Boston Restaurants Tips
Read these 6 Boston Restaurants Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Boston tips and hundreds of other topics.
South Street Diner
There is nothing like a good old fashioned American roadside diner to bring out the warm fuzzies in the most curmudgeonly among us. So if you're in the middle of the big city in the middle of the night and happen upon one, you may feel like you're dreaming. The South Street Diner on Kneeland Street is just such a place. Whether you're looking for some good comfort food at dinner time or a place to recharge your batteries after a night of clubbing, you'll feel right at home here. The South Street Diner is open all night every night - from 5 pm till 5 am. The diner features a regular dinner menu along with burgers, sandwiches, subs, wraps and some great breakfasts served all night long. Beer and wine are available and one of the specialties of the house is a "Desserts of the 50's" menu featuring sweets that might conjure up memories of Arnold's Drive-In on “Happy Days”. The staff is friendly and attentive, the food is good, and prices are very reasonable. The diner is located at 178 Kneeland Street, not far from South Station. Telephone: 617-350-0028.
Artu
If you happen to walk by Artu on Charles Street, your eyes and stomach will be drawn to the dishes strategically placed in the kitchen window. Fresh vegetables and pastas will entice you to walk down the stairs to see what the Italian restaurant is all about. With exposed brick walls and an open kitchen, Artu is cozy and waitstaff treat all patrons like long time customers. The spaghetti carbonara is surprisingly light yet filling. Also try the pollo farcito alla donato- chicken breast stuffed with proscuitto, spinach, and cheese and then breaded and pan-fried. Artu is a great place to go with friends or a date. Also a nice idea for some up-scale take-out for lunch or dinner. Entrees range from $12-$23. Located at 89 Charles Street in Boston's Beacon Hill and also on Prince Street in the North End.
Mamma Maria
In an area absolutely filled with good, authentic Italian food, it can be difficult to decide which restaurant to choose. You won't be disappointed with Mamma Maria's. Located in a restored North End townhouse, the both the downstairs and upstairs dining rooms offer an elegant and romantic candlelit atmosphere. Mamma Maria's offers a more modern spin on Italian classics. Try the Grilled tenderloin of pork, glazed with Gorgonzola dolce, caramelized green apples and toasted barley risotto. Entrees run from about $25-$34. Mamma Maria's is located at 3 North Square in Boston's North End.
Antonio's Cucina
Antonio's Cucina is a hidden gem in the masses of upscale Beacon Hill restaurants. Located on Cambridge Street, Antonio's is tiny but cozy. Waitstaff are friendly and will be happy to fill you in on what some of the vague menu descriptions are. The chicken ziti saldate is wonderful, covered in a deliciously zesty red sauce and the caesar salad is hands down one of the best around. Prices are extremely reasonable including plenty of lunch items for only $4.95. Come in to celebrate a birthday and waitstaff will have the whole restaurant singing and cheering. Dinner entrees are priced from about $8-$15. Antonio's Cucina is located at 286 Cambridge Street in Boston's Beacon Hill.
Dom's Restaurant
Of the 120 restaurants in Boston's North End, Dom's is one of only six that has lasted for over 30 years. One visit to the restaurant and you will leave knowing why. You'll feel right at home with Dom himself (or co-owner Marcello) coming out of the kitchen to ask you what you feel like for dinner. Despite the extensive 18-page menu, Dom and his kitchen staff will cook pretty much anything you desire. Pastas and sauces are all homemade; the asparagus tip ravioli is an excellent choice for an appetizer. Don't forget to order a basket of the garlic bread as well. For an entree, choose your favorite fishes or meats and pair it with one of the restaurant's many delectable sauces. Entrees run from about $15-$30. Dom's is located at 10 Bartlett Place in Boston's North End.
Hamersley's Bistro
Because Chef Gordon Hamersley prepares his French and New American bistro fare with the freshest seasonal ingredients available, both the menu and the wine list change with the seasons. But no matter when you visit, you will no doubt be able to find something you love on the menu. Hamersley's Cassoulet of Pork, Duck Confit and Garlic Sausage is absolutely delicious. While the restaurant is not overly stuffy and actually claims to have no dress code, the noise absorbing plush decor makes it the perfect place for a romantic meal. Entrees cost an average of $30. Hamersley's Bistro is located at 553 Tremont Street in Boston's South End.
