Boston is a city that has a rich history, vibrant culture, and a diverse culinary scene. With so many restaurants to choose from, whether from upscale seafood and steakhouse-style service to trendy Mediterranean-inspired menus, the city offers a diverse range of dining experiences, and it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the best Boston restaurants of 2023, optimized for local searches. From new openings to old favorites, we’ve got you covered.

The Most Anticipated Boston Restaurant Openings in 2023!

Before we dive into the best restaurants in Boston, let’s take a look at some of the most anticipated restaurant openings of 2023. These restaurants are sure to be popular among locals and visitors alike and are worth keeping an eye on. Here are a few restaurants that we’re particularly excited about in Boston:

Comfort Kitchen in Dorchester
Eastern Standard in Fenway
North End Umbria
Laughing Monk Cafe in Mission Hill
Justin’s Pizza in Brighton

The Best Boston Restaurants of 2023

Now, without further ado, here are the best Boston restaurants of 2023, optimized for local searches.

1. Woods Hill Pier 4

Woods Hill Pier 4 is a restaurant in Boston that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant has a modern design and a great view of the harbor and airport in the distance. The menu features locally sourced ingredients from The Farm at Woods Hill, which is owned by the restaurant’s owner, Kristin Canty. The food is expensive but worth it for the quality and taste.

Woods Hill Pier 4 has received a Michelin star for its pasture-to-plate eatery, with Chef Charlie Foster creating masterpieces like dry-aged duck breast, grass-fed hanger steak, and line-caught striped bass. The restaurant is also listed as one of the 50 best outdoor dining places in Boston.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience with a great view and locally sourced ingredients, Woods Hill Pier 4 is definitely worth a visit.

2. Bistro du Midi

Bistro du Midi is a Boston restaurant that has been impressing diners since its opening. With a focus on seafood, the restaurant has been praised for its delicious fish dishes. It also offers a romantic and cozy atmosphere. Here are some reasons why you should consider dining at Bistro du Midi:

Beautiful location overlooking the Boston Public Garden
Delicious French bistro cuisine with coastal influences
Romantic ambiance, perfect for a date night or special occasion
The great wine list and knowledgeable waitstaff
Ideal for hosting events with unrivaled views of Boston’s Public Garden

Additionally, Bistro du Midi has one of the most interesting wine lists in the city, making it a great spot for wine lovers. The restaurant’s warm chocolate fondant is also a must-try dessert. With picturesque views of the Boston Public Garden from the second-floor dining room, Bistro du Midi is a romantic setting to impress that special someone.

If you’re looking for a romantic and delicious dining experience in Boston, make sure to visit Bistro du Midi

3. Grace By Nia

Grace by Nia is a new restaurant and jazz venue located in Boston’s Seaport district. The restaurant is owned by Nia Grace, a Roxbury native and owner of Darryl’s Corner Bar & Kitchen, and Big Night Entertainment. Here are some things to know about Grace by Nia:

The restaurant features a laid-back, whimsical soul-infused menu that includes soul food favorites like fried chicken and mac and cheese.
The decor is vibrant and creates a nostalgic ambiance that transports guests to a different era.
Grace by Nia also has a captivating speakeasy lounge that serves up craft cocktails and other libations.
The intimate stage is perfect for live jazz music and other entertainment, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a date.
The restaurant and jazz venue is a black-owned business, bringing much-needed diversity to the Seaport district.
Grace by Nia opened on May 11, 2023, after more than a year of planning and anticipation.

Overall, Grace by Nia promises to be a unique and exciting addition to Boston’s dining and entertainment scene, offering a combination of delicious food, craft cocktails, and live jazz music in a vibrant and nostalgic atmosphere.

No matter how you choose to get involved, Grace by Nia promises to be a must-visit destination for foodies, music lovers, and anyone looking for a unique and exciting night out in Boston.

4. Silver Dove Afternoon Tea

If you’re looking for a cozy and classy afternoon tea experience in Downtown Boston, Silver Dove Afternoon Tea is the perfect spot for you. This full-service tearoom specializes in English-style afternoon tea service and has received high praise from both locals and visitors alike. In fact, it was even named one of Boston’s best restaurants to visit in 2023 by Tasting Table.

