Friday, February 28, 2025

Jinjee, Sanbada, and Bombbada to Open in the Former Tavern in the Square Space in Allston

A multi-concept place featuring food and drink is looking to open in Allston, and it will be taking over the space where a location of a local chain of restaurants had been.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Jinjee, Sanbada, and Bombbada are all planning to open in the former Tavern in the Square space on Brighton Avenue, with an earlier abutters meeting post indicating that Jinjee will offer Korean BBQ, Sanbada will be a Korean restaurant that focuses on grilled fish and an array of side dishes, and Bombbada will be "the nighttime counterpart of Sanbada," featuring Korean dishes along with specialty Korean cocktails. It looks like the restaurants will have a couple of rooms including a dining and bar area in one and more seating in another, with two other rooms being used for kitchens and food prep areas.

The Allston location of Tavern in the Square closed in 2024 after 14 years in operation.

The address for Jinjee, Sanbada, and Bombbada is 161 Brighton Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134. 

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[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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Bok Bok Thai Chicken & Rice Is Opening in the Former Master Pies Artisan Pizza Space in Arlington Heights

A new dining spot is opening in the northwest suburbs of Boston, taking over the space where a pizza spot had been.

According to a poster within The Arlington List Facebook group page, Bok Bok Thai Chicken & Rice is opening in Arlington Heights, moving into the former Master Pies Artisan Pizza space on Mass. Ave. Master Pies was under the same ownership as the adjacent Ginger Exchange Express, and it appears that Bok Bok Thai Chicken & Rice is under the same ownership as well which would indicate that this may simply be a concept change, though we are still trying to confirm this.

Ginger Exchange Express and Master Pies Artisan Pizza first opened in the summer of 2021 in the space where Great Wok had once been; other locations of Ginger Exchange can be found in Boston's Mission Hill and in Watertown.

The address for Bok Bok Thai Chicken & Rice (and Ginger Exchange Express) is 1181 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02476.

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[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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Birria Taqueria Opens in Dorchester

A brand new Mexican restaurant has come to a Boston neighborhood.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Birria Taqueria is now open in Dorchester, moving into the La Familia Kitchen space on Columbia Road in the Grove Hall area. The website and social media for the dining spot mention that it offers such items as tacos, tamales, burritos, fajitas, enchiladas, pupusas, quesadillas, tostadas, empanadas, flautas, and more, and it is open for lunch and dinner daily.

The address for Birria Taqueria is 224 Columbia Road, Dorchester, MA, 02121. Its website can be found at https://www.birria-taqueria.com/

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[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, February 27, 2025

Rosa Y Marigold to Open at Lyrik Back Bay

A year ago, it was reported that a new mixed-use project in Boston that will include a public plaza over the Mass. Pike will be home to several places for food and drink, and now we have learned of another restaurant on its way to the development.

According to a press release, Rosa Y Marigold is coming to Lyrik Back Bay by Newbury Street and Massachusetts Avenue, with the Celeste and La Royal team being behind it. The upcoming dining spot will feature Peruvian cuisine and it will be open for lunch, dinner and a weekend brunch, and if all goes as planned it will open sometime this fall. (In addition to Rosa Y Marigold, other food/drink places coming to the development include Van Leewan Ice Cream, Chicha Sen Chen, George Howell Coffee, Pink Carrot, and Avra Estiatorio.)

Celeste is located in Somerville's Union Square while La Royal resides in Cambridge's Observatory Hill area, with both offering Peruvian fare.

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[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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Big Daddy's in Brighton Expands, Opening a New Location in East Arlington

A dining spot in a Boston neighborhood that is known in part for its pizza has expanded to the northwest suburbs.

According to multiple sources, Big Daddy's is now open in East Arlington, taking over the former Maria's Pizzeria and Grille space on Mass. Ave. and joining another location on Western Avenue in Brighton. In addition to pizza, Big Daddy's also offers calzones, subs, pasta dishes, and grill items, and one of its more popular items is its fried dough bites with cinnamon.

The address for the new location of Big Daddy's in East Arlington is 86 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02474. The website for the business is at https://bdpizza.com/

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[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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Burton's Grill to Open in the Former TGI Fridays Space in Mansfield

A small local chain of upscale restaurants is opening a new location southwest of Boston, and it will move into the space where a shrinking national chain of dining spots had once been.

According to a source, Burton's Grill is planning to open in Mansfield, taking over the former TGI Fridays space at Mansfield Crossing by the corner of School Street and Route 140. A check on the Mansfield Crossing website confirms this, showing a "coming soon" page for Burton's, which currently has locations locally in Burlington, Framingham, Hingham, Lynnfield, North Andover, Shrewsbury, and Westford.

The Mansfield location of TGI Fridays closed in early 2024, and only five remain in Massachusetts today--in Boston, Everett, Methuen, Millbury, and Stoughton.

The address for the upcoming location of Burton's Grill at Mansfield Crossing is 280 School Street, Mansfield, MA, 02048. The website for all locations of Burton's can be found at https://burtonsgrill.com/

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[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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Tavolino in Westborough Is Closing

A pair of casual upscale Italian restaurants known for their pizza and pasta dishes will soon be down to just one, as their MetroWest location is getting ready to shut down.

