It’s finally summer in Boston. People are putting away their down coats for the next few months and braving the outdoors at last. Everyone wants to soak up the sun here while they can, which makes it perfect picnicking season. Check out these great restaurants where you can get your food to go, along with the best place to spread your blanket and dig in.
1. Tenoch
Photo by Monica Zunick
You’d never expect Boston’s most authentic Mexican restaurant to be in the North End… but it is! This hole in the wall spot that flies under the radar in a spot known for Italian food is not only delicious, but great for a college budget. Get a few things to share among friends and walk just five minutes down to the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park to enjoy the views of the Boston waterfront.
2. Boston Burger Company
Photo by Monica Zunick
This ‘fancy’ restaurant in the world of college students is the place to go for a burger with heaping toppings. The menu boasts about 30 different kinds of burgers. Instead of just picking one – make your favorite foodie friend come and split two with you. Get your burgers to go from the location on Boylston and and enjoy them at the Esplanade near the Mass Ave bridge. Plan to go around sunset for killer views.
3. Thai Basil
Photo by Monica Zunick
It’s easy to miss this restaurant on Newbury, but now that you know about it, do yourself a favor next time after shopping and make sure to stop by. The dimly lit restaurant isn’t always the scene for a hot summer day, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on their food too. Get your Pad Thai, drunken noodles, or coconut curry to go and enjoy them at the Boston Public Garden.
4. Monica’s Mercato
Photo courtesy of @ariweinnn on Instagram
The huge subs here are enough to feed an army… well not quite, but they’re certainly perfect for sharing among a couple friends! Stop by the authentic market, and any of the pastry shops near by and you’re set. Get a taste of the historic side of Boston and head to the park, which is part of the Freedom Trail, behind the Old North Church. The park is also accessible from Hanover street between Charter street and North Bennet street.
5. American Provisions
Photo courtesy of @the_fishers_wife on Instagram
This market has everything you could ever need from freshly made sandwiches, to cheese, to produce, and wine and beer. Order to go and enjoy feasting on the mouthwatering food at Lawn on D. You can even get a cute picture enjoying your food in one of the light up swings at the park.
6. Gyro City
Photo by Nicole Lacasse
This authentic Greek Grill is well know as a spot to grab a quick bite before or after a Red Sox game… but it’s really perfect for any night you need to satisfy your salty craving. If you’re not sure what to order, go for a couple different plates or sandwiches among friends and try it all. Enjoy the outdoor picnic tables they have, or walk to the Fens and find a nice spot to enjoy your French fry filled gyro.
7. Blunch
Photo by Monica Zunick
As good as Blunch’s sandwiches are, space is not their strong suit. Since it’s usually pretty crowded, get your sandwich and or pastries to go. Walk through the quaint and quiet South End and head over to Franklin Square or Blackstone Square, connected to enjoy your food.
8. Bagelsaurus
Photo by Monica Zunick
Although Bagelsaurus is not technically in Boston, it’s worth the trek to Cambridge. Pick a breakfast sandwich off the menu or get creative and mix and match with various spreads and fillers. If you can’t get a spot inside, opt for the steps in front of the Lunder Arts Center or walk to Raymond park nearby!
9. Jugos
Photo by Monica Zunick
Smoothie bowls and juices that can practically transport you to the tropics. The unbeatable smoothies make up for the lack of space in JUGOS. Grab what you ordered as fast as possible and walk right across the street to the Southwest Corridor Path, you can’t miss it, for a casual and convenient place to sit down and have your food before it melts!
10. b.good
Photo by Monica Zunick
Whether you get a burger or one of their huge salads, ordering from b.good will leave you feeling full but refreshed too. If you visit the location in Cambridge, all you have to do is cross the street and enjoy your food with a side of people watching at Harvard Yard.
11. Sweetgreen
Photo by Nancy Chen
Order a heaping salad or grain bowl from Sweetgreen for when you need a satisfying meal, but want to feel like you’re making an attempt at being healthy. If you visit the location in the Prudential, avoid the temptation of digging in inside surrounded by teenagers and tourists and head out to the courtyard for a far more enjoyable lunch or dinner.
12. Tatte
Photo by Nicole Lacasse
To be honest, I still don’t know the correct pronunciation of this restaurant, but that’s no reason not to visit it. Finding a seat here can be a bit of a toss up, so ask for your brunch to go and walk just under 10 minutes down to the DCR’s Hatch Memorial Shell (aka the Hatch Shell) to enjoy your breakfast with a little breeze from the water.
13. Whole Heart Provisions
Photo by Nancy Chen
Do your body and the planet a favor by getting your next lunch here. Getting your lunch to go couldn’t be easier. Then walk over to Ringer Park for a perfect meal soaking up some Vitamin D.