Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Pita Cambridge Is Opening in the Former Olecito Space in Cambridge's Inman Square

A new Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dining spot is on its way to Cambridge, and it will be taking over the space where a Mexican eatery had been.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Pita Cambridge is opening in the former Olecito space in Inman Square, with the Springfield Street restaurant being run by Mohamad El Zein and Radouan Ouassaidi of Moona, a Mediterranean spot on nearby Cambridge Street. The post says that the new place will be a fast-casual eatery open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and it will also offer grab-and-go items and a retail section of products made in-house. (Catering will be available as well.)

Mohamad El Zein used to be part of the Masa Restaurant Group, while Radouan Ouassaidi is involved with two other Pita locations--one in the South End and another in the Back Bay/Fenway area.

Earlier this year, we reported that one of the owners of Felipe's Taqueria in Harvard Square might be taking over the Ole space across the street from Olecito; it is not sure if these plans are still in place.

The address for Pita Cambridge is 12 Springfield Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139.

[December 14 update: Based on a license commission agenda page, it has been confirmed that Pita Cambridge will indeed be going into the former Olecito space (there had been conflicting reports about whether it might move into the Ole space instead) and that it will have seating for 7 inside and 10 outside.]

[March 5, 2018 update: Eater Boston states that Pita Cambridge is now open.]

[Earlier Article]
Felipe's Owner to Open Oaxaca Taco in Ole! Mexican Grill Space in Cambridge

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, August 29, 2017

Liquid Art House in Boston to Be Replaced by a New Concept

It looks like a combination restaurant/art gallery in Boston is being reconcepted.

According to an article in Bisnow, Liquid Art House on Arlington Street will be the site of a new venture, with Liquid Art House founder Ruta Laukien partnering with Turkish restaurant group Dogus Restaurant Entertainment and Management on the upcoming concept. The article says that the plan is to shut down the restaurant for six to eight weeks as soon as they get approval on changes to its liquor license, with renovations being made to the space. The new spot--which does not yet have a name--will feature globally-inspired fare and will be "more approachable," with a mix of formal seating and lounge-style dining, a raw bar, and a dessert-plating station being part of the space. The post says that Laukien is also looking at the West End of Boston and Miami for future locations of the new concept.

Liquid Art House first opened in the spring of 2012, moving into the former Boston Renaissance School building.

The address for Liquid Art House (and the upcoming dining spot replacing it) is 100 Arlington Street, Boston, MA, 02116.

[November 17 update: According to a Facebook post (and a message) from Henry Santoro of WGBH, Liquid Art House closes its doors tonight, with major renovations starting early next week as the space gets ready to be rebranded.]

[November 20 update: According to a notice within the E.F. Smith website, Liquid Art House is having an auction on Tuesday, November 28, with some of the items listed including a chandelier, a marble hostess stand, a white Italian marble oval bar top, a communal log table, and more.]

[May 16, 2018 update: It looks like the new restaurant replacing Liquid Art House could be getting close to opening, as a Craigslist post indicates that they are now hiring for all positions. (No name has been given for the restaurant as of yet.)]

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, August 28, 2017

The Ship Restaurant in Lynnfield Has Been Torn Down

Earlier this year, we reported that another Route 1 landmark could be disappearing from the landscape. Now we have learned that this has indeed happened.

Both a Facebook post and a tweet indicate that The Ship Restaurant in Lynnfield was demolished today, with the Twitter post showing the structure in the process of being torn down. Back in January, it was learned that the property might be replaced by a new building that would apparently include retail space along with a restaurant and coffee shop--and an adjoining condo complex could be built as well. (The restaurant itself closed sometime around the middle of January.) The site on Route 1 had been home to ship-based restaurants with different names since at least the 1930s, including an original version of The Ship Restaurant before it was replaced by a  location of the Mount Vernon Restaurant, which was eventually taken over by a new version of The Ship Restaurant.

Other iconic spots that have disappeared over the past several years on Route 1 include Hilltop Steak House, Weylu's, and Route 1 Miniature Golf.

The address for The Ship Restaurant was 24 Broadway (Route 1), Lynnfield, MA, 01940.

Thanks to Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting for initially bringing this to our attention.

[Earlier Article]
The Ship Restaurant in Lynnfield May Be Demolished

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]





Haru Sushi at the Prudential Center in Boston's Back Bay Has Closed

An upscale sushi bar in the Back Bay of Boston is no longer in business.

