Boston Restaurant Talk: July 2025

Thursday, July 31, 2025

Louis Corner Opens in Boston's South End in Early August

Late last summer, it was announced that a local restaurant group would be opening a new dining spot in the South End of Boston, and now we have learned that it is just about ready to debut.

According to a press release, Louis Corner is slated to open its doors on Wednesday, August 6, moving into the space on Tremont Street that had been home to The Butcher Shop. As mentioned in an earlier article, Mazi Food Group (Desnuda Cocina & Bar, Kava Neo-Taverna, Gigi, Ilona) is behind the new place, which will be "an elevated yet timeless American gastropub" with some Irish influences along with regional specialties ranging from the Northeast to the South. The press release indicates that Louis Corner will be open for lunch and dinner, and it will also have a weekend brunch as well.

The Butcher Shop, which closed in the summer of 2023, was one of a handful of restaurants and bars from Barbara Lynch, though all of her dining/drinking spots are now closed.

The address for Louis Corner (which is pronounced Lou-ee) is 552 Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02118. Its website will be at https://www.louiscorner.com/

[Earlier Article]
Mazi Food Group to Open New Restaurant in the Former Butcher Shop Space in Boston's 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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Gong Cha to Open in Wakefield

Last week, it was reported that a growing chain of bubble tea shops would be opening a new location north of Boston, and now we have learned that yet another outlet will be opening north of the city as well.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Gong Cha is planning to open in Wakefield, with the website for the business saying that it will be moving into a space on Main Street in the center of town. Once it opens, expect to see such options as bubble tea, slush, and other tea beverages, and it will join a number of other locations locally--and as mentioned in an earlier article, an outlet of the chain is coming to Andover as well.

The address for the upcoming location of Gong Cha in Wakefield is 410 Main Street, Wakefield, MA, 01880. The website for Gong Cha (which first started out in Taiwan in 2006) is at https://www.gongchausa.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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Grotto in Boston's Beacon Hill to Close

A longtime Italian restaurant in the heart of Boston is shutting down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page (via a boston.com article), Grotto in the city's Beacon Hill neighborhood is going to be closing its doors, with a message on the website for the Bowdoin Street dining spot saying the following:

With mixed emotions, I want to share that Grotto will be closing later this summer. This has been a very difficult decision, but the time has come for a new chapter. While an exact closing date has not yet been set, our lease will expire in September, and we will keep you all up to date on our last night of service. Until then, we will continue dinner service seven days a week, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. I hope you'll come visit us before we say goodbye. To all our incredible staff, past and present, and to everyone who has dined with us over the years: thank you. You've made Grotto the special place it has been, and I will carry those memories with me always. Scott

Grotto first opened in 2003, with the subterranean restaurant being a neighborhood spot featuring such dishes as bolognese, gnocchi, chicken parmigiana, spaghetti and meatballs, grilled beef tenderloin, and pan-roasted salmon.

The address for Grotto is 37 Bowdoin Street, Boston, MA, 02114.

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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, July 30, 2025

Seoule to Open in North Quincy

A brand new fusion restaurant is on its way to a space just south of Boston.

According to a source, (Sarah Wu), Seoule is planning to open in North Quincy, with photos sent indicating that it will be moving into a space on Billings Road a few storefronts east of Hancock Street. The signs out front show that the upcoming dining spot will feature Korean-French cuisine (though a menu has not been seen as of yet), and it isn't known when it might open, so stay tuned for any updates as they come in.

The address for the upcoming Seoule is 49 Billings Road, Quincy, MA, 02171.

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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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Currentea Opens at Hub Hall in Boston's North Station Area

A new spot that offers cheese-filled corn dogs, bubble tea, and more has come to a Boston food hall.

According to a press release, Currentea is now open at Hub Hall on Causeway Street by North Station and TD Garden, with its website showing a variety of tea and snack options including boba, mozzarella cheese dogs, jumbo fried squid, beef, pork, and lamb skewers, sausage wraps, fried egg rolls, deep-fried cheese wontons, soft serve, and more.

The website for Currentea can be found at https://www.currentea.com/ while its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/currentea.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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Ten One Tea House Opens in Somerville's Davis Square

A growing group of tea shops has expanded to a second space in Somerville.

According to posters within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Ten One Tea House is now open in Davis Square, having had its on July 26 and 27, with a poster within the Davis Square Facebook group page mentioning that it has moved into the former Kung Fu Tea space on Elm Street. Based on other locations of Ten One in Assembly Row along with Boston's Back Bay and Fenway, Arsenal Yards in Watertown, Cambridge's Harvard Square, and Burlington, expect to see such items as milk tea, bubble tea, and slushes at the new outlet.

