Boston Restaurant Talk: April 2026

Thursday, April 30, 2026

Wu Li Xiang - Shanghai Kitchen to Open in Cambridge's Central Square

It looks like a new restaurant featuring Chinese fare is on its way to Cambridge.

According to a Bluesky post from troysch1.bsky.social, Wu Li Xiang - Shanghai Kitchen is planning to open soon on Massachusetts Avenue in Central Square, with a sign out front indicating that it may be featuring soup dumplings. A Cambridge License Commission page mentions that the upcoming dining spot plans to have an inside capacity of 36 and an outside capacity of 24 and with the proposed manager being Yumei Yu, and it looks to be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. No specific opening date has been given as of yet, nor has a menu been seen, so keep checking back for updates.

The address for the upcoming Wu Li Xiang - Shanghai Kitchen is 411 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139.

(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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Santa Fe Burrito Grill to Open in Stoughton

A growing group of fast-casual Mexican restaurants is opening yet another new location, and this one will be in the southern suburbs of Boston.

According to a source, Santa Fe Burrito Grill is planning to open in Stoughton, with a photo showing a "coming soon" sign out front at the Washington Street space that had previously been home to Sartorio Recipe. Once it opens, the new location will join others in Acton, East Boston, Franklin, Malden, Melrose, North Reading, Revere, Rockland, and Weymouth, and it will likely offer such items as burritos, tortas, tacos, nachos, bowls, and more.

The address for the upcoming location of Santa Fe Burrito Grill in Stoughton is 577 Washington Street, Stoughton, MA, 02072. The website for all locations is at https://santafetogo.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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Smokey Bones Closes All Locations, Including Taunton and Tyngsboro

All locations of a chain of BBQ spots have closed--including the two remaining locations in Eastern Massachusetts--as the chain has gone out of business.

According to its website, locations of Smokey Bones in Taunton and Tyngsboro are no longer in operation, with both outlets saying that they are closed Monday through Sunday, while a note on the home page says the following about the chain itself:

After 27 incredible years, Smokey Bones has officially closed its doors as of Monday, April 27th. This isn't just the end of a restaurant—it's the closing of a chapter filled with shared meals, celebrations, traditions, and countless memories. From first bites to final toasts, you made this place more than just BBQ—you made it home. We are deeply grateful for every visit, every smile, and every moment you chose to spend with us. Serving this community has been an honor we'll never forget. While the smokers have cooled and the doors are closed, the spirit of what we built together will always stay with us.

An article from the Restaurant Business website says that the now-bankrupt franchising company FAT Brands, which includes Smokey Bones under its umbrella of chains, is having all of its brands being sold except for Smokey Bones, saying that it "will not survive the bankruptcy process."

Smokey Bones, which was originally founded in Florida and became part of FAT Brands in 2023, used to have locations in Peabody and Stoughton as well.

The website for Smokey Bones can be found at https://smokeybones.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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Wednesday, April 29, 2026

Jafra Cafe & Lounge to Open in Cambridge's Inman Square

A brand new Middle Eastern spot is on its way to Cambridge.

According to a Bluesky message from troysch1.bsky.social, Jafra Cafe & Lounge is getting ready to open in the city's Inman Square neighborhood, moving into a space on Hampshire Street a couple of blocks south of the Cambridge Street intersection. The Instagram page for the business indicates that it will be a Middle Eastern cafe and hookah lounge and that it will have gluten-free, vegan, and halal options with a photo showing what appears to be falafel, hummus, and pita.

The address for the upcoming Jafra Cafe & Lounge in Inman Square is 187 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/jafracafelounge/

(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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Widowmaker Brewing Co. Is Opening a Beer Garden in Quincy's Wollaston Neighborhood

A local brewer is going to be moving its seasonal beer garden to a new location, and it will sit where an historic theatre that dated back to the 1920s had once been.

Based on information from a Facebook post from the business along with a post from the Quincy Is Everything Facebook page, Widowmaker Brewing Co. is apparently opening a beer garden in the Wollaston section of Quincy, with this being a move from Kilroy Square in the downtown area. The brewery says the following in its post:

We have seen and appreciated the countless messages from people bummed by the idea of us not returning to Quincy for Year 8 of our Beer Garden. This week the shovels went into the ground, we are moving but we are not leaving. Follow @wollastongardens

QIE mentions that the beer garden will be at the former Wollaston Theatre site on Beale Street and that it plans to debut on May 15, being open Thursday through Saturday.

