USA

7 Best Restaurants in Boston You Must Visit

Treat yourself to some of the finest dining the city has to offer.

It’s well-known that Boston has a sprawling dining scene. In fact, this historical city offers everything – from traditional to premium international cuisine. There’s local seafood, delicious Italian dishes, delicate Asian flavors, and more to choose from. And as a big bonus, you can enjoy the meals in the unique Boston setting.

The choice of location is generous as well. You’ll find unique restaurants in Boston at various places, ranging from the oceanside to the renowned downtown streets. Pick any of the 7 best restaurants in Boston from our list and have an unforgettable culinary experience.

1. Brassica Kitchen and Cafe

At the southern tip of Jamaica Plain, Brassica Kitchen and Cafe is a hidden gem. A cafe by day, it turns into a creative restaurant by the evening. The menu has both local and international specialties. And the dishes come with a unique style that’s seldom found in other eateries.

Besides the local and seasonal ingredients, the restaurant also has various fermented foods on offer. The fried chicken and risotto stand out, but the rest of the menu can easily compete. Even in its cafe form, Brassica has excellent homemade pastries and sandwiches.

Not a traditional restaurant by any means, this is a place you should make sure to visit.

2. Merengue Restaurant

Specializing in Dominican cuisine, Merengue has been in business for decades. Its cozy, colorful interior is as inviting as the dishes. The restaurant also has another famous staple – the cocktails. The list is quite extensive, ranging from mojitos to daiquiris and more.

While you could go for the more familiar pork chops or steaks, we’d recommend trying the Caribbean delicacies. There’s even plantain-based food like mofongo or stuffed tostones. There are so many options but make sure to try one of the dishes with the famed chimichurri sauce.

Merengue is considered among the best seafood restaurants in Boston, so fish, shrimps, or lobster are always a great choice.

3. El Oriental de Cuba

Small and inconspicuous, El Oriental de Cuba is a place for some serious bites. In the heart of Jamaica Plain, this diner is known as one of the best Cuban restaurants in Boston. It offers soups, rice specials, vegetarian, meat, and seafood dishes.

The absolute stars of El Oriental de Cuba are the sandwiches. While this might seem a strange spotlight for a restaurant, one taste of the Specialty Cuban will explain it all. It takes a special skill to produce a sandwich that can compete with a full restaurant meal. Yet, El Oriental de Cuba manages just that.

To round up the perfect Cuban meal, make sure to try the flavorful Cuban coffee or one of their wonderful tropical shakes.

4. Toro

Contrasting some of the more casual restaurants, Toro is a high-end dining venue. It might be challenging to book a table at this South End restaurant, but there’s a good reason for that. It’s because the cuisine is mainly based on Spanish tapas – both traditional and with a modern twist.

The menu has everything, from simple grilled dishes to daring, complex combinations. The seafood is top-quality, ranging from a variety of fish to grilled octopus. The meat tapas are also excellent and there’s a wide selection of vegetarian dishes. Don’t miss some of the more delicate, complex options, such as the Costillas Cortas short ribs.

Provided you manage to get in, Toro is a premium fine dining venue everyone should experience.

5. Chickadee

Tucked away on the east side of Seaport, Chickadee offers a great blend of local and Mediterranean cuisine. The incredible variety of delicacies can satisfy every taste. There’s black truffle bigoli, or wild boar, for the meat-eaters. While those interested in seafood will enjoy the squid ink fusilli. The vegetarian semolina gnocchi is a treat for the taste buds.

Chickadee is considered one of the top Seaport restaurants. The Portugal and Mediterranean-inspired flavors are exciting and fine-tuned. Having one of the tasty meals from the menu on the gorgeous waterfront is an unforgettable experience.

The restaurant is young, especially by Boston standards. However, it’s a comfortable and smooth-running place.

6. Row 34

It’s hard to get a reservation at the best seafood restaurants in Boston and Row 34 counts as one of them.

This restaurant is spearheading the development of the dining scene in the Fort Point area of the Seaport. The casual oyster bar atmosphere is a big selling point for Row 34. Yet, you should keep in mind that the restaurant is highly popular and free tables are always limited.

The seafood is fresh out of the water, and the lobster rolls deserve a special highlight. There are some vegetarian dishes as well, but almost no meat options. But whoever comes to Row 34 doesn’t expect anything other than premium seafood anyway. It’s the main focus of the restaurant after all, with everything on the menu made to perfection.

Row 34 has a wine card on the same level of quality as the meals. So if you’re looking for restaurants in Boston, make sure to get a booking in the lobster rolls capital.

7. Ya

A hidden gem of the Leather District of Chinatown, O Ya attracts new customers with its incredible sushi courses. The omakase menu is nightly-designed and features a variety of sushi and cooked dishes. You can even pair the order with traditional Asian or local beverages.

The essential dish to try, though, might not be about the seafood at all. You’ll find wagyu beef on the menu, and for anyone who hasn’t tried it, that’s a must. Bear in mind that the amazing meals at this award-winning restaurant have proportionate prices.

