Boston Restaurant Talk: September 2022

Friday, September 30, 2022

Reunion BBQ Opens in Boston's South End

Earlier this year, it was reported that a new barbecue restaurant was planning to take over the space where one of Boston's best-known dining spots had been. Now we have learned that the place has opened.

A message sent by @HeyRatty indicates that Reunion BBQ is now open in the city's South End neighborhood, moving into the former Masa space on Tremont Street. The website for the dining spot shows such options as wings, biscuits, brisket, pulled pork, macaroni and cheese, ribs, Texas-style hot links, BBQ beans, and more.

Masa shuttered in March of 2020 after being in business for a little over 20 years; the restaurant was known for its tapas as well as its weekend brunch, cocktails, and tequila options.

The address for Reunion BBQ is 439 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02116. Its website can be found at https://www.reunionbbqboston.com/

[Earlier Article]
Reunion BBQ Plans to Open in the Former Masa Space in Boston's South End

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

NOTE: Leslie Hurwitz, who is the father of Marc (the founder of this site) is currently dealing with health issues and needs your help. Please donate if you can at https://gofund.me/76d8ba28, thanks!

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen Is Opening in Salem

It looks like a new restaurant, lounge, and nightclub is on its way to the North Shore.

According to its website, Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen is on its way to Salem, with the address indicating that it may be moving into the Hampton Inn at Washington Street and Dodge Street which first opened approximately two years ago. A job post within the Craigslist site mentions that the upcoming spot will feature "creative cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and a one of the kind nightlife experience featuring Boston's most well known DJs." It is not known when Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen might be opening, though the job post says that it will be up and running "very soon."

The address for Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen is 221 Washington Street, Salem, MA, 01970. Its website can be found at https://www.rivalrysalem.com/

[February 16, 2023 update: According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Rivalry Sports Lounge & Kitchen is in the middle of a soft opening, with its official opening being planned for this weekend.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 28, 2022

b.good in Bedford Has Closed

Another location of a local group of restaurants known in part for their healthy options has shuttered.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, b.good in Bedford is no longer in business, with the dining spot apparently closing its doors late last week. In the post the chain refers customers to its locations in Burlington and Woburn, both of which will bring in worker from the Bedford outlet.

A few locations of b.good have closed over the past couple of years, including outlets in Boston's South End, Hingham, and Wellesley; the Bedford location had been in business since 2013.

The address for the now-closed b.good in Bedford was 168 Great Road, Bedford, MA, 01730. The website for all locations is at https://bgood.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Bar Vlaha Is Opening in Brookline

A new Greek concept from a recently-formed restaurant group is on its way to Brookline.

According to a press release, Bar Vlaha is planning to open on Beacon Street, moving into the space in Washington Square that had once been home to Jimmy's Bar & Oven and before that, B & D Deli. The email mentions that Demetri Tsolakis and Stefanos Ougrinis and their new Xenia Greek Hospitality group (which includes new Culinary Director Brendan Pelley) are behind the upcoming dining and drinking spot, with the restaurant group also including Krasi Meze & Wine, Hecate, and Greco.

The press release states that Bar Vlaha plans to open later this fall, and it will honor "the nomadic dishes and hospitality that originated from Central Greece, specifically the remote areas of Epirus, Metsovo and the Pindus mountains."

The address for Bar Vlaha is 1653 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, 02445. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/BarVlaha/

[March 27, 2023 update: An Instagram post from the place indicates that Bar Vlaha is now open.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 27, 2022

Bertucci's in Woburn Has Closed

It looks like another location of a local chain of Italian restaurants has closed, and this is its second outlet north of Boston to shutter over the past few months.

According to multiple sources, Bertucci's in Woburn is no longer in business, with a check within the locations section of the chain's website confirming this, as the Commerce Way restaurant is no longer listed. Early in the summer, a location of the chain in Andover also closed, while a few others have shut down over the past several years as well, including at Alewife in Cambridge, Kenmore Square in Boston, Faneuil Hall, and Wellesley.

