Boston Restaurant Talk: March 2024

Sunday, March 31, 2024

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 31

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between March 25 and March 31.

Kyuramen, Which Is Planning to Open in Brookline, Is Also Looking to Open in Winchester
A growing chain of ramen restaurants based in New York City is apparently opening not one, but two locations in the Greater Boston area, including one on its way to a space in the northern suburbs.
Full Story

Cafe Gelato in Quincy to Become Sapori
A cafe known in part for its artisan is getting a new name, apparently to reflect its expanded concept.
Full Story

The James Pub & Provisions in Needham Is Opening a Second Location in Essex
A casual upscale pub in the western suburbs of Boston will soon be joined by another location, with this one being on the North Shore.
Full Story

Coje Management Group to Open Mr. H in Boston's Seaport District
A local restaurant group is going to be opening a new dining spot by the Boston waterfront.
Full Story

All Locations of Grainmaker Have Apparently Closed
A trio of dining spots featuring Southeast Asian street food appear to have shut down permanently.
Full Story

[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.)

Friday, March 29, 2024

Pikalo in Cambridge Has Apparently Closed

The Cambridge location of a local group of dining spots known for their empanadas appears to have closed down.

According to a couple of posters within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Pikalo on Harvard Street is no longer in business, having only lasted since September of last year. A check on the website for the business shows that the Cambridge outlet is indeed no longer listed, though other locations in Jamaica Plain, East Boston, Lawrence (2), and Lowell still show up on the site.

Pikalo had taken over the space where Izzy's, a beloved dining spot in Cambridge that specialized in Puerto Rican fare, was for 40 years.

The address for the now-closed location of Pikalo in Cambridge was 169 Harvard Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. The website for the other locations is at https://pikalo-empanadas.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.)

Cacao Is Opening in Boston's South End

A chocolate shop in Newton Highlands will soon be joined by another outlet, with this one being in Boston.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Cacao is planning to open a location in the South End, moving into a space on Columbus Avenue just east of the Mass. Ave. intersection. The post mentions that the upcoming store plans to be open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and will have both indoor and outdoor seating.

Another location of Cacao had been in Jamaica Plain until it closed at the end of 2022.

The address for the new location of Cacao in the South End is 570 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118. The website for the business is at https://cacaonuts.com/

[May 29 update: According to its website, the South End location of Cacao is now open.]

[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, March 28, 2024

Hill Kitchen May Be Opening in Boston's Beacon Hill Neighborhood

A new restaurant could be on its way to the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston, and it would be taking over the space where an outdoor equipment store had been--and it appears that the dining spot may be under the same ownership as that of the now-closed shop.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the city's website, Hill Kitchen is planning to open on Charles Street, with the address indicating that it would take over the former North River Outfitter Sport space. The notice mentions that the restaurant would have seating for 47 and hopes to acquire a beer and wine license, and that the manager would be Jason Indelicato who was behind the outdoor shop. No other information has been given about the dining spot, but more should be known by later next week, as the hearing is slated for April 3.

The address for the proposed Hill Kitchen is 39 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114.

[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.)

Kyuramen, Which Is Planning to Open in Brookline, Is Also Looking to Open in Winchester

A growing chain of ramen restaurants based in New York City is apparently opening not one, but two locations in the Greater Boston area, including one on its way to a space in the northern suburbs.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Kyuramen is planning to open in Winchester, which will either be its first or second location in the Greater Boston area depending on whether an upcoming outlet in Brookline opens before or after it. The chain, which started out in 2014, is headquartered in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens and is known for its variety of ramen options.

The website for Kyuramen can be found at https://www.kyuramen.com/

[Earlier Articles]
Six New Dining Spots Are Coming to Gateway Brookline Development
Kyuramen Plans to Open in Brookline

[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.)

Cafe Gelato in Quincy Is Becoming Sapori

A cafe known in part for its artisan is getting a new name, apparently to reflect its expanded concept.

According to a source, Cafe Gelato in Quincy is becoming Sapori, with a Reddit post indicating that the name change may be happening to reflect the fact that the cafe is looking to become more of an Italian restaurant. Currently, Cafe Gelato offers such items as salads, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, coffee, beer, wine, and cocktails in addition to gelato, as they have added to their offerings since opening in 2017.

The address for Cafe Gelato (and the upcoming Sapori) is 17 Chestnut Street, Quincy, MA, 02169. Its website can be found at https://www.italiancafegelato.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/italiancafegelato/

[May 3 update: According to a note via Google, Sapori debuts today.]

[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, March 27, 2024

Boston Halal at Faneuil Hall Is Opening New Locations in Boston and Somerville

It looks like a dining spot in downtown Boston that features NYC-style street food may be opening at least two new locations.

Based on multiple social media posts, Boston Halal at Faneuil Hall is planning to open shops in the former Starbucks location on Huntington Avenue near Northeastern University and in the former Grainmaker space on Elm Street in Somerville. Based on the original location, expect the new outlets to feature Indian-Mediterranean fare including a variety of bowls and wraps.

The website for Boston Halal is at https://bostonhalal.co/

[May 7 update: A post within the Davis Square Facebook group page indicates that the Somerville location of Boston Halal is now open.]

[June 6 update: According to a source, the Northeastern location of Boston Halal is now open.]

[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, March 26, 2024

From Scratch Opens in the Former Fiorella's Express/Trattoria Space in Brighton

A new Italian dining spot has opened in Brighton, taking over the space where a location of another Italian eatery had been.