The website for the upcoming beer garden (which will be called Wollaston Gardens) is at https://www.thewollastongardens.com/ while its Instagram page is at https://www.instagram.com/wollastongardens/

(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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The Zebra Room Opens Below Yvonne's in Boston's Downtown Crossing

A tiny new subterranean steakhouse has opened in downtown Boston, and a local restaurant and hospitality group is behind the spot.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, the Zebra Room is now open in Downtown Crossing, residing in the space below Yvonne's at 2 Winter Place that had previously been home to the Gallery and before that, the Rebel Room. The COJE Management Group (Yvonne’s, Lolita, My Girl, Mariel, RUKA, Coquette) is behind the steakhouse, which is accessed through Yvonne's Library bar by way of a hidden bookshelf door and which features such options as steaks, seafood, rack of lamb, pork chops, martinis, and a variety of wines.

The website for the Zebra Room is at https://www.zebraroom.com/

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

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

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Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Mon Kou in Attleboro Is Closing

Yet another Polynesian restaurant in the local area is going to be shutting down.

According to an article from NBC 10 WJAR, Mon Kou in Attleboro is closing its doors next month, with a note on the website for the Washington Street dining spot saying the following:

With heavy hearts, Mon Kou Restaurant will be permanently closing its doors on Sunday, May 31st, 2026 due to retirement. This decision was not made lightly, and it comes with a mix of emotions — gratitude for the countless memories, pride in the meals we've shared, and sadness in saying goodbye. This family-owned business, under the leadership of 2 generations, has been serving the Attleboro community for 54 years....We want to extend our deepest thanks to our loyal customers, dedicated staff, and everyone who has been part of our journey. You've made the Mon Kou Restaurant more than just a place to eat — you've made it a home. We hope you'll join us in these final weeks to share one last meal, a few more stories, and a heartfelt goodbye.

The note goes on to say that the restaurant will be open for full service through May 8, with limited service running from May 9 to May 31 where only seated bar/lounge service and take out will be available. (They also say that gift certificates that are not redeemed by May 31 will be forfeited.)

Mon Kou joins a number of other Polynesian restaurants in the region to close over the years, including Bali Hai in Lynnfield, Weylu's in Saugus, Makaha in Acton, Imperial Terrace in Quincy, Tiki Hideaway in Boston's Fenway neighborhood, The South Pacific in Newton, and Tiki Island in Medford (the last of which has been replaced by Ho Win Palace, which offers Chinese food and sushi).

The address for Mon Kou is 676 Washington Street (Route 1), Attleboro, MA, 02703. Its website can be found at https://www.monkou.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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Figaro's in Boston's Leather District to Expand to the Fenway

A popular Italian sandwich shop in downtown Boston is going to be expanding to another part of the city.

According to multiple sources, Figaro's in the Leather District is going to be joined by another location in the Fenway, moving into a space on Peterborough Street. (This has been confirmed in a Facebook post from the business.) Once it opens, expect a variety of sandwiches including such possibilities as an Italian, hot ham, steak and cheese, meatball, eggplant, chicken pesto, and more.

In addition to downtown Boston, there had once been a location of Figaro's at Revere Beach as well.

The website for Figaro's can be found at https://www.figarosboston.com/

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

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

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

Monday, April 27, 2026

Uptown Social Opens in Boston's South End

A highly-anticipated soul food spot has debuted in Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Uptown Social is now open in the city's South End, moving into the space on Columbus Avenue where Darryl's Corner Bar & Kitchen had been until closing in late 2023, and before that, The Stork Club, Circle, Bob's Southern Bistro and Bob The Chef's. As mentioned in an earlier article here, Nia Grace (who was involved with Darryl's and who also runs Grace by Nia in the Seaport District) is behind the new restaurant, which focuses on Southern comfort food and cocktails while also featuring live music.

The address for Uptown Social is 604 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA, 02118. Its website can be found at https://uptownsocialboston.com/

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

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

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

Dairy Witch in Salem Has Closed

A North Shore ice cream spot that has been around for a long time has shut down.

According to multiple sources, Dairy Witch in Salem will not be reopening for the season, with a Facebook post from the Boston Street spot saying the following:

After 74 years, Dairy Witch is closing. That is not an easy sentence to type. There is a weight to it. Bea and Pete Polemenako opened the window at 117 Boston Street in 1952, the same year their daughter Marietta was born. Marietta has stood by that window her entire life, but will be retiring this year. We will not be opening this spring. There will not be another season....We'll be sharing more in the coming days. Old photos, stories, and a few things we've been working on, so a piece of Dairy Witch can stick around even after the window stays closed. For now we just wanted Salem to hear it from us before anyone else. Thank you.

Dairy Witch has been known over the years for its variety of ice cream flavors along with its sundaes, banana splits, frappes, freezes, malts, and more.

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

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

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

Restaurant News for the Week Ending April 26, 2026

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between April 20, 2026, and April 26, 2026.

