Best Pre-Theater Restaurants in Chestnut Hill

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchMexican

Regions

Boston

Neighborhoods

Back BayBeacon HillCambridgeDowntown CrossingSouth BostonSouth End

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

29 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Harvest

4.6

Exceptional(5318)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Cambridge

Booked 57 times today

A steady Harvard Square presence for almost 50 years, Harvest embodies the ever-evolving spirit of Cambridge and deep respect for culinary tradition. Our seasonal menus marry the innovation of contemporary cooking with a timeless respect for American culinary traditions and an emphasis on local farmers and purveyors. Our spacious bar, fireside dining, and hidden gem of a patio each offer a welcome reprieve from the fast-paced world happening just outside our doors.Serving Lunch, Dinner, and Saturday/Sunday Brunch with seating on our seasonal outdoor Garden Terrace. We highly recommend making a reservation; outside tables are available weather permitting and may be requested but cannot be reserved or guaranteed. Harvest offers Private Dining from 15 to 60 people. Sit-down lunches, dinners, and receptions are just some of the Private Functions Harvest can provide.

2. South End Buttery

4.5

Awesome(2453)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Contemporary American • South End

Booked 17 times today

South End Buttery is a neighborhood eat-in and take-away bakery/cafe by day and full bar/restaurant by night. The Buttery's award-winning food has a reputation for combining seasonal, local ingredients to create exceptional everyday food at everyday prices. The Buttery takes casual fine dining to new heights, with classic comfort food as well as dishes for the health and calorie conscious that pair beautifully with the affordable wine and beer selections. You'll feel like you're dining in your own home – but you won’t have to do the dishes!

3. The Berkeley

4.5

Awesome(51)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• French American • Back Bay

Booked 9 times today

The Berkeley Bistro + Bar, located in Boston's Back Bay neighborhood, serves New England classic dishes with a touch of French-bistro inspiration, crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Pair your meal with an expertly prepared cocktail or a selection from our thoughtfully curated wine list.Whether you're planning a casual gathering or a special occasion, The Berkeley provides the perfect setting. Enjoy the lively atmosphere on our Bar Side—or opt for our Dining Room side— where a refined bistro-style experience awaits.Weather permitting, The Berkeley’s outdoor terraces offer a charming al fresco setting. Please note that outdoor seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted.The Berkeley is located within Hotel AKA Back Bay. Visit theberkeleyboston.com to explore seasonal menus, hours, private event options, and weekly happenings.

A photo of Petit Robert Bistro Columbus Avenue restaurant

4. Petit Robert Bistro Columbus Avenue

4.7

Exceptional(2740)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• French • South End

Booked 32 times today

With a casual atmosphere and a classic menu, Petit Robert Bistro feels like an authentic French bistro. Established in 2005 in the South End of Boston, Petit Robert Bistro has become an institution in the neighborhood! Our patio is one of the most beautiful and comfortable places in Boston. Our Chef Chris Ipus HAS created an authentic and very interesting menu that changes every season.Bon Appetit!

5. SOURCE Restaurant

4.6

Exceptional(613)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Pizza Bar • Cambridge

Booked 37 times today

SOURCE is a fresh, modern approach to the local gastro pub and pizza bar. Source is an innovative dining destination featuring rustic yet refined food, and an unmatched craft and local beverage program. Utilizing local and sustainable products and only the purest ingredients, SOURCE’s mission is to embrace the root of who we are and what we consume. Owned by Restaurant veteran Daniel Roughan, SOURCE offers guests the space to enjoy delicious quality authentic Neapolitan-style pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven. In addition to pizza SOURCE will offer an assortment of small plates, entrees and homemade desserts. SOURCE will be open daily for lunch and dinner as well offering an unforgettable brunch experience both Saturdays and Sundays. Welcome home, Welcome to SOURCE.

6. Metropolis Cafe

4.9

Exceptional(1618)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • South End

Booked 34 times today

Metropolis Café, nestled in Boston’s Historic South End with views of lively Tremont Street, combines fine dining and warm hospitality at casual prices. Our dinner menu features favorites like Rigatoni, Pan Roasted Natural Chicken with foraged mushroom crème and whipped garlic Yukon potatoes, Sriracha Glazed Brussels Sprouts served with house-made buttermilk ranch and celery salad, and our creamy Risottos. Join us for a beloved neighborhood brunch on weekends, where locals and visitors enjoy a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for dinner or a weekend brunch, Metropolis Café offers an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Boston’s South End.