According to its social media pages along with an email from a source, From Scratch is now open in Oak Square, moving into the space on Tremont Street that had been home to Fiorella's Express/Trattoria until it closed last fall. Based on a City of Boston agenda page, it appears that the place is being run by Gentjan Ikonomi who is also behind Gent Catering, and the social media for the restaurant indicates that some of the offerings include bruschetta, panini, calamari, pizza, calzones, risotto, pasta dishes, tiramisu, and more.

The address for From Scratch is 2 Tremont Street, Brighton, MA, 02135. Its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556804999915 while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/from_scratch_g

[Earlier Article]
Fiorella's Express/Trattoria in Brighton Is Closing

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

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

The James Pub & Provisions in Needham Is Opening a Second Location in Essex

A casual upscale pub in the western suburbs of Boston will soon be joined by another location, with this one being on the North Shore.

According to its website, The James Pub & Provisions in Needham is planning to open a second outlet in Essex this spring, with the address indicating that it will be moving into the space on Main Street that had been home to the Village Restaurant for nearly 70 years until closing down last September. Based on the Needham location (which is located on Great Plain Avenue), expect the new one in Essex to feature modern takes on comfort food, including dishes with Irish influences.

The James first opened in Needham in 2018, taking over the space where The Center Cafe had once been.

The address for the new location of The James Pub & Provisions in Essex is 55 Main Street, Essex, MA, 01929. The website for the pub is at https://www.thejamespub.com/

[May 9 update: According to its website, the Essex location of The James Pub & Provisions is now open.]

[Earlier Article]
The Village Restaurant in Essex Is Closing

[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.)

Monday, March 25, 2024

Coje Management Group to Open Mr. H in Boston's Seaport District

A local restaurant group is going to be opening a new dining spot by the Boston waterfront.

According to an email, Coje Management Group is planning to open Mr. H in the Seaport District, moving into the space on Northern Avenue that had been home to Legal Test Kitchen. The upcoming spot is going to be a modern Chinese restaurant that offers Taiwanese fare in addition to Chinese dishes, and it will apparently have the feel of a Shanghainese cocktail lounge, while the sole Instagram post from the dining spot simply mentions "The Year of the Dumpling. Mr. H coming this Spring." We have been told that more information on Mr. H will soon be on the way, including specifics on food, drink, and design, so stay tuned for updates.

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

The address for the upcoming Mr. H is 225 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210. Its website will be at https://mrhchinese.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.)

All Locations of Grainmaker Have Apparently Closed

A trio of dining spots featuring Southeast Asian street food appear to have shut down permanently.

According to a source, locations of Grainmaker in Boston's Downtown Crossing, Somerville's Davis Square, and Woburn Village are no longer in business, with a check on their website and social media pages indicating that they have all been taken down. The three restaurants were known in part for their focus on gluten-free and dairy-free items, offering such options as poke bowls, dumplings, grain bowls, street tacos, smoothies, and more.

The first location of Grainmaker debuted in Downtown Crossing in 2017, with the Somerville outlet opening in 2019 and the Woburn location opening in 2022.

[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.)

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 24

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between March 18 and March 24.

Friendly's at Logan Airport in East Boston Has Closed
The sole remaining location of a regional chain of restaurants and ice cream shops inside Route 128 has shut down.
Full Story

Lyrik Back Bay Development to Include at Least Four Dining Spots
A new development that will include a public plaza over the Mass. Pike will also be home to at least four places for food and drink.
Full Story

Frank at Assembly Row in Somerville Has Closed
A bit more than a half year after its original location in Beverly shut down, a Somerville restaurant is now closed as well.
Full Story

Lendy's Deli in Saugus Has Closed
A North Shore deli that has been in business for nearly 40 years has shut down.
Full Story

American Flatbread in Salem Has Closed
A location of a group of restaurants that focus on flatbread pizza has shuttered.
Full Story

[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.)

Friday, March 22, 2024

Flake Bakery to Open in Brookline

A new bakery that features a popular Portuguese dessert item is on its way to Brookline.

According to a poster (Geoff Wong) within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Flake Bakery is planning to open sometime this spring on Beacon Street in the Coolidge Corner section of town. The Instagram page for the upcoming shop indicates that it will offer freshly baked handmade Portuguese Pasteis de Nata, which are custard tarts made with puff pastry filled with a sweet baked custard.

The address for the upcoming Flake is 1298 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, 02446. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/flakebakeryboston

[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.)

Friendly's at Logan Airport in East Boston Has Closed

The sole remaining location of a regional chain of restaurants and ice cream shops inside Route 128 has shut down.

According to a source along with a Boston Globe article, Friendly's at Logan Airport in East Boston is no longer in business, with this being the last outlet within the Boston city limits and the closest remaining Friendly's to the city being in Norwood, Peabody, and Weymouth. The only standalone location inside Route 128 closed in the fall of 2019, with that one being in Stoneham.

Friendly's, which is headquartered in Wilbraham, was first established in Springfield in 1935. The website for the company can be found at https://www.friendlysrestaurants.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.)