The tearoom is an intimate, independently owned operation, run by two industry veterans with lots of cocktail experience. The decor is beautiful and the pastries and sandwiches are amazing. Afternoon tea is served from 11:00 am-6:00 pm, Wednesday to Sunday, and the fixed price food menu is $48 per person.

Don’t miss out on their delicious espresso martini, made with vanilla vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur, and optional hazelnut cream. Whether you’re a tea lover or a foodie, Silver Dove Afternoon Tea is a must-visit spot in Boston.

5. Jiang Nan Boston

Jiang Nan Boston is a new Chinese fusion restaurant that opened in Boston in early 2023. Here’s what you need to know about this exciting new spot:

Location: Jiang Nan Boston is located at 177 Tremont St, Boston, Massachusetts. It’s in the former Teatro space, which is a prime location in the city.
Cuisine: The restaurant offers authentic Chinese cuisine with a fusion twist. Diners can expect delicious flavors and a variety of dishes to choose from. Some of the standout dishes include the xiao long bao, the crispy scallion pancake, and the braised pork belly.
Atmosphere: Jiang Nan Boston has a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic dinner. The service is also impeccable, making for a great dining experience.
Reviews: The restaurant has received positive reviews on Yelp, with many diners praising the food and service. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area.

If you’re a foodie in Boston, you won’t want to miss out on Jiang Nan Boston.

6. Matsunori Handroll Bar

Matsunori Handroll Bar is a sushi restaurant in Boston that specializes in hand rolls, also known as Tamaki. The restaurant is entirely devoted to this style of sushi, which is hand-prepped and showcases New England seafood front and center.

Matsunori Handroll Bar aims to serve high-quality local seafood at affordable prices, bringing new flavors to a centuries-old style of sushi. The restaurant is gaining popularity for its unique culinary adventure, and it is known for its silky perfection of steamed egg custard.

You can check out their full menu on Yelp and see some of their delicious sushi on their Instagram page. Matsunori Handroll Bar is located at 900 Beacon St. Unit A in Boston and is open for lunch and dinner. The restaurant is known for its friendly staff and cozy atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends or a date.

If you’re looking for a unique sushi experience in Boston, head over to Matsunori Handroll Bar!

7. Marseille Boston

Marseille Restaurant is a new dining destination in Boston’s SoWa neighborhood that draws inspiration from the culture of the South of France. The restaurant features a menu that reflects the flavors of Southern France and the Western Mediterranean.

The restaurant has a world-class wine list and exceptional French Provencal cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Some of the standout dishes include the bouillabaisse, the grilled octopus, and the roasted branzino.

Marseille offers exceptional French Provencal cuisine and a world-class wine list. The ambiance is sexy and elegant, making it the perfect gathering place for neighbors, theater-goers, performers, tourists, and anyone who loves the joie de vivre of French culture. Marseille is the neighborhood’s finest, most sexy, and most elegant brasserie.

Marseille is a premier dining destination that is beloved by neighbors, theatre-goers, performers, tourists, and lovers of joie de vivre of all ages and backgrounds. Book your table now and experience the heartbeat of Boston’s dining scene!

8. Bar Vlaha

Bar Vlaha is a Greek restaurant located in the North End neighborhood of Boston. Bar Vlaha is not your typical Greek restaurant, as it strays from the tried-and-true island cuisine and instead focuses on rustic, homey, stick-to-your-ribs country cooking sourced from the rural mountains, lakes, and villages of Central and Northern Greece.

The restaurant features a menu that celebrates the flavors of Greece, with a focus on fresh seafood. Some of the standout dishes include the grilled octopus, the lamb chops, and the spanakopita.

The restaurant pays homage to the Vlach people, a community of nomadic shepherds, and cooks using charcoal to create dishes that are hearty, flavorful, and unforgettable. From juicy lamb and pork chops to boozy Greek coffee, Bar Vlaha captures the true soul of Greek cooking with rustic and nomadic traditions.

The cozy restaurant is designed to feel like visiting the Greek countryside, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the roots of Greek culture. Make your reservations online today and get ready for a culinary adventure!