Universal Hub is reporting (via a Twitter post from @MattSoleyn) that Haru Sushi at the Prudential Center has shut down, with another tweet indicating that it apparently closed for good late last week or over the weekend. Based on the locations page within its website, it looks like all six of its locations in Manhattan remain in operation.

Haru, which first opened at the Pru a bit less than 10 years ago, was known for its variety of sushi options along with such items as dumplings, teriyaki, tempura, katsu, udon and soba dishes, and filet mignon.

The website for the New York locations of Haru can be found at  http://www.harusushi.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]





Cook in Newtonville to Be Joined by Second Location in Needham

A casual upscale restaurant in Newton will soon be joined by a second location in a neighboring town.

The Needham Times is reporting that Cook is opening in Needham, taking over the space on Chapel Street where Not Your Average Joe's had been until closing in April of this year. Once it opens, the new location of Cook--which is described by owner Paul Turano as a spot with "Creative-American" food--will join its original location on Washington Street in Newtonville. (Turano had also previously run Tryst in Arlington.)

If all goes as planned, Cook could be opening in Needham by the end of September.

The address for the upcoming location of Cook is 109 Chapel Street, Needham, MA, 02492. The website for the original location can be found at http://cooknewton.com/

[October 6 update: A press release indicates that the new location of Cook in Needham opens tomorrow (Saturday, October 7).]

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, August 27, 2017

Kohi Coffee Company in Provincetown Opening at Boston Landing in Brighton

Earlier this year, we mentioned that a coffee shop was one of three dining spots opening at a new development in Brighton. Now it appears that it could soon be one step closer to being up and running by this week.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the city of Boston website, Kohi Coffee Company has applied for a common victualler license to operate at Boston Landing, with the hearing taking place on Wednesday, August 30. As mentioned earlier by Boston Magazine, this will be a second location of Kohi, with the original being found on Commercial Street in Provincetown, and the article says that it could have such items as soups, grilled cheese sandwiches, morning toasts, and more. The hearing notice indicates that the new Kohi in Brighton might have operating hours from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but it is too early to know if these hours will hold.

One other restaurant has already opened at Boston Landing--Rail Stop Restaurant and Bar--while a location of Flatbread Company is also on the way as well.

The website for Kohi Coffee Company is at http://www.kohicoffee.com/

[October 13 update: Eater Boston states that Kohi Coffee Company is now open at Boston Landing.]

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, August 25, 2017

320 Cafe to Open in Former Spring Street Cafe Space in West Roxbury

A new restaurant is moving into a space in West Roxbury where another dining spot had been for more than a decade, and the person behind it has quite a bit of experience in the industry.

Universal Hub is reporting that Joseph Adamo is opening 320 Cafe in the old Spring Street Cafe space by Spring Street and VFW Parkway, with the eatery looking to be open for breakfast and lunch and possibly offering alcohol if a liquor license can be acquired. Adamo is currently the executive chef at Aragosta Bar and Bistro at the Battery Wharf Hotel in Boston's North End, and he also has more than 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, including at places in Europe, according to Universal Hub. [Ed note: Some of UH's information has come from a post within the Chronicles of West Roxbury Facebook group page.]

Spring Street Cafe closed down in March of this year, and while there has been talk that it could reopen in a new location, there appears to be no confirmation of this as of yet.

The address for this upcoming restaurant in West Roxbury is: 320 Cafe, 320 Spring Street, West Roxbury, MA, 02132.

[Earlier Article]
Spring Street Cafe in West Roxbury Has Closed

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]





Thursday, August 24, 2017

Tender Greens to Open at The Street in Chestnut Hill

A California-based group of restaurants that is backed by one of the most successful restaurateurs in the country is opening its first location in the Boston area (and Massachusetts).

According to a press release, Tender Greens is planning to open at The Street, a mixed-used development in Chestnut Hill that is also home to Shake Shack. The release says that Danny Meyer, whose New York-based Union Square Hospitality Group operates the Shake Shack restaurants, is also an investor in Tender Greens, whose Chestnut Hill location will be open for lunch and dinner and will focus on seasonal and responsibly-sourced comfort food. If all goes as planned, the new eatery will be opening in the spring of 2018.

The website for Tender Greens can be found at https://www.tendergreens.com/

[April 5, 2018 update: Boston Magazine mentions that Tender Greens opens at The Street in Chestnut Hill on Monday, April 9.]

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]





Muscle Maker Grill Opens in Saugus

A Texas-based chain of health-focused restaurants has opened its first outlet in Massachusetts, and it is located a few miles north of Boston.