Lyrik Back Bay Development to Include at Least Four Dining Spots

A new development that will include a public plaza over the Mass. Pike will also be home to at least four places for food and drink.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Lyrik Back Bay is currently in the works by Mass. Ave. and Newbury Street and its retail tenants will include ChiCha San Chen, a chain of bubble tea spots whose roots are in Taiwan and which hopes to open this fall; Avra Estiatorio, an upscale Greek restaurant with outlets in New York City, Miami, and Los Angeles and that plans to open next spring; a cafe from George Howell Coffee, which has other cafes in Downtown Boston and Newtonville; and Pink Carrot, a North End cafe that focuses on healthy fare. (It is not yet known when George Howell and Pink Carrot might open.) The post states that Developer Samuel & Associates mentions 65% of the retail space for Lyrik Back Bay has been leased so far, so it's possible that other dining spots could be on the way as well; the complex will also include a CitizenM Hotel along with office and life science space.

More information on Lyrik Back Bay can be found at https://www.ofplace.com/lyrik

[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, March 21, 2024

Few and Far Is Opening in the Former Isabella/Cafe Tremezzo Space in Dedham

The people behind a neighborhood bistro in Cambridge are opening a new dining spot, with this one being in the southwest suburbs of Boston.

According to its Instagram page and an earlier article from the bostonchefs.com site, Few and Far is planning to open in Dedham, moving into the space on High Street in Dedham Square that had been home to Caffe Tremezzo, and before that, Isabella. The bostonchefs.com site mentions that Stan Hilbert, who is the owner of Forage, and chef Eric Cooper are looking to open the new spot in the spring, and it will be a farm-to-table restaurant with locally-sourced seasonal fare along with local beers, natural wines, and craft cocktails.

The address for Few and Far is 566 High Street, Dedham, MA, 02026. Its website will be at https://fewandfardedham.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/fewandfardedham/

[May 1 update: An Instagram post from the place indicates that Few and Far has opened.]

[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 Opens in East Cambridge

A growing local group of Mexican restaurants has opened a new outlet in Cambridge a bit more than a year after it was first announced.

Based on a Bluesky post from troysch1.bsky.social and a check on the Toast site, Chilacates is now open in East Cambridge, moving into the space on Cambridge Street that had been home to East Side Bar and Grille. The new location was just added to the website for the restaurant, and there was indeed an "open" sign out front earlier this week, according to troysch1.bsky.social.

The new outlet of Chilacates joins others in Cambridge's Central Square, Jamaica Plain (two), Boston's West End, the South End, Mission Hill, Roslindale, South Boston, Brighton, Brookline's Coolidge Corner, and Chestnut Hill.

The address for the new location of Chilacates in East Cambridge is 561 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA, 02141. The website for all locations is at https://chilacatesmx.com/

[Earlier Article]
Chilacates Is Apparently Opening in the Former East Side Bar and Grille Space in East Cambridge

[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, March 20, 2024

Frank at Assembly Row in Somerville Has Closed

A bit more than a half year after its original location in Beverly shut down, a Somerville restaurant is now closed as well.

According to a message sent to us from the place, Frank at Assembly Row is no longer in business, with the message coming after a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page mentioned its closing--and a check on the Assembly Row website showed that it had been removed from the site. The Somerville outlet of Frank first opened last November, a few months after the Beverly location shuttered; both restaurants had been opened by Frank McClelland, who ran L'Espalier in Boston's Back Bay until it closed in 2018.

The address for the now-closed location of Frank in Somerville was 400 Assembly Row, Somerville, MA 02145.

[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.)

Knead Bakery and Bistro Opens in Scituate

A new dining spot has come to the South Shore, and the winner of a popular Food Network competition is behind the place.

According to a press release, Knead Bakery and Bistro is now open in Scituate, moving into a space on Front Street in the downtown area along Scituate Harbor. The new place offers such options as pastries, breads and toasts, salads, sandwiches, smoothie bowls, coffee, tea, and more, including grab-and-go items.

Knead Bakery and Bistro is run by Victoria Donnelly, who was the winner of "Cupcake Wars" in 2010 and had also been behind Cakeology, which started as a mobile cupcake delivery service that year before becoming a brick-and-mortar shop in downtown Boston until closing a few years later.

The address for Knead Bakery and Bistro is 133 Front Street, Scituate, MA, 02066. Its website can be found at https://www.kneadkitchen.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.)

Lendy's Deli in Saugus Has Apparently Closed

It looks like a North Shore deli that has been in business for nearly 40 years has shut down.

According to a source, Lendy's Deli in Saugus is no longer in operation, with a phone call placed to the Route 1 spot indicating that its phone appears to no longer be working. Our source had tagged us on a page within the North Shore Dining Facebook group that says "Lendy's in Saugus is now closed. Sources tell me that Lendy's Deli in Saugus is closing for good this week," though the website for the restaurant gives no indication that it has shuttered; a Google search does show it listed as being "permanently closed," however.

Lendy's first opened in 1985, offering an array of deli items including matzo ball soup, corned beef, liverwurst, and pastrami sandwiches, a lox platter, meat knishes, sweet kugel, and cheesecake.

The address for Lendy's Deli was 653 Broadway (Route 1), Saugus, MA, 01906. Its website is at http://www.lendysdeli.com/

[March 23 update: A Facebook post from the place confirms that Lendy's has indeed closed permanently.]

[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, March 19, 2024

American Flatbread in Salem Has Closed

A location of a group of restaurants that focus on flatbread pizza has shut down.

