Before you click away, hear me out. I’m not totally wacko, I promise! (And if I am a wacko, I’m a wacko who saves hundreds of dollars on each vacation we take.)

If you like eating out on vacation, this article is still for you. I’m not suggesting you entirely cut out restaurants on vacation. Instead, I invite you to consider how you can make my tips to prepare food on vacation work for you.

I also outline just how much money you can expect to save with some of the budget travel strategies below.

And I’m betting you haven’t tried at least some of these strategies—so definitely read to the end!

Curious? If you’re into budget travel, keep reading to learn how I save hundreds of dollars on every vacation.

And don’t forget to pin this post so you remember these tips later!

This post contains affiliate links. That means when you click and buy, I earn a small income at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting To & Fro Fam!

Quick cold foods

If you have young kids, I’m betting that you are plenty familiar with “cold meals”—you know, when you don’t actually cook anything but everyone’s fed just the same.

These cold meals are money for budget-friendly tactics like prepping food on vacation. You can prepare so many meals with an absolute minimum of work, supplies or clean-up.

Think of what quick, no-cooking-required foods your family relies on at home. Some ideas to jump-start your brainstorm:

• Sandwiches
• Cereal
• Yogurt and fruit
• Salad
• What else? Let me know your cold meal ideas in the comments at the end of the post.

Grocery store hot and cold bars

I’ve written before about how grocery stores are the best place to “eat out” on vacation, especially if you have selective eaters or food intolerances in the family. Rely on their hot and cold bars for a quick meal that requires no work on your part but still saves money!

Not every grocery store has a stellar selection in its hot and cold bars. More high-end shops like Whole Foods have more options beyond jojos and macaroni salad. Consider adding these ready-made foods to your cart:

• Pasta salad
• DIY a delicious custom salad
• Sushi
• Pre-made sandwiches and wraps
• Quinoa salad and other grain salads

I typically have the girls pick a few foods from the salad bar. That way, I can grab a few baby tomatoes, some sliced cucumber and a few hard-boiled eggs—without buying a whole package of each. It also helps me include some healthy options on the kids’ plates.

If you haven’t tried this strategy to save money on food on vacation, give it a (delicious) try!

Freezer meals FTW

For me, 2020 has been the Year of Freezer Meals. I’ve fully embraced the fact that a pre-made meal from the freezer aisle helps keep me fed without stress. I’ve chosen to not hold myself to a ridiculous standard of cooking every meal from scratch—and the same goes for vacations.

That’s why we sometimes microwave freezer meals to save money on a budget vacation. I typically buy Amy’s or another brand with gluten-free and dairy-free options.

(I also heat the meals on an actual plate rather than the plastic packaging. It looks so much nicer and alleviates the worry of microwaving plastic.)

If you’re stressed about the sodium levels of freezer meals, remind yourself that you’re not eating them every day for the rest of your life. A few freezer meals on vacation isn’t going to permanently overwhelm your system with salt.

Another bonus: Everyone can choose what they want! So Max and Edie might pick macaroni and cheese (I’m sure you’re shocked), Hubs might opt for stir fry and I get veggie enchiladas.

Snack board meals

Charcuterie board, anyone? Snack plates aren’t only for parties or fancy gatherings; put one together and call it dinner. (No, call it super-easy, budget-friendly, stress-free dinner!)

Get some cold-cuts, slice some cheese, arrange crackers, cut up some veggies—and declare dinner done. Kids tend to love DIYing their food, so encourage them to make tiny cracker sandwiches.

Want to go the extra mile? Add some olives, cornichons, grapes, apple slices or dip like hummus. Even with these final touches, you’ll still save tons of money on food.

Pack meals for when you’re on the go

When my family travels, we rarely eat out. That’s partly because we want to save money and partly because Maxine eats like 10 foods. Whatever the reason, though, we make it happen by packing food to eat throughout the day.

That means a little planning and prep on the front end, but it actually saves time and effort throughout the day. That’s because you don’t have to figure out where to eat, travel to a restaurant you choose, wait in line, or wait for your food to arrive.

Instead, when you pack lunch and snacks for on-the-go-eating, you have ready-made meals. This money-saving strategy really helps when you have a kid on the edge of a hanger meltdown!

Whenever we can, we eat these meals as a picnic in a pretty spot. That way lunch doubles as a sightseeing activity. Plus, Max and Edie can run off and play while Hubs and I finish our meals!

