Calling art nerds and brunch enthusiasts: spend the perfect day walking through galleries in Boston museums and grabbing a bite afterward. These five museums also have great eatery options you won’t want to miss.
1. Museum of Fine Arts
New American Cafe
Visit the New American Cafe located in the middle of the museum’s glass-enclosed indoor courtyard if you prefer to dine in a sit-down restaurant. Complete with an espresso bar, guests can enjoy a full meal in the open-space cafe. The New American Cafe has a seasonal menu while also serving regular regional dishes to keep your dining experience exciting.
Taste Cafe & Wine Bar
For a light snack, go to Taste Cafe where you can enjoy a variety of in the bustling space. Located next to the museum shop, this tucked-away-in-a-corner cafe is perfect for a to-go cup of coffee. Attendees of any program held at the Remis Auditorium can bring in food items purchased from this cafe.
(Pro-tip: both cafes also serve exhibition-inspired food items that change accordingly).
2. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Cafe G
Stroll around the serene, beautiful courtyard, admire the eclectic paintings from the Medieval times, and sit down to enjoy a nice brunch session in Cafe G. Using organic and local ingredients, the cafe features dishes from Chef Peter Crowley. With seasonal menus, there is a patio open during warmer months for visitors. If you already have a plan to visit this cafe, you can make a reservation before coming in.
3. Harvard Art Museums
Jenny’s Cafe
This casual cafe in the indoor courtyard of the museum serves a range of food items for a quick coffee run or a wholesome meal. With natural lighting coming from the skylit atrium, this cafe has a chill vibe, making it a personal favorite. Located near the two entrances, you will not need admission tickets to chill in this modern cafe. This place serves as an open space that invites open minds.
4. Boston Tea Party and Ships Museum
Abigail’s Tearoom
Looking for a place to have an afternoon tea? Abigail’s Tearoom offers guests the option to sample up to 5 historic teas with a snack bar and a simple lunch menu. Enjoy a view of the scenic waterfront as you sip your drink in a Victorian-inspired setting. Visitors can choose to join the historical hour-long tour of the museum before coming to the tearoom, or skip the museum to enjoy just the cafe.
5. Museum of Science
Riverview Cafe
Grab a quick bite in this cafeteria-like cafe with views of the Charles River. This place offers a range of food stations where you can enjoy Mexican and American food, grilled dishes, and salad from the bar. Served by Wolfgang Puck Catering, you won’t go wrong with the choices offered here.
These cafes will inspire you to ponder over the meaning of that painting by Fragonard as you look at others, wondering if they think of the same perspective as you.