According to multiple sources (including a few within the restaurant industry), American Flatbread in Salem is no longer in business, with a call placed to the Derby Street spot indicating that the voicemail box was full. It is not known if this is the only location to close (the website for the company continues to show the Salem outlet); as soon as we find out more--including why the restaurant shut down--we will post an update here.

In the fall of 2021, American Flatbread replaced Flatbread Company in Salem, with the same changeover taking place with other Flatbread Company locations in Brighton, Somerville, and Georgetown. A local outlet of Flatbread Company remains open in Amesbury.

The address for the now-closed American Flatbread in Salem was 311 Derby Street, Salem, MA, 01970. The website for all locations is at https://americanflatbread.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.)

Ballast Kitchen & Bar Opens within the Common Market Restaurants Complex in Quincy

A brand new upscale tavern is in the process of opening within a restaurant complex just off the Southeast Expressway.

An email sent to us indicates that Ballast Kitchen & Bar has soft-opened at the Common Market Restaurants on Willard Street, taking over the space that had been home to the Chowder House. We have been told that the space has gone through renovations and that the new dining and drinking spot gives a nod toward its historic location along the Granite Railway. The menu for the place includes such items as wings, grilled octopus, blistered shishito peppers, Duxbury oysters, tuna poke bowls, burgers, chili glazed salmon, braised short ribs, steak frites, and roasted chicken, along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

In addition to Ballast Kitchen & Bar, Common Market Restaurants also includes Darcy's Pub, The Cafe at the Common Market, and the Common Market food court.

The address for Ballast Kitchen & Bar is 110 Willard Street, Quincy, MA, 02169. The website for all dining spots at the Common Market Restaurants complex is at https://commonmarketrestaurants.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.)

Masons Steak House to Open in Quincy

A new restaurant is on its way to Quincy, moving into a space that had been home to a Masonic Temple until it was destroyed in a fire.

According to a source, Masons Steak House is planning to open on Hancock Street in the downtown area of the city, with a Patriot Ledger article saying it will be an Italian restaurant that is run by restaurateur Jimmy Liang of the JP Fuji Group (the new place will not be part of that group). The article mentions that the dining spot will be about 12,000 square feet in size with seating for 275 to 300 people, and it will include a dining room and a bar on the first floor and a bar and function rooms on the second floor (which will also have a two-sided fireplace). If all goes as planned, Masons Steak House will open sometime this fall.

The Masonic Temple, which was constructed in 1926, was gutted in a four-alarm blaze in September of 2013; there was subsequent talk of a restaurant coming to the space in 2018, though details were few at that point in time.

[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.)

Monday, March 18, 2024

Hannah's Brewing Co. Opens in Melrose

A new brewery and taproom has very quietly opened in the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to its Instagram page, Hannah's Brewing Co. is now open in Melrose, moving into a space on Main Street toward the southern edge of the downtown area. Posters within the Instagram page indicate that the beers initially offered include an ale, Irish stout, American amber, hazy IPA, west coast DIPA, and Belgian pale ale. Their website is currently not fully functional, so little information on the place is known at this point in time (check back for updates as they come in).

The address for Hannah's Brewing Co. is 364 Main Street, Melrose, MA, 02176. Its website will be at https://www.hannahsbrewingco.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/hannahsbrewingco/

[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.)

Graffiti Pizza and Street Food Opens in Allston

A new option for pizza and more has come to Allston.

According to a source, Graffiti Pizza and Street Food is now open in Allston, moving into a space on Harvard Avenue a short distance south of the Brighton Avenue intersection. The new spot, which is takeout/delivery only, features what its menu says is "rectangular, thin crust, Rome style" while also offering, subs, wraps, and pasta dishes.

The address for Graffiti Pizza and Street Food is 136 Harvard Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134. Its website can be found at https://www.graffitistreetfood.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.)

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 17

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between March 11 and March 17.

Amelia's Taqueria to Replace Sabroso Taqueria at Assembly Row
A local group of Mexican restaurants will be expanding to a growing development in Somerville, moving into the space where another Mexican eatery had been.
Full Story

Blondie's Barbeque Plans to Replace the Red Wing Diner in Walpole
A landmark suburban diner is being replaced by a new restaurant.
Full Story

Kouzina Estiatorio in Dedham Has Closed
A Greek restaurant just southwest of Boston has shut down.
Full Story

Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co. Opens New Location in Boston's Fenway
A local brewery has opened a second location, a year after the plans were first announced.
Full Story

Precinct Kitchen + Bar in Boston's Back Bay Has Closed; New Concept Replacing It
A hotel restaurant in the Back Bay has shut down, though its space will apparently not be empty for long.
Full Story

[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.)

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Ivory Pearl in Brookline's Washington Square Is Closing

A seafood restaurant and cocktail bar in Brookline that has an award-winning mixologist and restaurateur behind it is shutting down.

According to multiple sources, Ivory Pearl in Washington Square is getting ready to close its doors, with a Facebook post from the Beacon Street spot saying the following:

We want to express our heartfelt thanks to our loyal guests, incredible staff, and the welcoming community for their unwavering support of our 42-seat restaurant. In an ever-changing restaurant landscape, facing challenges such as rising costs, the need for adaptation is clear. We are truly proud of the space we've created here in Washington Square. As we approach March 31st, the final service day for Ivory Pearl, We invite you to join us in the coming two weeks to celebrate everything that Ivory Pearl has represented. Let’s enjoy these moments together as we prepare for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Ran Duan (Sichuan Garden/Baldwin Bar in Woburn, Sichuan Garden/Blossom Bar in Brookline Village, Birds of Paradise in Brighton) first opened Ivory Pearl in the summer of 2020, replacing Grassona's.