According to an article in the Saugus Advertiser, Muscle Maker Grill is now open on Route 1, with the eatery offering such items as soups, salads, wraps, "fit" bowls, pasta, flatbreads, smoothies, protein shakes, and more. The post says that in addition to its in-house menu items, the dining spot also has a Meal Plan program that gives customers the option to purchase pre-orders of a set of meals by phone, online, picking up at the restaurant, or by delivery.

Muscle Maker Grill, which is based in Texas, first started out in 1995.

The address for this new restaurant in Saugus is: Muscle Maker Grill, 358 Broadway, Saugus, MA, 01906. The chain's website can be found at https://musclemakergrill.com/

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]





Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Kings Bowl America Becoming Kings Dining and Entertainment; Flagship to Open in Boston's Seaport District

An expanding group of entertainment facilities based in the local area is being rebranded--and its flagship location will soon be opening on the Boston waterfront.

According to a press release, Kings Bowl America is changing its name to Kings Dining and Entertainment, with the change being made as it continues to evolve from group of bowling, dining, and drinking spots to more of a full-fledged group of entertainment complexes. As earlier reported, its flagship--and largest location--is slated to debut at One Seaport Square in the Seaport District in October, and it will be billed as a multi-floor "adult playground" with a sports bar, an arcade bar, billiards, multiple bowling areas, a private bowling room, three corporate event rooms, and DJs nightly.

Currently, locations of Kings can be found in Boston's Back Bay along with Burlington, Dedham, Lynnfield, Raleigh, NC, Franklin, TN, Doral and Orlando, FL, and Rosemont, IL. Its website is at http://kingsbowlamerica.com/

[October 14 update: According to a press release, the new Kings in the Seaport District is slated to open on October 30.]

[Earlier Article]
Kings to Open in Boston's Seaport District

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]





Jack's Coal Fired Pizza Is Opening in Burlington

Earlier this year, we reported that a new pizzeria was going to be one of two dining spots replacing an Italian restaurant in the northern suburbs of Boston. Now we have learned that this is still happening, though the name of the place has changed.

According to a job post within the Craigslist site, Jack's Coal Fired Pizza is opening in Burlington in the former Papa Razzi Metro space on Wall Street, with one part of the space being taken over by a location of Temazcal Tequila Cantina, which is now open. The original plans had been for Temazcal and Tony's Coal Fire Pizza to open in the Papa Razzi space, with both being run by Rebel Restaurants, Inc., an affiliate of The Cronin Group. It is not known if Jack's Coal Fired Pizza will also be run by Rebel Restaurants, Inc.; as soon as we find out more information, we will post an update here.

The address for the new Jack's Coal Fired Pizza is 2 Wall Street, Burlington, MA, 01803.

[October 2 update: Eater Boston states that Jack's Coal Fired Pizza opens its doors this evening.]

[Earlier Article]
Temazcal, Tony's Coal Fire Pizza to Open in Former Papa Razzi Space in Burlington

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]





Sweet Tomatoes in West Newton Has Reopened

A West Newton pizza shop that was the site of a fatal SUV crash last year is open once again.

According to an article from CBS Boston, Sweet Tomatoes on Washington Street has reopened, with the place giving out free slices to city police officers, firefighters, and EMTs on Monday, while a Facebook post says that "We would like to give a heartfelt thank you to all the [Newton] responders." In March of 2016, an SUV drove through an intersection and into the front of the eatery at dinnertime, killing two people and injuring seven others; because of the accident, crash-resistant safety bollards are now set up outside the dining spot as protection against this happening again.

Other locations of Sweet Tomatoes can be found in Newton Centre, Needham, and at Northeastern University in Boston. The website for all of the shops is at http://sweettomatoespizza.com/

[Earlier Article]
Two People Killed After SUV Crashes into Sweet Tomatoes in West Newton

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]





Chilacates Is Opening a New Location in Boston's Mission Hill Neighborhood

A pair of Mexican eateries in Jamaica Plain will be expanding to a third location not too far away from the others.

Eater Boston is reporting (via a poster on Twitter) that Chilacates is opening in the Mission Hill section of Boston, with the Tremont Street spot joining shops on Amory Street and Centre Street in JP. The article says that a lease has already been signed for the space and that a buildout will now take place, which could take four to six months.

