Sunday, August 31, 2025

Blue Ribbon Brasserie in Boston's Kenmore Square Has Closed

Another dining spot from a NYC-based restaurant group has shut down.

According to a source, Blue Ribbon Brasserie in the Kenmore Square section of Boston is no longer in operation, with a sign out front saying "Blue Ribbon Brasserie is closed. We would like to thank all of our guests and staff that helped create memorable experiences here." This is the second place from Blue Ribbon Restaurants to close in Kenmore, as Pescador shut down last year and its space is now home to a location of Row 34; another spot from the restaurant group called Blue Ribbon Sushi remains open in Kenmore.

Blue Ribbon Brasserie first opened inside the Hotel Commonwealth in the latter part of 2023, taking over the space that had previously been home to Eastern Standard (that restaurant now resides in a nearby space at the Fenway Center development which sits above the Mass. Pike just outside of Kenmore Square).

Another location of Blue Ribbon Brasserie remains open in Manhattan near where West Village and SoHo meet.

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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, August 29, 2025

Komugi Japanese Bakery & Cafe to Open Near Union Square in Somerville

It looks like a new bakery is on its way to Somerville.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Komugi Japanese Bakery & Cafe is making plans to open, moving into a space on Prospect Street a short distance south of Union Square. The website and Instagram page for the place indicates that it will be a Japanese bakery that uses Hokkaido flour (from Japan) and it will offer such options as sweet and savory buns, bread, donuts, croissants, cinnamon rolls, coffee, and more

The address for Komugi Japanese Bakery & Cafe is 68 Prospect Street, Somerville, MA, 02143. Its website can be found at https://bakerycafekomugi.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/bakerycafe.komugi/

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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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Locations of Dumpling Daughter in Brookline and South Boston Are Closed; Exact Status Unknown

What was once a small group of Chinese restaurants known for their dumplings now appears to be down to just one, as two of their locations are shuttered with no information on whether they might return or not.

According to a source, Dumpling Daughter in Brookline is closed, while a Caught in Southie article also mentions that the South Boston location is no longer in business either. While Caught in Southie says that the South Boston location is officially closed, both outlets are labeled "temporarily closed" in Google searches while the phone number for the Brookline location doesn't seem to be working. The original location in Weston does remain open, and their products continue to be found in markets and food shops both locally and nationally. (Another location of the restaurant had once been in Cambridge's Kendall Square, but that one is no longer in operation.)

The website for Dumpling Daughter can be found at https://www.dumplingdaughter.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, August 28, 2025

Oakberry Opens in Arlington Center

A chain with roots in South America has expanded to the Greater Boston area, with a location opening in the northwest suburbs of Boston.

Based on information from posters within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Oakberry is now open in Arlington, moving into a space on Massachusetts Avenue in the center of town. The new spot, which got its start in Brazil, offers such options as build-your-own and signature acai bowls along with smoothies and snacks.

The address for Oakberry in Arlington Center is 476 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02474. The website for the business is at https://www.oakberry.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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Pink Carrot Opens at Lyrik Back Bay in Boston

A pair of cafes known for their healthy fare have been joined by a third location, with this one being within a new mixed-use development in Boston.

According to a source, Pink Carrot is now open at Lyrik Back Bay, an open-air plaza that is located above the Mass Pike by Newbury Street and Massachusetts Avenue. The new location joins its original in the North End along with a second outlet in Chestnut Hill, and like those two, it offers such options as sweet and savory toasts, breakfast burritos, wraps and bowls, smoothies, juices, coffee, and more.

The address for the new Pink Carrot at Lyrik Back Bay is 400 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02115. Its website can be found at https://www.pinkcarrotboston.com/

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Blank Street Coffee to Open in the Former Twin Donuts Space in Allston, Will Keep Iconic Sign

A growing group of coffee shops and coffee carts with roots in New York City will be expanding further into the Boston area, moving into a landmark space where a breakfast and lunch spot had been for 70 years.

According to a press release, Blank Street Coffee is planning to open in Allston, taking over the former  Twin Donuts space on Cambridge Street. The Hamilton Company, a local real estate organization, will restore the neon Twin Donuts sign and the Blank Street branding will be incorporated into the sign, with Jameson Brown, Chairman and CEO of The Hamilton Company stating that "Blank Street's preservation of the iconic Twin Donuts sign really honors the long history of that property as a special place that is beloved in the community." If all goes as planned, the new location of Blank Street Coffee could open in the late spring of 2026 and it will be the eighth Boston-area location.

Twin Donuts dated back to the mid-1950s, offering such items as bagels, muffins, croissants, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, pancakes, French toast, omelets, and salads.