Don’t underestimate the power of a microwave

For the first year or so of Edie’s life, we didn’t have a microwave. Then we bought one and I was seriously floored by how much easier it made everything.

You may be rolling your eyes at me (duh, microwaves are life-savers for parents of young children, you might be thinking). So consider how helpful they can be on a budget vacation!

Yes, you can warm up freezer meals (which I wrote about above). Their use goes beyond freezer meals, though.

Reheat leftovers (including takeout or restaurant meals you didn’t finish). Warm up foods your kids eat a ton of at home. (In my family, this is dino nuggets: Edie eats them almost nightly, including on vacation.) “Boil” water for foods like instant oatmeal. Warm up soup.

The microwave is your best friend for preparing foods in your hotel room—and saving money while you’re at it.

Cook in your hotel room—seriously!

This tip might make you think I’ve crossed the line from budget-savvy to downright loopy. But hear me out!

With a tiny bit of prep and extra supplies, you can cook a legit meal, even in a hotel room.

Part of how I saved more than $2,000 on a Disneyland vacation was preparing about 95% of our own meals. We had road tripped from Oregon to Southern California and had brought a small electric griddle (totally easy to pack). So one morning I made eggs and pancakes for my family of four plus my in-laws. I fed all six of us for about $5 total. Compare that to what we probably would have spent at a restaurant—an estimated $60—and the slight amount of hassle is well justified in my mind.

Tips to save money on food on vacation

If you want to save money on food on vacation, prepping some meals in your lodging is the best way to do just that. Follow these tips to make this money-saving strategy work.

• Avoid strong-smelling foods. If you’re staying in a hotel, keep in mind that people in other rooms will be able to smell certain meals. Avoid these delicious but strong-smelling foods, such as curry or fish.
• Take care of your trash. You may want to empty your own trash cans more regularly, so scope out a common trash bin near your room.
• Leave an extra tip. Preparing food in your room may cause a little extra mess. If that’s the case, don’t forget to leave housekeeping an extra tip.
• Check room specifications. Before you book a hotel room, or even a home rental, notice the accommodations it includes. Does the room have a mini fridge? A microwave? Even a kitchenette? Take this into account when you book your lodging. Factor in the money you’ll save by preparing food on vacation when comparing prices of hotel rooms.
• Don’t let perfect be the enemy of the good. To save money on vacation, you don’t have to eat in for every meal. Strike a balance between eating in restaurants, getting takeout and preparing food in your hotel. Do what works for you and your family for a budget vacation that’s still fun and relaxing.

Bring these budget travel meal prep supplies

Life will be much easier if you bring these supplies for preparing food on vacation. Add them to your packing list!

Here’s what to bring to prepare food in your hotel room:

• Sponge and dish soap. You’ll want to wash up after making and eating your meals. It’s a lot easier to do the dishes if you don’t have to rely on a washcloth and bar soap!
• Tupperware or storage containers. Bring reusable containers to store leftovers and food to go. I usually pack a few empties in addition to the containers that store food I bring with us.

Pro tip: Use square or rectangular food storage containers. They pack more easily and are more efficient with space.

• Ziplocks or reusable bags. I’m obsessed with these reusable silicone “bags,” which nest inside each other—making for more compact packing. Use them for leftovers, ingredients and foods you bring on the day’s adventures. Alternatively, bring different sizes of zippered plastic bags.
• A knife. Bring a sharp knife; we typically bring a small paring knife like this one. It’s compact and gets the job done. (Make sure to pack it with its sheath.) I use it to cut everything from apples to cucumbers to sandwiches. (Will the kids ever eat a sandwich with the crust on? Time will tell.)
• Plates, bowls and utensils. We do our best to avoid single-use items like disposable plates and forks. So I bring sturdy plastic plates and bowls for each of us in addition to silverware. (In fact, we carry a set of silverware and cloth napkins in the glove compartment at all times we use when eating takeout on the road.)
• Disposable plates and utensils. If you can’t get around the idea of washing dishes in a hotel bathroom sink, pack disposable cutlery and plates. This option still generates less waste than takeout (with its non-recyclable clamshell containers and plastic to-go bags). Look for plates made from recycled materials or biodegradable cutlery.
• Seasonings. We definitely don’t make anything gourmet on the road. But having a small assortment of seasonings and spices helps! At the least, you may want salt and pepper. I also bring cinnamon (for oatmeal) and nutritional yeast (for pretty much everything!). I love these travel-friendly spices kits, which include a variety of seasonings in one easy-to-pack container.
• Cutting board. A compact cutting board will make preparing meals on vacation so much easier! Plus, you can use it for that snack board dinner.

