Tuesday, January 31, 2023

The Futures of Christopher's and Toad in Cambridge's Porter Square Are Now in Doubt

It looks like two beloved spots in the Porter Square section of Cambridge face a very uncertain future.

Cambridge Day confirms what a source told us over the weekend, that the owners of Christopher's will not be reopening the place and that Toad--which is next door--may be going away as well, depending on whether Cambridge Eats and Beats (the group that also runs Cambridge Common and Lizard Lounge) sells the building or just sells the restaurant and the bar to new owners. Christopher's has been closed since the start of the pandemic in the spring of 2020 while Toad did reopen--and according to co-owner Holly Heslop, it will remain open "until we turn over the keys to someone."

Christopher's, which has been in operation for more than 40 years, was known for its classic American fare and cozy digs (including a fireplace) while Toad is a bar and no-cover music club that has featured countless local acts over the years.

Christopher's was at 1920 Massachusetts Avenue while Toad is at 1912 Massachusetts Avenue.

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!

Widowmaker Brewing in Braintree to Expand to Boston

A South Shore brewery is looking to open a new location, and this one would be in the city.

According to a message sent by Jay Gates of WBZ News Radio 1030, Widowmaker Brewing is planning to expand to Boston, which we were able to confirm with the people behind the Wood Road spot who had earlier put up an Instagram post hinting to this. More information should be coming out later in February, including its location and when it may debut, so stay tuned for updates.

Widowmaker Brewing first opened in Braintree in 2017, offering a variety of beers while also serving food via a variety of food trucks set up outside.

The address for Widowmaker Brewery is 220 Wood Road, Braintree, MA, 02184. Its website is at https://www.widowmakerbrewing.com/

[February 24 update: Widowmaker has confirmed what we heard earlier (and what a source told us yesterday), that its second location will be in the former Brato space in Brighton and that it will be called Widowmaker Taproom and Kitchen, with the people behind the Bone and Bread food truck heading up the kitchen.]

[October 23 update: According to a source, (and confirmed by a Facebook post), the new location of Widowmaker in Brighton soft-opens on Wednesday, October 25, with its grand opening taking place on Saturday, October 28.]

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!

Monday, January 30, 2023

Beantown Pho & Grill in Boston's Back Bay Is Closing

A Southeast Asian restaurant is saying goodbye to Boston after nearly 10 years in business.

According to a source, Beantown Pho & Grill in the Back Bay shuts down today, with a note out front referring customers to their affiliated restaurants--Noodle Barn in Jamaica Plain and Noodle Market in Arlington. The note indicates that the Newbury Street space may not be empty for long, as a new spot called Bangkok Bento plans to open there.

Beantown Pho & Grill first opened in 2014, taking over the space where a location of b.good had been; the dining spot offered such items as gyoza, chicken satay, pho, vermicelli bowls, pad Thai, drunken noodles, yellow curry, ginger fish, and more.

The address for Beantown Pho & Grill (and the upcoming Bangkok Bento) is 272 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116.

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!

A&D Clam Box Opens in Marblehead

A new seafood spot has come to the North Shore.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, A&D Clam Box is now open in Marblehead, moving into the space on Pleasant Street that had been home to B&B Fish until it announced last spring that it would not be reopening. A post from North Shore Eats indicates that the menu for A&D Clam Box includes such items as clam chowder, fried clams, baked haddock, fried shrimp, fried scallops, lobster rolls, calamari, burgers, chicken fingers, fries, onion rings, and more.

The address for A&D Clam Box is 195 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA, 01945.

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!

Friday, January 27, 2023

Flat Black Coffee Closes Its Franklin Street Shop in Downtown Boston; Dorchester Location Remains Open

What was once a local group of espresso bars is now down to just one.

According to a tweet from @PaulGerard, Flat Black Coffee on Franklin Street in downtown Boston is no longer in business, with a sign out front referring customers to their shop on Washington Street in Dorchester while also reminding people to shop online as they ship anywhere in the United States. Flat Back once had locations on State Street, Broad Street, and High Street in the downtown area in addition to its Franklin Street outlet, and another Dorchester location had been on Dorchester Avenue as well.

The address for the now-closed Flat Black Coffee on Franklin Street was 260 Franklin Street, Boston, MA, 02110. The website for the business can be found at https://flatblackcoffee.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]


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!

Comfort Kitchen Opens in Dorchester's Uphams Corner Neighborhood

A few years ago, it was reported that a new restaurant featuring global comfort food was on its way to an historic space in Dorchester, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to multiple sources, Comfort Kitchen is now open in Uphams Corner, moving into a former comfort station on Columbia Road that had been around since the early 1900s. As mentioned earlier, the place is a cafe during the day and a restaurant with a full bar at night, and its website says that it celebrates "the flavors and ingredients of the African diaspora — global comfort food — connected from Asia to the Americas." Initial plans for the space had been to open a combination bike shop/coffee shop called Sip & Spoke, but those plans ended up being scrapped.

The current menu for Comfort Kitchen includes such options as seared okra, jerk jackfruit sliders, plantain chips, spiced roasted eggplant, jerk roasted duck, potato curry cake, pistachio cardamom ice cream, and more.

