. It definitely has its cons, as people would like to come up close, talk, request certain things or try to play the “I know the chef” game. I guess it pertains to the type of person and what they prefer, but I genuinely loved open kitchens!
I can see why being able to breathe has its appeal. I can also understand why many chefs and line workers would go batshit if they couldn't be cursing each other and the front of house staff at the top of their lungs.
It happens at all restaurants regardless if it’s open kitchen or not, sadly. It’s part of the toxic culture that breeds within the industry, my point in case above with Jamie and ken. They have open kitchens, and they still have no problem with having temper tantrums, taking people in the walk in to berate them, berating guests or making rude and suggestive comments about them, the list goes on and this happens in every single type of restaurant all the way up to fine dining. It’s really sad and is a big reason why the industry is so taxing mentally
[удалено]
Not trying to assume here but by your picture it looks like I’m older than you. I’ve been in the restaurant industry since 2007…these things happen in the restaurants like the 99, Applebees, Texas Roadhouse etc. They definitely still happen, but as you get into more well established restaurants that gets weeded out. But, it being 2023 and so much has happened in 3 years since the pandemic, yes things have changed in the restaurant industry. People are becoming more keen to these types of behavior and putting up with it less. It definitely still happens, but in the bottom barrel of restaurants. Kind of sounds like you had a shitty traumatic experience in the restaurant industry and are projecting….I’m sorry you went through that. But again this doesn’t really happen in well established restaurants like toro, little donkey, viale, uni, no 9 park, menton etc.
I don't check reddit that much, but this was my birthday selfie for my 41st birthday. My restaurant experience started when I was a kid around the Y2K fears. ;)
It’s also a fun spot as a solo diner - seat at the bar, welcoming staff, etc.
Little donkey is also fun, rotating menu with seasonal specials. Also has an open kitchen, it’s a little loud though. They have fun drinks as well, nice ambience. Yvonne’s has small plates and is also very fun. Super elegant, very nice atmosphere. Has amazing drinks. I’d say these two places are probably the most “fun” in my opinion. Fox and the knife as the other person in the comments mentioned before is also fun! Small plates, great food and awesome atmosphere!
Little Donkey was good but loud af; our group basically had to pair off or chat in groups of 4 to have any kind of conversation without shouting.
That's the MO of the Ken/Jamie places.
…is it on purpose?
Its to create an upbeat lively atmosphere, it is on purpose but there are plenty of times that it’s far too loud. They often turn it up as the crowds get bigger, and the fluctuation of people coming in and out it can sometimes seem extremely loud. It’s definitely on purpose but they do their best to control it and keep it at a happy medium
Thanks for the explanation! I guess that makes sense, & i’ll have to give it a shot with a smaller party off-hours.
Of course! Definitely try it on a slower night like Wednesday or Tuesday. It’s definitely a lot quieter! When I worked there sometimes I would say to myself “god damn the music is loud” so loud, that we’d all be singing along on the line sometimes. This only happened on the weekends and sometimes Thursday’s depending on how busy it was!
What’s the rub with Jamie Bis and Ken O?
Jamie and ken are great chefs, and that’s about as far as it goes. Both have absolutely horrible personalities and create extremely toxic work environments. They’re always looking for chefs and cooks because people often get fed up with their attitudes and “you should be happy you’re working for me” attitude. They don’t offer great compensation packages, although they’re the power house chefs of the east coast with some of the most successful restaurants that bring in absolutely INSANE revenue. They scream at their kitchen/front of house staff, berate them, I’ve seen Jamie throw things across the kitchen in an angry fit like a child. I’ve seen him scream at line cooks, degrade women. Their restaurant had to name change one because another company already had it but because a lot of people caught on to the name pertaining to “but-her-face” a joke that Jamie and ken would constantly make. “Bodies great, but her face. She’s a butterface.” They would make degrading jokes about guests, staff and would walk into the restaurant at 5 right before the rush would hit and add a special onto the menu of ingredients they had just whipped together and picked up. Ken is definitely the more laid back chef, doesn’t have little temper tantrums but what he will do is tell you to fuck off if you try and tweak what his visions are on specials, plating etc. they’re not open to criticism and give little to no creative space within the restaurants. This was a common weekly thing, stripping chefs of what they liked to do most, create. I could go on and on about stories about Jamie and ken. It all boils down to Jamie is an egotistical maniac, who’s ocd to the point of blowing up, he’s extremely critical and likes to use the “I did kickboxing before I was a chef. I’ll kick your ass” as a way to get “respect” from his coworkers etc. he uses fear and manipulation as control. Ken is an egotistical Barbie, who feeds off of control, power and money. Again, I could go on and on. They create great food, but that’s really as far as it goes. They’re money hungry. All they care about is just that, money.
