1. Artistry on the Green (Lexington)
For an unbeatably scrumptious brunch, drive out to Artistry on the Green in Lexington. Meals here are prepared using ingredients sourced from local farms, and it truly shines through in the quality of the dishes. At dinner, try the scallops or lamb. This restaurant is located at 2027 Massachusetts Avenue in Lexington.
2. The Rice Barn (Needham)
This restaurant focuses on Thai and Pacific Rim cuisine. Dishes range from traditional to innovative – you’ll find the expected soups, curries, fried rice, and noodle dishes, alongside some creative takes on these classics. The spicy basil noodles are particularly good. The Rice Barn is located at 1037 Great Plain Avenue in Needham.
3. Firenze Trattoria (Salem)
Savor the flavors of Tuscany in Salem! This Italian-inspired eatery has impeccable service and is a great destination for a cozy date night. You’ll find it at 2 Lynde Street in Salem.
4. Gustazo Cuban Restaurant and Cafe (Waltham)
If you were going to pick one Boston suburb to name as a foodie wonderland, Waltham’s diverse and stellar restaurants make it a strong contender. Whether you show up for crepes and omelets at brunch or explore the salad and sandwich options at lunch, the bold flavors at Gustazo will keep you coming back time and again. Gustazo is located at 663 Main Street in Waltham.
5. The Blue Ox (Lynn)
Lynn, Lynn, City of Sin… burgers. Yep, that’s right, The Blue Ox serves up a "sin burger" that has won Boston’s "Battle of the Burger" three times in recent years. This dish features applewood smoked bacon, Swiss cheese, and truffle aioli atop a juicy burger on a brioche bun. Check out this signature dish for yourself at 191 Oxford Street in Lynn.
6. Chatta Box (Bridgewater)
With a focus on Asian cuisine, this restaurant has received acclaim from the Boston Globe and is a popular dining destination on the South Shore. The Chatta Box is strong on sushi, and much of their cooked fare is prepared using healthier methods such as grilling, steaming, and stir-frying. This restaurant is located at 755 Bedford Street in Bridgewater.
7. Wenham Tea House (Wenham)
Discover this historic tea house, which has been around for over a century, out in Wenham. Reserve a spot at an afternoon tea that is sure to please fans of Downton Abbey or The Great British Baking Show . Spoil a little one in your life at Children’s Tea Time, which features costumed characters and story time. Wenham Tea House is located at 4 Monument Street in Wenham.
8. Rapscallion Table and Tap (Acton)
Although Rapscallion’s actual brewery is in Sturbridge, head to Acton to pair their craft beer with duck confit, bratwurst, or fish and chips. This charming restaurant is located inside a historic farmhouse at 5 Strawberry Hill Road in Acton.
9. Daniella’s Café and Market (Danvers)
Daniella’s is a local hangout hidden in Danvers. This Italian restaurant is attached to a petite, gourmet food store, where you can load up on pasta, oils, and vinegars. After shopping, move into the dining room and begin your meal with arancini or mussels in the most flavorful sauce you’ll ever taste. Follow that up with any menu item that includes the word "parmesan" and you'll leave with seriously satisfied taste buds. Daniella’s is located at 78 Holten Street in Danvers.
10. Lynwood Café (Randolph)
Lynwood Café has been in business since 1949, so this pizza joint has become a local institution. While there are lots of classic pizza toppings offered, the Boston Special with baked beans, onion, and salami is one of the more unique combos you’ll ever encounter. Lynwood Café is located at 320 Center Street in Randolph.
11. Marvel’s Lunch Box (Hull)
This little seafood joint is best known for lobster rolls, clam rolls, and its blueberry pineapple cornbread! Mosey on over to 163 Nantasket Avenue in Hull and try the food for yourself.
Which restaurant within easy driving distance of Boston is your favorite? Share your suggestions in the comments below!
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