Boston Restaurant Talk: March 2025

Monday, March 31, 2025

Ebisuya Japanese Market in Medford Is Closing

A Japanese grocery store just north of Boston that is known in part for its ramen and sushi is shutting down.

According to multiple sources, Ebisuya Japanese Market is getting ready to close, with a Facebook post from the Riverside Avenue spot saying the following:

Dear Precious Customers, We want to update you on critical matters at Ebisuya... We planned to stay open for the next years to come, but sadly, we have been told that the building in which Ebisuya is housed will be demolished this summer. This means that Ebisuya will be closing by the end of May 2025.

The post does mention that Ebisuya Japanese Noodle House in Malden will remain open and that Kevin's Bread (which is made in-house daily) will continue to be available online, while also noting that customers need to use their rewards card points because they will "expire with the store."

The address for Ebisuya Japanese Market is 65 Riverside Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155. Its website is at https://www.ebisuyamarket.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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Madras Dosa Co. to Open at The Street Chestnut Hill

A fast-casual Indian restaurant with two locations in the Boston area will be opening a third, and this one will be a few miles west of the city.

According to a Threads post from @daryldonatelli, Madras Dosa Co. is planning to open at The Street Chestnut Hill, with this being confirmed in a Facebook post from the business which says, "Dosa, don’t mind if we do. @madrasdosaco is coming soon to The Street. This South Indian spot will be your go-to for dosa, chaats, pulaos, & more. Keep your eyes (and appetites) open for more details on opening." The Threads post mentions that the restaurant will apparently be going into the space where a location of The Bagel Table had been for approximately 7 years before recently shutting down.

Other locations of Madras Dosa Co. can be found in Boston's Seaport District and Harvard Square in Cambridge, along with others in New York City and New Jersey. The website for all locations is at https://madrasdosaco.com/

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

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

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

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 30, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between March 24, 2025, and March 30, 2025.

El Barco May Be Coming to the Back Bay
It looks like a Mexican restaurant on Martha's Vineyard may be expanding to Boston.
Full Story

Render Coffee in Boston's South End Is Closing
The original location of what had once been a small group of coffee bars is shutting down, leaving only one remaining.
Full Story

Mr. Tamole Is Opening at Boston Public Market
The people behind a business that sells Mexican goods in a variety of stores in the region are opening a restaurant in an indoor marketplace in downtown Boston.
Full Story

Sergeant Burgers to Open at the Burlington Mall
A burger spot that recently opened in Lowell will be expanding to a space closer to Boston.
Full Story

Guy Fieri's Boston Kitchen + Bar in Downtown Boston Has Closed
A restaurant that had a celebrity chef/restaurateur behind it has very quietly shut down after being in business for a bit more than three years.
Full Story

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

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

Friday, March 28, 2025

Update: Jade's Restaurant in Peabody Remains Open After Announcement of Its Closure

[Ed note: This article was updated on April 7 to reflect the fact that the restaurant continues to be in operation.]

It looks like an old-school Chinese restaurant on the North Shore could be shutting down at some point, though it remains open for now.

According to a Facebook post from the place on March 27, Jade's Restaurant in Peabody appeared to be getting ready to close its doors, with the post saying the following:

After 30 incredible years, it's with a heavy heart that we say goodbye. We've shared so many wonderful memories together—celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings, and countless special moments with you all. From the first bite of your favorite dish to the familiar faces we've come to know so well, it's been an honor to be part of your lives. We're sad to close this chapter. Please join us for our last weekend to celebrate these beautiful memories. Thank you for being part of our journey—we'll miss you!

However, a new Facebook post from April 6 says that the restaurant now remains open "indefinitely," though no other details have been given.

Jade's Restaurant is known in part for its Chinese-American fare along with its Polynesian drinks.

The address for Jade's Restaurant is 4 Bourbon Street, Peabody, MA, 01960. Its website can be found at https://www.jadesrestaurant.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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Martha's Vineyard's El Barco Is Coming to Boston's Back Bay for the Spring and Summer

[Ed note: This article was updated on March 31 to reflect new information given.]

It looks like a Mexican restaurant on Martha's Vineyard is on its way to Boston for the warmer months.

According to a licensing board hearing page, Shack Foods of Back Bay LLC has petitioned change its DBA to El Barco, with the address given being 50 Dalton Street. This also happens to be the address of a location of Summer Shack, and restaurateur Patrick Lyons is behind both Summer Shack and El Barco--and a press release sent today indicates that the plan is for El Barco to pop up within the Summer Shack space from April 17 into the spring and summer months.

The press release says that El Barco at Summer Shack will be open for lunch and dinner daily, and it will include such options as tacos, burritos, and margaritas.

