A foodie city like Boston has so many restaurants that it can be hard to stand out from the pack. However, these eateries have that covered. From unique uses of space to unexpected themes, these 9 restaurants make a lasting impression:
1. Tres Gatos (Jamaica Plain)
Is it a bar, restaurant, bookshop, or a record store? Tres Gatos, nestled inside a converted house, is actually all of the above. The eatery specializes in Spanish tapas and is especially popular for Sunday brunch. Next time you’re in the mood for something quirky yet intimate, head to 470 Centre Street in Jamaica Plain.
2. Liquid Art House (Back Bay)
Another restaurant that blends unexpected spaces together with slick and intriguing results is Liquid Art House. If you’ve ever wanted to at a gallery where the visual feast for your eyes is rivaled by the feast on your plate, then you’re going to want to dine here. This restaurant is located at 100 Arlington Street in Boston.
3. Shojo (Chinatown)
While you’re diving into succulent chicken atop waffles or kimchi fried rice, you can’t help but be fascinated by the décor in this Asian fusion restaurant. The vibrant street art murals really make this spot memorable. Visit 9 Tyler Street in Boston to see this place for yourself.
4. Clink (West End)
Clink is housed inside the old Charles Street Jail – now the Liberty Hotel. The hotel has fully embraced the jailhouse theme; yes, those are prison bars incorporated into the décor. This fine-dining restaurant uses plenty of local ingredients and the theme continues into the on-site bar,
Alibi . Stop by the latter for a pre or post-dinner drink. Clink is located at 215 Charles Street in Boston.
5. The Breakfast Club (Allston)
Fan of the 80s? Then this
Breakfast Club -inspired diner will thrill you to your retro-loving, neon-socks-covered toes. You might not find big hair and shoulder pads inside, but you will be treated to a soundtrack of 80s hits, memorabilia from the decade, and meals with entertaining monikers. How many chances do you get to order a basket case? This restaurant is located at 270 Western Avenue in Allston.
6. Café Madeleine (South End)
While a case can be made that any artisanal French bakery deserves a visit, this one offers croissants, macarons, and other dinky delights that’ll transport you straight to Paris. Open kitchens are fun, but if you have a sweet tooth, open bakeries are simply enthralling. Watch through the glass as pastry artists craft sweet treats and, please, try not to leave drool marks. Throw on some forgiving pants and head to 517 Columbus Avenue in Boston.
7. Clover Food Lab (multiple locations)
Clover isn’t like other restaurants. What started as a food truck now has 12 Boston area locations where you can sample locally-sourced, vegetarian food. Expect an industrial-chic vibe, experimental flair, and budget-friendly prices. The rosemary fries are to die for!
8. People’s Republik (Cambridge)
There aren’t many spots where you can eat below a mock missile – it is mock, right? This dive bar is known for burgers, booze, and Communist-inspired décor. It’s also a great spot for live music. People’s Republik is located at 878 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge.
9. Dolphin Bay (Allston/Brighton)
Dolphin Bay has the nautical theme covered. This Taiwanese eatery has turned furniture and structural elements into boats and lighthouses. The walls are adorned with murals and the whole effect is fun and cheerful. As for the food, you won’t regret ordering the popcorn chicken. Dolphin Bay is located at 72 Brighton Avenue in Boston.
Have you eaten at any of these places? What kooky Boston restaurant do you think is the coolest? Let us know in the comments.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.