Cava Opens in Burlington

A Washington, D.C.-based chain of fast-casual Mediterranean spots has opened another new location in the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a source, Cava is now open in Burlington, moving into a space on Middlesex Turnpike in a strip mall just north of the Burlington Mall. The new location offers such options as bowls, pitas, salads, and more, and it joins a number of others in the Greater Boston area, including five outlets north of the city in Beverly, Chelmsford, Lynnfield, North Andover, and Woburn.

Cava had been looking to open in the old Sears Auto Center at the Burlington Mall back in 2018, but those plans apparently never came to fruition. 

The address for the new location of Cava at in Burlington is 101 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA, 01803. The website for all locations is at https://cava.com/

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Mona Opens in South Braintree Square

Earlier this year, it was reported that a new dining spot was on its way to a southern suburb of Boston, and it now we have learned that it is open.

According to several sources, Mona is now open in Braintree, and as mentioned in an earlier article, it has moved into the storefront on Washington Street in South Braintree Square where Loco's had once been. The new eatery focuses on Mediterranean fare, including such items as bowls, pitas, Greek fries and falafel bites

The address for Mona is 913 Washington Street, Braintree, MA, 02184. Its website is at https://monakitchen.com/

[Earlier Article]
Mona Plans to Open in the Former Loco's Space in South Braintree Square

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Tulum Tacos and Tequila Opens in Brockton

A brand new Mexican restaurant has come to a space south of Boston.

According to a source, Tulum Tacos and Tequila is now open in Brockton, moving into a space on Crescent Street where it meets Quincy Street. The menu shows such options as tableside guacamole, street corn, taquitos, enchiladas, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, chimichangas, fajitas, carne asada, and arroz con pollo, and it also offers a variety of margaritas and other cocktails/mixed drinks.

The address for Tulum Tacos and Tequila is 793 Crescent Street, Brockton, MA, 02302. Its website can be found at https://tulumtacosandtequila.net/

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Hamersley's Pantry Is Opening in South Boston

A food market that has a very familiar name is on its way to South Boston.

According to a post from Caught in Southie along with an article from The Boston Globe, Hamersley's Pantry is planning to open on W Broadway, with the address indicating that it will move into a space between D Street and E Street. The upcoming market will offer a variety of items, including sweet treats, sauces, snacks, "pantry picks" such as pasta and olive oil, grab-and-go meals, breads, houseware and gifts, and more, and the owner of the shop is Sophie Dunn, daughter of Gordon Hamersley of the renowned South End restaurant Hamersley's Bistro which closed down in 2014.

The address for Hamersley's Pantry is 341 W Broadway, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its website is at https://hamersleyspantry.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/hamersleyspantry/

[February 27, 2026 update: Caught in Southie says that Hamersley's Pantry is now open.]

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Kaori Cafe Opens in East Boston

A new cafe has debuted in a Boston neighborhood.

Based on information from a source, along with a check on the spot over the weekend (and an article from Caught in Eastie), Kaori Cafe is now open in East Boston, moving into a space on Meridian Street. Caught in Eastie mentions that the new spot offers bowls, panini, pastries, coffee, tea, matcha, tea, and smoothies, while its Instagram page indicates that it is open seven days a week.

The address for Kaori Cafe is 303 Meridian Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/kaori.cafe_eastie/

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Gangnam Spice Opens in Jamaica Plain

A brand new Korean street food spot has debuted in a Boston neighborhood.

According to a message sent by Adam Gaffin of Universal Hub along with an article from Jamaica Plain News, Gangnam Spice is now open in JP, moving into a space on Centre Street in Jackson Square. The article mentions that the new place offers Korean fried chicken and street snacks, while a check on its social media indicates that the business started out as a food truck that was first launched in April of 2024.

The address for Gangnam Spice is 225 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, MA, 02119. Its website can be found at https://www.gangnamspice.com/

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Elite Dough Cookies Is Opening a Brick-and-Mortar Shop in the Former Cookies by Design Space in Needham

The person behind a local food truck that sells cookies is opening a permanent shop in the western suburbs of Boston.

According to a couple of sources, Kai Moreto is planning to open Elite Dough Cookies in Needham, moving into the former Cookies by Design space on Highland Avenue in Needham Heights (which Moreto also ran). An earlier Needham Local article mentioned that Moreto will also be keeping his food truck in operation, while the store will be offering the same "jumbo cookies" offered by the truck.

The address for Elite Dough Cookies in Needham is 54 Highland Avenue, Needham Heights, MA, 02494. Its website can be found at https://elitedoughcookies.com/

[March 11, 2026 update: A post from @jeremyk.bsky.social on Bluesky mentions that Elite Dough Cookies is now open in Needham.]

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Nirvana Tea House & Cafe in Millis Has Closed

A vegan eatery in the southwest suburbs of Boston has shut down.

