Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Faces Brewpub to Open in Malden

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a brand new brewpub with a very familiar name is on its way to Malden.

According to a source within the city, Faces is planning to open on Pleasant Street in the downtown area of the city, with this news being confirmed by Boston Magazine--and an article from Eater Boston also confirms something else that our source tells us, that the Martignetti family, which had once been the owners of Faces nightclub and Lanes and Games bowling on Route 2 in Cambridge, is behind the new brewpub as well. Our source says that the new spot will be a high-end brewpub that will brew Malden's first true original beer. (Idle Hands started out in Everett while Mystic Brewery--which is expanding to Malden later this year--is currently located in Chelsea.)

It is not known exactly when Faces brewpub might open (the space is currently under construction), so keep checking back for updates as they come in.

The address for the upcoming Faces brewpub is 50 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA, 02148. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/facesbrewingco/

[August 2, 2019 update: Eater Boston states that Faces plans to open sometime this fall in Malden.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]

Mystic Brewery Plans to Open New Facility in Malden; Beer Hall, Cheese Counter, Outdoor Seating Planned for the Space

by Marc Hurwitz

A local brewery is getting ready to expand to a new space, and it looks like it will include a taproom and an outdoor area.

According to an article in Boston Magazine, Mystic Brewery in Chelsea is opening a new, larger facility in Malden, with the 17,000-square-foot Charles Street space expected to include a brewhouse, beer hall, cheese counter, outdoor seating during the warmer months, and room for food trucks outside. It is not yet known exactly what will happen with the original space on Williams Street in Chelsea once the move takes place, though it is expected to remain in the hands of the brewery and could become home to a new project called Von Lüne Lagers.

If all goes as planned, Mystic Brewery's new facility could be up and running by later this year.

The current address for Mystic Brewery is 174 Williams Street in Chelsea, while the address of the new facility is 11 Charles Street in Malden. The website for the business can be found at https://www.mystic-brewery.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]

Tuesday, February 27, 2018

Ryles Jazz Club in Cambridge's Inman Square Is Closing

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like another music club is calling it a day, and this one has been around for a very long time.

According to an article in The Boston Globe, Ryles Jazz Club in Cambridge's Inman Square is closing, with owner Gary Mitchell (who runs the place with his sister Aimee Baum) saying that the Hampshire Street spot is being sold so that his family can focus on the S&S Restaurant, a deli on the same block that his great-grandmother opened nearly 100 years ago. No specific closing date has been given as of yet, but the Globe mentions a Facebook post from the Soul City Band that indicates it could be shutting down at the end of June.

Ryles Jazz Club, which first opened in the late 1970s, is an institution of sorts that has seen the likes of Grover Washington Jr., Pat Metheny, Maynard Ferguson and others play over the years; while the original owner was Jack Reilly, Mitchell and his family have run the place for the past 25 years.

The address for Ryles Jazz Club is 212 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website can be found at http://www.rylesjazz.com/

[June 28 update: The Boston Globe mentions that Ryles closes this weekend, with its last official night open to the public being tomorrow (Friday, June 29) and its last day in operation being Saturday when it will host an invitation-only party.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Monday, February 26, 2018

Pavement Coffeehouse Opening New Location in Allston-Brighton

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a local group of coffeehouses is opening a new location, with this one being very close to the Charles River.

According to a source, Pavement Coffeehouse is planning to open on Western Avenue near where Lower Allston and Brighton meet, with the address given indicating that it would be a short distance east of Soldiers Field Road near where Article 24 resides. A hearing notice for the proposed spot shows that it would have a seasonal patio with seating for 12, though no specifics on the amount of indoor seating have been given as of yet. The hearing on the new Pavement Coffeehouse is slated to take place on March 7, so there should be more information coming out later next week.

Currently, locations of Pavement Coffeehouse can be found in Boston's Back Bay, the Fenway (2), the Symphony Hall area, by BU, and in Allston Village. (Another location is being planned for Harvard University's Smith Campus Center in Cambridge as well.)

The address for this new coffee spot in Allston-Brighton is: Pavement Coffeehouse, 415 Western Avenue, Brighton, MA, 02135. The website for all locations is at https://pavementcoffeehouse.com/

[June 1 update: An update from Boston Magazine states that the new Pavement Coffeehouse in Allston-Brighton is now open.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]





Dumpling Daughter, Vester Opening in Cambridge's Kendall Square

by Marc Hurwitz

A suburban Chinese restaurant that has a connection to a landmark spot which had once been on the Boston waterfront is expanding to Cambridge.

