Monday, September 30, 2024

The Continental in Saugus Is Closing

One of the last of the old-school restaurants along Route 1 north of Boston is shutting down.

According to an X/Twitter post from Drew Moholland of WBZ NewsRadio 1030, The Continental in Saugus is going to be closing, with the place apparently saying farewell the weekend before Thanksgiving. The restaurant, which has been in business for 72 years, has been known in part for its steak and seafood dishes along with its popovers. 

The address for The Continental is 266 Broadway, Saugus, MA 01906. Its website can be found at https://www.thecontinentalsaugus.com/

[November 25 update: The social media for The Continental confirms that it is now closed, having shut down after business hours on Sunday, November 24.]

(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]


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KKatie's Express in West Bridgewater Has Apparently Closed

A location of a trio of quick-service burger spots appears to have shut down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, KKatie's Express in West Bridgewater has closed, with a check on its website seeming to confirm this, as that location is no longer shown while phone calls to the place are unable to go through. The website does show the other two locations in Plympton and Plymouth remaining open, along with the original KKatie's Burger Bar concept in Marshfield, Plymouth, and Hyannis.

The West Bridgewater outlet of KKatie's Express first opened in early 2023.

The address for the now-closed KKatie's Express in West Bridgewater was 3 S Main Street, West Bridgewater, MA, 02379. The website for KKatie's Express can be found at https://www.kkaties.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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Restaurant News for the Week Ending September 29

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between September 23 and September 29.


Pig Beach BBQ to Open within PKL in South Boston
An award-winning barbecue joint with roots in New York City is setting up shop in a pickleball facility in South Boston.
Full Story

Chalawan in Cambridge Has Closed
A Southeast Asian restaurant in Cambridge has shut down.
Full Story

Fit-Z's Bar & Grille in Watertown Is Being Sold
A neighborhood bar a few miles west of Boston is saying goodbye after nearly 20 years in business.
Full Story

Fiorella's Cucina Opens in Burlington
A local group of Italian restaurants has expanded to a new space north of Boston.
Full Story

Salem Lowe at Salem Willows Park Has Closed (Again)
A landmark North Shore dining spot that closed a couple of years ago only to reopen last spring under new ownership has shut down again.
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, September 27, 2024

Wild Willy's Burgers in Watertown Is Becoming Belle's Charbroiled Burgers & Ice Cream

It looks like a location of a small local group of burger places is rebranding.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Wild Willy's Burgers in Watertown is going to become Belle's Charbroiled Burgers & Ice Cream, with a Facebook thread from the business indicating that both the Wild Willy's name and the western theme will go away because of "part of the agreement with Wild Willy's in York" while also saying that "Renewing the license agreement was prohibitively expensive. Besides after 20 years we thought a refresh would be fun." The thread mentions that the name change is slated to take place in October and a grand opening of the new spot will likely take place early next year.

In addition to the location in York, ME, another outlet of Wild Willy's Burgers can be found in Rochester, NH, and it appears that both of those restaurants will remain as is.

The address for Wild Willy's Burgers in Watertown (and Belle's Charbroiled Burgers & Ice Cream) is 46 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA, 02472. The website for Belle's is at https://www.belles-burgers.com/

[October 18 update: According to its website, Belle's Charbroiled Burgers & Ice Cream 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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Emma's Macarons in Waltham Has Closed

A shop west of Boston that featured a popular French confection has shut down.

According to a source, Emma's Macarons in Waltham is no longer in business, with an Instagram post from the Moody Street store indicating that it closed its doors yesterday, saying "I'm so sorry to those who did not get the chance to see us one last time. This was completely unexpected....Emma's Macarons will be taking a break from baking and any future updates will be posted on Instagram & Facebook." Emma's first opened in the spring of 2022 in the former Alba Mediterranean Market and Bakery space, offering small-batch macarons along with other pastries and baked goods.

The address for the now-closed Emma's Macarons was 248 Moody Street, Waltham, MA, 02453.


[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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Life Alive to Open in the Former Blaze Pizza Space in Burlington

A local group of cafes that feature healthy, organic food is further expanding through the Greater Boston area, with a new location on its way to the northern suburbs.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Life Alive is planning to open in Burlington, moving into the former Blaze Pizza space in the Vinebrook Plaza on Middlesex Turnpike. A Daily Times Chronicle article mentions that the upcoming eatery will have seating for 92 and like the other outlets, it will focus on scratch-made organic foods.

Once the new location of Life Alive opens, it will join others in Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Dedham, Lowell, Salem, and Somerville, along with soon-to-open outlets in Somerville's Union Square and Jamaica Plain. (Locations of Blaze Pizza remain in operation in Boston's Fenway and One Canal Park in East Cambridge.)

The address for the upcoming location of Life Alive is 91 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA, 01803. 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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Thursday, September 26, 2024

Pig Beach BBQ Is Opening within PKL in South Boston

An award-winning barbecue joint with roots in New York City is setting up shop in a pickleball facility in South Boston.

