Best Downtown Boston’s Restaurants: Amazing City, Amazing Places!

As the world continues to reel from the pandemic-related pause, many are looking for ways to get their lives back on track. For food lovers, that means finding the best restaurants in their area again. The good news is that there are plenty of amazing places to eat out in Beantown Boston.

Boston has always been a city of culture and culinary innovation. There are endless things to see and do in Boston, but one of the best ways to experience the city is through its world-class restaurants. The best downtown Boston restaurants have always been some of the most highly acclaimed in the country. So if you’re looking for a delicious way to explore restaurants downtown Boston, read on for our picks for the top-notch dining experience in the city.

1. O Ya

Located in the city’s historic Leather District, this Japanese eatery has been consistently rated as one of the top restaurants in Boston, and it’s easy to see why. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The menu features an array of traditional Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and yakitori, all of which are expertly prepared using only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant also offers an omakase experience, which is a traditional Japanese meal where the chef serves a series of small dishes.

2. Faccia Brutta

Nestled in Newbury Street, Boston, Faccia Brutta is one of the city’s most popular restaurants. The name means “ugly face” in Italian, and it refers to the restaurant’s unusual exterior, which features a large patio and a colorful mural.

Faccia Brutta is known for its coastal Italian menu and patio scene. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, including pasta, seafood, and meat. The restaurants downtown Boston are known for their romantic ambiance, and Faccia Brutta is no exception. The vibe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a romantic spot for an intimate dinner for two, business lunch meetings, or a place to enjoy the patio scene with friends, this place has it all.

3. Chickadee

If you’re looking for a delicious Mediterranean-inspired meal in the heart of Boston, look no further than Chickadee. This award-winning restaurant is a true Seaport hotspot, serving up tantalizing New England-born dishes with a Mediterranean twist. The ingredients are sourced from local farms, markets, and producers, ensuring that every dish is packed with flavor. The lunch menu features pitas stuffed with everything from fried hake to pickled peppers and zhoug. For those looking for something heartier, there are a number of pasta dishes to choose from. And don’t forget to try one of their signature cocktails – they’re sure to hit the spot.

4. Yvonne’s

This elegant spot is known for its super club dining experience, complete with a 19th-century mahogany bar and the same clubby ambiance. The award-winning menu and bar offer an exclusive selection of wine and champagne, making it the perfect place to enjoy a special night out.

The atmosphere is upscale but still welcoming, and the food is absolutely amazing. The menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new to try, but some of their signature dishes include lobster mac and cheese, truffle fries, and short ribs. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy a night out with friends, Yvonne’s is sure to please.

5. Mooncusser

If you’re looking for a truly unique seafood dining experience, look no further than Mooncusser. Located in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, this restaurant is known for its creative seafood dishes and stunning waterfront views. The menu features seven appetizers and eight entrees, all of which showcase the best of what Boston’s seafood scene has to offer. The seafood is fresh and inventive, and the prices are surprisingly affordable for such a high-quality restaurant. The service is also top-notch, and the staff is always happy to make wine recommendations.

6. Mamma Maria

Mamma Maria offers an extensive menu of classic and contemporary Italian dishes, all of which are prepared with the freshest ingredients. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list, featuring both Italian and international wines. Mamma Maria is located in the heart of downtown Boston, making it easy to get to from anywhere in the city. The dining room is spacious and elegantly appointed, and the service is always attentive and professional.

7. Krasi

Krasi occupies the former Cafe Jaffa space in the city’s Back Bay neighborhood. The restaurant is named after the Greek word for wine, and it features a menu of modern Greek cuisine prepared to perfection. From the vibrant starters to the delicious desserts, Krasi offers something for everyone. And with its convenient location downtown, Krasi is the perfect place to enjoy a meal before exploring all that Boston has to offer.

8. Hunter’s Kitchen + Bar

Ranked 8th on Timeout’s list of the best restaurants in Boston, Hunter’s offers a tantalizing menu of American classics with a modern twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a comforting bowl of mac and cheese, or a decadent chocolate cake, Hunter’s has something to satisfy your appetite. And wash it all down with one of their signature cocktails or a glass of wine from their impressive list of rotating wines by the glass.

9. Bistro du Midi

Bistro du Midi is one of the best restaurants in Boston, offering stunning views of the city’s Back Bay and a menu full of French-inspired cuisine. The restaurant is located on two floors, with the upper floor featuring a wine cellar stocked with wines from Burgundy and Bordeaux. Guests can enjoy a light snack or a seven-course tasting menu, both of which showcase the restaurants’ French-accented fare. The dishes are expertly prepared and served with care, making Bistro du Midi a dining experience that is not to be missed.

10. Woods Hill Pier 4

Woods Hill Pier 4 is sure to impress if you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy a night out with friends. Located in Boston’s Seaport district, the restaurant is known for its farm-to-table dining, using only organic, non-GMO ingredients. The menu features modern, seasonal dishes made with meat from local farms that raise animals ethically using organic and grass-based feeds. The result is a menu of nutritious and delicious meals. In addition to its excellent food, Woods Hill Pier 4 also offers stunning views of Boston Harbor.