The address for Ten One Tea House in Davis Square is 237 Elm Street, Somerville, MA, 02144. The website for all locations is at https://www.tenoneteahouse.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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Tuesday, July 29, 2025

Chaji Creamery in Quincy's Wollaston Neighborhood Is Closing

An ice cream shop with Asian influences that is located just south of Boston is shutting down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Chaji Creamery in Quincy is planning to close its doors, with a Facebook post from the Newport Avenue business saying the following:

Dear Friends and Loyal Customers, After much thought and with a heavy heart, we've decided to permanently close the doors of Chaji Creamery. This chapter has been filled with sweet memories, laughter, and community—moments we will forever cherish. As a small business, your support meant everything. Whether you stopped in for a scoop, shared kind words, or recommended us to a friend, we are endlessly grateful. You helped make our dream a reality, and for that, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Though the shop is closing, the memories we've made with you will always remain. Thank you for being part of our journey. From now until September 1st, we'll only have Milk Tea and Ube flavors available. If you'd like to stock up, stop by for pints while supplies they last! With heartfelt gratitude, Chaji Family

In addition to its milk tea and ube soft serve and sundae options, Chaji Creamery has also offered such items as milkshakes, fruit tea, matcha, iced coffee, and black and jasmine tea.

The address for Chaji Creamery is 293 Newport Avenue, Quincy, MA, 02170. Its website can be found at https://www.chajicreamery.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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Lou's Opens in Cambridge's Harvard Square

Last fall, it was reported that a new dining and drinking spot featuring live music would move into a subterranean space in Cambridge that had once been home to another restaurant and bar, and now we have learned that it is open.

According to an article from Eater Boston, Lou's opened over the weekend in Harvard Square, taking over the former Beat Brew Hall space on Brattle Street. The article and the website for the place indicate that the new spot offers a raw bar, small plates, larger meals, and beer, wine, and cocktails while also featuring both DJs and live music, and the team behind the place includes co-owners Tom Keane and Harry DiLeo of American Flatbread and John DiGiovanni, general manager Allison Finney (Roadrunner), and executive chef Jason Bond (Bondir).

The address for Lou's is 13A Brattle Street, 13A Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138. Its website can be found at https://www.wearelous.com/

[Earlier Article]
Lou's Plans Plans to Open in the Former Beat Brew Hall Space in Cambridge's Harvard Square

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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, July 28, 2025

Cafe Iterum in East Boston Closes July 29; Future of Business Unknown

An East Boston cafe is getting ready to shut down, and it isn't known whether it could return at some point.

According to a Facebook reel from owner Matt McPherson, Cafe Iterum at Clippership Wharf is closing its doors after business hours on Tuesday, July 29, saying that it is shuttering after facing "significant headwinds" including such things as rising costs and construction issues during its three-year existence. McPherson hints that the place could maybe be reborn at some point, saying that it is shuttering "for now" while stating that they are hoping for a "new beginning."

Cafe Iterum first opened in early 2022, being known in part for its sustainable practices and focus on the local community.

The address for Cafe Iterum is 11 Father Jacobbe Road, East Boston, MA, 02128. Its website is at https://cafeiterum.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 July 27, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between July 21, 2025, and July 27, 2025.

Great Harvest Bread Co. in East Lexington Is Closing; Catering Business to Remain in Operation
A retail bakery shop in the northwest suburbs of Boston is shutting down, though the business isn't going away entirely.
Full Story

Monarca Taqueria Plans to Open in Waltham
The people behind a Mexican restaurant southwest of Boston will be opening a new location, with this one being much closer to the city.
Full Story

Sons of Sicily in Saugus Is Closing, Could Be Reborn in New Location
A North Shore eatery known in part for its Sicilian pizza is shutting down, though it may open back up in another space at some point.
Full Story

Lisboa Cafe to Open in Dorchester's Savin Hill Area
It looks like a Portuguese restaurant is on its way to a Boston neighborhood.
Full Story

Minuteman Diner in Bedford Is Closing
A suburban diner is getting ready to 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, July 25, 2025

Pancho's Cantina in Wilmington Has Closed

A Mexican restaurant in the northern suburbs of Boston has shut down.

According to a source, Pancho's Cantina in Wilmington is no longer in business, with a Facebook post confirming this, saying the following:

After 8 unforgettable years, it is with heavy hearts that we share the news....This journey has been filled with love, flavor, and incredible memories. We've had the privilege of serving this amazing community, and we are so grateful for your support, your stories, and your loyalty. To our staff and to every customer who walked through our doors: thank you!!. You helped make Pancho's more than just a restaurant — you made it feel like home....With love and gratitude, The Pancho’s Cantina Family

Pancho's Cantina was located on a section of Ballardvale Street near the Route 125/Route 93 intersection that mostly consists of office parks and industrial buildings, with little in the way of full-service dining options.

The address for the now-closed Pancho's Cantina was 206 Ballardvale Street, Wilmington, MA, 01887.

