Boston Restaurant Talk: March 2023

Friday, March 31, 2023

Capri Bistro & Lounge Opens in Revere

A brand new Mediterranean restaurant has opened near the water just north of Boston.

According to a source, Capri Bistro & Lounge is now open in Revere, with a Revere Chamber of Commerce post from March 23 showing a ribbon cutting the day before. The Instagram page for the N Shore Road spot--which is within walking distance of Revere Beach--indicates that the place is a "Mediterranean fusion cuisine restaurant," though no menu has been seen as of yet; as soon as we find out what the dining spot offers, we will post an update here.

The address for Capri Bistro & Lounge is 1559 N Shore Road, Revere, MA, 02151. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/caprirevere/

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!

Chilacates Is Opening in South Boston

It looks like a growing local group of Mexican restaurants is opening yet another new location.

According to an article from Caught in Southie, Chilacates is planning to open in South Boston, moving into a space on L Street where a location of Tasty Burger had been until it was hit by a fire in 2018. Another outlet of the Mexican eatery appears to be in the works as well in East Cambridge, with all of the upcoming spots joining existing locations in Jamaica Plain (two), the South End, Mission Hill, Roslindale, and Brighton, Brookline's Coolidge Corner, and Chestnut Hill.

The address for Chilacates in South Boston is 69 L Street, South Boston, MA, 02127. The website for all locations can be found at https://chilacatesmx.com/

[April 13 update: A tweet from @chipsy231 indicates that the new Chilacates 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]

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Scores Is Opening in the Former Fours Space in Boston This Spring

A couple of years ago, it was reported that a new dining and drinking spot planned to take over the space where one of the city's most popular watering holes had been, and now we have learned that it is finally about ready to debut.

According to an article from boston.com, Scores is hoping to open in the former Fours space in the North Station/West End area of Boston in late April, with the Canal Street place offering "game-day favorites with an elevated approach." The article mentions that Humberto Gallardo (Grill 23 & Bar, Abe & Louie's) is the executive chef and that the menu will include such options as tater tot poutine, smash burgers, pork belly bao buns, flatbreads, and more.

The Boston location of The Fours first opened in 1976 and was a popular spot for sports fans until it closed in 2020, featuring meals named after local sports figures. Two other locations remain in operation in Quincy and Norwell.

The address for Scores is 166 Canal Street, Boston, MA, 02114.

[May 9 update: According to a press release, Scores opens its doors at 4:00 PM today.]

[Earlier Article]
Scores May Be Taking Over The Fours Space in Boston's North Station 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]

Ziggy & Son's Donuts to Reopen in New Location in Peabody

A location of a pair of North Shore donut shops is being reborn in a new space more than a year after one of its owners became very sick from Covid.

According to a source, Ziggy & Son's Donuts is in the process of reopening in Peabody, moving from 474 Lowell Street to 6 Bourbon Street, with a Facebook post from co-owners John and Pattie Akatyszewski showing a sign up at its new storefront. A series of earlier Facebook posts mentioned that John ended up in the hospital with Covid in the latter part of 2021 and was in the ICU at Salem Hospital for six weeks before entering rehab and the start of a long recovery process.

In addition to the shop that they are bringing back to Peabody, John and Pattie Akatyszewski are also behind a location of Ziggy & Son's on Essex Street in Salem. (The business was first established in Salem in 1964.)

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]

Petula's Is Opening in the Former Sixth Gear Space in South Boston

A few months ago, it was reported that a South Boston restaurant known for its small plates and comfort food had closed, and now we have learned what will be moving into its space.

According to an article from boston.com, Petula's is going to be opening on L Street where Sixth Gear had been, with Rachel Titcomb (a Nautilus and Broadway Restaurant Group alum) and Mike Shaw (Loco, Fat Baby) being behind the upcoming spot. The post mentions that the dining spot will have the look of a French cafe and it will focus on dishes featuring seasonal, local ingredients along with cocktails and natural wines, initially being open for dinner service once it opens in late April. (Breakfast, brunch, and lunch service will follow at some point.)

Sixth Gear first opened in early 2016; previously, it had been home to Sauce, and before that, Wolfie's Kitchen And Bar and Kelly's Landing.

The address for Petula's is 81 L Street, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/petulasboston/

[May 22 update: Caught in Southie mentions that Petula's is now open, and it offers such items as salads, wings, chips and dip, calamari, pizza, and steak frites.]

[Earlier Article]
Sixth Gear in South Boston Has 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]

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

New Paris Bakery in Brookline Is for Sale, Will Close in September

It looks like a bakery that got its start more than 100 years ago is for sale.

According to multiple sources, New Paris Bakery in Brookline is on the market, with pictures sent to us as well as a post within the Brookline Townwide Discussion Facebook group page showing a "for sale" sign out front. A comment from owner New Paris Bakery owner Roula Kappas within the Facebook group says that the shop will stay open through September and that it is indeed up for sale.

New Paris Bakery was established on Boylston Street in Boston in 1919, moving to its Cypress Street location in Brookline 10 years later; the shop is known for its eclairs.

The address for New Paris Bakery is 10 Cypress Street, Brookline, MA 02445.

[September 25 update: WBUR reports that New Paris 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]

Shojo Is Opening in Cambridge's Central Square in April

A couple of years ago, it was reported that a restaurant in Boston that features inventive takes on Asian food was planning to expand to Cambridge, and now we have learned that the new location is finally about ready to open.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Shojo is hoping to open its new outlet in Central Square in mid-April, with the Mass. Ave. spot joining the original restaurant on Tyler Street in Chinatown. Once it opens, expect to see modern takes on Southeast Asian dishes (including a handful of new dishes at the Cambridge location) as well as a variety of cocktails.