The website for the Martha's Vineyard location of El Barco--which debuted in 2024--can be found at https://elbarcomv.com/ while the website for the location in Boston will be at https://elbarcoboston.com/

[April 21 update: Multiple sources have confirmed that El Barco is now open within the Summer Shack space in the Back Bay.]

(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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Render Coffee in Boston's South End Is Closing

The original location of what had once been a small group of coffee bars is shutting down, leaving only one remaining.

According to a poster within the South End Community Board Facebook group page, Render Coffee on Columbus Avenue is planning to close on April 5, with another poster showing a photo of a sign out front saying "Coming Soon: New Bakery/Coffee Generation." Once the South End location of Render Coffee, closes, the only location left will be in Boston's Seaport District; there had also been outlets in the Financial District and Charlestown, but those are no longer in operation.

The South End location of Render first opened in 2012, taking over the space where Uptown Espresso had once been.

The address for Render Coffee is 563 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA, 02119. The website for the business is at https://www.rendercoffeebar.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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Thursday, March 27, 2025

Mr. Tamole Is Opening at Boston Public Market

The people behind a business that sells Mexican goods in a variety of stores in the region are opening a restaurant in an indoor marketplace in downtown Boston.

Boston Magazine is reporting that Mr. Tamole is opening at Boston Public Market, offering such options as tamales, tacos, and tortas at their stall. The mother-and-son team behind the business focus on dishes and products using family recipes from Puebla (a city in East-Central Mexico), and items they are known for that can be purchased at shops locally (as well as online) include salsa and mole paste.

The website for Mr. Tamole is at https://www.mrtamole.com/

[May 1 update: According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Mr. Tamole is now open at Boston Public Market.]

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

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

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

Trencito Taqueria & Deli Opens in the Former Tap Tap Station Cafe Space in Waltham

A new dining spot that offers Mexican food and more has come to Waltham.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Trencito Taqueria & Deli is now open on Carter Street, taking over the space that had been home to Tap Tap Station Cafe. A Facebook post from The Waltham Channel gives more information, saying that it offers breakfast, pizza, and sandwiches, while its menu shows such items as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, nachos, pupusas, gorditas, and more.

The Waltham Channel mentions that the people behind Trencito Taqueria & Deli also run New York Taco & Pizza on Lexington Street in Waltham, and that the menu items are similar at the two places.

The address for Trencito Taqueria & Deli is 3 Carter Street, Waltham, MA, 02453. Its website is at https://www.trencito-taqueria-deli-pizza.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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Playa Bowls Is Opening in South Boston

A couple of years ago, it was reported that a New Jersey-based chain of dining spots was planning to open in South Boston, and now we have learned that it is just about ready to debut, though in a different space than what was originally thought.

According to a post from Caught In Southie, Playa Bowls is opening on W Broadway on Saturday, March 29, though its address will be 471 W Broadway rather than 359 W Broadway. The new outlet will offer smoothies and bowls, and it will join other locations locally in Brighton by Boston College, near Northeastern University in Boston, Cambridge's Harvard Square, Winchester, East Milton Square, Canton, Westwood, Brockton, and Wellesley.

The website for the Playa Bowls chain can be found at https://www.playabowls.com/

[Earlier Article]
Playa Bowls to Open in South Boston, Replacing The Juice Box

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

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

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

Koro Ramen + Sushi Is Opening in East Boston

A new option for Japanese fare is on its way to East Boston.

According to an article from Caught in Eastie and an earlier post from the East Boston Times-Free Press, Koro Ramen + Sushi is opening in the Jeffries Point area, with the address indicating that it is moving into the space on Sumner Street that had been home to Mehak. The East Boston Times-Free Press article mentions that Raffaele Scalzi (Pazza on Porter, Next Door Speakeasy and Raw Bar) is behind the place and Caught in Eastie says that Chef Harold (who brings "16 years of experience in sushi restaurants, a personal chef, and cooking classes") is also involved.

The address for Koro Ramen + Sushi is 329 Sumner Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/eatkoro/ while its website is at https://www.eatkoro.com/

[May 19 update: According to its social media, Koro Sushi + Ramen 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]

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

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Update: Ed Sheeran Is Bringing a Pop-up Pub to Ipswich on Friday, March 28

[Ed note: This article was updated on March 28 to reflect new information given.]

One of the biggest names in music has a temporary pub in the works for the North Shore.

According to a message sent from @IrishEyesPhoto1, Ed Sheeran is behind The Old Phone, a pub in Ipswich, with an article from Northshore Magazine mentioning that "Ed Sheeran is rumored to be building a pub in Ipswich, Massachusetts, this spring." The Local News says that the town select board has approved of a one-day wine and malt application for the place on Friday, March 28 at the Old Mill building on the southern edge of Ipswich's downtown area, which indicates that this is just a popup event on Friday, which NBC Boston has since confirmed. (A check on the website for the pub also mentions the March 28 date.)