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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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Great Harvest Bread Co. in East Lexington Is Closing; Catering Business to Remain in Operation

A retail bakery shop in the northwest suburbs of Boston is shutting down, though the business isn't going away entirely.

According to a Facebook post from the place, Great Harvest Bread Co. in East Lexington is going to be closing its doors, with the note saying the following:

With a full heart and deep gratitude, I want to share an important update: 21 years ago, I left corporate America to start my own business and now it is time to move on to my next venture....It has been my honor to provide you with sandwiches, breads, sweets and drinks each and every day. I cannot thank all of you who followed me from Lexington Center 9 1/2 years ago to the beautiful bakery that my two brothers built for me in East Lexington. And for all of you who found us when we moved and continue to support my business - THANK YOU!

The post mentions that the shop's last day will be August 2, though its catering business will remain in operation via a commercial kitchen in Lexington.

The address for Great Harvest Bread Co. is 233 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA, 02420. Its website is at http://greatharvestcatering.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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Monarca Taqueria Plans to Open in Waltham

The people behind a Mexican restaurant southwest of Boston will be opening a new location, with this one being much closer to the city.

According to a Facebook post from The Waltham Channel, Monarca Taqueria is planning to open in Waltham's downtown area, taking over the space on Main Street that had been home to Gustazo before it moved to Moody Street. Ramiro and Raquel Marin, who own a location of Monarca Taqueria in Milford, indicate that "This is more like fast food, not a full restaurant" though it does plan to have a full liquor license.

Based on the Milford location, the upcoming Monarca Taqueria could be offering such items as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, bowls, and churros.

The address for the upcoming location of Monarca Taqueria in Waltham is 663 Main Street, Waltham, MA, 02451. The website for the Milford location is at https://themonarcataqueria.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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Sons of Sicily in Saugus Is Closing, Could Be Reborn in New Location

A North Shore eatery known in part for its Sicilian pizza is closing, though it may open back up in another space at some point.

According to a Facebook post from the business, Sons of Sicily in Saugus is shutting down, with the Lincoln Avenue spot saying the following:

We know there's been a lot of chatter and questions lately, so we wanted to share this with you directly. After much thought and careful consideration, we've made the difficult decision to sell and move on from Sons of Sicily. The rising costs and high rent have made it impossible for us to continue operating the way we believe in—with quality, love, and care for our craft and community. That said, this isn't goodbye forever. We're already on the hunt for a new location and a fresh start, and we'll be sure to keep you posted on our next chapter.

In addition to Sicilian pizza, Sons of Sicily's has also been known for its variety of hot and cold subs along with arancini, salads, pasta dishes, rice bowls, and more.

The address for Sons of Sicily is 508 Lincoln Avenue, Saugus, MA, 01906. Its website is at https://sonsofsicilyeatery.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, July 24, 2025

Lisboa Cafe to Open in Dorchester's Savin Hill Area

It looks like a Portuguese restaurant is on its way to a Boston neighborhood.

According to a licensing committee hearing page within the city's website, Lisboa Cafe is planning to open in Dorchester, moving into a space on Dorchester Avenue in the Savin Hill area. The notice mentions that the upcoming spot is slated to have a dining area with 49 seats along with a full bar, and it will also have a pastry and coffee counter as well, and an earlier Dorchester Reporter article says that Raquel Semedo--who was born in Portugal--is behind the place (Keven Landim is listed as the manager in the hearing notice). The article says that the restaurant plans to be open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner offering Portuguese and Cape Verdean options such as Portuguese breads, coffee, and wines as well as meals such as Carne de Porco a Alentjana (pork shoulder and clams) and Cozida a Portuguesa (a Portuguese stew).

If all goes as planned, Lisboa Cafe could be opening sometime in August or September.

The address for the upcoming Lisboa Cafe is 1078 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02125.

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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 Mix Vault May Open in Roxbury

The people behind a Dorchester dining spot may be opening a restaurant and speakeasy with a similar name in Roxbury.

According to a licensing committee hearing page within the City of Boston website, The Mix Vault is looking to open on Shawmut Avenue, with the address indicating that it would move into a space about a block away from Malnea Cass Boulevard. The notice mentions that the proposed place would have a takeout area and a kitchen along with a "hidden" door that leads to a bar with seating for 25 and a speakeasy, and the manager listed is Rufus Faulk who is one of the owners of The Mix on Talbot Avenue in the Ashmont/Peabody Square area. Based on that restaurant, The Mix Vault could be offering a mix of Southern fare and New England seafood dishes, but more should be known once the meeting takes place next week.

The address for The Mix Vault would be 720 Shawmut Avenue, Roxbury, MA 02119. The website for The Mix in Dorchester is at https://www.mixboston.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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Mondo Plans to Open in Boston's South End

A new restaurant and bar may be on its way to the South End of Boston.