Budget travel doesn’t have to be hard. And you don’t need to feel like you’re depriving yourself on vacation just by preparing some of your own meals instead of eating out.

Pick and choose which of these strategies works for you. Then apply one (or all!) of these tips to save money on your next family vacation!

The post 7 ideas to save money on food on vacation: How I save hundreds of dollars appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Luckily for you and me, my blogger community delivered. They shared the best Boston restaurants for budgets as well as deep pockets. They shared what to eat in Boston from breakfast through post-dinner dessert. And you have it all here: a guide of the best restaurants in Boston, complete with drool-worthy photos!

So if you’re planning Boston travel, make sure to pin, save or bookmark this post. When you’re hungry, you’ll be so glad you already know where to eat in Boston.

The best restaurants in Boston

When you’re traveling, you work up a hearty appetite. You want good food. You also don’t want to waste time wandering (on the street or across internet review sites).

So whether you’re ready to eat now or you’re planning your next Boston vacation, you’re going to love these restaurant recommendations.

Without further ado, please feast your eyes on the best restaurants in Boston, picked by a whole bunch of food-loving travel bloggers!

Best breakfast in Boston

Mike & Patty’s

Good for: breakfast sandwiches alllll day long

Within easy walking distance of the Common, but still tucked away on a quiet residential street, you’ll find Mike & Patty’s. It’s a tiny sandwich shop that almost always has a line out the door on the weekends, but don’t let that scare you away. Service here is pretty quick, and the food is incredible. 

Mike & Patty’s is known for its all-day breakfast sandwiches. Everything from the eggs (which are to die for, by the way) to the coffee is locally sourced. They have plenty of vegetarian options, and even recently added an Impossible Burger to the lunch menu!

My favorite menu item, though, is hands down their famous Fancy ($9). The Fancy comes with two fried eggs, bacon, cheese, avocado, red onions, and house mayo on the most perfect multigrain bread. If you’re looking for a grab-and-go, reasonably priced, locally made breakfast/brunch in central Boston, look no further, my friends.

Kaisa is a Colorado-based budget outdoor adventure blogger at Glam Granola Travel, who loves national parks and craft beer.

Tatte Bakery & Café 

Good for: for coffee, all-day breakfast, pastries and lunch

If walking around Boston has gotten you hungry and needing a caffeine fix, Tatte Bakery & Café is the place to go. Luckily there are several locations in the Boston, Cambridge and Brookline areas to serve up the most delicious coffee, pastries and more!

Tatte’s owner Tzurit Oz started her love for baking right in her home selling sweet delights at local farmers markets. She soon realized that she wanted to offer that home away from home feel in her own bakery and café and opened up Tatte’s first location in 2007.

Each Tatte Bakery & Café has its own unique personality welcoming you in to cool off on a hot day of exploring or a cozy place to escape the cold. You can taste her passion for baking and the high-quality ingredients in each bite! On top of having the tastiest pastries, Tatte has an assortment of breakfast dishes, sandwiches, salads and bowls that look mouthwatering. I only wish I had time to try all of them!

Luckily for breakfast lovers, Tatte serves breakfast all day. On Friday, Saturday and Sundays a brunch menu offers more options that will start your day off with plenty of satisfaction. The latte that I sipped might be one of the best I’ve had in ages and will keep me coming back on my next visit to Boston.

Vanessa Shields is a San Diego based adventure travel blogger who has a serious addiction to travel, photography and scuba diving. Follow along on her travels at Traveling Ness.

Best lunch in Restaurants in Boston

Time Out Market

Good for: finding 15 of the city’s best chefs under one roof

On June 27, 2019, the long-awaited Time Out Market opened in Fenway’s historic Landmark Center, originally built in 1929 as a Sears, Roebuck and Company warehouse and distribution center. The warehouse was closed in 1988, and the building sat vacant for years before it was converted to an office-and-retail complex in 2000. The Market now occupies a 25,000-square-foot space that was vacated by Best Buy in 2014. 