According to multiple sources as well as a post within the ChewOnThis Facebook group page, Tavolino in Westborough is going to be closing its doors on March 1 after being in operation for 16 years, with no specific reason being given for the closure of the spot which is located within Bay State Commons. It appears that the Foxboro location of the restaurant will remain open, as will Citizen Crust in Foxboro and Siena in Mashpee, both of which have an ownership connection.

The address for Tavolino in Westborough is 33 E Main Street, Westborough, MA, 01581. The website for both locations is at https://www.tavolinorestaurant.us/

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[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, February 26, 2025

Sally's Sandwiches Is Opening in Brighton

It looks like a local pair of sandwich shops will soon be joined by a third.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Sally's Sandwiches is going to be opening within the Blackbird Doughnuts space in Brighton, joining other locations in Boston's South End and within Harvard University's Smith Campus Center in Cambridge, both of which are also home to locations of Blackbird Doughnuts as well. The group behind Sally's and Blackbird Doughnuts is The Gallows Group, which also runs Banyan Bar + Refuge in the South End along with other locations of Blackbird Doughnuts in the Fenway, Beacon Hill, Newton Centre, and Watertown.

The new location of Sally's Sandwiches is slated to open on March 1.

The address for Sally's Sandwiches (and Blackbird Doughnuts) in Brighton is 100 Holton Street, Brighton, MA, 02135. The website for Sally's is at https://www.sallyssandwiches.com/

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[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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Sullivan's in South Boston Receives a James Beard America's Classics Award

An iconic seaside eatery known in part for its hot dogs, burgers, fried clams, and lobster rolls has gained some national recognition.

According to a press release, Sullivan's in South Boston is a winner of the James Beard America's Classics Award, which was given to a total of six places in the United States for 2025. Owner Brendan Sullivan says of the award, which is given out to regional spots for their food quality, local character, and timeless appeal, that it "is not only a recognition of our commitment to serving outstanding food but also a celebration of the traditions that have defined Sullivan's for generations. Sullivan goes on to say that "We are deeply honored to be recognized among America's Classics and to continue our legacy of bringing people together over great memories. This is not just an award for us: this is an award for all of New England."

Sullivan's has been in South Boston since 1951, with a second location opening in Hanover in 2023 (the Hanover outlet is open year round, while the Castle Island location is seasonal).

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[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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Jersey Mike's Subs Is Opening in the Former Bishop's Mediterranean Grill Space in Boston's West End

A New Jersey-based chain of sub shops is getting ready to open another location in the local area, and this will be its second within the Boston city limits--and its first in or near the downtown area.

According to a source, Jersey Mike's Subs is planning to open in the city's West End neighborhood, moving into the space on Staniford Street that had been home to Bishop's Mediterranean Grill. Once it opens, the new outlet of the chain will join another in Brighton, along with others in Bedford, Burlington, Dedham, Newton, Saugus, Stoneham, and Watertown.

The address for the new location of Jersey Mike's Subs in the West End is 70 Staniford Street, Boston, MA, 02114. The website for the chain is at https://www.jerseymikes.com/

[May 2 update: A poster (Patrick Maguire) within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page mentions that the West End location of Jersey Mike's Subs is now open.]

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[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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Oda by B.U Bistro Opens in the Former Simpli Bar & Bites Space in Jamaica Plain

A few months ago, it was reported that a pair of cafes known for their coffee and cocktails might be opening a third location where a Jamaica Plain restaurant had been, and now we have learned that a different place has opened within the space.

According to a source, Oda by B.U Bistro is now open in the Forest Hills area of JP, taking over the former Simpli Bar & Bites space on Washington Street. The new spot is a cafe that offers pastries, coffee, and tea, and it opens where a third location of Pomona Cafe & Wine Bar had originally been in the works, with the hope being for it to join other locations in Swampscott and Winthrop, though those plans apparently never came to be.

The address for Oda by B.U Bistro is 3840 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02131.

[Earlier Article]
Pomona Cafe & Wine Bar Plans to Open in the Former Simpli Bar & Bites Space in Jamaica Plain

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[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, February 25, 2025

Cisco Brewers Plans to Open a Beer Hall in Boston's Fenway

A local brewery may be opening a new location in Boston.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Cisco Brewers is looking to open a beer hall in the Fenway, moving into the space on Boylston Street where Tasty Burger had been before moving to nearby Van Ness Street. The post mentions that this would be a year round beer hall, and it would also have a seasonal beer garden with live music during the warmer months. If approved, the new location of Cisco would join others in Nantucket, New Bedford, Boston's Seaport District, and a production facility in Portsmouth, NH, that also included a pub until closing late last year. 

