15 Fun & Unique Restaurants in Boston (By a Local)

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If there’s one thing I’ve learned from living in Boston my entire life and traveling to over 65 countries, it’s that my hometown is full of amazing and unique dining experiences that rival any major city. From the classic charm of old-school New England seafood to cutting-edge, quirky spots that surprise you at every turn, Boston’s food scene is seriously underrated.

Whether you’re after world-class fine dining or a more offbeat vibe, Boston has something for every taste. Want to feast on fresh oysters by the harbor or enjoy dinner in a secret speakeasy hidden behind a bookstore? Trust me, these spots go way beyond ordinary. After exploring the city’s dining scene for years, I’m sharing 15 of the most unique restaurants in Boston—each one offering an unforgettable experience. Let’s jump in!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend doing this foodie tour in Boston. It brings you to some of the best restaurants in the North End. This tour is an absolute must-do on a Boston itinerary in my opinion.

Unique Restaurants in Boston, MA: 15 Incredible Boston Eateries

Ready to dive into Boston’s unique dining scene? Boston’s not just about history; it’s a city with a diverse and exciting array of eateries. From hidden gems to culinary wonders, there’s something for every food lover. Let’s uncover the best spots to eat in Boston, Massachusetts, where each meal is an adventure.

Craving something different, like wood-fired pizzas with a creative twist? Or maybe a dessert that’s more than just sweet, but an actual show? Boston’s got you covered. From Newbury Street to the North End, here’s your guide to Boston’s most unique and unforgettable dining experiences.

• For more unique spots around Boston and New England, be sure to follow me on Instagram (@Global.Viewpoint)!

1. Union Oyster House

• 📍 Location: Near Faneuil Hall
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Historic New England Seafood / American
• 🔥 Standout Features: America’s oldest restaurant, historic landmark, classic New England seafood.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History buffs, classic NE seafood fans, and iconic Boston dining.

Step into a living piece of American history at the Union Oyster House, America’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, serving patrons since 1826! This iconic Boston landmark exudes old-world charm with its timeworn wooden booths and historic ambiance.

A meal here means savoring classic New England seafood. You’ll certainly want to try their famous clam chowder, a platter of freshly shucked oysters from the historic oyster bar, or their traditional broiled scrod. The lobster roll is another must.

• Read next: Free Things to Do in Boston

2. Yvonne’s

• 📍 Location: Downtown Crossing
• 💲 Price range: $60 – $100+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Supper Club / Small & Large Plates
• 🔥 Standout Features: Opulent/secretive supper club, restored historic Locke-Ober, creative cocktails/shareables.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Glamorous nights out, sophisticated group dinners, and impressive stylish dining.

Get ready for a dose of modern glamour with a nod to history at Yvonne’s in Downtown Crossing. This stunning supper club is housed in the beautifully restored, legendary Locke-Ober restaurant space, blending opulent, vintage details with a chic, contemporary vibe.

You’ll be thrilled by their inventive menu of shareable modern American dishes. Popular choices include the “stone-fired pita bread” with various dips, creative tuna crudo preparations, and their flavorful grilled octopus. The baked Alaska is a showstopper dessert.

3. Shōjō

• 📍 Location: Chinatown
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Asian / Japanese Izakaya / Fusion Street Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Funky/artistic modern izakaya, creative Asian street food, lively/late-night.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous eaters, unique Asian fusion fans, and trendy flavorful night.

Dive into a world of bold flavors and funky, modern Asian cool at Shōjō in Boston’s Chinatown! This vibrant spot isn’t your traditional izakaya; it’s a high-energy, art-filled space serving up incredibly creative and delicious Asian street food-inspired dishes.

A wise choice involves sharing a variety of their inventive plates. Diners consistently rave about the “Shōjō Ramen”, the unique “Duck Fat Hand-Pulled Noodles”, and their creative bao buns like the “Pork Belly Bao”. It’s a fantastic place for a fun culinary adventure.

4. New Republik

• 📍 Location: Cambridge
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Armenian / Middle Eastern
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Armenian/Middle Eastern, family-run warmth, flavorful kebabs/meze.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Middle Eastern food lovers, exploring unique cultural flavors, and cozy authentic meals.

Embark on a delicious journey to the crossroads of Europe and Asia at New Republik in Cambridge. This gem serves up authentic and incredibly flavorful Armenian and Middle Eastern cuisine in a warm, inviting, family-run atmosphere.

You absolutely have to try their amazing selection of meze, like creamy hummus or smoky baba ghanoush. For mains, their succulent grilled kebabs (especially lamb and chicken shish kebab) and traditional Armenian stews like the Kharcho are fantastic.

