Boston Restaurant Talk: June 2023

Friday, June 30, 2023

Folio to Open at the Boston Athenaeum in Boston's Beacon Hill Neighborhood

A new cafe is on its way to downtown Boston, and it is connected to an historic library.

Based on information from a source along with a message from the Boston Athenaeum, Folio is opening adjacent to the Athenaeum toward the end of the summer, and it will be open to the public with its own street entrance. The website for The Catered Affair (which is behind Folio) says that that diners will be able to "nosh made-to-order shareable plates, discover new and old-world wines, and sip craft cocktails in a European-inspired setting," while an Instagram post mentions that Alexandra Knibbe will be the restaurant manager, returning to the United States from France to be a part of the place.

The Boston Athenaeum is a membership library that is also one of the oldest independent libraries in the entire country (it was founded in 1807).

The address for the upcoming Folio is 14 Beacon Street, Boston, MA, 02108. Its web page is at https://www.thecateredaffair.com/folio/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/folioboston/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

The Smoke Shop BBQ Opens in East Boston in Early July

A new location of a local group of barbecue restaurants will open this weekend after being in the works for more than a year and a half.

According to a post within the bostonchefs.com site, The Smoke Shop BBQ plans to open at Clippership Wharf in East Boston on July 2, with the Lewis Street spot including three patios and offering such options as ribs, pulled pork, wings, burnt ends, and brisket, though they won't be serving alcohol initially, as they are still working on acquiring a liquor license. Once it opens, the new outlet of the BBQ restaurant will join others in Boston's Fort Point, Somerville's Assembly Row, Harvard Square and Kendall Square in Cambridge, and a food stand at Hub Hall by Boston's North Station.

The address for the new location of The Smoke Shop BBQ is 45 Lewis Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. The website for all locations can be found at https://thesmokeshopbbq.com/

[July 7 update: A check on the place indicates that the East Boston location of The Smoke Shop BBQ is now open.]

[Earlier Article]
The Smoke Shop BBQ to Open at Clippership Wharf in East Boston

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Cool Breeze Ice Cream Shoppe Is Opening by Nantasket Beach in Hull

A brand new ice cream shop is on its way to the South Shore, and it will be located across the street from a popular beach area.

According to a job post within the Craigslist site, Cool Breeze Ice Cream Shoppe is getting ready to open in Hull, moving into a space on Nantasket Avenue by Nantasket Beach. The post mentions that it plans to open within the next two weeks with seasonal hours being 12:00 PM to 9:00 daily. A website for the place does not appear to be up as of yet, nor are there any social media pages for the shop, so keep checking back for updates once we are able to find out more about the business.

The address for Cool Breeze Ice Cream Shoppe is 169 Nantasket Avenue, Hull, MA, 02045.

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Day & Night Cereal Bar Plans to Open in Brighton

A group of dining spots that feature customizable cereal bowls, shakes, and more will be expanding to Boston.

According to a tweet from @thompspicks, Day & Night Cereal Bar is planning to open in Brighton, moving into a space on Tremont Street in Oak Square. Based on the menus at its handful of locations mostly in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, expect to see go bars, bowls, and shakes with a variety of cereal options as well as toppings such as whipped cream, honey, drizzles, sprinkles, and gummy bears.

The address for the upcoming Day & Night Cereal Bar in Oak Square is 6 Tremont Street, Brighton, MA, 02135. The website for all locations is at https://www.dayandnightcereal.com/ while the Instagram page for its Brighton outlet (which says it opens in August) is at https://www.instagram.com/dayandnightboston/

[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.)

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Ten One Tea House Opens at Arsenal Yards in Watertown

A small group of tea shops with three locations in the Boston area has opened a fourth, with this one coming to a growing development just outside the city line.

According to a source (Sarah Wu), Ten One Tea House is now open in Watertown, moving into a space at Arsenal Yards. The new shop--which offers such options as bubble tea, milk tea, and slushes--joins other locations in the Back Bay, Fenway, and Assembly Row in Somerville, along with one in Providence.

The address for the new location of Ten One Tea House at Arsenal Yards is 105 Bond Square, Watertown, MA, 02472. The website for all locations is at https://www.tenoneteahouse.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/tenoneteahouse_us/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

PLNT Burger Plans to Open in Brookline's Coolidge Corner

A vegan burger chain is planning to open its third Boston-area outlet, and this will be its only standalone spot in the region.

According to an article in the Brookline News, PLNT Burger is going to be opening in Brookline, moving into a space on Harvard Street in the Coolidge Corner area. The 35-seat eatery will be a fast-casual place that offers burgers, fries, and shakes that are 100% plant-based, and it will join locations inside Whole Foods in Boston's South End and Dedham's Legacy Place along with a handful of others along the East Coast--including standalone outlets in New York.

No opening date for the new location of PLNT Burger has been given as of yet; as soon we hear of a possible opening date, we will post an update here.

The address for the upcoming PLNT Burger in Coolidge Corner is 297 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA, 02446. The website for all locations can be found at https://www.plntburger.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.)

Sip of Joy Cafe and Bakery Is Opening in Boston's South End

A new bakery-cafe is on its way to the South End of Boston.