The address for the proposed location of Cisco in the Fenway is 1301 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for Cisco can be found at https://www.ciscobrewers.com/

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[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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Knoll Street Tavern Plans to Open in the Kelleher's Bar and Grille Space in Roslindale

A couple of months ago, it was reported that an old-school Boston bar was planning to close, and now we know what might be moving into its space.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Knoll Street Tavern is looking to open in Roslindale, taking over the Kelleher's Bar and Grille space on Centre Street. The notice mentions that the proposed spot would have a bar with seating for about 30 people as well as dining areas to the left and right, and the manager of the place would be Andrew Tremble; little else is known about Knoll Street, but more should be out about it this week as the hearing is slated for Wednesday, February 26.

The Kelleher's space was once home to a bar called Flynn's that opened in the 1950s, followed by Kelly & Whalen's, then P.J. Kelleher's, then Kelleher's Bar and Grille which opened in 2009.

The address for the proposed Knoll Street Tavern (and Kelleher's Bar and Grille) is 1410 Centre Street, Roslindale, MA, 02131.

[Earlier Article]
Kelleher's Bar and Grille in Roslindale Is Planning to Close

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[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, February 24, 2025

Brick Street Bagels to Open Brick-and-Mortar Shop in South Boston

A popup bagel business that has been based out of Boston's South End has found a permanent space in a nearby part of the city.

According to a source, Brick Street Bagels is making plans to open a brick-and-mortar shop in South Boston, with an Instagram post from the business saying the following:

10 months in the making and we could not be more excited to finally announce this! We will be opening our first permanent storefront where we will offer fresh bagels, open-faced sandwiches, coffee and whatever else our whimsy leads us to....Our new building is one of the oldest in Southie which brings with it lots of charm but also lots of expense. We are so excited and thankful to have this community that we can involve in the process and ask for help from.

Brick Street Bagels, which started in a South End apartment in 2022 and whose bagels can be found at the South End Buttery along with popup locations around the city, is currently trying to raise funds through NuMarket for the new shop--and they do say they will continue to offer bagels in the South End.

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[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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Sorrel and Lime Plans to Open in Dorchester

A new restaurant and bar is making plans to open in a part of Boston that has very few options for full-service dining and drinking.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Sorrel and Lime is looking to open in Dorchester, moving into a space on Blue Hill Avenue in the Franklin Field South neighborhood. The notice mentions that the proposed place is seeking a full liquor license and plans to have seating for about 165 along with a bar that will have seating for 12. An earlier Instagram post from state senator Liz Miranda shows construction at the space while stating that "It's beautiful to see and support your friends, so that they can make their dreams come through in real time. The city and our district will be better for it."

The address for the upcoming Sorrel and Lime is 986 Blue Hill Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02124.

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[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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Floramo's Is No Longer Affiliated with Bossmama Taproom & Kitchen in Wakefield

A couple of months ago, a restaurant famous for its steak tips joined up with a dining and drinking spot known in part for its "pour your own beer" concept, and now we have learned that the collaboration is over.

According to Facebook posts from both businesses, Floramo's is no longer involved with Bossmama Taproom & Kitchen in Wakefield, with a post from the former saying "Floramo's is no longer working in the kitchen at Bossmama....It wasn't the right atmosphere or concept for us....John and his kitchen staff and recipes are not available at that location," while the latter states that "We will not speak directly to the actions that abruptly ended this collaboration a few days ago, but will only re affirm that Bossmama's commitment to fostering a healthy work environment where our diverse staff are treated with respect and feel safe within our four walls is a non negotiable priority." Bossmama remains in operation in its Main Street space, while it is not known what plans Floramo's has at this point in time.

Floramo's Restaurant had first been in Chelsea, moving to spaces in Wakefield and Malden in 2022 after the Chelsea location closed due to redevelopment, though both the Wakefield and Malden restaurants shut down in 2024.

The address for Bossmama Taproom & Kitchen is 963 Main Street, Wakefield, MA, 01880.

[Earlier Article]
Bossmama Taproom & Kitchen in Wakefield Is Bringing Floramo's into Its Space

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[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 February 23, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between February 17, 2025, and February 23, 2025.


Gary's Pizza to Open in the South End
A local hospitality group is going to be opening a Roman-style pizza spot in Boston.
Full Story

Beyond Full to Open in the Former Zoe's Space in Harvard Square
It looks like a comfort food spot southwest of Boston is expanding to Cambridge, taking over the space where a diner that offered a mix of Greek and American fare had been.
Full Story

The Daily Catch to Open a Takeout Spot in Boston's North End
A trio of Sicilian-style seafood restaurants will soon be joined by a to-go spot near one of its locations.
Full Story

Leo's Events and Restaurant Is Opening in Braintree
The person behind several dining spots south of Boston is finally getting ready to open another new restaurant, though this one will have a different name and concept than originally thought.
Full Story

CSCA Cafe Opens in the Porter Square Section of Cambridge
A new cafe with a connection to a cooking school is up and running.
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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Thursday, February 20, 2025

Gary's Pizza Is Opening in Boston's South End

A local hospitality group is going to be opening a Roman-style pizza spot in the South End of Boston.

According to a post within the South End Community Board, Gary's Pizza is planning to open on Washington Street, with Columbus Hospitality Group (Mistral, Sorellina, Mooo..., Ostra) being behind the place. The website for the restaurant indicates that in addition to Roman-style pizza, it will also offer sandwiches and desserts, though no specific details have been given as of yet. [Ed note: Roman-style pizza typically--but not always--refers to thick and airy rectangular slices that are baked in a pan.]