Maple & Ash Opens in Boston's Seaport District April 30
A high-end steakhouse based in Chicago is on the verge of expanding to the waterfront.
Full Story

The NexMex Thing in Peabody Is Closing, Moving to Lynn
A Mexican restaurant on the North Shore is going to be leaving its current location and will be reopening in another space not all that far away.
Full Story

Cape Cod Coffee Plans to Open in Framingham
A group of coffee shops on the Cape will apparently be expanding to a space in the Greater Boston area.
Full Story

Blackbird Doughnuts, Sally's Sandwiches to Open in East Boston
The team behind a handful of gourmet doughnut shops and sandwich shops in the Boston area will be bringing the two concepts to a waterfront location.
Full Story

99 Restaurant in Charlestown May Close, Be Replaced by Apartments
A longtime location of a local group of restaurants could become the site of residential development.
Full Story

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

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

Friday, April 24, 2026

Nagomi Bento Expands, Opening a New Location in Cambridge

A Somerville dining spot that is known for its bento boxes has expanded to Cambridge.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Nagomi Bento at Bow Market now has a storefront on Massachusetts Avenue between Porter Square and Harvard Square, with the new location offering bento boxes along with miso soup, fried chicken, fried tofu, sushi, coffee, and tea. The business was established in 2022, initially as popups at farmers' markets and local events.

The address for the new location of Nagomi Bento is 1670 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02138. The website for the business can be found at https://nagomibento.com/

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

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

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

Càphê Collective Opens in Cambridge's Central Square

A brand new cafe has come to Cambridge, and it is attached to a cultural community space.

According to a Bluesky post from @troysch1.bsky.social, Càphê Collective is now open in Central Square, residing at the Street Theory Collective on Massachusetts Avenue. It looks like the new spot offers coffee, tea, pastries, and baked goods, though it only has a limited presence online at this point in time so exact details have not been given as of yet.

Street Theory Collective features art and music while also having space for events.

The address for Càphê Collective is 541 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/caphecollective/

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

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

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

Thursday, April 23, 2026

Sundae Society Opens in Marshfield

A new spot for burgers, ice cream, and more has come to a South Shore town.

According to a Facebook post from realtor Sean Murphy, Sundae Society is now open in Marshfield, moving into a space on Route 139 a bit east of the center of town where Route 3A heads south. The new eatery features smash burgers and sundaes while also offering hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, fries, and more.

The address for Sundae Society is 1810 Ocean Street, Marshfield, MA, 02050. Its website can be found at https://sundae-society.com/

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

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

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

Maple & Ash Opens in Boston's Seaport District April 30

A year and a half ago, it was reported that a high-end steakhouse based in Chicago would be expanding to the Boston waterfront, and now we have learned that it is on the verge of debuting.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, Maple & Ash is slated to open in the city's Seaport District on April 30, with the restaurant moving into a space within the Superette development on Seaport Boulevard between Pier 4 Boulevard and B Street. The article mentions that the new spot will be what restaurateur Danny Grant says is a "wood-fired restaurant that happens to serve steak" while joining other locations in Chicago, Miami, and Scottsdale.

The address for Maple & Ash in the Seaport District is 131 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA, 02210. The website for all locations is at https://www.mapleandash.com/

[Earlier Article]
Maple & Ash Is Apparently Expanding to Boston, Opening a Location in the Seaport District

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

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

The NexMex Thing in Peabody Is Closing, Moving to Lynn

A Mexican restaurant on the North Shore is going to be leaving its current location and will be reopening in another space not all that far away.

According to a Facebook post from the business, The NexMex Thing in Peabody is closing and will move to a new space in Lynn, with the post saying the following:

After 10 incredible years, we have made the difficult decision to close our doors in Peabody....This decision was not made lightly. The prolonged road work in the area, ongoing for the past two years and expected to continue for 2-3 more years, has significantly impacted accessibility to our restaurant. The resulting detours and street closures ultimately forced us to discontinue lunch service and made it increasingly difficult to operate sustainably. While this chapter is coming to a close, our connection to Peabody remains strong. We will be actively looking for opportunities to return to the city in the near future. Until then, we will relocate Nexmex to 125 Lynnfield Street in Lynn early June. Our last day in Peabody will be April 30th, 2026.

The post also refers diners to their other dining spot (Pots, a hotpot restaurant at 77 Main Steet in Peabody).

The current address for The NexMex Thing is 5 Central Street, Peabody, MA, 01960. Its website can be found at https://nexmexthing.com/

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

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

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

Wednesday, April 22, 2026

Cape Cod Coffee Plans to Open in Framingham

A group of coffee shops on the Cape will apparently be expanding to a space in the Greater Boston area.

According to a Bluesky post, Cape Cod Coffee is planning to open in Framingham, with an article from Framingham District 2 stating (via a Facebook post from Brett Peruzzi) that it will apparently be moving into a space within the Fox Howe mixed-use apartment building on Water Street in Nobscot Village. The article mentions that if all goes well, the new shop could be opening sometime around August.

Cape Cod Coffee can currently be found in Mashpee, Wareham, and Chatham.