Sheeran, who has ties to Ipswich, England, was recently in Boston, including making a trip to The Dubliner where he played an acoustic set.

(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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Bonanza Bites & Cocktails to Open in the Former Cornerstone Space in Somerville

A couple of weeks ago, it was reported that a Somerville restaurant that was ordered closed earlier this year by the Board of Health had shut down for good, and now we have learned that a new dining spot is moving into the space.

According to a Bluesky post from @troysch1.bsky.social, Bonanza Bites & Cocktails is planning to open on Beacon Street, taking over the space where The Cornerstone had been. A Reddit thread indicates that the upcoming eatery will be "a South and Central American tapas / cocktails bar" while a poster within the thread mentions that it will be under different ownership from the former Cornerstone, which had replaced R.F. O'Sullivan & Son in 2023, then changing management last summer before being shut down by the Board of Health for unspecified reasons in January.

This appears to have no connection to the Bonanza chain of casual steakhouses that once had locations in the Greater Boston area.

The address for the upcoming Bonanza Bites & Cocktails is 282 Beacon Street, Somerville, MA, 02143. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/bonanzasomerville/

[Earlier Article]
The Cornerstone in Somerville Has Closed Permanently

(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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Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Aaron's Taco Cart'el in Stoneham Is Apparently Closed; Exact Status Unknown

It looks like a taco spot in the northern suburbs of Boston is shuttered, and it is not known what the future holds for the business.

According to a source, Aaron's Taco Cart'el in Stoneham appears to be closed, with a phone call to the Central Street place indicating that the phone is out of service while a check on its website shows that the ordering page is down, as is the events page. The restaurant first opened in 2018, previously being a mobile taco stand found at various spots in the Boston area and beyond, including farmers markets, festivals, and food truck sites.

The address for Aaron's Taco Cart'el was 8 Central Street, Stoneham, MA, 02180. The website for the business can be found at https://www.aaronstacocartel.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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Sergeant Burgers to Open at the Burlington Mall

A burger spot that recently opened in Lowell will be expanding to a space closer to Boston.

According to posters within a thread on the Merrimack Valley Eats Facebook group page, Sergeant Burgers is planning to open at the Burlington Mall, with a Boston Real Estate Times article confirming this. Once it opens this summer, the new location will join its original on Middlesex Street in Lowell, and based on that location, expect the new outlet to offer burgers, shakes, and possibly other food/drink items with Brazilian influences.

The Instagram page for the Lowell location of Sergeant Burgers can be found at https://www.instagram.com/sergeantburgers/

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

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

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

Monday, March 24, 2025

Guy Fieri's Boston Kitchen + Bar in Downtown Boston Has Closed

It looks like a restaurant in the heart of Boston that had a celebrity chef/restaurateur behind it has very quietly shut down after being in business for a bit more than three years.

According to multiple sources, including a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Guy Fieri's Boston Kitchen + Bar on Tremont Street is no longer in business, with a check on Fieri's website indicating that the web page for the restaurant has been removed. Based on commenters within the Facebook group, it appears that the dining spot actually shuttered last month, and this is the second restaurant from Fieri in Boston to close, as Guy Fieri's Tequila Cocina at the Hub on Causeway shut down in the fall of 2023.

The space in which Guy Fieri's Boston Kitchen + Bar was located was previously home to a restaurant called Explorateur, with both dining spots residing in the Grand Lodge of Masons building.

The address for the now-closed Guy Fieri's Boston Kitchen + Bar was 186 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for Guy Fieri's other restaurants is at https://www.guyfieri.com/eat-at-guys

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

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

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

Restaurant News for the Week Ending March 23, 2025

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

Kiin Is Getting Ready to Open in East Cambridge
A new Asian restaurant will soon be opening in Cambridge after being in the works for nearly two years.
Full Story

Cafe Reynard Opens Inside Idle Hands Craft Ales in Malden
A brand new cafe has opened just north of Boston, and it resides inside a brewery.
Full Story

The Panini Press Opens in the Former Take Away Space in Norwood
A new option for sandwiches has debuted southwest of Boston, taking over the space where a neighborhood restaurant known in part for its seafood had once been.
Full Story

LaRosa's in Andover to Expand, Opening a New Location in Newburyport
A new option for sandwiches has debuted southwest of Boston, taking over the space where a neighborhood restaurant known in part for its seafood had once been.
Full Story

The Bagel Table at The Street Chestnut Hill Has Closed
The first location of a local group of bagel shops has shut down.
Full Story

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

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

Friday, March 21, 2025

PopUp Bagels to Open at Assembly Row in Somerville

A few days ago, it was reported that a growing group of bagel shops that started out as a backyard pickup window in Connecticut would be opening another Boston-area location, and now we have learned that yet another is on the way as well.