According to a job post within the bostonchefs.com site, Dumpling Daughter in Weston is planning to open a new location in Kendall Square this spring and they are now looking for a general manager for the upcoming spot. An exact address has not been given as of yet, so keep checking back for updates as they come in.

[Ed note: This article was updated to reflect the fact that two dining spots are moving into the space.]

The original Dumpling Daughter first opened on Center Street in Weston in late 2014, offering such items as dumplings, ramen, rice bowls, sandwiches, wings, and more; Nadia Liu Spellman, who runs the place, is the daughter of Sally Ling, who is known for her namesake restaurant that first opened on the waterfront in the mid-1980s and who was also Spellman's "number one consultant" in the opening of Dumpling Daughter. (Sally Ling's, which was a groundbreaking high-end Chinese dining spot, moved to Cambridge a few years after opening and finally moved again to New Jersey before closing for good.)

The website for Dumpling Daughter can be found at https://www.dumplingdaughter.com

[March 2 update: The Tables section of The Boston Globe states that the new location of Dumpling Daughter will be on Ames Street between Broadway and Main Street in Kendall Square, and it will offer some dishes not found at the Weston location, including street food items such as tea-simmered eggs and curried fish balls.]

[April 23 update: A Cambridge license commission page indicates that Dumpling Daughter plans to open at 73 Ames Street, which is where Ames Street Deli and Study had been--and a separate listing indicates that a second restaurant affiliated with Dumpling Daughter is moving into the space as well, with Nicole Liu of Dumpling Daughter being listed as manager of another spot there called Vester.]

[May 1 update: Eater Boston states that Vester will be a European-style cafe influenced by eateries found in Copenhagen, with cafe food served all day long, including breakfast items, salads, and sandwiches.]

[August 31 update: A new post from Eater Boston says that Dumpling Daughter and Vester are now open in Cambridge.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]





Friday, February 23, 2018

Bar Mezzana Team Opening Shore Leave (a New Tiki Bar) in Boston's Ink Block Area

by Marc Hurwitz

The group behind an Italian restaurant within a new development in Boston's South End will be opening a brand new spot across the street.

Boston Magazine is reporting that Colin Lynch, Heather Lynch, Jefferson Macklin, and Ryan Lotz of Bar Mezzana on Harrison Avenue in the Ink Block are planning to open Shore Leave, which will be a tiki bar and restaurant that is currently in design mode and could be opening later this year if all goes as planned. Very little information has been given on the upcoming spot, so stay tuned as more details start to come in.

Bar Mezzana first opened in the Ink Block in June of 2016, with the dining and drinking spot featuring coastal Italian fare.

The address for Shore Leave will be 345 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118. Its website will be at https://www.shoreleaveboston.com/

[April 27 update: A licensing board hearing page indicates that Shore Leave is hoping to get its liquor license from The Gate (which is now closed) in Jamaica Plain, and the notice says that the place plans to have two bars within its space. The hearing is scheduled to take place on May 2.]

[November 16 update: Boston Magazine states that Shore Leave plans to open by early next week.]

[November 18 update: A Facebook post from the place indicates that Shore Leave has softly opened, with its official opening taking place tomorrow (Monday, November 19) at 5:00 PM.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Fusion Taste in Arlington Center Is Closed; Exact Status Unknown

by Marc Hurwitz

A suburban restaurant known for its Chinese and Japanese fare has shut down for at least the time being, and it is not yet known why the place has closed.

According to several sources on The Arlington List Facebook group page, Fusion Taste in Arlington Center is locked up and dark, with a check on the restaurant last night confirming this, and signs out front say that it is temporarily closed because of an equipment problem. A Facebook post from Michel Chen of the Broadway eatery says that it is "closed for revaluation," with a comment further down in the thread indicating that it could be shuttered for approximately a month.

Fusion Taste first opened in Arlington Center in 2009, taking over the space where Mifune had once been, along with Viet's Cafe and several other dining spots.

The address for Fusion Taste is 303 Broadway, Arlington, MA, 02474. The phone number is (781) 641-2388. And the Web site is at: http://www.fusiontasterestaurant.com/

[February 25 update: A comment on Facebook from Michel Chen mentions that Fusion Taste will "reopen soon," though no specifics have been given.]

[May 25 update: According to a source, Fusion Taste has reopened.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]





Update: Glass House in Cambridge's Kendall Square to Debut Breakfast Bar, Offering Items from Now-Closed K2 Cafe

by Marc Hurwitz

[Ed note: This article was updated on February 24 to reflect a correction made about which space the breakfast bar is going into.]

A restaurant in Cambridge is opening a breakfast bar, and it will offer items from a now-closed cafe and coffee bar that was under the same ownership.

