Boston Restaurant Talk: December 2022

Friday, December 30, 2022

The Modern Butcher Is Moving from Newburyport to Danvers

A butcher shop north of Boston that is known in part for its roast beef sandwiches is moving to a new location a lot closer to the city.

According to a source (Gary Goldblatt), The Modern Butcher is getting ready to move from its current home in Newburyport to a larger space in Danvers, with an article from boston.com saying that the new location will have a retail section, butcher area, and a three-seat charcuterie counter in addition to approximately 10 stools for dining in. If all goes as planned, the shop will open in its new home in early March of 2023, and if approved for a liquor license, it could also serve beer and wine in addition to food.

The Modern Butcher, which first opened in Newburyport in early 2019, offers a classic North Shore roast beef sandwich on Saturdays along with other sandwich specials each day.

The current address for The Modern Butcher is 226 Merrimac Street in Newburyport, while its new location will be at 36 Maple Street in Danvers. Its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/themodernbutchershop

[March 14, 2023 update: A Facebook post from the place indicates that The Modern Butcher plans to shut down their Newburyport store on March 18, with the Danvers shop opening as soon as possible.]

[May 19, 2023 update: According to a source (Aron Levy), The Modern Butcher is now open in its new space in Danvers.]

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!

KKatie's Express to Expand to Plymouth, West Bridgewater

A group of burger bars that recently debuted a new quick-service concept is getting ready to expand that concept to two new locations.

According to its social media, KKatie's Express is planning to open outlets in Plymouth and West Bridgewater, joining one that opened in Plympton this spring. The concept is an offshoot of KKatie's Burger Bar, a group of full-service restaurants with locations in Marshfield, Plymouth, and Hyannis, and a Facebook post explains the new concept, saying that "If a KKatie's Burger Bar Burger and a Smash Burger has a Burger Baby...That's what KKatie's Express Burgers are - thinner double patties cooked faster with all the flavor you expect."

The website for KKatie's Express can be found at https://www.kkatiesexpress.com/

[February 3, 2023 update: According to its website, the West Bridgewater location of KKatie's Express 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]

Strega Italiano in Woburn Has Closed

A location of a group of Italian restaurants has shut down.

According to a source, Strega Italiano in Woburn has closed for good, with Boston 25 News reporting on the closure this morning and a note on the website of the restaurant saying the following:

We've made the difficult decision to close our doors permanently prior to the New Year, giving our valued team members this time to enjoy the holiday season. We are grateful for their service, and we are working to place each employee in new roles throughout the PPX Hospitality Brands company, with the many opportunities in this great market. Our sincerest appreciation and gratitude go out to you our guests for the support and loyalty you have shown over the years, especially our regulars who have become like family. We welcome all to enjoy the Strega Italiano experience in our Boston locations, Seaport and Back Bay where we continue to invest in the brand and our authentic Italian dining experience! We hope you’ll stay tuned for new features and developments at these fine restaurants!

The Woburn location of Strega first opened as Strega Prime in 2013, with The Varano Group being behind all the Strega outlets until selling the Woburn, Seaport District, and Back Bay locations to Danu Partners (of which PPX Hospitality Brands is a part) in 2020; The Varano Group continues to run the original Strega in Boston's North End along with Nico and Rina's, both of which are in the North End as well.

The address for the now-closed location of Strega Italiano in Woburn was 100 Sylvan Road, Woburn, MA, 01801.

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]

Jason Santos Plans to Open Butterbird at Arsenal Yards in Watertown

A well-known local chef and restaurateur is going to be opening another dining spot, and this one will be in the same development as one of his other restaurants.

An article from Boston 25 News confirms what we heard last month, that Jason Santos is planning to open Butterbird at Arsenal Yards in East Watertown, which also jibes with an earlier Facebook post from Santos. The article mentions that the upcoming spot will be a fast-casual place that is slated to open sometime in the spring; no other details have been given as of yet, including what might be on the menu.

Santos operates four other restaurants in the Greater Boston area, including locations of Buttermilk & Bourbon locations at Arsenal Yards and in Boston's Back Bay, Citrus & Salt in the Back Bay, and Nash Bar & Stage the Theater District. His website can be found at https://www.chefjasonsantos.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]

A Great Big "Thank You" to Tres Gatos in Jamaica Plain

As many of you know, this has been an exceedingly difficult year for my family, as my father (Leslie Hurwitz) has been in a respite room at an assisted living facility since the fall of 2021 with health struggles, and to add insult to injury, he lost his hearing several months ago which is particularly cruel for someone who has been a concert pianist, musicologist, educator, and composer. Seeing him struggle has been too much to bear at times, and we have also had to deal with substantial bills because of his need to be in the respite room and his requirement for daily help, so a fundraiser was set up to help with the costs.

The response to the fundraiser has been incredible, with nearly 500 people helping out since April when it first went up, and a number of restaurant owners, managers, and workers have gone out of their way to help out via donations. One restaurant in Jamaica Plain recently went above and beyond with their own fundraiser specifically for Leslie, which is something that my family will never forget. A big tip of the hat to David, Phil, and the Tres Gatos team for having such big hearts in a time of crisis for us, and thank you to everyone who has helped out. - Marc H

To read about the struggles that Leslie has faced, and/or to donate, please go to the link below:

Help for Leslie Hurwitz's Ongoing Health Issue

Thursday, December 29, 2022

Thai Moon Is Opening in the Former Twyrl Space in Arlington Center

A suburban Thai restaurant that suffered severe damage in a fire is returning in a nearby space that had been home to an Italian spot.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Thai Moon is planning to open back up in Arlington Center, moving to the former Twyrl space at Broadway Plaza. The restaurant, which had been located a few blocks west on Mass. Ave., was hit by a two-alarm blaze in April of 2021 and has been closed ever since.