According to a Bluesky Post from @jeremyk.bsky.social, Nirvana Tea House & Cafe in Millis is no longer in business, with a note on its website saying the following: 

Dear Friends and Guests,
With heartfelt gratitude, we want to share that Nirvana Tea House & Café is closing its doors as of [November 3]. This has been a place of connection, peace, and community-made special because of you. Your smiles, conversations, and kindness have filled our hearts and made this journey unforgettable. Though this chapter is coming to an end, the memories and friendships created here will always remain. Thank you for being part of our story and for making Nirvana such a beautiful place to be.

Nirvana Tea House & Cafe first opened its doors in 2020.

The address for the now-closed Nirvana Tea House & Cafe was 969 Main Street Unit 2, Millis, MA, 02054.

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Santa Fe Burrito Grill Plans to Open in North Reading

A growing group of fast-casual Mexican restaurants may be opening another new location in the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a source, Santa Fe Burrito Grill is looking to open in North Reading, with a web page within the town's website indicating that it plans to open in a space on Main Street. If it does open, the new location would join others in Acton, East Boston, Franklin, Melrose, Revere, Rockland, and Weymouth, and it would offer such items as burritos, nachos, tortas, tacos, bowls, and more.

The address for the proposed location of Santa Fe Burrito Grill in North Reading is 109 Main Street, North Reading, MA, 01864. The website for all locations can be found at https://santafetogo.com/

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Silver Whisk Bake Shop & Chocolatier Opens in the Former Emma's Macarons Space in Waltham

The person behind an online bakery business has opened a brick-and-mortar shop in the western suburbs of Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Silver Whisk Bake Shop & Chocolatier is now open in Waltham, moving into the former Emma's Macarons space on Moody Street. An earlier Waltham Channel Facebook post mentioned that owner Nancy Zhou is known for such items as gourmet cakes, chocolates, cookies, cupcakes and other sweet treats, and she focused on running the business online for ten years before opening the new shop in Waltham.

The address for Silver Whisk Bake Shop & Chocolatier (which is currently open on Fridays and Saturdays) is 248 Moody Street, Waltham, MA, 02453. Its website is at https://silverwhiskbakeshop.com/

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Agavero Guac & Margs Opens in South Boston

Earlier this year, it was reported that a brand new Mexican restaurant would be coming to South Boston, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to an article from Caught in Southie, Agavero Guac & Margs is now open on West Broadway, moving into the former Purple Shell space by the Dorchester Avenue intersection. As mentioned in an earlier article, it initially looked like this would be another location of Ocho Cafe, which can be found in Weymouth, Plymouth, and Westford along with another in West Hartford, though the plans changed, instead having a different name and concept.

The address for the Agavero Guac & Margs is 11 West Broadway, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its website can be found at https://agaveroguacandmargs.com/

[Earlier Article]
Agavero Guac & Margs Plans to Open in the Former Purple Shell Space in South Boston

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

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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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Earnest Drinks in Cambridge's Kendall Square Has Closed

A combination cafe/bar/ice cream shop in Cambridge has shut down, though a Somerville ice cream shop that is under the same ownership remains in operation.

According to multiple sources, Earnest Drinks in Kendall Square is no longer in business, with its social media indicating that the Binney Street spot had a farewell party this past Saturday evening. A note from the business says the following about the closure (including mentioning that they appear to be making new plans for the space):

We had a tough go of it signing a lease in one world and opening in a completely different one. We opened the doors in the teeth of the pandemic in Sept 2020, scrambling on a new idea every few weeks to keep the lights on. Since we opened, it always felt like we were a few months out from getting our legs underneath us which is an exhausting way to run an enterprise if you can imagine. Additionally, we never quite cracked how to communicate about Earnest Drinks in a way that broke through. Are we a bar? An ice cream shop? A cafe? Yes. We are! Is that scary? No! We're still meeting people who know all about Gracie's, but have never heard of Earnest Drinks. Anyway, for whatever reason, it didn't work and it's time to move on. And we're very excited about what's coming next in the space and will be sharing info on that SOON, but for now, THANK YOU.

The original Gracie's Ice Cream, which first opened in Somerville's Union Square in 2014, remains open for business.

The address for the now-closed Earnest Drinks was 399 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA, 02142.

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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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Eastern Edge Food Hall to Open in Cambridge's Kendall Square

A new food hall is on its way to Cambridge.

According to a press release, Eastern Edge is planning to open in Kendall Square in the early part of 2026, moving into a ground-floor space at 290 Main Street on the the eastern edge of the MIT campus. A total of nine food and drink vendors are slated to open in the food hall, including five that have already been announced: Clover (vegetarian/vegan fare), Juicy Jay's (burgers), Perillas (Korean BBQ), Everybody Gotta Eat (fried chicken), and Viet Citron (Vietnamese). The space will span an entire city block and will have seating for 275, and it will also include two bars that offer beer, wine, and cocktails--and a Venetian-style cafe and bar will serve artisanal coffee, Italian pastries, and lighter fare during the day while being a wine bar at night.