The address for the upcoming Blank Street Coffee in Allston is 501 Cambridge Street, Allston, MA, 02134. The website for the business is at https://www.blankstreet.com/

[Earlier Article]
Twin Donuts in Allston Is Closing

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Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Union Square Donuts to Open at MarketStreet Lynnfield

A local group of donut shops is expanding once again, this time opening its first location (just) outside Route 128.

According a page within the website for MarketStreet Lynnfield, Union Square Donuts is planning to open in that mixed-used development, with an Instagram post from the business showing a photo of its future home there and saying that "We're growing in a major way. A brand new shop is on the horizon, and let's just say it's gonna be a sweet spot. Stay tuned for the official reveal!" Once it opens, the new location will join others in Somerville, Brookline, Boston, and Cambridge.

The website for Union Square Donuts can be found at https://www.unionsquaredonuts.com/

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Mass Hole Donuts Plans to Leave Its Space in Somerville's Teele Square; Hoping to Find New Location

A specialty donut shop that is known in part for its donut holes is making plans to leave its space, as it begins a search for a potential new location.

According to an Instagram post from the business, Mass Hole Donuts in the Teele Square section of Somerville is looking to say farewell to its storefront on Broadway, with the note saying the following:

Our lease is up at the end of September, and unfortunately, we won't be able to stay in our current Somerville home. The city is putting in a new bike lane that will remove every parking spot on our block and surrounding blocks. Since 40–60% of our customers drive to us, that change would have a huge impact on our business and make staying here financially impossible. This isn't about being pro-bike lane or anti-bike lane — we're not trying to be political. We just know what's best for our business, our team, and our customers, and in this case it means we can't renew our lease. This is not a move we want to make. We love our neighbors, our local customers, and the community we've built here. But it's clear we need to find a new space where Mass Hole Donuts can keep thriving. We're looking for our forever location — not a chain, not a satellite shop, not a Mass Hole on every block. Just one perfect home where we can keep making the best damn donut holes in Massachusetts.

The post goes on to say that it is seeking a new space in Somerville or the surrounding communities.

The current address for Mass Hole Donuts is 1157 Broadway, Somerville, MA, 02144. Its website can be found at https://www.massholedonuts.com/

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Tuesday, August 26, 2025

George Howell Coffee Opens at Lyrik in Boston's Back Bay

A small local group of coffee shops and cafes has been joined by a location within a new mixed-use development in Boston.

According to a press release, George Howell Coffee is now open at Lyrik Back Bay, an open-air plaza that is located above the Mass Pike by Newbury Street and Massachusetts Avenue in the Back Bay. The new location, which joins two others downtown along with Newtonville, Cambridge's Harvard Square, and a roastery in Acton, offers specialty coffees as well as pastries from the Rhode Island-based Seven Stars, breakfast and lunch sandwiches, toasts and more, with dessert service on the way later in the year.

The address for the new location of George Howell Coffee at Lyrik Back Bay is 400 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02115. The website for the business is at https://georgehowellcoffee.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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Gen Korean BBQ House to Open in Allston

A chain of Korean barbecue spots will be expanding to Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Gen Korean BBQ House is planning to open in Allston, moving into a space on Harvard Avenue just south of the Brighton Avenue intersection. An earlier Universal Hub article mentioned that the upcoming restaurant will be set up on two floors and that the tables will have grills built into them for patrons to cook their food. 

Gen Korean BBQ House was established in Los Angeles in 2011 and has more than 40 locations today.

The address for the upcoming Gen Korean BBQ House is 121 Harvard Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134. The website for the chain is at https://www.genkoreanbbq.com/

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Monday, August 25, 2025

Lavender Cafe and NaisLee Catering in West Newton Are Closing

A cafe in the western suburbs of Boston and its corresponding catering operation are both shutting down.

According to a source, Lavender Cafe and NaisLee Catering in West Newton are closing, with an Instagram post indicating that their original closing date of September 14 has been moved up and now the last day in operation is August 31. The earlier post mentions the following:

After exhausting all resources and possibilities, and understanding that the risk of staying open was higher than the potential benefits, we had to make the hardest decision ever for us. The obstacles we faced were extraordinary. 

Lavender Cafe first opened in May of this year, offering food items with Venezuelan influences.

The address for Lavender Cafe and NaisLee Catering is 15 Spencer Street, West Newton, MA, 02465. 

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Quickway Japanese Hibachi to Open in Quincy Point

A growing group of Japanese restaurants is expanding to the Greater Boston area, with a location on its way to a strip mall a few miles south of the city.

According to a source, Quickway Japanese Hibachi is planning to open in Quincy Point, moving into a space at Point Crossing where Route 53 meets Route 3A. Based on its other locations (mostly in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C.), the new eatery will likely be a fast-casual spot that features hibachi along with sushi, bento boxes, poke bowls, and more.

Quickway Japanese Hibachi started out in 2012 in Gaithersburg, MD.