Twyrl shut down last November after being in business for approximately five years.

The address for the new location of Thai Moon is 315 Broadway, Arlington, MA, 02474. Its website is at https://www.thaimoonarlington.com/

[July 20, 2023 update: According to its website and social media, Thai Moon has soft-opened in its new location.]

[Earlier Articles]
Two-Alarm Fire Hits Thai Moon in Arlington
Twyrl in Arlington Center Is Closing

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]

Dumpling Daughter Is Opening in South Boston

A trio of Chinese restaurants known in part for their dumplings is expanding to a fourth location, and this will be its first within the Boston city limits.

A message from the business confirms what a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page had mentioned earlier, that Dumpling Daughter is opening a new outlet in South Boston, moving into a space on W Broadway. We are still trying to confirm the exact address for the new spot, so keep checking back for updates.

Nadia Liu Spellman, who is behind the locations of Dumpling Daughter in Weston, Cambridge's Kendall Square [ed note--now closed], and Brookline's Coolidge Corner, is the daughter of Sally Ling, who is known for her namesake restaurant that opened on the Boston waterfront in the mid-1980s.

The website for Dumpling Daughter is at https://www.dumplingdaughter.com/

[January 6, 2023 update: A message sent by @maureencaught indicates that Dumpling Daughter will open in the former Lee Chen's space at 475 W Broadway.]

[July 5, 2023 update: According to its social media, Dumpling Daughter in South Boston 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]

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

The Eaves Is Opening at Bow Market in Somerville

A new restaurant is on its way to a dining and shopping development in Somerville.

According to a tweet from @TroySch1, The Eaves is planning to open at Bow Market in Union Square, with an Instagram post indicating that the people behind Cicada Coffee Bar in Cambridge's Central Square are involved. Very little information about the upcoming eatery has been given as of yet, though it appears that the place will focus at least in part on Vietnamese fare.

Cicada Coffee Bar first opened on Prospect Street in February of 2021, offering Vietnamese dishes along with coffee, pastries, and more.

The Instagram page for The Eaves can be found at https://www.instagram.com/midnight_eaves/

[June 11, 2023 update: A new Instagram post from the place indicates that The Eaves is now open, and it is indeed offering dishes with Vietnamese influences, though a menu has not been seen as of yet.]

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]

Casa Giacomo's Soft-Opens in the Former Giacomo's Space in Boston's South End

Earlier this year, it was reported that a popular Italian restaurant in Boston's South End had been sold and that it would go through a slight name change when reborn. Now we have learned that it is in the process of opening.

According to a post from BosGuy, Casa Giacomo's plans to soft-open tonight on Columbus Avenue initially only for walk-ins for dinner. As mentioned earlier, the team behind Kava Neo-Taverna and Ilona (also in the South End) are running the place, which had originally been home to a location of Giacomo's; the other three locations of that restaurant in Boston's North End, Melrose, and Wayland remain open and under original management.

The address for Casa Giacomo's is 431 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA, 02116. Its website can be found at https://www.casagiacomos.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/casagiacomos/

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, December 27, 2022

Sixth Gear in South Boston Has Closed

A South Boston restaurant known for its small plates and comfort food is shuttered, and it isn't yet known might become of the space.

According to a tweet from @chipsy231, Sixth Gear on L Street closed last Sunday, and we have been told that equipment, alcohol, and other items have now been removed from the space. Neither the website nor the social media pages for the restaurant give any indication as to its status, though a Google search shows it being labeled as "permanently closed."

The address for Sixth Gear is 81 L Street, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its website is at https://www.sixthgearboston.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]

Zestfriendz in Swampscott Has Closed

A North Shore bakery and cocktail bar has shut down after being in business for a bit more than a year.

According to a source, Zestfriendz in Swampscott is no longer in operation, with a Facebook post from the Humphrey Street spot saying that "Sadly we have decided not to re-open after the holidays and will be permanently closing as of Friday December 23rd." Zestfriendz first opened in November of 2021, being a bakery by day and a small plates bar by night, with the place offering such items as muffins, scones, and oatmeal in the morning, soups, salads, sandwiches, and quiche at lunchtime, and chicken satay, polenta fries, sliders, and flatbreads in the evening.

The address for the now-closed Zestfriendz was 286 Humphrey Street, Swampscott, MA, 01907.

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, December 23, 2022

Popeyes Opens in Woburn

A new location of a chain of chicken spots has come to the local area after being in the works for about a year and a half.

According to a source (Aron Levy), Popeyes is now open in Woburn, moving into the former D'Angelo space on Mishawum Road. The new location of the Florida-based chain join others in the Greater Boston area by Northeastern University, Roslindale, Roxbury, West Roxbury, Brockton, Chelmsford, Everett, Lawrence, Lynn, Randolph, and Quincy.

Popeyes is known for its fast food items with Louisiana influences, including fried chicken, biscuits, red beans and rice, green beans, popcorn shrimp, and fried pickles.

The address for the new location of Popeyes in Woburn is 305 Mishawum Road, Woburn, MA, 01801. The website for the chain is at https://www.popeyes.com/

[Earlier Articles]
Popeyes Plans to Open New Outlet in Woburn

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]

Craft Beer Cellar in Newtonville Is Closing

A group of specialty beer stores will be shutting down one of its locations.

According to a tweet from @BostonHanSolo, Craft Beer Cellar in Newtonville is closing its doors, with a note out front at the Austin Street shop indicating that it will shutter on December 31. This location of the beer store had originally been on Centre Street in Newton Centre before moving to its current Newtonville space.

Other locations of Craft Beer Cellar in Eastern Massachusetts can be found in Belmont, Plymouth, and Westford, with 10 others being scattered around the country.