According to an article from What Now Boston, Sip of Joy Cafe and Bakery is planning to open on Tremont Street, with Matt Sari and his wife (whose name is not given in the article) being behind the spot. The post mentions that the shop may be opening in July, while a licensing board hearing page says that the space will include a coffee bar counter with stools and a few tables set up, along with a seasonal patio.

The address for Sip of Joy Cafe and Bakery in the South End is 661 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02118.

[July 25 update: According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Sip of Joy Cafe and Bakery is now open.]

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Tuesday, June 27, 2023

Soi 8/Sushi Ike Opens at MarketStreet Lynnfield

A new dual-concept Asian restaurant has come to a development along Route 128.

According to a press release, Soi 8/Sushi Ike is now open at MarketStreet Lynnfield, with Soi 8 offering a dishes with Thai, Cambodian, Laotian, and Indonesian influences including such options as crispy veggie rolls, drunken noodles, Indonesian fried rice, and Penang, while Sushi Ike offers sashimi, nigiri, classic and specialty rolls, and appetizers.

The website for Soi 8 can be found at https://www.soi8lynnfield.com/; the website for Sushi Ike is at https://www.sushilynnfield.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

OTTO Pizza Is Opening in South Weymouth

A group of pizzerias with roots up north will be opening its first location on the South Shore.

According to a tweet from @BigOnTheCeltics along with a message sent to us by Hungry Lyons Market and Deli, OTTO Pizza is planning to open in South Weymouth, with a check on the space showing a sign up for the spot on the ground floor of the Mio residential complex on Trotter Road (opposite the South Weymouth commuter rail station). Once it opens, the new location of OTTO will join others in Andover, Arlington, Beverly, Boston's South End, the Boston/Brookline line (by BU), Brookline's Coolidge Corner, Cambridge's Harvard Square, Lynnfield, Newburyport, and South Boston along with other locations in New Hampshire and Maine (where it was first established).

The address for the new location of OTTO in South Weymouth is 39 Trotter Road, Weymouth, MA, 02190. The website for all locations is at https://www.ottoportland.com/

[September 26 update: According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, OTTO is now open in South Weymouth.]

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Monday, June 26, 2023

Revival Cafe + Kitchen Opens in Downtown Boston

A pair of Boston-area cafes has become a trio once again, as a new location has opened its doors--and this one is in the heart of the city.

According to a tweet from @DTownBostonBID, Revival Cafe + Kitchen is now open in downtown Boston, moving into a space by the corner of Devonshire Street and Milk Street. The new shop joins others in Cambridge's Alewife area and Somerville's Davis Square, while another outlet on Newbury Street in the Back Bay closed down this spring. (It appears that another new one may be coming to Lexington Center as well.)

The address for the new location of Revival Cafe + Kitchen in downtown Boston is 121 Devonshire Street, Boston, MA, 02108. The website for the business is at https://www.revivalcafeandkitchen.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Flatbread Company in Bedford Has Closed

The sole remaining Boston-area location of a group of flatbread pizza spots has shut down.

According to an article in the Bedford Citizen, Flatbread Company in Bedford has closed its doors after being in business for 18 years, with founder Jay Gould saying that "We are saddened that due to the financial impact of the pandemic combined with a slow recovery has brought us to make this difficult decision," while President/COO Jason M. Lyon states that "Our Monday through Friday lunch business which accounted for more than 50% of our weekly sales is no longer there. We've waited for two and half years for it to bounce back; unfortunately, we can't hold out any longer to see what the future holds."

With the closing of the Bedford location and the switching of outlets in Brighton, Somerville, and Salem to American Flatbread, there are no more Flatbread Company restaurants in the Greater Boston area, with the closest one now being in Amesbury.

The address for the now-closed Flatbread Company in Bedford was 213 Burlington Road, Bedford, MA, 01730. The website for the Amesbury location (as well as outlets in Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Hawaii) can be found at https://flatbreadcompany.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Sunday, June 25, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending June 25, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between June 19 and June 25, 2023.

The Sugar Factory Plans to Open in Faneuil Hall in the Former Anthem Kitchen & Bar Space
A group of restaurants known in part for their desserts may be coming to downtown Boston, and it would replace a dining and drinking spot that closed a couple of years ago.
Full Story

ZaZiBar Plans to Open in Boston's Seaport District
The person behind two Caribbean/Latin/Asian fusion cuisine spots in Boston is looking to open a third place, and this one will be along the waterfront.
Full Story

Verveine Cafe & Bakery to Open in Cambridge
A brand new Parisian-style dining spot is on its way to Cambridge, and a couple of well-known names are behind it.
Full Story

Good Company to Open in Charlestown
An award-winning beverage director who is also known for his beverage consulting and bartending is going to be opening a cocktail bar in a new development just off Route 93.
Full Story

Bar 'Cino to Open in Westwood, Replacing Chiara
A casual upscale Mediterranean restaurant is being replaced by a dining spot from a regional restaurant group.
Full Story

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!

Saturday, June 24, 2023

Couch Dog Brewing Company Opens in Salem

A brand new brewery and taproom has debuted on the North Shore.

According to a tweet from @berkie1, Couch Dog Brewing Company is now open in Salem, with the website for the Lafayette Street spot saying the following:

Our focus is on fun, aromatic, and Asian-inspired ales, and we aim to bring some diverse and exciting flavors to Massachusetts' thriving craft beer scene....First and foremost, we aim to have a positive impact on our community by fostering an inclusive environment, hosting events, promoting local eateries and businesses, and partnering with charity organizations.

