In a city as big as Boston, it can be hard to get from one area to another, especially if you are not used to driving. It feels like there are countless neighborhoods throughout Boston, and even though you know that there’s good food wherever you go it’s not always easy to find.
For those days where you don’t want to drive from Allston to the North End for your favorite burger, here’s a list of 11 neighborhoods’ most popular restaurants.
South End
1. Beehive
Photo by Sophie Clingan-Darack
At this upbeat restaurant, you can listen to a live band while enjoying their unique food creations. Beehive has also swooned the brunch lovers in town.
2. Torro
Photo Courtesy of @askar_baitassov on Instagram
This Spanish-inspired restaurant is perfect for going out with friends, and provides perfect sized plates to share with them.
3. The Gallows
Photo Courtesy of @thegallowsboston on Instagram
This restaurant brings a twist to the table, but if you’re a no frills kind of person their simple yet delicious burgers will do the trick.
4. Five Horses Tavern
Photo Courtesy of @5horsestavern on Instagram
If you can’t bear the thought of spending your whole paycheck on a meal don’t worry. This tavern is affordable but leaves nothing lacking in taste, and you can’t go wrong with their $6 tacos. You’ll soon realize that every day can and should be taco Tuesday.
North End
1. Prezza
Photo Courtesy of @thediningplaybook on Instagram
No matter where you go in the North End, it will be an Italian restaurant. Prezza offers a contemporary menu if you are looking for something beyond a quick spaghetti and meatballs.
2. Panza
Photo Courtesy of @spoon_boston on Instagram
Calling all carb-lovers, enjoy Panza’s seemingly never-ending pasta menu.
3. Giacomo’s Ristorante
Photo Courtesy of @maissofly on Instagram
When anyone thinks of the North End, Giacomo’s always to mind. This restaurant is the epitome of rustic Italian cuisine. But beware, they do not take reservations, so do not be surprised when they tell you it will be an hour and a half before you are seated.
Back Bay
1. Stephanie’s On Newbury
Photo Courtesy of @stephaniesonnew
Famous for comfort food and fancy cocktails, Stephanie’s never disappoints. But when they are fully booked on Friday and Saturday night, don’t be too bummed out. Just down the street is Cafeteria, which has a similar menu with mouth-watering mac and cheese and burgers.
2. Mistral Bistro
Photo Courtesy of @mistralrestaurant on Instagram
This French-Mediterranean restaurant might break the bank, but it has some of the most delicious food in the Back Bay. Bon appétit.
3. Itadaki
Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com user Shirley Y.
Many come for the picturesque scorpion bowls, but true sushi fans come for the restaurants signature dish. They’re also famous for their sushi pizza and their tapas Japanese plates.
Beacon Hill
1. Figs
Photo Courtesy of @eastcoastfeastcoast on Instagram
This upscale pizza will absolutely blow your mind (not your wallet). If by some crazy chance you hate pizza, don’t knock this off your list because they also serve up delicious pasta.
2. 75 Chestnut
Photo Courtesy of 75 Chestnut via Facebook
This American restaurant may be pretty to look at but the food is even better. After the meal, you can enjoy a walk up the historical Beacon Hill.
3. Toscano Beacon Hill
Photo Courtesy of @the_brunch_brunch on Instagram
If you can’t make it to the North End, no worries. This Italian restaurant gets the job done.
South Boston
1. Sportello
Photo Courtesy of @sportelloboston on Instagram
Another great Italian restaurant that will never disappoint you.
2. 75 on Liberty Wharf
Photo Courtesy of Yelp.com user Jessica L.
Overlooking the harbor, this restaurant is the perfect summer destination. You can sit outside and enjoy fresh caught fish.
3. Lincoln Tavern
Photo Courtesy of @lincolnsouthbos
Home to classic American dishes, this is the perfect place for anyone looking to spend a night out with friends and good, hearty food.
Financial District
1. Trade
Photo Courtesy of @tradeboston
Add some spice to your life with this Mediterranean-American restaurant’s zesty menu.
2. Les Zygomates
Photo Courtesy of @bostonfoodieguide
This French-inspired restaurant is also a well-known wine bar, so if you want to unwind from work with a nice glass of red, this is the place to do it.
3. Merchant
Photo Courtesy of @foodpornboston on Instagram
Their bar menu has anything and everything you have ever dreamed of from poutine to wings. No cravings are left unsatisfied.
Kenmore/Fenway
1. Tiger Mama
Photo Courtesy of @thebeardedbruncher on Instagram
This Vietnamese restaurant is definitely not for those who enjoy simple dishes. They offer very unique plates and an adventurous dining experience.
2. Island Creek Oyster Bar
Photo Courtesy of @localwise.boston on Instagram
If seafood is not your thing, you better skip this all-shellfish place, but if you’re an ocean-lover it is definitely a must try.
3. Eastern Standard
Photo Courtesy of @bostonfoodies on Instagram
One of the founders of Island Creek Oyster also owns this restaurant and a couple others, and it’s safe to say this spot is as good as the rest of them. If you’re having trouble choosing, don’t worry. They are literally located next to each other so you can eat at both in the same day.
4. Loretta’s Last Call
Photo Courtesy of loretta’slastcall.com
Not only does this joint serve up great southern dishes, but they also have live performances all night long.
Waterfront
1. Nebo
Photo Courtesy of @bostonfoodieguide on Instagram
Some of the best authentic Italian food outside the North End, and being right next to the water is just a bonus.
2. Rowes Wharf Sea Grille
Photo Courtesy of roweswharfseagrille.com
Another amazing seafood restaurant, but who can blame Boston for having so many when we have the Atlantic ocean as our neighbor.
East Boston
1. KO Pies at the Shipyard
Photo Courtesy of @kocatering_pies on Instagram
Although no one’s sure what there is to do in East Boston, KO Pies has definitely shown up on people’s radars. And no, these are not the dessert pies, they actually serve a variety of Australia’s famous meat pies.
Charlestown
1. Warren Tavern
Photo Courtesy of warrentavern.com
If you’re looking for a simple meal in the historical Charlestown, this is the spot to go. Not only is the picturesque tavern every Instagramer’s dream, the sandwiches are incredible.
2. Brewer’s Fork
Photo Courtesy of @phantomgourmet on Instagram
If you’re the type whose ideal dinner consists of a beer and a slice of pizza, this is the place for you.
Brookline
1. LiNEaGe Restaurant
Photo Courtesy of @lineagesnaps on Instagram
No, that’s not a typo. You can expect fantastic American meals with a twist, but you can also expect high price tags.
2. The Publick House
Photo Courtesy of @thepublickhouse on Instagram
This restaurant serves up some of the best beer in Boston, so if you are looking for a relaxed dinner environment, this is the place for you.
3. The Abbey
Photo Courtesy of @bostonfoodies on Instagram
If you are just looking for something to hold you over until your next big meal, grab some of The Abbey’s delicious bar bites.
Allston
1. Deep Ellum
Photo Courtesy of @deepellumboston on Instagram
Located in the trendy Allston area, this gastropub serves classic foods with a twist and offers a long list of drinks you have probably never tried before.
2. Lone Star Taco Bar
Photo Courtesy of @lonestarallston on Instagram
If you’re wondering how this Mexican spot can top Chipotle, just grab a taco or burrito from the Deep Ellum sister restaurant and you will get your answer.
3. LuLu’s Allston
Photo Courtesy of @lulusallston on Instagram
Although they are famous for their brunch, Lulu’s also serves up a mean dinner. If you’ve never been to the South, this is some of the best Southern food above the Mason-Dixon line.