The address for the upcoming Quickway Japanese Hibachi in Quincy Point is 479 Washington Street, Quincy, MA, 02169. The website for the business is at https://quickwayhibachi.com/

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Restaurant News for the Week Ending August 24, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between August 18, 2025, and August 24, 2025.


The Star Drive-In in Taunton Is Closing
A retro-style restaurant south of Boston is planning to shut down.
Full Story

Haidilao Hot Pot to Open in Downtown Boston
A chain of hot pot places is expanding to Boston, opening a location in the heart of the city.
Full Story

Illinois-Based Bread & Vine to Expand to Boston
A French bistro in the Midwest is in expansion mode, with one planning to open in the local area.
Full Story

Lab 13 Handroll Bar Opens at Chestnut Hill Square
A new sushi spot has come to a mixed-use development a few miles west of Boston.
Full Story

Angelina Plans to Open in the Back Bay/Fenway Area
It looks like a brand new bakery is coming to a busy intersection 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, August 22, 2025

The Star Drive-In in Taunton Is Closing

A retro-style restaurant south of Boston is planning to shut down.

According to a Facebook post from the business, The Star Drive-In in Taunton is going to be closing its doors, with the note saying the following:

I have a Lease with South Coast Development until March of 2026. The same entity that purchased the property across the street and built the Storage Facility, also purchased The Star Drive-In property a few years ago when I had just signed another 5 year lease for The Star Drive-In with St.Ives. I will not get into the specifics of those issues, but many, within the city government and various departments know what has transpired over the last 4 years, they know what is going on and they have not offered any help or assistance even after my repeated pleas for help. Due to those issues, I have had to make the very difficult decision to close at the end of the terms of my lease-March 2026....I'm very proud of everything I’ve been able to accomplish and give back over the last 10 years. I am closing on my terms. I will do my best to find my next best thing.

Current owner Erica Madden took over the restaurant in 2016, which has been in operation since the mid-1960s; the dining spot has been known for its comfort food including clam chowder, burgers, hot dogs, tuna melts, chow mein sandwiches, pizza, calzones, lobster rolls, fish and chips, ice cream, and more.

The address for The Star Drive-In is 205 Myricks Street, East Taunton, MA, 02718. Its website can be found at https://thestardrivein.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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Popeyes to Open in Brookline

A chain of chicken spots is going to be opening a location that should be popular with college students.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page (via a Brookline News article), Popeyes is planning to open in Brookline, moving into a space on Commonwealth Avenue by Boston University on the Boston line that had been home to a location of Mission cannabis dispensary. Once it opens, the new outlet will join a number of others in the Greater Boston area, including by Northeastern University in Boston, Roslindale, Roxbury, West Roxbury, Newton, Brockton, Chelmsford, Everett, Lawrence, Lynn, Randolph, Quincy, and Woburn.

The address for the upcoming location of Popeyes in Brookline is 1024B Commonwealth Avenue, Brookline, MA, 02446. The website for the chain can be found at https://www.popeyes.com/

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Big Fun Clay Pot Plans to Open in the Former Baby Cafe Space in Brookline

It looks like a new Chinese restaurant featuring food items found in Southern China and Hong Kong will be coming to Brookline, taking over the space where a location of another dining spot featuring Southern Chinese and Hong Kong food had been.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Big Fun Clay Pot is looking to open on Beacon Street, moving into the former Baby Cafe space just west of the Boston line. A Brookline News article mentions that the proposed eatery will be under the same ownership as Big Fun Cafe in the Wollaston section of Quincy and it will feature claypot rice options.

Another location of Baby Cafe remains open in Allston.

The address for the upcoming Big Fun Clay Pot is 1006 Beacon Street, Brookline, MA, 02446.

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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, August 21, 2025

Haidilao Hot Pot to Open in Downtown Boston

A chain of hot pot places is expanding to Boston, opening a location in the heart of the city.

According to a licensing board hearing page, Haidilao Hot Pot is planning to open in downtown Boston, moving into a space by the corner of Washington Street and Avery Street. An earlier Boston Globe article mentioned that the eatery is indeed on its way, saying that it would have seating for at least 200, and the hearing notice does say that it plans to have seating for 248 in one large room on the ground floor of the building with "various seating areas and dining tables."

Haidilao got its start in China in the mid-1990s and has a handful of locations in the United States today, with its closest to Boston being in the Flushing section of Queens, NY.

The address for the upcoming Haidilao Hot Pot is 601 Washington Street, Boston, MA, 02111. The website for the business can be found at https://www.haidilao-inc.com/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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Illinois-Based Bread & Vine to Expand to Boston

A French bistro in the Midwest is in expansion mode, with one planning to open in the local area.