The address for Gary's Pizza in the South End is 1744 Washington Street, Boston, MA, 02118. Its website can be found at https://garyspizzaboston.com/

[April 18 update: According to multiple sources, Gary's Pizza is now open.]

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[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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Mexica Burrito Grill Is Opening in Billerica

It looks like a Mexican restaurant in the northern suburbs of Boston will be expanding to a space nearby.

According to a source (Gary Goldblatt), Mexica Burrito Grill in Tewksbury is planning to open in Billerica, with a post within the Merrimac Valley Eats Facebook group page indicating (via the photo shown) that it will move into a space on Route 3A across from the Towne Plaza. It appears that this will be a second location rather than a move, though once we have more information we will post an update here.

The Tewksbury location of Mexica Burrito Grill, which is located on Route 38, focuses mainly on burritos, tacos, nachos, and bowls. Its website can be found at https://www.mexicaburrito.com/

[March 7 update: According to their website, the new location of Mexica Burrito Grill in Billerica is now open, and it is indeed a second location.]

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[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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Zen Asian Fusion to Open in the Former Trinktisch/Craft Beer Cellar Space in Belmont

The people behind a local group of Asian restaurants will be opening a new dining spot in the western suburbs of Boston, and it will move into the space where a beer hall and specialty beer shop had been.

According to a source (via an article from The Belmont Voice),  Zen Asian Fusion is planning to open in Belmont Center, taking over the former Trinktisch/Craft Beer Cellar space on Leonard Street. The article mentions that the upcoming spot will be part of Karma Restaurant Group (which has locations of Karma in Concord, Winchester, Wellesley, Burlington, and Westford), and it will include a sushi bar and offer a "lounge vibe" with cocktails offered, while the lower level of the space will be used as a commissary kitchen for the restaurant group. If all goes as planned, Zen Asian Fusion will open later this year.

Trinktisch and Craft Beer Cellar said farewell to Belmont at the end of 2023.

It appears that the address for Zen Asian Fusion will be 87 Leonard Street, Belmont, MA, 02478.

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[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, February 19, 2025

Beyond Full to Open in the Former Zoe's Space in Cambridge's Harvard Square

It looks like a comfort food spot southwest of Boston is expanding to Cambridge, taking over the space where a diner that offered a mix of Greek and American fare had been.

According to a poster (Geoff Wong) within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page as well as an article from What Now Boston, Beyond Full is planning to open in Harvard Square, moving into the former Zoe's space on Massachusetts Avenue. The upcoming dining spot, whose original restaurant can be found in Hopedale, focuses on breakfast dishes, burgers, and shakes, and it is actually located inside Hopedale's Town Hall.

Zoe's closed last summer after being in business for approximately 20 years.

The address for the upcoming location of Beyond Full in Harvard Square is 1105 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The Facebook page for the original location is at https://www.facebook.com/beyondfullinc/

[Earlier Article]
Zoe's in Cambridge's Harvard Square Has Closed

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[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 Daily Catch to Open a Takeout Spot in Boston's North End

A trio of Sicilian-style seafood restaurants will soon be joined by a to-go spot near one of its locations.

According to an Instagram post from @conciergeboston, The Daily Catch is planning to open a takeout/delivery shop in the North End of Boston, taking over the former Sweet Boba space on the same block of Hanover Street as one of the Daily Catch restaurants. Once it opens, the upcoming shop will join the North End dining spot as well as locations in Boston's Seaport District and Brookline's Coolidge Corner, and expect the place to offer a variety of seafood options including such possible items as calamari, clams, oysters, octopus, mussels, lobster, scallops, shrimp, haddock, and swordfish, based on their restaurant menu.

Sweet Boba first opened in the Hanover Street space in the summer of 2023, taking over the space that had been home to China House for more than 20 years.

The address for the upcoming Daily Catch takeout shop is 331 Hanover Street, Boston, MA, 02113. The website for the business is at https://thedailycatch.com/

[Earlier Article]
Sweet Boba in Boston's North End Has Closed

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[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, February 18, 2025

Leo's Events and Restaurant Is Opening in Braintree

A year and a half ago, it was reported that the person behind a couple of steakhouses and an Italian dining and drinking spot south of Boston was planning to open another restaurant south of the city, and now we have learned that the place is opening soon, though with a different name and concept.

According to a source along with various social media posts from the business, Leo's Events and Restaurant is going to be opening in Braintree, with its social media mentioning "Braintree's premier destination for exceptional dining and unforgettable gatherings. Elegant spaces, exceptional cuisine, and warm hospitality await!" Owner Leo Keka (Alba in Quincy and Hanover, Zef Cicchetti & Raw Bar in Quincy) was originally planning for the place to be one of two locations of Scutari, a Northern Italian restaurant that is now open in Hanover, though it appears that somewhere along the way, the plans for the Braintree space (which is moving into the former Dunkin' Donuts University space on Granite Street) shifted from Scutari to Leo's Events and Restaurant.

