No matter where you live, there’s always that one neighborhood restaurant that keeps you coming back time after time. The perfect combination of great service, a homey vibe and amazing food is a recipe for success, and here are a few places across Massachusetts that deliver all that and more.
1. The Marketplace Cafe, Pittsfield
This place serves amazing sandwiches at prices that are just as good. It’s right beside the Berkshire Museum, so you can stop in for a quick bite before checking out the exhibits. Parking here can be a bit tricky during peak lunch time, but the food is worth it. Try the Bartholomew’s Gobble, which is basically Thanksgiving on a roll.
2. The Brass Buckle, Greenfield
People rave about the corned beef hash at this place. It’s homemade and full of big chunks of high-quality meat. They also serve freshly squeezed orange juice, which pairs nicely with any one of the breakfast offerings, such as the banana bread french toast or light and fluffy eggs. The decor is funky and cool, and the service will make you feel like a regular.
3. Jake's, Northampton
This is another awesome place that serves a little bit of everything, but specializes in an incredible brunch. Though it may be a secret outside of the area, Jack’s is extremely popular with locals and there’s usually a line on the weekends. The hash changes daily and there are unlimited free refills on the coffee. Try the maple bacon pancakes for a hit of sweetness, or sample the pork eggs benedict.
4. Frigo Gourmet Foods, Springfield
Frigo is a one stop shop for homemade Italian everything. The grinders are legendary, but the prepared lasagna and desserts are also amazing. This place doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it’s a true neighborhood deli with an authentic vibe. You’ll have a hard time choosing just one item from their large menu, but the chicken parmesan sandwich is highly recommended.
5. Lou Roc's Diner, Worcester
Lou Roc’s is a classic neighborhood watering hole. The service is cheerful and familiar, and even first time visitors will feel right at home. A word of warning: the portions here are huge, which means you’ll likely have a pile of delicious leftovers to take home. Try the Irish eggs benedict, which comes with homemade hash and perfectly seasoned potatoes.
6. Spalla’s Chicago Italian Beef, Natick
7. The Aviary, Swansea
Aviary specializes in contemporary American cuisine, and their offerings are always thoughtful and interesting. Their outdoor seating is perfect for having a cool drink on warm summer nights, and the kitchen really goes the extra mile to accommodate guests. Try the pressed hen and the flat iron steak.
8. Depot Diner, Beverly
At the Depot Diner, you get huge servings of tasty grub in a bustling but friendly atmosphere. It's a popular place and you might end up waiting for a table, but you won't mind once you tuck into your meal. Try the Chicago omelette (pictured) for a morning indulgence that will keep you full well past lunch.
9. Keltic Kitchen, West Yarmouth
Keltic Kitchen is a West Yarmouth mainstay, and one of the coziest eateries you’ll ever find.The walls are covered with police and firefighter patches from all over the place, which shows how connected this place is to the community. The staff is warm and welcoming, and the food is a mix of traditional Irish offerings and New England comfort food. Though they’re not a main dish, the potato pancakes here are to die for.
10. Green Harbor Lobster Pound, Marshfield
This charming waterfront seafood shack is a local favorite. Of course, the price of lobster varies throughout the season, but it's not uncommon to grab two large lobsters from this place for under $30. The restaurant will steam the lobsters for you for free if you let them know you'd like to eat at the picnic tables, and a huge helping of dipping butter is just an extra buck.
Can’t get enough of fantastic local eateries? Check out this remote (but amazing) Massachusetts restaurant that specializes in mouth-watering comfort food.
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