According to an article from the Peoria Journal Star, Bread & Vine is making plans to expand to Boston, with more locations also on the way to Illinois and Florida. The article mentions that new restaurants will debut in Geneva, IL, and Tampa, FL this fall, with a Boston outlet "soon to follow," though no address has been given as of yet. Once it does open, expect a fast-casual restaurant that offers comfort food with international influences, with a focus on French fare.

Bread & Vine's flagship location is in Galena, IL, serving such options as smoked salmon croissants, Croque Monsieur, Cubanos, quiche lorraine, ham and cheese croquettes, cheese and charcuterie boards, Roman-style pizza, mussels, gyros, tacos, and more.

The website for Bread & Vine is at https://breadandvinerestaurants.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, August 20, 2025

Lab 13 Handroll Bar Opens at Chestnut Hill Square

A new sushi spot has come to a mixed-use development a few miles west of Boston.

According to a press release, Lab 13 Handroll Bar is now open at Chestnut Hill Square, which is located along Route 9 by the Newton/Brookline border. The new restaurant is a specialty omakase-style hand roll place that offers set menus with 3, 4, 5, or 6 options along with individual hand rolls and sashimi. The website for Lab 13 Handroll Bar has a statement on it saying that "Sushi is truly a rice dish, not just about the fish, and we honor that with premium seaweed, house made soy sauce, and top quality seafood in every roll."

The address for Lab 13 Handroll Bar is 210 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467. Its website can be found at https://www.lab13handroll.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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Angelina Plans to Open in Boston's Back Bay/Fenway Area

It looks like a brand new bakery is coming to a busy intersection in Boston.

According to a Bluesky post from @conciergeboston.bsky.social, Angelina is planning to open near where the Back Bay and the Fenway meet, taking over the space at the corner of Boylston Street and Massachusetts Avenue where a branch of Bank of America had been. A Bluesky post from @thedrewstarr.bsky.social mentions that this is part of a chain that got its start in Manhattan and which offers items with both Asian and Italian influences, including bombolones, cakes, gelato, pizza and pasta, sandwiches, and more.

The address for the upcoming Angelina is 133 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115.

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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, August 19, 2025

Al's Cafe to Open on High Street in Boston's Financial District

Last week, it was reported that a local group of dining spots known for their subs would be opening a new location in downtown Boston, and now we have learned that yet another outlet is on its way to the downtown area as well.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Al's Cafe is planning to open in the city's Financial District, moving into the former U&D Kitchen space on High Street. As mentioned in an earlier article, another Al's will also be coming to School Street in Downtown Crossing (and it will apparently be called Al's School Street Cafe), with both new locations joining others on State Street and at the corner of Essex Street and South Street (both of which are also in the downtown area), as well as outlets in the Seaport District and in the Kendall Square section of Cambridge.

The address for the upcoming location of Al's School Street Cafe in the Financial District is 184 High Street, Boston, MA, 02110. The website for all locations can be found at at https://alscafes.com/

[Earlier Article]
Al's School Street Cafe Plans to Open in the Former Clover Space in Boston's Downtown Crossing

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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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Hilliards Chocolates to Expand, Opening a New Shop in West Newton

A local group of candy shops that dates back more than 100 years and currently has three stores south of Boston is planning to open a new location west of the city.

According to an article in The Newton Beacon, Hilliards Chocolates is going to be opening in West Newton, moving into a space on Chestnut Street that had been home to a location of Bank of America. Once the new outlet opens, it will join others in North Easton, Norwell, and Mansfield, and based on those stores, expect to see a variety of chocolate items along with other types of candies.

Hilliards got its start back in 1924 in the southern suburbs of Boston, with Perley and Jessie Hilliard establishing the business.

The address for the upcoming location of Hilliards Chocolates is 1 Chestnut Street, West Newton, MA, 02465. The website for the company is at https://www.hilliardscandy.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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Dorchester Food Co-op Is in Danger of Closing, Could Be Shutting Down in Two Months

It looks like the future of a community grocery store and cafe in Boston that debuted a couple of years ago is in question.

According to a notice from the business, Dorchester Food Co-op may have to shut down soon, with the post from the Bowdoin Street spot saying the following:

URGENT: Facing Closure in Two Months, Please Shop to Keep the Dorchester Food Co-op....Please, support what you own: now and each week, the Co-op needs an increase in sales or else the cash reserves for operational costs will run out in two short months!...We're committed to doing everything we can in the next few months. Please join us—shop, share, give, and order catering today.

Dorchester Food Co-op first opened in the fall of 2023, being billed (when it debuted) as "Boston’s only community- and worker-owned food co-op" and featuring fresh, organic foods, with its focus being on bringing affordable, healthy options to the neighborhood.