Chilacates first opened its original Amory Street shop in the summer of 2015, offering such items as burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and tortas; the second location opened this past February in the Centre Street space where Pink Samurai was supposed to have been. The pair of restaurants have been media and industry darlings since opening, with Boston Magazine giving it a "best of" for Mexican food this year.

The address for the new Chilacates in Mission Hill is 1480 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02120.

[January 22, 2019 update: A licensing board hearing page indicates that the long-awaited Mission Hill location of Chilacates could finally be a step closer to opening by this week, as a meeting on its application for a Common Victualler License is scheduled to take place tomorrow. This could still end up being its third location even with outlets in the South End, Roslindale, and Chestnut Hill now in the works as well, though an Instagram post from last month hints that the Chestnut Hill shop may also be close to opening.]

[February 11, 2019 update: Eater Boston mentions that the Mission Hill location of Chilacates opened its doors yesterday, becoming the fourth location of the group of Mexican restaurants (as stated here earlier, the Chestnut Hill location opened on Friday).]

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, August 22, 2017

Naumkeag Ordinary in Salem Has Closed

It looks like a North Shore restaurant and bar that featured seasonal American fare has shut its doors.

According to a source, Naumkeag Ordinary in Salem is no longer in business, with the place apparently closing down over the past day or so. The dining spot, which first opened in April of 2013, was known in part for its inventive takes on pub-style food and American classics, including such items as truffle fries, deviled eggs, tacos, poutine, burgers, Cubanos, pork chops, macaroni and cheese, chicken pot pie, and gnocchi, along with a rotating list of craft beers and wines.

The address for this now-closed restaurant in Salem was: Naumkeag Ordinary, 118 Washington Street, Salem, MA, 01970.

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]





Moody's Delicatessen Is Opening in Rebecca's Cafe Space in the Back Bay of Boston

An award-winning deli is on its way to Boston's Back Bay, and it will be replacing a cafe near Copley Square.

According to a source, Moody's Delicatessen is opening on Boylston Street in the space where a location of Rebecca's Cafe currently resides. It appears that Rebecca's closes for good on September 8, clearing the way for construction on the space to commence, possibly in the next month or so. This will be the second location of Moody's Deli, with the original being on Moody Street in Waltham; owner Joshua Smith also runs New England Charcuterie, a meat-processing plant near the Waltham/Belmont line, and he will also be opening an oyster/ceviche bar and a taco and BBQ spot next to the Waltham location of Moody's.

An earlier Boston Magazine article had mentioned that Moody's was planning to come to the Back Bay, but no address had been given at the time.

Other locations of Rebecca's Cafe can be found in Boston, Cambridge, Burlington, Newton, and Waltham; the Back Bay outlet had been in business for nearly 20 years.

The address for the new Moody's Delicatessen is 500 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for Moody's is at http://moodyswaltham.com/ while the website for Rebecca's is at http://www.rebeccascafe.com/

[September 8 update: A phone call placed to the business indicates that Rebecca's Cafe on Boylston Street in the Back Bay is now closed.]

[December 5 update: Boston Magazine states that Moody's is expected to open in the Back Bay on Monday, December 11.]

[December 8 update: A tweet from @bosfeed says that Moody's is having what appears to be a soft opening today in the Back Bay, with an Instagram post from the place confirming that it is indeed open.]

[December 11 update: A Facebook post from the place indicates that today is Grand Opening day for Moody's in the Back Bay.]

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]





Jaho Coffee and Tea Is Opening in Boston's Back Bay

It looks like a local coffee roaster with three shops in the region is expanding further into Boston.

According to a source, Jaho Coffee and Tea plans to open a new location in the Back Bay, with the new location being in an office building on Huntington Avenue next to Copley Place and the Prudential Center. Based on its other locations, expect to see a variety of coffees and teas offered along with soups, salads, sandwiches, pastries, and more, and it appears that this concept will be like the one in the Downtown Crossing/Chinatown area (which is also known as Jaho Coffee Roaster & Wine Bar), with beer, wine, and spirits available as well.

Once it opens, the new location of Jaho Coffee and Tea will join other Jaho outlets in Downtown Crossing/Chinatown, the South End, and Salem, along with a shop in Tokyo.

The address for the new Jaho Coffee and Tea is 116 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for all locations can be found at https://www.jaho.com/

[July 2, 2018 update: Boston Magazine states that the upcoming location of Jaho Coffee and Tea in the Back Bay will include a sit-down bar, a lounge, and an outdoor patio.]