The address for Comfort Kitchen is 611 Columbia Road, Dorchester, MA, 02125. Its website can be found at https://www.comfortkitchenbos.com/

[Earlier Article]
Comfort Kitchen May Open in Uphams Corner, As Plans for Sip & Spoke Fall Through

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, January 26, 2023

WakuWaku Ramen & Sake Is Opening a New Location in Cambridge's Harvard Square

A restaurant in Boston's Chinatown neighborhood that opened a couple of years ago is expanding across the river.

According to a source, WakuWaku Ramen & Sake is getting ready to open a new location in the Harvard Square section of Cambridge, with the website for the place indicating that it plans to debut on February 1. The original location opened on Tyler Street in Chinatown in the spring of 2021, offering an array of ramen and sake options along with such items as wings, duck bun, fried oysters, shrimp tempura, kimchi, shumai, pork chops, and more.

The website for WakuWaku mentions that another outlet could be coming to Waltham at some point as well.

The address for the new location of WakuWaku in Harvard Square is 33 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for the business can be found at https://www.wakuwakuramen.com/

[February 3 update: According to its website, the new location of WakuWaku in Harvard Square 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]


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!

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Season to Taste Restaurant Reopens in New Space Just Outside of Porter Square in Cambridge

Last spring it was reported that a high-end Cambridge restaurant was moving to a bigger space down the road, and we have learned that the move is now complete.

According to a source, Season to Taste is now open in its new space just south of Porter Square, taking over the storefront at 1678 Massachusetts Avenue that had been home to Mix-It Restaurant. The dining spot had previously been located at 2445-2447 Massachusetts Avenue near the Arlington line in North Cambridge, debuting in 2016 in a space that was--and remains--the headquarters for Season to Taste Catering as well as its commercial kitchen.

The website for Season to Taste restaurant can be found at https://www.seasontotaste.com/

[Earlier Article]
Season to Taste Restaurant in North Cambridge Plans to Move to Mix-It Restaurant Space

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!

Tuesday, January 24, 2023

Former Fireside Tavern Space in Jamaica Plain to Be Demolished, Replaced with Mixed-Used Development

Last March, it was reported that another old-school Boston dive bar was closing, and now we have learned that its building is slated to be torn down to make room for a new complex.

According to an article from the Jamaica Plain News (via the Approved Building Permits section of the City of Boston site), a permit has been issued to build a mixed-use apartment building at the site of the old J.J. Foley's Fireside Tavern space in the Forest Hills section of JP, with the development including nine residential units and ground-floor retail space. The post mentions that a separate permit to tear down the former bar has not yet been issued, though an excavation permit has been approved for work on the sewer and water systems along with the roadway.

J.J. Foley's Fireside Tavern dated back to at least the 1940s.

The address for the former Fireside Tavern space is 30 Hyde Park Avenue, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130.

[Earlier Article]
J.J. Foley's Fireside Tavern in Jamaica Plain 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]


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!

Monday, January 23, 2023

Big D's Neponset Cafe in Canton Is Closing

A longtime watering hole south of Boston that is known in part for its bar pizza is getting ready to shut down.

According to a message sent from Henry Santoro of WGBH, Big D's Neponset Cafe in Canton is closing its doors, with a Facebook post from co-owner Gary Titus confirming this, including a comment from him saying that the Washington Street spot has been sold. Big D's first opened in 1949, offering such items as quahogs, bar pizza, clam chowder, burgers, hot dogs, wings, steak tips, and more.

The address for Big D's Neponset Cafe is 497 Washington Street, Canton, MA, 02021. Its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/BigDsNeponsetCafe/

[February 9 update: According to a Facebook post from Gary Titus, the bar pizza from Big D's Neponset Cafe will apparently live on, as Little D's will be opening within Irish Brewing Boston in Norwood (Titus says in the post, "Same great ovens, same great pizza").] 

[February 20 update: Based on social media posts from Gary Titus, Big D's Neponset Cafe is 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]


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!

Sunday, January 22, 2023

Ashmont Grill in Dorchester Is Closing Permanently

A popular neighborhood restaurant is shutting down after being in business for nearly 20 years.

According to an article from The Boston Globe, the Ashmont Grill in Dorchester is closing its doors sometime around Valentine's Day, with Chris Douglass--who is the chef and owner of the Talbot Avenue spot--saying that "We have had a great run...and we are ready for new things." The Ashmont Grill, which first opened in 2005, has been known for its comfort food, New American fare, and cocktails, along with its shaded back patio complete with a fire pit. Douglass does say that Tavolo, an Italian restaurant he runs that resides a short distance down Dorchester Avenue, will remain in operation. 

The address for the Ashmont Grill is 555 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02124. Its website can be found at https://ashmontgrill.com/

[January 27 update: According to an Instagram post from the place, the Ashmont Grill closes at the end of business hours February 12.]

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!

Friday, January 20, 2023

IHOP in Brighton Could Be Torn Down to Make Way for an Affordable Housing/Life-Sciences Development

It looks like one of the only 24/7 dining spots in Boston could be going away.

According to an article from Universal Hub, a developer has submitted a proposal to build an affordable housing/life-sciences complex with retail space on Soldiers Field Road in Brighton which would be at the site of a location of IHOP along with a former motel, a car dealership, and an HVAC contractor. If approved and the IHOP is demolished, that would apparently leave only one remaining 24/7 restaurant for sit-down dining in the entire city--the South Steet Diner in the Leather District.

Several other locations of IHOP can be found in the Greater Boston area, including one in Revere that is open 24 hours.

The address for IHOP in Brighton is 1850 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA, 02135. The website for the chain can be found at https://www.ihop.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]


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!

