Boston, a city known for its rich history and vibrant food scene, offers a surprising variety of pickles that delight both locals and visitors.
From tangy dill spears to spicy kimchi pickles, Boston’s pickle purveyors have mastered the art of brining and fermenting.
Whether you’re a pickle aficionado or just curious to explore new flavors, the city’s diverse offerings promise something for every palate.
In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best pickles in Boston, highlighting the unique tastes and textures that make each one a must-try.
Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the city’s top pickle spots and discover why these briny treats are worth seeking out.
From renowned delis to trendy gourmet shops, we’ll guide you to the hidden gems and popular favorites alike. Whether you crave classic recipes or innovative twists, Boston has a pickle for every enthusiast.
Top 10 Places for Pickles in Boston
Discover Boston’s best pickle spots, where tangy, crisp delights reign supreme. From artisanal jars to classic deli fare, these top 10 places offer pickle perfection for every palate.
1. A&B Kitchen & Bar
Steps from TD Garden, A&B Kitchen & Bar is the ideal spot to visit before or after a game, featuring a menu of burgers, comfort food, and standout sides like crispy fried pickles with chipotle aioli.
The pork belly Cubano is a must-try, offering a modern twist on a classic sandwich with layers of succulent pork belly, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on a toasted Cuban roll.
A&B Kitchen & Bar boasts an inviting atmosphere, extensive craft beer and cocktail selections, and friendly staff who can recommend perfect drink pairings.
This vibrant Boston eatery offers a culinary experience that enhances the excitement of sporting events.
2. Bleacher Bar
Bleacher Bar, located with a view directly into Fenway Park, offers a unique dining experience where you can enjoy game-day snacks like Mike’s fried pickles while watching the game through a garage window.
Known as a quintessential sports bar with a twist, it provides an exceptional vantage point right onto the outfield. The fried pickles are crisp, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, pairing excellently with local beers from their extensive draft list.
Combining flavorful food with an iconic Boston landmark, Bleacher Bar has become a beloved staple for both locals and tourists.
3. Boston Burger Company
Boston Burger Company, known for its oversized burgers and mammoth shakes, also excels in the fried pickle domain with their homemade “frickles.”
These long pickle slices, unlike the typical chips, are meticulously prepared to maintain a perfect balance of crunch and tang, enhanced by a light yet flavorful batter.
Whether enjoyed alone, on a sampler platter, or atop the “Rundown” burger, these fried pickles provide a delightful culinary experience.
The tangy crunch complements the richness of the burger, showcasing a blend of traditional flavors with modern twists.
Boston Burger Company’s frickles are a must-try for anyone embarking on a culinary adventure through Boston.
4. Cambridge Common
Cambridge Common in Cambridge, adjacent to Boston, offers fried pickle spears, dubbed “frickles,” coated in a spicy beer batter and served with ranch and chipotle aioli.
This pub, known for its casual atmosphere, has become a favorite among locals and visitors. The frickles’ crunchy, tangy, and spicy flavors pair perfectly with one of the 30 beers on tap, enhancing any visit whether for dinner, happy hour, or brunch.
Cambridge Common’s highlights include its unique fried pickles and extensive beer selection, solidifying its status as a staple in the Boston-area food scene.
5. Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar
Citizen Public House in Boston is celebrated for serving some of the city’s crispiest fried pickles, spicy fried dill pickles, hot cherry peppers topped with Old Bay seasoning, and house-made buttermilk ranch.
This late-night snack is available until 2 a.m. on weekends, making it a prime option for post-night-out indulgence.
The combination of expertly seasoned pickles and creamy ranch creates a balanced, flavorful experience, contributing to the establishment’s inviting atmosphere and innovative menu.
Citizen Public House is a standout destination in Boston for pickle enthusiasts and late-night diners alike.
6. Emmets Irish Pub & Restaurant
Emmets Irish Pub in Beacon Hill, Boston, offers a taste of Ireland with its standout half-sour fried pickle chips, served with herbed buttermilk ranch dip.
This unique bar snack pairs perfectly with a pint of Guinness, enhancing the authentic dining experience.
Known for its cozy Irish pub ambiance, Emmets is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. Its welcoming atmosphere, traditional décor, and friendly staff make it an ideal destination for casual meals and nights out.
Conveniently located near historic landmarks, Emmets provides a perfect respite for those exploring Boston’s rich history.
7. JM Curley
JM Curley is the ideal spot in Boston for late-night eats, famously offering crispy fried pickles with Creole sauce during dinner hours.
For a more upscale experience, check out their speakeasy steakhouse, Bogie’s Place, which serves high-quality steaks in an elegant, 1920s-inspired setting.
To end the night, head to the Wig Shop, a neighboring cocktail lounge known for its inventive drinks and vintage-modern vibe. Together, these venues offer a complete culinary journey, from casual bites to sophisticated dining and creative cocktails.
8. Local 149
Local 149 is a popular spot in Boston known for its inviting ambiance and eclectic menu, featuring fried pickles and peppers with ranch that have achieved legendary status.
These crispy, tangy snacks pair perfectly with local beers and are a favorite during Tuesday night trivia. The pub’s strategic location near Pleasure Bay and M Street Beach adds to its charm, blending bustling energy with serene coastal beauty.
Local 149 emphasizes the use of fresh, local ingredients, supporting the Boston community. Offering a vibrant mix of culinary delights, social events, and scenic landscapes, Local 149 provides a rich, memorable experience.
9. Lola Burger
Lola Burger in the Seaport area of Boston is known for its specialty burgers and fried dill pickles served with a tangy secret sauce.