According to a source (Gary Goldblatt), Pig Beach BBQ is going to be opening in October within PKL at the corner of C Street and Old Colony Avenue, with a Boston Magazine article saying that the outpost of the restaurant--which started out in Brooklyn and now has locations in Queens and West Palm Beach, FL--will offer such items as pulled pork, ribs, brisket, wings, smash burgers, and more. The Pig Beach website mentions that since it debuted in its now-closed Brooklyn location in 2015, it has been featured on the Food Network, CBS Saturday Morning, and the Today Show as well as in The New York Times, Eater, and Southern Living.

PKL, which first opened in 2022, features cocktails, cornhole, shuffleboard, trivia nights, and live music in addition to pickleball.

The address for Pig Beach BBQ (and PKL) is 64 C Street, South Boston, MA, 02127. The website for Pig Beach is at https://www.pigbeachnyc.com/

[November 5 update: A message from PKL indicates that Pig Beach BBQ 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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Chalawan in Cambridge Is Closing

A Southeast Asian restaurant in Cambridge is shutting down.

According to a Bluesky post from @troysch1.bsky.social, Chalawan on Mass. Ave. is closing, with a Facebook post from the dining spot indicating that it says farewell on September 29. The restaurant, which is known in part for its Thai and Vietnamese fare, opened in 2019 in the former Pho House space between Porter Square and Harvard Square.

The address for Chalawan is 1790 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02140. Its website can be found at https://www.thechalawan.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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Wednesday, September 25, 2024

Thai Charoen Is Opening in the Former Joe's Main Street Pizza Space in Winchester

A new Thai restaurant is on its way to the northern suburbs of Boston, and it has an ownership connection to two other dining spots in the local area.

According to a source, a dining spot that was originally thought to have been called December in Bangkok but which is actually called Thai Charoen is opening in Winchester, taking over the space on the northern edge of the downtown area that had been home to Joe's Main Street Pizza. (December in Bangkok appears to be the LLC name.) A Winchester News article mentions that the person behind the upcoming eatery is Tisanamadee Szarkowski, who is also behind The Bangkok in Melrose and Kin Dee Thai & Pho in Lexington and who comes from Thailand.

The address for Thai Charoen is 612 Main Street, Winchester, MA, 01890.

[December 16 update: According to a source, Thai Charoen 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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Oba Bakery Is Opening in Allston

A new bakery that features a Mediterranean pastry item is on its way to Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Oba Bakery is getting ready to open in Allston, moving into the former Turkuaz Market on Brighton Avenue. The website for the upcoming shop indicates that it will focus at least in part on baklava, while also offering such items as walnut rolls, pistachio wraps, pistachio finger rolls, and more.

The address for Oba Bakery is 16 Brighton Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134. Its website can be found at https://obabakerycafe.com/

[October 29 update: According to its website, Oba Bakery 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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Sarva Indian Cuisine Opens in the Former Pho Real and Mochi Dough Space in Boston's Back Bay

A brand new Indian restaurant has come to the Back Bay of Boston, moving into the space where a combination pho spot/donut shop had been.

According to a source, Sarva Indian Cuisine is now open on Newbury Street, taking over the space that had been home to both Pho Real and Mochi Dough. The website for the new eatery mentions that it "offers a unique culinary journey with two distinct dining experiences - Sarva Café for quick, casual bites featuring a mix of American and Indian snacks, and Sarva Indian Cuisine for an elegant Indian dining experience." (The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily.)

Pho Real and Mochi Dough debuted in the summer of 2022, with the former being a Vietnamese restaurant and the latter being a location of a chain of Japanese donut shops.

The address for Sarva Indian Cuisine is 279 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116. Its website can be found at https://sarvacuisine.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, September 24, 2024

School Street Foods Is Opening in Lynnfield

The person behind a Latin-American puff pastry business is opening a permanent restaurant in the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a source (Paul Dube), School Street Foods is planning to open in Lynnfield, with a Facebook post from owner Javier Baez saying the following:

Pastelito Pastelito Pastelito -- Dreams become reality! We're thrilled to announce that our team is launching a School Street Foods brick and mortar at 618 Salem St, Lynnfield. Get ready for a full menu featuring New England's best empanadas and more, Tuesday-Saturday, starting early November, with online ordering, delivery, dine-in, takeout, and catering!....More details to come but thank you to all the people that have supported this dream and this vision over the years. We wouldn't be here without you and we look forward to feeding you and hopefully putting smiles on your faces.

Baez has been selling his filled pastelitos at various pop-ups in the local area, including such fillings as birria, chicken and cheese, pastrami and cheese, chicken bacon ranch, buffalo chicken, reuben, and more.

[November 20 update: According to its social media, School Street Foods is now open.]

(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]


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Fit-Z's Bar & Grille in Watertown Is Being Sold

A neighborhood bar a few miles west of Boston is saying goodbye after nearly 20 years in business.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Fit-Z's Bar & Grille in Watertown is getting ready to shut down, with a Facebook post from co-owner Jim Fitzgerald saying the following:

I'm sure that most of you have heard that we are selling the bar. It looks like our last night will be Monday September 30th. It's been a great run!!! Hopefully see you before we close at some point!!!