Couch Dog mentions on its site that this is a soft opening with limited hours for its taproom for now (Saturday and Sunday from noon to 8:00 PM).

The address for Couch Dog Brewing Company is 76 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA, 01970. Its website can be found at https://www.couchdogbrewing.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Friday, June 23, 2023

The Sugar Factory to Open in Faneuil Hall in the Former Anthem Kitchen & Bar Space

A group of restaurants known in part for their desserts may be coming to downtown Boston, and it would replace a dining and drinking spot that closed a couple of years ago.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the city's website, The Sugar Factory is looking to open at Faneuil Hall, taking over the space where Anthem Kitchen & Bar had been. The notice mentions that the proposed spot would be on two floors and would also include a covered and an uncovered patio.

Based on the other locations, the Boston outlet of The Sugar Factory will likely offer a mix of classic American and New American fare, milkshakes, an extensive list of cocktails, and desserts such as cheesecake, ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, and cookie skillets.

The address for the upcoming Sugar Factory is 100 Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, MA, 02109. The website for the company is at https://sugarfactory.com/

[July 26 update: According to a press release, The Sugar Factory plans to open at Faneuil Hall on September 1.]

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

ZaZiBar to Open in Boston's Seaport District

The person behind two Caribbean/Latin/Asian fusion cuisine spots in Boston is looking to open a third place, and this one will be along the waterfront.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the city's website, Orlie Roberts is planning to open ZaZiBar in the Seaport District, moving into the space on Seaport Boulevard that had been home to The Paris Creperie. The notice mentions that the new spot--which would be under the same ownership as ZaZ in Hyde Park and at City Hall Plaza in downtown Boston--will include bar and table seating along with a seasonal patio, while an earlier article from Edible Boston says that ZaZiBar will be a cocktail bar that offers tapas-style food.

Another location of The Paris Creperie remains in operation in Brookline.

The address for the upcoming ZaZiBar in the Seaport District is 60 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA, 02210. The website for ZaZ is at https://www.zazrestaurant.com/

[September 26 update: According to a press release, ZaZiBar is slated to open on October 10, and it will include vegan dishes on its menu along with meat and seafood options while also offering both classic and modern cocktails.]

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Verveine Cafe & Bakery Plans to Open in Cambridge; Ken Oringer and Monica Glass Are Behind It

A brand new Parisian-style dining spot is on its way to Cambridge, and a couple of well-known names are behind it.

The Boston Globe is reporting that Verveine Cafe & Bakery is planning to open in a space on Mass. Ave. between Central Square and MIT, and that Ken Oringer (Coppa, Faccia a Faccia, Little Donkey, Toro) and Monica Glass (Clio, Gotham Bar & Grill, Le Bernardin) are teaming up to open it. The article mentions that the upcoming eatery will offer such items as cream biscuits with maple pepper bacon and scrambled eggs, kimchi egg danish, and fried strawberry chamomile doughnuts, and the hope is that it will open sometime this fall.

As mentioned by the Globe, Glass worked alongside Oringer at Clio, which shut down at the end of 2015.

The address for the upcoming Verveine Cafe & Bakery is 298 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139.

[May 2, 2024 update: The Boston Globe mentions that Verveine Cafe & Bakery opens on May 6.]

[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.)

Good Company Is Opening in Charlestown

An award-winning beverage director who is also known for his beverage consulting and bartending is going to be opening a cocktail bar in a new development just off Route 93.

According to an article within the bostonchefs.com site, Good Company is planning to open at Hood Park in Charlestown, with Seth Freidus (Eastern Standard, Alden & Harlow, Waypoint, Ledger, Bar Volpe, Contessa) being behind it. The post mentions that Freidus had been hoping to open the place in 2020 but it was delayed due to the pandemic; if all goes as planned, Good Company will debut sometime this fall.

Freidus was beverage director at both Alden & Harlow and Waypoint, with the former being awarded best bar program by Boston Magazine in 2015 and the latter being awarded Best Cocktail Program from Boston Magazine in 2017.

The address for Good Company is 100 Hood Park Drive, Charlestown, MA, 02129. Its website is at https://www.goodcompanyboston.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/goodcompanybos/

[November 15 update: According to a press release, Good Company debuts this evening, with the new spot offering a variety of cocktails along with beer, wine, flights of spirits (rum, agave, bourbon and rye, Irish whiskey and scotch, Japanese whiskey, cognac, armagnac, and sherry), and food options such as oysters, fried green olives, wings, burgers, crab toast, steak tartare, ice cream sandwiches, and more.]

[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.)

Thursday, June 22, 2023

Bar 'Cino Plans to Open in Westwood, Replacing Chiara

Yesterday, it was reported that a casual upscale Mediterranean restaurant in Westwood will be closing later this year, and now we have learned that a regional restaurant group is planning to open a new location of one of its concepts there.

According to a source, Bar 'Cino is looking to open in Westwood, taking over the space on High Street that is currently home to Chiara. Once it opens, the new outlet--which is part of the Newport Restaurant Group and which is known for its Italian fare and cocktails--will join others in Brookline and Newport, RI, along with another coming to Watertown that is slated to open this summer.

Chiara plans to close in early October after 18 years in operation.