Read next: Top Things to See and Do in Cambridge, MA

5. CLINK Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Beacon Hill, The Liberty Hotel
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $90+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern American / Upscale
• 🔥 Standout Features: Renovated former jail, historic/chic jail elements, refined seasonal cuisine.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Unique/historic dining, upscale special occasion, and sophisticated modern American.

Dine in a “cell” with serious style at CLINK. Restaurant, uniquely located within the dramatically renovated former Charles Street Jail, now The Liberty Hotel! This spot beautifully blends historic jailhouse architecture with chic, contemporary design.

The menu features refined modern American cuisine. Consider their perfectly prepared seafood dishes like the pan-seared scallops or lobster gnocchi. Inventive pasta creations and flavorful grilled meats such as filet mignon are also popular.

• Read next: Top Weekend Getaways in New England

6. Warren Tavern

• 📍 Location: Charlestown
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Historic American Tavern / Pub Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: MA’s oldest tavern (est. 1780), Paul Revere/George Washington haunt, classic pub.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History buffs, classic NE tavern fans, and pint in legendary spot.

Step back into the heart of the American Revolution at Warren Tavern in Charlestown, purportedly Massachusetts’ oldest tavern, established in 1780! This historic gem, said to have been frequented by Paul Revere and George Washington, oozes colonial charm.

While soaking in the incredible atmosphere, enjoy classic American pub fare. You can’t go wrong with their hearty burgers, like the “Warren Tavern Burger”. A comforting bowl of clam chowder or their famous fish and chips are also essential.

• Read next: Coolest Airbnb Rentals in Massachusetts

7. Beehive Restaurant

• 📍 Location: South End
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic American / Mediterranean / Live Jazz & Blues
• 🔥 Standout Features: Bohemian/artistic supper club, live jazz/blues nightly, eclectic global menu.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Live music lovers, vibrant/artsy dining, and unique soulful night.

Get ready to groove to some smooth tunes and savor eclectic global flavors at The Beehive Restaurant in Boston’s South End! This vibrant spot is a true bohemian supper club, offering a fantastic lineup of live jazz and blues music nightly in a cool, art-filled space.

A visit here means sharing flavorful Mediterranean-inspired small plates, like Moroccan cigars or lamb meatballs. Their moules frites are a classic. The Beehive Burger and creative cocktails are also popular choices.

8. Little Donkey

• 📍 Location: Cambridge 
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Global Tapas / Eclectic Small Plates / Fusion
• 🔥 Standout Features: Chefs Oringer/Bissonnette, innovative global small plates, lively/trendy.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous foodies, sharing unique global flavors, and hip energetic meal.

Embark on a whirlwind global tasting tour at Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square! This acclaimed spot, from renowned chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette, offers an incredibly inventive and delicious menu of globally inspired small plates that are perfect for sharing.

You absolutely have to try their famous matzah ball ramen or their creative foie gras & anadama bread. Other raved-about dishes include the fried chicken sandwich, octopus a la plancha, and various seafood crudos. It’s a true foodie adventure.

9. Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar

• 📍 Location: South Boston
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Mexican / Tacos & Oysters / Tequila Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Lively taqueria & oyster bar, creative tacos/fresh oysters, extensive tequila/mezcal.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Taco/oyster fanatics, lively group outings, and fun flavorful Mexican.

Get ready for a fiesta of fresh flavors at Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar in South Boston! This vibrant and trendy spot is a haven for lovers of creative tacos, fresh oysters, and an impressive selection of tequila and mezcal. The atmosphere is always buzzing.

A wise choice involves ordering a variety of their inventive tacos, like the crispy fish taco or the short rib taco. Their freshly shucked oysters, amazing guacamole, and the grilled street corn are also must-tries. Don’t forget a spicy margarita!

10. Friendly Toast

• 📍 Location: Back Bay, Cambridge
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic American Breakfast & Brunch / Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Quirky/retro kitsch decor, massive/creative breakfast/brunch menu, popular/lively.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Brunch fanatics, quirky diner lovers, and hearty inventive morning.

Wake up your taste buds with a side of quirky fun at Friendly Toast! This spot is legendary for its massive, creative, and incredibly delicious breakfast and brunch fare, all served in a wonderfully kitschy, retro-chic setting. The decor is a delightful explosion.

You absolutely have to try their famous “King Cakes” (French toast with bananas and peanut butter). Their inventive eggs Benedict variations like the “Cayenne Kissed Benedict”, or a loaded breakfast burrito such as the “Sklarmageddon”, are also phenomenal.