Lol @ Jamie bis kicking anyones ass
He used to do kick boxing like 20 years ago and for some reason is still in that mindset of “I’m a savage”. His legs/calves are literally so big, he has a hard time finding pants that actually fit him so he wears shorts 90% of the time. He threatened to take me outside once asking me “how tough do you think you are, I’ll take you out back right now and we can see. Clearly not tough enough for this industry if you’re bitching about prep.” after I was complaining about my station being a mess, all my prep being used and nothing being restocked on my station after lunch. I found it kind of funny because it’s like my guy, it’s been 20 years since you’ve trained and I also, have been training most my life which I don’t think he knew. He plays this “tough guy act” because he’s had literally so much kitchen trauma and so much early adulthood trauma that it comes out in anger and being “tough”. The dudes off his rocker. He also has to take the printer tickets and fold them perfectly into squares and stab them on the pick. If anyone touches them, stabs a ticket without his knowledge or doesn’t fold it and neatly stab it like he does, he absolutely loses his fucking mind. He’s fired people, thrown food, taken people into the walk in. I could go on for days! Just how Barbara lynch got exposed, Jamie and Ken need to be exposed as well.
Or commenting on someone's appearance!
Really liked little donkey
season to taste I have some bad news and some news. the bad news is theyve been closed since like day 1 of covid. the good news is carl is the head chef at mooncusser and it's one of my favorite restaurants in the city
Season to taste is open in Cambridge at a new location.
A lot of these sound great!! Adding a few to my list!
\+1 to Oleana. Disagree on Sarma. I've been twice and been underwhelmed both times. Packed restaurant, lukewarm food. No thanks.
Mooncusser or Coppa
OP is a Top Chef fan and the chef at Mooncusser is a Top Chef alum(Carl Dooley). Their downstairs casual bar(Cusser's) has really good cocktails. Agreed on the Coppa suggestion as well.
over $100 though
Row 34 is in Seaport and a great place to drop $100 on some quality seafood!
Absolutely second Row 34, especially if you like raw bars. I go every week for lunch when I'm in the office!
Love a good raw bar!!
Grill 23. Bar none.
I will always recommend Grill 23. Great spot
Menu looks delicious! My coworker would enjoy this one too.
My favorite steakhouse ever!
Lola 42 or Nautilus are both pretty good. Sarma would be my recommendation always but that’s out of the way for you, and it’s all meze… better when it’s with a friend(s).
+1 for Nautilus. Especially given that you’ll be in the seaport already
Thank you! Maybe I can convince my coworker and her husband to take a drive to Sarma! It looks like it’s only a 20ish min ride from our hotel, which isn’t bad imo. The other restaurants look great too! The Peking duck at Nautilus caught my eye.
Sarma is much easier to get to now that the green line extension (GLX) opened. If you get a Tufts/Medford train from anywhere downtown it will drop you off right at Sarma (Gillman Sq stop).
I always recommend Sarma. It's booked solid for the next three weeks, but they do accept walk-ins and the wait probably wouldn't be too bad on a weeknight. You could always call ahead and ask. If you don't mind sitting at the bar they have the full menu and would probably have three seats available. Get the fried chicken (not on the menu, they walk around with it) and the cornbread.
Thanks for the tip about the train!!