[September 23, 2018 update: An update within the Boston Magazine article above indicates that Jaho Coffee and Tea opens its Back Bay location tomorrow (Monday, September 24).]

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]





Hurricane O'Reilly's Near Boston's North Station Sold to The Briar Group

It looks like a well-known Boston bar that is popular with sports fans is going to be sold to a new owner.

According to a media source, Hurricane O'Reilly's by North Station and TD Garden is slated to change ownership pending approval by the city, with the information given indicating that Glynn Hospitality would transfer ownership of the Canal Street spot to "150 Canal Street Inc." Our source indicates that the proposed manager would be Austin O'Connor, who heads up The Briar Group, so it appears that they are taking it over.

In addition to Hurricane O'Reilly's, Glynn Hospitality also operates The Black Rose, Brownstone, Central Wharf, Cleary's, Coogan's, Dillon's, the Granary Tavern, Sports Grille, and Sterling's, while The Briar Group runs Anthem, Brew, City Bar, City Table, Gather, Glass House, The Green Briar, The Harp, K2, Ned Devine's, O'Connor's, and Solas.

The address for Hurricane O'Reilly's is 150 Canal Street, Boston, MA, 02114. It's website can be found at https://www.hurricaneoreillysboston.com/

[August 27 update: A licensing board hearing page within the city of Boston website confirms that Hurricane O'Reilly's has petitioned to transfer its license to a new owner, with Austin O'Connor indeed being the manager listed, though no specific information on plans for the space has been given.]

[August 31 update: Eater Boston confirms that Hurricane O'Reilly's is indeed being sold to The Briar Group.]

[December 13 update: A check on its website and social media pages indicates that The Briar Group has taken over Hurricane O'Reilly's and that it is open for business as usual and under the same name for now.]

[December 18 update: Eater Boston states that Hurricane O'Reilly's will become Hurricane's at the Garden next month and that the space is currently undergoing renovations (it will remain open as changes are made), with the updated menu including salads, pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and more along with 16 draft lines and a full bar.]

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]





Monday, August 21, 2017

Spotlight Tavern in Beverly Has Closed; Auction Taking Place Tomorrow

A North Shore restaurant, bar, and music club has shut its doors, and an auction will be taking place at the site.

According to a source, the Spotlight Tavern in Beverly abruptly closed down last week, with a variety of items from the Rantoul Street spot hitting the auction block tomorrow. An article from Vanyaland confirms that the closure took place "very quietly and very suddenly," and it is not yet known why it shuttered (stay tuned for more updates as they come in).

In addition to live music, the Spotlight Tavern was also known for comedy and art events as well, with food offerings including mostly comfort food, pub grub, and American classics.

The address for the now-closed Spotlight Tavern was 208 Rantoul Street, Beverly, MA, 01915.

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]





Pad Thai Cafe Is Reopening in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood, Taking Over Rice Bowl Space

A Thai restaurant that closed down late last year and was replaced by a new dining spot and music venue is returning, moving into a nearby space where another eatery had been.

According to a Facebook post from Drew Starr, Pad Thai Cafe is opening on Hemenway Street in the Fenway neighborhood of Boston, taking over the space where Rice Bowl had been. Pad Thai Cafe had formerly been in the same block on Boylston Street but it shut down last December, with The Bebop subsequently taking over the space. (The Bebop is a restaurant, bar, and music club from the people behind The Burren in Somerville's Davis Square.) It is not yet known when Pad Thai Cafe might open, so keep checking back for updates.

The new address for Pad Thai Cafe is 6 Hemenway Street, Boston, MA, 02115.

[January 23, 2018 update: A message from @BostonZest indicates that Pad Thai Cafe is now open in its new space on Hemenway Street.]

[Earlier Article]
The Bebop Opens in Former Pad Thai Cafe in Boston's Fenway/Kenmore Neighborhood

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]





Sunday, August 20, 2017

Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, NH Closed After Fire

A decades-old institution for seafood is closed after being hit by a fire, and it is not known when it could reopen.

According to a post from NBC Boston, Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, NH, suffered major damage from a blaze early this morning, with the kitchen and the rear of the building being destroyed by the fire and the dining room having smoke and water damage. The Facebook page for the seafood shack simply says that it is looking to reopen "as soon as possible" while it also hopes to take part in the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, which takes place September 8-10.

Brown's, which first opened in 1950, is one of New England's best-known seafood restaurants, and it is often mentioned in the same breath as Markey's, another longtime seafood shack that is located across the street.