Gather Group, which is a subsidiary of the Alabama-based Ithaka Hospitality Partners, is behind Eastern Edge.

The website for the upcoming Eastern Edge food hall is at https://www.easternedgefoodhall.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/easternedgefoodhall/

[January 19, 2026 update: The website for the food hall states that Lone Star Taco Bar will join the vendors mentioned above.]

[February 13, 2026 update: According to multiple sources, Eastern Edge food hall is now open.]

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Restaurant News for the Week Ending November 23, 2025

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

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Twisted Tree Cafe Opens in West Medford
A pair of cafes in the western suburbs of Boston have been joined by a third location, and this one is a bit closer to the city.
Full Story

North End Lobster Co. Opens in the North End
A new seafood spot has come to the North End of Boston after being in the works for a year and a half, and it has an ownership connection to several well-known Italian restaurants.
Full Story

26 Boston-Area Restaurants Selected for The Michelin Guide, Including 311 Omakase Receiving a Star
The Michelin Guide has chosen a number of restaurants in the Greater Boston area for the first time, and one South End dining spot has received a Michelin star.
Full Story

The Hollows Opens in Teele Square
A new restaurant has replaced a decades-old Tex-Mex spot in Somerville.
Full Story

White Mountain Creamery in Chestnut Hill Is Closing; New City Microcreamery to Replace It
A longtime ice cream shop that is popular with college students is going to be shutting down, and a growing local group of ice cream spots will be replacing it.
Full Story

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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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Twisted Tree Cafe Opens in West Medford

A pair of cafes in the western suburbs of Boston have been joined by a third location, and this one is a bit closer to the city.

According to a Bluesky post from @debbiejsr.bsky.social, Twisted Tree Cafe is now open in West Medford, moving into the ground floor of the Doherty West Medford condo complex on High Street. The new location joins two others in Lincoln--one on Lincoln Road by the commuter station and the other at the deCordova Museum--and it offers coffee, tea, salads, toasts, sandwiches, bowls, and more, including gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free options.

The address for the new location of Twisted Tree Cafe in West Medford is 421 High Street, Medford, MA, 02155. The website for all locations is at https://www.thetwistedtreecafe.com/

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

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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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Localito Cafe Opens in Medford Square

A brand new cafe has debuted a few miles north of Boston, and it has a connection to a local group of Mexican restaurants. 

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Localito Cafe has opened in Medford, moving into a space on Riverside Avenue in Medford Square. The poster mentions that they are starting out with coffee and some pastries as they work out final details, and they will soon start adding additional menu items. An earlier post in the Facebook group page mentioned that the coffeehouse will be under the same ownership as that of Tenoch, which has seven locations in the Greater Boston area including in Medford Square (El Tacuba, which is also in Medford Square, is run by the same people as well).

The address for Localito Cafe is 30 Riverside Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155. Its website is at https://www.localitocafe.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/localitomedford/

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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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Atlantic Poke Opens in Framingham

A pair of dining spots west of Boston that feature poke bowls have been joined by a third location, and this one is the first one inside Route 495.

According to a source along with the website for the business, Atlantic Poke is now open in Framingham, moving into a space at Shoppers World. The new location of the eatery joins others in Marlborough and Shrewsbury, and it offers poke bowls, bubble tea, seaweed chips, brownies, marshmallow treats, and more.

The address for the new location of Atlantic Poke at Shoppers World is 1 Worcester Road (Route 9) Unit 521B, Framingham, MA, 01701. The address for all three locations is at https://www.atlanticpoke.com/

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Tama Sushi & Hibachi Opens in Natick

A bit more than a year ago, it was reported that a new Japanese restaurant was planning to replace another Japanese spot in the western suburbs of Boston, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to a source along with an article from the Natick Report, Tama Sushi & Hibachi is now open in Natick, and as mentioned in an earlier article here, it has taken over the former Oga's Japanese Cuisine space on Route 9. In addition to sushi and hibachi, the new restaurant also offer such options as ramen, nori tacos, bento boxes, dumplings, tempura, and more, though it doesn't appear to offer ramen, as had been previously mentioned when the plans were first announced in September of 2024.

The address for Tama Sushi & Hibachi is 915 Worcester Street (Route 9), Natick, MA, 01760. Its website is at https://www.tamanatick.com/

[Earlier Article]
Tama Plans to Open in the Former Oga's Space in Natick

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Lunch on the Charles Opens in South Natick

A new eatery featuring takeout food at lunchtime has come to the western suburbs of Boston.

According to a source along with an article from The Natick Report, Lunch on the Charles is now open in South Natick, moving into a space on Eliot Street across from the dam/waterfall. The new spot it takeout only (the 140-square-foot space has no seating) and offers, soups, salads, and sandwiches including a number of gluten-free options.