The website for Dorchester Food Co-op is 195 Bowdoin Street, Dorchester, MA, 02122. Its website is at https://www.dorchesterfoodcoop.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, August 18, 2025

NY Bagel Factory Plans to Open in the Former KJ's Caffe Space in Acton

A local group of bagel shops continues to be in expansion mode, as it has plans to open a new one northwest of Boston, taking over the space where a location of a pair of cafes had been until closing recently.

According to a source, NY Bagel Factory is planning to open a new location in Acton, moving into the former KJ's Caffe space on Great Road. Once it opens (possibly this fall), the new outlet will join others in Newtonville, Framingham, and Southboro, and based on those shops, the new one would likely be offering breakfast items, baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee in addition to bagels.

The address for the upcoming location of NY Bagel Factory in Acton is 145 Great Road, Acton, MA, 01720. The website for the business is at https://thenybagelfactory.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 August 17, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between August 11, 2025, and August 17, 2025.


Al's School Street Cafe Plans to Open in the Former Clover Space in Boston's Downtown Crossing
It looks like a local group of dining spots known for their subs will be opening a new location in the heart of Boston.
Full Story

Boloco Is Closing Its Children's Hospital Location
A local chain of restaurants known in part for its burritos and bowls will soon be closing another one of its Boston locations, leaving only one remaining in the city.
Full Story

Bakey Opens at Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston
A small group of bakeries with a well-known Israeli baker behind them has been joined by a fifth location, and this one is in the heart of Boston.
Full Story

The Goat to Open in Salem
A group of country bars with four locations north of Boston will be opening a fifth, and this will be its closest one to the city.
Full Story

New City Microcreamery to Open in Arlington Center, Replacing Abbott's Frozen Custard
A local group of ice cream shops will be expanding to the northwest suburbs of Boston, taking over the space where a location of a small chain of frozen custard shops 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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Friday, August 15, 2025

The Nightly Opens in Dorchester's Savin Hill Neighborhood

A new restaurant that resides above a grocery store in a Boston neighborhood has opened after being in the works for quite awhile.

According to a source, The Nightly is now open in Dorchester, moving into a space above The Daily Market in Savin Hill that includes an outdoor patio. The website for the new dining spot mentions that Chef Jeff Fournier is involved with the place, with Fournier previously being behind the now-closed Thompson House Eatery in Jackson, NH, and before that, Waban Kitchen and 51 Lincoln, both of which were in Newton. The menu for The Nightly shows such options as a maki roll, Cuban sandwich, pesto, lasagna, pulled pork, and more.

Plans for The Nightly were first announced more than four years ago, about a year after The Daily Market first opened.

The address for The Nightly is 110 Savin Hill Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02125. Its website can be found at https://thenightlyboston.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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Al's School Street Cafe Plans to Open in the Former Clover Space in Boston's Downtown Crossing

It looks like a local group of dining spots known for their subs will be opening a new location in the heart of Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Al's School Street Cafe is planning to open in Downtown Crossing, taking over the space on School Street that had been home to a location of Clover, and this has been confirmed in a licensing hearing page within the city's website. Once it opens, the new location of Al's will join others on State Street and at the corner of Essex Street and South Street (both of which are also in the downtown area), along with outlets in the Seaport District and in Cambridge's Kendall Square.

The address for the upcoming location of Al's School Street Cafe is 27 School Street, Boston, MA, 02108. The website for all locations is at https://alscafes.com/

[Earlier Article]
Clover in Boston's Downtown Crossing Is Closing; New Location Is Being Planned Nearby

(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, August 14, 2025

Boloco Is Closing Its Children's Hospital Location

A local chain of restaurants known in part for its burritos and bowls will soon be closing another one of its Boston locations, leaving only one remaining in the city.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Boloco is shutting down at Boston Children's Hospital on Longwood Avenue, with an article from the Boston Business Journal stating that it is slated to close by September 1. Once it shutters, the only location left locally will be on Congress Street in downtown Boston, though another can also be found in Hanover, NH.

Boloco's roots date back more than 25 years, with the Boloco brand replacing "The Wrap" in 2005; there had once been a number of locations throughout the Greater Boston area and elsewhere in New England.

The website for Boloco can be found at https://boloco.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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Curds & Co. in Brookline Village Is Closing

A specialty cheese shop is going to be closing its doors.

According to a source, Curds & Co. in Brookline Village is shutting down, with a note on the website for the Washington Street shop saying the following:

The Curds&co team will celebrate 8 years of bringing great cheese and happiness to Brookline with one big month of thanks and celebration before closing our doors on Friday, September 12th. As you may know, we have been actively searching for a new team to own the store since we have moved to Sicily in 2023. It was our hope and dream to keep our fab team of cheese mongers slinging the Swiss and pouring the sauv blanc. Unfortunately, our search a new owner has not been successful....These 8 years have been amazing and you all have been some of the greatest humans I've ever known. You are what will be missed most in our little hamlet of cheesedom.

