Boston’s food scene reflects a mingling of various cultures and cuisines that were brought to the city through many influences. The city also has a colonial history, which introduced international flavours. While the city has evolved through time, the iconic flavours remain unchanged, paying homage to the rich heritage.
There’s a lot to eat in Beantown, for sure, but the residents only stick to traditional treats that have become the city's identity. Boston's pride in its classic eats has truly brought global recognition to local feasts. Thanks to the timeless charm of long-standing restaurants, the way they craft the dishes so well has truly captured the attention of local as well as international guests.
From the classic baked beans that gave the city its legendary nickname to the favourite clam chowder celebrating the abundance of fresh seafood, every recipe speaks volumes about the city's culinary mastery. Learn more about Boston's famous foods and where you can find the best in the city.
7 Famous Foods Of Boston You Must Try
1) Boston Baked Beans - Beantown Pub
Image Credit: Flickr
The dish that gave Boston its iconic nickname was inspired by the English bean-and-bacon pottage dish, which came to the city through colonisation. While the dish gets its inspiration from England, the new-age Boston Baked Beans are differentiated from that recipe, which comes down to the use of molasses. Slow baking in molasses adds a honey-like richness to the dish, making it extremely comforting. Beantown Pub is known for crafting the best baked beans in Boston where you’ll get a generous portion in one serving.
Location: 100 Tremont St., Boston, MA 2108
Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 9 am–2 am
Must Try: Boston baked beans, Brown Bread, Fried Pickles
Price for 2: $30 approx.
2) Cannoli - Mike’s Pastry
If you were to name one dessert that has the heart of Bostonians, it's cannoli. Mike's Pastry has been crafting the best cannoli in Boston since its establishment in 1946. The classic chocolate chip dish has now evolved into many other flavours that truly make a dessert lover’s dream come true in this city. Since Mike’s Pastry has been using this recipe for ages, they know how to derive the best flavour from every element of this dessert.
Location: 300 Hanover St., Boston, MA 02113
Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 8 am–10 pm
Must Try: Cannoli, Boston Cream Pie, Black and White Cookie
Price for 2: $20 approx.
3) Clam Chowder - Union Oyster House
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Locals call it chowdah, with that kinky English accent. While it is a New England speciality, Boston does it best, thanks to its abundance of fresh clams. There are countless restaurants that serve this creamy delight. Union Oyster House's version often tops the list. Since the 1850s, they've perfected the art of chowder, serving steaming bowls filled with juicy clams in a creamy broth. True to tradition, it's rich, thick, and paired perfectly with oyster crackers.
Location: 41 Union St., Boston, MA 02108
Open Hours: Sun-Thu: 11 am–9 pm; Fri-Sat: 11 am–10 pm
Must Try: Clam chowder, Oyster
Price for 2: $100 approx.
4) Lobster Roll - James Hook & Co.
Image Credit: Flickr
In the seafood delicacies of Boston, lobster is one of the most used ingredients in several iconic dishes, of which lobster roll is the most liked among locals. You will find several delectable versions of this treat on every corner, but for the authentic taste, head to James Hook & Co. which has been serving up fresh Maine lobster since 1925. Whether you prefer it hot with butter or cold with mayo, their rolls are a masterpiece of succulent lobster meat.
Location: 440 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA 02210
Open Hours: Sun-Thu: 10 am–4 pm; Fri-Sat: 10 am–5 pm
Must Try: Lobster Roll, Lobster Bisque, Clam Chowder
Price for 2: $70 approx.
5) Lobster Mac n Cheese - Yankee Lobster
In Boston, lobster isn't just for rolls; it's also the star of decadent lobster mac and cheese. While many places serve their own twist on this creamy delight, Yankee Lobster holds the crown for making one of the city's best renditions. Their version features macaroni smothered in a blend of white cheddar and Parmesan, studded with juicy lobster chunks and roasted tomatoes. Topped with crunchy breadcrumbs, it's a golden, irresistible treat.
Location: 300 Northern Ave., Boston, MA 02210
Open Hours: Mon-Thu: 11 am–8 pm; Fri: 11:30 am–8:30 pm; Sat: 11 am–8:30 pm; Sun: 11 am–7 pm
Must Try: Lobster Mac n Cheese, Fried Clams, Lobster Roll, Clam Chowder, Seafood Stew
Price for 2: $60 approx.
6) Roast Meat Sandwich - Kelly’s Roast
Roast meat sandwiches are one of the most sought-after breakfast treats in Boston. Featuring a roasted slice of meat ladened in toasted bread slices and decorated with lush greens and dressings, this treat is not for the faint of heart. In the city, Kelly's is renowned for crafting the best of these sandwiches. Their sandwiches feature tender slices of medium-rare roast beef piled high on a grilled sesame seed roll, along with lettuce, tomato, American cheese, and a savoury blend of barbecue sauce and mayo.
Location: Boston Logan International Airport, Terminal B, 1 Harborside Dr, Boston, MA 02128
Open Hours: Mon: 10 am–8 pm; Tue: 9 am–8:30 pm; Wed-Sat: 10 am–8 pm; Sun: 12–8 pm
Must Try: Roast Meat Sandwich, Chicken Tenders, Steak and Cheese
Price for 2: $40 approx.
7) Boston Cream Pie - Omni Parker House
Omni Parker House on the Freedom Trail in Downtown Boston is a legendary hotel known for making the best Boston Cream Pie. Tracing its roots back to the 1900s, the legend credits Parker House with giving birth to this revered treat. Loved by locals and visitors alike, this treat features layers of spongy yellow butter cake sandwiching sweet custard, all coated in a rich chocolate glaze. Every bite of this treat is a celebration for taste buds, and you’ll only get the best taste in Boston.
Location: 60 School St., Boston, MA 02108
Open Hours: NA
Must Try: Boston Cream Pie
Price for 2: $100+
These foods best describe Boston’s true flavours. From heaping piles of meat in a sandwich to luscious nibbles from the chocolate dessert, these treats create a memorable Boston experience with every bite.