The address for the now-closed location of Bertucci's in Woburn was 17 Commerce Way, Woburn, MA,01801. The website for the chain is at https://www.bertuccis.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Chung's Asian Cuisine in Braintree Has Closed

Earlier this month, it was reported that a restaurant in a Braintree shopping center was closing. Now we have learned that another dining spot within the shopping center has shuttered as well.

According to a source, Chung's Asian Cuisine at Granite Plaza on Granite Street is no longer in business, with a check on the space over the weekend indicating that it has indeed been cleared out. It is not known why the eatery closed, nor is it known what might go into its space; if we hear any additional information, we will post an update here.

In addition to Chung's closing, Granite Grill--which is on the other side of the shopping plaza--has just closed its doors as well.

The address for the now-closed Chung's Asian Cuisine was 731 Granite Street (Granite Plaza), Braintree, MA 02184.

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 26, 2022

Mecha Noodle Bar Opens in Boston's Fort Point

Last fall, it was reported that a Connecticut-based group of Asian restaurants was planning to expand to Boston, and now we have learned that the place is up and running.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Mecha Noodle Bar is now open in the city's Fort Point neighborhood, moving into a space on Thomson Place near where Fort Point and the Seaport District meet. The new location joins another in Brookline's Coolidge Corner that opened a few months ago, and as mentioned in an earlier article, the menu includes noodle dishes with Southeast Asian, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean influences.

The address for Mecha Noodle Bar in Fort Point is 44 Thomson Place, Boston, MA, 02210. The website for all locations is at https://mechanoodlebar.com/

[Earlier Article]
Mecha Noodle Bar Plans to Open in Boston's Fort Point Neighborhood

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Long Live Beerworks in Providence Plans to Open New Brewery and Taproom in Roxbury

A Rhode Island brewery is making plans to expand to Boston.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Long Live Beerworks in Providence is opening a second location in Roxbury, taking over the space on Hampden Street that had been home to Flying Embers, and before that, Backlash Beer Co. The post mentions that Armando DeDona and Jessica deBry first opened the brewery in the West End of Providence in 2016, moving to a larger location in a nearby mill complex in 2019; deBry says that for the Roxbury facility, "Our goal is to mirror what we've achieved in Providence, with great attention to [the taproom] experience and creating quality beer."

The Roxbury location of the California-based Flying Embers was a short-term project for the hard kombucha brewery, which closed the outlet a bit more than a week ago and is currently focusing on distributing its products nationally including in the local area; Backlash Backlash Beer Co. closed its taproom around the end of 2019 after being in business for a little more than a year.

The address for the upcoming location of Long Live Beerworks in Roxbury is 152 Hampden Street, Roxbury, MA, 02119. The website for the company can be found at https://www.longlivebeerworks.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Menya Jiro Opens in Dedham

Last spring, it was reported that an award-winning group of ramen spots would be opening its second outlet in the Greater Boston area. Now we have learned that the place is up and running.

According to a press release, Menya Jiro is now open in Dedham, moving into a space at Legacy Place across the parking lot from Gap and next to Urban Outfitters. The new location of the Japan-based group of restaurants joins another in Cambridge's Harvard Square, and in addition to ramen and other options, the new outlet also features yakitori-style skewered meats, seafood, and veggies that are grilled over hot coals.

Menya Jiro, which also has locations in New York City and is looking at opening another outlet in Boston's Seaport District, has been mentioned by Thrillist as being one of "The Best Ramen Restaurants in America."

The address for Menya Jiro in Dedham is 756 Legacy Place, Dedham, MA, 02026. The website for the Boston-area locations of Menya Jiro can be found at https://menyajiro-boston.com/

[Earlier Article]
Menya Jiro to Open at Legacy Place in Dedham

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

An Sibin Opens in Cambridge's Inman Square

A new restaurant and pub that focuses at least in part on whiskey has come to Cambridge.