The address for the upcoming Bar 'Cino (and the still-open Chiara) is 569 High Street, Westwood, MA, 02090. The website for Bar 'Cino can be found at https://barcino.com/

[Earlier Article]
Chiara in Westwood Is Closing

(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.)

Wicked Cafe Opens in Somerville

A new dining spot has come to Somerville, replacing a bakery that closed earlier this year.

According to multiple sources, Wicked Cafe is now open on Highland Avenue, moving into the space that had been home to 7ate9 Bakery until it shut down in March. Based on a Yelp page for the place as well as our sources, it appears that the new spot offers such options as breakfast and lunch sandwiches, baked goods, coffee, and more, though there doesn't appear to be a website or any social media pages for the place as of yet so a specific menu has not been seen.

The address for the new Wicked Cafe in Somerville is 199C Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA, 02143.

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, June 21, 2023

Chiara in Westwood Is Closing

A casual upscale Mediterranean bistro in the southwestern suburbs of Boston is shutting down.

According to a source, Chiara in Westwood is closing its doors, as the people behind it are selling the business to a restaurant group. It looks like the dining spot will shutter sometime in early October, though no specific closing date has been given as of yet.

Chiara, which first opened nearly 18 years ago, offers such items as mussels piccata, calamari, pork chops, pan-roasted salmon, gnocchi, sirloin steak, and roasted chicken breast.

The address for Chiara is 569 High Street, Westwood, MA, 02090. Its website can be found at https://www.chiarabistro.com/

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

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

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Double Zero in Boston's Back Bay Has Closed

It looks like a vegan pizzeria that got its start in New York City has closed its Boston outlet.

According to a source, Double Zero in the Back Bay is no longer in operation, with the website for celebrity chef Matthew Kenney (who is behind the place) showing that the Newbury Street eatery is no longer listed. It appears that Double Zero may have shuttered sometime this spring, though it doesn't look like an announcement was ever made on its closure.

Double Zero, which first started out in the East Village of Manhattan, debuted in the Back Bay in the summer of 2021.

The address for the now-closed location of Double Zero in the Back Bay was 163 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for Matthew Kenney Cuisine is at https://www.matthewkenneycuisine.com/

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

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

Monday, June 19, 2023

CT Pizzeria Opens in Watertown

A brand new dining spot that offers pizza and more has come to a space in Watertown that had been home to another pizzeria.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, CT Pizzeria is now open on Pleasant Street, taking over the former Pleasant Pizza & Subs space. A sign out front for the place also says "Graze -- Live Off the Land" while its website and Instagram page indicate that Christian Tapia--who was born and raised in Chile--is behind it. A photo of the menu for CT Pizzeria shows such options as breakfast pizza, margherita pizza, a pizza with ground bison on it, bison breakfast burritos and breakfast sandwiches, bison burgers and meatball subs, grilled chicken sandwiches, and more.

The address for CT Pizzeria is 467 Pleasant Street, Watertown, MA, 02472. Its website can be found at https://ct-pizzeria.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/ct_pizzeria/

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

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

Abington Depot Restaurant in North Abington Has Reopened

A suburban restaurant in an historic location that shut down late last year has been reborn.

According to a source (Wayne Tucker), the Abington Depot Restaurant in North Abington is open once again, with social media posts indicating that the Railroad Street spot is now under new ownership. The previous owners, who ran the place for 23 years, said in December that "We have been struggling to keep up with the soaring costs to operate and it is no longer feasible. Not the way I saw it ending, but it is the reality."

The space in which the Abington Depot Restaurant resides is an old passenger and freight railroad depot that goes back to the 1890s.

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

[Earlier Article]
Abington Depot Restaurant in North Abington 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]

Sunday, June 18, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending June 18, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between June 12 and June 18, 2023.

Dumpling Daughter in Cambridge's Kendall Square Is Closing
A trio of Chinese restaurants will be shutting down one of its locations in what appears to be a move.
Full Story

La Padrona to Open at Raffles Hotels & Residences in Boston's Back Bay
A new hotel in Boston will be home to a dining spot from a well-known local restaurateur later this year.
Full Story

Ziggy Bombs to Open by Boston University
A Worcester dining spot known for its steak and cheese subs is on its way to Boston.
Full Story

Cornish Pasty Co. in Boston's Back Bay Has Closed
A British-style spot in the Back Bay of Boston has shut down.
Full Story

Green Papaya in Waltham Is Closing
A longtime Thai restaurant located just off Route 128 is shutting down.
Full Story

Friday, June 16, 2023

Applebee's in Woburn Has Closed

A casual dining chain continues to disappear from the local landscape as it has closed yet another Boston-area location and now only has three outlets left inside/along Route 128.

According to a source, Applebee's in Woburn is no longer in operation, with a Daily Time Chronicle article indicating that the Elm Street restaurant shut down around the end of April. This is one of a number of locations of the chain to have closed over the years, including ones in Boston's Back Bay, Braintree, Brighton, Danvers, Dedham, Malden, and Newton; currently, the only ones remaining in the immediate Boston area are in South Bay, Quincy, and Saugus.

The address for the now-closed Applebee's in Woburn was 2 Elm Street, Woburn, MA, 01801. The website for the chain can be found at https://www.applebees.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, June 15, 2023

Dumpling Daughter in Cambridge's Kendall Square Is Closing

Late last year, it was reported that a trio of Chinese restaurants known for their dumplings would be expanding to South Boston, and now we have learned that this is actually more of a move, as one of its outlets is shutting down.