The address for Ivory Pearl is 1704 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, 02445. Its website is at https://www.ivorypearlbar.com/

[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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Friday, March 15, 2024

Simco's in Mattapan Facing Possible Seizure by the State

A landmark hot dog place is facing an uncertain future due to nonpayment of taxes.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Simco's in Mattapan is staring at a possible seizure by the state, as the Blue Hill Avenue spot has debts of $736,000 in taxes and interest, and only $20,000 has been paid, resulting in the Department of Revenue making a court request to enter the premises for the purpose of seizing the business and selling/disposing of the property. The dining spot, which has been in business since the 1930s, is known mostly for its hot dogs while also offering soups, salads, subs, pizza, calzones, and more.

The address for Simco's is 1509 Blue Hill Avenue, Mattapan, MA, 02126.

[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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Amelia's Taqueria Is Replacing Sabroso Taqueria at Assembly Row in Somerville

A local group of Mexican restaurants will be expanding to a growing development in Somerville, moving into the space where another Mexican eatery had been.

According to a page within the Assembly Row website, Amelia's Taqueria will be opening in the former Sabroso Taqueria space on Revolution Drive, confirming part of what a source had told us, that Sabroso was no longer in business there. Once it opens, the new location of Amelia's will join others by Northeastern University, Berklee College, Boston University, and Boston College, while two locations of Sabroso remain open in downtown Boston.

The address for the new outlet of Amelia's Taqueria at Assembly Row is 475 Revolution Drive, Somerville, MA, 02145. The website for all locations of Amelia's is at https://www.ameliastaqueria.com/

[April 29 update: According to a press release, the Assembly Row location of Amelia's Taqueria is now open.]

[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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Cheryl-Anns' Bakery in South Brookline Reopens After Being Closed Since 2021 Due to a Fire

A Kosher and Pareve bakery that has been closed for more than two years due to a fire has returned.

According to multiple sources (including Universal Hub), Cheryl-Anns' Bakery in South Brookline opens back up today with a Facebook post from the place on Wednesday saying "What just happened, you asked ? Cheryl-Ann's' got approved to open this Friday morning March 15th !!!…lots of happy tears over here….come See us …open at 7am." The bakery, which is located on the West Roxbury Parkway, was hit by a blaze in December of 2021, and has been closed ever since; the shop is known for such items as challah bread, babka, cakes, cookies, and more.

The address for Cheryl-Anns' Bakery is 1010 West Roxbury Parkway, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467. Its website can be found at https://cherylannsbakery.com/

[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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Thursday, March 14, 2024

Blondie's Barbeque Plans to Replace the Red Wing Diner in Walpole

Several months ago, it was reported than a landmark diner appeared to have temporarily closed, with a subsequent report indicating that its space was up for sale. Now we have learned that a new restaurant is moving in.

According to a source, Blondie's Barbeque is looking to open in the Walpole space where the Red Wing Diner had been, with Peter and Patricia Crowley of Café G at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston being behind the plans. A Patriot Ledger article mentions that the sale is still pending, though it will likely happen around the end of the month, and the Crowleys plan to redesign the space including replacing the bar area with an ordering counter where customers would place their orders and then find a table and wait for their food.

The Red Wing Diner had been around since the early 1930s, serving such items as fried clams, bar pizza, burgers, and wings, along with beer, wine, and mixed drinks.

The address for the proposed Blondie's Barbeque (and former Red Wing Diner) is 2235 Providence Highway (Route 1), Walpole, MA, 02081.

[Earlier Article]
Red Wing Diner in Walpole Is Temporarily Closed

[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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Fresh Noodle Allston Opens at the Hong Kong Supermarket/Super 88 Food Court

A new spot that features noodle dishes typically found in the northwest part of China has come to a popular food court in Boston.

According to a couple of sources, Fresh Noodle Allston is now open within the Hong Kong Supermarket/Super 88, with a note from the people behind the place saying (via Google) that "we serve Lanzhou beef noodle soup and mochi noodle soup with a lot of delicious dishes our noodle soups are authentic and noodles are always fresh..." Some of the noodle soups offered at the new eatery include beef, chicken leg, lamb, shrimp, and a spicy soup, and the menu also includes other items such as honey garlic chicken with rice, beef with broccoli, spicy goat with rice, and eggplant with beef and rice.

The address for Fresh Noodle Allston is 1 Brighton Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134.

[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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Matria and Bar Fellini Are Opening at InterContinental Boston, Replacing Miel and RumBa Bar; Loyall Counting Room Also Opening

A couple of new dining and drinking concepts are on their way to a hotel on the Boston waterfront.

According to a press release, Matria and Bar Fellini will soon be opening at InterContinental Boston, with the former replacing Miel and and the latter replacing RumBa Bar. The release mentions that Matria will be an Italian steakhouse located on the main level of the hotel that will feature an extensive wine list, while Bar Fellini will be adjacent to Matria and will include a main and private dining area while featuring a variety of cocktails (an outdoor patio overlooking Fort Point Channel will also be set up during the warmer months).

If all goes as planned, both Matria and Bar Fellini will open in the summer.