According to a licensing committee hearing page, a dining/drinking spot tentatively called Mondo is looking to open on Columbus Avenue, moving into a space just east of the Massachusetts Avenue intersection. The notice mentions that the proposed place would have a dining area and bar seating along with a seasonal outdoor patio, and the manager listed is Spenser Payne, who runs Neighborhood Wines on Tremont Street in the South End. The hearing is slated to take place next week, so more should be known about the plans at that point.

The address for the proposed Mondo is 563 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118.

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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, July 23, 2025

Earls Kitchen + Bar to Open in Boston's Seaport District

A growing chain of restaurants with roots in Canada is planning to open a third Boston-area location.

According to a press release, Earls Kitchen + Bar is going to be opening in the city's Seaport District, moving into a space between Seaport Boulevard and Congress Street at the Commonwealth Pier/World Trade Center complex which is in the process of being redeveloped. Once it opens, the new location of Earls will join others at the Prudential Center in the Back Bay and in Somerville's Assembly Row, and this one will include a bar, a three-season enclosed patio, and a seasonal outdoor dining space. If all goes as planned, Earls will open in the Seaport District in the early part of 2027.

Earls got its start in 1982 with a restaurant in Edmonton, opening a second location two years later in Vancouver, which is where the company is headquartered today.

The address for the upcoming location of Earls Kitchen + Bar in the Seaport District is 157 Seaport Boulevard Boston, MA, 02210. The website for the company is at https://earls.ca/

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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, July 22, 2025

Uptown Gelato & Boba to Open in Winchester

It looks like a gelato and bubble tea spot north of Boston will be expanding to a second space north of the city, though this one will be much closer to Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Uptown Gelato & Boba is planning to open in Winchester, moving into the space on Main Street in the center of town that had previously been home to Cup 89, and before that, Scoopalooza Creamery. Once it opens, the new shop will join another on Main Street in Andover, which had also replaced a location of Cup 89.

The address for the upcoming Uptown Gelato & Boba in Winchester is 527 Main Street, Winchester, MA, 01890. The web page for the business is at https://order.online/store/uptown-gelato-&-boba-andover-28987754/

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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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Fuful Bakery Is Apparently Opening a Brick-and-Mortar Shop in Downtown Boston

It looks like the people behind a popup bakery business will be opening a permanent space in the heart of Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Fuful Bakery is planning to open on Franklin Street in the downtown area, and it appears to be moving into a space next to Viva Burrito which has the same address as the upcoming shop. Based on its offerings at popups at Sowa Market in the South End, the new store could be focusing on Asian/French-influenced pastries, breads, and other sweet treats and baked goods.

The address for the upcoming location of Fuful Bakery in downtown Boston is 274 Franklin Street, Boston, MA, 02110. The website for the business is at https://www.fufulbakery.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, July 21, 2025

Gong Cha to Open in Andover

A growing chain of bubble tea shops continues to expand locally, with a new one soon opening north of Boston.

According to a source, Gong Cha is planning to open in Andover, with the website for the business saying that it will be moving into a space downtown in Elm Square. Once it opens, expect to see such options as bubble tea, slush, and other tea beverages, and it will join a number of other locations in the Greater Boston area, including a few others north of the city in Lowell, Burlington, Peabody, and Malden.

The address for the upcoming location of Gong Cha in Andover is 2 Elm Square (Suite 103), Andover, MA, 01810. The website for Gong Cha (which first started out in Taiwan in 2006) can be found at https://www.gongchausa.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]

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.)

Minuteman Diner in Bedford Is Closing

A suburban diner is getting ready to shut down.

According to a source, Minuteman Diner in Bedford is closing its doors, with a post from @bedfordma saying on Thursday that "Minuteman Diner at 363 Great Road is set to close on July 30th. The owner is retiring. Stay tuned for more details." A check on the Instagram page for the diner confirms this while saying the following (via owner Diane Cohen):

Thank you to our amazing staff both past and present, and the loyal customers of Minuteman Diner. The last 5 1/2 years have been fulfilling, and there is deep gratitude for everyone. This could not have been done without dedication and hard work. Thank you for the unwavering support, for becoming part of the family, and for all the love, laughter, and memories shared here. Everyone will always hold a special place in my heart.

Minuteman Diner first opened in January of 2020, being known in part for its all-day breakfast options,

The address for Minuteman Diner is 363 Great Road, Bedford, MA, 01730.

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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]

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 July 20, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between July 14, 2025, and July 20, 2025.