Brian Moy, who is behind Shojo, also runs Ruckus, a pan-Asian noodle bar in Chinatown, and Nomai, an Asian fusion restaurant in Hingham. (Another location of Shojo can be found at Logan Airport.)

The address for the upcoming Shojo in Central Square is 425 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website is at https://www.shojocambridge.com/

[April 6 update: A tweet from @TroySch1 and a note on the restaurant's website indicate that Shojo in Cambridge has soft-opened.]

[Earlier Article]
Shojo to Open in Cambridge's Central 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]

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

Salem Lowe at Salem Willows Park Is Reopening Under New Ownership

Last summer, it was reported that an iconic North Shore eatery featuring an unusual regional food item was closing down, but now we have learned that it will be reborn with new owners at the helm.

According to a source, Salem Lowe at Salem Willows Park is going to be reopening in April, with a Salem News article indicating that Kathleen Rodgers and Ryan Harriman of Spitfire Tacos in Salem and Marblehead are behind the rebirth of the place. The article mentions that the eatery, which is known in part for its chop suey sandwiches, will see some changes and upgrades, including the use of a pressure fryer for its chicken, and noodles with different styles and thicknesses being made in-house--and the place--which had been a season spot--will now be open year round.

The Yee family closed Salem Lowe last August after running the place at Salem Willows for more than 50 years.

The address for Salem Lowe is 201 Fort Avenue, Salem, MA, 01970.

[Earlier Article]
Salem Lowe at Salem Willows Park Is Closing

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

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Walnut Grille in Newton Highlands Is Being Replaced by Shiva's Kitchen

A vegetarian and vegan restaurant west of Boston is getting ready to closing down as the space will be going through a reconcepting.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Walnut Grille in Newton Highlands will soon be shutting its doors, with a Facebook post from the place saying the following:

As of April 1st, Walnut Grille will be closing. We want to thank everyone for all of their support over the past 10 years! Unfortunately, we never really recovered financially from the pandemic. However, our team will still be around! We will be rebranding to our new concept Shiva's Kitchen. Our new restaurant will be offering Indian cuisine. We will be open for lunch and dinner and available for catering. Please don't hesitate to ask for some of your Walnut Grille favorites if you need us to cater an event!

Walnut Grille first opened in 2013, focusing on vegetarian and vegan dishes while also offering many gluten-free options along with organic wines and cocktails.

The address for Walnut Grille (and the upcoming Shiva's Kitchen) is 1203 Walnut Street, Newton, MA, 02461.

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]

Sunday, March 26, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 26, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between March 20 and March 26, 2023.

Sullivan's Soft-Opens in Hanover
One of Boston's best-known seaside dining spots has expanded to the South Shore.
Full Story

Navigation Brewing Co. in Lowell to Expand to Second Location in Chelmsford
A brewery north of Boston is making plans to open a second location nearby.
Full Story

Bitty & Beau's Coffee in Melrose Has Closed
The sole Boston-area location of a group of coffee shops run by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has shut down, though they could be returning elsewhere.
Full Story

The Clam Box in Quincy Has Been Purchased by the Owner of Strawberry Fair in Norwell
A popular waterside seafood spot in Quincy that has been around for more than 50 years has been sold to the owner of another well-known South Shore restaurant.
Full Story

Mainely Burgers in Cambridge's Central Square Has Closed
A pair of burger spots with roots up north is now down to just one location.
Full Story

Friday, March 24, 2023

Flavor Boom Is Opening in Downtown Boston

A pair of dining spot that offer Asian and Mediterranean dishes is being joined by a new location in the heart of Boston.

According to a tweet from @ConciergeBoston, Flavor Boom is opening in the city's downtown area, moving into a space by the corner of Milk Street and Broad Street. Once it opens, the new eatery will join others in Watertown and Jamaica Plain, and based on those locations, expect to see such possible options as black pepper pork, shrimp curry, beef stew, chicken karahi, tamarind chicken, eggplant zaalouk, and sauteed octopus.

The address for the new location of Flavor Boom in downtown Boston is 155 Milk Street, Boston, MA, 02109. The website for the business can be found at https://www.flavor-boom.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]

Salvatore's in Medford Is Being Rebranded as Vault

It looks like a location of a local group of Italian restaurants is going through some changes.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Salvatore's in Medford shut down yesterday as it is going to be reconcepted, with a Facebook post from the business saying "We will be rebranding the restaurant to a new concept that will include a new menu, new look and new name in April." It isn't known as of yet what the name of the dining spot will be, nor is it known what kinds of food it might be offering, so stay tuned for updates.

Locations of Salvatore's in Andover and Lawrence remain in operation.

The address for the now-closed Salvatores (and the upcoming new concept) in Medford is 55 High Street, Medford, MA, 02155.

[April 3 update: A photo posted on the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page indicates that the new name for the space is the Vault.]

[April 7 update: A Facebook post indicates that Vault is now open, with a Facebook page for the new concept coming soon.]

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]

Our Fathers in Allston Plans to Return, Opening in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

An Allston deli that closed last year is planning to be reborn in a new space in the Fenway.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Our Fathers is looking to open back up in the Tasty Burger space on Boylston Street, as Tasty Burger makes plans to move to a new space around the corner on Van Ness Street. The deli said goodbye to its N Harvard Street space in the summer of 2022 after being in business for a bit less than five years, and there had indeed been chatter over the past few months about it possibly opening in the Tasty Burger space in the Fenway. (Both dining spots are part of the Franklin Restaurant Group.)