It looks like the address for the upcoming Cape Cod Coffee in Framingham is 770 Water Street, Framingham, MA, 01701. The website for all locations can be found at https://capecodcoffee.com/

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

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

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

Blackbird Doughnuts, Sally's Sandwiches to Open in East Boston

The team behind a handful of gourmet doughnut shops and sandwich shops in the Boston area will be bringing the two concepts to a waterfront location.

According to a Facebook reel from Gallows Group founder Rebecca Roth Gullo, Blackbird Doughnuts and Sally's Sandwiches will be opening in East Boston, moving into a space at Clippership Wharf. In the reel, Rebecca mentions that there will also be a "little sprinkling of The Gallows," which was a gastropub that resided in Boston's South End until closing in 2021, and that the business plans to open sometime in the late spring or early summer.

Locations of Blackbird Doughnuts can be found in Boston's South End, Beacon Hill, Fenway, Brighton, Cambridge's Harvard Square, Newton Centre, and Watertown, while Sally's Sandwiches can be found in the South End, Harvard Square, and Brighton. The website for all locations can be found at https://www.blackbirddoughnuts.com/

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

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

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

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

99 Restaurant in Charlestown May Close, Be Replaced by Apartments

A longtime location of a local group of restaurants could become the site of residential development.

According to an article from Universal Hub, the 99 Restaurant in Charlestown may be closing at some point, as the Boston Planning Department board has approved of plans to build 240 apartments at the Austin Street site. The article mentions that the six-story structure could be built by 2028, though it is not yet known when the restaurant might have to close.

The Charlestown location of the 99 Restaurant was the site of a notorious shooting back in 1995 that left four people dead and which UH says was "one of the last major spasms of mob violence in Boston."

The address for the 99 Restaurant in Charlestown is 31 Austin Street, Charlestown, MA, 02129. The website for the chain (which is headquartered in Woburn) is at https://www.99restaurants.com/

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

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

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

The Halal Guys Opens in Newton

Last summer, it was reported that a growing chain of halal spots with roots in New York City would be opening a new location in the western suburbs of Boston, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to a press release, The Halal Guys is now open in Newton, moving into a space on Needham Street just south of where it meets Dedham Street and Winchester Street and a short distance south of Route 9. The new location offers some new menu items including a lamb and beef gyro, waffle fries, and a berry mint refresher, and it joins others locally in downtown Boston, the Theater District, the Fenway, South Bay, Cambridge's Porter Square, Dedham, and further out, in Shrewsbury.

The Halal Guys first started out in 1990 as a food cart in Manhattan.

The address for the new location of The Halal Guys in Newton is 55 Needham Street, Newton, MA, 02461. The website for the chain can be found at https://thehalalguys.com/

[Earlier Article]
The Halal Guys Plans to Open New Location in Newton

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

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

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

Monday, April 20, 2026

Restaurant News for the Week Ending April 19, 2026

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between April 13, 2026, and April 19, 2026.

Clarke's at Faneuil Hall in Boston Is Closing
A bar in the heart of downtown Boston that has been around for more than 50 years will soon be shutting down permanently.
Full Story

Tree House Brewing Is Looking to Open at Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston
It looks like one of the best-known breweries in New England could be coming to downtown Boston, though plans are in their early stages.
Full Story

Avra Estiatorio Opens at Lyrik Back Bay in Boston
An upscale Greek and Mediterranean restaurant that got its start in New York City and now has a handful of locations around the country has come to a new development.
Full Story

Rosa Y Marigold Opens at Lyrik Back Bay in Boston
A restaurant with a connection to a couple of other local dining spots has come to a new mixed-use project.
Full Story

Amar in the Back Bay Is Closing
A high-end restaurant in Boston that was first opened by an acclaimed chef a few years ago is going to be closing.
Full Story

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

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

Friday, April 17, 2026

Clarke's at Faneuil Hall in Boston Is Closing

A bar in the heart of downtown Boston that has been around for more than 50 years will soon be shutting down permanently.

According to an article in The Boston Globe, Clarke's at Faneuil Hall is getting ready to close its doors, with the article indicating that management informed employees that its last day in operation will be sometime next week. The Merchants Row pub first opened its doors back in 1975, being particularly popular with the after-work crowd and tourists alike while also being a place for work and holiday parties, and also being one of the last of the old-school drinking spots in and around Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall.

The address for Clarke's is 21 Merchants Row, Boston, MA, 02109.

[April 29 update: The Boston Globe states that Clarke's is now 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]

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

Tree House Brewing Is Looking to Open at Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston

It looks like one of the best-known breweries in New England could be coming to downtown Boston, though plans are in their early stages.

According to an article in the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Tree House Brewing Company has filed a proposal to open in the former Mija Cantina & Tequila Bar/Cheers Replica Bar at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, with the plans being to operate a brewery and distillery that would also include an outdoor beer garden. These plans are in their very early stages, as Tree House has only applied for a Farmer-Brewery license with the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission as of this writing and it has not yet met with the Boston Licensing Board.

