This summer, I was back living and working in my home city of Bahston (as the locals say), and you already know I was eating wicked good. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy nature–and by enjoy nature, I mean eat some tasty food in some adorable locations. All summer long, I performed important research by taste-testing countless cafes, coffee shops, diners, and dives, and I have reached my final conclusions. Here are the best Boston restaurants to have a delish meal with some cute lil' summer vibes

#1. Cafeteria Boston

If my school cafeteria had had food like this, you BEST bet I would have never graduated. Cafeteria Boston is where the comfort food of yesterday gets schooled by the flavors of today to create a dining experience that is “tray chic!" Sit yourself down on their adorable shady patio right in the middle of Newbury Street, and enjoy everything from burgers to mac and cheese, to a Sunday brunch complete with blood orange lemonade and breakfast pizza (my personal faves).

#2. Citrus & Salt

Y'all already KNOW that I am a superfan of Mexican food, so this new Boston hot spot was high on my list to try out. Citrus & Salt did not disappoint. Located right in the heart of Back Bay, covered in string lights, succulents, and pink booths, this restaurant looks like it was designed in my dreams. And the food's not so bad itself - agave biscuits and avocado tacos? I think yes.

#3. Earls

Earls is just a great restaurant. That's my entire review. Sushi, steaks, tacos, sangria, BBQ, rice bowls...anything you could honestly possibly want, Earls has it and it is GREAT. Perfect for a post-work happy hour, a late-night stop, or a GNO. So basically I would live here if I could. I want it all!

#4. Stephanie's On Newbury

I have been lunching with my grandparents here since I was a little girl, and Stephanie's On Newbury never fails to serve up a tasty meal. This chic sidewalk cafe and Newbury institution serves up an amazing lobster roll with a perfect side of people watching. Enjoy a long lunch on a summer afternoon! 

#5. Committee

There are two kinds of people– Greeks, and people who wish they were Greek. Committee is the perfect restaurant for both kinds of people. Located right on the water in Seaport, Committee offers meals with the sun shining and the breeze blowing in from the harbor. Oh, and did I mention the food? Gyros and spanakopita for lunch, souvlaki, and kabobs for dinner, and–my favorite–fried zucchini crisps. Proud to say I ate an entire order on my own. Thanks to my fans.  

Whether you're dining at one of these restaurants or simply picnicking on the Boston Common, Boston is a city that knows what summer is all about. Enjoy that summer sun and spend as much time (eating) outside as you can. Good food, good mood–eat up before fall rolls around!