The address for the proposed new location of Our Fathers is 1301 Boylston Street while the address for the new location of Tasty Burger will be 86 Van Ness Street.

[Earlier Articles]
Our Fathers in Allston Has Closed
Tasty Burger in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood Is Moving to a New Location

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, March 23, 2023

Shiki Shabu Shabu Is Opening in the Former Playmakers Bar and Grill Space in Waltham

A new dining spot is on its way to Waltham, moving into a space that had been home to a sports bar.

According to a tweet from @y2000k, Shiki Shabu Shabu is going to be opening on Moody Street, taking over the former Playmakers Bar and Grill space which had also been home to Stadium Sports Bar and Grill, and before that, Robert's Restaurant and Bar. An earlier post from WCAC-TV had mentioned that Shiki Shabu Shabu had been planning to open in the space as far back as the latter part of 2021, and a sign for the place has finally gone up with @y2000k saying it appears that it could be opening soon.

The address for the upcoming Shiki Shabu Shabu is 342 Moody Street, Waltham, MA, 02453.

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]

WakuWaku Ramen & Sake Is Opening in the Former Pollo Club Space in Waltham

A couple of months ago, it was reported that a restaurant in Boston's Chinatown neighborhood was expanding to Harvard Square in Cambridge, and now we have learned that a new outlet is opening in the western suburbs as well.

According to a tweet from @y2000k, WakuWaku Ramen & Sake is going to be opening in Waltham, moving into the former Pollo Club space on Moody Street. An earlier article from WCAC-TV mentioned that the eatery would be opening in the 900-square-foot space while an article here stated that the Harvard Square location opened last month on Brattle Street. (The original location opened on Tyler Street in Chinatown in the spring of 2021.)

The address for the upcoming WakuWaku Ramen & Sake is 456 Moody Street, Waltham, MA, 02453. The website for the business can be found at https://www.wakuwakuramen.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, March 22, 2023

Sullivan's Soft-Opens in Hanover

Last spring, it was reported that one of Boston's best-known seaside dining spots was expanding to a space on the South Shore, and now we have learned that it is in the process of opening.

According to a source, Sullivan's has soft-opened at Hanover Crossing on Route 53 in Hanover, with a Patriot Ledger article saying that the new restaurant has both counter-service dining and full-service dining, including a full bar. A menu sent to us includes such familiar options as burgers, hot dogs, fish and chips, fried clams, and lobster rolls, and South Shore bar pizza is a new item that has been added to the menu, while a variety of local beers are available, as well as wine and cocktails.

Sullivan's first opened at Castle Island in 1951, with another outlet opening at Hub Hall by North Station in Boston in 2021. The website for Sullivan's is at https://www.sullivanscastleisland.com/

[Earlier Article]
Sullivan's at Castle Island in South Boston to Expand, Opening a Restaurant and Bar in Hanover

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]

Navigation Brewing Co. in Lowell to Expand to Second Location in Chelmsford

A brewery north of Boston is making plans to open a second location nearby.

According to a source (Aron Levy), Navigation Brewing Co. in Lowell is planning to expand to Chelmsford, with a Facebook post from the business saying the following:

We are thrilled to announce Navigation Brewing Co. is opening a 2nd location in the heart of downtown Chelmsford, MA. at 15 Central Square, minutes from 495 & Rte. 3, along side The Bruce Freeman Rail Trail. Over the coming months we will be working with the The Town of Chelmsford, MA and Black Rhinestone Real-Estate in building a neighborhood brewery & taproom to serve our handcrafted beers.

Navigation's Lowell facility can be found within Western Avenue Studios, an historic mill building which is home to artist studios and lofts.

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, March 21, 2023

Tavern in the Square Plans to Open Locations in Dedham, Framingham, and Weymouth

A local group of restaurants and bars is getting ready to expand in a big way locally.

Based on information from a source, a Patch article, and the website for the business, Tavern in the Square is planning to open new locations in the Greater Boston area in Dedham, Framingham, and Weymouth, with the Dedham outlet taking over the former Joe's space on Providence Highway and the Framingham location moving into Shoppers World (no address can be found for the Weymouth outlet as of yet). In addition, other new locations are on their way to Bedford, NH, and Salem, NH, as well, according to their website.

Currently, locations of Tavern in the Square can be found at North Station and South Station in Boston, Allston, Burlington, Littleton, Lowell, Shrewsbury, Tyngsborough, Woburn, Wrentham, and three in Connecticut and Rhode Island. The website for all locations is at https://www.taverninthesquare.com/

[June 10, 2024 update: According to a source, the Weymouth location of Tavern in the 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]

Dockside Pub to Open in the Former Zestfriendz Space in Swampscott

A few months ago, it was reported that a North Shore bakery and cocktail bar had closed down, and now we have learned that a new dining and drinking spot is taking over the space.

According to a source, Dockside Pub is planning to open in Swampscott, moving into the former Zestfriendz space on Humphrey Street. An article from itemlive.com mentions that the upcoming place will focus on seafood and that the people behind it (who also run the Village Tavern in Salem) also hope to set up a takeout window for beachgoers and others. If all goes as planned, Dockside Pub will open on June 1.

Zestfriendz shut down in December after being in business for a bit more than a year.

The address for the upcoming Dockside Pub is 286 Humphrey Street, Swampscott, MA, 01907.