The address for Matria and Bar Fellini (and InterContinental Boston) is 510 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210. The web page for the hotel is at https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/us/en/boston/bosha/hoteldetail

[May 24 update: According to the hotel website, a third new spot is coming to InterContinental Boston this summer--Loyall Counting Room, which is described as a "secret den – a modern-day tribute to the parlors the revolutionaries would have frequented to examine the status quo and have a hearty laugh together," with its cocktail menu "highlighting the rich folklore and history of the colonial era."]

[June 7 update: A new press release mentions that Matria, Bar Fellini, and Loyall Counting Room are all slated to open on June 25.]

[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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Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Kouzina Estiatorio in Dedham Has Closed

A Greek restaurant just southwest of Boston has shut down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Kouzina Estiatorio in Dedham has closed, with a Facebook post from the High Street spot saying the following:

We have been blessed to serve our community for the past 16+ years. We have made a lot of great connections, memories and friends along the way through good times and bad. Unfortunately, right now, we have to step away to take care of our health and well being as well as that of our families. Thank you all for your years of support and encouragement. With much love, The Sountoulidis Family

Kouzina Estiatorio was a popular place for takeout, though it did have a few tables for dining in; the menu offered such items as avgolemono soup, souvlaki, spanakopita, stuffed grape leaves, pastitsio, gyros, burgers, and baklava.

The address for Kouzina Estiatorio was 557 High Street, Dedham, MA, 02026.

[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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Taco John's to Open in Downtown Boston

A chain of quick-service Mexican restaurants whose roots are out west will be expanding further into the local area, with a new one coming to the heart of Boston.

According to a post from @mat.tl within the Bluesky site, Taco John's is planning to open on the eastern edge of Downtown Crossing, with a notice within the city's website indicating that it will be moving into a space on Summer Street that had been home to hair salon. Once it opens, the new outlet will join others in Lawrence and Leominster, along with more than 350 others across the country, and it will likely offer such items as tacos, nachos, quesadillas, burritos, refried beans, and Potato Olés (fried potato nuggets with spices and sauce options).

Taco John's first started out as a taco stand in Cheyenne, WY, back in 1969.

It appears that the address for the upcoming location of Taco John's in downtown Boston is 75 Summer Street, Boston, MA, 02110. The website for the chain is at https://tacojohns.com/

[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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Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co. Opens New Location in Boston's Fenway on March 14

A local brewery is getting ready to open a second location a year after it was first announced.

According to a source, Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co. is slated to open its Fenway outlet on Thursday, March 14 at 5:00 PM, with an Instagram post from the business saying the following:

We have been working on this since January 2022 when we first saw the space, and it has proven to be a very challenging and fun project....In addition to our full line up of beers, hard seltzers (NEW!), and hard smoothies (NEW!), we have a full kitchen with brick oven pizza, salads, tacos, and more. And starting this Friday, we will be opening the taproom every morning at 6:00am with our coffee shop that will offer a full range of coffee styles, pastries, and bagels.

Once it opens, the new location will join the original in Waltham, which first opened on Waverley Oaks Road in 2018.

The address for the new location on Mighty Squirrel in the Fenway is 1 David Ortiz Drive, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for the business is at https://www.mightysquirrel.com/

[Earlier Article]
Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co. to Expand to New Location in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

[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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Fish Taco Is Opening in the Former Suasday Space in Boston's North End

A pop-up business that features street tacos is opening a brick-and-mortar spot in the North End of Boston, replacing a Cambodian eatery that had a connection to the group that's behind the pop-up.

According to a source, Fish Taco is planning to open on Hanover Street in the former Suasday space, with a sign for the place now being up at the storefront. Fish Taco has been offering food within Cloud & Spirits, a Cambridge restaurant that is part of Blackfin Collective which also operates such spots as Love Art Sushi, Love Art Udon, and Poke by Love Art; the brands they oversee also included Suasday, until the family behind it closed the place down a few months ago due to a death in the family that necessitated their going overseas.

The address for the brick-and-mortar location of Fish Taco is 227 Hanover Street, Boston, MA, 02113. Its website can be found at https://fishtacotaco.com/

[March 29 update: According to a press release, Fish Taco plans to have a grand opening on April 20, and it will focus on a "surf and turf" concept in which half the offerings are seafood-based and the other half are meat-based, while the menu will also include rice and salad bowls, sides, and house-made drinks.]

[Earlier Article]
Suasday in Boston's North End 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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Monday, March 11, 2024

The Plate in Milton Is Closing

A breakfast and lunch spot in Milton is closing its doors.

According to a source, The Plate in East Milton Square is getting ready to shut down permanently, with a Facebook post from the place (which is located above the Fruit Center Marketplace) saying the following:

After twelve years of serving Milton and the surrounding communities, first at our original Central Ave location and for the past eight years above the Milton Fruit Center, the plate will be closing. While we hoped to extend our lease, fortune was simply not on our side. Our last day of service will be in spring 2024. Come help us bid a fond farewell to our home away from home. To the Milton community, your unwavering support has been the backbone of our success. We are truly grateful for the memories we’ve created together and the moments you’ve shared with us. Please come and help us close this chapter with love and nostalgia for our last few months of service. We hope to see familiar faces as we say goodbye.

In 2016, The Plate took over the space where Marketplace Cafe had been (and before that, A Lighter Fare); the dining spot has been known for such options as fried egg sandwiches, breakfast burritos, griddle cakes, nutella banana toast, BLTs, chicken sandwiches, and grilled cheese.