The address for Brown's Lobster Pound is 407 Route 286, Seabrook, NH, 03874. Its website can be found at http://brownslobsterpound.com/

[September 1 update: The New Hampshire Union Leader states that Brown's Lobster Pound remains closed after the fire, but it will be able to take part in the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival next weekend. The article also says that the restaurant hopes to reopen in mid-to-late October if all goes well.]

[March 8, 2018 update: WMUR says that Brown's Lobster Pound plans to open on March 23, even after a scare during last weekend's storm when it was hit by flooding.]

[March 22, 2018 update: A new Facebook post from the place mentions that tomorrow's opening date has been pushed back because of the bad weather and delays in the delivery of equipment.]

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]





Friday, August 18, 2017

Plans for Round 1 Bowling & Amusements in Saugus Withdrawn, May Be Modified

Last month we reported that a family entertainment spot that would include bowling, billiards, food, drink, and more could be on its way to Saugus. Now we have learned that these plans have been shelved, at least for now.

According to an article from Wicked Local, plans for Round 1 Bowling & Amusements to open at the Square One Mall have fallen through, as the company has withdrawn its proposal without prejudice after town selectmen raised concerns such as the possible draining of public safety resources and alcohol-related issues. The company will still be able to talk about its plans with the Saugus police department and reapply if it wishes to do so, though it is not yet known if this will indeed happen.

One location of the Japan-based Round 1 Bowling & Amusements can be found in Massachusetts (in Taunton) while another 14 outlets can be found in nine other states.

The website for Round 1 Bowling & Amusements is at http://www.round1usa.com/

[December 8 update: Wicked Local states that the group behind Round 1 Bowling & Amusements did indeed modify their proposal, making the closing time 1:00 AM instead of 2:00 AM and offering plans to install mirrored walls, glass doors, and security cameras in the private karaoke rooms, but the Saugus Board of Selectmen rejected the application, citing "public discontent and concerns from the Saugus Police Department." The article mentions that the group may appeal the decision, with their decision expected over the next few days.]

[Earlier Article]
Round 1 Bowling & Amusements May Be Opening in Saugus

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]





Thursday, August 17, 2017

Craft Table & Bar to Replace Ecco in East Boston

Earlier this summer, we reported that an upscale restaurant and lounge in East Boston had closed for renovations and would remain shuttered for several weeks. Now we have learned that a brand new dining and drinking spot is going into its space.

According to a source, New England Craft Restaurant Concepts is opening Craft Table & Bar in the Porter Street space where Ecco had been until late June, with the new place being a "polished" casual restaurant that features mostly classic and modern American fare along with a variety of beer, wine, and spirits options. The group behind the new spot is also opening a location of Craft Table & Bar in Worcester as well, along with several Brew on the Grid coffee shops in the Greater Boston area.

Ecco, which opened a bit less than 10 years ago, was known in part for its New American dishes and its cocktails.

The address for the upcoming Craft Table & Bar (and now-closed Ecco) is 107 Porter Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. The website for both locations of Craft Table & Bar can be found at http://www.crafttableandbar.com/

[January 30, 2018 update: Eater Boston states that Craft Table & Bar opens on Friday, February 2.]

[Earlier Articles]
Ecco in East Boston Closed For Renovations; Plans to Reopen in Five Weeks
Brew on the Grid to Open in Cambridge, Lynn, Marlborough, and Salem

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]





Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Finnegan's Wake in Walpole Is Moving to a New Home

A difficult-to-find Irish pub that has been featured on our sister site has closed its doors, but it is reopening in a new space.

According to a source, Finnegan's Wake in Walpole is no longer in business, with the Facebook page for the Glenwood Avenue spot confirming that it shut down last month, saying that "We both have been so lucky to have made so many friends here....now we move forward to our new location!!! (Which should be announced soon)" Finnegan's Wake, which had been located in the basement of an old foundry, has been mentioned as an under-the-radar spot on the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site, with the review being found here:

http://www.hiddenboston.com/FinnegansWake.html

The address for the now-closed location of Finnegan's Wake was 7 Glenwood Avenue (East Street), Walpole, MA, 02081.

[September 5 update: A new Facebook post from the place indicates that Finnegan's Wake has found a new home; it is reopening at 685 Main Street (Route 1A) in Rocky's Plaza, which is a short distance north of Walpole Center.]

[February 14, 2018 update: According to a tweet from @NewEnglandInfo, Finnegan's Wake is now open in its new home.]

