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The history of food in Boston is a beautiful tale that takes one through the journey of the American Revolution and how the city played a huge role in shaping it. This city is home to countless historic spots that are reminiscent of historical events. Several of these spots are food places that were instrumental in the revolution.
From the Boston Tea Party to the rise of coffee culture, Boston has seen it all. The emergence of New England cuisine and the introduction of alternatives to sugar and molasses transformed the city’s cuisine completely. To this day, several cuisine fusions have made their way into the cuisine of Boston and given a unique identity to the city.
Famous foods in Boston like Boston Baked Beans and New England Clam Chowder are deeply rooted in the city’s tradition. Several iconic restaurants in the city craft these quintessential delights so perfectly that they can’t be mimicked. These well-known eateries have reimagined the famous foods in Boston and present an array of dishes worth exploring.
Dine In These Historic Restaurants In Boston, MA
1) Warren Tavern
From around 1780, the legendary Warren Tavern has been a tourist hangout and a treasure for the local community. This historic inn, the state's oldest taphouse, has served as a gathering spot for notable figures such as George Washington and Paul Revere. Since its naming in 1780 in honour of the patriot Dr. Joseph Warren, this location has been cherished. This establishment, located on Pleasant Street in close proximity to the Bunker Hill Monument, has historically served the city's finest New England clam chowder and oysters. Relish a colonial ambience while indulging in a diverse menu that spans from traditional baked haddock from New England to zesty salmon tacos.
Location: 2 Pleasant St, Boston, MA 02129
Timings: Sun-Fri: 11 am–1 am; Sat: 10 am–1 am
Must Try: Oysters, New England Clam Chowder, Crispy Fish Tacos, Fish & Chips, Fries
Price for 2: $60 approx.
Image Credit: Warren Tavern
2) Santarpio's Pizza
Santarpio's Pizza has been a revered pizza place in East Boston since 1903. This restaurant was initially a bakery that transitioned to crafting iconic NYC-style pizzas and grilled meat skewers in the 1930s. Rooted in classic Boston attitude, Santarpio's is a local landmark celebrated for its unpretentious charm. The delectable meat toppings and signature sauce have been a highlight of this restaurant. Dishes like the signature Cheese Pizza and Single Steak Tips are must-try items on the menu.
Location: 111 Chelsea St, Boston, MA 02128
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11:30 am–10 pm
Must Try: Cheese Pizza and Single Steak Tips
Price for 2: $50 approx.
3) Union Oyster House
Established in 1826, Union Oyster House stands as a historic eatery, delighting customers with authentic New England seafood traditions. This eatery was formerly known as the Atwood and Bacon Oyster House and was situated near Faneuil Hall, a building dating back to 1714. Their freshly shucked oysters and classic baked beans have been a local favourite for decades. Recognized as America's oldest continuously operating restaurant, its quaint 18th-century design and listing on the Historic Register since 2003 make it a tourist must-visit.
Location: 41 Union St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Timings: Sun-Thu: 11 am–9 pm; Fri-Sat: 11 am–10 pm
Must Try: New England Clam Chowder, Freshly Shucked Oysters, Baked Beans
Price for 2: $70 approx.
Image Credit: Union Oyster House
4) Parker’s Restaurant
Parker’s Restaurant is an elegant eatery situated in the Omni Parker House's Parker House Hotel. This historic restaurant has been a witness to some iconic moments including John F. Kennedy's proposal to Jackie. Serving an exquisite New England fare in a refined setting, Parker’s Restaurant is well known for its variety of offerings. Not only that, this restaurant is also known for introducing the Boston Cream Pie and Parker House Rolls. Open for breakfast and lunch, it stands as the oldest continuously operating hotel in the United States, inviting you to indulge in a culinary journey through the ages.
Location: 60 School St, Boston, MA 02108, United States
Timings: Mon-Sun: 7 am–2 pm
Must Try: Boston Cream Pie and Parker House Rolls
Price for 2: $100 approx.
5) Amrheins
Dating back to 1890, Amrheins stands as South Boston's oldest restaurant which has been around for more than a century. Situated in a grand red-brick Victorian building on West Broadway, this longtimer exudes classic American and Italian flavours in a polished pub setting. The antique carved wood bar, a piece of American history, sets the stage for a warm, well-worn interior enjoyed by devoted locals. Savour classic New England dining, and strong cocktails along with signature items like French Onion Soup and Clam Chowder.
Location: 80 W Broadway, Boston, MA 02127, United States
Timings: Mon-Wed: 5 am–2 pm; Thu-Sat: 5 am–10 pm; Sun: 6 am–9 pm
Must Try: French Onion Soup, Clam Chowder
Price for 2: $100 approx.
Image Credit: Amrheins
These long standing restaurants serve amazing dishes that take back to history and let everyone cherish the revolutionary events that shaped the country’s present. Serving iconic dishes in a laid-back setting, these famous restaurants in Boston are a true tribute to the fabled American Revolution.