11. Asmara Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Cambridge
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eritrean / Ethiopian / East African
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Eritrean/Ethiopian, communal dining/injera, warm/family-run.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Exploring unique African flavors, sharing cultural meal, and flavorful vegetarian.

Embark on a delicious journey to East Africa at Asmara Restaurant in Cambridge. This beloved spot serves up authentic and incredibly flavorful Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine in a warm, inviting, family-run atmosphere. The air is fragrant with exotic spices.

A meal here means sharing a traditional combination platter, featuring savory meat and vegetable wots (stews) like doro wat (chicken stew) or misir wot (lentil stew). All served atop soft, spongy injera, the kitfo (spiced minced beef) is also fantastic.

12. Lookout Rooftop and Bar (The Envoy Hotel)

• 📍 Location: Seaport District, The Envoy Hotel
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per cocktail/small bite
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Rooftop Bar / Small Bites / Cocktails
• 🔥 Standout Features: Panoramic city/harbor views, chic/modern rooftop, creative cocktails/igloos.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Impressive drinks with view, stylish waterfront socializing, and unique seasonal igloos.

Elevate your Boston experience with breathtaking views at Lookout Rooftop and Bar, perched atop The Envoy Hotel in the Seaport District. This chic and modern rooftop lounge offers absolutely stunning panoramic vistas of the city skyline and Boston Harbor.

You’ll certainly want to try one of their signature cocktails while soaking in the incredible scenery. Their menu of shareable small plates, like truffle fries, sliders, or flatbreads, are perfect for enjoying with drinks.

13. The White Bull Tavern Downtown Boston

• 📍 Location: Financial District
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Tavern / Gastropub
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic Faneuil Hall area, modern tavern vibe, upscale pub fare/craft beer.
• 🎯 Perfect For: After-work drinks/bites, casual downtown dining, and elevated pub grub.

Experience a modern take on a classic American tavern at The White Bull Tavern in Boston’s bustling Financial District, near Faneuil Hall. This spot offers a stylish yet comfortable atmosphere, perfect for enjoying upscale pub fare and a great selection of craft beers.

Consider trying their gourmet burgers, like “The White Bull Burger”. Inventive shared plates such as tuna tartare or their flavorful flatbreads, and the fish and chips are also popular. It’s a fantastic blend of traditional tavern charm.

14. Sweet Cheeks Q

• 📍 Location: Fenway
• 💲 Price range: $20 – $40 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern Barbecue / Biscuits
• 🔥 Standout Features: Chef Tiffani Faison, Texas-style BBQ, legendary biscuits/honey butter.
• 🎯 Perfect For: BBQ fanatics, Southern comfort lovers, and pre/post-Red Sox.

Get ready for some seriously life-changing barbecue at Sweet Cheeks Q, Chef Tiffani Faison’s acclaimed spot in Boston’s Fenway neighborhood. This place is a temple to authentic Southern barbecue, with a focus on tender, smoky meats and incredible sides.

You absolutely, positively must try their melt-in-your-mouth brisket, their incredible pulled pork, and, most importantly, their legendary, gigantic biscuits served with honey butter. The pork ribs are another can’t-miss item.

15. Liuyishou Hotpot

• 📍 Location: Chinatown & other cities
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Chinese Hot Pot / Sichuan
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic Chongqing hot pot, customizable broths/ingredients, lively/interactive.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Hot pot lovers, spice adventurers, and fun communal group meals.

Prepare for a fiery and flavorful interactive feast at Liuyishou Hotpot in Boston’s Chinatown! This popular spot specializes in authentic Chongqing-style hot pot, where you cook an array of fresh meats, seafood, noodles, and vegetables in a bubbling broth.

A wise choice involves selecting one of their signature spicy broths (or a split pot for variety!). Load up on your favorite ingredients, like thinly sliced beef, fresh shrimp, and an array of vegetables and mushrooms. The handmade noodles are also excellent.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Most Unique Restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts

Are you searching for more information about where to eat in Boston? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Boston’s most unique restaurants.

Where do celebrities eat in Boston?