If you’d like to treat yourself to delicate, premium-quality food, make sure to pay O Ya a visit.

From Playful Street Food to Fine Dining

The choice of excellent restaurants in Boston is already huge, and it keeps growing. You can find a high-quality representative of almost every cuisine in the city. Even better, the authentic Boston city areas will make the whole experience unique and memorable.

California

Why Oceanside Is The Coolest Beach Town In California You’ve Never Heard Of

Oceanside: The Coolest Beach Town in California You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should!)

Forget the crowded boardwalks and sky-high prices of California’s more famous beach towns. There’s a true gem sparkling on the Southern California coast, quietly cultivating a vibrant, authentic, and undeniably cool vibe: Oceanside. If it’s not on your radar yet, prepare to be wonderfully surprised.

For years, Oceanside might have been considered merely a pit stop on the way to San Diego. But those days are long gone. This dynamic city has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a destination that perfectly blends classic California surf culture with a burgeoning arts scene, an exciting culinary landscape, and a commitment to sustainable living.

So, what makes Oceanside the coolest beach town you’ve been missing out on? Let’s dive in!

More Than Just Miles of Sand (Though We Have Plenty!)

Oceanside Pier — Aeroviews.co. (2025). Available at: https://aeroviews.co [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Yes, Oceanside boasts 3.5 miles of pristine, wide sandy beaches – perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or catching a wave. But it’s the iconic Oceanside Pier that truly sets the scene. Stretching nearly 2,000 feet into the Pacific, it’s one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, offering breathtaking views, fantastic fishing (no license required!), and a quintessential California stroll. You’ll see surfers carving lines below and may even spot dolphins or seals playing in the waves.

Just north of the pier, the Oceanside Harbor is a charming hub for all things maritime. Think colorful boats, fresh seafood restaurants, and opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, or paddleboarding. It’s a picturesque spot to soak in the coastal ambiance.

A Surfer’s Paradise with a Rich History

Oceanside’s roots are deeply entwined with surf culture, and it’s celebrated at the fantastic California Surf Museum. Here, you can immerse yourself in the sport’s history, marvel at vintage boards (including an 11-foot redwood from the 1800s!), and learn about legendary surfers. Even Bethany Hamilton’s shark-bitten board is on display, a testament to the resilience and spirit of the surf community.

Beyond surfing, Oceanside embraces its past with historic landmarks like the Mission San Luis Rey and the beautifully restored “Top Gun” House (now serving up nostalgic pies!). You’ll find a blend of old and new, creating a unique character you won’t find just anywhere.

A Culinary Scene That Will Surprise and Delight

Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Prepare your taste buds, because Oceanside’s food scene is booming! What was once a sleepy surf town is now a culinary hotspot, with new and exciting restaurants popping up regularly. From European bistros to East Coast-inspired delis, and a plethora of craft breweries and wine-tasting rooms, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Don’t miss out on exploring Artist Alley, a vibrant space that hosts a First Friday Art Walk with pop-up galleries and artisan goods, often with delicious food trucks on hand.

Beyond the Beach: Unique Adventures Await

Biking — Nitrocdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://cdn-ilbhmcd.nitrocdn.com [Accessed 14 Jul. 2025]

Oceanside offers a surprising array of activities that go beyond the typical beach day:

Skydiving with Ocean Views: For the ultimate thrill, try indoor skydiving at iFLY or, for the truly adventurous, jump out of a plane with GoJump Oceanside for unparalleled views of the coastline.
Goat Hill Park: This isn’t your average golf course. It’s a refreshingly inclusive and unique spot with ocean views, a relaxed atmosphere (no dress code, rock music!), and even a commitment to local beekeeping!
Whale Watching: Year-round excursions from the Harbor offer incredible opportunities to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins.
Biking the Strand: A pedestrian-friendly path runs parallel to the ocean, perfect for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.
Sunset Market: On Thursday evenings, Pier View Way transforms into a lively outdoor market with food, music, and local crafts – an experience not to be missed.

Why Oceanside is Your Next California Escape

Oceanside isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a community with a strong sense of identity, a laid-back charm, and a dedication to growth that benefits both visitors and locals. It’s less crowded than its Southern California neighbors, offering a more authentic and relaxed beach town experience. And with visitor spending consistently growing (reaching $568 million in 2022!), it’s clear that more and more people are discovering its magic.

So, if you’re looking for a California beach getaway that’s off the beaten path, rich in culture, brimming with delicious food, and offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, then Oceanside is calling your name. It’s the coolest beach town in California you’ve never heard of, and it’s time to change that.

Myrtle Beach

What They Don’t Tell You About Orlando (Hint: It’s Not All About the Mouse)

Orlando is world-famous for one thing: the Mouse. And sure, Walt Disney World is a bucket list destination. But beyond the theme park turnstiles and fairy tale castles, there’s a version of Orlando most visitors never get to see—one filled with local charm, unexpected adventures, and culture that has nothing to do with characters in costume.

Here’s what they don’t tell you about Orlando (and why that’s a good thing).