9. Ostra Boston

If you’re looking for a unique and romantic dining experience in Boston, Ostra Boston is a must-visit. This contemporary Mediterranean seafood restaurant is located in Boston’s Back Bay and offers both innovative and classic preparations of the finest seafood available globally. Here are some reasons why Ostra Boston is worth a visit:

The restaurant has a focus on Mediterranean fare, and every detail and every ingredient is accounted for.
Ostra Boston is one of the best seafood restaurants in Boston.
The dining room at Ostra Boston is elegant and sophisticated, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Ostra Boston is also one of the best romantic restaurants in Boston.
The restaurant has a fine bar, lounge area, and live piano playing throughout your dinner, creating an inviting and intimate setting.
Ostra Boston has received rave reviews on TripAdvisor and Yelp, with many diners praising the quality of the food and the exceptional service.

Overall, Ostra Boston is a hidden gem that offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a romantic spot to impress your date, Ostra Boston is definitely worth a visit.

10. Menton Boston

Led by renowned Chef Barbara Lynch, Menton offers luxurious French and Italian cuisine in an elegant setting. The restaurant’s attention to detail and sophisticated flavors make it a top choice for those seeking an upscale dining experience.

Menton offers beautifully executed cuisine, an unparalleled wine program, warm hospitality, and a glamorous setting. The restaurant features a six-seat bar, with additional seating for ten at tables along a banquette, and an approachable menu of comforting classics.

Menton has received numerous accolades, including a 4-star review from The Boston Globe, recognition as one of Bon Appétit and Esquire magazines’ best new restaurants in 2010, and a James Beard Foundation Award nomination in 2011 for Best New Restaurant.

Menton is Boston’s only Relais & Châteaux and Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star property. Chef Barbara Lynch is currently the only female in the United States to hold this distinction. Menton is a popular spot for special occasions or a romantic night out.

11. Mooncusser Boston

Mooncusser Boston is a seafood restaurant located in Boston, MA that offers gorgeously prepared local seafood in an elegant yet relaxed setting. Here are some key points to know:

The menu is heavily seafood-centric, with dishes that are delicately presented and favor bold and unique flavors.
You can enjoy Mooncusser’s delicious seafood at home with their Mooncusser at Home service.
The restaurant offers a seasonal multi-course menu from Chef Carl Dooley, showcasing local seafood and flavors that he and the kitchen team are excited about.
Since opening in 2017, the restaurant has been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Mooncusser Boston is open Friday and Saturday from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Overall, Mooncusser Boston is a must-visit for seafood lovers who want to enjoy delicious seafood in a beautiful setting.

12. Chickadee

If you’re looking for a restaurant that combines the best of New England cuisine with Mediterranean inspiration, Chickadee is the perfect spot for you. Located in Boston’s Seaport district, this award-winning restaurant is both chic and cozy, with warm lighting and lots of blonde wood.

This trendy restaurant offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu that combines bold flavors with creative presentations. Chickadee’s diverse dishes and stylish atmosphere make it a popular choice for those looking for a unique and memorable dining experience

The menu is full of beautiful and delicious dishes that are sure to impress, and the snack cart is a must-try. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a private event for a larger group, Chickadee has got you covered. With consistently solid and often excellent food, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. So you can spread your wings and give Chickadee a try?

13. No. 9 Park

No. 9 Park is a restaurant located in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston. It’s housed in an elegant townhouse and provides an intimate setting to enjoy Chef Barbara Lynch’s refined cuisine. The restaurant has a romantic ambiance that makes it perfect for a date night or a special occasion. Here are some key features of No. 9 Park:

Menu: The menu features an artful blend of regionally-inspired Italian dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include Prune-stuffed gnocchi, Roasted Duck Breast, and chocolate souffle for dessert. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that complements the food perfectly.
Space: No. 9 Park has an intimate dining room that lends itself to warm hospitality from a charming team. The European-scale setting is perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or family.
Reviews: No. 9 Park has received rave reviews on TripAdvisor and has been featured in magazines like New York Magazine. Customers have praised the restaurant for its exceptional food, impeccable service, and romantic ambiance.
Reservations: If you’re planning to visit, make sure to make a reservation in advance by calling 617.742.9991 or via OpenTable. The restaurant is quite popular, so it’s best to book early to avoid disappointment.

Overall, No. 9 Park is a must-visit restaurant in Boston. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a romantic night out, this restaurant is sure to impress.

14. Myers + Chang

Myers + Chang is an Asian-inspired restaurant located in the South End. With a menu that features dishes from all over Asia, Myers + Chang offers a unique and flavorful dining experience. Some of the favorites include the pork belly buns, the dan dan noodles, and the coconut cream pie for dessert.