Curds & Co. first opened in the summer of 2017, being known for its variety of cheese and charcuterie options along with its weekly "cheese school" classes.

The address for Curds & Co. is 288 Washington Street, Brookline, MA, 02445. Its website is at https://curdsandco.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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Uncommon Ice Cream to Open in the Former Lobstah on a Roll Space in Boston's South End

It appears that a new ice cream shop will be coming to the South End of Boston, and it will be taking over the space where the original location of a restaurant known in part for its oversized lobster rolls had been.

According to a Twitter/X post from @carolineN108, Uncommon Ice Cream is planning to open on Columbus Street, moving into the former Lobstah on a Roll space a couple of blocks east of the Massachusetts Avenue intersection. No specific information can be found on the upcoming place as of yet, with a sign in the storefront simply saying "coming soon," so keep checking back for updates as they come in.

Locations of Lobstah on a Roll can still be found on Newbury Street in the Back Bay along with Worcester Public Market and in St. Augustine, FL.

The address for the upcoming Uncommon Ice Cream is 537 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118.

[Earlier Article]
Lobstah on a Roll in Boston's South End Has Closed

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


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Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Matcha Loves Boba Soft-Opens in the Former Fish Taco Space in Boston's North End

A new matcha spot is in the process of opening in the North End of Boston, replacing a seafood place that closed earlier this year after less than a year in business.

According to a couple of sources, Matcha Loves Boba has soft-opened on Hanover Street, taking over the former Fish Taco space while being a venture from the Love Art team which was also involved with Fish Taco (they also are involved with such places as Love Art Sushi and Poke by Love Art). The website for Matcha Loves Boba mentions that its grand opening is slated for August 16.

The address for Matcha Loves Boba is 227 Hanover Street, Boston, MA, 02113. Its website can be found at https://www.matchalovesboba.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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Virsa De Punjab to Open in the Former La Toscana's Space in Wellesley

An Indian restaurant in the western suburbs of Boston will be expanding to another space west of the city.

According to Kiat Cormier of ChewOnThis, who posted within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Virsa De Punjab is planning to open in Wellesley, moving into the former La Toscana's space on Central Street. Once it opens, the new location will join its other restaurant on Great Road in Wellesley and based on that location, the new place will focus at least in part on North Indian food.

La Toscana's first opened in the spring of 2022, initially focusing on pizza eventually morphing into an Italian restaurant with a full liquor bar before closing this spring. 

The address for the upcoming location of Virsa De Punjab in Wellesley is 99 Central Street, Wellesley, MA, 02482.

[Earlier Article]
La Toscana's in Wellesley Has Closed

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


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Gianna's Kitchen to Open in the Former Minuteman Diner Space in Bedford

Last month, it was reported that a suburban diner was closing down, and now we have learned that a new restaurant will be moving into the space.

According to a source, Gianna's Kitchen is planning to open in Bedford, taking over the space on Great Road that had been home to Minuteman Diner until closing at the end of July. A Bedford Citizen article mentions that the upcoming place will be an "Italian steakhouse" that will be open for breakfast, lunch, and (eventually) dinner and that the owner is Edwin Alexanderian, who runs the adjacent Invisible Touch Body Shop along with the WilloughVale Inn and Cottages on Lake Willoughby in Westmore, VT. No opening date has been given for Gianna's Kitchen as of yet, with Alexanderian saying that it will debut "soon."

Minuteman Diner had been in the space since January of 2020.

The address for the upcoming Gianna's Kitchen is 363 Great Road, Bedford, MA, 01730.

[Earlier Article]
Minuteman Diner in Bedford Is Closing

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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, August 12, 2025

Bakey Is Opening at Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston

A small group of bakeries with a well-known Israeli baker behind them is about to be joined by a fifth location, and this one will be in the heart of Boston.

According to a press release, Bakey is slated to open at Faneuil Hall Marketplace on Friday, August 15, offering items such as babka, burekas, and challah, and this one will be the only outlet to offer the Boston Cream Babka year round. Once it opens at 4 S Market Street (by the front entrance of Quincy Market's West End), the new location will join others by Boston Common, Cambridge's Kendall Square, Brookline, and Newton.

Uri Scheft, who is co-founder of Bakey, is also behind Lehamim Bakery in Israel, and he co-founded Breads Bakery in New York City.

The address for Bakey can be found at https://bakeybabka.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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Ellis Square Social in Beverly Has Closed

A casual upscale restaurant and cocktail bar on the North Shore has shut down.

According to a source, Ellis Square Social in Beverly is no longer in business, with a note on the website for the Cabot Street spot saying that "Ellis Square Social has officially closed its doors. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for the wonderful years and memories!" The dining and drinking spot first opened in the summer of 2018, replacing Barrel House American Bar and focusing on small plates while also offering a variety of craft cocktails.