The address for Lunch on the Charles is 57 Eliot Street (Route 16), South Natick, MA, 01760. Its website can be found at https://www.lunchonthecharles.com/

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North End Lobster Co. Opens in Boston's North End

A new seafood spot has come to the North End of Boston after being in the works for a year and a half, and it has an ownership connection to several well-known Italian restaurants.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, North End Lobster Co. is now open on Hanover Street, with an Instagram post indicating that it debuted on November 13. The menu for the place shows such options as lobster bisque, clam chowder, crab cakes, grilled octopus, fried scallops, oysters, lobster tacos, clam rolls, fish and chips, lobster pie, lobster macaroni and cheese, lobster ravioli, seafood risotto, and more.

The owners of Giacomo's (which is also on Hanover Street) are behind North End Lobster Co.

The address for North End Lobster Co. is 204 Hanover Street, Boston, MA, 02113. Its website can be found at https://www.nelobsterco.com/

[Earlier Article]
Owners of Giacomo's in Boston's North End Plan to Open New Restaurant in the Neighborhood

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Shine's Fresh Asian in Belmont Center Has Closed; Exact Status Unknown

An Asian restaurant in the western suburbs of Boston appears to have shuttered, and it isn't know exactly why it closed or if it could return in the future.

According to a source, Shine's Fresh Asian in Belmont Center is no longer in business, with a sign out front at the Leonard Street storefront seeming to confirm that it has closed (phone calls to the dining spot indicate that the number is out of service). The restaurant first opened in 2016 in the former Asai space and focused on Asian fusion fare.

The address for Shine’s Fresh Asian was 30 Leonard Street, Belmont, MA, 02478.

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26 Boston-Area Restaurants Selected for The Michelin Guide, Including 311 Omakase Receiving a Star

The Michelin Guide has chosen a number of restaurants in the Greater Boston area for the first time, and one South End dining spot has received a Michelin star.

According to a press release, 311 Omakase on Tremont Street is one of 26 restaurants to be selected, with the place being the only one locally to receive one star (none received two or three stars). Other spots that received recognition include:

Bib Gourmand:

Bar Volpe, South Boston
Fox & the Knife, South Boston
Jahunger, Cambridge
Mahaniyom, Brookline
Pagu, Cambridge
Sumiao Hunan Kitchen, Cambridge

Michelin Recommended:

Asta, Boston
Carmelina's, Boston
Giulia, Cambridge
La Padrona, Boston
Lenox Sophia, South Boston
Moeca, Cambridge
Mooncusser, Boston
Neptune Oyster, Boston
Nightshade Noodle Bar, Lynn
Oleana, Cambridge
Pammy's, Cambridge
Select Oyster Bar, Boston
Somaek, Boston
Thistle & Leek, Newton
Toro, Boston
Urban Hearth, Cambridge
Wa Shin, Boston
Woods Hill Pier 4, Boston
Zhi Wei Cafe, Boston

Cocktail award:

Mahaniyom, Brookline

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Maxine's On Saint James in Roxbury Has Closed

It looks like a Southern-style dining spot in a Boston neighborhood has shut down.

According to a source, Maxine's On Saint James in Roxbury is no longer in business, with a check on the website for the Dudley Street place indicating that the site has been taken down, and we have been told that a new Latin American eatery called Grace's is apparently open in its space, though little information is available for that spot. Maxine's offered such items as potato salad, jambalaya, etouffee, fried boneless pork chops, wings, macaroni and cheese, red beans and rice, banana pudding, and bread pudding.

The address for the now-closed Maxine's (and the new Grace's) is 304 Dudley Street, Roxbury, MA, 02119.

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The Hollows Opens in Somerville's Teele Square

Early this year, it was reported that a new restaurant was replacing a decades-old Tex-Mex spot in Somerville, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to several sources, including a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, The Hollows is now open in Teele Square, moving into the old Rudy's Cafe space on Holland Street. As mentioned earlier, Charlie Redd of Dragon Pizza in Davis Square is one of the people behind the restaurant, which focuses on comfort food items and New American fare including deviled eggs, grilled octopus, steamed mussels, American chop suey, burgers, fried chicken, tagliatelle, oysters, and more.

The address for The Hollows is 248 Holland Street, Somerville, MA, 02144. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/thehollowsteelesq/

[Earlier Article]
The Hollows Plans to Open in the Former Rudy's Cafe Space in Somerville's Teele Square

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White Mountain Creamery in Chestnut Hill Is Closing; New City Microcreamery to Replace It

A longtime ice cream shop that is popular with college students is going to be shutting down, and a growing local group of ice cream spots will be replacing it.

According to an article in The Heights, White Mountain Creamery by Boston College in Chestnut Hill is closing its doors, and New City Microcreamery will be taking over the Commonwealth Avenue space. The article mentions that the shop is slated to shutter on November 24, and New City will apparently open in the beginning of December.