The variety of vendors can make it difficult to decide what to eat, but you really can’t go wrong with whatever you choose. The food options run the gamut from vegan tacos at MC Kitchen to juicy grass-fed beef patties at Craigie Burger, so there is truly something for everyone. The two bars located at opposite ends of the food hall serve up local beers, wine, signature cocktails and mocktails, and kombucha. In addition to the indoor communal tables, there is an outdoor patio and green space, perfect for enjoying a scoop (or two, or three) of Sicilian Pistachio from Gelato & Chill.

Candice Bryan lives in NYC and blogs about her food and travel adventures at Can With A Plan.

By CHLOE

Good for: vegans and everyone wanting a healthy-plant based lunch in Boston 

A healthy and affordable meal in Boston can easily be found at by CHLOE at one of three Boston locations: Seaport, Fenway and Back Bay. If you didn’t know better you would never guess everything is vegan! By Chloe—which stylizes its name as “by CHLOE,” is 100% vegan, meaning the menu is free of meat, dairy and egg products. Their food also contains no saturated animal fats, cholesterol, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

Even the most picky eaters will find something on the menu, which offers fresh delicious pesto “meatballs” and cashew “mozzarella;” spicy seitan “chorizo” tacos; and creamy macaroni and cashew “cheese” with smoked shiitakes that are surprisingly a great bacon substitute. They even offer dairy-free push-up popsicles and vegan daily-baked sweets. For those in a hurry you will find plenty of options at the Grab and Go section including cold pressed juices. 

For those on a budget the combo meal is the way to go.  For just $13.95 you get your choice of burger, fries and a drink. For just $1.50 you can add or cookie or soup for $2.50. In downtown Boston this is a bargain! If you want to try something different than what you can find everywhere else then add by CHLOE to the list. I highly recommend the guacamole burger and fries dipped in yummy beet ketchup. 

Melissa Nance is cancer survivor and blogger. Together with her husband, they are trying to see as much of the world as they can on a budget traveling in an RV and abroad. Follow along at Penny Pinching Globetrotter. 

Boston Burger Company

Good for: burgers with attitude and frappes that will blow your mind

This Boston Burger Company menu tempts with burger creations Green Monstah (think guacamole) or Kitchen Sink (think fried egg and everything else). 

Don’t forget to order dessert! The #freakfrappe offerings are equally hard to resist. Each extra-large shake is an artistic masterpiece. The Churro-ly We Can Taco About It caramel shake is chocked full of churros, choco tacos, and cinnamon toast crunch. The Red, White, and Boom shortbread frappe is riddled with berry candies, blueberry cheesecake, Swedish Fish, and rock candy.  Even the seemingly typical Oreo Frappe is nothing but typical with an Oreo garnish and crushed Oreo rim. 

I enjoyed the patio seating on Bolyston Street near Fenway Park, but it was to the delight of the passerby who couldn’t help but gaze at the incredible sight set in front of me. Best enjoyed by two and on an empty stomach!

Alicia Rovey is President of the All Fifty Club, a network for people who have or who want to visit all 50 states of the USA.

Bar Boulud

Good for: dog-friendly dining

Louie Vuitton, the French Bulldog, has dined all over the world but one of his favorite restaurants is right here in Massachusetts. Bar Boulud is the Boston outpost of celebrity chef Daniel Boulud, and this Boston restaurant has a prime location on the ground floor of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel.

Dogs are allowed to dine with their humans on the seasonal terrace along Boylston Street. The waitstaff loves canine guests and will be happy to provide a fresh bowl of water for your pup.

Humans can enjoy a wide range of cocktails and wines. Bar Boulud’s menu features a mix of traditional French and local New England cuisine. Louie always begs for a bite of the “Frenchie,” a burger topped with pork belly confit and raclette cheese. You can find sandwiches like the “Frenchie” on the lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus. Bar Boulud also offers breakfast seven days a week. 

Jenna Emmons created Dog Friendly Travel to show people how easy it is to travel with a pet. Her Muse is Louie Vuitton, a 5-year-old French Bulldog. They have visited ten different countries together.

Pho Pasteur

Good for: those chilly Boston days when you’re looking for something a little different than clam chowder 

Ironically situated in Boston’s Chinatown district, this Vietnamese restaurant in Boston is a favorite haunt of those seeking a steaming hot bowl of heaven. While the menu at Pho Pasteur includes several pages of appetizers, salads, and other traditional Vietnamese food items, the quintessential dish you need to order is a large bowl of pho.