An email sent to us indicates that Glass House on Kendall Street in the city's Kendall Square area is opening a breakfast bar within its space, and that it will serve food and drink that the nearby K2 Cafe had been offering until it closed down this week. The new breakfast bar will serve items such as breakfast burritos bowls, avocado toast, spudboats (loaded baked potatoes), egg sandwiches, and bagels, along with a variety of coffee options.

It looks like Glass House's breakfast bar opens its doors on Monday, according to the email.

K2 Cafe opened in Kendall Square in July of 2016 while Glass House opened in October of that year; the cafe offered salads, sandwiches, and spudboats, coffee, tea, and smoothies, while the restaurant features a mix of New American and classic American fare along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]





Bagels by Us in Arlington Is Closing

by Marc Hurwitz

A longtime suburban dining spot known in part for its bagels is shutting down.

According to several sources, including a couple of posters on The Arlington List Facebook group page, Bagels by Us on Mass. Ave in Arlington is closing, with a phone call to the business confirming that it will indeed be shutting its doors on March 16. No specific reason has been given for its closure, and it is not known what might go into the space, so keep checking back for updates.

Bagels by Us, which has been in business for more than 20 years and is also known as The Diner at Bagels By Us, offers a variety of bagels along with breakfast and lunch sandwiches, French toast, waffles, pancakes, and more.

The address for Bagels by Us is 789 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02476.

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]





Windy City Pizza in Dorchester Opening New Location in Quincy

by Marc Hurwitz

A pizzeria in Dorchester is expanding to a second location nearby, and it will offer very late-night dining along with delivery.

According to a source, Windy City Pizza on Gallivan Boulevard is planning to open a new shop on Newport Street in Quincy, with a Patriot Ledger article confirming this, saying that the upcoming eatery will be able to stay open until 3:00 AM while also offering delivery. The new location of Windy City could be opening around the end of the year if all goes as planned.

The original location of Windy City Pizza offers such items as salads, subs, wings, tenders, steak tips and calzones, in addition to pizza.

The address for this new pizzeria in Quincy is: Windy City Pizza, 195 Newport Avenue, Quincy, MA, 02170. The website for the Dorchester shop can be found at https://www.windypizza.com/

[May 7 update: According to a source, Windy City Pizza is now open in Quincy, with a check on the website seeming to confirm this, showing the address and hours for the spot. (The site says that although it is open until 3:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, it is open for delivery only after midnight.)]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Pizzas in the Boston Area and Beyond]





American Fresh Beer Garden in Somerville's Assembly Row Is Reopening

by Marc Hurwitz

A Somerville beer garden that closed down a few months ago is going to be returning.

A message sent from Somerville Brewing Company states that American Fresh Beer Garden at Assembly Row in Somerville is planning to reopen, though no specifics have been given as of yet (more information may be coming later today). The beer garden, which debuted in the fall of 2014, will end up being the third spot for the brewery once it opens, with American Fresh Brewhouse Brewery and Taproom being located at the brewery on Ward Street and American Fresh Brewhouse recently opening at Assembly Row.

Somerville Brewing Company is known in part for its line of Slumbrew beers.

The website for Somerville Brewing Company--and its taproom and brewhouse--can be found at http://www.slumbrew.com/

Thanks to a source for initially bringing this to our attention.

[May 2 update: A Facebook post from Caitlin Jewell of American Fresh Beer Garden indicates that the place opens today at 5:00 PM.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]





Thursday, February 22, 2018

Legal Fish Bowl Is Opening at Faneuil Hall

by Marc Hurwitz

A new concept from one of the Boston area's biggest names for seafood is expanding into the heart of the city.

According to a press release, Legal Fish Bowl in Cambridge's Kendall Square is opening a second location, with this one being at the Quincy Market Building in Boston's Faneuil Hall. The 850-square-foot eatery will feature six signature bowls along with customizable bowls, and there will also be chicken and vegetarian options in addition to seafood choices. (Clam chowder will be offered as well, along with green tea, lemonade, and a "Haymaker’s Punch.")

The Kendall Square location of Legal Fish Bowl first opened in the spring of 2017; the concept comes from the Legal Sea Foods chain, which is headquartered in Boston's Seaport District.

The web page for the Cambridge location of Legal Fish Bowl can be found at https://www.legalseafoods.com/restaurants/cambridge-legal-fish-bowl-413

[June 4 update: According to a tweet, the new location of Legal Fish Bowl at Faneuil Hall has opened, with the Legal Sea Foods website confirming that today is indeed its first day in operation.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Seafood Dishes from Boston-Area and New England Restaurants]





Sala By Fratelli's Is Opening in Quincy

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a trio of pastry shops will soon be joined by a brand new dessert bar.