The address for Craft Beer Cellar in Newtonville is 14 Austin Street, Newtonville, MA, 02460. The website for all locations is at https://www.craftbeercellar.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]

Update: Cathedral Station in Boston's South End Is Not Closing After All, As the Proposed Dispensary May Open Next Door

Earlier today, it was reported that a neighborhood sports bar that is popular with the local LGBT community might be shutting down but now it appears that this is not the case after all.

A post by Michael Ratty within the South End Community Board Facebook group page indicated that he found out Cathedral Station on Washington Street may be replaced by a dispensary, with Leslie Seaton (who is the President of the East Berkeley Neighborhood Association) saying in the thread that the dining and drinking spot was indeed planning to close, and she posted a Zoom link to a January 3 EBNA meeting on the dispensary proposal. (Ratty also tweeted about the closure as well.) There has since been conflicting information on social media about this, including the possibility that there was confusion as to the address and that the dispensary may be going in next door instead. As soon as we get more clarification on this, we will post another update.

Cathedral Station first opened in 2014, taking over the space that had been home to the Red Fez, a Middle Eastern restaurant that had been open since 1940 (it reopened in 2002 after being closed for a number of years).

The address for Cathedral Station is 1222 Washington Street, Boston, MA, 02118. Its website can be found at http://www.cathedralstation.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]

Cacao in Jamaica Plain Is Closing; Newton Highlands Location to Remain Open

A pair of chocolate, nuts, and dried fruit shops that are known in part for their hot chocolate will soon be down to just one, as the original location is closing down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Cacao in Jamaica Plain is shutting its doors, with a Facebook post from the Centre Street shop saying the following:

We have made the very difficult decision to close our JP location at the end of this year. In the 80s, when our families immigrated from the Dominican Republic to Boston they settled in JP. We grew up in JP and went to JP schools so opening a business in JP was a dream come true. JP supported us from day one, made our frozen hot cocoa a summer treat to have and our hot chocolate was named one of Boston's best! Thank you JP for making us your "go to" shop for the holiday season and selling us out year after year!!

The Newton Highlands outlet, which can be found on Lincoln Street, will remain in operation.

The address for the JP location of Cacao is 660B Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130. The website for the business can be found at https://cacaonuts.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, December 22, 2022

The Turnpike Cafe in Canton Is Closing

A roadside restaurant and bar in the southern suburbs is shutting down after more than 55 years in business.

According to a couple of sources (including a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page), the Turnpike Cafe in Canton is closing its doors, with a post on the Facebook page for the place saying that "We, like many other restaurants, have faced staffing issues and not fully recovered from pre-COVID times." The post says that its last day is Friday, December 23.

The Turnpike Cafe, which has been under its current ownership since 2012, is known for its classic American fare and bar food including burgers, pizza, wings, steak tips, fish and chips, club sandwiches, and more.

The address for the Turnpike Cafe is 958 Turnpike Street (Route 138), Canton, MA, 02021. Its website can be found at https://www.turnpikecafecanton.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, December 21, 2022

Evviva Trattoria Is Opening in Stoneham

A growing local group of Italian restaurants will be opening a new outlet north of Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Evviva Trattoria is planning to open in Stoneham, apparently moving into a space at Redstone Shopping Center on Main Street just south of Route 128. Once it opens, the new outlet will join others in Malden, Marlborough, Maynard, Westford, and Wrentham, and based on those restaurants it will likely offers soups, salads, panini, pasta dishes, pizza, and more, along with an extensive list of gluten-free items.

The address for the new location of Evviva Trattoria in Stoneham is 65 Main Street (Route 28), Stoneham, MA, 02180. The website for all locations can be found at https://www.evvivatrattoria.com/

[February 1, 2023 update: According to its website and social media, the Stoneham location of Evviva Trattoria 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]

Herby Q in North Billerica Has Closed

A barbecue spot north of Boston has shut down.

According to a source (Gary Goldblatt), Herby Q in North Billerica has closed its doors, with a Facebook post from the Nashua Road spot saying the following:

Dear Billerica, we took a big leap and moved here and brought our southern BBQ to you. We are so grateful for your support over the last 1.5 years. Unfortunately we have to close due to extenuating family needs that require us in another state for the foreseeable future. Truly we appreciate all of the love, kind words, repeat customers, and just being a part of the community.

A comment within the thread mentions that they will "still be back in Billerica for the long term and hope to support the community in other ways," though it isn't known if they might try to reopen the restaurant at some point.

Herby Q first opened in the fall of 2021 in the former QQ Asian Grill space, offering such items as pulled chicken, pulled pork, brisket, macaroni and cheese, and nachos.

The address for Herby Q was 240 Nashua Road, North Billerica, MA, 01862.

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, December 20, 2022

Blue Fish River Tavern Plans to Open in Former Milepost Tavern Space in Duxbury

A new dining spot is on its way to the South Shore, and the person behind it comes from a popular waterfront restaurant known for its steak and seafood dishes.

According to a source, Blue Fish River Tavern is planning to open in Duxbury, moving into the space on Route 3A that had been home to the Milepost Tavern Restaurant. We have been told that Erik Daigle--who was with East Bay Grille for more than 20 years--is overseeing the place and that it will focus on American fare, though no details on its menu have been given as of yet. If all goes as planned, Blue Fish River Tavern could be opening in the late spring of 2023 after renovations are complete.

The address for the upcoming Blue Fish River Tavern is 581 Tremont Street (Route 3A), Duxbury, MA, 02332.

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]

Taco John's to Expand to Massachusetts; Locations in Lawrence and Leominster in the Works

A chain of quick-service Mexican restaurants whose roots are out west will be expanding to the local area.