According to a source, An Sibin is now open in the city's Inman Square neighborhood, moving into the space that had been home to Richards, and before that, Tex Mex Eats and Tupelo. An earlier post here had mentioned (via Cambridge Day) that the place was looking to have the feel of a speakeasy with "a little bit more Americana, and have less of the Irishness," while its Instagram page indicates that its goal is to have "one of the largest whiskey [lists] in Cambridge" and being "your second living room."

The address for An Sibin is 1193 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/an_sibincambridge/

[Earlier Article]
An Sibin to Open in Former Richards Space in Cambridge's Inman Square

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 23, 2022

Bom Dough Opens in Former Highland Fried/East Coast Grill Space in Cambridge's Inman Square

A new dining spot with global influences has come to a space in Cambridge that has been home to a couple of restaurants over the years.

According to a source, Bom Dough is now open in Inman Square, moving into the space on Cambridge Street where Highland Fried had been until last summer, and before that, East Coast Grill. The website for the new eatery says that it is a "fast-casual restaurant specializing in high-quality cuisine experiences inspired by a melting pot of Brazilian, European, African, and Asian influences" while an earlier Cambridge Day article mentioned that the food would "add a 'smoky touch' to its 'commonly known traditional meals with a twist [of] seasonings inspired from Brazilian, Italian, French and Japanese cuisine.'"

A few items on the menu at Bom Dough include black bean soup, cheese bread, acai bowls, short rib pot pie, yakisoba, grilled veggies and rice, and a ham and cheese bun.

The address for Bom Dough in Inman Square is 1271 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website can be found at https://www.bomdough.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Shabu & Mein in Cambridge Is Closing

A Cambridge restaurant that is known in part for its ramen and hotpot is shutting down.

According to a Twitter post from the place, Shabu & Mein on First Street is closing on September 30, with the tweet saying that "our building is undergoing a complete renovation and we are the only tenant left. In order to facilitate this renovation we have decided to close." The note refers customers to its "sister restaurants" which includes a handful of Fuji restaurants throughout the Greater Boston area.

Shabu & Mein first opened its doors in 2014.

The address for Shabu & Mein is 148 First Street, Cambridge, MA, 02141. Its website can be found at https://www.shabumein.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 22, 2022

Tori Japan Opens in East Boston

A small group of Japanese restaurants has been joined by a third location in Boston.

According to a Google search, Tori Japan is now open in East Boston, moving into a space on Border Street in the Central Square section of the neighborhood. The new outlet joins others in the Back Bay and Jamaica Plain along with a fourth in Bridgewater Township, NJ (which is called Tori Sushi), and based on the other locations expect to see sushi, bento boxes, teriyaki, spring rolls, tempura, and more at the new spot.

The address for Tori Japan in East Boston is 173 Border Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. The website for all locations is at https://www.torijapan.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Anna's Taqueria Is Opening in Boston's Longwood Area

A local group of Mexican eateries is planning to open a new location in Boston.

According to a press release, Anna's Taqueria is looking to open in the Longwood medical area of the city, moving into the space on Longwood Avenue that had been home to a location of b.good. This will be the seventh Boston-area location of Anna's and it will offer such items as burritos, tacos, quesadillas, Mexican bowls, and salads.

If all goes as planned, the new location of Anna's Taqueria should be opening later this year.

The address for the new Anna's Taqueria in the Longwood area is 360 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for all locations of Anna's is at https://www.annastaqueria.com/

[January 16, 2023 update: According to Anna's website, the new location in Longwood is now open.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 20, 2022

Topside Grill in Gloucester Has Closed

A restaurant on Cape Ann whose roots date back nearly 35 years has shut down.

According to a source, Topside Grill in Gloucester has closed its doors, with a post on the Facebook page for the Rogers Street spot from earlier this month saying the following:

As many others have experienced within the industry, it has been a challenging uphill between the impacts of COVID, increasing product costs and labor shortages. Throughout the years we have had some of the most wonderful customers that we will always remember. THANK YOU, you truly made all the hard work worth it! We would also like to give gratitude to our remarkable staff. We acknowledge your commitment, camaraderie and positivity which has kept us focused and moving forward throughout the years. We are truly looking ahead to our next family chapter.

