We all know that one restaurant that looks like a total dump from the outside, but magically serves up incredible munchables again and again. Some truly amazing food spots don’t show their true colors until you take that first bite. Take these 8 hidden gem restaurants in Massachusetts, for example. What these unassuming little spots lack in curb appeal, they more than make up for in delicious, crave-worthy food. Here are a few hidden gem restaurants in Massachusetts that may not look fancy, but are definitely worth trying.

1. Harrison's Roast Beef, North Andover
Harrison's Roast Beef/Google Local
Kevin Seifert/Google Local
This is not a classy joint. It’s a bare-bones, simple eatery that specializes in mouth-watering roast beef sandwiches. They’re not fancy, but once you’ve had one, you’ll be back for another. Stop by the official website of Harrison's Roast Beef.
2. Dave's Fresh Pasta, Somerville
Jeremy Valadez/Google Local
Facebook/Dave's Fresh Pasta
From the outside, this spot seems to be some sort of specialty food grocer. Step inside, however, and you’ll discover they’re dishing out way more than deliciously fresh pasta. Dave’s actually has some of the best sandwiches you’l find anywhere, and they. are. HUGE. Seriously tasty and seriously huge. Double win. Learn more on the official website of Dave's Fresh Pasta.
3. Mesa Verde, Greenfield
Aubri Drake/Google Local
Chris Plath/Google Local
In need of next-level Mexican food in the Pioneer Valley? This place has you covered. Though it sort of looks like some kind of zany skate shop, this little burrito joint whips up awesome fare for incredibly low prices. The chips and guac are addicting, and their bowls blow their fast-casual competition out of the water! Good luck finding anything over nine bucks on their menu. Check out the menu on the official website of Mesa Verde.
4. Colonial House Cafe, Norwood
Google Maps
Kelly/Google Local
This restaurant looks like somewhere you’d buy mulch, not incredible traditional New England dinner fare. Appearing to be just another home on a residential street, the Colonial House boasts a gigantic menu and some really gorgeous interior touches, like post and beam ceilings and a cozy, roaring fireplace. The steak is superb; the clam chowder is the best in the area; and the fish and chips is some of the best you'll ever have. Stop by the official website of Colonial House Norwood for more information.

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5. Shanty Rose Pub, Plymouth Harbor
Google Maps
Facebook/The Shanty Rose
This is a former fish market that is very unassuming -- okay, it kind of looks like a utility storage shed. However, the Shanty Rose Pub stays true to its fishy roots by serving up some of the freshest seafood you’ll find on the harbor, and for prices that are way lower than the touristy spots in the area. Locals love their whole belly fried clams and family atmosphere. Definitely a townie spot, and that’s part of the charm. Head over to the official website of Shanty Rose Pub for more information.
6. Krau Thai, Buzzards Bay
Robert Price/Google Local
Rachel Grati/Google Local
If you’re looking for a restaurant that packs a lot of punch into an insanely small package, this is it. Though their dining room only seats a few people, their offerings are ridiculously good. Your best bet might be takeout due to their tiny dining quarters, but no matter where you actually sit down to eat, the crazy noodles are a must-munch. This is perhaps the best Thai food in all of MA! Here's the official website of Krau Thai.
7. Antonio's Pizza, Amherst
Super Fizz/Google Local
Murray Cecil Clayton/Google Local
This place looks like any other tiny neighborhood pizza place. Step inside, however, and you’ll smell that bready, saucy, cheesy scent that is the unmistakable mark of delicious pizza production. Since they offer pizza by the slice, you can try one of everything -- but their veggie pesto 'zas are particularly crave-worthy. If pizza isn’t your game, try their honey mustard chicken pies. Delicious and cheap, what more can you ask for? Browse the menu or order online on the official website of Antonio's Pizza.
8. Pit Stop Barbecue, Mattapan (Morton Village)
Pit Stop Barbeque/Google Local
Pit Stop Barbeque/Google Local
This place may not look like much (okay, it looks like a sketchy convenience store), but oh my goodness: one bite of their ribs and you’re going to be asking them to cater your next party -- heck, even your wedding! The cajun-spice seasoning and tangy Carolina-style sauce at this Massachusetts dive will blow you away. A quick word of warning: there’s only seating for four. Yes, four people. And they’re only open select days of the week. So plan accordingly -- but trust us, it's worth a little planning ahead! Learn more on the official website of Pit Stop Barbecue.

So are you also craving burgers, pizza, BBQ, and fish and chips? Do you know of any other hidden gem restaurants in Massachusetts? Let us know in the comments below! Next time you’re in the mood for one of the best burgers in the state, make your way to Mr. Bartley’s in Cambridge.

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More to Explore

Hidden Gem Restaurants In Massachusetts

Beth Price-Williams | February 16, 2021

What are the best hidden gem restaurants in Massachusetts?

We all face the same problem, at least from time to time, in choosing where to dine in Massachusetts. We’re spoiled with choices, in fact. Henrietta's Table in Harvard Square serves some of the best breakfast dishes in the entire state. True Bistro in Somerville is a vegan restaurant with a menu brimming with flavorful meals, including such favorites as saffron pasta ravioli. Cap your meal off with a slice of chocolate bourbon pie. The Federalist in Agawam, White Hut in West Springfield, and Hungry Ghost Bread in Northampton are all sure to tease your taste buds, too.

Are there any waterfront restaurants in Massachusetts?

Nothing pairs better with a delicious meal than jaw-dropping views. That’s just what you’ll get when you dine at Bay Pointe Waterfront Restaurant, in Quincy, which overlooks the bay. In the warmer months, you’ll definitely want to sit outdoors to catch a colorful sunset. The restaurant, one of the best in Massachusetts dining, serves such dishes as lobster avocado, clam chowder, and pan-seared sea scallops. For a really unique dining experience, right on the water, visit the seasonal Sesuit Harbor Café in Dennis. A tiny shack, it serves such delicious items as lobster rolls. Sit at one of the picnic tables to admire the water views.

What are the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Massachusetts?

Sometimes the absolute best local restaurants in Massachusetts are its hole-in-the-wall eateries. They may not boast flashy exteriors, but their menus more than make up for it. If you’ve never had an authentic Puerto Rican meal or are just craving one, stop by El Rincon Boricua Restaurant in Holyoke. Try such favorites as the lasagna todo los Martes for a delicious and an affordable meal. Sometimes nothing hits the spot like a delicious hot dog with all of our favorite toppings. That calls for a visit to Jack’s Hot Dog Stand in North Adams, a favorite since 1917.

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Featured Addresses
80 Chickering Rd, North Andover, MA 01845, USA
81 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144, USA
10 Fiske Ave, Greenfield, MA 01301, USA
33 Savin Ave, Norwood, MA 02062, USA
16 Town Wharf, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA
676 Amherst Rd, Sunderland, MA 01375, USA
91 Main St, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532, USA
31 N Pleasant St, Amherst, MA 01002, USA
888 Morton St A, Mattapan, MA 02126, USA
44 Main St, Northampton, MA 01060, USA