The address for the upcoming Leo's Events and Restaurant is 589 Granite Street, Braintree, MA, 02184. Its Facebook page is at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572606675228 while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/leoseventsandrestaurant/

[Earlier Article]
Leo Keka Plans to Open Scutari in Braintree

(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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Monday, February 17, 2025

CSCA Cafe Opens in the Porter Square Section of Cambridge

Last spring, it was reported that a new cafe with a connection to a cooking school was in the works, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to a source, CSCA Cafe is now open in Cambridge, moving into a space across from the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts in the Porter Square area of the city. The Instagram page for the place indicates that it offers a variety of pastries and baked goods along with coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, and it has some seating within the space.

As mentioned in an earlier article, the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts says of its offshoot that "CSCA Cafe aims to become an integral part of the Porter Square Neighborhood, drawing upon CSCA's 50-year history within the community."

The address for CSCA Cafe is 1995 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02140. Its website is at https://www.cscacafe.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/cscacafe/

[Earlier Article]
CSCA Cafe Plans to Open in Cambridge's Porter Square (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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Restaurant News for the Week Ending February 16, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between February 10, 2025, and February 16, 2025.


Norinori Test Kitchen to Open in Brookline
The people behind a sushi spot and an upcoming French-Japanese fusion restaurant will be opening a new eatery that features Japanese fare.
Full Story

Rocco's Sports & Recreation in NYC to Expand to Boston's Seaport District
A retro-style sports bar that is based in Manhattan is making its way to the waterfront.
Full Story

Anna's Taqueria Plans to Open in the Former b.good Space in Natick
A local group of Mexican eateries continues to be in expansion mode.
Full Story

Coje Management Group to Open a Sicilian Restaurant in Downtown Boston
A local restaurant group is bringing a new dining spot to the heart of the city.
Full Story

Dae Gee Korean BBQ Opens in Chelmsford on February 14
A small group of Korean restaurants in Colorado that gained national recognition via a popular TV show is just about ready to expand to the local area.
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, February 14, 2025

Tasty Kabob and Curry Plans to Open in the Former Simco's Space in Roslindale

A new takeout spot is on its way to a space that had been home to a location of a pair of hot dog stands.

According to an article from Universal Hub, Tasty Kabob and Curry is planning to open in Roslindale, taking over the former Simco's space on Canterbury Street. The post mentions that owner Chaudhary Lateef--who runs a convenience store in Taunton--will operate the upcoming spot as a "quick‑service takeout‑only restaurant" that will be open until 11:00 PM.

The original location of Simco's remains open on Blue Hill Avenue in Mattapan.

The address for the upcoming Tasty Kabob and Curry is 679 Canterbury Street, Roslindale, MA, 02131.

(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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Norinori Test Kitchen to Open in Brookline

The people behind a sushi spot and an upcoming French-Japanese fusion restaurant will be opening a new eatery that features Japanese fare.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Norinori Test Kitchen is planning to open in Brookline, moving into a space on Chestnut Hill Avenue by Cleveland Circle. The article mentions that the upcoming place is expected to offer such items as handrolls, bento boxes, and limited-batch ramen while also having a full liquor license, and it will have an ownership connection to Matsunori Handroll Bar in Boston's Audubon Circle area and Mia, which will be opening in the Seaport District.

If all goes as planned, Norinori Test Kitchen will open in the second half of this year.

The address for the upcoming Norinori Test Kitchen is 399 Chestnut Hill Avenue, Brookline, MA, 02445. Its Instagram page can be found at http://instagram.com/norinori.japanese

(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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Dave's Hot Chicken Opens in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

Last summer, it was reported that a growing chain of chicken spots would be opening a new location in Boston, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to an article from MassLive, Dave's Hot Chicken is now open in the city's Fenway neighborhood, moving into the Bon apartment development on Boylston Street. The new outlet, which features tenders and sliders with varying heat levels, joins a number of others in the local area, including two others within the Boston city limits--in the Theatre District and at South Bay.

The address for the new location of Dave's Hot Chicken in the Fenway is 1260 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. Its website is at https://www.daveshotchicken.com/

[Earlier Article]
The Halal Guys, Dave's Hot Chicken Plan to Open at the Bon Apartment Complex in Boston's Fenway

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[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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Pho Bistro in Malden Has Closed

A Vietnamese restaurant located just north of Boston has shut down.

According to a source, Pho Bistro in Malden is no longer in operation, with a sign out front at the Pleasant Street space saying "It has been a pleasure to serve this community. Thank you for your patronage, your friendliness and your friendships that have made us such a success. We will miss you!" Pho Bistro first opened in Malden approximately 15 years ago, offering such options as pho, spring rolls, grilled pork with vermicelli, and more.

The address for the now-closed location of Pho Bistro in Malden was 8 Pleasant Street, Malden, MA, 02148.