In 2024, Tree House Brewing Company had looked at opening a taproom, distillery, and tasting room at the Prudential Center in the Back Bay, but those plans never came to be, though they do have a kiosk at the Pru site where they sell cans and merchandise while also having a seasonal beer garden; the company currently has locations in Charlton, Sandwich, Deerfield, and Tewksbury along with a farm in Woodstock, CT, and a taproom in Saratoga Springs, NY, with its website being at https://treehousebrew.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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A South East Kitchen Opens in Framingham

A brand new Asian restaurant has debuted west of Boston.

According to Kiat Cormier who posted on the ChewOnThis Facebook group page, A South East Kitchen has debuted in Framingham and is currently going through a soft opening. An opening menu for the dining spot shows a focus on Thai fare, including such items as spring rolls, chicken satay, Thai eggplant, golden shrimp, massaman curry, basil fried rice, drunken noodle, pad see ew, pad thai, green curry noodle, and gai ka pow, along with Thai iced tea and Thai iced coffee.

The address for A South East Kitchen is 855 Worcester Road (Route 9) Suite 1C, Framingham, MA, 01701. Its Facebook page can be found at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584544907322

(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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Kri Kri Grill to Open in Chelmsford

A veteran chef who has been involved with a number of restaurants in the Greater Boston area and beyond will be opening his very own dining spot north of the city.

According to an article in The Boston Globe, Brendan Pelley will be opening Kri Kri Grill in Chelmsford, moving into the space within a shopping center on Boston Road that had previously been home to Pita. The upcoming eatery will focus on Greek fare, with the menu including such options as sourdough pita bread, hand-carved meats, spanakopita, moussaka, pastitsio, grilled dolmas, house-made ice cream, and more.

Brendan Pelley has been involved with such well-known restaurants as Krasi, Greco, Bar Vlaha, Kaia, Gibbet Hill Grill, and Doretta Taverna.

The address for the upcoming Kri Kri Grill is 18 Boston Road, Chelmsford, MA, 01824. Its Instagram page can be found at https://www.instagram.com/krikrigrill/

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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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Avra Estiatorio Opens at Lyrik Back Bay in Boston

An upscale Greek and Mediterranean restaurant that got its start in New York City and now has a handful of locations around the country has come to a new development in Boston.

According to multiple sources, Avra Estiatorio is now open at Lyrik Back Bay, a mixed-use space above the Mass. Pike where Newbury Street and Massachusetts Avenue meet. The new dining spot focuses in part on Greek seafood dishes, with a few options including fish soup, littleneck clams, calamari, salmon tartare, grilled octopus, sardines, sea bass souvlaki, lobster pasta, and pan-seared scallops, while also offering a variety of cocktails.

The first location of Avra Estiatorio debuted in Midtown East back in 2000.

The address for Avra Estiatorio in the Back Bay is 400 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02115. Its web page is at https://theavragroup.com/avra-boston

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

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Thursday, April 16, 2026

Happii Bellii to Open in the Former Brockton Beer Company Space

A pop-up dining spot known for its Vietnamese fare is opening a brick-and-mortar location which will apparently have a different concept, and it will be moving into the space where a beermaker had been.

According to an article in The Enterprise, Happii Bellii is planning to open in Brockton, taking over the old Brockton Beer Company space on Main Street in the city's downtown area. The article mentions that the upcoming eatery--which was located within Devito's Pizzeria in Taunton in 2024--may not be focusing on Vietnamese cuisine, with a spokesperson for the place saying that it will be "eclectic" and "its own concept" while also saying that "It's not an Asian theme at all."

The address for the upcoming Happii Bellii is 121 Main Street, Brockton, MA, 02301.

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Jose's Torta Mexicana in Arlington to Become Full-Service Restaurant and Bar

A Mexican spot in the northwest suburbs of Boston whose focus was initially on takeout will soon be focusing on sit-down service complete with alcoholic beverages and outdoor dining.

According to a message sent to us from Leah Klein of City Living Boston, changes are coming to Jose's Torta Mexicana in Arlington, with a Facebook post from the Mass. Ave. eatery saying the following:

We've come a long way… Since opening in 2018 as a takeout spot, Jose's Torta Mexicana has been growing with one goal in mind: bringing you the full experience. And now… it's finally here ... Introducing our FULL-SERVICE RESTAURANT & BAR. Front Patio officially opens May 1st. Join us and enjoy: Authentic Mexican food Handcrafted Margaritas Mexican beers & cocktails Outdoor dining with friends & family

The address for Jose's Torta Mexicana is 793 Massachusetts Avenue, Arlington, MA, 02476. Its website can be found at https://josestorta.com/

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Kero + Homemade Bites Brazilian Cafe Plans to Open in Somerville

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

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Kero + Homemade Bites Brazilian Cafe is planning to open on Medford Street, moving into a space on the southern edge of the city's Winter Hill area. An article from What Now Boston mentions that the upcoming eatery will offer such options as pães de queijo (Brazilian cheese bread), coxinhas (teardrop-shaped chicken croquettes), sandwiches, and Brazilian coffee, though the article also incorrectly mentions that it is going into the Bocelli's space in South Medford (Bocelli's remains open on Main Street in that neighborhood).