Fit-Z's first opened on Main Street in 2007, taking over the space that had once been home to another watering hole called The Busy Bee; the place describes itself as "an Irish pub with a Greek flair."

The address for Fit-Z's Bar & Grille is 451 Main St, Watertown, MA 02472. Its website can be found at https://fit-zsbarandgrille.com/

[September 30 update: A new Facebook post indicates that Fit-Z's Bar & Grille is now closed, as its last day in operation was Saturday.]

(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]


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Fiorella's Cucina Opens in Burlington

Last summer, it was reported that a local group of Italian restaurants was looking to expand to a new space north of Boston, and now we have learned that it has debuted.

According to a source, Fiorella's Cucina is now open in Burlington, moving into the space at the Burlington Mall where a location of Parm had been. The new location joins others in Concord and Newton as well as outlets of Fiorella's Express in Belmont, Brighton, Lexington, and Wellesley. 

The website for Fiorella's Cucina can be found at https://www.fiorellascucina.com/

[Earlier Article]
Fiorella's Cucina May Be Opening at the Burlington Mall, Replacing Parm


[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, September 23, 2024

Salem Lowe at Salem Willows Park Has Closed (Again)

A landmark North Shore dining spot that closed a couple of years ago only to reopen last spring under new ownership has shut down again.

According to a source, Salem Lowe at Salem Willows Park is no longer in business, with a Facebook post from the business saying the following:

After finishing our second season we have decided to close the Salem Lowe. We did our best to try and save a piece of history. We learned a lot. We have spent the last three years on this project and it is time for us to move on. The Salem Willows is a special place and we look forward to the next chapter and its future. The space is available for anyone who is interested. Spread the word!

Salem Lowe, which has been known in part for its chop suey sandwiches, was originally run by the Yee family who retired from the business after 50 years at the end of the 2022 season; Kathleen Rodgers and Ryan Harriman of Spitfire Tacos in Salem and Marblehead took over the place and opened it back up in April of 2023.

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


[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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Hobson's Bar & Kitchen Opens in Allston

Last fall, it was reported that a local restaurateur was planning to open a new spot in the space in Allston where a location of a group of pizzerias had been, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to a source, Hobson's Bar & Kitchen is now open in Allston, with local restaurateur Douglas Bacon taking over the space on Cambridge Street that had been home to Pizzeria Regina until it closed in 2020. The new place offers mostly New American and classic American fare including tuna tartare, deviled eggs, wings, pizza, burgers, skirt steak, roasted chicken, pork chops, and pan-seared scallops, and it also features live music as well.

The address for Hobson's Bar & Kitchen is 353 Cambridge Street, Allston, MA, 02134. Its website can be found at https://www.hobsonsbarandkitchen.com/

[Earlier Article]
Hobson's Bar & Kitchen Plans to Open in the Former Pizzeria Regina Space in Allston


[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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Yoshida Omakase May Be Opening in the Former Cornish Pasty Co. Space in Boston's Back Bay

It looks like a new Japanese restaurant could be opening in the Back Bay of Boston, and it would be taking over the space where a British-style spot had been.

According to a Boston licensing hearing board page, a new dining spot whose parent company is called Yoshida Omakase, LLC, is seeking to acquire the liquor license from the now-closed Cornish Pasty Co., and it would be operating within that Massachusetts Avenue space. The manager listed for the proposed restaurant is Gabrielle Morriseau, who may be the same person who has been involved with Craft and CruCraft, a wine shop in Milton, and JP Seafood Cafe, a Korean and Japanese restaurant in Jamaica Plain, though we are still trying to confirm this; we are also trying to confirm whether the dining spot would indeed be called Yoshida Omakase, so keep checking back for updates.

Cornish Pasty Co., which first opened in 2016, was known for its meat and vegetarian/vegan pasty options.

The address for the proposed Yoshida Omakase is 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]


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Park City Plans to Open in South Boston

[Ed note: This article was updated to reflect the fact that Cannonball Cafe will remain open.]

It looks like the people involved with a local restaurant group with locations in South Boston could be opening a new spot in Southie.

According to a Boston licensing hearing board page, Cannonball Cafe on Dorchester Avenue is looking to transfer its beer and wine license to a venue tentatively called Park City, which would operate at the same site as the cafe (which will stay open) and would include an outdoor space, seating for 440, lawn games, and a stage for live music. The manager listed for the proposed spot is Michael Shaw while the company listed is 383 Lot, LLC, which Bizapedia shows as having the same address as Broadway Restaurant Group (of which Shaw is a part and includes Loco, Lincoln, Fat Baby, Hunter's, and Capo, all of which are in South Boston). 

The address for Cannonball Cafe (and the proposed Park City) is 383 Dorchester Avenue, South Boston, MA, 02127.

[September 24 update: A statement has been sent to us that gives the following information on the plans: "Broadway Restaurant Group has signed a lease with Core to operate a seasonal outdoor venue at The LOT, Core’s events space at 383 Dorchester Ave. Activities will include live music, a variety of food options, a pavilion bar, walk-up bars, lawn games and more. In addition, The LOT will continue to host seasonal activities including many family events adjacent to the Broadway space. The Cannonball Cafe, now in its third successful year at the location, will continue to serve the community."]