According to a press release, Taco John's is going to be opening outlets in Massachusetts, with two being slated for Lawrence (February) and Leominster (March) to start. We have been told that both dining spots will be 2000 square feet in size, and based on the menu at the existing locations, expect to see such options as tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, refried beans, and Potato Olés (fried potato nuggets with spices and sauce options). It appears that there could be at least 22 outlets of Taco John's opening up locally, though no other locations have been given as of yet.

Taco John's started out as a taco stand in Cheyenne, WY, back in 1969 and now has nearly 400 restaurants in 22 states. The website for the chain can be found at https://tacojohns.com/

[February 9, 2023 update: According to a press release, the Lawrence location of Taco John's opens on February 13.]

[June 1, 2023 update: A new press release indicates that the Leominster location of Taco John's opens on June 5.]

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, December 19, 2022

PZA in Salem Is Reborn Under New Ownership

A North Shore pizza spot has returned under new ownership and with a slightly different name.

According to a source, PZA in Salem has opened back up, and its full name--which had been PZA Gourmet Pizza--is now PZA Grille & Bar. In addition to pizza, the new incarnation of PZA offers such items as calzones, subs, wraps, burgers, club sandwiches, seafood items, pasta dishes, bowls, wings, chicken fingers, steak tips, and more.

It appears that PZA Gourmet Pizza shut down in the fall of 2021, though an exact closing date is not known.

The address for PZA Grille & Bar is 331 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA, 01970. Its website is at https://www.pzagrille.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]

Medford Brewing Company Opens in West Medford

A former contract brewery has debuted its very own brewery and taproom after being in the works for nearly four years.

According to a Facebook post from the place, Medford Brewing Company is now open in West Medford, moving into an old auto body shop on Harvard Avenue. Co-founders Nick Bolitho and Max Heinegg established the company in 2015 and started looking for a space in early 2019, with the West Medford plans being announced last October.

The address for Medford Brewing Company is 30 Harvard Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155. The website for the company is at https://medfordbrew.com/

[Earlier Article]
Medford Brewing Company to Open Brewery and Taproom in West Medford

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, December 16, 2022

Massimo's Ristorante in Wakefield to Close Down on December 22

This spring, it was reported that an Italian restaurant that has resided in several different locations over the years was up for sale, and now we have learned of a closing date for the place.

According to a Facebook post, Massimo's Ristorante in Wakefield is shutting down after business hours on December 22, with the post saying the following:

Massimos Ristorante has been open almost 30 years serving communities from Chelsea, Everett, Revere, Malden, and Wakefield. But We will be closing up shop here indefinitely 12/23/22. We will be open normal hours until then. And the final day is 12/22/22 open normal hours. We want to thank everyone for your support throughout this journey and we would never have made it this far without all of you!

Massimo's first opened in Wakefield in 2014, offering dishes such as lasagna, eggplant rollatini, fried calamari, spaghetti with garlic and oil, ziti primavera, lobster ravioli, veal parmigiana, and frutti di mare.

The address for Massimo's Ristorante is 19 Centre Street, Wakefield, MA, 01880. Its website is at https://massimositalian.com/

[Earlier Article]
Massimo's Ristorante in Wakefield Is 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]

New Owners Taking Over Maria's Restaurant in Braintree; Will Have New Name, Similar Menu

A longtime South Shore restaurant that featured Italian and Greek fare has come under new ownership.

According to an article in the Patriot Ledger, Maria's Restaurant in Braintree--which has been closed since July--will get a new name and some changes to the space (including a lounge in the front) while the menu will apparently be similar to that of Maria's. The post mentions that new owners Gac Lusha and Edmond Cela hope to get the dining spot open in early 2023 and that they will honor Maria's gift cards.

Maria's first opened in 1950, going through an ownership change in 1979; the restaurant was known for such dishes as fried calamari, meatballs, lasagna, chicken parmigiana, baked ziti, stuffed shells, veal saltimbocca, steak marsala, and pizza.

The address for the restaurant replacing Maria's is 240 Quincy Avenue, Braintree, MA, 02184.

[March 27, 2023 update: A Facebook post from the place indicates that the new spot replacing Maria's Restaurant opens today, and it is called Maria's Trattoria.]

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]

Abington Depot Restaurant in North Abington Is Closing

A restaurant south of Boston that is located in an historic building is shutting down.

According to a source, the Abington Depot Restaurant is closing its doors, with a Facebook post from the Railroad Street spot saying the following:

For 23 years, you have supported our staff, allowed us to be a part of your lives and helped to cement the Depot family in history. I am eternally grateful to have been a recipient or your generosity & kindness. Unfortunately, it is time for us to go. We have been struggling to keep up with the soaring costs to operate and it is no longer feasible. Not the way I saw it ending, but it is the reality.

Another Facebook post mentions that the dining spot plans to close on Saturday, December 17.

The Abington Depot Restaurant resides in a former passenger and freight railroad depot that dates back to the 1890s; the dining spot has been known as a family-friendly eatery over the years, offering such items as wings, nachos, quesadillas, French onion soup, burgers, American chop suey, macaroni and cheese, meatloaf, London broil, and pizza.

The address for the Abington Depot Restaurant is 101 Railroad Street, Abington, MA, 02351.

[December 22 update: The social media for the Abington Depot Restaurant confirms that the restaurant is indeed now closed.]

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]

Hayashi Sushi Opens in Former Small Batch Cafe/Roadworthy Space in Dedham

A new sushi place has opened in the southwest suburbs of Boston.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Hayashi Sushi is now open in Dedham, taking over the space on Washington Street that had been home to Small Batch Cafe until this spring, and before that, Roadworthy. The website for the restaurant mentions "Our Interesting History," saying that "Hayashi Sushi is one of the finest restaurants in Dedham MA....Exotic sauces and flavors intermingle on your plate, and the hot, tangy aromas waft up to meet your nose, creating an exciting taste journey you can experience only in our restaurant."