Topside Grill was formerly home to Schooner's of Gloucester Restaurant which first opened in 1988 and was run by the same family; Schooner's morphed into Topside in 2007 and offered seafood dishes along with Italian and classic American fare.

The address for Topside Grill was 50 Rogers Street, Gloucester, MA, 01930.

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Makalu Nepali & Indian Cuisine Opens in Arlington

A brand new restaurant featuring South Asian food has come to the northwest suburbs of Boston, opening where a Persian dining spot had been.

According to a source, Makalu Nepali & Indian Cuisine is now open in Arlington, taking over the former Sabzi space on Mass. Ave. The menu for the new eatery shows such options as chaat, pakora, briyani, kebabs, tandoori chicken, tikka masala, korma, vindaloo, and more.

Sabzi closed this past winter after being in business for a bit more than 10 years.

The address for Makalu Nepali & Indian Cuisine is 352 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02474. Its website can be found at https://www.ordermakalucuisine.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 19, 2022

Birch Street Bistro in Roslindale Is Closing; Midnight Morning Plans to Move In

[Ed note: This article was updated on September 25 to reflect the fact that a new dining spot may be going into the space.]

A casual upscale restaurant that has been in business for nearly 20 years is shutting down.

According to a tweet from @universalhub, Birch Street Bistro in Roslindale is closing its doors, with a Facebook post from the dining spot saying that "We are beyond grateful for the love and support from our Roslindale friends and neighbors, and we are honored to have been a part of such a vibrant, diverse community! We hope that our legacy will reverberate for years to come!" The restaurant will be closing after business hours on Saturday, September 24, with the note saying that gift certificates can be redeemed until its last day.

Birch Street Bistro first opened in 2003, offering elevated comfort food and cocktails while also featuring live music.

The address for Birch Street Bistro is 14 Birch Street, Boston, MA, 02131. Its website can be found at http://www.birchstreetbistro.com/

[September 30 update: According to a press release, Midnight Morning is looking to move into the Birch Street Bistro space, with Corbett Restaurant Group representing both the buyer and seller on the sale of the space. We have been told that the upcoming eatery would be a restaurant, bar, and cafe that plans to offer dishes using locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients, and that there will apparently be options that had been on the Birch Street Bistro menu along with some additional small plates.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Conley's Pub & Grille in Watertown Has Been Sold, Is Reopening Under New Ownership

A neighborhood restaurant and bar west of Boston has closed for the time being as it is undergoing an ownership change.

According to multiple sources, Conley's Pub & Grille in Watertown has shuttered, with a Facebook post from the Belmont Street spot saying, "[Farewell] to Conleys!! It's been a great run!! 21 years of Solid Eats, Decent Times and Cold Brews! Thank you Stephen!! Thank you to all our loyal employees and customers!! We love you all!! - Jen and Erica" We have been told that owner Stephen Conley has sold it to JKT Watertown Partners LLC and that renovations will be taking place this week with the possibility of it reopening the following week with the same name, concept, and staff.

Conley's has been known in part for its steak tips, wings, and pizza over the years along with its variety of beers on tap.

The address for Conley's Pub & Grille is 164 Belmont Street, Watertown, MA, 02472. Its website can be found at https://conleyspub.com/

[September 29 update: A Facebook post indicates that Conley's reopens today at 4:00 PM, and we have been told that restaurant veterans Jim O'Rourke (who used to work at Conley's), Kevin Treanor, and Tim Warner are the new owners.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 16, 2022

Estella Opens in Boston's Downtown Crossing

A brand new upscale restaurant and lounge has come to the heart of Boston after being in the works for nearly a year, replacing another upscale dining and drinking spot that had been in the space.