[Earlier Article]
Zestfriendz in Swampscott Has 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]

Monday, March 20, 2023

Bitty & Beau's Coffee in Melrose Has Closed

The sole Boston-area location of a group of coffee shops run by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has shut down, though it looks like they could be returning elsewhere.

According to a source, Bitty & Beau's Coffee in Melrose is no longer in business, with an article from WCVB indicating that it shuttered on March 15 and that according to the company, "B&B Worldwide is actively pursuing a new Bitty & Beau's Coffee franchise location in Boston proper." The Melrose outlet of Bitty & Beau's first opened on Main Street in the summer of 2021, with the company currently including 23 shops in 12 states; founder Amy Wright named the shops after her daughter, Bitty, and her son, Beau, both of whom have Down syndrome.

The address for the now-closed location of Bitty & Beau's Coffee in Melrose was 462 Main Street, Melrose, MA, 02176. The website for Bitty & Beau's Coffee is at https://www.bittyandbeauscoffee.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]

The Clam Box in Quincy Has Been Purchased by the Owner of Strawberry Fair in Norwell

A popular waterside seafood spot in Quincy that has been around for more than 50 years has been sold to the owner of another well-known South Shore restaurant.

According to an article from the Patriot Ledger, The Clam Box at Wollaston Beach in Quincy has been purchased by Marko Fani who runs Strawberry Fair, an eatery in Norwell known in part for its breakfast dishes. The post mentions that the Schwanke family, who had been the owners of The Clam Box, sold the place for $1.325 million in February, while Fani indicates that there will be little in the way of changes to the restaurant, saying that "It's an institution where people expect what they're used to getting....(The previous owners) were doing a a great job. We'll keep it that way and make it better." Fani also indicates that The Clam Box, which hopes to open for the season later this week, could eventually be open year around.

In addition to The Clam Box, Fani also purchased the Baja Box next door, which is known for its tacos and ice cream; it should be opening for the season in late April.

The address for The Clam Box is 789 Quincy Shore Drive, Quincy, MA, 02170. Its website is at https://clamboxquincy.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]

Mainely Burgers in Cambridge's Central Square Has Closed

A pair of burger spots with roots up north is now down to just one location.

According to a source, Mainely Burgers in the Central Square section of Cambridge is no longer in business, with a Cambridge Day article stating that the last day in operation for the Massachusetts Avenue place was Friday. A Facebook post from the business says the following about the closure:

After six incredible years in Cambridge's Central Square we have made the difficult decision to close our restaurant. Our Boston Landing (Brighton) store will continue to remain open. To Cambridge, thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to be a member of the community. Being from Maine and opening our first restaurant ever, we did not know what to expect. We were so blessed that our customers, neighbors, city officials, license commission, economic development division and members of Central Square BID (@centralsqbid ) helped us feel at home over the last six years. Cambridge will always have a piece of our hearts.

Mainely Burgers started out as a food truck company focusing on gourmet burgers; its trucks can still be found in the Portland area.

The address for the now-closed location of Mainely Burgers in Central Square is 704 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139. The website for the business is at https://www.mainelyburgers.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]

Sunday, March 19, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 19, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between March 13 and March 19, 2023.

Moon Love Cafe Opens in Downtown Boston
A new spot that features bubble tea has come to the heart of Boston.
Full Story

Bailey and Sage to Return to State Street in Downtown Boston, Opening in the Former Au Bon Pain Space
A local cafe and caterer is being reborn on State Street, though in a new location.
Full Story

The Turing Tavern to Open in the Former Drifter's Tale Space in Inman Square
A new restaurant and bar is on its way to Cambridge, taking over the space where a comfort food spot with global influences had been.
Full Story

DW French Plans to Open in the Fenway
A new restaurant is on its way to Boston, and an award-winning chef is behind it.
Full Story

Bubbling Brook in Westwood Will Not Reopen Its Kitchen; Ice Cream Will Continue to Be Available
A popular roadside restaurant and ice cream stand will be scaling back operations for at least this season.
Full Story

Friday, March 17, 2023

Moon Love Cafe Opens in Downtown Boston

A new spot that features bubble tea has come to the heart of Boston.

According to a tweet from @ConciergeBoston, Moon Love Cafe is now open in the city's downtown area, moving into a space on State Street near where it meets Broad Street. Signs out front indicate that the new spot offers such options as brown sugar boba milk tea and strawberry matcha latte, and that its current hours are 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM Tuesday through Sunday.

The address for Moon Love Cafe is 107 State Street, Boston, MA, 02109.

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]

Akita Ramen Is Opening in Andover

A new ramen place that will be north of Boston is getting ready to open its doors.

According to a source, Akita Ramen is opening in Andover, moving into the former Dickey's Barbecue Pit space in the Shawnsheen Plaza on North Main Street. A Facebook comment from the place from a couple of weeks ago indicated that it was hoping to open in mid-March, though we are not sure if that it still the case; stay tuned for any updates as they come in.

Dickey's Barbecue Pit closed its Andover outlet last spring, with this being its only remaining location in New England. Another outlet had been in Seekonk, but it is no longer in operation, either.

The address for Akita Ramen is 209 North Main Street (Shawsheen Plaza), Andover, MA, 01810.

[March 23 update: An article from the Andover News mentions that Akita Ramen has soft-opened.]

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]

Bailey & Sage to Return to State Street in Downtown Boston, Opening in the Former Au Bon Pain Space

A couple of years ago, a local cafe and caterer closed its location on State Street in downtown Boston, and now we have learned that it is returning to that street, though in a new location.