Democracy Brewing Eastie Opens in East Boston
A brewery and pub in downtown Boston has expanded to a second location.
Full Story

Chez Siam in Marlborough Has Closed
A longtime Thai restaurant in the MetroWest area has shut down.
Full Story

Southern Kin Cookhouse at Assembly Row in Somerville Is Closing; New Location Apparently on the Way
A Southern-style restaurant in Somerville will soon be saying farewell to its home, though it looks like it may be reborn in a new location at some point.
Full Story

89 Charles to Open in Boston's Beacon Hill
A new dining and drinking spot is on its way to Beacon Hill, and it will be taking over the space where a location of an Italian restaurant had been.
Full Story

Tuscan Kitchen in Burlington Is Closing; New Concept on the Way to the Space
A group of upscale Italian restaurants and markets will be closing one of its Boston-area locations, though a new concept appears to be taking over the space.
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, July 18, 2025

Democracy Brewing Eastie Opens in East Boston

Late last year, it was reported that a brewery and pub in downtown Boston was planning to expand to a second location, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to an article from Caught in Eastie, Democracy Brewing Eastie is now open in East Boston, moving into a space on Maverick Street in Maverick Square. The post mentions that the new location--which joins the original Democracy Brewing on Temple Place in Downtown Crossing--has seating for 56 along with additional seating on an outdoor patio, with the website for the business indicating that a food menu will be posted soon.

Democracy Brewing, which first opened in Downtown Crossing in 2018, also has a beer garden at City Hall in Boston.

The address for Democracy Brewing Eastie is 154 Maverick Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. The website for the business is at https://www.democracybrewing.com/

[Earlier Article]
Democracy Brewing Plans to Expand to Maverick Square in East Boston

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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, July 17, 2025

Pixlcat Coffee to Open in Charlestown

The people behind a pair of cafes on the West Coast will be opening a new location just outside of downtown Boston.

According to an article from What Now Boston, Pixlcat Coffee is planning to open in Charlestown, moving into a space on Cambridge Street by Sullivan Square. Once it debuts, the new cafe will join two others in San Francisco, with brothers Dennis Lee running the place (he and his brothers David and Daniel founded Pixlcat Coffee), while offerings will include mochi muffins, matcha, espresso, and latte.

If all goes as planned, the new location of Pixlcat Coffee will open sometime around mid to late August.

The address for the upcoming Pixlcat Coffee is 32 Cambridge Street, Charlestown, MA, 02129. The website for the business is at https://www.pixlcatcoffee.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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Chez Siam in Marlborough Has Closed

A longtime Thai restaurant in the MetroWest area has shut down.

According to a source, Chez Siam in Marlborough is no longer in business, with a Community Advocate article indicating that the East Main Street dining spot closed its doors on June 29. Chez Siam first opened in 1986, apparently being only the third Thai restaurant to open in all of Massachusetts and offering both authentic and modern Thai fare.

The address for the now-closed Chez Siam was 280 East Main Street, Marlborough, MA, 01752.

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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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KJ's Caffe in Acton Has Closed

A pair of cafes northwest of Boston is back down to just one, as its newer location has shut down.

According to a source, KJ's Caffe in Acton is no longer in business, with a sign out front at the Great Road spot saying that "Due to high costs that everyone is unfortunately taking on, we will be closing our doors in Acton on Sunday, July 13." The sign does say that the location at 118 Chelmsford Street in Chelmsford will remain in operation.

KJ's Caffe first opened within the Brookside Shops in Acton in the early part of 2023.

The address for the now-closed location of KJ's Caffe in Acton was 145 Great Road, Acton, MA, 01720. The website for the business is at https://www.kjscaffe.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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Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Southern Kin Cookhouse at Assembly Row in Somerville Is Closing; New Location Apparently on the Way

A Southern-style restaurant in Somerville will soon be saying farewell to its home, though it looks like it will be reborn in a new location at some point.

According to a source, Southern Kin Cookhouse at Assembly Row is getting ready to close its doors, with its social media pages mentioning a "friendly/bittersweet reminder that our Assembly Row location will close 7/27. Make the most of it & visit us there until we relocate" while another post says "Come visit us at our Assembly Row location one last time! New spot coming soon!" It is not yet known where the new location will be, so keep checking back for updates as they come in.

Southern Kin Cookhouse first opened in 2016, offering such options as buttermilk biscuits, grilled cornbread, chicken and waffles, gumbo, fried catfish, shrimp and grits, country fried steak, ribs, macaroni and cheese, dirty rice, and pecan pie along with beer, wine, and cocktails.

The address for Southern Kin Cookhouse is 500 Assembly Row, Somerville, MA, 02145. Its website can be found at https://southernkincookhouse.com/

[August 1 update: Its social media has confirmed that Southern Kin Cookhouse is now closed, though it also mentions its "grand relocation" which further indicates that it does plan to return, presumably in a new 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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Third Time Ice Cream to Open a Brick-and Mortar Shop at the Charles River Speedway in Brighton

A few months ago, it was announced that a local ice cream business known for its pop-ups could be opening a permanent space in Somerville, and now we have learned that it will be coming to Brighton instead.