According to a tweet from @DTownBostonBID, Estella is now open in Downtown Crossing, taking over the space on Temple Place that had been home to 49 Social. The Twitter page for the new place indicates that it is a fine dining spot for food and cocktails, with its menu including such options as omelets, chicken and waffles, tortilla soup, burgers, blackened fish tacos, pulled pork sliders, fried calamari, filet mignon, grilled lamb chops, braised short ribs, pizza, cheesecake, and tiramisu, along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

49 Social first opened in 2011, replacing Ivy Restaurant.

The address for Estella is 49 Temple Place, Boston, MA, 02111. Its website can be found at https://www.estellaboston.com/

[Earlier Article]
Estella Plans to Open in 49 Social Space in Boston's Downtown Crossing

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Hot Chix Boston Opens in Cambridge's Inman Square

Last year, it was reported that the team behind a pop-up spot featuring fried chicken sandwiches would be opening a brick-and-mortar restaurant in Cambridge. Now we have learned that the place has debuted.

Based on a tweet from @TroySch1, Hot Chix Boston is now open in Inman Square, moving into the space on Cambridge Street that had been home to Guangzhou. The website for the eatery mentions that it is apparently going through a soft opening, with its menu including Nashville hot chicken sandwiches along with seared fish, fried shrimp, and fried mushroom sandwiches, and a few other offerings include chicken tenders, waffle fries, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and banana pudding as well as a few beers.

The address for Hot Chix Boston is 1220 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website is at https://www.hotchixboston.com

[Earlier Article]
Hot Chix Boston Plans to Open in Former Guangzhou Space in Cambridge's Inman Square

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 15, 2022

B.K.'s Pub in Roslindale Appears to Be Closing

It looks like another old-school neighborhood bar in Boston is shutting down.

Based on a tweet from @kathyschwartz (who is the daughter of the late owner), B.K.'s Pub in Roslindale is apparently closing its doors, with the tweet saying that "I'm sad to know BK's will be no longer but a good friend of my dad told me there isn't BK's without Bob Keith." An earlier licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website shows that the liquor license for the Washington Street bar is slated to be transferred to Borrachito and The Garret Boston, a combination taqueria/cocktail bar that plans to open in the Seaport District.

The address for B.K.'s Pub is 4272 Washington Street, Roslindale, MA, 02131.

[Earlier Article]
Borrachito and The Garret Bar to Open at The Superette in Boston's Seaport District

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Granite Grill in Braintree Is Closing

It looks like a South Shore restaurant known in part for its Italian dishes is closing its doors.

According to a source, Granite Grill in Braintree is shutting down, with a Facebook event page saying that "The Granite Grill will be closing its doors on Sept 25th 2022" while mentioning a farewell event for its manager later this week, though the event has apparently been canceled. No further information on its closure has been given as of yet, but if we hear anything else about the restaurant, we will post an update here.

In addition to Italian options such as chicken parmigiana, pasta primavera, and bolognese, Granite Grill also offers such items as steak tips, burgers, fish and chips, pork chops, and baked stuffed chicken.

The address for Granite Grill is 703 Granite Street (Granite Plaza), Braintree, MA, 02184. The website for the restaurant is at https://www.granitegrillfx.com/

[September 29 update: A check on the place indicates that Granite Grill remains open for now, with social media posts indicating that it closes down tomorrow (Friday, September 30).]

[October 3 update Another check on the restaurant confirms that Granite Grill is now permanently closed, based on a note out front.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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 Lobster Barn in Abington Is Closing

A seafood shack and fish market in the southern suburbs of Boston is shutting down after more than 30 years in business.

According to a source, the Lobster Barn in Abington is closing its doors, with a note on the website of the Hancock Street spot saying that "It's with a heavy heart the Lobster Barn will be closing September 18th. We would like to thank our loyal customers for supporting us over the years. Thank you!" No reason has been given for its closure, nor is it known what might become of the space; as soon as we find out more, we will post an update.

The Lobster Barn, which first opened back in 1991, is known for its classic New England seafood dishes along with retail seafood offerings to cook at home.

The address for the Lobster Barn is 996 Hancock Street, Abington, MA, 02351. Its website can be found at https://www.lobsterbarn.net/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 14, 2022

The Green Tomato in Reading Is Closing Until Further Notice

A dining spot in the northern suburbs that is known for its to-go Italian and American dishes is shutting down for the foreseeable future.