Thinly sliced meat, loads of green veggies and thin noodles all swim in a deep vat of rich, brown broth that tastes like it’s been simmering for days. Along with the oversized bowl that can potentially feed a small army, you’re presented with some “extra” toppings: bean sprouts, basil, and lime. Add liberally and top with a few squirts from the ever-present bottle of Sriracha.

The complexity of the pho is thankfully offset by the inexpensive price tag. Don’t be fooled by the simple and out-of-date décor – Pho Pasteur is the perfect place to pop in for scrumptious traditional Vietnamese dishes as a pick-me-up on those bone-chilling Boston days.

Rachelle Gordon is the writer behind Adventure is Never Far Away and constantly strives to push others to have adventures in their everyday lives, no matter where they are. 

Boston Public Library Courtyard Tea Room

The Boston Public Library isn’t the first place you’d think of having a cocktail or indulging in high tea but get prepared for a surprise, actually two. The entrance is one of the most modest in the National Historic Registry site. Follow signs on the main floor just right of the entrance.

A tale of two teas begins as you enter the Map Room. The first room opens into dark splendor punctuated by the glow of Edison bulb fixtures. This is a more casual spot for afternoon tea or tippling than the Courtyard Tea Room.

The Map Room’s vaulted ceiling and walls are lined with bricks and massive maps hang above burnished metal tables. The centerpiece bar features literary-themed cocktails like Tequila Mockingbird, Catcher in the Rye, and the Dorian Gray. Each is inspired by the books or features spirits favored by the authors. The room is open for Afternoon Tea Fri., Sat. 11:30 am–4:45 pm Sun. 1:00 pm–4:45 pm Bar Wed., Thurs. 3:00 pm–9:00 pm. 

You can also follow the light into a more rarefied ambiance just beyond the corner archway. The elegant Courtyard Tea Room overlooks the Italianate courtyard through tall atrium windows. Luxurious afternoon teas are served in a formal setting beneath chandeliers, in a room filled with white, burnished silver, and teal accents.

The delicious tea sandwiches are small works of art and served with a first-course salad or gazpacho (in summer). Tiny sweets fill the second tier of the serving tray with small, round scones on the top accompanied by jars of lemon curd, marmalade. and butter.

It’s more affordable than other high teas in Boston but not a budget experience. Still, make memories here in the busy Back Bay neighborhood, enjoy a special date or girlfriend’s rendezvous over tea.

Open during Library hours: Wed.–Sat. 11:30 am–5:00 pm and Sun. 1:00 pm–5:00 pm Reservations are highly suggested.

Elaine Masters is a boomer blogger/freelance travel writer and videographer on a mindful mission to help gals and their pals go easy, travel well. Follow along at Trip Well Gal.

Dig Inn

Good for: healthy and quick bowls

When I’m traveling, I usually want just a quick lunch—after all, I want to maximize my time for exploring a new place. The same went for my time in Boston, so Dig Inn was the ideal spot for lunch in Boston!

Dig Inn specializes in healthy bowls for vegans, vegetarians and omnivores alike. You can order one of their signature bowls or create your own. Then you choose from a handful of sauces, from pesto to a garlicky aioli.

Whatever you do—and whatever your dietary preferences—do yourself a favor and get both the vegan Cashew Kale Caesar as well as the roasted, crispy cauliflower. I could have eaten a giant bowl of just those two by themselves!

With four locations of local Dig Inn restaurants, it’s easy to eat a healthy lunch in Boston.

Best dinner restaurants in Boston

Union Oyster House

Good for: oysters with a side of history

Union Oyster House on Boston’s Union Street has been serving diners since 1826, making it the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States. Now that’s quite a claim! 

The building housing the Union Oyster House looks remarkably similar to the photos of the location in times past: wood paneling, low ceilings, narrow stairs—and lots of charm. 

The restaurant boasts tons of New England history.  The first newspaper in the United States was published on the upper floors where a future king of France also taught French. Daniel Webster ate there almost daily when he was in town. He is rumored to have downed whiskey and oysters at the circular bar. In more recent times the Kennedy clan patronized this Boston restaurant; in fact, one spot displays a plaque declaring it the “Kennedy Booth.”