According to an article in The Quincy Sun, Sala By Fratelli's is planning to open in Quincy, moving into a space on the Southern Artery that had been home to a tanning salon. The post indicates that John Milone, who operates Fratelli's Pastry Shop on nearby Broad Street, is behind the place, which will have seating for 60 and will offer a variety of desserts and drinks, including wine, cordials, coffee, and espresso.

Fratelli's Pastry Shop can also be found in Weymouth, and there is a new location in Taunton as well.

The address for this upcoming dessert bar in Quincy is: Sala By Fratelli's, 470 Southern Artery, Quincy, MA, 02169. The website for the three Fratelli's Pastry Shop locations is at http://www.fratellispastry.com/home/index.asp

[June 27 update: A press release sent today indicates that Sala By Fratelli's opens Friday at 5:00 PM and that in addition to Italian pastries, wine, cordials, coffee, and espresso, the dessert bar will also offer beer and cocktails. (The place will be open evenings only from Thursday through Sunday.)]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]





Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Morse Fish Company in Boston's South End Is Up for Lease

by Marc Hurwitz

The future of a landmark seafood market and cafe that has been in business for more than 100 years appears to be very much in question.

According to a Twitter post from restaurant critic and food/drinks writer MC Slim JB, Morse Fish Company in Boston's South End is up for lease, with a note on Facebook telling us that a "For Lease" sign is indeed in the window of the Washington Street business. It is not yet known how much longer the market will remain open--or if someone might try to keep it in business--so keep checking back for updates.

Morse Fish Company first opened in 1903, according to Zagat, with the market offering such items as haddock, shrimp, scallops, clams, oysters, salmon, crab, lobster, calamari, swordfish, mussels, tilapia, and more.

The address for Morse Fish Company is 1401 Washington Street, Boston, MA, 02118

[May 14: According to a note sent by Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting, it appears that Morse will close in late May or early June.]

[May 25 update: A new message from Patrick Maguire indicates that Morse Fish Company closes today.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Seafood Dishes from Boston-Area and New England Restaurants]





Chilacates Owner Taking Over Grass Fed in Jamaica Plain

by Marc Hurwitz

The person behind a growing group of Mexican eateries is now looking at another space--and this one is home to a burger spot.

According to a source, Socrates Abreu of Chilacates is seeking to take over the Grass Fed space on Centre Street in Jamaica Plain, with a Facebook post from the Jamaica Plain Business & Professional Association confirming this, showing that Grass Fed is seeking to transfer its liquor license to Abreu. Grass Fed first opened on Centre Street in the spring of 2012, with the place having the same ownership as Ten Tables which is also on Centre Street; a second Grass Fed opened in nearby Forest Hills in the spring of 2016, but that location has since closed.

Chilacates has locations on Centre Street and Amory Street in JP, and two new outlets in Mission Hill and Chestnut Hill are in the works as well.

The address for Grass Fed is 605 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130.

[February 22 update: According to a poster within the Jamaica Plain Facebook group who was at the Jamaica Plain Business & Professional Association meeting yesterday, Socrates Abreu is apparently looking to keep Grass Fed in place, so this appears to be more of a transfer of business ownership than a new restaurant. We are waiting to hear back from Abreu, so more updates may be on the way.]

[February 27 update: A licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website confirms that Socrates Abreu is indeed planning to take over Grass Fed rather than open a new restaurant in its space.]

[July 15 update: According to a source, Grass Fed has a note in the window saying it is now closed for minor renovations and will be reopening under new ownership--and as stated above, it appears that Socrates Abreu of Chilacates will be reopening it. (The note also thanks its customers for their business and support over the past six years.)]

[March 27, 2019 update: Boston Magazine states that the restaurant might not be called Grass Fed after all, but that it will still center on burgers and it hopes to open by the middle of April.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


New Hotel Lounge Coming to AC Hotel Boston Downtown in the Ink Block Area

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a brand new hotel lounge is close to opening in a red-hot section of Boston just south of the downtown area.

According to various social media posts from bar manager Dennis Saint Aubin, a new dining and drinking spot is getting ready to open within the soon-to-open AC Hotel Boston Downtown in the city's Ink Block development. A message from Saint Aubin indicates that the space will be a "sleek, modern hotel lounge" that offers both food and drink, with some of the food options including clam chowder, New England crab cakes, artisanal burgers, Atlantic salmon, a bistro steak, herb-roasted chicken, and limoncello flutes, while craft beer, wine, and cocktails will be available, with a few drinks listed on the opening menu including gin and tonic, a smoked Manhattan, and a "Twisted Paloma" (Patron Blanco tequila, mezcal, agave nectar, lime juice, grapefruit soda). If all goes as planned, the new lounge could debut around March 1 when the hotel is scheduled to open.

