Some of the best-known restaurants in Massachusetts by city, along with a brief description of their menu:
Boston:
Neptune Oyster: This seafood restaurant is located in the North End and is known for its fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and clam chowder. In addition to their popular raw bar options, they also serve a variety of seafood dishes, such as pan-seared scallops, grilled swordfish, and clam linguine.
Union Oyster House: This historic restaurant is located on the Freedom Trail and has been operating since 1826, making it the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States. They serve classic New England seafood dishes, such as clam chowder, lobster bisque, and broiled Boston scrod.
Top of the Hub: Located on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower, this restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the city skyline. They serve a variety of American cuisines, such as New England clam chowder, Maine lobster risotto, and filet mignon. They also have an extensive wine list.
Cambridge:
Craigie on Main: This French-inspired restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes frequently based on what’s available. Popular dishes include crispy fried pigtails, roasted bone marrow, and slow-cooked beef short rib.
Oleana: This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant is located in Inman Square and is known for its creative mezze dishes, such as smoked bluefish pate, stuffed grape leaves, and lamb kofta. They also serve entrees such as seared scallops, lamb shank, and roasted chicken.
Alden & Harlow: This restaurant in Harvard Square focuses on American cuisine with a farm-to-table ethos. Their menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons and the availability of ingredients. Popular dishes include crispy Brussels sprouts, pan-roasted hake, and grilled pork chop.
Salem:
The Lobster Shanty: This seafood restaurant is located on Pickering Wharf and is known for its lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fish and chips. They also have a raw bar with a variety of oysters, clams, and shrimp.
Howling Wolf Taqueria: This Mexican restaurant serves classic dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, as well as a variety of tequila and mezcal cocktails. They have a fun and casual atmosphere and outdoor seating in warmer months.
Turner’s Seafood: This seafood restaurant is located on Church Street and serves classic New England dishes, such as lobster bisque, clam chowder, and fried clams. They also have a raw bar with a variety of oysters and clams.
Provincetown:
The Lobster Pot: This seafood restaurant is located in the heart of Provincetown and is known for its lobster dishes, as well as its Portuguese specialties such as kale soup and linguica. They also have a raw bar with a variety of oysters and clams.
Canteen: This restaurant focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They offer a variety of dishes such as breakfast sandwiches, clam chowder, and lobster rolls. They have a cozy and laid-back atmosphere.
The Mews: This seafood restaurant is located on Commercial Street and has beautiful views of the harbor. They serve classic New England dishes such as clam chowder and baked stuffed lobster, as well as more creative options such as sesame-crusted tuna and shrimp pad Thai.