[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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Restaurant News for the Week Ending September 22

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between September 16 and September 22.


Mazi Food Group to Open New Restaurant in the Former Butcher Shop Space in Boston's South End
A local restaurant group is opening a new spot within a space that had been home to a wine bar and butchery run by a well-known restaurateur.
Full Story

Naya to Open at Arsenal Yards in Watertown; Locations Also Planned for Boston
A growing group of Middle Eastern restaurants with roots in New York City will be expanding to the Boston area.
Full Story

Uno Pizzeria and Grill in Framingham Is Closing
A Boston-based group of deep-dish pizza spots continues to shrink, as a location west of the city is getting ready to shut down.
Full Story

Sullivan's Public House in Charlestown to Become Town Taqueria
A restaurant and bar in Charlestown that replaced a neighborhood watering hole a couple of years ago is planning to change its concept.
Full Story

Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza in Natick Has Closed
A Boston-area location of a Florida-based chain of pizza spots has shut down, and this coincides with its parent company declaring bankruptcy.
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, September 20, 2024

Mazi Food Group to Open New Restaurant in the Former Butcher Shop Space in Boston's South End

A local restaurant group is opening a new spot within a space that had been home to a wine bar and butchery run by a well-known restaurateur.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Mazi Food Group (Kava Neo-Taverna, Gigi, Ilona) is planning to open a new dining and drinking spot in the South End, moving into the former Butcher Shop space on Tremont Street. A name has not been given for the upcoming place as of yet, but Eater does say that it will focus on gastropub fare and that it could be opening later this year or early next year.

The Butcher Shop closed in the summer of 2023, and while it appeared to be a temporary closure, it never did reopen; the place was one of Barbara Lynch's restaurants and is one of several of her spots to close including Stir, Sportello, Menton, and Drink.

The address for the upcoming restaurant from Mazi Food Group is 552 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02118. The website for the restaurant group can be found at https://www.mazifoodgroup.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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Monica's Mithai Cafe & Bar Is Opening in Andover

A new option for Indian food is on its way to a space north of Boston.

According to a source, Monica's Mithai Cafe & Bar is planning to open in Andover, moving into the space on Post Office Avenue in the downtown area that had been home to Yella. An Andover News article mentions that the upcoming place will be a high-end cafe and bar that is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and it will focus in part on Indian desserts.

No opening date has been given as of yet for Monica's Mithai Cafe & Bar, so keep checking back for updates.

The address for Monica's Mithai Cafe & Bar is 16 Post Office Avenue, Andover, MA, 01810.


[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, September 19, 2024

Tama to Open in the Former Oga's Space in Natick

It looks like a new Japanese restaurant may be coming to the western suburbs of Boston, replacing another Japanese spot that recently closed.

According to an article from the Natick Report, Tama is planning to open in Natick, moving into the former Oga's Japanese Cuisine space on Route 9. The article mentions that the full name for the place will apparently be Tama Sushi & Ramen, and in addition to sushi and ramen it will also focus on hibachi, and it would have seating for 110 people. If all goes well, Tama could open next spring or summer.

Oga's had been in business for 23 years, offering such options as sushi, teppanyaki, udon and soba dishes, and bento boxes, and more.

The address for the upcoming Tama Sushi & Ramen is 915 Worcester Street (Route 9), Natick, MA, 01760.

[Earlier Article]
Oga's Japanese Cuisine in Natick Has 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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Naya Is Opening at Arsenal Yards in Watertown

A growing group of Middle Eastern restaurants with roots in New York City will be expanding to the Boston area.

According to a press release, Naya is going to be opening at Arsenal Yards in Watertown, bringing to the mixed-use development a fast-casual spot with Lebanese influences that offers customizable bowls, wraps, salads, desserts, and more. We have been told that in addition to the Watertown location, outlets are also being planned for downtown Boston [ed note--now open on Summer Street] and the Back Bay as well.

The website for Naya, which first started out in Manhattan approximately 15 years ago, can be found at https://www.eatnaya.com/

[February 4, 2025 update: According to a source, Naya is now open at Arsenal Yards.]

(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]


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HeyTea Is Opening in Boston's Back Bay

It looks like a chain of cheese tea shops with roots in China will be expanding to Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, HeyTea is looking to open in the Back Bay, moving into a space at 223 Newbury Street. Once it opens, the new shop will join several locations in New York, California, and Washington State along with others overseas, and expect to find such options as fruit tea and milk tea, with the teas being topped with a thick cheesy foam. 

The website for the HeyTea chain can be found at https://www.heytea.com/

[June 13, 2025 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page mentions that the Back Bay location of HeyTea is now open, and this is its second Boston location, as another had opened in Allston early this year.]

(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]


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Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Boon Choo Is Opening in Sharon

A brand new Thai restaurant is on its way to the southern suburbs of Boston, and it has an ownership connection to a now-closed Thai spot a bit further south.