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


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Thursday, February 13, 2025

Boston Halal to Open in the Former Blaze Pizza Space by Boston University

A local trio of restaurants that feature NYC-style street food will soon be opening a fourth outlet, and this one will be replacing a location of a pizza spot that closed a bit more than a year ago.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Boston Halal is going to be opening by Boston University, taking over the former Blaze Pizza space on Commonwealth Avenue. Once it opens, the new location of the Indian-Mediterranean spot will join others at Faneuil Hall, near Northeastern University, and in Somerville's Davis Square, and based on those dining spots, expect it to offer a variety of bowls and wraps.

The address for the upcoming location of Boston Halal by BU is 961 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for all locations is at https://bostonhalal.co/

(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, February 12, 2025

Rocco's Sports & Recreation in NYC to Expand to Boston's Seaport District

A retro-style sports bar that is based in Manhattan is making its way to the Boston waterfront.

According to an article from Boston Magazine along with an earlier post from What Now Boston, Rocco's Sports & Recreation is planning to open in the Seaport District, with an abutters meeting page indicating that it will apparently move into the building that houses Borrachito Taqueria & Spirits which is run by the same hospitality company (The Garret Group). Based on the original location in NoHo, expect such options as fried pickles, hummus, macaroni and cheese, smash burgers, tenders, wings, hot dogs, and more, along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

It looks like the address for the Seaport District location of Rocco's Sports & Recreation will be 70 Pier 4 Boulevard, Boston, MA, 02210. The website for the NYC location is at https://www.gotoroccos.com/

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[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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Nine Winters Bakery to Open in West Cambridge

The owner of a local bakery business will soon be opening a permanent location in Cambridge.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Nine Winters Bakery is planning to open on Concord Avenue in West Cambridge, moving into a space by the Walden Street intersection on the northern edge of the Huron Village neighborhood. Marissa Ferola, who is behind the new shop, started the business as a pop-up including at Honeycomb Ice Cream in Cambridge and then at Bow Market in Somerville; the new store will continue to offer baked goods and pastries with Korean influences while also expanding its menu to include lunch and dinner offerings.

If all goes as planned, the brick-and-mortar shop will open sometime this spring.

The address for the upcoming Nine Winters Bakery is 292 Concord Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for the business is at https://www.ninewinters.com/

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


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


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Phat Thaiger Is Opening in Malden

The people behind a couple of Thai restaurants just north of Boston will soon be opening a third spot nearby.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Phat Thaiger is planning to open in Malden, moving into a space on Eastern Avenue near Crying Thaiger on Ferry Street and Thaiger Den on Pleasant Street. The former is a Thai spot that opened in 2017 and the latter is a more upscale Thai restaurant that opened last year, and the new eatery will be a Thai and Japanese izakaya that features such options as pad kee mow with yakisoba noodles, pad thai with udon noodles, Hokkaido scallops with curry custard, yellowtail crudo with ponzu sauce, hot pot with Japanese and Thai influences, and yakitori-style skewers with Thai spices and marinades, while drinks will include martinis, sake, and more.

If all goes as planned, Phat Thaiger will open later this month.

The address for Phat Thaiger is 166 Eastern Avenue, Malden, MA, 02148.

[April 25 update: According to its social media along with a new article from Boston Magazine, Phat Thaiger is now open.]

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[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, February 11, 2025

Anna's Taqueria Is Opening in the Former b.good Space in Natick

A few days ago, it was reported that a local group of dining spots had closed another one of their locations, and now we have learned that a growing local group of Mexican eateries is taking over the space.

According to an article from MetroWest Daily News, Anna's Taqueria is planning to open in Natick, moving into the former b.good space on Route 9. This follows a trend of b.good outlets closing and Anna's outlets replacing them, as the Woburn location of b.good is now home to Anna's while the Northeastern University location of b.good is also becoming a location of Anna's as well. (Both b.good and Anna's Taqueria are under the same parent company--Streetlight Ventures.)

In addition to the upcoming locations of Anna's Taqueria in Natick and Woburn, another one has been proposed for South Boston.

The address for the upcoming location of Anna's Taqueria in Natick (which hopes to open in about three months) is 1265 Worcester Street (Route 9), Natick, MA, 01760. The website for all locations is at https://annas.com/

[May 15 update: According to a press release, the Natick location of Anna's Taqueria is now open, and this is its first location to use house-made masa to make the corn tortillas for its tacos (this will soon be available at all locations).]

[Earlier Article]
b.good in Natick Has Closed

(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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Coje Management Group to Open a Sicilian Restaurant in Downtown Boston

A local restaurant group is in expansion mode once again, with a new dining spot on its way to the heart of Boston.

According to an article within the Restaurant Hospitality website, Coje Management Group is making plans to open an as-of-yet unnamed Sicilian restaurant in Post Office Square, moving into the same building as two of their other places--Mariel and Underground. In the article, COJE chief executive and co-founder Chris Jamison gives a bit of information on the upcoming dining spot, saying that "We're approaching it with a signature twist, I think....We're taking a look at Sicilian cuisine, which is an incredible melting pot of a number of different cultures -- North African, Arabic, Middle Eastern, Greek, French. The island's been conquered 400 times, so there's so many layers to the cuisine that has developed there." The new restaurant--which will also have a members-only club downstairs--is currently under construction and no opening date has been given yet.

