Boston is known for its Revolutionary History, fanatic sports scene, and pub culture for sure, as well as its famed Little Italy neighborhood, also known as the North End. However, beyond the pizzas and pubs lies an incredible culinary landscape waiting to be explored!
When planning your trip to Boston, especially from a food perspective, the search feed is often flooded with the North End. Why? Because it’s awesome and has tons of incredible Italian restaurants, bakeries and markets to boast. But, hear us out, Boston’s culinary scene goes WAY beyond the North End. So if you plan through your palate like we do, definitely get your pasta and cannoli from the North End, but be sure to venture to some of Boston’s other amazing food neighborhoods for things like Korean-Mexican Fusion, Authentic Soup Dumplings, Armenian-Lebanese Fare and so much more. One of the best ways to explore a neighborhood is through a Boston food tour. Join us for one in the South End, Downtown or Chinatown!
The South End
The South End is truly one of the hidden gems in Boston. This neighborhood is filled with tons of history, beautiful architecture and a wide array of cuisines! Built as a result of a massive landfilling project, the neighborhood has been home to a large, diverse group of immigrants and has undergone quite a change since its creation. As a historic district of Boston (but also, one that has not always been protected as such) the South End became home to architecture and a community that you can’t see anywhere else. Because of the history of the neighborhood, the food you’ll find is as diverse as it comes, representing many different cultures and local chefs.
Restaurants to Visit:
Anoush’ella, The Elephant Walk, Bootleg Special, Myers + Chang, Burro Bar, Formaggio Kitchen, Flour Bakery, Brick Street Bagels, Coppa, Kava
If you want to check out multiple of these places at once, join us for a Boston walking tour of the South End neighborhood!
Chinatown
Boston’s vibrant Chinatown neighborhood is rich with culture, history, and flavor! In this neighborhood, you’ll stroll along the very streets where Chinatown was first established, uncovering the fascinating stories behind Chinese immigration to the United States and its unique journey to Boston. As you explore, you’ll dive into the culinary traditions that define the area, savoring everything from authentic Chinese dishes to beloved Chinese-American favorites. Along the way, you’ll also experience innovative creations crafted by the talented second-generation families who continue to shape Chinatown’s thriving restaurant scene. Get ready for a journey that offers you a deeper appreciation for one of Boston’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
Restaurants to Visit:
Double Chin, Taiwan Cafe, Shojo, China Pearl, Bao Bao Bakery, Bubble Waffle Lady, Pho Pasteur, Peach Farm
If you want to check out multiple of these places at once, join us for a Boston walking tour of Boston’s Chinatown!
Downtown
Boston’s Downtown is a treasure trove of revolutionary history, offering a glimpse into the events that helped shape the nation. But as you walk along the iconic Freedom Trail, you’ll find more than just historic landmarks—you’ll encounter some of the best examples of Boston’s most iconic dishes. From the savory aromas of clam chowder to the sweet temptation of Boston cream pie, the area is a paradise for food lovers. Explore the vibrant streets of Downtown Boston and immerse yourself in a journey that blends history, culture, and cuisine. There’s no better way to experience the heart of the city than by discovering its rich past and indulging in its mouthwatering flavors. Let Downtown Boston surprise and delight you in a truly unforgettable—and delicious—way!
Restaurants to Visit:
Ned Devine’s, The Bell in Hand Tavern, Bostonia Public House, Union Oyster House, Beantown Pub, James Hook & Co., Yvonne’s
If you want to check out multiple of these places at once, join us for a Boston walking tour of the Downtown!
Charlestown
Tucked just across the harbor from Downtown, Charlestown is one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, and home to two stops on the Freedom Trail. But–don’t let its cobblestone charm and Revolutionary War history fool you. This neighborhood is buzzing with culinary creativity and local flavor that makes it a hidden gem for food lovers. Charlestown’s dining scene beautifully blends old and new. You’ll find cozy, family-owned taverns with roots going back generations alongside modern restaurants led by some of Boston’s most exciting chefs. The neighborhood is known for its welcoming, community feel and you don’t want to miss it!
Photo Credit: Monument
Restaurants to Visit:
Waverly, Brewer’s Fork, Dovetail, Monument, Prima, Ward 8
Brookline
Bordering Boston but with a distinct charm all its own, Brookline is a food lover’s dream, especially for those who appreciate heritage cuisine, neighborhood warmth, and a global dining scene. One of the standout features of Brookline’s culinary identity is its strong Jewish cultural presence, especially in neighborhoods like Coolidge Corner. Here you’ll find legendary Jewish delis, bakeries and shops that have become the cornerstones of the community. But Brookline doesn’t stop there. It’s also home to innovative, international cuisine from Korean Barbeque and Thai street food to modern Mediterranean plates and farm-to-table cafes. The dining scene reflects the area’s diversity and curiosity, all set against a backdrop of tree-lined streets, independent bookstores and historic brownstones. (Photo Credit: Zaftig’s)
Restaurants to Visit:
Zaftig’s, Mamaleh’s, Kupel’s, Genki Ya, Shan-A-Punjab, Taberna de Haro, Orinoco, Gyu-Kaku
Allston
If you’re craving culinary adventure, Allston is where Boston gets bold. Known for its youthful energy and creative spirit, this eclectic neighborhood serves up some of the most exciting, flavor-packed food in the city–with Korean cuisine and inventive fusion leading the way. Allston is home to a thriving Korean food scene, from sizzling bulgogi and hot stone bibimbap to crispy Korean fried chicken and late-night tteokbokki, the flavors here are vibrant, authentic, and absolutely crave-worthy. Many spots are family-owned, giving diners a true taste of tradition with a side of warm hospitality. But what really sets Allston apart is its fusion-forward mindset: think kimchi quesadillas and Korean-style poke bowls. Blending cultures and cuisines to create something totally original and wildly delicious is not uncommon here!
Photo Credit: Coreanos
Restaurants to Visit:
Kimchipapi, Coreanos, Kaju Tofu, Lone Star Taco Bar, Carlo’s Cucina Italiana, Sloane’s, The Scoop N Scootery
While there may be a number of food tours in Boston, Massachusetts that visit the North End, we’d love to show you around a lesser known culinary haven in Boston!
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