Another sushi spot named Hayashi can be found in Easton, though it doesn't appear that there is any connection between the two.

The address for Hayashi in Dedham is 125 Washington Street, Dedham, MA, 02026. Its website can be found at https://hayashisushima.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, December 15, 2022

Shah's Halal Food Plans to Open in Boston's Beacon Hill Neighborhood

A growing group of Middle Eastern restaurants whose roots are in New York City is planning to expand to not one, but two more spaces in the Greater Boston area, with one being right in the heart of the city.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Shah's Halal Food is planning to open a takeout-only location on Cambridge Street, moving into a space near Bowdoin Street on the edge of Beacon Hill. If given the green light to open (its plans were approved by The Zoning Board of Appeal this week but still needs an ok from the Boston Licensing Board), the new location would join one in Boston's Fenway/Back Bay and another in the works in Walpole, along with others on Long Island, north of New York City, Connecticut, New Jersey, and elsewhere. (A handful of Shah's food trucks and carts can be found in Queens and elsewhere.)

It looks like the address for the proposed Shah's Halal Food in Beacon Hill may be 106 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA, 02114 (as soon as we get confirmation, we will post an update). The website for all locations can be found at https://www.shahshalalfood.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]

Matsunori Handroll Bar Is Opening in Boston's Audubon Circle Area

A brand new spot that features a type of handheld sushi is on its way to Boston.

According to a poster (Geoff Wong) within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Matsunori Handroll Bar is getting ready to open in the city's Audubon Circle area, moving into a space next to Cafe Landwer on Beacon Street. Based on the pictures posted on its Instagram page, at least some of the offerings appear to be temaki sushi shaped a bit like tacos (and placed in what looks like metal taco holders); another type of handroll is the sushi burrito, which can be found at many dining spots in the Greater Boston area, though it isn't yet known if Matsunori will offer those as well.

The address for Matsunori Handroll Bar is 900 Beacon Street (Unit A) Boston, MA, 02215. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/matsunori.handrollbar/

[January 31, 2023 update: According to an article from Boston Magazine, Matsunori Handroll Bar 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]

Neko's Of New York Is Opening in Stoughton

A dining spot that had been in MetroWest until closing over the summer is being reborn in the southern suburbs of Boston.

According to a tweet from @JeremyKrantz, Neko's Of New York is planning to open in Stoughton, moving into a space on Sharon Street in Cobbs Corner near where Stoughton, Canton, and Sharon meet. Neko's had been located in Framingham until closing in August, and a Facebook post indicates that the new incarnation of the place will be different from the original, saying the following:

I've decided to equip the new store with brick deck ovens. 4 of them to be exact. Our menu has changed tremendously. Focusing on pizza mainly, I've categorized 5 different New York style pizzas in almost 18 different variations and or sizes. That's including NY Hand Tossed (round), Roman (half and full tray stretch), Sicilian (half and full sheet), calzones (4 size options), Strombolis (4 size options), Grandma Square and gluten-free options. After opening and finding our groove, I am committed and will launch, Neko's of Detroit, a category of pizzas prepared and baked using a completely different method. Buttery crispy thick crust, Wisconsin Brick Cheese and a finger licking sauce to layer on top.

No opening date has been given as of yet for the relaunched Neko's, so keep checking back for updates.

The address for Neko's Of New York in Stoughton is 111 Sharon Street, Stoughton, MA, 02072. Its website can be found at https://nekosofnewyork.com/

[January 30, 2023 update: @JeremyKrantz tells us that Neko's Of New York is now open in Stoughton.]

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]

Madras Dosa Co. to Open New Location in Cambridge's Harvard Square

A fast-casual Indian restaurant in Boston's Seaport District is planning to open a second location.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Madras Dosa Co. is opening in Cambridge, moving into a space on Eliot Street in Harvard Square. The new spot will have a similar menu to the original on Boston Wharf Road, including customizable dosas with such possible options as cheese, potatoes, green chili, chicken, beef, lamb, dried fruit, eggs, cashews, and more.

Madras Dosa Co. first opened in the Seaport District in the summer of 2021; the Cambridge outlet hopes to open later this month or in January.

The address for the upcoming Madras Dosa Co. in Harvard Square is 22 Eliot Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for the original location can be found at https://madrasdosaco.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, December 14, 2022

Public Coffee Co. Opens in the Forest Hills Section of Jamaica Plain

A new coffee shop that promises to be "Boston's Public Living Room" has come to Jamaica Plain.

According to a tweet from @jessekb, Public Coffee Co. is now open in the Forest Hills section of JP, moving into a space on Hyde Park Avenue just south of Forest Hills station. The website for the place indicates that it has teamed up with Broadsheet Coffee and MEM TEA (both of which are based in Cambridge), and in addition to coffee and tea, it offers hot chocolate, bottled smoothies, bagels, muffins, croissants, waffles, and more.

The address for Public Coffee Co. in Forest Hills is 182 Hyde Park Avenue, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130. Its website can be found at https://www.publiccoffeeboston.com/

(Plans for Public Coffee Co. were first reported by Universal Hub earlier this year.)

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]

Marseille Is Opening in the Former Brasserie/Gaslight Space in Boston's South End

It looks like the people behind a French restaurant in the South End of Boston are opening a new dining spot not too far away.

According to a post from BosGuy, the Petit Robert Bistro team is opening a restaurant that features southern French fare in the SoWa part of the neighborhood, moving into the space on Harrison Avenue where Brasserie had been, and before that, Gaslight Brasserie du Coin. BosGuy mentions that the new spot could be opening sometime in February or March if all goes as planned.

Petit Robert Bistro resides on Columbus Avenue, just under a mile away from their upcoming restaurant.

The address for the new restaurant coming from the people behind Petit Robert Bistro is 560 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118.