White Mountain Creamery first started out in 1983, coming under the current ownership 10 years later; New City Microcreamery began in Hudson in 2015 and now has locations in Hudson, Cambridge's Central Square, Arlington, and Sudbury.

The website for White Mountain Creamery is at http://www.whitemtncreamery.com/ while the website for New City Microcreamery is at https://newcitymicrocreamery.com/

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

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

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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 November 16, 2025

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

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16C in Quincy Is Closing
A restaurant south of Boston that is known in part for its steak tips and pizza--and which is owned by the niece of a well-known local restaurateur--is shutting down.
Full Story

Tambo 22 in Chelsea Is Closing; Michael G's Bar and Bistro to Move into Its Space
A Peruvian-Italian restaurant is saying farewell, though another dining spot that recently closed will be reborn in its space.
Full Story

Aatma Curry House Is Getting Ready to Open Within Widowmaker Brewing in Brighton
A local brewery will soon be serving Indian food within one of its locations.
Full Story

Three New Dining/Drinking Concepts Coming to South Station Tower in Boston
A trio of dining and drinking concepts will be coming to a new mixed-use tower, and a familiar name is involved.
Full Story

Taiyaki NYC and The Dough Club in Harvard Square Are Closing
An ice cream shop and a doughnut shop that are both based in New York City will be closing its location in Cambridge.
Full Story

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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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Gateway Canteen Plans to Open in Boston's Chinatown Neighborhood

A new Hong Kong-style eatery may be coming to downtown Boston.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Gateway Canteen is planning to open in Chinatown, moving into a space on Hudson Street. The notice states that the basement-level dining spot will be a "Hong Kong–style café serving hot and cold Chinese teas, coffee, soft drinks, sandwiches, and snacks."

While the hearing notice says that the address for the upcoming Gateway Canteen is 19-23 Hudson Street, it appears that the exact address will be 21B Hudson Street, based on an Instagram post from the Chinatown Resident Association.

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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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16C in Quincy Is Closing

A restaurant south of Boston that is known in part for its steak tips and pizza--and which is owned by the niece of a well-known local restaurateur--is shutting down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, 16C in Quincy is closing its doors in late December, with a Facebook post from the Cottage Avenue dining spot showing a multi-page note from owner Kerri Lynch Delaney that concludes with the following:

Thank you for sharing your stories, your milestones, your laughter, and even your hard days with us. You've filled these walls with life and helped make this place feel like home....But this isn't goodbye. You'll still see me around Cottage Ave at Kilroy's! Come say hi, grab a cocktail, a French toast cupcake, or maybe even a coffee (stay tuned on that one!). Before we officially say farewell at the end of December, come in for one last meal, one more laugh, one more broccoli Caesar! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything!

16C first opened in 2016, offering classic American and New American fare, including the original Quiet Man steak tips (The Quiet Man was a bar in South Boston). Kerry is the niece of Barbara Lynch, who once was behind such places as Menton, Drink, Sportello, The Butcher Shop, B&G Oysters, and No. 9 Park, all of which were in Boston.

The address for 16C is 16 Cottage Avenue, Quincy, MA, 02169. Its website can be found at https://16crestaurant.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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Tambo 22 in Chelsea Is Closing; Michael G's Bar and Bistro to Move into Its Space

Last month, it was reported that a Peruvian-Italian restaurant in Chelsea was planning to add some new menu items that come from an acclaimed North End dining spot that closed during the pandemic, and now we have learned that the restaurant is now going to be saying farewell, though another dining spot that recently closed will be reborn in its space.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page along with a Facebook post from the business,  Tambo 22 on Adams Street is shutting down, with the post saying the following:

With heavy hearts, we share that Tambo 22 will close its doors on December 20. The past few years have challenged the entire restaurant world. The pressure of rising costs, staffing obstacles, and the realities of our location made this one of the hardest decisions we've ever had to make. What will stay with us forever are the friendships, the laughter, and the moments shared at our tables — memories that will always be part of our story....We are deeply grateful to our loyal guests and devoted team for being with us on this journey.

A source tells us (via a North Shore Eats Facebook post) that the space will actually be home to a familiar name, as the shuttered Michael G's on Revere Beach Parkway will be reborn as Michael G's Bar and Bistro within the Tambo space.

Tambo 22, which first opened in March of 2020, announced in October that it was adding some of the best-known menu items from Taranta (which had been located on Hanover Street until shuttering in a few months later), with owner Jose Duarte saying that "Taranta represented the bridge between two cultures — Italy and Peru — and Tambo 22 gives those flavors a new home....It's about keeping that story alive while inviting a new generation of diners to experience it."

The address for Tambo 22 (and the upcoming Michael G's Bar and Bistro) is 22 Adams Street, Chelsea, MA, 02150. The website is for Tambo is at https://tambo22chelsea.com/

[Earlier Article]
Tambo 22 in Chelsea Plans to Bring Back Menu Items from Taranta in Boston's North End

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

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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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Mother's East Tavern Plans to Open in South Boston

It looks like a new dining and drinking spot may be on its way to South Boston.