The address for the upcoming Kero + Homemade Bites Brazilian Cafe is 374A Medford Street, Somerville, MA, 02145.

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Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Mister Q. Cafe in Charlestown Is Expanding, Opening a New Location in Cambridge

A cafe in Charlestown is going to be expanding to a second location, and this one will be in Cambridge.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Mister Q. Cafe is planning to open on Western Avenue and it currently has a "coming soon" sign out front, with What Now Boston mentioning that it might have both indoor and outdoor seating. Based on the Main Street location in Charlestown, the new Cambridge location could have breakfast items, baked goods, pastries, soups, salads, and sandwiches. No opening date has been given as of yet, so stay tuned for updates as they come in.

The address for the upcoming location of Mister Q. Cafe in Charlestown is 150 Western Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139. The website for the Charlestown location is at https://www.charlestownqcafe.com/

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Rosa Y Marigold Opens at Lyrik Back Bay in Boston

Early last year, it was reported that a restaurant with a connection to a couple of other local dining spots would be coming to a new mixed-use project in Boston, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to a source (and confirmed by the restaurant's website), Rosa Y Marigold officially opens today at Lyrik Back Bay, a development that is located above the Mass Pike by Newbury Street and Massachusetts Avenue. As mentioned in an earlier article here, the team that operates Celeste in Somerville and La Royal in Cambridge is behind the new place which features Peruvian cuisine and is open for lunch, dinner, and a weekend brunch while also featuring live music.

The address for is Rosa Y Marigold is 400 Newbury Street, Boston, MA, 02115. Its website can be found at https://www.rosaymarigold.com/

[Earlier Article]
Rosa Y Marigold Plans to Open in Boston's Back Bay

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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, April 14, 2026

La Tavernetta Opens in East Boston

Last fall, it was reported that an award-winning local chef was bringing a new concept to the East Boston waterfront, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to an article from Boston Magazine, La Tavernetta is now open at Clippership Wharf, and as mentioned in an earlier article, Douglass Williams is the co-owner along with Seth Gerber, both of whom are behind MIDA in East Boston, the South End, the Fenway, and Newtonville. Like MIDA, La Tavernetta focuses on Italian fare, though it is considered an Italian tavern that Williams says has "a slightly more letting-your-hair-down atmosphere" than MIDA. Some items on the menu include fried olives, oysters on the half shell, a porchetta reuben, frutti di mare, grilled whole bronzino, stromboli, and ricotta pie while beer, wine, and cocktails are also available.

The address for La Tavernetta is 45 Lewis Street, East Boston, MA, 02128. Its website can be found at https://www.latavernettaeastie.com/

[Earlier Article]
La Tavernetta by Mida Plans to Open in East Boston

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

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Bambola and The Girl Next Door Open in Boston's Seaport District

Last spring, it was reported that a couple of dining and drinking spots from a local restaurant group would be coming to the Boston waterfront, and now we have learned that they are both up and running.

According to a source along with an article in The Boston Globe, Bambola and The Girl Next Door are now open in the city's Seaport District, moving into the space on Northern Avenue where Seaport Social had been. As mentioned in an earlier article here, Bambola is an upscale Italian restaurant while the The Girl Next Door is a more casual neighborhood spot with Italian comfort food and cocktails. Both places are part of the Sneaky Good Hospitality Group, which includes Flamingo in the North End, Rock & Rye in the Theatre District, Pinky's in the Back Bay, and Blondie's in Brighton.

The address for Bambola and The Girl Next Door is 225 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA, 02210. The website for Sneaky Good Hospitality Group is at https://www.sneakygoodhospitality.com/

[Earlier Article]
Bambola and The Girl Next Door Plan to Open in Boston's Seaport District

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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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Amar in Boston's Back Bay Is Closing

A high-end restaurant in Boston that was first opened by an acclaimed chef a few years ago is going to be closing.

According to an article from The Boston Globe, Amar in the Back Bay is shutting down on April 26, with the space (which is on the 17th floor of the Raffles Boston hotel on Trinity Place) being turned into a private event space. As mentioned in an earlier article here, George Mendes, who was opening chef at the now-closed Aldea (a Michelin-starred Manhattan restaurant), is now based in Boston and he will be opening a couple of new spots this year in the South End--Agosto (a restaurant on Washington Street in the South End with a chef's counter and a tasting menu) and Baby Sister (a bakery-cafe that will be next door).