Myers + Chang is a must-visit restaurant in Boston for anyone looking for a unique and delicious dining experience. Here are some reasons why:

The restaurant offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
The menu features creative takes on Taiwanese, Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese soul and street food, so you can expect a wide range of flavors and dishes to choose from.
The restaurant is run by a James Beard-award-winning chef duo, Joanne Chang and Karen Akunowicz, so you know you’re in for a treat.
Some of the most popular dishes include Braised Pork Belly Buns and Tea-smoked Pork Spare Ribs, which are highly recommended by customers.
The servers are extremely professional and efficient, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try the delicious Asian cuisine at Myers + Chang and immerse yourself in the flavors of Asia.

15. Mei Mei Dumpling Factory and Cafe

Mei Mei Dumpling Factory and Cafe is an Asian-inspired restaurant located in the Fenway neighbourhood. It is a unique and exciting dining experience that is sure to delight anyone who loves dumplings. This Boston-based restaurant started as a food truck in 2012 and has now transformed into a Dumpling Factory, Cafe, and Classroom. The new location in South Boston is like a brewery but for dumplings, featuring a machine that helps make the dumplings.

The restaurant offers multiple experiences, from dining to making and eating dumplings. Mei Mei’s dumplings are rooted in tradition but filled with next-level ingredients that blend nostalgic and unexpected flavours. The story of Mei Mei is defined by its co-founder, James Beard Leadership Award-winning chef Irene Li, and her siblings.

At Mei Mei, you can enjoy a variety of dumplings that are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. The dumplings are filled with unique flavours that will tantalize your taste buds. You can also take a factory tour and learn how the dumplings are made, or even participate in a dumpling-making class. The restaurant is committed to community and transparency, and you can see this in the way they operate their business.

If you’re a dumpling lover, you won’t want to miss out on the Mei Mei experience. You can find their dumplings at farmer’s market locations throughout MA and at their new dumpling factory & cafe in South Boston. Come and experience the magic of Mei Mei Dumpling Factory and Cafe!

16. Hecate

This restaurant offers a unique fusion of flavors, combining Asian and European culinary traditions. Hecate’s innovative dishes and modern atmosphere provide an exciting dining experience for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

This underground cocktail bar is named after the Greek goddess of magic and spells, and it’s located in the Back Bay area. The entrance is in an alleyway off Gloucester Street, and the only clue is Hecate’s logo, which features two keys, the sun, and a crescent. Once you enter the bar, you’ll be transported to another realm. The bar is dark, intimate, and filled with flourishes inspired by pan-mysticism, including elaborate potions poured by the necromancers at its bar.

The bartenders, or “spirit guides,” as they’re called, serve up complex yet balanced cocktails mixed with elderflower, Tropi-Cola, and other less-common ingredients. The vibe is mysterious and sexy, and the sultry space is located off the alley adjacent to Krasi.

Hecate is open from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and it’s first-come, first-served, with no standing room allowed. So, if you’re ready for a unique and unforgettable experience, head to Hecate and enter the realm of spirits.

17. Juliet’s Boston

Juliet is a French-inspired restaurant located in Somerville. With a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes, Juliet offers a unique and delicious dining experience. Some of our favorites include roasted chicken, beet salad, and chocolate mousse for dessert.

Juliet’s Restaurant Boston is a unique dining experience that offers:

Classic Mediterranean cuisine with local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients.
Culinary storytelling through revolving menus that change frequently.
Casual dining by day and fine dining by night.
A flagship restaurant of Juliet + Company located in Somerville, just outside of Boston.
Open for dinner from 5-10 pm every day except Tuesdays, brunch from 10 am – 3 pm on weekends, and lunch from 12-3 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
An opportunity to book events through their website.

Don’t miss out on this unique dining experience in Somerville, just outside of Boston. Book your table today!

Boston’s culinary landscape in 2023 showcases a vibrant and diverse dining scene. From upscale establishments serving French and Italian delicacies to trendy eateries offering Mediterranean-inspired menus, the city has something to offer for every palate. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, steak, or global comfort foods, the top Boston restaurants of 2023 are sure to provide memorable dining experiences. So, venture out and explore these exceptional eateries to savor the best of what Boston’s culinary world has to offer.

The Best Boston Restaurants of 2023: A Guide to the City’s Top Eateries in Boston