1. A Food Scene Worth Traveling For

While most visitors are dining on theme park fare, locals are indulging in everything from Vietnamese street eats to Michelin-starred tasting menus. Neighborhoods like Mills 50, Winter Park, and Audubon Park are packed with independently owned gems that rival big-city cuisine.

Audubon Park — Squarespace-cdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://images.squarespace-cdn.com [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Try This: – The Ravenous Pig for upscale gastropub favorites – Domu for trendy ramen and sake cocktails – Kadence for an intimate sushi tasting experience

2. Nature That Feels Like Another World

Swap roller coasters for river bends and ancient cypress trees. Orlando is surrounded by lush springs, lakes, and natural preserves that make it easy to escape the noise.

Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Don’t Miss: – Wekiwa Springs for crystal-clear swimming and kayaking – Lake Eola for a scenic walk or swan boat ride in the city – Harry P. Leu Gardens for peaceful trails through botanical wonder

3. Culture With a Local Beat

Orlando’s arts and culture scene is vibrant and authentic. Catch indie films under the stars at Enzian Theater, browse modern art at Snap! Orlando, or take in a Broadway show at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

Widen.net. (2025). Available at: https://visitorlando.widen.net [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Bonus Tip: Head to the Milk District for street art, vintage shops, and cool dive bars with a neighborhood vibe.

4. Unexpected Neighborhood Gems

The best part of Orlando might just be outside the tourist map. Winter Park is full of European-style charm, with sidewalk cafés, art galleries, and boat tours through historic lakeside estates. College Park and Thornton Park offer boutique shopping, cocktail bars, and weekend markets that feel miles away from theme park lines.

5. A Wellness Scene That Goes Beyond Spa Day

Orangespringsretreat.com. (2025). Available at: https://orangespringsretreat.com [Accessed 17 Jul. 2025]

Locals know how to slow down, too. From sunrise yoga by the lake to float therapy and holistic health studios, Orlando offers all the tools for a restful reset.

The Bottom Line Yes, Orlando has theme parks—and they’re amazing. But the real magic happens in the neighborhoods, the nature, and the flavor you won’t find in a brochure. What they don’t tell you about Orlando? It’s not just for kids. It’s a destination for anyone looking to dig a little deeper and discover something real.

Trip Ideas

This Is What Vegas Locals Really Do (Hint: It’s Not on the Strip)

Las Vegas might be the Entertainment Capital of the World—but ask any local, and they’ll tell you: the real Vegas is miles away from the Strip. Beyond the neon glow and slot machines lies a vibrant, creative, and surprisingly laid-back city that most tourists never get to see. If you’re ready to explore Las Vegas like a local, here’s what you’ll find:

1. Hit the Arts District, Not the Casinos

Las Vegas NV Art District — Atomicscooterslv.com. (2025). Available at: https://atomicscooterslv.com/ [Accessed 16 Jul. 2025].

Just 10 minutes from the Strip, the 18b Arts District is a local favorite. Packed with colorful murals, hip breweries, vintage shops, and indie galleries, it’s where creativity thrives. First Friday art walks, local makers’ markets, and food truck fests bring the community together in the coolest way.

2. Hike Red Rock Canyon at Sunrise

Locals trade blackjack tables for desert trails. Red Rock Canyon offers jaw-dropping hikes, rock climbing, and sunset views that rival any Vegas light show. Get there early to beat the heat and see the desert in its golden-hour glory.

3. Ditch the Buffets, Try the Chinatown Eats

Chinatown Las Vegas Food — Thrillist.com. (2025). Available at: https://assets3.thrillist.com/ [Accessed 16 Jul. 2025].

Vegas has one of the best Chinatowns in the U.S.—and it’s not just Chinese food. Locals love hole-in-the-wall spots serving everything from Thai street noodles to Korean BBQ and Japanese desserts. It’s a foodie paradise without the resort markups.

4. Catch a Live Band in a Backyard Bar

Forget massive arena concerts—locals head to dive bars like The Sand Dollar or Jammyland for soul, jazz, funk, and indie sets. These hidden gems have real character, cold drinks, and some of the best local talent in town.

5. Soak in the Views at a Rooftop Bar Downtown

Instead of pricey lounges on the Strip, Vegas residents hit up rooftop spots in Downtown or Summerlin. Think fewer lines, better service, and unbeatable skyline views—without the tourist chaos.

6. Explore Vintage Vegas

Thetravelimages.com. (2025). Available at: https://static1.thetravelimages.com/ [Accessed 16 Jul. 2025].

Locals know the charm of Old Vegas. Fremont East has reinvented itself with retro neon signs, cool speakeasies, and throwback diners that channel the Rat Pack era with a modern twist.

7. Escape to Mount Charleston

Yes, Vegas has mountains. And locals love escaping the desert heat by heading up to Mount Charleston for hiking, skiing, or a cozy cabin weekend—just under an hour from the city.

The Bottom Line? Vegas locals know how to live well without the crowds. Whether it’s hiking at sunrise, sipping craft cocktails downtown, or discovering under-the-radar food joints, the real Vegas is full of surprises—and it’s waiting for you to explore it.