According to a source (Jeremy Krantz), Boon Choo is going to be opening in Sharon, moving into the space in the Sharon Heights Shopping Plaza on South Main Street that had been home to A La Esh. A note on the website of the shuttered Yai's Kitchen in Norton says the following about the upcoming spot:

We will be opening a new location in Heights Plaza in Sharon this fall. Check out our website, Instagram and Facebook for updates. The new restaurant will call "Boon Choo" Thai Authentic food! We have truly loved being a part of your community and thank you for your unwavering during the past 2 years.

The address for Boon Choo is 370 South Main Street, Sharon, MA, 02067.

[October 31 update: According to multiple social media posts, Boon Choo 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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Brava Cucina Is Opening in the Former 4th & Cherry Space in Weymouth Landing

A new restaurant is coming to the South Shore, moving into the space where another dining spot had been until closing this spring.

According to a source (Casey Doyle), Brava Cucina is planning to open in Weymouth Landing, taking over the former 4th & Cherry space on Washington Street. Very little information has been given about the upcoming restaurant other than the fact that it will have an ownership connection to Pearl & Lime and Dotty's Kitchen & Raw Bar in Quincy and The Drift Kitchen & Drinks in Hull, while its Instagram page--and its name--indicates that it will focus on Italian fare.

4th & Cherry first opened in the summer of 2020, taking over the space that had previously been home to Passport.

The address for Brava Cucina is 59 Washington Street (Route 53), Weymouth, MA, 02188. Its website can be found at https://www.bravaweymouth.com/

[October 21 update: According to multiple sources, Brava Cucina is now open, and its website says that it features house-made pasta, craft cocktails, and Italian and American wines.]

[Earlier Article]
4th & Cherry in Weymouth Landing Has 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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Fiesta Bites Pizzeria Opens in Arlington Heights

A new spot that serves pizza and more has come to the northwest suburbs of Boston, moving into a space that has been home to several other food spots over the years.

According to a source, Fiesta Bites Pizzeria is now open in Arlington Heights, taking over the storefront at the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Park Avenue that has seen such places as Boston Pizza & Gyro, Yassou, Capri Pizza & Subs, and Charlie's Pizza. The Google page for the new spot says that it offers such options as pizza (including Sicilian pizza), subs, chicken fingers, pasta dishes, fries, onion rings, and more.

The address for Fiesta Bites Pizzeria is 1323 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02476.


[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, September 17, 2024

Tropical Smoothie Cafe Opens in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

A Georgia-based chain of restaurants featuring salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and more has further expanded into the Greater Boston area, with its first one within the city itself opening its doors.

According to a press release, Tropical Smoothie Cafe is now open in the Fenway neighborhood of Boston, moving into a space on Boylston Street a short distance west of Massachusetts Avenue. The new outlet joins a handful of others in the region, including in Amesbury, Beverly, Chelmsford, Foxborough, Methuen, Peabody, Plymouth, Saugus, Swampscott, and Westford.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe first started out in Florida in 1997 and is now headquartered in Atlanta.

The address for the new location of Tropical Smoothie Cafe in the Fenway is 1122 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for the chain is at https://www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.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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Uno Pizzeria and Grill in Framingham Is Closing

A Boston-based group of deep-dish pizza spots continues to shrink, as a location west of the city is getting ready to shut down.

According to multiple sources, Uno Pizzeria and Grill in Framingham is going to be closing, with a Natick Report article indicating that the Route 9 location shutters today. Once it closes, only three outlets in the Greater Boston area will remain in operation--in Braintree, Dedham, and Revere.

There had once been many more locations of the chain locally, including in Boston's Back Bay, Fenway, and Symphony area along with Allston, Cambridge's Harvard Square and Porter Square, Burlington, Newton Corner, Swampscott, Waltham, and Woburn.

The address for the Framingham location of Uno Pizzeria and Grill in Framingham is 70 Worcester Road (Route 9), Framingham, MA, 01701. The website for all locations of Uno can be found at https://www.unos.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, September 16, 2024

Sullivan's Public House in Charlestown to Become Town Taqueria

A restaurant and bar in Charlestown that replaced a neighborhood watering hole a couple of years ago is planning to change its concept.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Sullivan's Public House on Main Street is looking to become Town Taqueria, with the new place being what UH says will be a taco joint. Owner Matthew Sullivan first opened Sullivan's Public House in March of 2022, replacing the cash-only Sullivan's Pub and focusing more on food than its predecessor; Sullivan will continue to run the new restaurant, which could open in November if all goes as planned.

The address for Sullivan's Public House (and the upcoming Town Taqueria) is 85 Main Street, Charlestown, MA, 02129.


[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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Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza in Natick Has Closed

A Boston-area location of a Florida-based chain of pizza spots has shut down, and this coincides with its parent company declaring bankruptcy.

According to multiple sources, Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza in Natick is no longer in business, which means that only three outlets remain open in the region--in Littleton, Reading, and Westwood--while BurgerFi International Inc., which operates the chain, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy according to restaurantbusinessonline.com. The chain once had locations in Beverly, Newton, and Northborough as well, but all three of those are gone.