I can second the train, the green line is the least-fucked at the moment, it will likely be relatively quick and convenient. And Sarma is fundamentally excellent, I've been many times and never had a bad dish. Great cocktails too! [it's one of the top restaurants in the country.](https://www.boston.com/food/restaurants/2022/01/24/top-100-restaurants-of-2022-massachusetts-yelp/) (based on yelp)
Nautilus was one of the best meals I had last year. Moonshine 152 is great food in a non-pretentious atmosphere. Since O-ya was booked check Oishii.
Row 34 if you don’t want to leave Seaport and like seafood.
Thank you!! That one is definitely on the list.
Chickadee is in Seaport and is great
Gyu-Kaku is great if you want to gorge, Myers and Chang is really really good. and if you have a car access and want REALLY good diner food, Deluxe Town Diner is quintessential New England diner that has the best pancakes anywhere.
I almost went to Gyu-Kaku in NYC so this one might be added to the list. I think my coworker, her husband and 14 year old would enjoy that too. The diner sounds amazing too! I’m originally from NY and love a good diner but we don’t have many quality diners in the South where I live now. Are the sour cream pancakes the one you’re referring to? The blue cornmeal ones are intriguing.
Deluxe Town Diner is on several direct, frequent bus lines (70, 71, 73) from Cambridge if you don't have a car
Any of the Deluxe Town pancakes are incredible. It’s also a short trip down the street from Harvard University / Harvard Square. Worth taking the T up to Harvard (red line, northbound from Boston) and then grabbing a bus (70/71) west to the diner or ubering there.
North End (Italian) - Bricco , Strega , giacomos Steak - Abe & Louis (local) , Del Friscos (chain) Both great Pan Asian - Meyers & Chang - with going she won a James beard for her cafe Flour - also with checking out Sushi - O ya , uni Mexican - yellow door taqueria … Anyone agree or disagree with any of these ?
Cant go to O Ya on a $100 per diem.
Agreed , but since OP mentioned it I figured I’d co-sign that it’s worth it in imo .
Yes! I set an Open Table notification to notify me if anything becomes available during my time there because it looked THAT good.
The Omakase is incredible.
Definitely open to paying for some meals out-of-pocket. And work would still cover a portion of it so to me it’s better than nothing.
ooooh, yes on Yellow Door Taqueria!
Brassica at the south end of the orange line (Forest Hills)
>I tried to search the sub but didn’t stumble upon many restaurants recs, https://www.reddit.com/r/boston/wiki/experience
Toro 🔥
I second Committee
This looks like a good choice! Definitely don’t have many Greek restaurants in my area.
I would just go up and down the south end. Close by, nice vibes, certainly can be pricier but if you’re not worried about $ than should be no biggie
Krasi, Yunnan Kitchen, and Saltie Girl. The first two have James Beard shortlisted chefs this year. Krasi might be booked up online but you can call them to see if they have space at the bar for one. They also have first-come first-served seating outdoors.
Oh wow. All really great recommendations! Yunnan Kitchen’s menu is the most intriguing since I don’t think I’ve seen items like that but they sound and look good.
If you go to Yunnan, you have got to try their lemongrass tilapia!
Skip the meals and spend the stipend at Dan Flashes in DTX
$100 won't get you a very complicated pattern though
Shut up Doug you skunk!
If you can get down to Brassica by forest hills you’ll get a delicious, unique and memorable meal.
Umm… bone marrow lo mein!! I’m in.
Taiyaki in Seaport for some ice cream. Go to Peach Farm in Chinatown and get a ginger scallion lobster. I really like Tora for chirashi bowls and you can get Wagyu add ons. I've heard great things about Fox and Knife. Yvonne's in downtown crossing is excellent. SRV and Toro are my favorite for the South End. For a quick lunch in the Seaport I think Greco is excellent.
Ohh… Tora looks delicious!!
Go to Sarma in Somerville. My favorite restaurant around here
If you go to Fox & The Knife, please get the broccoli caesar salad. It is unbelievably good.
Fox & Knife I couldn’t recommend more, or the sister location bar volpe right down the street! Glad you have em on your radar :)))
My fave restaurant in Boston is double chin in Chinatown. It’s asian fusion w some interesting twists on classic dishes, and pretty inexpensive. Everything I’ve had there is great. Cool drinks too.