[January 6, 2023 update: Based on a licensing board hearing notice, the new restaurant moving into the former Brasserie/Gaslight space will be called Marseille.]

[May 2, 2023 update: A new article from BosGuy mentions that Marseille soft-opened over the weekend while its Instagram page indicates that it is indeed up and running.]

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]

Shah's Halal Food Is Opening in the Former GG Pizza Company Space in Walpole

A group of Middle Eastern restaurants whose roots are in New York City has expanded to a second location in the Greater Boston area.

According to a tweet from @JeremyKrantz, Shah's Halal Food is getting ready to open in Walpole, taking over the space in the Walpole Mall where GG Pizza Company had been, and before that, a location of Papa Gino's. Based on the other shops, expect to find such options as gyros, a variety of items over rice (including chicken, lamb, and falafel), salads, sandwiches, pita with hummus, baklava, and more, using 100% certified halal products.

The new eatery joins another location in Boston's Fenway/Back Bay along with a number of others on Long Island, north of New York City, Connecticut, New Jersey, and elsewhere. (A handful of Shah's food trucks and carts can be found in Queens and elsewhere.)

The address for Shah's Halal Food at the Walpole Mall is 90 Providence Highway (Route 1), East Walpole, MA, 02032. The website for all locations is at https://www.shahshalalfood.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]

Tuesday, December 13, 2022

Mia's Bakery to Open in Boston's Seaport District

It looks like a Brooklyn bakery is on its way to the Boston waterfront.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Mia's Bakery is planning to open in the city's Seaport District, with a sign out front saying "A Brooklyn favorite is headed toward Seaport." Based on the Smith Street location near where Cobble Hill and Boerum Hill meet in Brooklyn (and a second location in Times Square), expect to see a variety of cakes, pies, cupcakes, tarts, macarons, and more at the upcoming shop.

It appears that the new location of Mia's Bakery will open within The Superette, a retail, dining, and entertainment center on Seaport Boulevard that is currently under construction.

The website for Mia's Bakery can be found at https://miasbrooklyn.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]

Tatte Bakery & Cafe Plans to Open in the Former Not Your Average Joe's Space in Arlington

A growing group of bakeries and cafes may be opening a new location in the northwest suburbs of Boston.

According to a source (Aron Levy), Tatte Bakery & Cafe is looking to open an outlet in Arlington, with the address given on a page within the town's website indicating that it could be going into the space in Arlington Center where a location of Not Your Average Joe's had been. If given approval, the new outlet of the bakery-cafe would join a number of others in the Greater Boston area, including in neighboring Cambridge and Somerville.

The address for the upcoming location of Tatte in Arlington Center is 645 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02476. The website for all locations can be found at https://tattebakery.com/

[July 24, 2023 update: A check on the place indicates that the new location of Tatte in Arlington plans to open on August 2.]

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, December 12, 2022

Code 1 BBQ Is Opening a Restaurant in Wilmington

The couple behind a barbecue business in the northern suburbs of Boston will be opening their very own brick-and-mortar restaurant.

According to a source (Gary Goldblatt), Code 1 BBQ is planning to open a dining spot in Wilmington, with a Facebook post from co-owner Erica Marchant (that she posted on the Merrimack Valley Eats group page) saying the following:

Our vision for Code 1 BBQ is to continue to create delicious, scratch made smoked meats and sides for our family, friends, neighbors and local communities. We chose Wilmington especially because we live here and are so excited to be apart of the growing business community here. Supporting our community and local business is a priority for us. Sean is an Airforce veteran and that is where our name comes from. He's the pitmaster smoking all the meat and I am the chef working magic in the kitchen.

Code 1, which has been based in Woburn and focusing in part on catering, will take over the space where the Italian restaurant LaRosa's has been; LaRosa's will be reopening in a bigger space in the next few months.

The address for the new Code 1 BBQ restaurant in Wilmington is 211 Main Street, Wilmington, MA, 01887. Its website can be found at https://code1bbq.com/

[January 30, 2023 update: According to its social media, Code 1 BBQ is now open in Wilmington.]

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]

Mary Chung in Cambridge's Central Square Is Closing

A Chinese restaurant in Cambridge that has been popular with locals and college students alike over the years is shutting down.

A message sent to us by Adam Gaffin of Universal Hub (and via a tweet from Drew Starr) says that Mary Chung in the city's Central Square area is closing its doors, with a note on the door of the Mass. Ave. spot (that Drew took a picture of) indicating that its last day is December 31, and that the people behind it are retiring. The restaurant, which has been in business for 40 years, has been a favorite for nearby MIT students, offering mostly Chinese-American dishes and Sichuan fare.

The address for Mary Chung in Central Square is 464 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139.

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]

Stubbys Is Opening in Boston's Seaport District

It looks like yet another Nantucket restaurant will be expanding to Boston.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Stubbys is planning to open in the city's Seaport District, moving into a space on Northern Avenue. The post says that the upcoming fast-casual spot will feature breakfast all day along with lunch and dinner options, and it will have a seasonal patio in the warmer months. Once the restaurant opens (it is slated to debut in the spring), the new location of Stubbys will join two other branches of Nantucket-based dining spots in the Seaport District--LoLa 42 and Nautilus Pier 4--along with a seasonal Cisco Brewers beer garden, while another Nantucket spot called Fresh recently opened on Old Colony Avenue in South Boston.

The address for the upcoming location of Stubbys in the Seaport District is 43 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210. The website for the original location on Nantucket is at https://stubbysnantucket.com/

[May 2, 2023 update: According to a press release, Stubbys opens in the Seaport District on May 18.]