According to a tweet from @ConciergeBoston, Bailey & Sage is planning to open in the former Au Bon Pain space at 53 State Street, with a picture showing a "Coming Soon" sign for the place. Once it opens, the new location will join others on Federal Street in the downtown area and Dartmouth Street near where the Back Bay and South End meet.

Bailey & Sage, which is known for its salads, sandwiches, and bowls, first started out in Cambridge's Kendall Square. Its website can be found at https://baileyandsage.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]

Cajun Window Is Opening in Dorchester

A new restaurant that will be offering be offering Vietnamese-Cajun seafood dishes is getting ready to open.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Cajun Window is planning to open soon in Dorchester, with a sign out front at the Neponset Avenue place saying that it will be featuring fried and boiled seafood. A voting hearing agenda page within the City of Boston website shows that the upcoming eatery will have seating for 16 and hours of operation being Monday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and the manager listed for the place is Loc Nguyen.

The address for Cajun Window is 400 Neponset Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02122.

[April 17 update: The Facebook page for the place indicates that Cajun Window 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, March 15, 2023

The Turing Tavern Is Opening in the Former Drifter's Tale Space in Cambridge's Inman Square

A new restaurant and bar is on its way to Cambridge, taking over the space where a comfort food spot with global influences had been.

According to a post within the jobs section of bostonchefs.com, The Turing Tavern is planning to open in Inman Square, with an earlier post from Cambridge Day indicating that it will move into the former Drifter's Tale space on Cambridge Street. The job post mentions that the upcoming place will have seating for 100 and will feature upscale comfort food, local craft beers, wine, and cocktails, and the listing also mentions music, though it is not yet known whether they mean live acts playing within the space. (Cambridge Day lists the manager as Damien Tubbritt, who is presumably the same Damien Tubbritt who had been the owner of The Alley Bar in downtown Boston until recently.)

The Drifter's Tale, which closed last summer, had also been home to a location of Bukowski's.

The address for The Turing Tavern is 1281 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139.

[September 13 update: According to a source, it appears that The Turning Tavern has very quietly opened, though there doesn't appear to be a website or any social media for the place as of yet.]

[Earlier Article]
Drifter's Tale in Cambridge's Inman Square Has Closed: Space Is on the Market

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]

DW French Is Opening in the Former Orfano Space in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

A new restaurant is on its way to Boston, and an award-winning chef is behind it.

According to a post within the jobs section of bostonchefs.com, DW French is looking to open at an undisclosed location in the Fenway, with the listing mentioning that Douglass Williams (Mida, Apizza) and his team are opening the place. It looks like the upcoming restaurant will be a modern French brasserie that "revolves around presenting the classics of French cuisine," and the beverage program will focus on French wines, cocktails, and spirits. If all goes as planned, DW French could open sometime this spring.

Douglass Williams has gained much recognition over the past few years, including being picked as one of the best new chefs in America by Food & Wine in 2020.

[March 20 update: A page within the jobs section of bostonchefs.com confirms what a couple of people within the restaurant have told us, that DW French will be taking over the former Orfano space at 1391 Boylston Street.]

[October 17 update: According to a press release, DW French opens its doors on Thursday, October 19.]

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.)

Monday, March 13, 2023

Bubbling Brook in Westwood Will Not Reopen Its Kitchen; Ice Cream Will Continue to Be Available

A popular roadside restaurant and ice cream stand will be scaling back operations for at least this season.

According to a source, the restaurant part of Bubbling Brook in Westwood is not going to be reopening as the business gets ready to get back up and running for 2023, with a Facebook post for the High Street spot saying the following:

After much consideration, due to some changes in staffing and wanting more of a work/life balance for our young family, our kitchen will not reopen this year. We look forward to serving ice cream to our loyal customers that we have been serving for years.

The post mentions that Bubbling Brook will open back up for the season on April 5, presumably offering both hard ice cream and soft-serve like in years past.

Bubbling Brook, which has been in business for more than 70 years, has been a popular spot for fried clams, burgers, hot dogs, onion rings, and more in addition to its variety of ice cream flavors.

The address for Bubbling Brook is 1652 High Street, Westwood, MA, 02090. Its website can be found at https://www.bubblingbrook.net/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston)

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

Sunday, March 12, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 12, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted over the past week or so.

Asian Gourmet Restaurant in Concord Could Be Replaced by a Location of Dunkin
A restaurant in the western suburbs of Boston that offers Chinese, Japanese, and Taiwanese food may be saying farewell to its home.
Full Story

Revival Cafe + Kitchen in Boston's Back Bay Is Closing
A trio of Boston-area cafes will soon be down to two, as its sole location within the city is shutting down.
Full Story

Neiman Marcus at Copley Place in Boston Plans to Open Two Lounges Within Its Space
It looks like the Boston location of a luxury retail chain will soon include a couple of places to grab a drink.
Full Story

Le's Vietnamese Restaurant in Harvard Square to Move to Boston's Chinatown
A popular Southeast Asian restaurant in Cambridge is moving across the river, as its current home is slated for redevelopment.
Full Story

HUE Opens in the Back Bay
Last spring it was reported that a new multi-level dining and drinking spot was on its way to Boston, and now we have learned that it has opened.
Full Story

Friday, March 10, 2023

Asian Gourmet Restaurant in Concord Could Be Replaced by a Location of Dunkin'

A restaurant in the western suburbs of Boston that offers Chinese, Japanese, and Taiwanese food may be saying farewell to its home.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Asian Gourmet Restaurant in Concord may be replaced by a location of Dunkin', with an application on the town's website showing the present use of the space being the former and the proposed use of the space being the latter. Asian Gourmet first opened approximately 30 years ago, offering such options as dim sum, sushi, and hibachi.