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]





Moon Bar Opens Under Mooncusser Fish House in Boston's Back Bay

The team behind an upscale seafood restaurant in the Back Bay of Boston has debuted a more casual wine bar below the dining spot.

Boston Magazine is reporting that Moon Bar opens today on Stuart Street, two floors below Mooncusser Fish House, with the kitchen for the business being between the two places on the second floor. (The bar resides in the former Viga space.) The article says that the 48-seat bar is an "elegant yet approachable" spot that has a separate menu from Mooncusser, including seafood options such as a softshell crab BLT, grilled swordfish souvlaki, and fried scallops ravioli. In addition to wine offerings, Moon Bar also serves craft beers on tap, and a couple of dessert options are available as well. Hours for the place are 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and reservations are not accepted.

The owners of Moon Bar and Mooncusser Fish House also run 80 Thoreau in Concord.

The address for this new bar in the Back Bay is: Moon Bar, 304 Stuart Street, Boston, MA, 02116.

[Earlier Article]
Mooncusser Fish House Is Opening in Boston's Back Bay

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]





Brew on the Grid to Open in Cambridge, Lynn, Marlborough, and Salem

The group behind a Worcester coffee shop will be expanding the place to several locations in Eastern Massachusetts.

Eater Boston is reporting that Brew on the Grid is planning to open in Cambridge this month, Lynn this fall, Marlborough in November, and Salem next year, with Frank Peace and his New England Craft Restaurant Concepts group being behind the shops. This jibes with information from an earlier article from the Worcester Business Journal, and as reported here earlier, it looks like New England Craft Restaurant Concepts is also taking over Ecco in East Boston, which is currently closed for renovations. The earlier article here also mentioned that the restaurant group could be looking at expanding one or more of its brands nationwide, though it is not yet known which ones. (The group runs a handful of different restaurants in addition to Brew on the Grid.)

The original Brew on the Grid in Worcester offers salads, sandwiches, pastries, and more in addition to coffee. The website for the business can be found at http://www.brewonthegrid.com/

[August 30 update: According to an update from EB, the first Boston-area location of Brew on the Grid opens today, as its new shop on 93 Windsor Street in Cambridge is now up and running.]

[March 2, 2018 update: Eater Boston states that Brew on the Grid in Cambridge has closed.]

[Earlier Article]
Ecco in East Boston Closed For Renovations; Plans to Reopen in Five Weeks

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, August 15, 2017

Dot 2 Dot Cafe in Dorchester Is Closing

A Dorchester dining spot that has been featured on our sister site as a hidden gem is shutting down.

According to a source, Dot 2 Dot Cafe on Dorchester Avenue is closing on Friday, August 18, with a Facebook post from the place confirming this, saying that "I can't really find a way to sugar-coat this message (and that's not really my style, is it?) so I will just be blunt and to the point. I will close the doors to Dot 2 Dot Cafe..and hand over the keys to a new tenant. I am taking this opportunity to slow things down a little and to spend more time with my family." The eatery, which first opened its doors more than nine years ago, is a breakfast and lunch spot that hosts a variety of events including live music, readings, and open mic nights. The Boston's Hidden Restaurants site has featured the place (and awarded it best breakfast spot for 2013), with the review being found at this link:

http://www.hiddenboston.com/Dot2Dot.html

The address for this soon-to-close restaurant in Dorchester is: Dot 2 Dot Cafe, 1739 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02124.

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]





The Smoke Shop BBQ Is Opening at Assembly Row in Somerville

Earlier this month, we reported that a popular BBQ restaurant in Cambridge was getting ready to open at least one new location in the Boston area. Now we have learned where one of them might be.

According to a poster on the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, The Smoke Shop BBQ appears to be on its way to Assembly Row in Somerville, with a page on the Federal Realty Investment Trust website including the dining spot in a list of tenants either currently open or on their way to the development. Earlier information that we had received indicated that a new location of the barbecue spot would be coming to a space in Boston that we are still holding off on naming until it is made official, so it is possible that the Assembly Row outlet will be one of at least three Smoke Shop locations in the Boston area. [Ed note--the location coming to Boston has opened in the former Tavern Road space in Fort Point.]

Chef and restaurateur Andy Husbands first opened The Smoke Shop in Kendall Square in June of 2016, joining Tremont 647 and Sister Sorel in Boston's South End, which he also operates.