According to a press release, PopUp Bagels is planning to open in Somerville, moving into the former ARow Express convenience store space on Revolution Drive at Assembly Row. Once it opens, the new shop will join another in Boston's Seaport District, and it will either be the second or third standalone location locally depending on when another one in the works in Cambridge's Harvard Square gets up and running (both the Cambridge and Somerville locations are slated to open later this year).

PopUp Bagels, which started out in Westport in 2020 with founder Adam Goldberg selling bagels out of his house, also sells bagels within Captain Mardens in Wellesley.

The address for the upcoming PopUp Bagels at Assembly Row is 495 Revolution Drive, Somerville, MA, 02145. The website for the business is at https://www.popupbagels.com/

[July 14 update: According to a new press release, PopUp Bagels is planning to open its Assembly Row location on July 25.]

[Earlier Article]
PopUp Bagels Is Opening in Cambridge's Harvard 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]

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

Kiin Is Opening in East Cambridge

A new Asian restaurant will soon be opening in Cambridge after being in the works for nearly two years.

According to a Bluesky post from @troysch1.bsky.social, Kiin looks like it is close to opening in the former Similans space on First Street in East Cambridge, with an Instagram post from @bostonbudgetplumbing this week seeming to confirm this, saying that "Our team is all smiles as we help @kiinthaisushi make necessary plumbing + gas repairs for their grand opening in Cambridge!" The Instagram page for the restaurant mentions that the restaurant will feature sushi, ramen, and Thai food while also saying that it is affiliated with Chicken & Co in North Cambridge.

The address for Kiin is 145 First Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142. Its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/kiinthaisushi/

[April 30 update: A new post from @troysch1.bsky.social indicates that Kiin is now open in East Cambridge.]

[Earlier Article]
Kiin Thai Plans to Open in the Former Similans Space in East Cambridge

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

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

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

Thursday, March 20, 2025

Cafe Reynard Opens Inside Idle Hands Craft Ales in Malden

A brand new cafe has opened just north of Boston, and it resides inside a brewery.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Cafe Reynard is now open in Malden, moving into the Idle Hands Craft Ales space on Commercial Street. The article mentions that the new spot is, as co-owner, founder, and roaster Eddy Martinez calls it, a "trans-run, worker-owned queer cafe and coffee roaster" that in addition to coffee, also offers doughnuts at least twice a week on most weeks from Kate Holowchik of Lionheart Confections. The cafe currently operates within the brewery Monday through Thursday from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM and on Sundays from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM.

The address for Cafe Reynard (and Idle Hands) is 89 Commercial Street, Malden, MA, 02148. The website for Cafe Reynard is at https://www.cafe-reynard.com/ while the website for Idle Hands is at https://www.idlehandscraftales.com/

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

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

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

The Panini Press Opens in the Former Take Away Space in Norwood

A new option for sandwiches has debuted southwest of Boston, taking over the space where a neighborhood restaurant known in part for its seafood had once been.

According to a source, The Panini Press is now open in Norwood, moving into the space on Chapel Street where The Take Away was until closing in the fall of 2022. The new eatery offers a variety of panini including turkey, ham, roast beef, tuna, pastrami, chicken salad, veggie, BLT, and grilled cheese, along with an Italian with mortadella, salami, capicola, provolone, hots, oil, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion.

The address for The Panini Press is 82 Chapel Street, Norwood, MA, 02062. Its Facebook page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574142638480

(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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Cava Plans to Open in the Former La Paloma Space in Quincy

Earlier this week, it was reported that a Washington, D.C.-based group of fast-casual Mediterranean spots was looking to expand to a space south of Boston, and now we have learned that another outlet is in the works as well south of the city.

According to multiple sources along with an article in the Patriot Ledger, Cava is planning to open in Quincy, moving into the old La Paloma space on Newport Avenue between Wollaston and North Quincy. Once it opens, the new dining spot will join others in Boston, Cambridge, Chelmsford, Dedham, Framingham, Hanover, Hingham, and Mansfield.

Another location of Cava may be coming to the site on Union Street in Braintree that had once been home to Motel 6, but those plans are in their very early stages.

The address for the upcoming location of Cava in Quincy is 195 Newport Avenue, Quincy, MA, 02170. The website for all locations is at https://cava.com/

[Earlier Article]
Cava May Be Opening 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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Wednesday, March 19, 2025

LaRosa's in Andover to Expand, Opening a New Location in Newburyport

The people behind an Italian restaurant north of Boston will be opening a second location, with this one also being north of the city.

According to a source, LaRosa's in Andover is going to be joined by a location in Newburyport, with the Facebook page for the business indicating that it will be moving into a space in the Market Square section of the city. Based on their restaurant on Barnard Street in the downtown area of Andover, the new outlet could be offering such items as burrata, arancini, bruschetta, mussels, Caesar salad, gnocchi, bolognese, chicken parm, veal marsala, salmon, and cod.