According to a source, Dumpling Daughter in the Kendall Square section of Cambridge is closing its doors, with a picture sent showing a note out front at the Ames Street spot saying "thanks for giving our dumplings a home for the last 5 years! We're moving to Southie on 6/30." As mentioned earlier, the new location of Dumpling Daughter will be opening in the former Lee Chen's space at 475 W Broadway, joining existing locations in Weston and Brookline's Coolidge Corner, though it was originally thought to be a fourth location rather than a move.

The address for the Kendall Square location of Dumpling Daughter is 73 Ames Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142. The website for all locations is at https://www.dumplingdaughter.com/

[Earlier Article]
Dumpling Daughter to Open in South Boston

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Zo Greek to Open in Boston's Seaport District

A pair of Greek restaurants will be joined by a third location and this one will be by the Boston waterfront.

According to a source, Zo Greek is planning to open in the city's Seaport District, moving into the ground floor lobby space of the Seaport East development at Commonwealth Pier (by Congress Street and Seaport Lane). The Pembroke site mentions that the new location, which will join others in downtown Boston and Somerville's Assembly Row, will be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it will have the same offerings as the Somerville location, including beer, wine, and cocktails.

If all goes as planned, the new location of Zo Greek will open this fall.

The website for Zo Greek can be found at http://www.zoboston.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Ziggy Bombs Plans to Open by Boston University

A Worcester dining spot known for its steak and cheese subs is on its way to the local area.

According to a source, Ziggy Bombs is looking to open by Boston University, with the Instagram page showing posts hinting at this while also saying that locations in both Boston and Leicester are "coming soon." Ziggy Bombs, which has a brick and mortar on Franklin Street in Worcester along with a food truck, offers 10 different types of steak and cheese subs as well as wings, ribs, nachos, fries, onion strings, and "Ziggy Pops."

The website for Ziggy Bombs can be found at https://www.ziggybombssubs.com/

[August 11 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page mentions that Ziggy Bombs will be opening at 173 Amory Street on the Boston/Brookline line (technically in Brookline) in the space where Boston House of Pizza had been.]

[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.)

Central Perk Coffeehouse Plans to Open in Boston's Back Bay

A brand new coffeehouse is on its way to the Back Bay of Boston, and its name will be familiar to fans of a sitcom that ran from the 1990s to the early 2000s.

According to an article from People, Central Perk Coffeehouse is planning to open on Newbury Street, with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment and CenPer Holdings, LLC (which includes restaurateur/celebrity chef Tom Colicchio as a partner) being behind it. The upcoming spot is based on the fictional Central Perk Coffeehouse from the show Friends, with the article saying that "the Boston iteration seeks to take inspiration from the original set all while operating a modern, fully-functional coffeehouse."

If all goes as planned, Central Perk Coffeehouse will open later this year.

The website for Central Perk--whose coffees can currently be purchased online--can be found at https://centralperk.com/

[September 21 update: According to a press release, Central Perk Coffeehouse is slated to open in the Back Bay in October.]

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

La Padrona Plans to Open at Raffles Hotels & Residences in Boston's Back Bay

A new hotel in Boston will be home to a dining spot from a well-known local restaurateur later this year.

According to an article in The Boston Globe, La Padrona is planning to open at Raffles Boston in the Back Bay, with Jody Adams (Trade, Porto, Saloniki) and her team being behind it. The upcoming restaurant will take up two floors, with a lounge on the ground floor and a dining room on the floor above, and it will feature traditional Italian fare including housemade pasta, cured meats and cheeses, and seafood dishes.

If all goes as planned, La Padrona will open in December.

The address for La Padrona (and Raffles Boston) is 40 Trinity Place, Boston, MA, 02116. The web page for the hotel is at https://www.raffles.com/boston/

[May 2, 2024 update: According to a press release, La Padrona plans to open May 15.]

[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.)

Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Sunny Side Cafe in Wilmington Is Closing

A longtime breakfast and lunch spot in the northern suburbs of Boston is closing, as its space is slated for development.

The Wilmington Apple is reporting that Sunny Side Cafe plans to shut down on June 16, with the Daily Voice posting an article about it within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page. A Facebook post from the Jefferson Road eatery says the following about the closure:

With a heavy heart I wanted to let everyone know that we will be closing our doors after 23 years in business. We need to make way for new apartments....We want to thank everyone for your business. We will miss everyone. Most have become friends/ family. Collette and Mary will be serving up breakfast at Cucina Larosa's at Wilmington Plaza in the old Panera. Hope we will still see you.

Sunny Side Cafe first opened in 2000, offering such items as bacon and eggs, pancakes, French toast, waffles, omelets, and breakfast and lunch sandwiches,

The address for Sunny Side Cafe is 2 Jefferson Road, Wilmington, MA, 01887.

[June 29 update: We have confirmation that Sunny Side Cafe is now closed, with a Facebook post indicating that it is now selling off its equipment.]

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Cornish Pasty Co. in Boston's Back Bay Has Closed

A British-style spot in the Back Bay of Boston has shut down.