A photo of Serafina - Boston Back Bay restaurant

7. Serafina - Boston Back Bay

4.5

Awesome(603)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Back Bay

Booked 36 times today

At Serafina on Newbury Street, we bring the warmth and flavors of authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of Boston's trendiest neighborhood. Nestled in the vibrant Back Bay, just steps away from the Prudential Center and Hynes Convention Center, our restaurant is the perfect spot to indulge in comfort food with a modern twist. Whether you're craving our signature pizzas, hearty pastas, fresh salads, or succulent steaks, we have something to satisfy every palate—including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.Our inviting atmosphere is designed to make you feel right at home, whether you're enjoying a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a special celebration. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Charles River for a beautiful view or a relaxing walk—an experience that perfectly complements the Serafina dining experience. We look forward to welcoming you to our table and making your visit a memorable one!

8. STK - Boston

4.5

Awesome(1651)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Steakhouse • Back Bay

Booked 44 times today

STK Steakhouse is “not your daddy’s steakhouse,” offering a high-energy dining experience that artfully combines the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse with a Vibe Dining atmosphere unlike any other. Delectable cuisine, upscale cocktails and an elevated Happy Hour, along with an in-house DJ and chic décor, all come together to offer a memorable fine dining experience that keeps guests enjoying their evening from drinks to dinner to late night. STK’s menu features reimagined classic American cuisine for lunch, brunch and dinner with unique local flair infused into each location’s menu. The brand’s beef program focuses on the highest quality, delicious and craveable steaks while emphasizing transparency and traceable sourcing practices.

9. Nubar

4.3

Awesome(1110)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Cambridge

Booked 2 times today

We are currently serving our breakfast buffet 7 days/wk, from 7am - 10:30am. The price is now $30/adults and $16/kids (because of the soaring price of eggs), and it includes coffee, tea, or juice. We are now serving lunch again daily, from 11am - 2pm. On Sundays, we will offer our regular lunch menu, plus a small menu of a la carte brunch items. We open for dinner at 5pm daily. The kitchen closes at 10pm daily. The bar will stay open 45 minutes after the kitchen closes on Sunday - Thursday, and on Friday and Saturday, last call is 11:45pm.Located under the glow of a Cambridge landmark and in the heart of Harvard Square, Nubar restaurant and lounge is now open at the Sheraton Commander Hotel. A chic neighborhood hangout emphasizing a comfortable bar and dining experience, Nubar restaurant serves food reflective of its surrounding neighborhood: smart, seasonal and approachable.

A photo of LUCIE drink + dine restaurant

10. LUCIE drink + dine

4.2

Awesome(492)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Back Bay

Booked 12 times today

LUCIE drink + dine. Local Bar. Global Kitchen. Neighborhood Charm.Bringing the Back Bay fresh bites. Open for Breakfast, Brunch, Cocktails and Dinner. Inviting atmosphere with a large central bar and flexible seating options. We want you to enjoy everything LUCIE drink + dine has to offer; the quality food you crave, the outstanding service you expect, and the friendliness and affordability you want from a neighborhood haunt. Walking distance to the Boston Symphony and Fenway Park.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

L
Lilly
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
This was one of the BEST meals I’ve had in my entire life. My table started with the mezze plate and the local burrata which were absolutely delicious, and for my main I got the eggplant parm with zucchini noodles. By far, the best eggplant parm i’ve ever had. The wait staff was very kind and attentive, I will absolutely be a returning customer.
More info
South End ButteryPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• South End
•
4.5
A
AnandVIP
Greater Boston •28 reviews
4.0
Dined 7 days ago
Good food, beautiful restaurant. Lunch selection is good
More info
Petit Robert Bistro Columbus AvenuePrice: Expensive• French• South End
•
4.7
R
rhondaVIP
Greater Boston •45 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 12, 2025
Each dish was beautifully presented and very interesting. We intend to return very soon.
More info
HarvestPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Cambridge
•
4.6
M
MichaelVIP
Baja California Sur •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 11, 2025
Staff and food is amazing a little twist on all the basics great food great people!!
More info
SOURCE RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Pizza Bar• Cambridge
•
4.6
S
Sarah
Minneapolis - St. Paul •4 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 10, 2025
The staff at the Berkeley was amazing from start to finish. The bartender, maitre'd, and server all took great care of us. The food was delicious and the ambiance lovely. We would recommend it to anyone looking for a quiet, delicious meal.
More info
The BerkeleyPrice: Moderate• French American• Back Bay
•
4.5

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