In addition to Mariel and Underground, Coje Management Group also runs such spots as Yvonne's, Caveau, Ruka, Coquette, Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bars, and Mr. H.

(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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Monday, February 10, 2025

News Elsewhere: dNB Craft Kitchen in New Bedford Is Up for Sale

A restaurant on the South Coast of Massachusetts that is known for its burgers is on the market.

According to a Facebook post from the business, dNB Craft Kitchen is for sale, with the post saying the following:

After 10 years of burgers, unforgettable memories, and an incredible dnb community we're ready to pass the torch. dNB Craft Kitchen, our family-owned spot, is up for sale. It's been a wild ride, and now it's your turn to keep the flavor and good vibes going♥️🍔 thank you all for 10years!

A South Coast today article mentions (via a Bold Real Estate listing) that the $100,000 asking price for the Purchase Street spot includes "all operational assets, including the liquor license, the lease, kitchen and dining items, recipes, and more.

dNB Craft Kitchen first started out in 2014 as dNB Burgers on Elm Street, moving to its current location in 2020.

The address for dNB Craft Kitchen is 768 Purchase Street, New Bedford, MA, 02740.

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[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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Dae Gee Korean BBQ Is Opening in Chelmsford

A small group of Korean restaurants in Colorado that gained national recognition via a popular TV show is just about ready to expand to Massachusetts, with a location opening north of Boston.

According to a source (Gary Goldblatt) who sent us a link to a Facebook reel from the business, Dae Gee Korean BBQ is opening in Chelmsford on February 14, moving into a space on Parkhurst Road just off Route 3 in the Drum Hill area of town. Dae Gee, which was featured on Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," is known in part for its "unlimited BBQ" with various bulgogi options along with pork belly, short ribs, brisket, chicken dumplings, and more, while also serving such entrees as tofu stew, bee beem bhop, and grilled mackerel.

The address for the new location of Dae Gee Korean BBQ in Chelmsford is 83 Parkhurst Road, Chelmsford, MA, 01824. The website for the business is at https://daegee.com/

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[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 February 9, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between February 3, 2025, and February 9, 2025.


Si Cara Plans to Open in South Boston
A Cambridge restaurant known in part for its pizza could be joined by a second location.
Full Story

Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley Plans to Open in the Former Nusr-et Steakhouse Space in the Back Bay
It looks like a small group of southern comfort food restaurants with roots in Texas could be expanding to Boston.
Full Story

b.good in Natick Has Closed
A local group of dining spots continues to shrink, as yet another outlet has shut down.
Full Story

Ocho Cafe to Open in the Former Purple Shell Space in South Boston
A small regional group of Mexican restaurants will be expanding further into the local area, opening its first dining spot within the Boston city limits.
Full Story

Picco in the South End to Expand, Opening Another Location in Marlborough
A highly-rated pizza spot in Boston that is also known for its ice cream is expanding to a space in MetroWest.
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, February 07, 2025

Tradesman Coffee Shop and Lounge Plans to Open at Boston Landing in Brighton

A local restaurant group is planning to open another location of one of its concepts, and this will reside within a mixed-use development along the Mass. Pike.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Tradesman is looking to open at Boston Landing in Brighton, with the Guest Street space including various dining areas and a bar along with a seasonal outdoor patio. A page within the lendlease.com site mentions that the new location would be on the first floor of FORUM, which is a nine-story life sciences development, and it will offer an all-day menu of baked goods, sandwiches, and more while also serving coffee and espresso, beer, wine, and cocktails.

The team behind Tradesman (MNM Restaurant Group) runs three other locations in Boston along with Fin Point Oyster Bar, Amber Road and Urban Wild.

The address for the upcoming Tradesman is 60 Guest Street, Brighton, MA, 02135.

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Si Cara Plans to Open in South Boston

A Cambridge restaurant known in part for its pizza could be joined by a second location in South Boston.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Si Cara is looking to open on West Broadway in Southie, moving into a space that would include a dining area and bar on the first floor and an additional dining section at the basement level. If approved, the new location would join the original on Mass. Ave. in Central Square, and it would presumably offer Neapolitan-style pizza along with a variety of wines.

Si Cara first opened in Cambridge in the summer of 2022, with Michael Lombardi of SRV in Boston's South End being behind it.

The address for the proposed location of Si Cara in South Boston is 400 West Broadway, South Boston, MA, 02127. The website for the original location is at https://sicarapizza.com/

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Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley Plans to Open in the Former Nusr-et Steakhouse Space in Boston's Back Bay

It looks like a small group of southern comfort food restaurants with roots in Texas could be expanding to Boston.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the city's website, Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley is looking to open in the Back Bay, moving into the space on Arlington Street that had previously been home to Nusr-et Steakhouse. If approved, the new location would join the original restaurant in Dallas along with others in Chicago, Washington, DC, Charlotte, and Atlanta, and based on those locations, some of the offerings could include such items as fried green tomatoes, seafood gumbo, southern fried chicken, pork chops, chicken fried steak, shrimp and grits, fried catfish, chicken and waffles, and fried okra.