The address for the now-closed location of Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza in Natick was 219 N Main Street Suite A-104, Natick, MA, 01760. The website for the chain can be found at https://acfp.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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Neko's Of New York in Stoughton Has Closed

A dining spot in the southern suburbs of Boston that was known for its pizza has shut down.

According to a source (Jeremy Krantz), Neko's Of New York in Stoughton is no longer in business, with a Facebook post from the Sharon Street eatery from late last month saying the following:

Hey guys, I won't be opening up again. Taking my sign down tomorrow and packing up my things. New owners taking over with their pizza place. Thank you for love & support

Neko's Of New York first opened in Stoughton in early 2023, having moved from Framingham the previous summer; the dining spot offered several different types of pizza.

The address for the now-closed Neko's Of New York was 111 Sharon Street, Stoughton, MA, 02072.

(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]


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Sunday, September 15, 2024

Restaurant News for the Week Ending September 15

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between September 9 and September 15.


Tenoch to Open in Harvard Square
A local group of Mexican restaurants is in expansion mode once again, as it now plans to open a new location in one of the busiest parts of Cambridge.
Full Story

Minado Restaurant in Natick Has Closed
A popular buffet spot west of Boston has shut down.
Full Story

Mr. H Opens in Boston's Seaport District
A local restaurant group has opened a new dining spot by the Boston waterfront.
Full Story

Dani's Queer Bar Opens in the Back Bay
A new bar that caters to the LGBTQ community has debuted in Boston.
Full Story

Elephantine Bakery in Portsmouth Is Expanding to a Second Location in Fort Point Neighborhood
It looks like a bakery-cafe on the New Hampshire seacoast will be joined by a second location in Boston.
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, September 13, 2024

Umami Tsunami Taqueria Opens in Dorchester

 A brand new Mexican restaurant has opened just off the Southeast Expressway.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Umami Tsunami Taqueria is now open in Dorchester, moving into a space on Neponset Avenue just north of Neponset Circle. The new eatery offers such items as chips and guacamole, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas, bowls, carne asada, and more, and it appears to be in the middle of a soft opening.

The address for Umami Tsunami Taqueria is 400 Neponset Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02122. Its Facebook page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/people/Umami-Tsunami-Taqueria/61563736385343/


[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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Tree House Brewing Company Opens Retail Store at the Prudential Center in Boston

One of the highest-rated breweries in New England now has a retail shop in Boston.

According to a press release, Tree House Brewing Company has opened a store at the Prudential Center in the Back Bay, with the shop being on the retail level of the Pru between Shake Shack and USPS. The store is open on Friday and Saturday this week, and it will expand its hours to 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily over the next several weeks--and for those who want to order ahead, there is a drive-through pick-up area in the orange level free loop garage via the 125 Huntington Avenue entrance before Pressed CafĂ©. (The press release mentions that the brewery has also created a special IPA for the Pru called "Hello Boston.")

Tree House has had a pop-up beer garden open on Thursdays in South Garden at the Pru, and which remains in operation this month; brick-and-mortar locations can be found in Charlton, Sandwich, Deerfield, and Tewksbury. (Its website can be found at https://treehousebrew.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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Tenoch to Open in Cambridge's Harvard Square

A local group of Mexican restaurants is in expansion mode once again, as it now plans to open a new location in one of the busiest parts of Cambridge.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page (via a Harvard Crimson article), Tenoch is going to be opening in Harvard Square, moving into a space in The Garage that had been home to Las Palmas, and before that, El Jefe's Taqueria and The Taco Truck. Once it opens, the new location of Tenoch will join others in Boston's North End, East Cambridge, Medford Square, Somerville's Davis Square, Malden, and Melrose, and it will likely offer such options as tortas, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and more.

The address for the upcoming location of Tenoch in Harvard Square is 83 Mt Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for all locations is at https://www.tenochmexican.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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Minado Restaurant in Natick Has Closed

A popular buffet spot west of Boston has shut down.

According to a source, Minado Restaurant in Natick is no longer in business, with a note on the website for the Route 9 restaurant saying the following:

With a heavy heart, we announce that after 21 incredible years, Minado Restaurant in Natick, MA, will close its doors permanently on Tuesday, September 10, 2024. We are deeply grateful to all who have supported us throughout the years and are thankful for allowing us the privilege of serving you.

Minado was known for its all-you-can-eat buffet which featured sushi and seafood dishes.

The address for the now-closed Minado Restaurant was 1282 Worcester Street (Route 9), Natick, MA, 01760.


[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, September 12, 2024

Pon De Joy Opens in Andover

A pair of Boston-area shops that feature donuts with a mix of American and Japanese influences have been joined by a new location north of the city.

According to a source, Pon De Joy is now open in Andover, with the shop moving into a space on Main Street in the downtown area. The new shop, which is called "Pon De Joy | Mart," joins other locations of Pon De Joy in Newton Centre and Malden, and it offers a variety of mochi donuts, which are basically a fusion of American-style doughnuts and Japanese rice cakes.