According to a message sent by local hospitality writer Cheryl Fenton, The Green Tomato in Reading is closing until further notice on Friday, with a Patch article citing "current economic issues" as the reason for the closure of the High Street eatery. In the article, owner John Ryan says that "Right now, we could close for the whole winter and then next year, things could finally turn around....Do I think so? No. But you never know."

The Green Tomato first opened in 2003, offering such items as chicken marsala, eggplant parmigiana, shrimp scampi, meatball subs, chicken pot pie, and American chop suey.

The address for The Green Tomato is 42 High Street, Reading, MA, 01867. Its website can be found at https://www.thegreentomatokitchen.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Midwest Grill Fusion to Open in Former Midwest Grill Brazilian BBQ Space in Cambridge's Inman Square

A popular all-you-can-eat restaurant in Cambridge appears to be returning in a somewhat different form (and with a slightly different name).

According to a tweet from @TroySch1, Midwest Grill Fusion is planning to open in the old Midwest Grill Brazilian BBQ space in Inman Square, with a sign out front at the Cambridge Street storefront saying "opening soon with fusion menu" which will include grilled meat, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, burritos, tacos, and more. The website for the restaurant includes the following note:

We apologize, if we make you confuse by changing the business name to Midwest Grill Fusion. We decided to change the business name because we have been serving mostly grill meats since 1993 and we want to add totally different types of food in our menu. Please, bring your family and enjoy our Fusion menu.

Last year, the Midwest Grill space briefly became home to a Korean BBQ spot that offered such items as kimchi dumplings, bulgogi, bi bim bap, chicken katsu, and curry rice., while the original Midwest Grill was a Brazilian rodizio that featured a salad bar and buffet along with a variety of meats cut tableside.

The address for Midwest Grill Fusion is 1124 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website is at https://midwestgrillrestaurant.com/

[Earlier Article]
Midwest Grill in Cambridge Is Now a Korean BBQ Spot

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 13, 2022

Brooklyn Bagel Factory Opens in the Inman Square Section of Cambridge

Last fall, it was reported that a new shop featuring New York bagels was planning to come to Cambridge. Now we have learned that it has debuted.

According to a source, Brooklyn Bagel Factory is now open in Inman Square, with the bagels apparently being shipped daily from a bagel place in Brooklyn. The menu for the new shop shows such options as bagels and spreads, bagel sandwiches, croissants, oatmeal bowls, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.

The address for the Brooklyn Bagel Factory is 168 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website is at https://brooklynbagelfactory.com/

[Earlier Article]
Brooklyn Bagel Factory Plans to Open in Cambridge's Inman Square

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Boardwalk Pizza Is Opening in South Boston

A waterside pizzeria just south of Boston is being joined by a second location within the city itself.

According to a message sent by @maureencaught, Boardwalk Pizza is opening in South Boston, moving into the AK's Takeout space on D Street. A check on the website for the South Boston location redirects its ordering links to its original location in the Marina Bay section of Quincy, so it appears that the new outlet is not yet up and running; as soon as we find out when it might open, we will post an update here.

Boardwalk Pizza first opened at Marina Bay in the summer of 2020, offering thin-crust pies as well as salads and sandwiches. The eatery has an ownership connection to Victory Point and Donato's Gelato in Marina Bay along with Il Molo in Boston's North End.

The address for Boardwalk Pizza in South Boston is 309 D Street, Boston, MA, 02127. Its website can be found at https://www.boardwalksouthie.com/

[January 18, 2023 update: According to a press release, Boardwalk Pizza is now open in South Boston.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Fire Hits Wang's Chinese Cuisine Space in Somerville's Magoun Square

A three-alarm fire ripped through a restaurant space in Somerville yesterday.

According to a source (and confirmed by The Somerville Times), a blaze broke out on Broadway in Magoun Square Monday evening, causing damage to the space that has been home to Wang's Chinese Cuisine. As of this morning, the cause of the fire is unknown while the space was vacant at the time with no injuries reported.