The address for The Plate is 10 Bassett Street, Milton, MA, 02186. Its website can be found at https://theplatekitchen.com/

[May 30 update: The Instagram page for the place indicates that The Plate is now closed.]

[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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Precinct Kitchen + Bar in Boston's Back Bay Has Closed; New Concept Replacing It

A hotel restaurant in the Back Bay of Boston has shut down, though its space will apparently not be empty for long.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Precinct Kitchen + Bar within the Hotel AKA Back Bay is no longer in business, with a note within the restaurant's website saying that it "has closed to make way for an exciting new culinary concept opening this spring" while the hotel's website mentions a "new indoor/outdoor French bistro dining concept." Precinct first opened in 2014 in the former Cuffs space within what had been Loews Hotel at the time.

The address for the now-closed Precinct Kitchen + Bar (and upcoming French restaurant) is 154 Berkeley Street, Boston MA, 02116. The website for Precinct was at https://www.precinctkitchenandbar.com/ while the website for Hotel AKA Back Bay is at https://www.stayaka.com/locations/boston

[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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Sunday, March 10, 2024

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 10

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between March 4 and March 10.

Pescador in Boston's Kenmore Square Is Closing
One of a trio of Boston dining spots from a restaurant group based in New York City is shutting down.
Full Story

XOXO Sushi Bar Opens in Chestnut Hill
A new upscale Japanese restaurant has debuted a few miles west of Boston.
Full Story

MonteVerdi to Open at The Royal Sonesta in Cambridge
A new Italian dining spot is on its way to a riverside space in Cambridge, and a well-known local restaurateur is behind it.
Full Story

The Babe Opens in Salem
A new bar has come to the North Shore after being in the works for more than a year, moving into the space where a longtime drinking spot had once been.
Full Story

Taffer's Tavern at Arsenal Yards in Watertown Has Closed
A franchise-owned restaurant just west of Boston that was created by the host of a reality show has shut down.
Full Story

[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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Friday, March 08, 2024

Pescador in Boston's Kenmore Square Is Closing

One of a trio of Boston dining spots from a restaurant group based in New York City is shutting down.

According to a source, Pescador in Kenmore Square is closing its doors, with an article from Boston Magazine saying that the place--which resides in the Hotel Commonwealth--plans to shutter on March 11. Blue Ribbon Restaurants also runs Blue Ribbon Sushi and Blue Ribbon Brasserie, both of which are in the hotel, and those two spots will remain in operation, though it isn't yet known what might take over the Pescador space, if anything.

Pescador, which focused on seafood with global influences, first opened in the fall of 2022, taking over the space where a location of Island Creek Oyster Bar had been.

The address for Pescador is 498 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215.

[March 14 update: A note on its website confirms that Pescador is now closed.]

[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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XOXO Sushi Bar Opens in Chestnut Hill

A year and a half ago, it was reported that a new upscale Japanese restaurant was planning to open a few miles west of Boston, and now we have learned that it has debuted.

According to a press release, XOXO Sushi Bar is now open, with the Boylston Street spot being a izakaya (basically a Japanese-style pub) featuring multi-course omakase-style presentations as well as sushi a la carte and robatayaki along with beer, wine, sakes, and cocktails. The restaurant will be open for dinner service and it will also have a late-night menu as well that includes handrolls and hot bites.

The address for XOXO Sushi Bar is 1154 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02467. Its website can be found at https://www.xoxosushi.com/

[Earlier Article]
XOXO Sushi Bar Plans to Open in Chestnut Hill

[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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Thursday, March 07, 2024

Vivi's Tapas Bar Is Opening in the Former Cut21 Space at Revere Beach

A new restaurant is on its way to an historic seaside area a few miles north of Boston, and it will be replacing another dining spot that was under the same ownership.

According to a post within the bostonchefs.com site, Vivi's Tapas Bar is getting ready to open at Revere Beach, moving into the former Cut21 space within the Ryder apartment complex. The upcoming restaurant will be operated by Aldi Companies and restaurateur Michael Aldi, joining Dryft and Fine Line (both of which are also located at Revere Beach), with bostonchefs.com saying that Vivi's will feature globally-inspired small plates and cocktails.

It looks like Vivi's will open around the end of this month and it will offer dinner service only at first, with brunch on the way at a later date.

The address for Vivi's Tapas Bar is 21 Revere Beach Boulevard, Revere, MA, 02151. Its website is at https://www.vivisrevere.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/vivisrevere/

[April 8 update: According to its website and Instagram page, Vivi's Tapas Bar is now open.]

[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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Wednesday, March 06, 2024

MonteVerdi to Open at The Royal Sonesta in Cambridge

A new Italian dining spot is on its way to a riverside space in Cambridge, and a well-known local restaurateur is behind it.

According to a press release, Seth Greenberg (Mistral, Mooo Seaport, Serafina Seaport, Serafina Back Bay) is planning to open MonteVerdi in the former Dante space at The Royal Sonesta Boston, which is located along the Charles River on Edward H. Land Boulevard. The upcoming spot will feature a mix of traditional and modern Italian dishes along with beer, wine, and cocktails, and the space will include an outdoor terrace with views of the Charles as well as a private dining room.

If all goes as planned, MonteVerdi will open sometime in May and will initially offer dinner service and a weekend brunch, while lunch service and a raw bar will be added at a later date.