Amar, which first opened its doors back in 2023, has been known for its Portuguese and Mediterranean fare; its web page can be found at https://www.raffles.com/boston/dining/amar/

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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, April 13, 2026

Winch & Pulley Brewing Company Opens in Framingham

Last fall, it was reported that a new taproom would be opening in the local area, and now we have learned that it is up and running.

According to an article from The MetroWest Daily News, Winch & Pulley is now open in Framingham, and as mentioned in an earlier article here, it has taken over the space on Morton Street where Exhibit 'A' Brewing Company had been before moving to Williamsburg in 2024, and before that, Jack's Abby until it moved to its current home on Clinton Street. The brewery offers several beers on tap while also offering cider and seltzer, and it looks like a beer garden will also be coming at some point as well.

The address for Winch & Pulley is 81 Morton Street, Framingham, MA, 01702. Its website can be found at https://winchandpulley.co/

[Earlier Article]
Winch & Pulley Brewing Company Plans to Open a Taproom and Beer Garden in Framingham

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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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Sushi Sang Lee in Gloucester Is Closing

An edomae-style omakase sushi bar on the North Shore that has a Food Network winner behind it is shutting down, though plans appear to be in the works for a new concept from the owner.

According to a source, Sushi Sang Lee is saying goodbye to its space in Gloucester, with an Instagram post from the Prospect Street spot saying the following:

After five wonderful years, Sushi Sang Lee is officially moving on from our current location, but this goodbye is only the beginning of a brand new journey that we're excited to bring to you....We pride ourselves in bringing you the best experience we can, and we're so excited to welcome you into this brand new beginning. With our new location, we plan on serving you an updated concept with the addition of an amazing a la carte menu. Stay tuned for updates of our grand reopening and new concept.

The last day of service at Sushi Sang Lee is May 24.

Sushi Sang Lee owner Sang Hyun Lee was crowned champion on the Food Network's Chopped: Sushi Showdown in 2025.

The address for Sushi Sang Lee is 76 Prospect Street, Gloucester, MA, 01930. Its website can be found at https://www.sushisanglee.com/

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Restaurant News for the Week Ending April 12, 2026

Below are some of the biggest restaurant and food-related news stories that have been posted between April 6, 2026, and April 12, 2026.

Mondo to Open in the South End
A new wine bar is on its way to Boston.
Full Story

Bar 23 and Le Boulevard to Open in the Seaport District
A local restaurant group will be opening a couple of new dining spots on the Boston waterfront.
Full Story

Conrad's to Open in Canton
A local group of restaurants known in part for their steak tips will be opening another new location.
Full Story

The Peach Cobbler Factory to Expand to New England, Opening a Location in Downtown Boston
A chain of dessert shops with roots down south will be expanding to the region, opening a location in the heart of Boston.
Full Story

Villa Mexico in Downtown Boston Is Going to Remain Open
A Mexican restaurant that was facing a possible closure will continue in operation.
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, April 10, 2026

Crossroads Cafe in Acton Is Closing

A longtime restaurant and bar northwest of Boston is getting ready to shut down.

According to a source, Crossroads Cafe in Acton is closing after being in business for more than 30 years, with a Facebook post from the Nagog Park spot saying, "The rumors are true, Crossroads official last day of business will be April 18....It was a good run." The dining and drinking spot has been known in part for it classic American fare, pub food, and Italian and Mexican dishes, with its menu including such options as calamari, burgers, wings, steaks, baked scallops, linguine in clam sauce, ribs, liver and onions, fish tacos, and chicken parmigiana.

The address for Crossroads Cafe is 405 Nagog Park, Acton, MA, 01720. Its website can be found at https://crossroadscafeacton.com/

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

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Mondo to Open in Boston's South End

A new wine bar is on its way to Boston.

According to a poster within the South End Community Board Facebook group page, Mondo is planning to open in the South End, with an article from Swurl indicating that Spenser Payne of Neighborhood Wines, and Travis Robitaille of Petula's are behind the place. The article mentions that dining and drinking spot will offer a New England-inspired food menu with French, Italian, and Spanish influences and that the space will include a patio, while Payne says when it comes to wine options, "The point is to appeal to everybody....From wild and unconventional to really classic."

No opening date for Mondo has been given as of yet, nor has an address been given, so stay tuned for updates as they come in. [Ed note: Drew Starr mentions on Bluesky that the address will be 563 Columbus Avenue in the former Render Coffee space.]

The Instagram page for Mondo can be found at https://www.instagram.com/mondoboston/

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Ralph's Coffee to Open in Boston's Seaport District

A new coffee shop is on its way to the Boston waterfront, and it has a connection to a well-known luxury designer.

According to an article from Caught in Southie, Ralph's Coffee is planning to open in the city's Seaport District, with the shop moving into a space by Seaport Boulevard and Pier 4 Boulevard. Ralph Lauren is behind the concept which will likely offer such options as cold brew, espresso, tea, pastries, and baked goods.