Dennis Saint Aubin and Matthew Moore, who is the general manager of the new lounge, both worked at XV Beacon while Saint Aubin has been at such places as the now-closed Federalist and Abe and Louie's and Moore has worked at the Four Seasons.

The AC Hotel Boston Downtown (and the lounge) will be located at 225 Albany Street, which is between Traveler Street and Herald Street in the Ink Block area. Its web page is at http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/boscd-ac-hotel-boston-downtown/

[March 1 update: According to a Facebook post from Dennis Saint Aubin, the lounge at the AC Hotel Boston Downtown is now open.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Swissbakers Is Opening by North Station in Boston

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a trio of Boston-area bakery-cafes is in expansion mode again, with a new location apparently being planned for an area that should make it popular with commuters and sports fans.

According to a source, Swissbakers is planning to open at the Avalon North Station residential development, which is located at 1 Nashua Street next to North Station and TD Garden. Our source indicates that the proposed spot would have a bit less than 1,300 feet of space, and that a long-term lease appears to be in the works. It is not known exactly where in the building the new Swissbakers would be; currently, the structure is home to another dining spot--a location of Tasty Burger, which opened there last month.

Other locations of Swissbakers--which offers soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods with Swiss influences--can be found in Reading, Allston, and the Boston Public Market, along with various farmers markets in the region. (Another brick-and-mortar location will open at The Smith Center in Cambridge's Harvard Square at some point as well.)

The website for Swissbakers is at https://www.swissbakers.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]

Caffe Strega to Open in Downtown Boston

by Marc Hurwitz

A trio of Italian coffee bars from a well-known local restaurateur is going to be joined by a fourth, and this one will be in the heart of downtown Boston.

According to a Facebook post from CKI Design Studio, Caffe Strega is planning to open on Summer Street about midway between Downtown Crossing and South Station, with a rendering showing what appears to be a counter-service spot that may be in the lobby area of the building. Once it opens, the new cafe will join others in the South End, Back Bay, and the Seaport District, and the person behind it--Nick Varano of The Varano Group--also runs such places as Strega Waterfront at Fan Pier (which is where one of the Caffe Stregas resides), Strega North End, Nico in the North End, Strega Prime in Woburn, and Strip by Strega at the Boston Park Plaza Hotel.

The address for the upcoming location of Caffe Strega in downtown Boston is 99 Summer Street, Boston, MA, 02110. The website for the other locations of Caffe Strega can be found at http://www.caffestregaboston.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]





Hamilton Is Opening in Former Yasu Space in Brookline's Coolidge Corner

by Marc Hurwitz

A new restaurant and bar is coming to Brookline, and it will be moving into the space where a Japanese and Korean dining spot had once been.

According to several sources, Hamilton is opening on Beacon Street in the Coolidge Corner area, taking over the former Yasu space. A look at the design of the place on the CKI Design Studio Facebook page shows a bar with TVs and booths for dining, while a note on the page mentions that the dining and drinking spot could be opening by St. Patrick's Day if all goes well. Very little is known about the concept and ownership of the place, so keep checking back for updates.

Yasu closed down a couple of years ago, with the space subsequently being looked at by the people behind The Friendly Toast, but those plans ended up falling through.

The address for the upcoming Hamilton is 1366 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, 02446.

[February 24 update: An email sent from Nick Davidovich, who will be the chef at Hamilton and comes from such places as West Bridge, Salts, and 80 Thoreau, mentions that the restaurant will feature "good, simple, seasonal food, rooted in classic cooking," while beer, wine, and cocktails will be available. The note says that the 149-seat spot will include a dining area on one side and a bar with bar-style seating on the other side, with the spaces being separate from each other.]

[March 24 update: A job post from bostonchefs.com mentions that Hamilton will be opening soon and that its food will be "inspired by the spirit of the 'bistronomy' movement, globally influenced European cooking."]

[May 17, 2018 update: Eater Boston states that Hamilton had a "sneak peek" opening last weekend, though it is not yet known when its official opening will take place.]

[May 24, 2018 update: Hamilton had another sneak peek last weekend, and an Instagram post from them now states that the grand opening will take place on June 5.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Kelly's Roast Beef Plans to Debut a Food Truck, May Also Open Logan Airport Location

by Marc Hurwitz

A legendary group of roast beef spots that closed one of its locations a few weeks ago is now looking to expand in a couple of ways.