The website for The Smoke Shop can be found at http://www.thesmokeshopbbq.com/

[September 18 update: Boston Magazine says that The Smoke Shop will indeed be opening at Assembly Row, with the restaurant planning to open in the spring of 2018.]

[February 14, 2018 update: While there has been some chatter as to whether The Smoke Shop would definitely be opening at Assembly Row, a press release sent today confirms that it will be happening for sure, though no specific date has been given as of yet.]

[June 11, 2018 update: A Facebook post from Mark Christian McMann states that The Smoke Shop plans to open at Assembly Row in the next few weeks and that McMann will be the part of the team there, telling us that he's heading up the kitchen. (McMann has been involved in such places as Moona, The Little Pig & Potato Pickling Company, Shepard, Ashmont Grill, Bergamot, and Bistro du Midi.)]

[June 28, 2018 update: According to two sources, The Smoke Shop appears to be on the verge of opening at Assembly Row, with the place possibly doing at least a soft opening as early as this weekend, though no specific date has been given as of yet.]

[July 1, 2018 update: A message from Andy Husbands tells us that The Smoke Shop opened its new location at Assembly Row today.]

[Earlier Article]
Smoke Shop BBQ in Cambridge's Kendall Square to Open Second Location; More on the Way

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]





Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill to Open in Brockton

A chain of Jamaican restaurants the recently opened its first Boston location is getting ready to open a second outlet in the Greater Boston area.

According to an article in Wicked Local, Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill is opening a new location in Brockton, moving into the space on Belmont Street where Asia One and several other dining spots had been. Once it opens, the new eatery will join another on Blue Hill Avenue in Mattapan along with one other Massachusetts location (in Springfield) and it will likely offer such items as pastries, soups, sandwiches, beef patties, and combo plates that include stewed chicken, braised oxtail, curried goat, and whole fish. If all goes as planned, the new location of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill could open as early as next month, according to the post.

Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill first opened its doors in Mattapan in early April.

The address for this new Jamaican restaurant in Brockton is: Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery and Grill, 708 Belmont Street, Brockton, MA, 02301. The website for the chain can be found at http://www.goldenkrustbakery.com/

[October 30, 2019 update: Plans for Golden Krust to come to Brockton are still in the works, with The Enterprise saying that it could be opening in early 2020.]

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, August 14, 2017

Oak Barrel Tavern in Worcester Expanding to Sudbury

A Worcester gastropub that features bourbon, beer, burgers, and more is on its way to the western suburbs of Boston.

The Sudbury Town Crier is reporting that the Oak Barrel Tavern on Grove Street is opening a second location on Route 20 in Sudbury, with the dining and drinking spot having a rustic theme and catering more to a lunch and dinner crowd than a late-night crowd. It looks like the new place will be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week based on information given in the article.

If all goes as planned, the new Oak Barrel Tavern could debut sometime in the summer of 2018.

The exact address for the new Oak Barrel Tavern in Sudbury is not yet known, but it will be located in the Meadow Walk development, which means it could be at 526 Boston Post Road. (The website for the original Oak Barrel Tavern can be found at http://www.oakbarreltavernworcester.com/)

[July 11, 2018 update: A new article in The Sudbury Town Crier indicates that the Oak Barrel Tavern is now open at Meadow Walk (exact address--528A Boston Post Road) and that it includes a patio out back.]

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]





Bon Me Is Opening Another Location Near Cambridge's Kendall Square

A group of Vietnamese food trucks and brick-and-mortar eateries is expanding once again, with another restaurant on its way to a red-hot section of Cambridge.

According to a license commission agenda page within the city's website, Bon Me is opening a new outlet on Binney Street in East Cambridge near Kendall Square, which jibes with an earlier report from Boston Magazine. The new eatery, which will join a nearby location at One Kendall Square, could have seating for 45 inside and another 48 on an outdoor patio in the warmer months and would be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. The earlier Boston Magazine article indicates that the new restaurant might open this month, but it is not known if this is still the case.

Bon Me operates a number of food trucks and carts in and around Boston, and it also has other brick-and-mortar restaurants at Boston Public Market, Boston's Back Bay, Fort Point, Cambridge's Fresh Pond, and Chestnut Square in Chestnut Hill.

The address for this new location of Bon Me in Cambridge is 60 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142. The website for all locations can be found at http://www.bonmetruck.com/

[October 12 update: Boston Magazine mentions that the new Bon Me on Binney Street has softly opened, with its official opening taking place October 19. The article also says that this is considered their flagship location.]

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]