Ralph's Coffee dates back to 2014 with the opening of a shop in Manhattan; its web page can be found at https://www.ralphlauren.com/ralphs-coffee-locations-feat

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Thursday, April 09, 2026

Yakiniku Plans to Open in Waltham

It looks like a new Asian restaurant will be opening in the western suburbs of Boston.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Yakiniku is looking to open in Waltham, moving into a space on Main Street just east of Prospect Street. A Waltham Times article says that the dining spot will focus on Korean BBQ, with burners in the tables for diners to cook all-you-can-eat meat, and the restaurant will offer ramen and sushi as well. If all goes well, Yakiniku could be opening sometime in May.

The address for the proposed Yakiniku is 863-867 Main Street, Waltham, MA, 02451.

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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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Baby Cafe Kitchen in Allston Has Closed

The sole Boston-area location of a California-based group of Hong Kong-style restaurants has shut down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Baby Cafe Kitchen in Allston is no longer in operation, with a check on the website for the business seeming to confirm this, as the Brighton Avenue outlet has been removed from the locations section. The eatery offered such options as Hainan chicken rice, beef stew, wings, salt and pepper squid, pork and egg stone porridge, and seafood udon.

Baby Cafe, which also had a location in Brookline that closed last year and which started out in Oakland, now appears to have only one location left (in Union City, CA).

The address for the now-closed Baby Cafe in Allston was 128 Brighton Avenue, Allston, MA, 02134. The website for the business is at https://www.babycaferestaurants.com/

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Wednesday, April 08, 2026

Bar 23 and Le Boulevard to Open in Boston's Seaport District

A local restaurant group will be opening a couple of new dining spots on the Boston waterfront.

According to an article in The Boston Globe, Bar 23 and Le Boulevard are both planning to open in the city's Seaport District, with Himmel Hospitality Group (Grill 23, Bistro du Midi, Harvest, The Banks) being behind the two places. The article mentions that Bar 23 will be a "spinoff" of Grill 23 with seating for 75 and a focus on steaks, while Le Boulevard will be a Parisian-inspired bistro with seating for 250 including a large patio. If all goes as planned, Bar 23 and Le Boulevard will open in 2027.

The addresses for the two upcoming spots from Himmel Hospitality Group are 11 Fan Pier Boulevard for Bar 23 and 10 Fan Pier Boulevard for Le Boulevard.

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Ray Adea's Mediterranean & Jamaican Cuisine in Salem Has Closed

A dining spot on the North Shore that offered fusion fare has shut down.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page (via a Salem Food Digest post), Ray Adea's Mediterranean & Jamaican Cuisine in Salem is no longer in business, with a "for lease" sign in the window of the Lafayette Street space. The eatery was known in part for its vegetarian and vegan Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare including falafel, hummus, and babaganoush, while also offering meat-based Jamaican dishes such as jerk chicken, curry goat, oxtail, and steamed fish.

The address for the now-closed Adea's Mediterranean & Jamaican Cuisine was 90 Lafayette Street (Unit 1B), Salem, MA, 01970.

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Calisto's Has Replaced Boston Pocket and Deli in the South End

A brand new sandwich shop has debuted in the South End of Boston.

According to a Facebook post from the place within the South End Community Board group page, Calisto's is now open on Tremont Street, with the owners taking over the former Boston Pocket and Deli space. The post gives more info on the new spot, including the following:

Calisto's is a European-inspired sandwich shop combining classic deli tradition with modern creativity....A little about us: Pat grew up in an Italian household and has dreamed of running his own food business for as long as he can remember (he went and got a degree in entrepreneurship to back it up). Nick has always had a passion for design, aesthetics, and the arts. When we saw an opportunity to take over a struggling deli and pour everything we had into it, we jumped. We're combining those two worlds — great food and a space that feels intentional and inviting — to create something we think the South End deserves.

The menu for Calisto's includes breakfast sandwiches and hot and cold lunch sandwiches.

The address for Calisto's is 682A Tremont Street, Boston, MA, 02118. Its website can be found at https://www.calistosdeli.com/

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Lola's Coffee and More in West Medford Has Closed

A coffee shop in West Medford has shut down after being in business for three years.

According to a poster within the Friends of Boston's Hidden Restaurants Facebook group page, Lola's Coffee and More on Playstead Road is no longer in business, with a Facebook post from the shop saying the following:

Owing to certain challenges with Len's Coffee and changes in my employment situation, we opted for retirement and made preparations for new owners to take over both businesses. Regrettably, after completing the necessary paperwork, the individual set to assume control of Lola's Coffee and More informed us that they would not be proceeding, forcing our hand and leading to this sudden closure.

Lola's first opened in the spring of 2023, moving into the space that had been home to Nourish Your Soul (a location of that business remains in operation in Winchester).

The address for the now-closed Lola's Coffee and More in West Medford was 17 Playstead Road, West Medford, MA, 02155.

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