The address for the new location of LaRosa's in Newburyport is 35 Market Square, Newburyport, MA, 01950. The website for the business can be found at https://www.larosasofandover.com/

[June 23 update: According to its social media, LaRosa's is now open in Newburyport.]

(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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Golden Goose Market in Boston's North End to Expand to Charlestown

A longtime neighborhood market in the North End of Boston will soon be expanding across the water.

According to a source, Golden Goose Market on Commercial Street is planning to open a new location in Charlestown, with an Instagram post from the business saying "The rumor is true! We are a few months away from offering the same friendly customer based service in the Navy Yard! We will keep you posted." A Caught in Charlestown article indicates that the new shop plans to offer alcohol, while also selling such items as produce, meats, and specialty products.

The website for Golden Goose Market can be found at https://www.goldengoosemarket.com/

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

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

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

Cava May Be Opening in Braintree

A Washington, D.C.-based group of fast-casual Mediterranean spots is looking to expand even further into the Greater Boston area, with another one proposed for a location just off Route 3 south of the city.

According to multiple sources along with an article from the Patriot Ledger, Cava is hoping to open a new outlet in Braintree, moving into the site on Union Street that had once been home to a Motel 6. The plans are in their very early stages as the company has signed a letter of intent for the dining spot to be part of redevelopment plans for the site, so a number of steps need to be taken before it can become reality.

Cava has opened a number of locations locally over the past few years, including ones in Boston, Cambridge, Dedham, Framingham, Hanover, Hingham, and Mansfield, along with a brand new one in Chelmsford. (Its first Boston-area location debuted in the Fenway in early 2018.)

The address for the proposed location of Cava in Braintree is 125 Union Street, Braintree, MA, 02184. The website for all locations is at https://cava.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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Tuesday, March 18, 2025

The Bagel Table at The Street Chestnut Hill Has Closed

The first location of a local group of bagel shops has shut down.

According to a source, The Bagel Table at The Street Chestnut Hill is no longer in business, with social media pages for the business saying that "We have appreciated your support over the past 7 years. We truly enjoyed serving you and we want to thank you, your families, and the entire The Street Chestnut Hill community. We are sad to say goodbye and we will miss you." Locations of The Bagel Table in Ashland, Brighton, Maynard, Natick, and Wayland remain in operation.

The Chestnut Hill location of The Bagel Table first opened in January of 2018, taking over the space where a location of Rosie's Bakery had once been (Rosie's products can still be found at various businesses throughout the Greater Boston area).

The website for The Bagel Table is at https://mybageltable.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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PopUp Bagels Is Opening in Cambridge's Harvard Square

A growing group of bagel shops that started out as a backyard pickup window in Connecticut is opening another Boston-area location.

According to a press release, PopUp Bagels is planning to open in Cambridge, moving into a space at the corner of Mass. Ave. and Church Street. Once it opens later this year, the new shop will offer a variety of bagels and "schmears," and it will join another in Boston's Seaport District. (Their bagels can also be purchased within Captain Mardens in Wellesley as well.)

PopUp Bagels started out in Westport in 2020 with founder Adam Goldberg selling bagels out of his house.

The address for the upcoming PopUp Bagels in Harvard Square is 1430 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for the business can be found at https://www.popupbagels.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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Monday, March 17, 2025

Lobstah on a Roll in Boston's South End Has Apparently Closed

It looks like the original location of a restaurant known in part for its oversized lobster rolls has shut down.

According to a poster within the South End Community Board Facebook group page, Lobstah on a Roll in Boston's South End is no longer in business, with a "for lease" sign apparently up on the building and the website for the business removing the Columbus Avenue location, while the phone for the place no longer is in operation. The Newbury Street outlet in the Back Bay is still open and is one of two remaining (the other being in St. Augustine, FL), as the Salem location no longer exists and one that was being planned for Arlington never came to fruition.

Lobstah on a Roll first opened in the old Emma's space in the South End in the fall of 2017, featuring different sizes of lobster rolls, including one nearly two feet long.

The address for the now-closed South End location of Lobstah On a Roll was 537 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118. The website for the Back Bay location is at https://www.lobstahonaroll.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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Bertucci's in Holliston Has Closed

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

According to a source, Bertucci's in Holliston is no longer in business, with a check on the locations section of the website confirming this, as it has been removed from the site. This comes on the heels of a location in Swampscott shutting down toward the end of last year, with that one leaving only three remaining inside Route 128--in West Roxbury, Newton, and Medford. (Other outlets between Routes 128 and 495 can still be found in Braintree, Waltham, Reading, Norwood, Hingham, Framingham, Mansfield, Andover, and Plymouth.)