Bukhara Indian Bistro Space in Jamaica Plain's Forest Hills Neighborhood Is For Lease

An Indian restaurant that moved from one part of Jamaica Plain to another a few years ago appears to be shuttered.

According to an article from the Jamaica Plain News, Bukhara Indian Bistro in Forest Hills has a "For Lease" sign in the window, and the website for the Washington Street spot says that it is closed every day of the week while its online ordering is "temporarily closed." Bukhara had moved from Centre Street to Washington Street in 2019, with the place saying at the time that the original space was being remodeled and that it planned to move back to its Centre Street home once the renovations were complete, but a tweet from the Jamaica Plain News mentions that its old space is now home to a Chase Bank.

The address for Bukhara in Forest Hills is 3698 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130. Its website is at https://bukharabistro.com/

[Earlier Article]
Bukhara Indian Bistro in Jamaica Plain Moving to New Space in Forest Hills

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!

Bakey Is Opening in Brookline

A Boston bakery that has a well-known Israeli baker behind it will be joined by another location just west of the city.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page (via an Instagram story from the business), Bakey is planning to open in Brookline, joining the one that opened on Tremont Street across from Boston Common in September of 2021. Based on that location, expect to see fresh breads, burekas, babkas, croissants, bagels, sandwiches, coffee, and more at the new store.

Bakey co-founder Uri Scheft is known in part for being behind Lehamim Bakery in Israel and Breads Bakery in New York City while also writing a cookbook called "Breaking Breads."

The website for Bakey can be found at https://bakeybabka.com/

[May 19 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page mentions (via a new Instagram post from the place) that Bakey debuts today in Brookline, with its address being 370 Harvard 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]


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, January 19, 2023

Civility Social House Plans to Open at Assembly Row in Somerville January 31

About a year ago, it was reported that a new restaurant and bar from a local restaurant group would be coming to a growing development in Somerville, and now we have learned that it is just about ready to open.

According to a press release, Civility Social House is looking to open at Assembly Row for dinner on January 31, with Chris Damian's Legendary Restaurant Group (Papagayo, Sip Wine Bar) being behind it. The release indicates that the new dining and drinking spot will offer both small, shareable plates and full meals with at least part of the focus being on modern takes on pub fare including charcuterie boards, burgers, flatbreads, lollipop chicken thighs, red wine braised short rib, pasta dishes, and more along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

In addition to dinner service, Civility Social House plans to add lunch and brunch service in the coming months as well.

The address for Civility Social House is 490 Foley Street, Somerville, MA, 02145. Its website can be found at http://www.civilitysocialhouse.com/

[February 1 update: Based on a Facebook post from the place, it appears that Civility Social House is now open.]

[Earlier Article]
An Nam, Civility Social House, Tatte Bakery & Cafe, Ten One Tea House, Tribos Peri Peri to Open at Assembly Row in Somerville

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!

Cafe Belo Is Opening in the Former Beacon/Angry Ham's Space in Framingham

A couple of years ago, it was reported that a restaurant/bar space in MetroWest that had seen some trouble over the years would become home to a new dining spot, and now we have learned that it is just about ready to open.

According to a Facebook post from Kiat Cormier, Cafe Belo is on the verge of opening in Framingham, taking over the old Beacon/Angry Ham's Space on Beacon Street. Based on information from both Kiat and an earlier article from the MetroWest Daily News, the new place will be a Brazilian steakhouse/barbecue restaurant with tableside meat carvings along with a full bar. (Kiat says that Cafe Belo plans to open on Saturday, January 21.)

As mentioned earlier, Beacon Street Bar & Grill (which became The Beacon before closing) and Angry Ham's were the site of multiple incidents that led to suspensions, even though the former tried to clean up the image of the old Angry Ham's by being more of a family-friendly place.

The address for Cafe Belo is 2 Beacon Street, Framingham, MA, 01701. Its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/oficial.cafebelo

[February 1 update: According to its Facebook page, Cafe Belo is now open in Framingham.]

[Earlier Article]
New Restaurant to Take Over Former Beacon/Angry Ham's Space in Framingham

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!

Shoyu in Saugus Is Expanding to Andover

A Chinese and Japanese restaurant north of Boston will be joined by another location north of the city.

According to an article in the Andover News, Shoyu on Route 1 in Saugus is expanding to the former Park Street Pub space in Andover, with the place going before the Andover Design Review board this week for approval of a sign. A note on the restaurant's website says that the new outlet had been planning to debut by the end of 2022; as soon as we find out when the place might be opening, we will post an update here.

The address for the new location of Shoyu in Andover is 40 Park Street, Andover, MA, 01810. The website for the Saugus location can be found at http://shoyusushi.com/

[May 10 update: A new article from the Andover News indicates that the new location of Shoyu in Andover 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]


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!

The Lobster Pot in Provincetown Is for Sale

A landmark restaurant at the tip of Cape Cod is on the market.

According to a source, the Lobster Pot in Provincetown is up for sale, with an article from WBSM and a real estate page showing that the Commercial Street spot is listed $14 million. The restaurant has been under its current ownership since 1979 when the McNulty family took over operations, and is known for such options as oysters, steamers, clam chowder, cioppino, baked Portuguese clams, grilled swordfish, boiled lobster, baked stuffed lobster, fried calamari, fish and chips, and more.

The address for the Lobster Pot is 321 Commercial Street, Provincetown, MA, 02657. Its website can be found at https://www.ptownlobsterpot.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]


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!

Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Bull Spit Brewing Company Closes Maynard Location, Will Open New Location in Winchendon

A brewery with two locations west of Boston has closed one of its spaces, though a new location is in the works.

Based on a tweet from @maynardbrewer and confirmed by a Facebook post from the business, Bull Spit Brewing Company has shut down its brewhouse, restaurant, and taproom in Maynard, with the post indicating that because of its plans to open a new facility in Winchendon, they have decided to close the space at Mill & Main (formerly Clock Tower Place). The post on Facebook also says that "Maynard was intended to be a temporary avenue for us to grow our brand while the environmental process of Winchendon was being completed." The upcoming Winchendon outlet will apparently open at the site of an old mill building and will include a brewery, winery, and distillery along with what looks to be an indoor and outdoor dining/drinking space (the name "the Bull Yard" is mentioned in the post).

The Maynard location of Bull Spit first opened last February, joining the original location in Lancaster (whose focus is on production and retail sales).

The address for the now-closed Bull Spit space in Maynard was 20 Sudbury Street, Maynard, MA, 01754. The website for the business is at http://bullspitbrewing.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]


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!

The Beacon, Stratus to Open at the Top of the Prudential Tower in Boston's Back Bay

A few years back, a proposal was submitted for the top of one of Boston's skyscrapers, and now we have learned that a restaurant and a cocktail lounge are part of the plans.

NBC Boston is reporting (via the Boston Business Journal) that the top of the Prudential Tower is slated to include a dining spot called The Beacon on the 50th floor and a bar called Stratus on the 51st floor, with the 52nd floor being home to an indoor observatory called The View and an elevated platform known as The Lookout. The top floor had previously been home to Top of the Hub, an iconic restaurant and events space that first opened back in 1965 and shuttered permanently around the start of the pandemic in March of 2020.

In addition to The Beacon, the 50th floor (which will be called The City) will also have exhibits including a theater while the 51st Floor will be called Cloud Terrace and will feature an open-air space including outdoor space at Stratus. (The entire three-story project--which is looking to open later this year--will be called View Boston.)

[June 13 update: An email and press release sent to us indicates that View Boston--including The Beacon and Stratus--will be opening on June 15.]

[Earlier Article]
Proposal Submitted to Build Prudential Center Observatory in former Top of the Hub Space and Two Floors Below It

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!

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

Shy Bird Opens at the Iron Works Building in South Boston

A bit more than a year ago, it was reported that a comfort food spot in Cambridge known in part for its chicken dishes would be expanding to South Boston. Now we have learned that the new outlet has debuted.

According to an article from Caught in Southie, Shy Bird is now open within the Iron Works building, which is at the site of the old Cole Hersee building on Old Colony Avenue. The new restaurant offers such items as chicken soup, rotisserie chicken, fried chicken sandwiches, chicken bites, smash burgers, macaroni and cheese, rigatoni with sausage, and more, and it joins the original location in Kendall Square.

The address for the new location of Shy Bird in South Boston is 12 Old Colony Avenue, South Boston, MA, 02127. The website for both locations can be found at https://www.shybird.com/

[Earlier Article]
Shy Bird in Cambridge's Kendall Square May Be Opening New Location 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]


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!

Gyro City in Boston's Fenway Has Closed; Brighton Location to Remain in Operation

A pair of Greek eateries is now down to one, as its original location has shut down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Gyro City in the Fenway section of Boston is now closed, with a note out front at the Peterborough spot saying that "our time here in Fenway has come to an end." The note does say that its outlet on Chestnut Hill Avenue in Brighton will remain open for business.

Gyro City first opened in the Fenway in 2014, offering gyros, souvlaki, spanakopita, baklava, and more; the Brighton location opened approximately three years later.

The address for the now-closed Gyro City in the Fenway was 88 Peterborough Street, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for the Brighton location is at http://gyrocityboston.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]


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!

Monday, January 16, 2023

Birds of Paradise Opens at the Charles River Speedway in Brighton

A new cocktail lounge has debuted in Brighton, opening within a marketplace across from the Charles River.

According to a post from Eater Boston and an earlier article from The Boston Globe, Birds of Paradise is now open at the Charles River Speedway, and as mentioned in an earlier article here, Ran Duan (Baldwin Bar, Blossom Bar, Ivory Pearl) and his team are behind the spot. As also mentioned earlier, the new place has a "Pan Am vacation vibe" in which its drinks menu includes options that are based on global pairings (for instance, from Jamaica to Italy), and its food menu is a bit more limited that Duan's other spots because of kitchen restrictions, but offers such items as seared scallops and sushi.

The address for Birds of Paradise is 525 Western Ave, Brighton MA, 02135. Its website is at https://www.birdsofparadisebar.com/

[Earlier Article]
Birds of Paradise Plans to Open in Brighton

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!

Friday, January 13, 2023

Exhibit 'A' Brewing Opens at Common Craft in Burlington

A brewery west of Boston has come to a multi-concept dining and drinking spot in the northern suburbs.

According to a press release as well as a message from a source, Exhibit 'A' Brewing is now open within Common Craft at the Burlington Mall, moving into the former Hermit Thrush space and joining Idle Hands Craft Ales, Deacon Giles Distillery, and Élevage Wine Room. Exhibit 'A' Brewing, which is based in Framingham, offers a variety of beers including their highly-rated Goody Two Shoes, which is a German-style Kölsch.