According to a licensing board hearing page within the City of Boston website, Mother's East Tavern is planning to open in Southie, moving into a space on Dorchester Street in the old Telegraph Hill space. The notice mentions that the place looks to have a single dining room with two banquettes and a bar that has 15 stools, and the manager listed is Alec Barber Grossi, who had been a bar manager and bartender at several restaurants and bars in California and the New Orleans area, according to his LinkedIn page. 

The address for the proposed Mother's East Tavern is 289 Dorchester Street, South Boston, MA, 02127. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/motherseasttavern/

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

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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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Kuya Jay's Ube Kafe Is Moving from Cambridge to Somerville

A Filipino spot is in the process of moving to a new location.

According to its Instagram page, Kuya Jay's Ube Kafe is getting ready to open in Somerville, moving from its previous location on Rogers Street in Cambridge's Kendall Square area to Medford Street in Somerville's Winter Hill area. The new location plans to soft open this weekend, opening its doors on November 15 and 16 at 11:00 AM, and based on the now-closed Cambridge shop, expect to see sandwich cookies, sweet rolls, milk tea, latte, matcha, lemonade, hot chocolate, and more. 

The address for the new location of Kuya Jay's Ube Kafe is 415 Medford Street, Somerville, MA, 02145. Its website is at https://ubekafe.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/ubekafe/

[November 18 update: According to its social media, Kuya Jay's Ube Kafe now appears to be fully open in its new space in Somerville.]

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

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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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Sea Street Pizza in Weymouth Reopens, Is Now Offering Bar Pizza

A pizza spot on the South Shore that temporarily closed a few months ago is open once again, and it is now offering a popular regional food.

According to its website and social media, Sea Street Pizza in Weymouth is open once again, with its space being renovated and its menu being upgraded. The dining spot now offers bar pizza, with its website indicating that it also serves sandwiches, pasta dishes, salads, and bowls in addition to the pizza. (Some of the toppings for the bar pizza include linguica, hamburg, pepperoni, roasted red peppers, bacon, meatballs, ham, breaded chicken, and mushrooms.

The address for Sea Street Pizza is 12 Sea Street, Weymouth, MA, 02191. Its website can be found at https://www.seastreetpizza.com/

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

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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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Michael G's in Chelsea Is Being Reborn as Michael G's Trattoria

A few months ago, it was reported that an Italian restaurant just north of Boston had shut down, and now we have learned that it is being reborn.

According to a Facebook post from owner Michael Giannasca, Michael G's in Chelsea is going to be reopening as Michael G's Trattoria, with the post from the Revere Beach Parkway restaurant saying the following:

Hi, I'm a little premature but just so excited to announce that Maryann and I are re-opening The New [Michael G's Trattoria] More detail to be posted in the next few weeks but I'm planning on a January 2026 opening We are planning on a small lunch menu with fresh salads, artisan sandwiches, home made soups, pasta and our famous BBQ, We will have waitress service in the afternoon with imported wines, craft beers and a specialty cocktail menu

Michael G's shuttered over the summer after approximately five years in business, though as mentioned in an earlier article here, at the time of the announcement they were keeping the possibility open for reopening the place in the future.

[November 14 update: According to a source (via a North Shore Eats Facebook post), Michael G's Trattoria is actually going to be opening in a different space, moving into the Adams Street storefront where Tambo 22 currently resides.]

[February 13, 2026 update: A Facebook post mentions that Michael G's Trattoria is now open.]

[Earlier Artice]
Michael G's in Chelsea Has Closed

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

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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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Aatma Curry House Is Opening Within Widowmaker Brewing in Brighton

A local brewery is going to be serving Indian food within one of its locations.

According to a Facebook post from the business, Widowmaker Brewing is teaming up with Aatma Curry House which will be taking over the kitchen of the Brighton location, with one of the offerings mentioned being an Aatma Burger with pickled onions, Amul cheese, and sauce, all on a ghee-toasted bun, and chaat-er tots are mentioned as well. (The post also says that "We are proud to introduce you to our new permanent culinary collaboration...where together we will bring two cultures of craft for one undeniable experience.") No specific debut date has been given for Aatma Curry House, though it appears that its opening is imminent.

The original location of Widowmaker in Braintree has also been collaborating with a food vendor--Mike & Lenny's, which features South Shore-style bar pizza.

The address for Widowmaker Brewing in Brighton is 190 N Beacon Street, Brighton, MA, 02135. The website for the business is at https://www.widowmakerbrewing.com/ while the website for Aatma Curry House is at https://www.aatmacurryhouse.com/

[November 21 update: According to its social media, Widowmaker now has Aatma Curry House up and running within its Brighton space, with a look at the menu showing such options (in addition to the Aatma Burger) as paneer, chaat, kebabs, fried rice, butter chicken, dosas, naan, and chai.]