The address for MonteVerdi (and The Royal Sonesta Boston) is 40 Edwin H Land Boulevard, Cambridge, MA, 02142. The web page for the hotel can be found at https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/ma/cambridge/royal-sonesta-boston

[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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The Babe Opens in Salem

A new bar has come to the North Shore after being in the works for more than a year, moving into the space where a longtime drinking spot had once been.

According to a post from @berkie1, The Babe is now open in Salem, taking over the former Major Magleashe's space on Washington Street. The website for the place--which is run by local restaurateur Seth Gerber--indicates that it is a "friendly neighborhood bar and sandwich shop" that offers such items as burgers, Italian subs, cheese steaks, meatball sandwiches, wings, and bar nuts, along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

Major Magleashe's first opened in the space in 1978.

The address for The Babe is 268 Washington Street, Salem, MA, 01970. Its website can be found at https://www.thebabesalem.com/

[Earlier Article]
Seth Gerber (MIDA) Purchases Major Magleashe's Space in Salem

[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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Tuesday, March 05, 2024

Life Alive to Open in Jamaica Plain

A local group of cafes that feature healthy, organic food is once again looking to open a location in Jamaica Plain, nearly 10 years after we first reported its plans to come to the Boston neighborhood.

According to an article from boston.com, Life Alive is planning to open in the former Canary Square space on S Huntington Avenue this summer, with the upcoming eatery having seating for 75 along with a seasonal outdoor patio out front. Once it opens, the new outlet will join others locally in Boston's Back Bay and South End, Brookline, Cambridge, Dedham, Lowell, Salem, and Somerville, and it will focus mainly on vegan, organic foods along with coffee, tea, and smoothies.

The address for the upcoming location of Life Alive in JP is 435 S Huntington Ave, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02130. The website for all locations can be found at https://www.lifealive.com/

[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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Monday, March 04, 2024

The Bagel Bar Is Opening in the Former Fuller Cup Space in Winchester

A bagel place in the northern suburbs of Boston is expanding to a second space north of the city, and this one is replacing a bakery-cafe that shut down last year.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, The Bagel Bar is planning to open in Winchester, moving into the former Fuller Cup space on Thompson Street in the center of town. A new Instagram page is up for the upcoming Winchester shop, and based on the original location in Burlington, the new outlet could be offering bagels, bagel sandwiches, toast, and coffee.

The Burlington location of The Bagel Bar debuted in early 2020 in the Cambridge Street plaza near the Billerica line.

The address for the upcoming outlet of The Bagel Bar in Winchester is 11 Thompson Street, Winchester, MA, 01890. The website for the business is at https://mybagelbar.com/ while the Instagram page for the new location is at https://www.instagram.com/bagelbar_winchester

[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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Taffer's Tavern at Arsenal Yards in Watertown Has Closed

A franchise-owned restaurant just west of Boston that was created by the host of a reality show has shut down.

According to a post from @adam_lozo, Taffer's Tavern at Arsenal Yards in Watertown is no longer in business, with a phone call placed to the dining spot confirming that it has permanently closed. We have also received a message this morning which says the following:

"We would like to thank our amazing team of employees, the Watertown community, our patrons, and all the support we received from the people behind the Taffer's Tavern franchise organization. We have decided to pursue other business endeavors outside the hospitality industry, so must say good-bye. While we leave with heavy hearts, we are proud of what we delivered to our community, the good times, and are grateful to all the fine people we met along the way." – Peter Weber & Marc Magerman, Taffer's Tavern Watertown Franchisees

Taffer's Tavern, which first opened at Arsenal Yards in the summer of 2022, was initially considered to be the "first of many locations" of Jon Taffer's dining concept that would be coming the Greater Boston area, though this was the only outlet to open as of this writing; locations in Washington, D.C., and Alpharetta, GA remain in operation.

Jon Taffer is known in part for his role as host of the reality series Bar Rescue on Paramount Network.

The website for Taffer's Tavern can be found at https://www.tafferstavern.com/

[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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Seabiscuit in East Boston Is Closing

A waterfront cafe and bakery that is known in part for its meat pies is shutting down.

According to multiple sources, Seabiscuit in East Boston is closing its doors, with the website and social media for the dining spot saying that its last day will be March 14. The eatery had originally been located in Somerville before moving to the shipyard in East Boston in the summer of 2021, replacing KO Pies which had focused on Australian-style meat pies.

The address for Seabiscuit is 256 Marginal Street (Building 16), East Boston, MA, 02128. Its website can be found at https://www.seabiscuitebo.com/

[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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Sunday, March 03, 2024

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 3

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between February 26 and March 3.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream to Open Locations in Boston, Cambridge, and Chestnut Hill
A group of ice cream shops with roots in New York City will be expanding to the Boston area.
Full Story

Cook House Plans to Open in South Boston
A new dining spot from a local restaurant group may be on its way to South Boston.
Full Story

The Scotty Dog in Beverly Has Closed
A popular North Shore spot known for its Chicago-style hot dogs has shut down.
Full Story

Heritage of Sherborn Has Been Sold, Will Be Replaced by Fireside Tavern Sherborn
A suburban restaurant in an historic space is closing, and a new spot is moving in.
Full Story

A La Esh Is Returning to Sharon
A suburban dining spot that focused on BBQ items with influences ranging from Israel to the American South is being reborn.
Full Story

[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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