11. Hecate

Upon walking into Hecate, you’re immediately transported to another world – one of mystical enchantment, where your cocktail bartender acts as your spirit guide through a menu of stylish drinks, each more delicious (and potent) than the last. The atmosphere is mysterious and sexy, with just the right amount of light and shadows to set the mood. No detail has been overlooked, from the carved wooden floors to the ornate chandeliers. It’s no wonder Hecate has been named the coolest bar in Boston – if you’re looking for an unforgettable evening out, this is the place to be.

12. Grill 23 & Bar

Grill 23 & Bar is one of the best steakhouses in Boston. The restaurant is cozy and inviting, with dark wood floors and walls lined with wine bottles. The menu features classic steakhouse dishes like filet mignon and lobster tails, as well as a selection of seafood and vegetarian entrees. Grill 23 also has an award-winning wine selection from all over the world. The waitstaff is knowledgeable and eager to help you find the perfect pairing for your meal.

13. Menton

Menton is a contemporary French- and Italian-inspired restaurant in Boston, named after a town on the Côte d’Azur. The menu features a range of inventive dishes, and the chef’s whim-tasting menu is a must-try for serious foodies. Highlights from the regular menu include sea urchin with green apple and fennel and roasted chicken with black truffle and parmesan. The dining room is elegant and understated, with a chef’s table that provides views of the kitchen through a glass wall. Service is professional and attentive, making Menton one of the best restaurants in Boston. The service is professional and attentive, and the wine list is extensive and includes both new and old-world wines.

14. Da La Posta

Among the restaurants downtown Boston restaurants, Da La Posta is a standout. This pizzeria is known for its delicious pies, all of which are made from scratch with the freshest ingredients. The bread, cheeses, and sauces are all made from scratch, giving each pizza its unique flavor. In addition to its great food, Da La Posta also has an inviting atmosphere, with warm and welcoming staff.

15. Deuxave

If you’re looking for a downtown Boston restaurant that offers a sophisticated yet relaxed dining experience, Deuxave is a great option. The menu features contemporary French fare, and the wine list includes champagne and caviar. Highlights from the dinner menu include spiced duck breast and French onion soup. The soup is simmered for many hours and has a deep, rich flavor. Deuxave also offers an extensive dessert menu, so you can indulge your sweet tooth after your meal.

16. Harvest

This Harvard Square stalwart serves contemporary American cuisine that is both locally sourced and expertly cooked. The seasonal menu features homemade kinds of pasta and locally-sourced seafood and meats. The seafood is fresh and the meats are cooked to perfection, making Harvest a stalwart of Harvard Square dining. The garden terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends. Whether you’re enjoying a meal indoors or al fresco, Harvest offers New England dining at its best.

17. Celeste

Celeste is a Peruvian restaurant located in Boston, within walking distance from Union Square. The open kitchen allows diners to watch as their lomo saltado, ceviche, or causa is prepared. The restaurant also offers mezcal-based cocktails. Celeste’s experienced bartenders are happy to make recommendations based on diners’ preferences. The food at Celeste is fresh and flavorful, and the restaurant has a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Celeste is one of the best restaurants in Boston.

18. Shojo

Shojo offers a delicious and modern Asian dining experience in downtown Boston. This restaurant is located in the heart of Chinatown and offers a unique take on traditional Asian cuisine. The menu features small sharable plates that are perfect for sharing with friends, as well as seasonal cocktails that are sure to please. And if you’re looking for something a little bit different, try one of their Japanese spirit-infused drinks.

19. Alden & Harlow

Located on Brattle Street in Harvard Square, Alden & Harlow features the best American food in the city. Its laid-back vibe is perfect for a night out with friends. The multi-room dining and drinking space feature wood and brick walls, glass lanterns, and an open kitchen. The chef, Michael Scelfo, is a James Beard Award winner, and the restaurant has been praised by critics for its delicious food and wonderful atmosphere.

20. Ilona

This lively restaurant and lounge bar features authentic Eastern Mediterranean cuisine influenced by traditional dishes from Georgia, Turkey, Lebanon, and beyond. The restaurant’s diverse menu includes meruli khachapuri (Georgian cheese-stuffed bread) and shish barak (phyllo stuffed with lamb and onions). Other noteworthy signature dishes include the cigeri hummus with chicken livers and the eggplant kofta. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring both domestic and international wines. Ilona is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends or family or to simply relax with a drink after a long day.

Wrapping Up

Boston is a food lover’s paradise, and these restaurants are some of the best in the city. If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, be sure to check out any of these great places the next time you’re in Boston. And if you need help finding the perfect property in Boston, consult our property experts at Ardor Homes Massachusetts. We would be happy to help you find a home near your favorite restaurant!

Steph Wilkinson

In her 25-year career, Steph Wilkinson has been involved in the acquisition, marketing and sales of over $3 Billion dollars of residential real estate. A number of years ago, Steph transitioned into Brokerage Leadership for National real estate brands and tech start-ups. She has served as a Business Strategist for real estate agents and brokerages alike and is also a real estate coach and trainer. In her new role with the Iconic Team, Steph will be responsible for the growth of the team and will be working with all of our agents to increase their productivity and bottom line.