The address for the now-closed Ellis Square Social was 252 Cabot Street, Beverly, MA, 01915.

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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 Goat to Open in Salem

A group of country bars with four locations north of Boston will be opening a fifth, and this will be its closest one to the city.

According to a source (Gary Goldblatt), The Goat is planning to open in Salem, moving into the space on Derby Street that had been home to a location of American Flatbread. Once it debuts, the new outlet will join others in Newburyport along with Manchester, Hampton, and Portsmouth, NH, and based on those spots, it will be a burger and whiskey bar featuring live country music.

The address for the upcoming location of The Goat in Salem is 311 Derby Street, Salem, MA, 01970. The website for all locations is at https://goatbarnation.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, August 11, 2025

New City Microcreamery to Open in Arlington Center, Replacing Abbott's Frozen Custard

A local group of ice cream shops will be expanding to the northwest suburbs of Boston, taking over the space where a location of a small chain of frozen custard shops had been.

According to multiple sources, New City Microcreamery is planning to open in Arlington, taking over the space on Broadway in the center of town that had been home to an outlet of Abbott's Frozen Custard. Once it opens, the new location of New City will join others in Cambridge's Central Square, Sudbury, and Hudson, the last of which is its original shop, debuting back in 2015.

Another location of Abbott's Frozen Custard in Arlington Heights had shut down this spring as well.

The address for the upcoming location of New City Microcreamery in Arlington Center is 311 Broadway, Arlington, MA, 02474. The website for all locations is at https://newcitymicrocreamery.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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Restaurant News for the Week Ending August 10, 2025

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between August 4, 2025, and August 10, 2025.


When Pigs Fly to Close Locations in Brookline, Jamaica Plain
A Maine-based bread company is closing two of its retail outlets in the Greater Boston area.
Full Story

Bandoleros May Be Opening in the Former Tavern on 28 Space in Andover
A pair of casual upscale Mexican restaurants west of Boston could be joined by a third, with this one coming to a space north of the city.
Full Story

Row 34 Opens in Kenmore Square
A local group of restaurants known for their seafood has opened a second location within the city of Boston.
Full Story

Burg & Shaw Plans to Open in Downtown Boston
An unusual type of fusion restaurant may be on its way to the heart of the city.
Full Story

Roger's Fish & Chips Plans to Open at Logan Airport in East Boston
A new fish and chips place may be on its way to the airport, and a very familiar name is behind it.
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, August 08, 2025

When Pigs Fly to Close Locations in Brookline, Jamaica Plain

A Maine-based bread company is closing two of its retail outlets in the Greater Boston area.

According to an Instagram post from the business, When Pigs Fly is shutting down shops in Brookline and Jamaica Plain, with the note saying the following:

Thank You, Brookline & Jamaica Plain ❤️ After many wonderful years, our retail locations in Brookline and Jamaica Plain will be closing on August 17th. Unfortunately, we were unable to renew our leases. We are so grateful to both communities for your support, your love of great bread, and the memories we've shared. This isn't goodbye—our breads are still available at our Kittery, Lexington and Somerville locations and at SendBread.com. Thank you for being part of the When Pigs Fly family.

In addition to its retail stores, When Pigs Fly also sells its breads at markets and stores throughout the region, and a full-service restaurant can be found at the Kittery location.

(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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Bandoleros May Be Opening in the Former Tavern on 28 Space in Andover

A pair of casual upscale Mexican restaurants west of Boston could be joined by a third, with this one coming to a space north of the city.

According to a source, Bandoleros is looking to open in Andover, with an Andover News article saying that it hopes to open in the former Tavern on 28 space on Main Street. If approved by the town select board, the new location would join the original location at Devens along with another in Concord.

Tavern on 28 closed its doors in March after being in the space since 2023; before that, it was a different concept under the same ownership called Town Market.

The address for the proposed location of Bandoleros in Andover is 429 S Main Street (Route 28), Andover, MA, 01810. The website for the business can be found at https://www.mybandoleros.com/

[Earlier Article]
Tavern on 28 in Andover Is Closing

(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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Life Alive Opens in Burlington

Last fall, it was reported that a local group of cafes featuring healthy, organic food was bringing a new location to the northern suburbs of Boston, and now we have learned that it is open.

According to a press release, Life Alive is now open in Burlington, and as mentioned in an earlier article, it has moved into the space where a location of Blaze Pizza had been (in Burlington Square, formerly the Vinebrook Plaza where Mall Road meets Middlesex Turnpike). The new location of Life Alive joins a number of others locally, including in Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Dedham, Jamaica Plain, Lowell, Salem, and Somerville.