According to a Bluesky post from @troysch1.bsky.social, Third Time Ice Cream is now planning to open at the Charles River Speedway on Western Avenue, apparently moving into the former Super Bien space. Back in April, the business put up an Instagram post saying that they were "headed for a permanent home in East Somerville," but that subsequently fell through.

Third Time Ice Cream Founder Nick Ladin-Sienne, who comes from such restaurants as Oleana, Sofra, and Puritan + Co., brought a temporary location of Third Time Ice Cream to Somerville's Bow Market last fall.

The website for Third Time Ice Cream is at https://www.thirdtimeicecream.co/

[Earlier Article]
Third Time Ice Cream Is Looking to Open a Brick-and Mortar Shop in East Somerville

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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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89 Charles to Open in Boston's Beacon Hill

A new dining and drinking spot is on its way to Beacon Hill, and it will be taking over the space where a location of an Italian restaurant had been.

According to a post within the jobs section of the bostonchefs.com website, 89 Charles is planning to open its doors soon, saying in the listing that it will be "a small, intimate cocktail bar" that includes seating for 30 in the lounge area and another 12 at the bar while featuring "elevated small plates" along with cocktails. The address (89 Charles Street) indicates that it will be moving into the former Artu space (another location of Artu remains open in the North End), and this space had actually been the site of two proposed restaurants over the past couple of years--Nite Lite Cafe and Ono Bistro.

If all goes as planned, 89 Charles could be opening in August or September.

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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, July 15, 2025

Tropical Smoothie Cafe to Open in Stoneham

A Georgia-based chain of restaurants featuring salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and more will soon be opening yet another location in the Greater Boston area, and this one will reside in the northern suburbs of the city.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Tropical Smoothie Cafe is planning to open in Stoneham, moving into a space on Main Street in the Redstone Shopping Center. Once it opens, the new outlet will join a number of others in the region, including in Amesbury, Beverly, Boston, Chelmsford, Dedham, Foxborough, Methuen, Peabody, Plymouth, Saugus, Swampscott, and Westford.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe was first established in Florida in 1997 and is currently headquartered in Atlanta.

The address for the upcoming location of Tropical Smoothie Cafe in Stoneham is 89 Main Street (Route 28), Stoneham, MA, 02180. The website for the chain is at https://www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.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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Thrive Juice Cafe in Arlington Has Been Rebranded As Thrive Gourmet

A suburban spot that started out as a juice bar has morphed into more of a restaurant.

According to a post within The Arlington List Facebook group page, Thrive Juice Cafe in Arlington is now Thrive Gourmet, with a note from owner Derek Fleming saying the following:

After months of hard work...we launch Thrive Gourmet! Arlington's first breakfast sandwich specialty shop! Come down and give us a try today and help spread the word that there is a new breakfast sandwich king in town!....8 am to 2pm for the best breakfast sandwich you've ever had.

Fleming first opened Thrive Juice Cafe in 2019, initially focusing on such items as cold pressed juices and smoothies, eventually adding vegan food options including salads, bowls, toasts, and sandwiches.

The address for Thrive Gourmet is 169 Mass Ave., Arlington, MA, 02474. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/thrivegourmetarlington/

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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, July 14, 2025

Praliné French Patisserie May Be Opening a New Location in Boston's Back Bay

A pair of French pastry shops could be joined by a third, and this would be its first in Boston proper.

According to an article in The Boston Sun, Praliné French Patisserie is looking to open in the city's Back Bay neighborhood, moving into a space on Newbury Street that had been home to a location of Clover. If the new location gets approval to open, it would join others in Belmont and Cambridge and it would offer such items as pastries (including croissants, eclairs, and macarons), salads, sandwiches, and coffee, and it hopes to have both indoor and outdoor seating.

The address for the proposed location of Praliné French Patisserie is 227 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02116. The website for the business is at https://www.pralinepatisseries.com/

Thanks to Adam Gaffin of Universal Hub for initially bringing this to our attention.

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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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Tuscan Kitchen in Burlington Is Closing; New Concept on the Way to the Space

A group of upscale Italian restaurants and markets will be closing one of its Boston-area locations, though a new concept appears to be taking over the space.

According to a source, Tuscan Kitchen in Burlington is getting ready to shut down, with a Facebook post from Tuscan Brands saying the following:

After nearly 11 unforgettable years, Tuscan Kitchen Burlington will be closing its doors on Sunday, August 3rd. Since opening on October 15, 2014, this location has been more than just a restaurant—it was the heartbeat that helped build Tuscan Brands into what it is today. We’re endlessly grateful to the Burlington community, our loyal guests, and the dedicated team who made this place feel like home. While we say goodbye to this chapter, we're thrilled to share that we'll be returning to the same space with an entirely new concept—crafted for the residents of Burlington and the travelers passing through.

The Burlington location of Tuscan Kitchen was the second location to open, joining the original location in Salem, NH which first opened its doors in 2010; another location debuted in Boston's Seaport District in 2017.

