Editor’s choice: 12 favorite restaurants in Boston

by Valerie Li Stack
Updated May 13, 2024
Most people think of Boston’s restaurant scene as one that’s filled with lobster rolls, rich and creamy clam chowder, and not much else, but I beg to differ. My food journalism career has confirmed that the city also serves meticulously crafted omakase, pitch-perfect Italian classics, and Afghani staples—if you’re hungry enough to search.
I’ve spent six years researching and dining out as a contributor for media outlets including Eater, Food52, Boston magazine, and more. I pay close attention to the quality of the ingredients, the chef, the service, and the overall ambiance. These 12 restaurants showcase Boston’s best talent and are faithfuls I find myself returning to over and over again.
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AlanVIP
Dined on Jun 9, 2025
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KevinVIP
Dined on Jun 12, 2025
4.7 (739)
$31 to $50
Global, International
Dorchester
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Carolyne
Dined 6 days ago
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Carolyne
Dined 6 days ago
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Kylen
Dined 2 days ago
4.6 (2242)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Cambridge
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D
Dawn
Dined on Jun 9, 2025
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D
Dawn
Dined on Jun 9, 2025
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Tricia
Dined 3 days ago
Discover more
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Samuel
Dined 2 days ago
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Amanda
Dined on Apr 14, 2025
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D
Dr. SarthakVIP
Dined 3 days ago
4.8 (1050)
$30 and under
Latin American
Cambridge
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ZachVIP
Dined on Jun 11, 2025
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ZachVIP
Dined on Jun 11, 2025
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C
cindyh
Dined on Jan 5, 2020
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