Boston has some great cuisine for you to try on your vacation. The city is known for many iconic foods. So if you’re looking for fresh seafood or a yummy dessert, Boston is the place for you.
CLAM CHOWDER
No trip to Boston is complete without a big hearty bowl of clam chowder (or “chowdah” as the locals say). Almost every diner or restaurant serves up this creamy seafood dish. Once you have a bowl of authentic Boston chowder, you’ll never look at the canned stuff the same way again. The mix of clams, bacon, potatoes, onions, and cream is the perfect New England treat. Union Oyster House has been serving up bowls since 1826. If you’re lucky, you may even get seated in John F. Kennedy’s personal booth.
BOSTON CREME PIE
Are you in the mood for something sweet? Then head over to the Omni Parker House, the birthplace of this dessert. In 1856, a chef created the sponge cake filled with cream and topped with chocolate. It has been a hit with diners since that day. The Boston Creme Pie is the official dessert of Massachusetts.
LOBSTER ROLLS
Lobster rolls are a popular Boston food. You can find the sandwich at ballparks to five-star restaurants. The chunks of lobster are served on a hot dog bun, either warm (with just melted butter) or cold (mixed with mayonnaise and chopped celery). Whatever you choose, this is classic New England fare. The best spot to taste some great lobster roll is James Hook & Co on the waterfront. The seafood shack serves their rolls cold and you’ll be getting some of the freshest lobster straight from the ocean.
BAKED BEANS
Baked beans have been a staple in New England for centuries. In fact, this dish is the reason the city is nicknamed Beantown. This is another item you can find at a bevy of pubs and restaurants around town. You might be surprised at the French restaurant Marliave, which is an extremely popular spot to get a crock in town.
CANNOLIS
You might not think that Boston is famous for its cannolis, but the North End neighborhood has been serving up these great Italian pastries for years. There are several bakeries along Hanover Street that are famous for this sweet treat, with the most popular being Mike’s Pastry. This shop has been making cannolis since 1946 and you’ll have to start lining up with regulars and tourists to get through the door to pick up your order.
RAW OYSTERS
Bostonians love their oysters. You can find raws bars on just about every corner. Happy Hour specials usually will include oysters on the menu. But if you’re looking for a slightly upscale experience, hit up Island Creek Oyster Bar. These Maine-grown oysters have graced the plates of Michelin star restaurants to the White House.
FENWAY FRANK
Is there a better combination than hot dogs and a Red Sox game? Boston has its own famous baseball food – the Fenway Frank. What makes these dogs different is that they are boiled and grilled. In 2009, the recipe had an upgrade but still remains a popular treat at the game.
If you want to eat like a local, don’t forget to check out these spots when in Boston.