Common Craft first opened its doors last May.

The website for Exhibit 'A' Brewing is at https://www.exhibit-a-brewing.com/ while the website for Common Craft is at https://www.commoncrafthospitality.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]


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!

Eventide Fenway in Boston to Turn into Full-Service Restaurant with a Full Bar

A counter-service restaurant in Boston's Fenway neighborhood that is known for its seafood is going through some changes.

According to a message from Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting, Eventide Fenway is going to become a full-service dining spot with cocktails apparently being added to its options, with an Instagram post from the Boylston Street restaurant saying the following:

BIG NEWS, FRIENDS! We're getting a major makeover! After 5 years, hundreds of Red Sox games, thousands of lobster rolls, and a global pandemic we have decided to reintroduce Eventide Fenway as a full service restaurant - with a full bar! We will close on 1/24 to make the renovations necessary for our upgrade, and we will reopen at the start of Red Sox season. Not only will we be sporting a new look but we will also have a full liquor license. Stay tuned for updates on our reopening date!!! We are looking forward to the year ahead and hosting you in our improved space.

Up until now, the Fenway location of Eventide only had a beer and wine license while focusing on counter service and takeout/delivery. The restaurant is a second location of Eventide in Portland, with both locations being known for such items as oysters, lobster rolls, and clam chowder.

The address for Eventide Fenway is 1321 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. Its website can be found at https://www.eventideoysterco.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]


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!

ManRay Returns to Cambridge's Central Square January 18

After being in the works for ten years, a legendary Cambridge nightclub is finally getting ready to be reborn.

According to an article from Vanyaland, ManRay is slated to open in Central Square on January 18, and as mentioned here in an earlier article, it will be moving into the old ImprovBoston comedy club space on Prospect Street. The original ManRay, which previously resided on nearby Brookline Street, first opened in 1985, being an "underground" place that featured themed nights along with goth and new wave bands and more; it closed in 2005, though in 2013 there was talk about it returning to the neighborhood, and in 2021, it was learned that the place would indeed be coming back in a new space.

Vanyaland says that the new incarnation of ManRay will continue on as an alternative underground spot with DJs, occasional live music, and weekly themed nights including goth parties on Wednesdays, gay nights on Thursdays, fetish-themed industrial nights on Fridays, and electro and new wave parties on Saturdays.

The new address for ManRay is 40 Prospect Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website can be found at https://www.manraynightclub.com/

[Earlier Article]
ManRay Plans to Open in Former ImprovBoston Space in Cambridge's Central 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]


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, January 12, 2023

Ramen O'Bowl Is Opening in Cambridge

A new spot for ramen is on its way to Cambridge, and the people behind a vegan restaurant in the northern suburbs are opening the place.

According to a Facebook post from Bayberry Cafe in Woburn, Ramen O'Bowl is going to be opening soon on Mass. Ave. about midway between Porter Square and Harvard Square, with its website (which appears to be down right now) saying that it will serve "the most authentic ramen in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Our secret recipe: Broth made fresh daily right in front of you for at least 24 hours." Like Bayberry, it appears that the new ramen place will also be vegan.

The address for Ramen O'Bowl is 1668 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02138. Its website will be at https://ramenobowl.com/

[July 7 update: According to its social media, Ramen O'Bowl is now open, having had its grand opening yesterday, and as mentioned in another article here, Bayberry Cafe is 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]


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!

Goodnight Johnny's Music Bar Is Opening in Burlington

It looks like a restaurant and live music venue may be on its way to the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a source, Goodnight Johnny's Music Bar is looking to open in Burlington, moving into a space within The Shoppes at Simonds Park on Cambridge Street on the edge of the town center. An article from BCAT mentions that John Tebow--who is an investor and partner of The Bancroft restaurant in Burlington--is partnering with his wife to open the place, which would offer comfort food and feature live jazz, 80s cover bands, and more.

The address for Goodnight Johnny's Music Bar is 154 Cambridge Street, Burlington, MA, 01803.

[January 25, 2024 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page says (via a BCAT article) that Goodnight Johnny's Music Bar plans to open on January 30.]


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


Please help keep Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants going by making a one-time contribution or via a monthly subscription. Thanks! (Donations are non-deductible.)

 

The Vintage Tea and Cake Company Is Opening a Tearoom in Lexington

An event catering business in the western suburbs that includes a tearoom is expanding to a second tearoom.

An email sent to us mentions that The Vintage Tea and Cake Company is opening a second tearoom on Muzzey Street in Lexington, joining its Belmont tearoom which can be found on Belmont Street. A Facebook post indicates that the new spot will open this weekend, and based on the original location, expect afternoon teas along with mini-pastries, scones, finger sandwiches, and more.

The address for the new tearoom from The Vintage Tea and Cake Company is 21 Muzzey Street, Lexington MA, 02421. The website for the business can be found at https://www.vintageteaandcake.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]


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!

Burke's Alewerks Opens in West Newton

Last year, it was reported that a South Shore brewery and taproom was planning to expand to a space west of Boston, and now we have learned that it has opened, though it is actually a move rather than an expansion.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Burke's Alewerks is now open in West Newton, with a Facebook post from the business indicating that it debuted last weekend--and posters have told us that the Hanover location has closed so this is indeed a move contrary to what we had heard in the late winter of 2022. The new spot takes over a location of The Local, which continues to operate locations in Waltham, Wayland, and Wellesley.