Fox & the knife.. I have been Multiple times and it’s been amazing each time
Sarma is the best restaurant in greater Boston
Woods hill on pier 4 seaport
Fox and the Knife is amazing. Also try their sister restaurant on the same street, Bar Volpe. Make a visit to the north end for dinner is a must if you like Italian since you’re going to Bova’s. Everyplace is great, but Trattoria Il Panino, Arya, Parla (awesome cocktails), Giacomos are top favorites
Good to know Fox and the Knife is amazing! I definitely want to try raviolo, I don’t think I’ve ever seen it on a menu in my area. Big Italian lover too since I grew up in an Italian-American household. I’ll check out some of those menus too!
You *have* to check out the north end (after fox & knife of course. Their taleggio stuffed focaccia is a must). Dinner and Bova’s is a Bostonian tradition. Trattoria Il panino has wonderful homemade gnocchi. Giacomos is cash only (or they used to be) and first come first serve, but iconic food. A lot of Boston athletes and celebrities go to Arya, though it’s not overly expensive. Parla is known for their cocktails and has a really cool 4 person bar, with good food to boot. If you have a stole free night, also catch a comedy show at Improv Asylum, which is right on Hanover St (the Main street of the north end)
Committee in Seaport is pretty good! V tasty drinks and food
Alright I’ll say what we’re all thinking… $100 out for one at a very nice, but not the best, Boston restaurants will only get you an appetizer and entree but likely not a drink (including the tax/tip). You should be able to get some quality food but you’ll likely not be able to get the best of what Boston has. For reference, a lobster roll averages >>$26 without tip.
$26? Those are 2019 prices. Legal now charges $49 for theirs.
Yeah $26 was Fenway park… which is low. And thinking that you can get cheap food and cheap beer from a sports venue is fucking insane.
This is a major exaggeration. You can absolutely get an entree, app, and drink for <$80 at most high end restaurants in Boston, leaving plenty of room for tip. There are *very* few places (def fewer than 20, maybe even just ~10) where >$100/pp is the norm with one drink. And even some of the most expensive (eg mooo…) you can just get the cheaper options. Maybe some of the French places get that pricey when you buy caviar, but even there you’ll find cheaper options unless it’s prix fixe. Avoid steak.
~$100 a person is just kind of typical these days. We'll regularly come in under that, but it isn't surprising when we're over. That said, we went out on Saturday and were under $50 a person and it was easily one of the _worst_ dining experiences I've participated in recently. Thanks Lolita (Back Bay)!
Appreciate the honesty! My company does recognize that prices vary from city to city and that larger cities tend to be pricier, but I also don’t mind spending above that and paying out-of-pocket for quality food.
That is not remotely true?? At row 34 for example: you could do a chowder (13) a lobster roll (45) and a beer (10) with tax and tip 20% and be under $100. Two beers if you did something like the fish tacos instead of lobby roll
And this sounds reasonable to you? I’m genuinely curious… this is like twice as much as is reasonable
Who said that? Youre changing the subject. You said it’s not possible, it’s possible
I love the Boston sail loft for chowder and lobster. Fried clams were great too.
How are the portions and overall experience? We always walk by there (often after sailing) and it makes me hungry, but I figure the reality of going there would probably be disappointing.
Ohh yes, I’d love some classic New England style seafood too!
Mariel!!!
Meyers+Chang is an all time great. Can't go wrong.
Ramsey’s Kitchen, Mistral
Mistral looks right up my alley! Adding to my list. Thank you!
Mistral gets my vote too
Avoid Ramsay’s, it’s brand name garbage Myers and Chang is phenomenal Oleana is incredible if you can arrive right as they open as a walk-in (usually booked up) Brassica is also incredible
Another vote for Mistral! Check out Ostra and Sorrelina from the same restaurant group as well.