The Patch is reporting that Kelly's Roast Beef has purchased a food truck and that it is also looking to open a new location at Logan Airport, according to VP and director of operations Dan Doherty. While there is little other information to report on either of these plans, more should be coming soon, so stay tuned for updates as they come in.

Kelly's, which first started out in 1951 at Revere Beach, shut down its shop at Jordan's Furniture in Natick in late January after deciding not to renew its lease there. Other locations of the roast beef place, including in Danvers, Medford, and Saugus as well as Revere Beach, remain in operation.

The website for Kelly's Roast Beef can be found at http://www.kellysroastbeef.com/

Thanks to Universal Hub for initially bringing this to our attention.

[Earlier Article]
Kelly's Roast Beef in Natick Is Closing

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Sunday, February 18, 2018

Captain Fishbones in Quincy's Marina Bay to Become Victory Point

by Marc Hurwitz

A waterside seafood restaurant that changed ownership a bit more than a year ago is going to be reconcepted.

According to Kerry Byrne, who posted the news on the Quincy Is Everything Facebook group page today, Captain Fishbones in the Marina Bay section of Quincy is going to go through major renovations this spring, reopening at some point this year as Victory Point. Byrne says that the new dining spot will focus on lighter seasonal summer fare with the focus apparently remaining on seafood, and the place will have what Byrne calls a "breezy waterfront New England vibe."

Captain Fishbones was sold to a new team in late 2016 that includes Donato Frattaroli and Donato Frattaroli, Jr.; the Frattaroli family is involved with a number of restaurants in the Boston area, including such spots as Artu and il Molo in Boston's North End.

The address for Captain Fishbones (and the upcoming Victory Point) is 332 Victory Road, Quincy, MA, 02171.

[April 9 update: According to a source, Captain Fishbones is now closed, with a Facebook post confirming this; the post also mentions that owners Donato Frattaroli Sr. and Donato Frattaroli Jr.plan to open their "updated waterfront restaurant...just in time for the warmer weather."]

[April 24 update: A source tells us that Victory Point plans to open in the former Captain Fishbones space on Friday, April 27.]

[Earlier Article]
Captain Fishbones in Quincy's Marina Bay Is Being Sold

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Friday, February 16, 2018

Takusan Sushi in Brookline Has Been Replaced by Xiang Yu China Bistro

by Marc Hurwitz

A Pan-Asian restaurant in Brookline that was known in part for its all-you-can-eat sushi has very quietly shut down, and a Chinese eatery has moved into its space.

According to a source, Takusan Sushi on Beacon Street is no longer in operation, with a spot called Xiang Yu China Bistro now open in the space. A check on the website of the new restaurant indicates that its menu will be posted soon, but for now, it is not known exactly what Xiang Yu offers (we will post an update here as soon as we get to see a menu).

Takusan Sushi first opened in the summer of 2013, replacing Budda C, which had previously been called Buddachen; the space had also been home to a location of Jae's Cafe as well.

The address for the now-closed Takusan Sushi (and new Xiang Yu China Bistro) is 1223 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, 02446. The website for Xiang Yu can be found at http://www.xychinabistro.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]





BeanTowne Coffee House in Boston Has Closed; APM Coffee Opening in Space

by Marc Hurwitz

A trio of coffee shops is now down to two, as it has closed its Boston location--though a new coffee shop is getting ready to open in its space.

According to an email, BeanTowne Coffee House on Kneeland Street (near the border of Chinatown and the Leather District) has shut down, with a message from the company confirming that it has indeed closed for good. The message indicates that a new spot called APM Coffee is planning to open in the space on Monday, and that it will apparently be offering Intelligentsia coffee as well as artisan sandwiches.

BeanTowne Coffee House first opened its Boston location in early 2017; its other shops in Cambridge's Kendall Square and Hampstead, NH remain in operation, according to the message that was sent to us.

The address for the now-closed BeanTowne Coffee House (and the new APM Coffee) in Boston is 99 Kneeland Street, Boston, MA, 02111.

[February 19 update: Eater Boston confirms (via a Facebook post) that APM Coffee is now open.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]





Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Isshindo Ramen Is Opening in the Former Pikaichi Space in Allston

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a new ramen spot is coming to Allston, and it will be moving into the space where another restaurant known for its ramen had been.