Multiple sources have told us over the past several weeks that Wang's had closed permanently, though we were unable to get confirmation on this. The restaurant has been known in part for its housemade dumplings.

The address of the Wang's space is 509 Broadway, Somerville, MA, 02145.

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 09, 2022

Tasty Burger in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood Is Moving to a New Location

The original location of a local group of burger spots is moving, but it won't be moving very far.

According to a message sent by Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting, Tasty Burger in the Fenway section of Boston is planning to move, with a Boston Business Journal article saying that the dining spot will leave its space at 1301 Boylston Street before the end of the year and immediately reopen around the corner at 86 Van Ness Street in the mixed-use development that is home to Eventide and Blackbird Doughnuts. The original Tasty Burger first opened in a former gas station space back in 2010 and now has locations in Downtown Crossing, the Back Bay, the North Station area, and Cambridge's Harvard Square, and an outlet in the Central Square section of Cambridge could be coming as well.

The website for Tasty Burger is at https://www.tastyburger.com/

[June 9, 2023 update: According to its social media, Tasty Burger is now open in its new location on Van Ness Street.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 08, 2022

Yellow Door Taqueria Adds Container Bar to Its Ink Block Location in Boston's South End

One of a pair of Mexican restaurants in Boston has added a new feature to its outdoor area.

According to a press release, Yellow Door Taqueria in the South End's Ink Block neighborhood now has a container bar at its outdoor patio, with the bar offering beer, wine, margaritas, specialty cocktails, tequila and mezcal shots, and more--and that the drinks are also available to go. Hours for the container bar are 4:00 PM to close Thursday through Sunday.

The Ink Block location of Yellow Door Taqueria first opened in February of 2020, joining the original in Dorchester's Lower Mills.

The address for Yellow Door Taqueria is 300 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118. The website for both locations is at https://www.yellowdoortaqueria.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 07, 2022

KoKo Coffee Opens in Downtown Boston

The people behind a mobile coffee bar--and a soon-to-open cafe in South Boston--have opened a coffee shop by the Boston waterfront.

According to a message sent from Adam Castiglioni of the Boston Hospitality and Tourism Industry Blog, KoKo Coffee is now open on State Street, moving into a space by the Rose Kennedy Greenway and Long Wharf. Based on the menu for the business, it looks like the new shop offers espresso, iced coffee, tea, hot chocolate, lemonade, and more.

An Instagram comment also indicates that KoKo Cafe, which will reside at 87 L Street in Southie, could be opening sometime this month as well.

The address for KoKo Coffee is 255 State Street, Boston, MA, 02109. The website for KoKo can be found at http://kokocafeboston.com/

[Earlier Article]
KoKo Cafe to Open in Former Cafe Mamtaz Space in South Boston

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Aceituna Grill Is Opening in Boston's Back Bay

A trio of restaurants featuring Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine will be joined by a fourth, and this one will be coming to Boston's Back Bay neighborhood.

According to a licensing commission hearing page within the city's website, Aceituna Grill is looking to open on Newbury Street, with the notice saying that the new location will include a seasonal patio while it is also hoping to acquire a liquor license. If approved, the new outlet of Aceituna Grill will join others in downtown Boston, the Seaport District, and the original in Cambridge's Kendall Square, and it will likely offer such options as Greek salad, fattoush, baba ganoush, hummus, falafel, shawarma, moussaka, and baklava.

The address for the new Aceituna Grill in the Back Bay is 267-269 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for all locations can be found at http://aceitunagrill.com/

[April 14, 2023 update: According to a press release, Aceituna Grill is now open on Newbury Street, and it will offer beer, wine, and cocktails along with Mediterranean fare.]

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 06, 2022

Hotel Proposed for Middle East Space in Cambridge's Central Square

The exact future of one of the region's best-known music complexes continues to be unknown, especially based on a new proposal now on the table that mentions the potential tearing down of the building.