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, December 09, 2022

Jazz Urbane Cafe Still Planning to Open in Roxbury

A few years ago, it was reported that a cafe featuring live music could be coming to an historic building in Roxbury. Now we have learned that the plans are still on the table and appear to be moving forward.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Jazz Urbane Cafe continues to look at opening within the Ferdinand storefront section of the Bolling Building in Nubian Square. The people behind the proposed spot--Nia Grace of Darryl's Corner Kitchen & Bar, Berkeley Professor Bill Banfield, and entrepreneur Turahn Dorsey--will need to get approval for a variance by the Zoning Board of Appeal due to a lack of parking, as well as licenses to serve food and drink. If they get the green light to open, the new spot would feature live jazz music from both local and national performers (including acts from Banfield's Jazz Urbane record label) while the space may also be used for community events.

As mentioned earlier, the Bolling Building dates back to the 1880s.

The website for Jazz Urbane Cafe can be found at jazzurbanecafe.com

[Earlier Article]
Jazz Urbane Cafe Could Be Opening in Roxbury's Dudley 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]

El Peñol Opens in Brookline

It looks like a pair of Colombian restaurants in the local area have been joined by a third location.

According to a source, El Peñol is now open in Brookline, with a check on the website for the Harvard Street eatery showing that it is called "El Peñol 3" while the website for its Revere location is "El Peñol 2" (the original is in East Boston). The menu for the new spot hasn't been posted as of yet, but based on the other locations, it may be serving such items as empanadas, arepa, yuca frita, ceviche, carne asada, churrasco, tostones, paella, flan, and more.

The address for the new location of El Peñol is 404 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA, 02446. Its website can be found at https://elpenol3.business.site/

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]

Gourmet China House in Boston's Chinatown Neighborhood Has Closed

A restaurant in Boston's Chinatown neighborhood has very quietly shut down.

According to a tweet from @Railfan23, Gourmet China House is no longer in business, with a picture showing a sign out front at the Beach Street eatery saying "we will be ending our restaurant business on 11/28/2022 due to restaurant lease expires." The dining spot, which first opened in 2016, offered a mix of authentic Chinese and Chinese-American fare, including a number of frog and lamb dishes and some Taiwanese options as well.

The address for the now-closed Gourmet China House in Chinatown was 55 Beach Street, Boston, MA, 02111.

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 Dogwood in Jamaica Plain Is Closing

A popular spot for pizza, craft beers, and cocktails is shutting down.

According to a tweet from @jessekb, The Dogwood in the Forest Hills section of Jamaica Plain is getting ready to close, with the Washington Street spot posting the following on its website:

It is with deep regret and a heavy heart that after 27 years The Dogwood will be closing its doors for good January 14th, 2023. We are thankful for the continued patronage & support the community has offered through the years. To all our faithful & loyal Dogwood friends & family we thank you for the memories & look forward to having one more with you before we go to exchange the stories & memories this great establishment has offered us all. We hope to see you in these next few weeks.

No reason has been given for the closure, nor is it known what might move into its space.

The Dogwood has been known in part for its wood-fired pizzas named after trees (the Arnold Arboretum is within walking distance) along with fish and chips, chicken under a brick, steak tips, macaroni and cheese, and wings, and a rotating selection of local and regional beers, martinis, margaritas, sangria, and more.

The address for The Dogwood is 3712 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130. Its website can be found at https://thedogwoodjp.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, December 08, 2022

Coje Management Group Is Opening Caveau at Center Plaza in Downtown Boston

It looks like a local restaurant group is opening a new dining and drinking spot in downtown Boston.

According to a source (Jocelyn Tetrault), a new restaurant and bar tentatively called Caveau is looking to open at Center Plaza, with a licensing board hearing page within the city's website indicating that Coje Management Group is apparently involved; the company overseeing the place is CMG CP1, LLC, with a Google search indicating that Christopher Jamison of Coje is the registered agent of the company.

The hearing notice mentions that the new restaurant and bar would have seating for approximately 280 and an overall capacity of approximately 450, and that it would be on the ground floor of the building.

Coje Management Group is known for such spots as Yvonne's, Mariel, Ruka, Coquette, and Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bars.

The address for the new spot from Coje is 1-3 Center Plaza, Boston, MA, 02108. The website for the restaurant group can be found at https://www.coje.com/

[May 5, 2023 update: Boston Magazine reports that the new dining/drinking spot from Coje--which is called Caveau--is now open at Center Plaza, and it is a nightlife spot with dancing that is open Thursday through Saturday while offering small bites, desserts, and cocktails.]

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, December 07, 2022

Smith & Wollensky Is Opening in the Former Del Frisco's Grille Space in Burlington

Earlier this year, it appeared that a hospitality group which is part of an an Irish investment firm was going to open an Italian restaurant in the northern suburbs of Boston. Now we have learned that the group will be opening another one of its restaurants in the space instead.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Smith & Wollensky is going to be opening in Burlington, moving into the former Del Frisco's Grille space on Middlesex Turnpike. An earlier Daily Times Chronicle article confirms this while also saying that PPX Hospitality Brands had been looking to open a location of Strega in the space (which we reported on back in February), but ultimately decided that Smith & Wollensky would be a better fit since the space was already set up as a steakhouse.

PPX Hospitality Brands, which is headquartered in Medford, is part of the Dublin-based Danu Partners.

The address for the new location of Smith & Wollensky in Burlington is 92 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA, 01803. The website for its other locations (including in Boston and Wellesley) can be found at https://www.smithandwollensky.com/

[June 14, 2023 update: An email indicates that Smith & Wollensky in Burlington is now open.]

[Earlier Article]
Strega Plans to Open in Burlington

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, December 06, 2022

Render Coffee Is Opening within Foundation Kitchen Space in Charlestown

A trio of coffee shops in Boston is about to joined by a fourth.