In Boston, celebrities often dine at restaurants with excellent cuisine, exclusive ambiance, and sometimes, a bit of privacy. Some of the popular spots among celebrities include:

1. Yvonne’s: Located in Downtown Crossing, this modern-day supper club is known for its chic decor and inventive menu. It’s a hotspot for celebrities looking for a trendy, upscale dining experience.
2. Ostra: This upscale Mediterranean seafood restaurant is known for attracting celebrities with its elegant atmosphere and exquisite seafood dishes.
3. Strega Waterfront: Part of the famed Strega group, this Italian restaurant on the Boston Harbor is a favorite for its delicious food and potential celebrity sightings.
4. The Capital Grille: With its classic steakhouse fare and refined setting, The Capital Grille is a go-to for celebrities seeking a high-end dining experience.
5. Scampo at the Liberty Hotel: Located in the stylish Liberty Hotel, Scampo is known for its Italian-influenced cuisine. The unique setting and excellent food make it a popular choice for celebrities.
6. Sorellina: Offering contemporary Italian-Mediterranean cuisine in a sophisticated setting, Sorellina is a favorite for a high-end dining experience.
7. Neptune Oyster: For celebrities craving seafood, Neptune Oyster in the North End is a top choice, known for its intimate setting and exceptional oysters and seafood.

What is the most famous food in Boston?

The most famous food in Boston is undoubtedly the New England Clam Chowder. This creamy, hearty soup is a quintessential part of Boston’s culinary identity. It’s characterized by its rich, creamy base, tender clams, potatoes, and onions, often served with oyster crackers. Boston’s version of clam chowder is particularly known for its thickness and creaminess, distinguishing it from other regional variations like the clear broth Rhode Island clam chowder or the tomato-based Manhattan clam chowder.

In addition to clam chowder, Boston is also renowned for other seafood dishes, particularly lobster rolls and fried clams. This reflects the city’s strong connection to the Atlantic Ocean and its seafood-rich waters. Boston baked beans, a dish made from navy beans, molasses, and salt pork, is another traditional food. These dishes, along with others like Boston cream pie and cannoli from the North End, showcase Boston’s diverse culinary landscape.

How many Michelin star restaurants does Boston have?

Boston currently does not have any Michelin star restaurants. This absence of prestigious Michelin Stars in the city’s local restaurants is not necessarily due to a lack of deserving establishments. The Michelin Guide, which awards these stars, has not yet expanded its coverage to include Boston. This means that while Boston has a vibrant and diverse food scene with many high-quality restaurants, they have not been evaluated by the Michelin Guide for potential star ratings.

Where can I find unique places to eat in Boston?

There’s a wide array of best fun restaurants in Boston. From establishments nestled in historic buildings like Union Oyster House to innovative culinary adventures like Oleana, the city is brimming with distinctive eateries. Exploring neighborhoods like the North End and the South End will lead you to a variety of hidden gems. The North End, known for its authentic Italian cuisine, and the South End, with its eclectic mix of trendy and diverse restaurants, are particularly noteworthy. Additionally, places like Yvonne’s in Downtown Crossing offer a blend of history and modern dining flair, ensuring that Boston’s culinary scene is as rich and varied as the city itself.

Are there affordable yet unique places in Boston to eat?

Certainly! In Boston, you can find unique and affordable eats by exploring neighborhoods like the North End or Cambridge on foot. Local recommendations are key – they often lead to hidden, budget-friendly gems. Whether it’s a quaint bakery in Beacon Hill or a family-run ethnic spot in East Boston, there’s plenty of diverse and inexpensive dining options to discover.

Is Boston known for any particular type of cuisine?

Boston is renowned for its seafood and traditional New England cuisine, thanks to its coastal location. Fresh seafood dishes like clam chowder, lobster rolls, and oysters are local favorites. The city’s historical roots also shine through in classics like Boston baked beans and Boston cream pie.

Are there any themed or uniquely designed restaurants in Denver?

Certainly! In Boston, Yvonne’s offers a speakeasy vibe in a historic library setting, while the Beehive in the South End features a bohemian atmosphere with live music. These are just a couple of examples of Boston’s restaurants that combine great food with unique, themed environments.

Wrapping up Boston’s Unique Restaurants

Boston is a city that continually surprises and delights, particularly in its culinary scene. From the historic cobblestone streets of the North End to the trendy, bustling avenues of the Back Bay, each neighborhood in Boston offers its own unique flavor. Here, food is more than just nourishment; it’s an adventure, a narrative, and at times, a captivating journey.

Hope you enjoyed this article on the coolest restaurants in Boston! Have you been to any unique eateries in the area? Send me an email at jon(at)myglobalviewpoint.com or shoot me a message on Instagram, as I’m always looking to try new places!

For more must-see places around Boston and New England, check out these articles:

– Coolest Weekend Getaways in Boston

– Top Boston Day Trips

– Unique Things to See and Do in Cambridge, Massachusetts

– Top Airbnb Rentals in Massachusetts

– Unique Stays in New England

– The Ultimate New England Itinerary in 2024

– Top Stays in Cape Cod

– Best Hidden Gem Vacation Spots in New England

– Coolest Getaways in the Berkshires