Expect to find a mix of European and American-style ales at the new Burke's Alewerks in West Newton along with several wine options, while food offerings for now include pretzels and pizza.

The address for the new location of Burke's Alewerks in West Newton is 1391 Washington Street, West Newton, MA, 02465. The website for the business is at https://burkesalewerks.com/

[Earlier Article]
Burke's Alewerks in Hanover Plans to Open New Location in West Newton

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!

Wednesday, January 11, 2023

Little Moose Donuts Is Opening at Hub Hall in Boston's North Station Area

It looks like a brand new spot for donuts is on its way to a food hall in Boston.

According to a post within the jobs section of the bostonchefs.com site, Little Moose Donuts is planning to open at Hub Hall by North Station, with the listing indicating that the business is currently looking to hire donut makers. No other information can be found on the upcoming donut shop other than the fact that the contact person is Leah Olofson who is the registered agent of Little Moose Holdings, LLC, according to a business entity summary page within the State of Massachusetts website. 

Hub Hall opened at the Hub on Causeway development in September of 2021, with the food hall including approximately 20 food and drink spots.

The website for Little Moose Donuts can be found at https://littlemoosedonuts.com/

[February 21 update: According to its website, Little Moose Donuts 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]


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!

Chocho's at the Porter Exchange Food Court in Cambridge Has Closed

One of only a few Korean restaurants in Cambridge has shut down after being in business for nearly 20 years.

According to an article from Cambridge Day, Chocho's at the Porter Exchange Food Court is no longer in operation, with Sang Cho saying that they were going to retire. Cho did mention that the adjacent Yotopia snack shop, which is also run by the family behind Chocho's, will remain in operation.

Chocho's first opened in 2004, offering such options as steamed dumplings, kimchi fried rice, bulgogi, soft tofu stew, bibimbap, and more.

The address for Chocho's was 1815 Mass. Ave., Cambridge, MA, 02140.

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!

Tuesday, January 10, 2023

Avenue Deli in Lexington Opens New Location in Newton

A deli in the northwest suburbs has been joined by another location a few miles to the south.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Avenue Deli in Lexington Center has expanded to a new outlet in Newton, taking over the space on Beacon Street that had been home to Caprese Cafe & Pizzeria. The menu for the new spot includes a wide variety of sandwiches including corned beef, pastrami, egg salad, salami, bologna, and liverwurst, along with soups, salads, pizza, fish and chips, chicken fingers, and more.

Avenue Deli was established in 2009, coming under new ownership in 2013; it had once been located in Watertown.

The address for the new outlet of Avenue Deli is 1134 Beacon St, Newton, MA, 02461. Its website can be found at https://www.avenuedelinewton.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]


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!

Galit's Treats Cafe & Bakery in Newton Centre Is Apparently Closing

A coffee shop west of Boston that features Israeli items appears to be shutting down.

Based on a tweet from @BostonHanSolo, Galit's Treats Cafe & Bakery in Newton Centre is closing, as a screenshot of a post from owner Galit Grutman says that "After 6 years of baking and enjoying every minute of it, I've decided to close our shop and spend some more time with my family." The note indicates that the Beacon Street store plans to shut its doors after business hours on January 28.

Galit's Treats Cafe & Bakery has offered such items as rugelach, babka, cupcakes, burekas, muffins, scones, croissants, sandwiches, quiche, challah bread, coffee, hot chocolate, and more since opening in 2017.

The address for Galit's Treats Cafe & Bakery is 749 Beacon Street, Newton Centre, MA, 02459. Its website can be found at https://www.galitstreats.com/

[February 2 update: A Facebook post from the place confirms that Galit's Treats Cafe & Bakery is 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]


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!

Monday, January 09, 2023

The Riptide Lounge in Marblehead Is for Sale

A decades-old dive bar on the North Shore is on the market.

According to a source, the Riptide Lounge in Marblehead is up for sale, with Sam Gifford of Churchill Properties indicating that the building is priced at $1 million, including the second floor above the watering hole. The listing indicates that the space could continue to be home to a restaurant and/or bar, as it says the seller "is willing to cooperate with new owners on transferring existing Liquor License, if desired and permitted."

The Riptide is mostly a local hangout with pool, darts, and a jukebox along with some bar food.

The address for the Riptide Lounge is 116 Pleasant Street, Marblehead, MA, 01945.

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!

Brooksy's Is Opening in the Former Bertucci's Space in Andover

A new wood-fired pizza restaurant is on its way to a former Bertucci's space north of Boston.

According to an article from the Andover News, Brooksy's is getting ready to open on Main Street in the center of town, with the place offering beer and wine in addition to pizza and having seating for 59. The post mentions that they are waiting to hear back from owner Brooks Rice as to a possible opening date, so stay tuned for a possible update over the coming days.

The Andover location of Bertucci's closed down last spring.

The address for the upcoming Brooksy's in Andover is 90 Main Street, Andover, MA, 01810. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/brooksys_andover/

[March 13 update: An Instagram post from the place mentions that Brooksy's appears to be close to being up and running, as it is in the process of final inspections and will announce an opening date soon.]

[May 22 update: According to a source, Brooksy's 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]


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!