The address for the now-closed Holliston location of Bertucci's was 414 Washington Street, Holliston, MA, 01746. The website for all locations is at https://www.bertuccis.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 March 16, 2025

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

The Cornerstone in Somerville Appears to Have Closed Permanently
A restaurant that went through a management change last year--and which was ordered closed earlier this year--has apparently shut down for good.
Full Story

The Smoke Shop BBQ Plans to Soft-Open in Woburn March 17-20
A new location of a local group of barbecue restaurants that has been in the works for at least a year and a half is getting ready to open.
Full Story

The Book Pub Looks to Open in Jamaica Plain
It looks like a new bookstore/cafe/bar could be coming to a Boston neighborhood.
Full Story

Locale in Boston's North End Has Become Little Sage; Chef Tony Susi Apparently Involved
A North End restaurant that has been in business for more than 10 years has morphed into a new dining spot with a familiar name--and with a well-known local chef involved with the place.
Full Story

Don't Tell Aunty Opens in the Fenway
An Indian gastropub has debuted 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, March 14, 2025

The Cornerstone in Somerville Has Closed Permanently

A Somerville restaurant that went through a management change last year--and which was ordered closed earlier this year--has shut down for good.

According to a Bluesky thread from @geoffjentry.bsky.social, The Cornerstone on Beacon Street appears to be gone, as its signs have been taken down, while phone calls indicate that the mailbox is full, and a Google search shows a "permanently closed" label. The restaurant replaced R.F. O'Sullivan & Son in 2023, then going under new management over the past summer before it went dark in January with a "Closed by the Board of Health" sign displayed in the doorway.

The address for The Cornerstone was 282 Beacon Street, Somerville, MA, 02143.

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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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Viva Burrito Is Opening in the Former El Pelon Taqueria Space in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

The people behind a Mexican restaurant in downtown Boston appear to be opening a new location in another part of the city, and it will replace a location of a beloved Mexican spot that closed last year.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Viva Burrito is planning to open in the city's Fenway neighborhood, moving into the former El Pelon Taqueria space on Peterborough Street. Viva Burrito currently has a location on Franklin Street in Financial District (and it had previously been located on Staniford Street in the West End), and a source (Geoff Wong) confirms that this will be a second location of the restaurant.

El Pelon continues to operate a restaurant on Commonwealth Avenue in Brighton.

The address for the new location of Viva Burrito in the Fenway is 92 Peterborough Street, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for the business can be found at https://www.vivaburritosboston.com/

[April 29 update: A poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants page mentions that Viva Burrito is now open in the Fenway.]

(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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Thursday, March 13, 2025

Haveli Indian Cuisine Is Opening in the Former Tango Restaurant Space in Arlington Center

It looks like another Indian restaurant is on its way to a northwest suburb of Boston.

According to multiple sources, including a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Haveli Indian Cuisine is planning to open in Arlington, with a sign in the window of the former Tango Restaurant space on Mass. Ave. in the center of town. Once it opens, Haveli will join two other dining spots that offer Indian food--Punjab and Zomsa--in the downtown area, along with Makalu a few blocks to the east and Namaste Spice a bit further down Mass. Ave.

The sign for Haveli says that it will open sometime in the spring.

The address for Haveli Indian Cuisine is 464 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02474.

[April 10 update: A check on the place indicates that Haveli Indian Cuisine is now open in Arlington.]

(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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Seoul Gourmet Is Opening in the Former SuSu Sushi Space in Stoughton

A Korean restaurant is coming to the southern suburbs of Boston, replacing an all-you-can-eat sushi spot that closed toward the end of last year.

According to a Bluesky post from @danie913.bsky.social, Seoul Gourmet is opening in Stoughton, with a reply from @jeremyk.bsky.social indicating that it is moving into the space on Washington Street where SuSu Sushi had been until shutting down late last fall. A DoorDash page for the place shows such menu items as kimchi scallion pancakes, shrimp shumai, crab stick tempura, soft tofu stew, Korean fried chicken, bulgogi, grilled pork belly, japchae, and bibimbap.

The Instagram page for Seoul Jangteo in Allston indicates that there is an ownership connection between it and Seoul Gourmet.

The address for the Seoul Gourmet is 408 Washington Street, Stoughton, MA, 02072. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/seoulgourmetboston/

[March 24 update: Based on its Instagram page, it appears that Seoul Gourmet is going through a soft opening, with its grand opening on the way soon.]

(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, March 12, 2025

The Smoke Shop BBQ Is Opening in Woburn

A new location of a local group of barbecue restaurants that has been in the works for at least a year and a half is just about ready to open.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, The Smoke Shop BBQ is planning to soft-open its new location in Woburn March 17-20, with the website for the business confirming these dates while also mentioning that the dates are subject to change. Once it does open, the new outlet will join others in Boston's Fort Point, East Boston, Somerville's Assembly Row, and Harvard Square in Cambridge, and Methuen.