Eater Boston is reporting that Isshindo Ramen is planning to open in the former Pikaichi space, which is located between the Hong Kong Supermarket/Super 88 market and its adjacent food court. As mentioned earlier, Pikaichi is going to be reopening in a new space in Medford, taking over the storefront on Boston Avenue where Emiliano'z had been.

Very little is currently known about Isshindo Ramen; as soon as we find out more, we will post an update here.

The address for Isshindo Ramen will be 1 Brighton Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134.

[February 12, 2019 update: Eater Boston states that Isshindo Ramen is now open in the former Pikaichi space, and that it offers ramen with pork, miso, and tomato-based broth options, along with fried chicken, rice bowls, seaweed salad, dumplings, and more. (Eater also mentions that the new place does not have a liquor license.)]

[Earlier Articles]
Pikaichi in Allston Is Closing; May Move to New Location
Pikaichi to Move into Former Emiliano'z Space in Medford

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]




One Ramen & Sushi Is Opening in Super Fusion Space in Cambridge

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a new Japanese restaurant will be replacing another Japanese spot in Cambridge.

According to a license commission hearing agenda page within the city's website, a new place called "One" is planning to open on Mass. Ave., with the address indicating that it is moving into the Super Fusion space just south of Porter Square, and one of our sources (Tom Meek) posted a picture on Facebook showing that there is a sign in the window of the space saying that One Ramen & Sushi is coming soon. (A check on the Super Fusion website shows a note saying that it is "closed for remodeling" and that the new spot will open in March.) Super Fusion first opened in the fall of 2010, taking over the space where Seoul Food had once been.

The address for this new Japanese restaurant near Porter Square is: One Ramen & Sushi, 1759 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA,02140.

[March 28 update: Eater Boston states that One Ramen & Sushi is now open in Cambridge.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]





Wen's Yunnan Noodle and Ramen is Opening a Second Location in Boston

by Marc Hurwitz

A Back Bay restaurant that features "crossing-the-bridge noodles" will soon be joined by a second location in downtown Boston.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Wen's Yunnan Noodle & Ramen on Newbury Street is getting ready to expand to a storefront on Tremont Street across from Boston Common. Based on the menu at the Back Bay location, expect to see Yunnan-style rice noodle soup, which is typically found in the extreme southwest corner of China, along with ramen, gyoza, rice dishes, and more.

The original location of Wen's Yunnan Noodle & Ramen first opened on Newbury Street in the spring of 2016.

The address for this new restaurant in downtown Boston is: Wen's Yunnan Noodle & Ramen, 145 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02111. The website for the Back Bay location can be found at https://www.wensnoodle.com/

[September 21 update: A message from @CappyinBoston indicates that Wen's Yunnan Noodle & Ramen is now open in downtown Boston.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Twelve Food Items from Asian Restaurants in the Boston Area]





Second Cup Coffee Company Plans to Open First Location in New England By North Station in Boston

by Marc Hurwitz

A Canadian coffee retailer is opening its first cafe in New England, and it will be located right in the heart of Boston.

According to a Twitter post from @KatCornetta, Second Cup Coffee Company is coming to a storefront by North Station and TD Garden, with a check on the website for the business showing that it will be opening on Causeway Street across the street from both. The company, which started out in 1975 and is based in Mississauga, Ontario, currently has three locations in the United States--in Florida, South Carolina, and Wisconsin--and offers pastries, baked goods, sandwiches, and smoothies in addition to a variety of coffee options.

The address for this upcoming cafe near North Station and TD Garden is: Second Cup Coffee Company, 97 Causeway Sreett, Boston, MA, 02114. Its website can be found at http://mysecondcup.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]

Thirst in South Boston Has Closed

by Marc Hurwitz

It looks like a little-known bar in South Boston has very quietly closed its doors.

According to a message from @chipsy231, Thirst on E 2nd Street is shuttered, with a call to the place this morning indicating that its phone is no longer in service, a check on its Facebook page showing that the page is gone, and the Yelp page for the place saying that it has indeed closed. More confirmation of Thirst's closure appears to come from a post from Caught In Southie as well, which mentions that the bar may be selling its liquor license to the upcoming Backyard Betty's on W Broadway.

As soon as we hear more about the closing of Thirst, we will post an update here.

The address for Thirst was 645 E 2nd Street, South Boston, MA, 02127.

[February 14 update: An email sent to us indicates that Thirst shut down for good in late January and that its license has indeed been transferred to Backyard Betty's.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]





Tuesday, February 13, 2018

Croke Park/Whitey's in South Boston to Start Serving Food

by Marc Hurwitz

A classic Boston dive that was once picked as one of the best bars in America will soon be offering food to go with its cheap beer and liquor.