The address for Asian Gourmet Restaurant is 794 Elm Street, Concord, MA, 01742. Its website can be found at http://www.asiangourmetma.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]

Revival Cafe + Kitchen in Boston's Back Bay Is Closing

A trio of Boston-area cafes will soon be down to two, as its sole location within the city is shutting down.

According to a source (Sarah Wu), Revival Cafe + Kitchen in the Back Bay is closing its doors, with Eater Boston saying that its last day will be April 30 because the landlord is looking for someone to sign a long-term lease for the space but owners Steve "Nookie" Postal and Liza Shirazi can't do such a lease because the rent is too high. An Instagram post from the business says the following concerning the upcoming closure:

We have loved being a part of the Back Bay community and would love to find a new home. Thank you to our amazing staff who are the core of our business and to our wonderful guests. We are working hard to relocate all of our staff to other locations and are also looking for other turnkey opportunities, so please reach out if you have any leads! With lots of gratitude and compassion...And stay tuned on our future plans!

The Back Bay outlet of Revival Cafe + Kitchen first opened in the summer of 2020, joining locations in Cambridge's Alewife area and Somerville's Davis Square, both of which remain in operation.

The address for Revival Cafe + Kitchen in the Back Bay is 103 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for all locations is at https://www.revivalcafeandkitchen.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]

Cava Plans to Open in Framingham

A Washington, D.C.-based group of fast-casual Mediterranean spots is further expanding into the Greater Boston area.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Cava is planning to open in Framingham, with a site plan page indicating that it will be moving into a space at Shoppers World. Once it opens, the new location will join other locations in the region in Boston's Fenway and Back Bay (2), Cambridge's Kendall Square, Dedham, Hingham, and Woburn, and a Harvard Square location appears to be in the works as well.

Cava, which first started out in 2011, is known mainly for its customizable bowls and pita pockets. Its website can be found at https://cava.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, March 09, 2023

Chip City to Expand to Boston, Opening a Shop in the Back Bay

A cookie chain that is based in New York City is on its way to Boston.

Eater Boston is reporting that Chip City is planning to open a shop in the Back Bay, moving into a space by the corner of Newbury Street and Hereford Street. The website for the business mentions that its shops offer a rotating list of 18 types of cookies and that they are "hand crafted and created to satisfy your tastebuds, be gooey as possible and warm your hearts (and bellies.)," while Eater says that other outlets of the chain are slated to open in Boston's West End and at Arsenal Yards in Watertown later this year (an opening date has not yet been given for the Back Bay location).

Chip City was established in Queens in 2017 and currently has shops in Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Long Island, and New Jersey.

The address for the upcoming Chip City in the Back Bay is 316 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02115. The website for the chain is at https://www.chipcitycookies.com/

[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.)

Maprang Bakery & Cafe Is Opening in Somerville's Union Square

It appears that a new eatery is on its way to Somerville.

According to a source, Maprang Bakery & Cafe is looking to open in Union Square with an earlier Reddit thread seeming to refer to the place as well, as the original poster says "Saw that 51 Union Square (next to Reliable Market) is being renovated, and the posted permit said it's being converted to a coffee shop. I am curious what will open up in that space." We are trying to find out more about the upcoming spot and will post more details as they come in.

The address for Maprang Bakery & Cafe is 51 Union Square, Somerville, MA, 02143.

[May 2 update: According to a tweet from @andr_w, Maprang went through a soft opening over the weekend, with the post saying it has "Beautiful and delicious baked goods and coffee."]

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]

Neiman Marcus at Copley Place in Boston Plans to Open Two Lounges Within Its Space

It looks like the Boston location of a luxury retail chain will soon include a couple of places to grab a drink.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Neiman Marcus at Copley Place in the Back Bay is planning to add two lounges to its space, with one on the first floor having four seats and one on the second floor having six seats The post mentions that the two lounges will be tucked into the interior of the store away from the entrances/exits and that, according to store attorney Tyler Henseler, they will not turn into havens for "college-age kids or other rowdy customers causing any kind of disturbance."

UH mentions that the Copley Place location of Neiman Marcus once had its own restaurant in the 1980s.

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, March 08, 2023

Bertucci's in Peabody Has Closed

Less than a week after we reported that another location of a local chain of Italian restaurants had closed, it has now been learned that yet another outlet has shuttered as well.

According to multiple sources (including Clayton Daher, who first told us), Bertucci's in Peabody is no longer in business, with a check within the locations section of the chain's website seeming to confirm this. On Friday, it was reported that the Needham location of the chain had closed as well, and both the Peabody and Needham restaurants have joined a number of other outlets of the Northborough-based chain that have closed over the past several years, including at Alewife in Cambridge, Kenmore Square in Boston, and Faneuil Hall, as well as Andover, Beverly, Brockton, Canton, Marlborough, North Attleboro, and Woburn--and as stated earlier, the business also filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy toward the end of 2022.

The address for the now-closed location of Bertucci's in Peabody was 15 Newbury Street (Route 1), Peabody, MA 01960. The website for the chain can be found at https://www.bertuccis.com/

[Earlier Article]
Bertucci's in Needham Has 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]

Tuesday, March 07, 2023

Le's Vietnamese Restaurant in Cambridge's Harvard Square to Move to Boston's Chinatown

A popular Southeast Asian restaurant in Cambridge is moving across the river, as its current home is slated for redevelopment.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Le's Vietnamese Restaurant is planning to move from Harvard Square to the Chinatown section of Boston, with a Harvard Crimson article indicating that the restaurant is leaving because the building in which it resides--The Garage--is slated for renovations. It is not yet known when the move will take place, as construction has not yet begun, though the post does say that Le's will apparently be given three months' warning before they have to leave the space.