According to an article from Cambridge Day (via a Cambridge Historical Commission Meeting notice), The Sater family--who own The Middle East along with the property itself--have put out a plan that would demolish the Mass. Ave. structure and replace it with a six-story hotel that would have two stages for live entertainment. A blueprint posted shows that the basement has a section labeled "Middle East Music Venue" while the first floor has a section simply labeled "Music Venue," and the first floor also shows three spaces for retail while the 6th floor has a restaurant/bar space. Cambridge Day mentions that there is a request to postpone the September 8 meeting which could mean that the proposal might not be heard until next month at the earliest, as the next commission meeting is slated to take place on October 6.

Nabil and Joseph Sater, who purchased The Middle East in 2014, put the site up for sale in early 2020, though the listing was ultimately taken down and no sale took place.

The address for The Middle East is 472-480 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website is at https://www.mideastoffers.com/

[September 19 update: A Facebook post from the place indicates that The Middle East apparently won't be going anywhere, with the note saying that "Over the coming months, we and our team will present a plan to improve the Middle East, in cooperation with CSQ Realty, to include a two stage music venue, a modernized restaurant and event space, and a lounge, as well as a hotel and retail space....The Middle East plans to remain open until such time as the planned renovations are to take place, which we currently expect to occur no earlier than 2024. While there may be a short interruption during the redevelopment of the space, rest assured that the Middle East will remain the venue that our customers, performers, friends, and neighbors have come to love for years and decades to come."]

[Earlier Article]
The Middle East Restaurant and Nightclub in Cambridge's Central Square Has Been Put Up for Sale

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Source at Time Out Market Boston in the Fenway Has Closed

An outlet of a Cambridge restaurant known in part for its pizza has closed down after only a short time in business.

According to a note sent by Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting, Source at Time Out Market Boston is shuttered, with the website for the food hall confirming this, as the eatery is no longer listed. Source first opened at Time Out Market Boston in late March, joining the original location of Source on Church Street in Cambridge's Harvard Square which debuted in the fall of 2020 in the former Cambridge 1 space.

The website for Source can be found at https://sourcerestaurants.com/ while the website for Time Out Market Boston--which is located on Park Drive--is at https://www.timeoutmarket.com/boston/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 02, 2022

Dora Taqueria Opens in Woburn

A Mexican restaurant in a Boston neighborhood has expanded to a space north of the city.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Dora Taqueria is now open in Woburn, moving into a space on Main Street in the downtown area. The new dining spot joins the original location in Dorchester which opened in early 2020, with the Stoughton Street eatery debuting shortly before the pandemic took hold.

The menu for the new location of Dora Taqueria includes such items as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, flautas, tamales, street corn, and more.

The address for Dora Taqueria in Woburn is 446 Main Street, Woburn, MA, 01801. The website for both locations is at https://dorataqueria.online/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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, September 01, 2022

Gong Cha to Open in Cambridge's Harvard Square

A Taiwan-based chain that claims to be "one of the most recognized bubble tea brands around the world" is expanding again, this time opening another shop in Cambridge.

According to an article from boston.com, Gong Cha is opening in Harvard Square, moving into a space on Church Street. The post says that the upcoming place will offer the same options as the other locations, including bubble tea, slush, and other tea beverages, and it will join another store at CambridgeSide along with other locations locally in Boston, Burlington, Lowell, Malden, Natick, Peabody, and Quincy.

The new shop plans to open on September 9, according to the article.

The address for Gong Cha in Harvard Square is 50 Church Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for the chain is at https://www.gongchausa.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]

Carroll's in Medford Square Has Closed

A Medford restaurant whose roots go back a long ways has shut down.

According to a tweet from @TheBostonFoodie, Carroll's in Medford Square is no longer in business, with a sign up at the Main Street spot indicating that it closed on Saturday, August 27. Carroll's had been in business for 10 years in its current incarnation, though it had previously been open for six decades as Carroll's Diner in a different Main Street location across the Mystic River until shutting down in 1986.

The most recent space in which Carroll's had resided had once been home to Il Faro.

The address for the now-closed Carroll's was 101 Main Street, Medford, MA, 02155.

by Marc Hurwitz (Also 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]