As is the case with all the best Boston restaurants, it’s all about the food! The Union Oyster House specializes in seafood with a focus on oysters, as you might guess from its name. You can sit at the circular bar by the entrance, watch staff shuck oysters expertly and down the tasty tidbits with a mug of ice-cold local craft beer. And all at reasonable prices.

The bottom line: When in Boston, check out the Union Oyster House for the history as well as the food. 

Talek Nantes is an author and the founder of the travel blog, Travels with Talek, where she shares travel tips, advice and inspiration to help travelers create their own unique travel experiences. 

The Warren Tavern

Good for: refueling for your Freedom Trail walk

In the Charlestown section of Boston is one of the oldest dining establishments in Massachusetts, the Warren Tavern. Built in 1780, this tavern was visited my many of our founding fathers, including George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Paul Revere. The low ceilings and large wooden beams make it immediately apparent that this is a historic place.

But the Warren Tavern offers more than just history, it also serves some tasty food. Like any self-respecting restaurant in Boston, there is always a selection of fresh and local oysters on the menu along with a highly rated clam chowder. Classic tavern fare includes burgers, wings and shepherd’s pie. Being a bar, there are plenty of good beers and ciders on tap.

While the tavern isn’t technically on the Freedom Trail, many visitors opt to add this stop at some point in order to refuel and experience history through one of our country’s most historic restaurants.

Wendy Lee writes for Empty Nesters Hit The Road, a website dedicated to inspiring couples 50+ to travel more.

Toro

Good for: delicious paella and Spanish tapas

When you need a break from the crowded streets of the North End and Seaport District, head to the South End for some of Boston’s best kept secrets. One of those is Toro, a Spanish tapas restaurant serving Barcelona-inspired hot and cold tapas.

Created by James Beard award-winning chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette, you’re bound to have an incredible meal. The intimate space does not accept reservations for dinner, so be prepared to arrive early and wait for a table. You can also put your name in at the bar for the first available seats. Don’t be deterred by the wait, as Toro is well worth it!

Start with a glass of wine or craft cocktail while perusing the menu. The star of the show is the Paella Valenciana and is an absolute must. Don’t even think about going to Toro and not ordering it! The dish is made for two and you’ll need to allow at least 30 minutes for preparation.

In the meantime, sit back, relax and enjoy a few tapas dishes. If on the menu, order the Brussels Sprouts. I’ve never tasted better sprouts. Seafood lovers will enjoy the garlic shrimp, and you can’t go wrong with marinated olives and Marcona almonds. Overall, this is one of my favorite restaurants in Boston!

Jen is an adventurer at heart, blogging at Fit & Fun Travel. She is passionate about health and fitness and strives to incorporate exercise and clean eating into travel.

Fuji at Inkblot

Good for: seriously decadent sushi

Sushi topped with gold flakes is not what I was expecting when I stepped into Fuji at Inkblot, but there it was, and according to the waiter it was one of the best things on the menu. 

The menu includes a wide array of sushi and hot dishes including a variety of fried rices and my favorite of the night, the soy glazed ribs. Everything that came to our table got top marks. The service was quick and attentive; the diners were subdued and quiet, too. 

Overall it was an excellent meal at a Boston restaurant and one I would revisit the next time I’m in town. If sushi topped with gold is too fancy for what you’re looking for, don’t worry: They have regular, unadorned sushi right on the other side of the menu. 

Fuji at Inkblot is a good choice for a date night, or any occasion when you want a nice dinner restaurant in Boston, and you want to hear your companions.

Roshida Dowe is an expat, avid traveler, and adult gap year coach, blogging at Shida’s on the Loose.  

Scopa 

Good for: delicious Italian pasta and pizza, without the long waits of some of its neighbors.  

Scopa is a great choice for dinner in the center of Boston’s North End, directly across Hannover Street from Mike’s Pastry. We first ended up at Scopa by default when the restaurant we planned to eat at had a 52 person wait at 7 pm on a Saturday night. Scopa had a table available in its 22 seat space, and we were seated immediately. While the convenience got us in the door, the food is why we’ll return.  

Start your meal with fiche gratinati, roasted figs rolled with guanciale and goat cheese, rosemary, honey, and balsamic vinegar. The three-portion serving ($12) is a great way to begin your evening, especially alongside the complimentary bread freshly prepared in the brick pizza oven. 