According to Geoff Wong, who posted on the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook page, Cornish Pasty Co. on Mass. Ave. is no longer in business, with a Facebook post from the place showing a closed sign out front and saying "Back Bay, Boston, and greater New England- it's been a blast! The future is bright and life is short so go ballistic making the most of it!"

Cornish Pasty Co. first opened in 2016, offering a variety of meat and vegetarian/vegan pasty options along with appetizers, desserts, beer, wine, and cocktails.

The address for the now-closed Cornish Pasty Co. was 51 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115.

[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.)

Tuesday, June 13, 2023

Dave's Hot Chicken Is Opening in Framingham

A California-based chain of eateries focusing on Nashville hot chicken is looking to open another new location in the local area.

According to a source Dave's Hot Chicken is opening in Framingham, with a MetroWest Daily News article confirming this. If approved, the new outlet--which would open at the Route 30 Mall on Cochituate Road--would join others in Chelmsford, Newton, and Woburn, while another location is also in the works at South Bay in Dorchester.

The address for the new location of Dave's Hot Chicken in Framingham is 341 Cochituate Road, Framingham, MA, 01701. The website for the chain can be found at https://www.daveshotchicken.com/

[August 1 update: According to a source, Dave's Hot Chicken in Framingham 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]

Monday, June 12, 2023

Prima Is Opening in Charlestown's City Square

Last fall is was reported that a new dining spot was planning to open in Charlestown, and it appeared to have a connection to other restaurants in the local area. Now we have learned a bit more about the place.

According to a post within the jobs section of the bostonchefs.com site, Prima is opening at City Square, with the address indicating that it is moving into the former Legal Oysteria space. An earlier article here mentioned that the upcoming restaurant (which did not have a name at the time) seemed to have a connection to Monument Restaurant & Tavern which is also in Charlestown, while also having some sort of connection to the Broadway Restaurant Group, and the new job post indeed mentions that the teams behind Monument Restaurant & Tavern and Capo South Boston [the latter of which is part of BRG] are involved, while also indicating that it will be featuring "rustic Italian, housemade pasta, steaks and chops, and creative cocktails, beer, and wine."

The address for Prima is 10 City Square, Charlestown, MA, 02129. Its website is at https://www.primaboston.com/

[June 27 update: Patrick Maguire of Maguire Promotions & Hospitality Consulting posts in the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page that Prima is now open in Charlestown.]

[Earlier Article]
Broadway Restaurant Group Appears to Be Opening New Restaurant in Charlestown's City Square

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Green Papaya in Waltham Is Closing

A longtime Thai restaurant located just off Route 128 is shutting down.

An article from the Daily Voice that was posted onto the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page indicates that Green Papaya in Waltham is shutting down, with a note on the website for the Winter Street spot indicating that the owners are retiring and plan to close the restaurant after business hours on June 25. Green Papaya first opened 30 years ago in the Reservoir Plaza, offering classic Thai dishes including a number of vegetarian options.

The address for Green Papaya is 475 Winter Street, Waltham, MA, 02451. Its website can be found at https://www.greenpapayawaltham.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Sunday, June 11, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending June 11, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between June 5 and June 11, 2023.

Simply Khmer Noodle House and Bar Opens in Chelmsford
A Cambodian restaurant north of Boston has been joined by a second location not too far away.
Full Story

Kantin at Hong Kong Supermarket/Super 88 Food Court in Allston Has Closed
A food court restaurant that offered mostly Chinese fare has shut down.
Full Story

Renzo's Pizzeria Is Reborn in Swampscott
A pizza spot on the North Shore has moved to yet another new space.
Full Story

The Fat Greek in Haverhill Plans to Open New Location in Arlington
A Greek/Mediterranean restaurant in the Merrimack Valley is opening a new location a few miles northwest of Boston.
Full Story

Chilacates Plans to Open in Boston's West End
A growing local group of Mexican restaurants is opening yet another new location, and this one will be its closest to downtown Boston.
Full Story

Friday, June 09, 2023

Kiin Thai Plans to Open in the Former Similans Space in East Cambridge

A brand new Asian restaurant is on its way to Cambridge, replacing a Thai spot that closed earlier this year--and the name of the new place is the same as a dining spot that's apparently coming to the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook page, Kiin Thai is going to be opening in the former Similans space in East Cambridge, with a sign for the place including "Thai Sushi Ramen" out front at the First Street space. As reported here in February, a restaurant named Kiin may also be in the works for Stoneham, with that place possibly opening on Main Street where Thai Village had been. It is not known if the two are connected--and if the Stoneham restaurant is indeed still planning to open--so stay tuned for updates.

The Similans shut down in February after being in operation for 18 years.

The address for the upcoming Kiin Thai in East Cambridge is 145 First Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142.

[Earlier Articles]
The Similans in East Cambridge Has Closed
KIIN to Open in Stoneham

(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.)

Dave's Hot Chicken Opens in Chelmsford

A California-based chain of eateries focusing on Nashville hot chicken has opened its third location in Eastern Massachusetts.

According to a source (Aron Levy), Dave's Hot Chicken is now open in Chelmsford, moving into a space on Drum Hill Road just off Route 3. The new location of the chain joins two others locally in Newton and Woburn, while another location is also in the works at South Bay in Dorchester.