Universal Hub is reporting that Croke Park in South Boston (which is also known as Whitey's) will have to start serving food because it has a food-serving license but it currently does not have a kitchen or a food-prep area. The article says that the owner of the bar has told the Boston Licensing Board that he will have a kitchen installed and "simple sandwiches" will be offered, including BLTs. In the past, Croke Park has been only offering such items as potato chips and pickles, while customers have been allowed to bring in food from a couple of pizza spots nearby as well as a location of Burger King, which is next door.

An earlier article here mentioned that in 2016, Esquire Magazine included Croke Park/Whitey's in its list of best bars in the United States, with the magazine's drinks editor David Wondrich saying that "I do my best to exercise good—okay, goodish—judgment when I'm touring barrooms, but every once in a while, a gear slips a tooth and dosages get miscalculated. Whitey's is a slipped tooth."

The address for Croke Park/Whitey's is 268 W Broadway, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its website can be found at http://crokeparkwhiteys.com/

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Good Places to Get Beer in the Boston Area]





Bar Orange to Open in the Forest Hills Section of Jamaica Plain

by Marc Hurwitz

A new restaurant and bar is coming to a space in Jamaica Plain that has been home to couple of other dining and drinking spots over the past several years, and a familiar name is behind the place.

The Jamaica Plain News is reporting that Bar Orange is planning to open in the Forest Hills section of JP (across from the T station), with the Washington Street spot moving into the space where a second location of Grass Fed had been, and before that, Tonic. The post says that the place will more of a restaurant than a bar, with dishes featuring locally-sourced ingredients, and local beers will be offered. Bob O'Guin of Common Ground in Allston and Arlington is behind Bar Orange, according to the article.

If all goes as planned, Bar Orange could be opening in April.

The address for this upcoming restaurant and bar in Forest Hills is: Bar Orange, 3698 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130. Its Facebook page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/Bar-Orange-Jamaica-Plain-261848994341661

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Monday, February 12, 2018

Avi Shemtov of The Chubby Chickpea May Be Taking Over Canton Junction Sports Pub

by Marc Hurwitz

A well-known local chef hopes to turn a suburban sports bar into a casual but more upscale dining and drinking spot.

According to an article in Boston Magazine, Avi Shemtov of The Chubby Chickpea (a Middle Eastern food truck and catering business) is working with the owner of the Canton Junction Sports Pub to possibly open Salt & Sickle, with the plans being to keep the general overall feel of the bar area while changing the dining room into a "quieter, upscale bistro." The post says that the Neponset Street space has two kitchens, while will allow Shemtov to move operations for The Chubby Chickpea--along with Simcha, his Israeli pop-up--into the space, while an adjacent function room will be used for various events. Included on the Salt & Sickle menu will be scratch-made bar pizzas and wings along with fresh pasta and dishes such as seared duck breast Wellington in puff pastry with whipped feta, while both local and mass-market beers will be offered.

Boston Magazine says that the restaurant and bar at the Canton Junction Sports Pub could shut down briefly in May and that Salt & Sickle may potentially be opening by or before mid-July if all goes well.

The address for the Canton Junction Sports Pub (and the proposed Salt & Sickle) is 399 Neponset Street, Canton, MA, 02021.

[September 12 update: A message from Avi Shemtov indicates that plans have fallen through for his taking over the Canton Junction Sports Pub. (And as mentioned in a recent post here, Shemtov now plans to open Simcha, an Israeli restaurant in Sharon.)]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[A related post from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]





Caffe Nero Is Opening in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

by Marc Hurwitz

A rapidly-growing chain of European coffee places is opening yet another shop in Boston. and this one would be in one of the hottest parts of the city.

According to a source, Caffe Nero is planning to open in the Fenway section of Boston, with the address given indicates that it would be opening on Boylston Street near the Kilmarnock Street intersection. A hearing listing for the proposed spot shows that it would include an outdoor patio during the warmer months, with possible seating for 32 on the patio. The hearing is expected to take place on February 21, so more updates on the new location of Cafe Nero may be coming late next week.

Caffe Nero, which is based in London, opened its first Boston shop at the Millennium Place building in Downtown Crossing in 2014 and now has a number of outlets in and around the city.

The address for this new coffee spot in the Fenway is: Caffe Nero, 1375 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for Caffe Nero can be found at http://www.caffenero.com/

[February 27 update: Eater Boston states that the new location of Caffe Nero in the Fenway opens today.]

Follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston


[Related article from our sister site (Boston's Hidden Restaurants): Slideshow--Ten Items from Bakeries and Pastry Shops in the Boston Area and Beyond]