While the pizzas ($12-15) are nicely prepared in the brick oven as well, the pastas ($20-28) are even better. The portions are not huge but are well-prepared. The mostly Italian wine list is reasonably priced. Like many other North End Boston restaurants, Scopa doesn’t serve dessert; enjoy a coffee or another glass of wine while you keep an eye on the line across the street at Mike’s Pastry.  Then pick up dessert there or down the street at Modern Pastry, depending on your cannoli preferences . . . or try one of each!

Amy M. Gardner and her husband, Keith R. Sbiral, are Chicago-based certified career development and transition coaches who share travel and photography tips through their website, Red Dot Blue Dot.         

Giacomo’s Ristorante

Good for: authentic Italian

Giacomo’s Ristorante is one of the top Italian restaurants in Boston for a good reason. Only open for dinner, the food is delicious and has an authentic feel in an intimate setting. Because Giacomo’s offers such a small dining area, you’ll often see patrons lining up starting around 4-4:30 in order to ensure they are in the first round of seating.

I personally love spicy food, so I recommend any of their pastas with the fra diavolo sauce, but there are several sauce options to choose from. We went with some shrimp over linguine which was excellent; it’s so flavorful and filling for a reasonable price.

If you’re going with a group to this Boston Italian restaurant, I recommend buying a few plates and eating family style to really get a chance to try all the amazing combinations Giacomo’s has to offer. The most famous flagship restaurant is in Boston’s North End, but most people don’t know that there is a second South End restaurant tucked away in Back Bay, with slightly smaller crowds. I recommend stopping in the South End, but you really can’t go wrong either way. Just be prepared to come hungry!

Danielle Schleig is a beer enthusiast, avid hiker, and bookworm traveling throughout the US 50 states and beyond! Find her at Wanderlust While Working.

O Ya 

Good for: the most special of occasions

Boston is justly famous for its casual restaurant and cheap eats. But sometimes a bowl of clam chowder or a dive bar won’t do. Sometimes you want to take someone out for dinner and really go for broke. On those occasions, O Ya is the perfect place to go.

O Ya is owned by Boston native Tim Cushman and his wife Nancy. It is regularly ranked not only as one of the best sushi restaurants in Boston but also one of the top sushi restaurants in the country. It’s necessary to reserve well in advance because of this Boston restaurant’s small size. Most people are seated at tables, but solo diners will probably be placed at the chef’s counter where you can watch all the action.

You can order sushi a la carte, but they have many other Japanese options like soba noodles and vegetable or egg dishes.

However, if you’re really looking to splurge, get the 17 course omakase (chef’s choice) menu. The chef will present you with a dizzying array of creative dishes from king crab to cobia with banana pepper to spinach and caviar with plankton butter. Just go easy with the wine pairings! They can give up to eight full glasses of wine, which is more than enough for one person.

Stella Jane specializes in writing humorous 24 hour travel itineraries, which she shares at Around the World in 24 Hours.

Shojo

Good for: modern Asian tapas

Shojo is located right in the center of Chinatown in Boston, MA. Shojo sticks out in Chinatown because it has a more modern look to its building, and its menu as well!

This Boston restaurant’s menu is full of items that are perfect to share with the table. We first ordered the Kimchi Rice because we kept seeing waiters bring it out for other tables and it just looked so good. This is a huge portion of rice, so it is a great one to share with the whole table—even our kids loved it.

Another favorite that we got was the Bulgogi Beef Baos. We really had a hard time not ordering one of everything, and the portions are big so make sure to come hungry!

Try Shojo if you’re looking for a great restaurant in Boston and modern Asian cuisine. I would suggest making a reservation for dinner to avoid a wait. Also, it is worth noting that the atmosphere in the restaurant is very loud and they played some awesome music during our meal! 

While Shojo isn’t your traditional dim sum restaurant, it’s an exciting Boston restaurant with modern menu of a wide variety of options. So be sure to share with your whole table!

The Patsey family loves to travel in the United States and find the best food everywhere they visit. Follow along this family of four’s adventures at Patsey Family Travels.

Best dessert in Boston

Mike’s Pastry

Good for: the best cannolis in Boston

Founded in 1946, Mike’s Pastry is a favorite for both tourists and local Bostonians. Mike’s original location is in the historic North End of Boston on Hanover Street. However, they recently opened second and third locations in Cambridge and Somerville. 

If you want to experience amazing dessert in Boston, Mike’s true Italian cannolis should be your pick. Depending on time of your visit, be prepared for a short wait as the line at Hanover Street can be out the door during peak times. But don’t let the wait scare you as they are very organized and keep the line moving. 