According to a press release, Render Coffee is opening within the Foundation Kitchen space in Charlestown, with its grand opening being this Friday through Sunday. The new location will offer breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, and pastries in addition to coffee, and it will join others in Boston's Financial District, South End, and Seaport District.

The Foundation Kitchen space will also include a wine bar and food stalls as well as pop-ups, events, and cooking classes.

The address for the new location of Render Coffee in Charlestown is 32 Cambridge Street, Charlestown, MA, 02129. The website for the business can be found at https://www.rendercoffeebar.com/

[Earlier Article]
Foundation Kitchen to Open in Charlestown's Sullivan Square Area

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]

Bertucci's Files for Bankruptcy Once Again

A local chain of Italian restaurants that declared bankruptcy a few years back has done so again.

According to an article from the Restaurant Business website, Bertucci's filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday, citing both the pandemic and inflation as reasons for the filing. With the 2018 bankruptcy came a change in ownership along with the closing of some of its locations, but it is not known whether there will be another ownership change this time around, nor is it known if any outlets will be shuttering due to the filing (locations in Brockton, Canton, and Marlborough have been removed from their website though it isn't known if these closed before the bankruptcy filing).

The Bertucci's chain, which is headquartered in Northborough, first started out in Somerville in 1981. Its website can be found 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]

Monday, December 05, 2022

The Fieldston Restaurant in Marshfield Has Closed

A cozy South Shore restaurant that resided in a former boathouse has shut down.

According to a Facebook post from owner Jan Perrin, The Fieldston Restaurant has closed its doors, as Perrin has decided to retire after running the Ocean Street spot for nearly 30 years. In the note, Perrin says that "It has been a GREAT RIDE. We've crossed the finish. The Fieldston is retired. Thank you Friends and Patrons for riding the rollercoaster with us!" While earlier posts from her indicate that the restaurant has been up for sale, it isn't known what might become of the space at this point in time.

The Fieldston featured classic American fare, seafood, and regional items while also being known in part for its fireplaces and rustic atmosphere.

The address for The Fieldston was 882 Ocean Street (Route 139), Marshfield, MA, 02050.

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]

Eleni's Opens in North Woburn

Earlier this year, it was reported that the people behind a Greek and Mediterranean dining spot in the northern suburbs would be opening another restaurant a few miles to the north, and now we have learned that it has debuted.

According to an email from The Daily Lunch, Eleni's is now open in North Woburn, taking over the former Shallots space on Main Street. Unlike the original Eleni's in Winchester which is geared more toward takeout, the new outlet has a dining area with plenty of seating and it has a full liquor license, while its menu includes such items as hummus, saganaki, spinach pie, stuffed grape leaves, grilled Greek sausage, a village salad, lentil soup, moussaka, pastitcio, lamb shank, stuffed eggplant, gyros, shish kebab, lamb chops, mussels, and baked cod.

The address for Eleni's in North Woburn is 918 Main Street, Woburn, MA, 01801. Its website can be found at http://elenisrestaurantwoburn.com/

[Earlier Article]
Eleni's Restaurant Plans to Open in Former Shallots Space in North Woburn

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]

Saturday, December 03, 2022

Eastern Standard Is Returning; Will Open at the Fenway Center Development

It looks like one of Boston's best-known restaurants is being reborn.

According to a Facebook post from the place, Eastern Standard is planning to reopen, moving from its old location within the Hotel Commonwealth in Kenmore Square to the upcoming Fenway Center development, a life sciences complex that will sit over the Mass. Pike and will help connect Kenmore Square, Audubon Circle, and the Longwood medical area. The post says the following:

This space may not look like much right now, but come next year, it'll be full - of a new team, of plates of steak frites and bread pudding and burgers and the plat of the day, of guests new and old, of laughter and tears, of whiskey smashes, of cheers when the Sox hit a homer, and of stories. You shared some of those stories with us during these past few years, and we're honored and humbled to hear what a huge part of your lives Eastern Standard became over 15 years.

In early 2021, it was announced that Eastern Standard would not be reopening in its Kenmore Square space, with its space and both the Island Creek Oyster Bar and Hawthorne spaces being taken over by the NYC-based Blue Ribbon Restaurant Group, which has since opened Blue Ribbon Sushi in the former Hawthorne space and Pescador in the former Island Creek Oyster Bar space. Early this year, however, restaurateur Garrett Harker (who was behind all three spots) announced that he was planning to open four "food and beverage concepts" at Bower, a luxury destination on Beacon Street between Kenmore Square and Audubon Circle, though no specifics were given at the time.

If all goes as planned, it looks like Eastern Standard will be reborn in 2023.

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, December 02, 2022

Mission Boathouse Is Opening on the Beverly Waterfront

Four years ago, it was reported that a local restaurateur had submitted a proposal for a new dining spot to open at a long-vacant waterfront space on the North Shore, and now we have learned that the restaurant is finally getting close to opening.

According to a source, Mission Boathouse is planning to open soon on the Beverly waterfront, and as mentioned in an earlier article, Marty Bloom (Mission on the Bay Restaurant in Swampscott, Mission Oak Grill in Newburyport) is behind the Water Street restaurant. A Salem News article mentions that the three-story dining spot will have an outdoor deck with firepits on the first floor, along with garage-door windows on the third floor that can open during the warmer months, while all three floors will have views of the ocean--and the menu will have international influences including South American, Asian, French, and Cuban.

Plans were first announced for the restaurant in 2018, though another proposal for the space that went all the way back to 2012 was for a location of the Black Cow, though that fell through along with plans for an outlet of Flatbread Company to open there as well.

The website for Mission Boathouse can be found at https://missionboathouse.com/

[February 23, 2023 update: According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Mission Boathouse is now open.]

[Earlier Article]
New Proposal Submitted for a Restaurant to Open on the Beverly Waterfront

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]