The address for Tuscan Kitchen in Burlington is 2400 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803. The website for all three locations is at https://www.tuscanbrands.com/tuscan-kitchen/

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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 July 13, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between July 7, 2025, and July 13, 2025.

The Dot Block Diner and More to Open in Dorchester
A new diner is on its way to a Boston neighborhood, and the person behind it may be familiar to some.
Full Story

Brother's Deli & Restaurant in Wakefield Has Closed
A decades-old cafeteria-style restaurant in the northern suburbs of Boston that was known in part for its Greek fare has shut down.
Full Story

Darling Is Opening in Central Square This Month
A new cocktail bar is just about ready to debut in Cambridge.
Full Story

J.P. Licks in Boston's Mission Hill Neighborhood Has Closed
A local group of ice cream cafes has closed one of its locations.
Full Story

Rapscallion Brick Oven Pizza and Brewery Opens in the Former Spicket River Brewery Space in Lawrence
A brewery based in Central Massachusetts that has a restaurant northwest of Boston now has a new location north of the city, and this one is in an historic space that had previously been home to another brewery.
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, July 11, 2025

The Dot Block Diner and More Is Opening in Dorchester

A new diner is on its way to a Boston neighborhood, and the person behind it may be familiar to some.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the city's website, The Dot Block Diner and More is planning to open in Dorchester, moving into a space on Dorchester Avenue on the southern edge of Savin Hill. The listing mentions that Bernard Goodman is the manager, and this is the same Bernard Goodman who opened McKenna's Cafe on Savin Hill Avenue with his wife back in 1999, selling the business to new owners several years later (McKenna's remains in operation today). It looks like The Dot Block Diner will be open for breakfast and lunch, though specific details have not been given as of yet.

The address for The Dot Block Diner and More is 1203 Dorchester Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02125.

[July 22 update: According to an article from Caught in Dot, The Dot Block Diner is now open, having soft-opened a few days ago.]

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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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Namastay Boston to Open in Kenmore Square

A brand new Indian restaurant is on its way to the Boston's Fenway area.

According to a source, Namastay Boston is planning to open in Kenmore Square, moving into a space next to Cornwall's on Beacon Street. The website for the upcoming eatery mentions that it will feature "bold, elegant Indian cuisine" including everything from "rich curries to vibrant street snacks" from various regions of India. No opening date has been given as of yet, with a sign out front simply saying "coming soon."

The address for Namastay Boston is 636 Beacon Street, Boston, MA, 02215. Its website can be found at https://namastayboston.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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Brother's Deli & Restaurant in Wakefield Has Closed

A decades-old cafeteria-style restaurant in the northern suburbs of Boston that was known in part for its Greek fare has shut down.

According to a Facebook post from the business, Brother's Deli & Restaurant in Wakefield is no longer in business, with the post saying the following:

After nearly two years of pouring our hearts into Brothers Deli, we've made the very difficult decision to close our doors. This wasn't what we had hoped for and continuing on was no longer sustainable.⁣...We may be stepping away from the business, but we'll always carry this community with us. If the lights come back on under new ownership, just know: what we built together can't be replaced or forgotten.⁣⁣ Just because we are closing up shop doesn’t mean its goodbye forever....With all our love and gratitude, Sunny, Sonia, Happy, & the Brothers Deli team⁣⁣

Brother's Deli & Restaurant's roots date back approximately 40 years, with an ownership change taking place in 2023.

The address for the now-closed Brother's Deli & Restaurant in Wakefield was 404 Main Street, Wakefield, MA, 01880.

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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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District 7 Cafe Opens in Roxbury

A new cafe has come to a Boston neighborhood, and it is under the same ownership as an adjacent bar.

According to an article from boston.com, District 7 Cafe is now open in Roxbury, moving into a space on Warren Street that is next door to District 7 Tavern. Both spots are run by Royal Smith (Urban Food & Beverage, Boston Black Hospitality Coalition), with the cafe offering breakfast pastries along with coffee and tea, and eventually, alcohol which plans to be served at brunch.

The address for District 7 Cafe is 376 Warren Street, Roxbury, MA, 02119. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/district7cafe/

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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, July 10, 2025

Mila's Is Opening at Gibson Point in Revere

Last fall, it was reported that a new dining spot was on its way to a waterside location just north of Boston, and now we have learned that it is in the process of getting up and running.

According to a press release, Mila's in Revere had a ribbon cutting and soft opening on Tuesday, July 8, with the restaurant moving into the Gibson Point apartment community in the Point of Pines area near the northern tip of Revere Beach and just south of the Lynn border. (We have been told that the official opening is Monday, July 14.) As mentioned in an earlier article, the new place is a cafe at breakfast and lunch and an upscale restaurant, bar, and lounge at night, with outdoor seating including water views.