This popular spot also offers a four-glass beer flight featuring a variety of local brews, making it an ideal destination for a delightful meal after a stroll on the Harborwalk and Waterfront Park.
The fried dill pickles are crispy and juicy, perfectly complemented by the creamy, slightly spicy secret sauce.
The combination of delicious food, craft beers, and the restaurant’s scenic location offers a uniquely Bostonian experience that appeals to both locals and visitors.
10. Loretta’s Last Call
Loretta’s Last Call in Fenway offers a unique dining experience combining Southern fare and live music in a vibrant, country-themed atmosphere.
Known for its fried pickles and jalapeños with “Comeback Sauce,” this iconic eatery has rustic décor and hosts local country bands, creating an authentic Southern ambiance.
The menu features classic Southern dishes, such as biscuits and gravy, prepared with a modern twist. Loretta’s Last Call is a must-visit destination for those seeking the essence of Southern living and cuisine in Boston.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Pickles
Boston offers a variety of outstanding pickles, but not all pickles are created equal. Here are the key criteria for selecting the best pickles in the city:
Flavor Profile
A standout pickle needs a perfect balance of salty, sour, sweet, and spicy notes. The flavor profile should be bold yet harmonized to complement the dish it accompanies.
Boston’s top spots, like A&B Kitchen & Bar, excel by offering pickles that feature unique spice blends, aging processes, and ingredient combinations.
For instance, their house-made pickles infuse a distinctive blend of cloves and dill, resulting in an unforgettable taste experience. If you venture to Boston Brine, you’ll discover meticulously crafted pickles with a delightful crunch.
Crunchiness
Pickles should have a satisfying crunch that adds texture to any meal. Crunchiness depends on factors like freshness, pickling technique, and the vegetable’s initial quality.
For instance, Bleacher Bar maintains its reputation by serving pickles that maintain their crunch from the first bite to the last. Another standout is Grillo’s Pickles, which are fermented using traditional methods for an exceptional burst of flavor and consistent crunch.
Keen to explore more? Let’s dive into Boston’s top pickle destinations.
Freshness
Freshness is key to a superior pickle experience. This involves using high-quality, often locally-sourced ingredients and ensuring the pickling process is not overly prolonged.
Restaurants like Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar prioritize freshness by frequently rotating their pickle batches and using seasonal produce. Similarly, Formaggio Kitchen’s in-house pickles are celebrated for their crisp texture and balanced flavor.
For those seeking a more unique twist, check out Grillo’s Pickles, known for their distinctive garlic dill recipe.
Tips for Enjoying Pickles in Boston
Enjoying pickles in Boston can be a delightful experience if you know how to pair, store, and savor them. Here are some tips to enhance your pickle adventure.
Pairing Pickles with Meals
Pair pickles with burgers. A&B Kitchen & Bar’s crispy fried pickles add a satisfying crunch to any juicy burger. Combine pickles with sandwiches.
Bleacher Bar’s spicy beer-battered pickle spears give any sandwich a flavorful kick. Mix pickles with charcuterie.
Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar’s pickles balance out the richness of cured meats and cheeses perfectly. Savor pickles with seafood. Pickles can cleanse your palate and complement the briny notes of oysters and other seafood dishes.
Storing Your Pickles
Store pickles in the fridge. Keep them refrigerated to maintain their crunch and freshness. Use airtight containers.
This prevents exposure to air, ensuring that your pickles stay crisp. Avoid direct sunlight. Store your pickles in dark places to preserve their color and flavor.
Consume within recommended time. Enjoy your pickles before they lose their texture and taste. For homemade or open jars, it’s best to consume within a month for optimal quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a pickle spot stand out in Boston?
The top pickle spots in Boston are known for their unique spice blends, crunchiness, and use of high-quality ingredients. Places like A&B Kitchen & Bar and Bleacher Bar excel by offering diverse pickle options that enhance the city’s culinary landscape.
How can you enjoy pickles with different foods?
Pickles are versatile and pair well with various foods. They add zest to burgers, sandwiches, and seafood. Including pickles in charcuterie boards also provides a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
What are the crucial factors for the best pickles?
The best pickles typically have a balanced flavor profile and satisfying crunchiness and are made from fresh, high-quality ingredients. Boston’s top pickle spots emphasize these elements in their offerings.
How should pickles be stored to maintain their quality?
Store pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crunchy. It’s also recommended to consume them within the suggested time frame to enjoy their peak flavor and texture.
What are some top spots for pickles in Boston?
A&B Kitchen & Bar and Bleacher Bar are among the top picks for pickle spots in Boston. These places are celebrated for their exceptional pickle offerings and innovative flavor combinations.
Conclusion
Sampling the best pickles in Boston offers a delightful culinary journey through an array of flavors, textures, and spice blends. To find your favorites, consider exploring the renowned spots mentioned, such as A&B Kitchen & Bar and Bleacher Bar.
Their offerings, from crispy fried pickles to spicy beer-battered spears, capture the essence of quality pickling.
Evaluating pickles based on criteria like flavor profile, crunchiness, and freshness ensures a top-notch selection.
Boston’s pickle purveyors, including Citizen Public House & Oyster Bar, maintain high standards by using fresh, high-quality ingredients and unique spice blends.
Enjoying Boston’s pickles to the fullest involves pairing them with foods that enhance their taste. Burgers, sandwiches, charcuterie, and seafood are excellent companions that elevate the overall dining experience.
Lastly, proper pickle storage is crucial for maintaining their quality. Refrigerate them in airtight containers, avoid exposing them to sunlight, and consume them within the recommended time frame for the best flavor and texture.
Timothy Russell Dewart