Chef/restaurateur Andy Husbands is behind the group of Smoke Shop restaurants.

The address for the new location of The Smoke Shop BBQ in Woburn (which had once been home to a location of Applebee's) is 2 Elm Street, Woburn, MA, 01801. The website for all locations is at https://thesmokeshopbbq.com/

[March 21 update: According to its website, The Smoke Shop BBQ officially opens in Woburn today.]

[Earlier Article]
The Smoke Shop BBQ May Be Opening in the Former Applebee's Space in Woburn

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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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KoKo Coffee Is Opening in the Former Equal Exchange Space in Boston's North Station Area

A local pair of coffee shops will be joined by a third location that should be particularly popular with commuters.

According to a source, KoKo Coffee is going to be opening in Boston's North Station area, taking over the space on Causeway Street where the Equal Exchange co-op once had a cafe. Once it is up and running, the new location of KoKo Coffee will join others on State Street by the Boston waterfront and on L Street in South Boston, and based on those, it will likely be offering pastries and baked goods, sandwiches, bowls, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and more.

The address for the new location of KoKo Coffee by North Station is 226 Causeway Street, Boston, MA, 02114. The Instagram page for the business is at https://www.instagram.com/kokocoffeeusa/

[May 12 update: According to a press release, KoKo Coffee is now open by North Station, and this is its first sit-down location, having both indoor and outdoor seating and being open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.]

(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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Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Saucy Saigon Opens in Malden

A brand new Vietnamese spot has opened a few miles north of Boston.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Saucy Saigon is up and running in Malden, moving into a space on Highland Avenue a few blocks south of Route 60 that had been home to Monkey King Tea. The Instagram page for the place shows such options as rice paper rolls, vermicelli with pork, shrimp or tofu, vermicelli bites, coffee, and bubble tea, and it is currently open Thursday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM as it goes through a soft opening.

The address for Saucy Saigon is 249 Highland Avenue, Malden, MA, 02148. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/saucysaigon

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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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Double G's Pizzeria in Braintree Has Closed

A pizza place and sub shop in the southern suburbs of Boston that had been around for more than 60 years has shut down.

According to multiple sources along with an article from MassLive, Double G's Pizzeria in Braintree is no longer in business, with the article saying that the lease for the Grove Street eatery was not being renewed. Double G's, which first opened in 1960, was known in part for its pizza while also being a popular spot for steak bombs, wings, burgers, and pasta dishes as well.

The address for the now-closed Double G's Pizzeria was 303 Grove Street, Braintree, MA, 02184.

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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 Book Pub Looks to Open in Jamaica Plain

It looks like a new bookstore/cafe/bar could be coming to a Boston neighborhood.

According to a post within the Jamaica Plain Facebook group page, Shannon Spellman is planning to open The Book Pub in JP, saying that she is "in the process of opening a new indie bookstore. The Book Pub is an LGBTQ + Women owned Bookshop with a small café and craft beer bar. The focus of the store is to be inclusive and welcoming to the local community while offering a unique setting to have a pint and enjoy your next favorite read!" A Kickstarter page for the business gives a bit more information, stating that it would be "offering a curated selection of books, artisanal coffee, and rotating local craft beers - while showcasing a bit of literary flare. The store will host author events, themed evenings, children’s book readings, writing classes, etc."

If all goes as planned, The Book Pub could be opening in the late fall of this year.

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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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Locale in Boston's North End Has Become Little Sage; Chef Tony Susi Apparently Involved

A North End restaurant that has been in business for more than 10 years has morphed into a new dining spot with a familiar name--and with a well-known local chef involved with the place.

According to a source, Locale on Hanover Street is now called Little Sage, with an OpenTable page for the new place indicating that Tony Susi is the executive chef. Susi is a veteran chef and restaurateur within the local dining scene who ran Sage, an award-winning Italian dining spot on Prince Street that opened in 1999 and moved to a short-lived location in the South End approximately 10 years later.

The website for Little Sage is still under construction so it isn't yet known what might be on the menu; as soon as we find out more, we will post an update here. (The OpenTable page for Little Sage appears to have the old menu for Locale.)

The address for Little Sage is 352 Hanover Street, Boston, MA. Its website will be at https://littlesagebos.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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Monday, March 10, 2025

Don't Tell Aunty Opens in Boston's Fenway Neighborhood

Last summer, it was reported that an Indian gastropub was planning to open in the Fenway section of Boston, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to a message sent from the place, Don't Tell Aunty is now open on Boylston Street, moving into a space a short distance west of the Massachusetts Avenue intersection. An earlier article here mentioned that the place is considered to be the first Indian gastropub in the state, with the spot offering Indian tapas-style plates, fusion dishes, cocktails, and more along with live music. (Flying Lion Hospitality Group, which runs such restaurants as Madras Dosa Co. and Godavari, is behind it.)