Johnny Pomodoro Opens in Charlestown

A new dining spot featuring a type of pizza that's not all that easy to find in the Boston area has debuted after being in the works for nearly two years.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Johnny Pomodoro is now open in Charlestown, moving into the space on Main Street that had once been home to New Speedy Chen's. An earlier article here indicated that the eatery might be offering bakery pizza, but as mentioned in an update, the pizza actually leans toward being Detroit-style while the menu also includes salads, wings, mozzarella sticks, meatballs, garlic knots, pasta dishes, and more.

The address for Johnny Pomodoro is 297 Main Street, Charlestown, MA, 02129. Its website is at https://www.johnnypomodoro.com/

[Earlier Article]
Johnny Pomodoro to Open in the Former New Speedy Chen's Space in Charlestown

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!

Wagon Wheel Diner Replaces Griddle & Grill in Sharon

A diner in the southern suburbs of Boston has been replaced by a brand new diner.

According to a source, Wagon Wheel Diner is now open in Sharon, replacing Griddle & Grill which closed its doors just after Thanksgiving. The new eatery offers such breakfast options as waffles, French toast, pancakes, omelets, and corned beef hash and eggs, while the lunch menu includes soups, salads, and sandwiches.

The address for Wagon Wheel Diner is 384 S Main Street, Sharon, MA, 02067. Its website can be found at https://wagonwheeldiner.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]


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!

Friday, January 06, 2023

My Sister's Sandwich Cafe (Bánh Mì Chị Tôi) Is Opening in Dorchester's Fields Corner

A new spot for Vietnamese sandwiches is coming to Dorchester.

According to a tweet from @DorchesterEsq, My Sister's Sandwich Cafe (which translates to Bánh Mì Chị Tôi) is having a grand opening in the Fields Corner area on Saturday, January 7, with the Dorchester Avenue place having an ownership connection to My Sister's Crawfish III which is located a couple of blocks north and which posted about the place on Facebook. @DorchesterEsq mentions that the menu will include an array of breakfast and lunch items along with snacks, with the focus apparently being on takeout.

The address for My Sister's Sandwich Cafe is 1544 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02122.

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, January 05, 2023

Playa Bowls to Open in South Boston, Replacing The Juice Box

A South Boston spot that featured fresh juices and more has shut down, though a New Jersey-based chain of dining spots will open a new outlet in its space.

According to a post from Caught In Southie, The Juice Box on W Broadway is no longer in business, having shut down on December 31, and Playa Bowls will be opening its seventh Boston-area location there. As a note on the window from the owner of The Juice Box indicates, there won't be a big change in concept once Playa Bowls opens, as the former offered juices, smoothies, and bowls much like the latter does, and it appears that Playa Bowls could open early this year if all goes well.

Other locations of Playa Bowls can be found in Brighton by Boston College, near Northeastern University in Boston, Cambridge's Harvard Square, East Milton Square, Brockton, and Winchester.

The address for the now-closed Juice Box (and upcoming Playa Bowls) is 359 W Broadway, South Boston, MA, 02127. The website for the Playa Bowls chain can be found at https://www.playabowls.com/

(Follow Marc on Bluesky at @marchurboston.bsky.social)


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


Please help keep Boston Restaurant Talk and Boston's Hidden Restaurants going by making a one-time contribution or via a monthly subscription. Thanks! (Donations are non-deductible.)

 

Dire Wolf Tavern Is Replacing Opus in Salem

A North Shore restaurant and bar known in part for its live music venue downstairs is shutting down and being replaced by a new spot under the same ownership.

According to an article from Vanyaland, Opus in Salem is closing its doors, with the restaurant part on the ground floor planning to say farewell after business hours on Saturday, January 7 while the Opus Underground music club had its final night on New Year's Eve. The post mentions that parent company Serenitee Restaurant Group (Maggie's Farm, 15 Walnut, Cala's Restaurant, Hale Street Tavern, The Spot, Minglewood Harborside, Alchemy), is reconcepting the space, though no details have been given as to the plans--and it doesn't appear that live music will be part of those plans.

The address for Opus (and Opus Underground) is 87 Washington Street, Salem, MA, 01970.

[January 13 update: A check on the place confirms that Opus is now closed, including both the restaurant and the music club.]

[February 14 update: A Facebook post from Creative North Shore indicates that the restaurant/bar replacing Opus will be called Dire Wolf Tavern, and its menu shows salads, sandwiches sushi, and brunch items; its website can be found at https://www.direwolfsalem.com/] 

[March 22 update: According to a source (and confirmed by the website for the place), Dire Wolf Tavern 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]


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!

The Breakaway in Danvers Has Closed

A live music venue on the North Shore has shut down.

According to a source, The Breakaway in Danvers is no longer in business, with a Facebook post from the Route 1 spot saying the following on New Year's Eve:

Happy New Year!!! Months ago I announced that tonight would be the last night at Breakaway. I wasn’t sure how the news would be taking but I hoped for the best. From our crew, musicians, regular guests (family), and all of you, I can’t say thank you enough. The support, encouragement, and outpouring of love has been overwhelming. Our management team and crew decided to announce it and try to go out on top. A farewell tour that anyone who wanted to be a part of was invited to. On behalf of the Breakaway team I can say we are humbled and grateful.

In addition to live music, The Breakaway also offered dining and drinking along with events, functions, and classes.

The address for The Breakaway was 221 Newbury Street (Route 1), Danvers, MA, 01923.

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!

Wednesday, January 04, 2023

Jongro BBQ Market May Be Opening in the Former White Horse Tavern Space In Allston

Last spring it was reported that a longtime dining and drinking spot in Allston had shut down, and now we have learned what might be going into the space.