Le's has been a favorite among nearby college students over the years, offering such options as pho, vermicelli, rice plates, seafood dishes, and more.

The address for Le's Vietnamese Restaurant in Harvard Square is 35 Dunster Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138.

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]

b.good at Legacy Place in Dedham Has Closed

Yesterday, it was reported that another location of a local group of restaurants had closed, and now we have learned that yet another outlet has shut down as well.

According to a Tweet from @zipsix, b.good at Legacy Place in Dedham is no longer in business, with a check on the locations section of their website confirming this, as it has been removed from the site. As announced earlier, the Burlington location of the group of restaurants--which are known in part for their healthy options--had also closed, while outlets in Boston's South End, Bedford, Hingham, and Wellesley have shuttered as well over the past few years.

The address for the now-closed b.good in Dedham was 708 Legacy Place, Dedham, MA, 02026. The website for all locations is at https://bgood.com/

[Earlier Article]
b.good in Burlington Has Apparently 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]

Jejes Coffeehouse Is Opening in Wellesley

A new spot for coffee, baked goods, and more is on its way to the western suburbs of Boston, and it will be a kosher place.

Universal Hub is reporting (via kvhkosher.org) that Jejes Coffeehouse is planning to open in Wellesley March 8, with The Swellesley Report saying that its Kosher certification means that its offerings will be accessible to kosher/halal diners. In addition to coffee made using freshly-roasted organic fair trade beans, Jejes will also offer cookies, madeleines, muffins, and scones, along with organic tea.

The address for Jejes Coffeehouse is 259 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA, 02481. Its website will be at http://www.jejescoffeehouse.com/ while its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/jejescoffeehouse/

[March 13 update: According to multiple sources, Jejes Coffeehouse has opened its doors.]

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, March 06, 2023

HUE Opens in Boston's Back Bay

Last spring it was reported that a new multi-level dining and drinking spot was on its way to the Back Bay of Boston, and now we have learned that it has opened.

According to a tweet from @DorchesterEsq (via a post from @afrolatinax), HUE is now open at the Copley Square Hotel on Exeter Street (moving into the former Storyville space), with George Aboujaoude, (Committee, Eva. Bijou Nightclub and Lounge), Maurice Rodriguez, (La Brasa, Fat Hen), Nick Saber, and Robert Eugene being behind the place. As stated earlier, the space has two floors which include multiple bars and restaurant spaces with food offerings including comfort food items with international influences, and music is part of the plans including live acts and DJs.

The address for HUE is 90 Exeter Street, Boston, MA, 02116. Its website can be found at https://www.hueboston.com/

[Earlier Article]
HuE Plans to Open in Former Storyville Space in Boston's Back Bay

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]

b.good in Burlington Has Apparently Closed

It appears that yet another location of a local group of restaurants known in part for their healthy options has shut down.

According to a source (Aron Levy), b.good in Burlington is apparently no longer in business, with a check on the locations section of their website seeming to confirm that it has closed, as the Burlington Mall Road outlet no longer shows up. Last fall, a nearby location in Bedford also shut down, and over the past few years, outlets in Boston's South End, Hingham, and Wellesley have closed as well.

The address for the now-closed b.good in Burlington was 82 Burlington Mall Road, Burlington, MA, 01803. The website for all locations can be found at https://bgood.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston)

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

Sunday, March 05, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 5, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted over the past week or so.

Atwood's Tavern in Cambridge Is Closing
A beloved restaurant, bar, and music venue in Cambridge is saying farewell.
Full Story

Fabio Trabocchi May Be Opening a Location of Del Mar in Boston
It looks like an award-winning Italian chef may be bringing one of his concepts to Boston.
Full Story

Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar Plans to Open in the PlantPub Space in Boston's Fenway
It appears that a South Boston restaurant known for its Mexican fare and seafood may replace a vegan pub in the Fenway.
Full Story

Hook + Line Plans to Open in Boston's Seaport District; Thomas Schlesinger-Guidelli Behind It
A new restaurant may be on its way to the Boston waterfront, and a well-known name is involved.
Full Story

7ate9 Bakery in Somerville Is Closing
A Somerville bakery will soon be saying farewell.
Full Story

Friday, March 03, 2023

Bertucci's in Needham Has Closed

It looks like yet another location of a local chain of Italian restaurants has shut down.

According to a source, Bertucci's in Needham is no longer in business, with a check within the locations section of the chain's website confirming this, as the page for the Highland Avenue restaurant has been removed. A number of outlets of the Northborough-based chain have closed over the past several years, including at Alewife in Cambridge, Kenmore Square in Boston, and Faneuil Hall, as well as Andover, Beverly, Brockton, Canton, Marlborough, North Attleboro, and Woburn--and the business also filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy late last year.

The address for the now-closed location of Bertucci's in Needham was 1257 Highland Avenue, Needham, MA, 02492. The website for the chain is at https://www.bertuccis.com/

by Marc Hurwitz (Also follow us on Twitter at @hiddenboston)

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

Fritay Plans to Open in the Former 100% Delicias Express Space in Jamaica Plain

It looks like a Haitian/Caribbean restaurant is on its way to Jamaica Plain, and it will be taking over the space where a Dominican dining spot had been.