The address for Don't Tell Aunty is 1122 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02215. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/donttellauntyboston/

[Earlier Article]
Don't Tell Aunty Plans to Open in Boston's Fenway Area

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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 Regal Eagle in Sharon Is Closing

A dining and drinking spot in the southern suburbs of Boston is shutting down after only a short time in business.

According to a Facebook post from the place, The Regal Eagle in Sharon is closing its doors, as the space (which is within the Sharon Heights Shopping Plaza on South Main Street) has been sold. The post mentions that the restaurant/bar will be saying farewell in early April while also saying that "For almost two months we've built a really great crowd of regulars and filled the space with smiling faces. We've appreciated the support, truly, and will miss hanging out with you all! With the NCAA tournament, some live music, and fun hangs still left we hope to spend a little more time together before we close our doors! Thank you!"

The Regal Eagle took over the space where Simcha--which was another restaurant from owner Avi Shemtov--had been.

The address for The Regal Eagle is 370 South Main Street, Sharon, MA, 02067. Its Facebook page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569510196913

[March 28 update: According to its social media, The Regal Eagle closes down after business hours today.]

(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 March 9, 2025

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

TsuruTonTan Udon Noodle Brasserie in Kenmore Square Has Closed
The Boston location of a small group of Japanese noodle spots has shut down.
Full Story

Willow & Ivy Slated to Open in Boston's Back Bay in Mid-March
The third of three hotel restaurants/bars is just about ready to debut.
Full Story

Shy Bird Opens in the Fenway Section of Boston
A pair of comfort food spots known in part for their chicken dishes has been joined by a third location.
Full Story

Danny Meyer to Open Ci Siamo and Daily Provisions in the Seaport District
A NYC-based restaurant group with a big name behind it is bringing a couple of dining spots to the Boston waterfront.
Full Story

Tall Order Opens in Somerville
A new restaurant and cocktail bar has opened in Somerville after being in the works for nearly a year, and it has moved into the space where an Irish pub had been.
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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Sunday, March 09, 2025

Twin Donuts in Allston Is Closing

It looks like an iconic breakfast and lunch spot in Allston is closing after being in business for 70 years.

According to multiple sources, including sources within the media and the restaurant industry, Twin Donuts is shutting down, with a post within the Allston Brighton Facebook group page showing a note that says the last day in business for the Cambridge Street spot is March 23 while referring customers to Cafe Mirror and the Brighton Cafe, which are both located in Brighton and have an ownership connection to the place. Twin Donuts dates back to the mid-1950s and has gone through several ownership changes over the years, with the current owners taking over the shop in 2001.

In addition to donuts, Twin Donuts also offers bagels, muffins, croissants, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, pancakes, French toast, omelets, salads, and more.

The address for Twin Donuts is 501 Cambridge Street, 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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Friday, March 07, 2025

Chick'n More in Saugus Has Become a Location of Istanbul Diner

It looks like a chicken spot on Route 1 has been replaced by a Turkish restaurant, and it appears that this is a concept change under the same ownership.

According to a message from @IrishEyesPhoto1, Chick'n More in Saugus is now a location of Istanbul Diner, joining another location in Revere. The website for Istanbul Diner confirms this, mentioning that "we are excited to expand our mission with our new location in Saugus, MA." Chick'n More first opened last May, taking over the space where a location of Boston Market had once been.

The Facebook page for Chick'n More indicates the ownership connection between the two dining spots, saying that "Since 2019, starting with Istanbul Diner Cafe, we're excited to continue growing. We hope you enjoy dining with us!"

The address for the now-closed Chick'n More (and new Istanbul Diner) is 168 Broadway (Route 1), Saugus, MA, 01906. The website for its Saugus location is at https://istanbuldiner-saugus.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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Ambience Restaurant & Bar Opens in Canton

A brand new restaurant featuring Caribbean fare has debuted in the southern suburbs of Boston.

According to a Bluesky post from @jeremyk.bsky.social, Ambience Restaurant & Bar is now open in Canton, moving into the space on Washington Street that had been home to Takara before it moved to another space nearby. Jeremy mentions that the new eatery focuses on Haitian fusion cuisine while the website for the place shows such items as chicken dumpling soup, fried meatball sandwiches, basil chicken pasta, spaghetti with herring and hot dogs, oxtail with risotto, blackened salmon, fish and chips, grilled lamb chops, grilled quail, rice and beans, and fried plantain.

The address for Ambience Restaurant & Bar is 592 Washington Street, Canton, MA, 02021. Its website can be found at https://ambienceresto.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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