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

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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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Pressed Cafe Plans to Open in Dedham

Last week, it was reported that a local group of dining spots that focus on healthy, freshly-made options had expanded to another space in the Boston suburbs, and now we have learned that yet another new location is coming to the suburbs as well.

According to a source, Pressed Cafe is planning to open in Dedham, with both the source and an Atlantic Retail page indicating that it will be moving into a space at the former TGI Friday's property. Once it opens, the new outlet of the eatery will likely offer such options as soups, panini, bowls, fresh-pressed juices, coffee, and more, and it will join others in Boston's Back Bay and Seaport District, Burlington, Chelmsford, Lawrence, Newton, and a brand new one in Woburn, along with four in New Hampshire (another new one is also in the works for Beverly).

The address for the upcoming location of Pressed Cafe in Dedham is 750 Providence Highway, Dedham, MA, 02026. The website for all locations can be found at https://www.pressedcafe.com/

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

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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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Three New Dining/Drinking Concepts Coming to South Station Tower in Boston

A trio of dining and drinking concepts will be coming to a new mixed-use tower in the heart of Boston, and a familiar name is involved.

According to a press release, The Moseley, Proper Fare, and an as-of-yet unnamed bar/lounge will be opening at South Station Tower, and David Morton of Episcope Hospitality (and who is part of the family behind Morton's Steakhouse) will be heading up the three concepts. The release says that The Moseley will be a casual fine dining restaurant while Proper Fare will be an all-day market and cafe, and the bar and lounge will be an extension of The Moseley, transitioning throughout the day from a place to get coffee during the day to a spot to get an evening cocktail.

All three concepts hope to open sometime in the spring of 2026.

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

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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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Cava Opens at MarketStreet Lynnfield

A Washington, D.C.-based chain of fast-casual Mediterranean spots has opened a new location in the northern suburbs of Boston.

According to a press release, Cava is now open at MarketStreet Lynnfield, and like its other locations, it offers such options as bowls, pitas, salads, and more. The new outlet joins a number of others in the Greater Boston area, including four outlets north of the city in Beverly, Chelmsford, North Andover, and Woburn.

The address for the new location of Cava at MarketStreet Lynnfield is 335 Market Street, Lynnfield, MA, 01940. The website for all locations can be found at https://cava.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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Taiyaki NYC and The Dough Club in Cambridge's Harvard Square Are Closing

An ice cream shop and a doughnut shop that are both based in New York City will be closing its location in Cambridge.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Taiyaki NYC and The Dough Club in Harvard Square are shutting down, with an Instagram post from the business saying the following:

After many sweet memories, it's time to say goodbye. Our shop will be closing on Sunday, November 23, 2025. Come visit us one last time for your favorite mochi donuts & Taiyaki ice cream. Thank you for all the love and support over the years, we couldn't have done it without you.

The note doesn't mention anything about the status of the Taiyaki location in Boston's Seaport District. (The Cambridge location of Taiyaki NYC and The Dough Club debuted in 2022 while the Boston location of Taiyaki opened in 2019.)

The address for Taiyaki NYC and The Dough Club in Harvard Square is 6 Church Street, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for Taiyaki NYC can be found at https://taiyakinyc.com/ while the website for The Dough Club is at https://www.thedoughclub.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 November 9, 2025

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

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Fable Brewing Company to Open in Woburn
A brewer that is based in the northern suburbs of Boston has found a permanent home for the business.
Full Story

Pressed Cafe Opens in Woburn
A local group of dining spots that focus on healthy, freshly-made options has expanded to another space in the Boston suburbs.
Full Story

Hawthorne By-The-Sea in Swampscott Is Closing
A North Shore restaurant that has been around for nearly 60 years is shutting down.
Full Story

Holdfast Specialty Seafood Co. Is Opening in Allston
A brand new casual seafood spot is on its way to Boston, and the people behind the place include a couple of fine-dining chefs.
Full Story

SJ's Opens in Boston's Leather District
A well-known local chef and restaurateur has opened a new dining spot in downtown Boston.
Full Story

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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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Fable Brewing Company to Open in Woburn

A brewer that is based in the northern suburbs of Boston has found a permanent home for the business.

According to a Facebook post, Fable Brewing Company is going to be opening a facility in Woburn, with the post saying the following:

We're thrilled to announce that Fable Brewing Company has officially secured a location for our brick-and-mortar home! Nestled at 3 Gill Street in Woburn, Massachusetts, this space will soon be filled with the warmth of community, the hum of conversation, and the clink of glasses raised in celebration. This isn't just a building—it’s the beginning of something magical. A place where stories are shared, legends are brewed, and every pint has a tale to tell. Stay tuned for more updates as we build out our space and bring the Fable vision to life.

Fable was first established by James Sparks in 2020, with an earlier bcattv.org article saying that the original plan was for Sparks to open a facility in his hometown of Burlington.