According to an article in the Jamaica Plain News, Fritay is planning to open on Centre Street in the former 100% Delicias Express space, with the post indicating that the word "Fritay" means fried foods, though a menu has not been seen for the upcoming eatery as of yet. 100% Delicias Express, which debuted in 2018, offered such items as mofongo and empanadas.

The address for the upcoming Fritay (and now-closed 100% Delicias Express) is 660A Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130.

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]

Pomona Cafe & Wine Bar Plans to Open in East Boston

A pair of cafes known for their coffee and cocktails will apparently be joined by a third, and this would be its first location within the Boston city limits.

According to a source, Pomona Cafe & Wine Bar is planning to open in East Boston, with signs being displayed for the business in the windows of a building on Meridian Street in Maverick Square. Once it opens, the new outlet will join others in Swampscott and Winthrop, and based on those locations, the cafe could be offering such items as salad bowls, grain bowls, breakfast dishes, coffee, juices, smoothies, coffee, and (if they acquire a liquor license) cocktails.

It appears that the address for the upcoming location of Pomona Cafe & Wine Bar is 18 Meridian Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. The website for the two existing locations is at https://www.antiquepomona.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, March 02, 2023

Bardo's Bar Pizza to Debut Mobile Pizza Trailer at Castle Island Brewery in Norwood; Further Expansion Plans in the Works

A year and a half ago, the owners of a longtime function space teamed up with a local brewer to serve bar pizza out of the kitchen of one of its locations, and now we have learned that the partnership will extend to the other location of the beer company--and more plans are on the way as well.

According to a press release, Bardo's Bar Pizza will be setting up a mobile pizza trailer at Castle Island Brewery in Norwood, joining its original location within the kitchen of the brewery in South Boston. The trailer is expected to be up and running as of May 1, and David Lombardo, who is Director of Operations of the Lombardo's Hospitality Group (which operates an event venue in Randolph), says that "This is the first in a series of planned initiatives for us throughout 2023-2024 including our retail launch and we are currently seeking a location for the next brick and mortar location for Bardo's....Right now, our main focus is launching more of our Bardo's Bar Pizza locations, our retail and vetting other opportunities locally."

Castle Island Brewing Co. first opened in Norwood in 2015, with the South Boston location--and Bardo's--opening in the fall of 2021.

The website for Bardo's Bar Pizza is at https://www.bardospizza.com/ while the website for Lombardo's is at https://www.lombardos.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]

Pressed Cafe Opens in Chelmsford

Back in 2020, it was reported that a growing group of dining spots that focus on healthy, freshly-made options would be expanding to a new location north of Boston, and now we have learned that it is finally open.

According to a source (Aron Levy), Pressed Cafe is now open in Chelmsford, moving into a space on Billerica Road in the Cross Roads at Route 129 development just west of the Route 3 intersection. The new location offers soups, salads, panani, breakfast dishes, and more, and it joins others in Boston, Burlington, and Newton, along with four in New Hampshire (Bedford, North Nashua, Salem, and South Nashua).

The address for the new location of Pressed Cafe in Chelmsford is 330 Billerica Road (Route 129), Chelmsford, MA, 01824. The website for all locations is at https://www.pressedcafe.com/

[Earlier Article]
Pressed Cafe Plans to Open in Chelmsford

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]

Dani's Queer Bar Plans to Open in the Former Pour House Space in Boston's Back Bay

A year and a half ago, it was reported that one of the best-known bars in Boston would not be reopening, and now we have learned that a new bar that caters to the LGBTQ community may be moving into the space.

Universal Hub is reporting (via a Simmons Voice article) that Dani's Queer Bar is planning to open on Boylston Street in the Back Bay, with UH saying that the space it is looking to move into is that of the now-closed Pour House (this seems to be confirmed by a Google search). The Simmons Voice article mentions that LGBTQ Nightlife Events is behind the upcoming place that could be opening sometime this month, and a statement from the organization says that "Our mission is to open Boston's first Queer Bar for women and non-binary LGBTQ+ community members who feel like we have no place."

The Pour House temporarily closed in March of 2020 as the pandemic took hold, announcing in September of that year that after 34 years it would not be returning; it appeared for a brief time that there was a chance The Pour House could return, though those plans apparently fell through.

The address for the upcoming Dani's Queer Bar is 907 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02115. Its website will be at https://danisqueerbar.com/

[August 17 update: Universal Hub indicates that Dani's Queer Bar is one step closer to opening, as the Boston Licensing Board has approved of the sale of The Pour House's liquor license to them.]

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, March 01, 2023

Atwood's Tavern in Cambridge Is Closing

A beloved restaurant, bar, and music venue in Cambridge is saying farewell.

According to a Facebook post from the place, Atwood's Tavern on Cambridge Street is getting ready to shut down permanently, with the post saying the following:

Atwood's Tavern will be closing our doors for the last time on March 31st. We would like to wholeheartedly thank everyone who has been a part of our community over the past 16 years. Atwood's wouldn't be Atwood's without all of you. So, if you get the chance, come by in the next month to say farewell....Thanks for all of the good times and memories.

The post hints that a new restaurant/bar could be taking over the space, saying that "This place has been a neighborhood spot and will continue to be....While we don't know yet who will be picking up the mantle, we are confident that they will provide the neighborhood with the community space it deserves."

Atwood's is known for its comfort food, extensive beer list, and wine and cocktail options while also hosting countless local bands and acts over the years.

The address for Atwood's Tavern is 877 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02141. Its website can be found at https://atwoodstavern.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]