The address for the new location of Life Alive is 91 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA, 01803. The website for all locations can be found at https://www.lifealive.com/

[Earlier Article]
Life Alive Plans to Open in the Former Blaze Pizza Space in Burlington

(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, August 07, 2025

Row 34 Opens in the Kenmore Square Section of Boston

Last fall, it was reported that a local group of restaurants known for their seafood would be opening a second location within the city of Boston, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to the website for the business, Row 34 is now open in Kenmore Square, and as mentioned in an earlier article here, it has moved into the former Island Creek Oyster Bar/Pescador space next to the Hotel Commonwealth. The new location joins another in Fort Point along with other outlets in Cambridge's Kendall Square, Burlington, and Portsmouth, NH.

The address for the new location of Row 34 in Kenmore Square is 498 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA, 02215. The website for all locations is at https://www.row34.com/

[Earlier Article]
Row 34 Plans to Open in the Former Island Creek Oyster Bar/Pescador Space in Boston's Kenmore Square

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


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


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Darul Kabab in Cambridge Has Apparently Closed

It looks like a halal restaurant in Cambridge has shut down, and it is not known whether it could reopen in another location at some point.

According to several sources, Darul Kabab on Massachusetts Avenue just outside of Porter Square has closed, with phone calls place to the business this week not being able to go through. The site in which it resided is planning to be redeveloped, with an apartment building being slated to go up there, according to a Cambridge Day article.

The restaurant, which first opened in 2010, was known for its Bangladeshi, Indian, and Pakistani fare.

The address for the now-closed Darul Kabab was 2072 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02140.

(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, August 06, 2025

Bey Plans to Open in Boston's South End

It looks like a new restaurant is on its way to the South End of Boston.

According to a licensing board hearing page, Bey is planning to open on Shawmut Avenue, with the address indicating that it will be taking over the space a few storefronts away from Formaggio Kitchen where a yoga studio had been. The notice mentions that the dining spot is seeking a full liquor license and that it hope to have two levels of seating, with space for 41 people on the ground floor and another 26 in the basement.

It appears that Bey could be opening in early September, though no other information has been given as of yet (including what might be on the menu).

The address for the upcoming Bey is 280 Shawmut Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118. Its website will be at https://beyboston.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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Burg & Shaw Plans to Open in Downtown Boston

An unusual type of fusion restaurant may be on its way to the heart of Boston.

According to a licensing board hearing page, Burg & Shaw is looking to open on Boylston Street, with the address indicating that it would be moving into a space near the Tremont Street intersection and across from Boston Common. The notice states that the eatery would be takeout-only, while Boston Uncovered says that it will feature both burgers and shawarma. (It isn't yet known what else might be on its menu, but more should be known after the hearing this week.)

The address for the proposed Burg & Shaw is 80 Boylston Street, Boston, MA, 02116.

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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, August 05, 2025

Sally's Apizza May Soon Be One Step Closer to Opening at South Bay in Dorchester

Last spring, it was reported that an award-winning Connecticut pizzeria was looking to open two more locations in the Greater Boston area, and we have now learned that one of them could be taking a big step toward being closer to reality by later this week.

According to a licensing board hearing page, Sally's Apizza is slated to meet with the city on Wednesday, August 6 to discuss its plans to open at South Bay in Dorchester, with the notice saying that the proposed 4,965-square-foot spot looks to have indoor seating for 138 including a capacity of 15 at a bar and another 48 on an outdoor patio while also seeking a full liquor license. Back in May of 2024, it was announced that Sally's was planning to open locations at both South Bay and in Concord, the latter of which is currently under construction and will be located just east of the Concord Rotary; another outlet is in the works are in Boston's Fort Point as well.

Sally's Apizza first opened in New Haven in 1938.

The address for the upcoming Sally's Apizza at South Bay is 9 District Avenue, Dorchester, MA, 02118. The website for all locations is at https://sallysapizza.com/

[Earlier Article]
Sally's Apizza to Open in Dorchester and Concord

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


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


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Monday, August 04, 2025

Roger's Fish & Chips Plans to Open at Logan Airport in East Boston

A new fish and chips place may be on its way to Logan Airport, and a very familiar name is behind it.

According to a licensing board hearing page, Roger's Fish & Chips is seeking a common victualler license and a full liquor license for a space at Terminal A (Unit AS-2-A02), with the eatery having 700 square feet of space and being in an area of the terminal where there are other food vendors along with a food court seating area. The manager listed for the spot is Roger Berkowitz, who was president and CEO of Legal Sea Foods before selling the business in 2020, and who currently runs Roger's Fish Co., an online seafood company that sells and ships flash-frozen seafood across the country.

There doesn't appear to be a website for Roger's Fish & Chips (and more should be known about the proposed dining spot by later this week), but the website for Roger's Fish Co. is at https://www.rogersfishco.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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