No one can deny how wicked awesome Massachusetts is. There’s Boston, the Berkshires, the Cape, and, of course, many other towns that founded some of America’s favorite foods. New England is known for its seafood, that’s true, but you’d be surprised at everything that calls MA home. So, as an MA native, on behalf of the mother-state, you’re welcome.
Dunkin’ Donuts
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Starting off with a classic, this one probably doesn’t come as a surprise. The first Dunkin’ Donuts was opened in Quincy, MA in 1950. Bostonians are known for ordering Dunkin’s iced coffee whether it’s 80 or 20 degrees outside. We’re not afraid of the cold; we just want our freakin’ iced coffee.
Fluff
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The name of the sandwich might differ, but the love for it is constant throughout. In Massachusetts, it’s called a “Fluffernutter,” and it’s delicious. The main reason for that is the marshmallow fluff that you never quite stop craving. Fluff was invented in 1917 in good ol’ Somerville and was first manufactured in Lynn.
Cape Cod Potato Chips
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Yet another classic. No summer barbecue or picnic is complete without a few bowls of potato chips. The perfect potato chip has just the right crunch, and Cape Cod Potato Chips always deliver. Whether you want Sweet Mesquite Barbecue, Salt and Vinegar, or Classic, these chips never disappoint. This snack was created in 1980 in Hyannis.
J. P. Licks
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Sticking with the summer theme, the first J. P. Licks store opened in Jamaica Plain in 1981. When you see that picture of the smiling cow, you know you’re in for a treat. This chain is known for its unique ice cream flavors, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Ice cream, frozen yogurt, or a frappe (that’s MA for milkshake) — everything is delicious.
Toll House
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Yes, everyone, America’s favorite cookies were invented right here in Massachusetts. In Whitman in the 1930s, the chocolate chip cookie was born at the Toll House Inn. And the world would never be the same again. Baking has never been easier with Toll House cookie dough (if you actually decide to bake it before you eat it).
Cranberries
Photo by Claire Hurley
Thanksgiving was born in Massachusetts. But we didn’t just give the country one of the greatest days of the year — we also gave the country one of the best parts of said holiday: cranberry sauce. Yup, believe it or not, cranberries were first planted on Cape Cod in the early 1800s. Now, sure, Wisconsin might now be known as more of a cranberry state, but these berries will never forget where their roots are.
Bertucci’s
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Two words: Bread. Rolls. This beloved restaurant chain was first founded in Somerville in 1981. You could trek into the North End of Boston to the Italian district, or if you don’t have the luxury of having easy access to the city, you can stop into Bertucci’s for some delicious brick oven pizza.
Baked Beans
Photo by Kelly Logan
There’s a reason Boston is called “The Bean” or “Beantown.” Sometimes Bostonians really want to be Southern. We’re preppy, and we go to way too many country concerts (if you follow anyone from Boston on Instagram, you know what I’m talking about.) But the two groups clearly have a connection: we passed along the gift of baked beans. Originally created by Native Americans and passed on to the pilgrims, Boston Baked Beans are made with maple syrup or molasses.
Beer
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Sam Adams was founded in Boston in 1984 and is now one of the largest American-owned beer companies to date. Harpoon Brewery was founded in Boston in 1986. You’re welcome. Just, you’re welcome. Us Bostonians know how to stay thirsty, my friends.
Boston Cream Pie
Photo by Joey Teodosio
This one is even less of a surprise than Dunkin, obviously. Originally served in 1856 in, you guessed it, Boston, Boston Cream Pie is the official dessert of Massachusetts. This treat is loved from coast to coast and will always remain a classic.
A small but mighty state, Massachusetts is home to some amazing inventions. Don’t get me wrong, if you visit MA, get some seafood. I recommend fried clams at Woodman’s if you can (all you North Shore readers know what I’m talking about). But the genius doesn’t stop there. Next time you’re enjoying one of these foods or drinks, send a little love to the Bay State.