EXPLORE WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK IN BOSTON
Boston is a city steeped in history, not just in its landmarks and lore, but also in its culinary culture. From the cobblestone streets of the North End to the bustling waterfronts along the Harbor, the city offers a rich tapestry of flavors that echo its diverse heritage and innovative spirit. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of New England clam chowder on a chilly day or indulging in a creamy Boston cream pie, the local cuisine encapsulates a blend of traditional recipes and contemporary twists. Here’s a guide to some iconic Boston eats that promise to deliver a true taste of the city.
BAKED BEANS
Rooted in the heritage of Native Americans and early Pilgrims, and tied to Boston’s historical role in the rum trade of the late 1700s, these beans are slow-cooked with molasses and salt pork and usually paired with brown bread. You can enjoy them at Beantown Pub or Bostonia Public House.
BOSTON CREAM PIE
Despite its name, this dessert is more akin to a cake and originated in Boston. First introduced in 1856 at the Parker House Hotel, which also gave us the Parker House Roll, it consists of sweet custard sandwiched between layers of yellow butter cake and a chocolate glaze topping. Available at Parker’s Restaurant in the Omni Parker House Hotel and occasionally at Flour Bakery.
LOBSTER ROLL
Prefer your lobster chilled with mayo or warm with butter? Regardless of your choice, it’s traditionally served in a toasted hot dog bun. Try this iconic Boston dish at James Hook & Co., Yankee Lobster, Alive & Kicking Lobsters, or B&G Oysters.
NEW ENGLAND CLAM CHOWDER
A staple in New England cuisine, this hearty stew combines clams, potatoes, salt pork or bacon, and cream, garnished with oyster crackers. Some versions also incorporate mussels or fish chunks. Widely available, but notably superb at Neptune Oyster and Legal Sea Foods.
CANNOLI
A favorite in Boston, especially evident by the queues at North End's renowned Italian pastry shops like Mike's Pastry and Modern Pastry. These crispy shells are filled with a light ricotta or cream filling, often dipped in chocolate chips and available at Bova’s Bakery.
CLAMBAKE
A classic seaside feast featuring lobster, clams, corn, and red potatoes steamed over seaweed. While traditionally offered in a simple setting at places like The Barking Crab, more upscale versions can be found at Neptune Oyster.
YANKEE POT ROAST
This dish pays tribute to the frugality and patience of historical New England working classes, consisting of slowly roasted tough beef cuts with onions, carrots, potatoes, and either turnips or parsnips. Henrietta’s Table offers the best rendition.
FRAPPE
Known locally simply as a milk and syrup blend that’s vigorously whipped, add ice cream to create a rich, creamy frappe (pronounced to rhyme with "slap"). Often paired with a burger and fries, it’s a treat you can find at South Street Diner or Mr. Bartley’s.
OYSTERS
Dining on raw oysters in Boston is as quintessential as enjoying crayfish in New Orleans. Mostly sourced from local waters like Duxbury and Wellfleet, Massachusetts, to Point Judith, Rhode Island, sample them at spots like Row 34 and The Hourly.
FLUFFERNUTTER
Originating from nearby Lynn with the invention of Marshmallow Fluff in the early 20th century, the Fluffernutter combines Fluff and peanut butter on plain white bread. Enjoy the traditional or a unique fried version at Local 149.