Having lived in Boston for a few years, I came to appreciate what fresh seafood really can taste like. Being on the coast has major advantages, like fish, caught the same morning, lots of availability, and a sustainable mindset. When looking for where to dine on seafood in Boston, there are many places to choose from, which can seem daunting. So take a look at these top 5 options to help narrow your search.
Located near Quincy Market, and known throughout Boston as the best seafood in the city, it is a hard table to come by due to lack of reservations. But if you wait, it will be worth the wait. Along with fresh oysters (a local specialty of the NE), their crude menu and entrees such as the Maine Lobster Roll will please any seafood palate. This is a cozy and upscale spot, worth visiting for a romantic evening if you are willing to wait.
Located in Fenway, this is a number two spot on this list, but #1 in my heart. Their menu is extensive and changing, and filled with delicious oysters, a daily Crudo, and several delicious entrees. I tend to fill up on oysters, with lemon and mignonette and top off the meal with a delicious buttermilk biscuit drizzled with honey. The drinks are divine as well, pairing several mixology favorites, fresh-pressed juice, and bartenders who will mix almost any creations for you. The atmosphere is airy and fresh, with huge oyster-shell filled cages as part of the decor.
If you are seeing an oyster trend here, you are right on. However, along with oysters you can dine on delicious lobster rolls and premium champagne at this intimate bar in South Boston. I prefer a glass of Veuve Cliquot with my oysters at B&G.
Located in the fast-growing Seaport District, this is a Legal Seafood location known for fine dining and casual dining on different floors and one of the best rooftops in the city. The lines can be long for the rooftop, so head up mid-afternoon and take in your fill of fresh sushi and drinks while taking in the view.
Clio Restaurant, now known as Uni
Located in the Elliot Hotel, right on the border of Back Bay and Fenway, this upscale restaurant boasts a lovely fine dining and modern atmosphere, with delicious food to ensure your experience is perfect. Feast on the changing menu which boasts local halibut and cod, and bluefin tuna, all of which come and goes with the seasons.
Honorable mentions: Ostra, a new restaurant in the Theater District. Fine dining meets innovative cuisine, in a lovely and vast restaurant. Turner Fisheries, located in the Westin Copley Place, right in the heart of Boston; this is an old meets young spot, known for great seafood classics and the occasional twist. They have a wonderful wine selection to go along with your local Black Cod, or another dish of choice, and a location overlooking the lovely Copley Square.
If you are dining on seafood in Boston you will be sure to be pleased wherever you go, but for a special and luxurious experience, be sure to take in one of these delicious choices on your next trip.
By Parul Lahoti