The address for the new location of Pon De Joy in Andover is 90 Main Street, Andover, MA, 01810. The website for the business can be found at https://www.pondejoy.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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Mr. H Opens in Boston's Seaport District

Earlier this year, it was reported that a local restaurant group was planning to open a new dining spot by the Boston waterfront, and now we have learned that it has debuted.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page (via an Instagram post from the place), Mr. H is now open on Northern Avenue, and as mentioned in an earlier article here, Coje Management Group (Yvonne's, Mariel, Caveau, Ruka, Coquette, Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bars) is behind the new restaurant. The website for the place says that it is "a modern Chinese restaurant that weaves a sophisticated reverence for the cuisines of mainland China & Taiwan with the vibrant, intimate energy of a Shanghainese cocktail lounge" and that it is "a sanctuary of intimacy and elegance, offering a refined dining experience that captivates both day and night."

The address for Mr. H is 225 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210. Its website is at https://mrhchinese.com/

[Earlier Article]
Coje Management Group to Open Mr. H in Boston's Seaport District


[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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Dani's Queer Bar Opens in Boston's Back Bay

Early last year, it was reported that a new bar that caters to the LGBTQ community would be coming to Boston, and now we have learned that it is open.

According to its website and Instagram page, Dani's Queer Bar opens later today in the Back Bay, taking over the space on Boylston Street where The Pour House used to be. As stated in an earlier article here, LGBTQ Nightlife Events is behind the new spot, saying at the time that "Our mission is to open Boston's first Queer Bar for women and non-binary LGBTQ+ community members who feel like we have no place."

The Pour House temporarily closed in March of 2020 after 34 years in business.

The address for Dani's Queer Bar is 907 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02115. Its website is at https://danisqueerbar.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/danisqueerbarboston

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


[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, September 11, 2024

Chennai Eats Opens in Watertown

A brand new Indian restaurant has come to a space a few miles west of Boston.

According to its website, Chennai Eats is now open in Watertown, moving into the former Don's BBQ/Avenue Deli/Strip-T's space on School Street, a short distance north of Arsenal Street. This jibes with earlier reports from multiple sources, including a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page a couple of weeks ago, saying that it was getting ready to open. The website indicates that it focuses at least in part on South Indian fare, including a variety of dosas.

The Don's BBQ closed down last summer after being in business for a bit under two years; the space had previously been home to Avenue Deli, and before that, Strip-T's. 

The address for Chennai Eats is 93 School Street, Watertown, MA, 02472. Its website can be found at https://chennaieatsma.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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Nonantum Press Room Is Opening in Newton

A new sandwich shop is on its way to a space a few miles west of Boston.

According to multiple sources, including a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Nonantum Press Room is going to be opening in Newton, moving into a space on Adams Street in the city's Nonantum neighborhood. The Facebook page for the upcoming spot says that it will be a "neighborhood sandwich shop specializing in paninis, elevated sandwiches, soulful soups and crisp salads," while What Now Boston indicates that owner Jim Donovan hopes to open the place sometime in October.

The address for Nonantum Press Room is 191 Adams Street, Newton, MA, 02458. Its website can be found at https://www.nonantumpressroom.com/

[March 5, 2025 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page mentions that Nonantum Press Room is now open.]

(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]


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Los Altos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina to Open in Billerica

A brand new Mexican restaurant is on its way to the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a press release, Los Altos Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is planning to open in Billerica, moving into a space within O'Connor Hardware Plaza in the center of town. A web page from KeyPoint Partners (a Burlington-based commercial real estate service firm that negotiated the lease with the restaurant) indicates that the family behind the upcoming dining spot runs several other restaurants in New Hampshire, though specific details weren't given as of yet, nor is it known when Los Altos might open.

O'Connor Hardware Plaza can be found by the corner of Route 3A and Andover Road.


[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, September 10, 2024

Shiraz Persian Cuisine in East Watertown Has Closed

A neighborhood restaurant that featured authentic Persian dishes has shut down.

According to multiple sources, Shiraz Persian Cuisine in East Watertown is no longer in business, with a Facebook post from the Bigelow Avenue spot saying the following:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing of Shiraz Persian Restaurant after 16 wonderful years. We have cherished every moment spent serving you and being a part of this community. Your support, loyalty, and shared love for Persian cuisine have been the cornerstone of our success and joy. We are immensely grateful for the friendships we’ve made, the stories shared, and the memories created within our walls. Shiraz has been more than just a restaurant; it has been a place where culture, tradition, and community came together. As we close this chapter, we want to express our deepest gratitude to each of you. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives. We hope that the flavors of Shiraz will remain in your hearts as fond memories.

Shiraz offered such dishes as torshi, zeytoon parvardeh, shirin polo, chicken soltani, beef kubideh, and baklava.

The address for the now-closed Shiraz Persian Restaurant was 72 Bigelow Avenue, Watertown, MA, 02472.


[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, September 09, 2024

Scobie's Cafe & Bar Opens in Dorchester

Last fall, it was reported that a traditional Irish pub was planning to open in Dorchester and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to an article from Caught in Dot (via the Instagram page for the place), Scobie's Cafe & Bar is now open in Adams Village, moving into a space by the corner of Adams Street and Gallivan Boulevard. As mentioned earlier, the new place has the feel of the rural pubs found along the West Coast of Ireland and that John and Anne Lydon, who own the spot, are also behind the Shamrock Pub in South Boston.