According to a source, Jongro BBQ Market is apparently looking to open in Allston, moving into the space on Brighton Avenue that had been home to White Horse Tavern. A Google search seems to confirm this via a Bizapedia entry, and the registered agent given is Kyung Rim Choi who is presumably the same Kyung Rim Choi behind Group KFF Inc. which is the parent company of Jongro BBQ in Manhattan as well as other restaurants. Little other information has been given on the proposed spot in Allston, so keep checking back for updates.

The White Horse Tavern first opened in the late 1990s, changing its name to The Horse before closing sometime around May of 2022; the restaurant and bar was a popular hangout for college students, focusing mostly on pub grub and beer.

The address for the proposed Jongro BBQ Market is 116 Brighton Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134. The website for Jongro BBQ in New York City is https://www.jongrobbqny.com/

[Earlier Article]
White Horse Tavern In Allston Has Apparently Closed For Good

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!

Porcini's in Watertown Is Closing

An Italian and Mediterranean restaurant west of Boston that is known in part for its working fireplace and garden patio is shutting down.

According to a source, Porcini's in Watertown is getting ready to close its doors, with a post on its website saying the following:

It saddens us to have to announce today that Porcini's Italian Restaurant will be permanently closing our doors after 23 years of service on Saturday, January 14, 2023. The past 3 years have been devastating to our business, as we have struggled through the results of the COVID pandemic. Like many restaurants, we tried to make things work, but unfortunately cannot keep this business going.

In addition to Italian food, Porcini's offers dishes with French, Greek, and Moroccan influences.

The address for Porcini's is 68 School Street, Watertown, MA, 02472. Its website can be found at https://www.porcinis.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]


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!

Tuesday, January 03, 2023

So Sabe Opens in Dorchester

A new spot for Cape Verdean and Portuguese takeout food and catering has come to Dorchester, 

According to a tweet from @DorchesterEsq, So Sabe Catering & Treats is now open on Dorchester Avenue, moving into a space on the corner of Sudan Street in the Savin Hill neighborhood. The website for the business shows such items as chorizo and cheese bread rolls, a Cuban sandwich, vegetable soup, coxinha, patties filled with creamed cod, meat croquettes, chicken empanadas, mango mousse, nutella churros, macadamia cookies, and more.

The address for So Sabe is 996 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02125. Its website can be found at https://sosabecatering.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]


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!

Tanám at Bow Market in Somerville's Union Square Is Closing

One of the few Filipino dining spots in the Greater Boston area is shutting down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Tanám at Bow Market in the Union Square section of Somerville is closing its doors, with an Instagram post from owner Ellie Tiglao saying the following:

There's no easy way to say this, so it's important to begin with the reason for this post: Tanám is closing....I won't lie and say the pandemic was not the worst roadblock to a space that looked to connect strangers across a table. It has been difficult in ways you may only truly know if you're in this industry. My heart is breaking -- how could it not when you're still in love?...We return from break on January 5th with advanced reservation only private dining and kamayan to go (check out our Tock). Beverage service is limited and we will not be serving walk-ins. January 14th is our last day, but I hope this virtual space is a place we can continue to challenge norms that do not serve us.

Tanám first opened at the beginning of 2019, with Tiglao doing pop-ups in and around Boston for a few years before its debut.

The website for Tanám can be found at https://www.tanam.co/

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!

Monday, January 02, 2023

B.C. Baking Co. in Hyde Park's Readville Neighborhood Has Closed for Now; Future of the Place Is Unknown

One of Boston's most "hidden" food spots has shuttered, and it isn't known what might become of the place.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, B.C. Baking Co. in the Readville section of Hyde Park is closed for at least the time being, with a Facebook post from the Como Road spot saying the following:

As of January 1st, our family has decided to shut down the bakery for a little while. We are going to take this hiatus to regroup and figure out what’s in store for the future of BC Bakery. We love and appreciate all our customers and the community. You have become like family to us, so this was a very hard and ultimately sad decision to make, but it is what’s best for our family at the moment. We want to thank you for an AMAZING 45 years of business! I will post any updates or decisions that we make when we know. Happy and Healthy New Year! Love, Jimmy and the Mariano family

B.C. Baking Co., which resides in the middle of a residential neighborhood a few blocks east of the Dedham line, has been known over the years as a place to go for Italian pastries, cold cuts, pizza, bread, and more.

The address for B.C. Baking Co. is 27 Como Road, Hyde Park, MA, 02136.

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!

The Barker Tavern in Scituate Ends Restaurant Service; Hosting of Events to Continue

An iconic South Shore dining spot whose space dates back to the 17th Century is going through changes.

According to a source, The Barker Tavern in Scituate is no longer offering restaurant service, with a Facebook post from the place seeming to confirm this, saying the following:

As we say goodbye to another challenging year, we want to thank our customers, staff, and neighbors for all your support in our time of need. Barker Tavern will close a la carte dining beginning January 1, 2023. However, we will continue to host current and future private events. More information will be provided in the coming weeks.

According to its website, the Williams-Barker house was constructed as early as 1634 and was used as a garrison later in that century. The property was purchased in 1978 by Eli Jordan and The Barker Tavern was established, with the Jordan family running it to this day.

The address for The Barker Tavern is 21 Barker Road, Scituate, MA, 02066. Its website can be found at https://www.barkertavern.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]


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!