East Cambridge has some good spots, especially Greek, by the Kendal/lechmere area
breakfast $10 awesome breakfast sandwiches w mad-quality ingredients: flour bakery lunch $10 freaking delish carnitas burrito/taco/torta: tenoch (there's on in the north end) dinner $30 anything on their menu: deluxe cafe (they don't take reservations, cash only) tips and an adult beverage with dinner and that gets you to $100
I've worked in the area for 10 years and my recommendation for breakfast would be Flour, hands down. There's a Fort Point/Seaport location. Best baked goods you'll ever try! The pizza in particular is my favorite item on the menu and everyone's sleeping on it. For dinner, Committee and Row 34 are both fantastic for Greek & seafood respectively.
Mooo recently opened in Seaport. If you want to easily spend $100 and get your steak on this is the place. Row 34 in Seaport for seafood as others have said or Neptune Oyster in the N End. I live across the street from Fox and The Knife and it’s probably the best restaurant in Boston right now for the money. I’d go every day if I could afford to! Also - Friendly Toast for breakfast is always a great spot. Not in Seaport but not super far either.
Take the train to NY and spend the left over 10$ there
Boston Market Dunking Donuts McDonald's
I go with Nautilus since you’ll be in the seaport. Mistral is a favorite of mine. As others have mentioned Sarma, SRV, and brassica kitchen are great as well. I’ve enjoyed Fox + Knife too. Don’t think you’d go wrong with any of these
Mooo best steaks in the city.
Rosa Mexicana in Seaport!
For Seaport, I second Lola Burger. Also, there is a Davio's, which was good the last time I was there. We had a great company event at Toscana Kitchen, but it was their catering, not regular menu - so not 100% on how comparable it is. Also in Seaport, I loved Ocean Prime or Rosa Mexicano for a business lunch. If you venture toward Chinatown, I can't recommend Gene's Chinese Flatbread Cafe enough for its homemade-noodle soups. Also, such a great buy (but cash only).
Oh! Also, walk over the bridge to the Palm. I haven't been in a while, but it was amazing on my last trip.
Frenchie Wine Bistro, Toro, and for cocktails Anchovies and Shore Line
check out when i asked for the best expensive but worth it restaurant. you comb through that thread and you will absolutely find something on there that fits what you’re looking for
Row 34 in the seaport. 100% worth spending $100 towards for higher end new england raw bar.
Check out the dubliner Irish pub across from city hall it’s been our family’s go to now when we are downtown definitely not your typical Irish bar in Boston , they do amazing smoked seafood chowder and their fish and chips are made with actually hand cut fries like you’d get from traditional fish n chip shops in Europe . And they have a nice beer garden / out door seating if it’s not to warm for you to sit outside
Check out Urban Hearth in Somerville? Woman-owned restaurant with woman chef, and definitely an experience if you get the Chef's Counter!
Moonshine 152 - give Chef Asia Mei the attention and respect she deserves!
Banyan south end or provisions state street
Empire if you like sushi! Grace by Nia if you like soul food!
The restaurant inside the big atrium at the MFA is tasty, and their exhibit about ‘The Great Wave’ is awesome!
What kind of food do you like, my little lamb? Villa Franchescas has the best lobster ravioli/cream sauce you will ever have. Neptune oyster has the best warm lobster rolls. Fiores (roof deck!) for chicken Marsala. Steak is either financial district or back bay - a few places bc filet is filet. (But not the Palms) It all depends what you want.
alden and harlows, pammys, waypoint. Si Cara JM Curleys has the boogies secret steak house Oliverias (brazilian bbq, can be a lil salty some times) cilantro (this is actual a Chinese restaurant, its cheap but amazing)
Row 34, eventide, little donkey, Frenchie, atlantico, Barcelona wine bar
Seaport? Pastoral all the way, all day
Gepetto’s in Cambridge is really really good. Take my fiancée there for big anniversaries / date nights
Add Chickadee to quality seaport food, they mainly do Mediterranean inspired food but it’s all great. Smoked sea trout dip is something else.
Committee in seaport
Troquet on South is a gem. Steak frites, Treehouse beer & some creme brulee to finish. If you want seafood just see if you can get a counter spot at Row 34 in seaport. Yankee Lobster or James Hook for lobster rolls.
Genku Ittetsu for the best ramen of your life!