The address for the new location of Dave's Hot Chicken in Chelmsford is 40 Drum Hill Road, Chelmsford, MA, 01824. The website for the chain can be found at https://www.daveshotchicken

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Thursday, June 08, 2023

Simply Khmer Noodle House and Bar Opens in Chelmsford

A Cambodian restaurant north of Boston has been joined by a second location not too far away.

According to a post from @techghoul on Mastodon, Simply Khmer Noodle House and Bar is now open in Chelmsford, moving into a space at Summer Street Crossing off Route 4, just south of the center of town. The new dining spot joins Simply Khmer in Lowell, which has been serving traditional Cambodian fare in its Lincoln Street space for more than 15 years.

A menu for Simply Khmer Noodle House and Bar has not been seen as of yet (the restaurant soft-opened today); as soon as we find out what some of the offerings are, we will post an update here.

The address for Simply Khmer Noodle House and Bar in Chelmsford is 7 Summer Street, Chelmsford, MA, 01824. The website for the original Simply Khmer is at https://www.simplykhmer.co/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Helados Juli's in East Boston Is Expanding to Chelsea

An East Boston dessert shop known in part for its ice cream is expanding to a second location a few minutes away.

According to a source (Geoff Wong) who posted in the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Helados Juli's is planning to open a new outlet in Chelsea, moving into a space on Everett Avenue in the shopping area across from Market Basket. Once it opens, the new shop will join the original location which can be found on Brooks Street in East Boston.

The Facebook page for Helados Juli's can be found at https://www.facebook.com/HeladosJulis.

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Kantin at Hong Kong Supermarket/Super 88 Food Court in Allston Has Closed

A food court restaurant that offered mostly Chinese fare has shut down.

According to a couple of sources, Kantin at the Hong Kong Supermarket/Super 88 in Allston is no longer in business, with pictures sent from both sources showing that the space has been cleared out. It is not known why the eatery closed, nor is it known whether it might reopen in a new location.

Kantin offered such dishes as roast duck, crispy pork belly, beef stomach, fish meatball congee, spicy salted squid, pork chops in black pepper sauce, chow foon, lo mein, and more, including some Japanese items.

The address for Kantin was 1095 Commonwealth Avenue (Suite 203), Allston, MA, 02215.

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Wednesday, June 07, 2023

Renzo's Pizzeria Is Reborn in Swampscott

A pizza spot on the North Shore has moved to yet another new space.

According to an article in the Daily Voice, Renzo's Pizzeria is now open in Swampscott, having moved from the Willows in Salem. Renzo's had previously been in a space at Revere Beach, and before it closed and moved to Salem, it shared its space for awhile with Bianchi's, a longtime Revere Beach pizzeria that lost its home in 2018 and has been planning to reopen in Lynn.

The Daily Voice mentions that the new location of Renzo's includes dine-in seating along with takeout and delivery.

The address for Renzo's in Swampscott is 197 Essex Street, Swampscott, MA, 01907. Its Facebook page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/renzospizzasalem/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Tuesday, June 06, 2023

Kura Sushi Is Opening at Shoppers World in Framingham

A chain of sushi restaurants is planning to open either its second or third location in the local area, depending on the timing of the opening.

According to its website, Kura Sushi is planning to open a new outlet in Framingham, with a map within the sitecenters.com site indicating that it will be moving into a space at Shoppers World. Once it opens, the new location of the dining spot will join another at Arsenal Yards in Watertown, while one is also in the works at South Bay in Dorchester.

Kura Sushi, which started out in Japan in 1977, features conveyor belt sushi in which food items move by each table, allowing diners to choose what they want as the food goes by. The website for the chain is at https://kurasushi.com/

[June 28 update: According to a press release, Kura Sushi is now open.]

[Earlier Article]
Kura Sushi to Open at South Bay in Dorchester

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Oath Pizza Opens in Wellesley

A group of pizzerias that got its start on Nantucket Island has opened a new location in the western suburbs of Boston.

According to Kiat Cormier of the ChewOnThis Facebook group page, Oath Pizza is now open in Wellesley, moving into a space at Linden Square which is on Linden Street just outside of Wellesley Square. The new location, whose plans were first announced here early last year, joins others in Cambridge's Central Square and Somerville's Davis Square along with Chestnut Hill Square on the Newton/Brookline border. (A handful of other outlets can be found around the country, including its flagship Nantucket location.

The address for the new Oath Pizza in Wellesley is 180 Linden Street, Suite 101, Wellesley, MA, 02482. The website for the company is at https://www.oathpizza.com/

[Earlier Article]
Tatte Bakery, Oath Pizza, Karma Asian Fusion to Open at Linden Square in Wellesley

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Monday, June 05, 2023

The Fat Greek in Haverhill Plans to Open New Location in Arlington

A fast-casual Greek/Mediterranean restaurant in the Merrimack Valley is going to be opening a new location a few miles northwest of Boston.

According to a source, The Fat Greek in Haverhill is expanding to East Arlington, with a picture sent indicating that it will move into the space where ArtWear had been (across from where Lake Street meets Mass. Ave.), while our source also tells us that the plans for the dining spot were first mentioned by Your Arlington earlier in the year. Based on the Haverhill location, the new outlet in East Arlington could offer such items as gyros, souvlaki, rice bowls, spanakopita, hummus, baklava, and more.

The address for the upcoming location of The Fat Greek in East Arlington is 185 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02474. The website for the Haverhill location is at https://www.thefatgreekhaverhill.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.)