Nusret Gökçe (AKA Salt Bae) first opened the Boston location of Nusr-et Steakhouse in 2020, taking over the space where Nahita had been, and before that, Liquid Art House.

The address for the proposed location of Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley is 100 Arlington Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for all locations is at https://kitchenkocktailsusa.com/

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Gina's Lebanese Cuisine Opens in Quincy

A new dining spot that features Middle Eastern food has opened on the South Shore.

According to a poster within the Quincy Is Everything Facebook group page, Gina's Lebanese Cuisine is now open in Quincy Point, moving into a space on Route 3A a few blocks east of where it meets Route 53. The menu for the new spot--which focuses on takeout but has some limited seating--including such options as stuffed grape leaves, falafel, beef kabab, hummus, spinach pie, baba ganouj, chicken shwarma, baked kibbeh, and more.

The address for Gina's Lebanese Cuisine is 529 Washington Street (Route 3A), Quincy, MA, 02169. (The restaurant does not have a website as of yet.)

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Thursday, February 06, 2025

Wen's Yunnan Noodle & Ramen in Downtown Boston Has Apparently Closed

It looks like one of two restaurants featuring "crossing-the-bridge noodles" has very quietly shut down.

According to a Bluesky post from @ruthz.bsky.social, Wen's Yunnan Noodle & Ramen on Tremont Street has been closed for a few weeks now, with the tables and chairs being mostly gone, while a check on the website for Wen's shows only the Newbury Street location. Wen's first opened on Tremont Street in 2018, offering Yunnan-style rice noodle soup, which is typically found in the extreme southwest corner of China, along with ramen, bubble tea, and more.

The address for the now-closed location of Wen's Yunnan Noodle & Ramen in downtown Boston was 145 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02111. The website for the Back Bay location can be found at https://www.wensnoodle.com/

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Coreanos in Allston Expands to Second Location in Framingham

A Korean fusion restaurant in a Boston neighborhood has expanded, opening a new outlet in the MetroWest area.

According to Kiat Cormier, who posted on the ChewOnThis Facebook group page, Coreanos is now open in Framingham, with the Route 9 eatery joining its original on Brighton Avenue in Allston. The website for Coreanos says that when it first opened in Allston in 2016, it had "a simple mission: to offer quality Korean food to Boston. Offering traditional dishes to Mexican fusion and everything in between, there's something for everyone. All the sauces and ingredients are made in house, and each item is prepared to order to ensure freshness."

The address for the new location of Coreanos is 1255 Worcester Road (Route 9), Framingham, MA, 01701. The website for the Allston location is at https://www.coreanosallston.com/

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Aurora Market & Bakery Opens in Boston's South End

A new food shop has come to a Boston neighborhood.

According to a poster within the South End Community Board, Aurora Market & Bakery is now open at the corner of Tremont Street and Union Park in the South End, with the place offering soups, salads, and sandwiches, and dinner items. A message from the place within a Google search indicates that it is a Greek market, and a menu shown includes such items as souvlaki, falafel, lentil soup, fried calamari, pastitsio, saganaki, roast lamb, stuffed peppers, rice pilaf, and roasted potatoes.

The address for Aurora Market & Bakery in the South End is 570 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02118.

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Wednesday, February 05, 2025

Singh's Roti Shop Is Opening at Revere Beach

It looks like the person behind an Indian-Caribbean fusion spot in Boston is opening a new location along the water just north of the city.

According to a Facebook post, Singh's Roti Shop is coming to Revere Beach, moving into a space on  Revere Beach Boulevard a couple of blocks from the Revere Beach T Station. The person behind the upcoming eatery is Ricki Singh, who runs a location of the restaurant on Columbia Road in Dorchester, and based on that location, expect a variety of roti dishes that include flat roti bread with such options as goat, chicken, shrimp, beef, pork, oxtail, and vegetables.

The address for the new location of Singh's Roti Shop at Revere Beach is 76 Revere Beach Boulevard, Revere, MA, 02151. The website for the business is at http://www.singhsrotishop.net/

[March 10 update: According to Ricki Singh's Facebook page, the Revere Beach location of Singh's Roti Shop is now open.]

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Anna's Taqueria Seeks Approval to Open in South Boston

A local group of Mexican eateries that has been in expansion mode of late could be opening another outlet, though plans are in their early stages.

According to an article from Caught in Southie, Anna's Taqueria is looking to open in South Boston, with the plan being to move into a space on West Broadway a short distance west of the Dorchester Street intersection. The article mentions that the proposal drew a "mixed reaction" in an abutters meeting that was held last week with concerns including congestion from delivery traffic and a potential glut of restaurants in the neighborhood, which has seen a number of dining spots open in recent times. The people behind Anna's will need to meet with the Cityside Neighborhood Association, the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the licensing board before the proposal can become reality.

Currently, locations of Anna's can be found in Boston (three), Cambridge, Somerville, Brookline, and Newton, along with a new outlet in Woburn--and another at Northeastern is in the works as well.

The address for the proposed location of Anna's Taqueria in South Boston is 457-469A W Broadway, South Boston, MA, 02127. The website for all locations is at https://annas.com/

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