While you can’t go wrong with any of the pastries including cookies, macaroons and more, the thing to order is a cannoli. They have many flavors from which to choose, but you can’t go wrong with the traditional. 

When visiting Boston, you should add Mike’s Pastry to your list of things to try—you won’t be disappointed!

Nancy Williams loves visiting new places and experiencing new things which is the foundation for her blog, Checking It Off the List.

L.A. Burdick Chocolates 

Good for: a sugar fix and a moment of escape from sightseeing and crowds

L.A. Burdick Chocolates is a calm oasis in a busy area. Located just two blocks away from the Boston Public Library, L.A. Burdick Chocolates is a chocolate shop, cafe, and bakery all rolled into one. When you walk in the lovely wooden tables, pastel colors, and brass chandelier will make you feel as though you’ve been transported to Europe.

Despite the beautiful ambience and world class chocolates, their drinks and pastries remain affordable. They have plenty of options for tea lovers, coffee lovers, and don’t forget their multiple choices of drinking chocolates!

For chocolate lovers, there are freshly made bonbons and bars of chocolates made from sustainable cacao. Treat yourself to a cake, drink, or chocolates. (I recommend the chocolate croissant and Earl Grey bonbon!)

To top it all off, L.A. Burdick Chocolates partners with the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an organization committed to conserve and protect African elephants. Ten percent of the proceeds from their elephant chocolate lines go to support the trust. L.A. Burdick Chocolates started in New Hampshire and there are now five locations across the U.S. (including another location in Cambridge), with a new Washington D.C. location opening in the fall of 2019. 

Rose Trafford operates The Compass Rose Co, where she helps people travel more easily through insider tips and miles/points hacks—and mostly stays out of trouble along the way. 

Flour Bakery + Cafe

Good for: Breakfast, lunch, pastries, and dessert 

Flour Bakery is a refuge to morning commuters and those who need a quick lunch break, but they’re also absolutely worth your time when visiting Boston. With seven locations, plus their office where they lead classes, you’re bound to be in an area where there is one. Keep in mind though, that they can be quite busy during morning and lunch hours, so try to go during an off-peak time so you can grab a table and enjoy the atmosphere (and the fantastic bakery smells) while you enjoy your meal and treats. Or, perhaps, take it to go if you’re at the Clarendon Street location and enjoy a picnic in Copley Square! 

The sandwiches and salads at this Boston bakery are made-to-order (their balsamic dressing is delicious by the way), and they have a wide array of desserts and pastries. Pictured here is their triple chocolate mousse cake, which absolutely melted in my mouth.

Flour Bakery + Cafe has everything from cakes to cupcakes, tarts to tartlettes, pies to cookies, crumb bars to macaroons, muffins to scones, croissants to sticky buns, and so much more! Let’s just say, it’s worth saving your sweet tooth for Flour—you won’t regret it! 

Kate Bispham is a virtual assistant, travel consultant and founder of New England Women Travel; find her at Detailed Journeys. 

Blackbird Doughnuts

Good for: donut ice cream sandwiches (yes that’s really a thing)

Whether you spell ’em doughnuts or donuts, or eat them for breakfast or dessert, there’s no arguing that Blackbird makes some of the best donuts in Boston. But to really step it up a notch, pick your favorite donut flavor—then have them turn it into an ice cream sandwich.

Your doughy, sprinkle-bedecked donut is cut in half and filled with a disc of delicious vanilla ice cream. They’ll even put extra sprinkles on the edge so it looks extra-pretty.

I’ve never heard of donut ice cream sandwiches before heading to Boston. So while you’re here, you do not want to miss this one-of-a-kind Boston dessert.

If, however, you’re still full from your previous meal, you can always get a baggie of mini-doughnuts. They’re adorable—and shareable—so you can taste these amazing Boston donuts without stuffing yourself.

Where to eat in Boston

Are you hungry yet? I sure am. I have half a mind to head back to Massachusetts just so I can eat at these Boston restaurants!

Do you have any recommendations not covered here? Where would be the top of your list of where to eat in Boston? Share below in the comments… unless you’ve already run to the kitchen to satisfy your cravings!

The post 21 best restaurants in Boston for breakfast, lunch, dinner + dessert appeared first on To & Fro Fam.