Michael Aldi (Dryft, Fine Line, and Vivi's Tapas Bar, Aldi Companies) and real estate and investment firm Redgate are behind Mila's.

The website for Mila's will be at https://www.milasrevere.com/

[Earlier Article]
Mila's Plans to Open in Revere

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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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Darling Is Opening in Cambridge's Central Square This Month

Last spring, it was reported that a new cocktail bar was looking to open in Cambridge, and now we have learned that it is just about ready to debut.

According to an article from boston.com, Darling is on the verge of opening in Central Square, with a planned opening date of the middle of this month as of this writing. The Mass. Ave. spot is taking over the space where Mary Chung had been until closing at the end of 2022, and it plans to offer "Chinese inspired" cocktails along with dim sum fare--and as mentioned in an earlier article, Brian Callahan (Row 34, Orfano, Tiger Mama, Coquette, Grafton Street) is one of the people behind it, along with Zimu Chen (Coquette, Eastern Standard, Sumiao Hunan Kitchen, Mariel).

The address for Darling in Central Square is 464 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its website will be at https://www.darlingcambridge.com/

[July 17 update: According to a press release, Darling opens on July 18.]

[Earlier Article]
Darling Plans to Open in the Former Mary Chung Space in Cambridge's Central Square

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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, July 09, 2025

J.P. Licks in Boston's Mission Hill Neighborhood Has Closed

A local group of ice cream cafes has closed one of its locations.

According to a Bluesky post from @heyheydra.bsky.social, J.P. Licks in the Mission Hill section of Boston is no longer in operation, with an Instagram post from the business saying the following:

After more than 20 incredible years of bringing smiles on faces one lick at a time, J.P. Licks has officially closed our OBC location. We have the utmost gratitude to our loyal customers and the beautiful memories made in that store over the many years. Mission Hill will hold the most special of places in our hearts & we will miss the beautiful, lively neighborhood. Fear not we have 16 locations across the Greater Boston area, so we warmly invite our patrons to visit them as we depart from Mission Hill. The utmost gratitude for the decades of scoops, smiles, & community. Thank you

J.P. Licks first started out in Jamaica Plain in 1981.

The address for the now-closed Mission Hill location of J.P. Licks is 1618 Tremont Street (One Brigham Circle), Boston, MA, 02120. The website for the business is at https://jplicks.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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Diamond Tart Opens in Allston

A dessert shop that features a special kind of pastry has come to a Boston neighborhood.

A message sent by Leah Klein of City Living Boston mentions that Diamond Tart is now open in Allston, moving into the space on Harvard Avenue where a location of the Taiwanese chain Tiger Sugar had been. The new eatery offers croissant tarts (which are basically a combination of a flaky croissant and an egg tart) with flavors including chocolate, blueberry, matcha, pistachio, strawberry, cinnamon apple, and hazelnut popcorn along with canele options, and the place also serves a variety of teas.

The address for Diamond Tart is 181 Harvard Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134. Its website can be found at https://www.diamondtart.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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Tuesday, July 08, 2025

The Halal Guys to Open in Newton

A growing chain of halal spots with roots in New York City will be opening yet another location in the local area, and this one will be in the western suburbs of Boston.

According to a Facebook post from the business, The Halal Guys is planning to open in Newton, moving into a space on Needham Street just south of where it meets Dedham Street and Winchester Street (a short distance south of Route 9). Once it opens, the new location will join others in Boston's Theater District, the Fenway, South Bay, Porter Square in Cambridge, and further out, in Shrewsbury--and other locations are being planned for downtown Boston and Dedham as well.

The Halal Guys started out in 1990 as a food cart in Manhattan and today offers such options as chicken and rice, gyros, falafel, hummus, baklava, and more.

The address for the upcoming location of The Halal Guys in Newton is 55 Needham Street, Newton, MA, 02461. The website for the chain is at https://thehalalguys.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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Rapscallion Brick Oven Pizza and Brewery Opens in the Former Spicket River Brewery Space in Lawrence

A brewery based in Central Massachusetts that has a restaurant northwest of Boston now has a new location north of the city, and this one is in an historic space that had previously been home to another brewery.

According to a source, Rapscallion Brick Oven Pizza and Brewery is now open in Lawrence, taking over the former Spicket River Brewery space on Island Street in an old mill complex between the Merrimack River and the North Canal within the North Canal Historic District. The new location joins another in Acton while its brewery can be found in Spencer and a pub is also located in Sturbridge, and the website for the business says that the new space includes a barroom, performance space, and an outdoor seating area during the warmer months, with its menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Spicket River Brewery announced its closure early this year, saying at the time that it was hoping to relocate at some point.

The address for the new Rapscallion Brick Oven Pizza and Brewery in Lawrence is 56 Island Street, Lawrence, MA, 01840. The website for Rapscallion is at https://visitrapscallion.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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