Originally, it had appeared that Scobie's would have a Gallivan Boulevard address, but now it looks like its actual address is 782 Adams Street, Dorchester, MA, 02124.

[Earlier Article]
Scobie's Plans to Open in Dorchester's Adams Village 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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Elephantine Bakery in Portsmouth Is Expanding to a Second Location in Boston's Fort Point Neighborhood

It looks like a bakery-cafe on the New Hampshire seacoast will be joined by a second location in Boston.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the city's website, Elephantine Bakery is planning to open in the Fort Point neighborhood, moving into a space on Congress Street. This jibes with an earlier FPNA notice saying that the business, which is "an old world cafĂ©" would be seeking a beer, wine, and cordials license, while the recent hearing notice mentions that it plans to have a front window seating area, service bar area, and main dining area with seating for about 65 people.

The original Elephantine Bakery can be found in Portsmouth, offering foods with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences.

The address for the proposed location of Elephantine Bakery in Fort Point is 332 Congress Street, Boston, MA, 02210. The website for the Portsmouth location is at https://www.elephantinebakery.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, September 08, 2024

Restaurant News for the Week Ending September 8

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between September 2 and September 8.


Busy Bee Restaurant and Diner in Brookline Has Closed
A neighborhood diner that has been around for nearly 60 years has shut down.
Full Story

Brockton Beer Company Is Closing Down
A brewery south of Boston that collaborated with other beermakers for a few years until debuting its very own facility a couple of years ago is shutting its doors.
Full Story

Solas, City Bar, City Table at the Lenox Hotel in Boston's Back Bay to Close; New Concepts to Replace Them
Three popular hotel restaurants/bars in Boston are getting ready to close, with something new coming to the spaces.
Full Story

Distraction Brewing Company in Roslindale Square To Remain Open
A local brewery that was planning to close down will not be closing down after all.
Full Story

Demet's Donuts in Medford Is Apparently Reopening After Closing Down Last Weekend
A decades-old donut shop just north of Boston has closed its doors, though it looks like it may be opening back up.
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, September 06, 2024

Busy Bee Restaurant & Diner in Brookline Has Closed

A neighborhood diner that has been around for nearly 60 years has shut down.

According to a Facebook post from Patrick Maguire who also posted to the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, the Busy Bee Restaurant & Diner in Brookline has closed its doors, with a note from the Beacon Street eatery saying the following:

After serving regulars, neighbors, families, students, workers, hospital staff, patients and their relatives, and after welcoming people from 'all walks' since 1967, our family has decided to close the Busy Bee. We own the condo where Busy Bee is located and are currently negotiating with a prospective new restaurant tenant.

It isn't yet known what kind of dining spot might replace the Busy Bee, so keep checking back for updates.

The address for the now-closed Busy Bee was 1046 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, 02446.

(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]


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Update: Brockton Beer Company Will Remain Open

[Ed note: This article was updated on October 10 to reflect the fact that the brewery is not closing after all.]

In early September, it looked like a brewery south of Boston was going to be shutting its doors, but now it looks like it will remain in operation.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Brockton Beer Company remains open and will continue to be in operation, with an Instagram post for the Main Street business mentioning changes in management and its kitchen are taking place while also saying that a new GM will be brought onboard and there will be extended days of operation. (The post also says that the beers will not change.)

An earlier Facebook post from September 6 had said the following:

With heavy hearts, we're announcing the closure of our Downtown Brockton taproom on Saturday, September 28th. Despite our best efforts, we've made the tough decision to close our doors. We are beyond grateful for the incredible support from our community, our dedicated team, and all our amazing guests who made this journey since 2018 unforgettable. Join us for our final days and raise a glass to the good times we've shared, and feel free to share any memories or highlights you had with us.

The website for the business had also said at the time that "our current revenue this year has fallen short of projections that do not cover our current and ongoing expenses," while mentioning that customers should use their gift cards before their final day, and they also say there are currently no plans to reopen the brewery or transfer ownership.

The address for Brockton Beer Company is 121 Main Street, Brockton, MA, 02301. Its website can be found at https://www.brocktonbeer.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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Great American Beer Hall Opens in Medford

A new beer hall has opened just north of Boston after being in the works for nearly a year.

According to multiple sources, the Great American Beer Hall is now open in Medford, moving into a space on Mystic Avenue between Main Street and the Harvard Street/Route 16 intersection. The new spot includes 17,000 square feet of space with an outdoor beer garden and an extensive list of beers on tap along with wine, seltzers, and cocktails, while the place will also serve food from both a restaurant within the space and food trucks and it will have live music and games as well. (Even though the Great American Beer Hall is now up and running, the space continues to be under construction so it isn't fully open just yet.)

The address for the Great American Beer Hall is 142 Mystic Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155. Its website can be found at https://www.gabhall.com/

[Earlier Article]
Great American Beer Hall Plans to Open in Medford


[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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