The website for Fable Brewing Company is at https://www.fablebrewingco.com/

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

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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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Pressed Cafe Opens in Woburn

A local group of dining spots that focus on healthy, freshly-made options has expanded to another space in the Boston suburbs.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Pressed Cafe is now open in Woburn, moving into a space on Washington Street just south of the Route 128 intersection. The new location offer such options as soups, panini, bowls, fresh-pressed juices, coffee, and more, and it joins others in Boston's Back Bay and Seaport District, Burlington, Chelmsford, Lawrence, and Newton, along with four in New Hampshire (another new one is in the works for Beverly as well).

The address for the new location of Pressed Cafe in Woburn is 369 Washington Street, Woburn, MA, 01801. The website for all locations is at https://www.pressedcafe.com/

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

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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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Hawthorne By-The-Sea in Swampscott Is Closing

A North Shore restaurant that has been around for nearly 60 years is shutting down.

According to a source (Chris Howe) and an article in the Swampscott Tides, Hawthorne By-The-Sea on Humphrey Street in Swampscott is closing its doors, as the Athanas family has told the town that it has decided to no longer continue operating the dining spot beyond its current agreement. It appears that the restaurant will close sometime this month, as Stanley J. Paine Auctioneers is hosting an online-only auction at paineauctioneers.com with the auction closing on November 18. At this point in time, it isn't known exactly what might become of the space, which was purchased by the town in 2022 (ongoing discussions since 2022 haven't yet resulted in a definitive plan for the restaurant space or the property).

An earlier Swampscott Tides article mentions that Hawthorne-by-the-Sea was built in 1967.

The address for Hawthorne-by-the-Sea is 153 Humphrey Street, Swampscott, MA, 01907.

[November 18 update: According to its social media, Hawthorne-by-the-Sea is now closed.]

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

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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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ZaZiBar in Boston's Seaport District, Zaz at City Hall Plaza in Downtown Boston Have Closed; Hyde Park Location Remains Open

A couple of locations of a trio of fusion spots in Boston have shut down.

According to an Instagram post, ZaZiBar in the Seaport District and Zaz at City Hall Plaza are no longer in business, with the note saying the following:

Every chapter comes with growth, and this one means a lot to us. As we close our City Hall and ZaZiBar Seaport locations, we just want to take a moment to thank everyone who's supported us over the years. From the City Hall crew who pulled up for lunch every week to the late nights in Seaport filled with music and good vibes, you helped make those spaces special. ZaZ isn't going anywhere. Our Hyde Park restaurant is still home for takeout, catering, and events. ZaZ On Wheels is serving up lunch and late-night eats seven days a week in Seaport. And now, our family has grown with @homebyzazpvd, our new Afro-Caribbean restaurant and lounge in Rhode Island....Thank you for being part of the journey.

The original location of Zaz first opened in Hyde Park in 2011, offering Caribbean, Latin, and Asian fusion cuisine. Its website can be found at https://www.zazrestaurant.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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Boxfish Is Opening in Watertown

A new seafood restaurant is on its way to the western suburbs of Boston, and it has an ownership connection to a dining spot that used to be in the same space before moving.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Boxfish is planning to open in Watertown, moving into the space on Mt Auburn Street that had been home to Cha Yen Cookery before it moved across the street to its current location. Based on the Facebook post, it looks like the upcoming eatery will be a casual seafood place that will offer such options as clam chowder, grilled fish, mussels, and lobster, and the chef and owner of Cha Yen Cookery--which focuses on Thai cuisine--is behind it.

The address for Boxfish is 613 Mt Auburn Street, Watertown, MA, 02472. Its website is at https://boxfish.food/

[January 7, 2026 update: According to an article from Boston Magazine, Boxfish has soft-opened.]

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

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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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Hearth and Hug Opens in Somerville

Several months ago, it was reported that a Somerville shop known for its gourmet roasted nuts was closing and that a bakery with a location in Boston would be moving into its space. Now we have learned that the bakery is up and running--and that this is a move for the place rather than a second location.

According to an Instagram post from the business, Hearth and Hug Bakery opens today, with the note indicating that its official opening is Saturday. Below is what was posted:

We're so excited to finally open our doors and invite you in! Stop by today between 7am-12pm for our soft opening! While we may be limited on some menu items, we will still have coffee, drinks, breads, breakfast lunch, and tons of pastries to try! Can't make it today? Come by Saturday, the 8th for our grand opening! We can't wait to see you all!!!

Hearth and Hug Bakery had been located at Boston Public Market, but it closed in September in anticipation of a move to the new Highland Avenue storefront, which was previously home to Q's Nuts (Q's Nuts continues to operate within Boston Public Market).

The address for the new home for Hearth and Hug is 349 Highland Avenue, Somerville, MA, 02144. Its website can be found at https://www.hearthandhugbakery.com/

[Earlier Article]
Q's Nuts in Somerville Is Closing; Hearth and Hug Bakery to Replace It

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

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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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