Chilacates Is Opening in Boston's West End

A growing local group of Mexican restaurants is opening yet another new location, and this one will be its closest to downtown Boston.

According to a source, Chilacates is planning to open in the city's West End, with a photo sent indicating that it will be moving into the former Viva Burrito space on Staniford Street. Once it opens, the new outlet will join other locations in Jamaica Plain (two), the South End, Mission Hill, Roslindale, South Boston, Brighton, Brookline's Coolidge Corner, and Chestnut Hill, and it looks like one other could be coming to East Cambridge as well.

The address for the new location of Chilacates in the West End is 66 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114. The website for all locations can be found at https://chilacatesmx.com/

[July 25 update: According to an Instagram post from the place, the new Chilacates in the West End is now open.]

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Sunday, June 04, 2023

Restaurant News for the Week Ending June 4, 2023

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between May 29 and June 4, 2023.

NY Bagel Factory to Open in Newtonville
A trio of bagel shops in the MetroWest area will be opening its first outlet inside Route 128.
Full Story

Blaze Pizza in Boston's Theatre District Has Closed
It looks like a group of California-based pizza restaurants has closed one of their outlets in the local area.
Full Story

Small Victories to Open in South Boston, Has Ownership Connection to The Quiet Few in East Boston
The person behind a whiskey bar will be opening a new dining and drinking spot.
Full Story

ReelHouse Oyster Bar Opens in Boston's Seaport District
A pair of seafood restaurants on the waterfront have been joined by a third location that is also on the water.
Full Story

Georgetown Cupcake in Boston's Back Bay Has Closed
A Back Bay cupcake shop with roots in the Washington, DC area has shut down.
Full Story

Please Support Our Fundraiser

Stepping away from restaurant news for a minute, some of you know that I'm helping raise funds via GoFundMe for a family member who is dealing with a health issue and is currently in a respite room at an assisted living facility as we try to figure out how--and if--he can improve enough to be able to come home again. For at least the time being, he remains in the respite room, and along with the stress of the situation in general, we also have to worry about the weight of the heavy financial burden affecting us. More information can be found at the link below, and please leave a message of support as well.

Thank you very much! -Marc

Fundraiser: Help for Leslie H's Ongoing Health Issue

Friday, June 02, 2023

Crystal Bakery Opens in Newtonville

A new bakery has come to Newton.

According to posters within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Crystal Bakery is now open in Newtonville, moving into a space where Washington Street and Walnut Street meet. A post within All Over Newton mentions that the new spot is a Chinese bakery that offers pastries, boba tea, and smoothies while its website mentions that the bakery business itself was actually established in 2016.

The address for Crystal Bakery is 829 Washington Street, Newtonville, MA, 02460. Its website can be found at https://crystalbakery520.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

Taste of the Himalayas Opens in Tewksbury

A new restaurant that features Nepali, Indian, and Tibetan cuisine has opened in the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Taste of the Himalayas is now open in Tewksbury, moving into the space on Main Street that had been home to Saffron Indian Grill. Based on its social media, it appears that this is a rebranding under the same ownership, as one of its posts says that "We've reopened as Taste of the Himalayas."

The menu for Taste of the Himalayas includes such items as naan, mo:mo, goat curry, chicken tandoori, lamb biryani, tofu chili, and more.

The address for Taste of the Himalayas is 1921 Main Street, Tewksbury, MA, 01876. Its website can be found at https://www.tastehimalayas.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, June 01, 2023

Wegmans in Natick Is Closing

A chain of supermarkets based in Rochester, NY, that has opened six stores in Eastern Massachusetts over the past decade is closing one of its locations in the region.

According to a post from Kiat Cormier of the ChewOnThis Facebook group page, Wegmans in Natick is shutting down later this summer, with a press release from the company quoting Brien MacKendrick (human resources director, Wegmans New England division) as saying the following:

Making these decisions is never easy. However, we do it for the long-term benefit of our people, our customers, and our communities....Unfortunately, with this non-traditional location we are unable to attract enough customers for our business model to work....We love our Natick community and customers, and we're eager to pursue new store locations in the area for the future,

The Natick location of the supermarket first opened in the Natick Mall in 2018, and it included some dining options within its space including a now-closed full-service Mexican restaurant called Blue Dalia. (Other locations of Wegmans remain open in Burlington, Chestnut Hill, Medford, Northborough, and Westwood.)

The website for Wegmans is at https://www.wegmans.com/

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

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

[More restaurant openings/closings from the Boston's Hidden Restaurants site): List of Restaurant Closings and Openings in the Boston Area]

NY Bagel Factory Plans to Open a New Location in Newtonville

A trio of bagel shops in the MetroWest area will be opening its first outlet inside Route 128.

According to Kiat Cormier of the ChewOnThis Facebook group page, NY Bagel Factory is planning to open in Newtonville, with another poster mentioning that it will apparently be moving into a space in the Trio luxury apartment building on Washington Street. Once it opens, the new outlet will join others in Framingham and Southboro (two), and based on those locations, it could be offering bagels, coffee, sandwiches, and more.

The address for the upcoming location of NY Bagel Factory in Newtonville is 839 Washington Street, Newtonville, MA, 02460. The website for all locations is at https://thenybagelfactory.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.)