Boston, a city rich in history and culinary tradition, offers some of the best boiled dinners you’ll ever taste.
From classic New England boiled dinners to unique twists on traditional recipes, Boston’s dining scene has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these hearty, comforting meals are a must-try. In this article, we’ll explore the 11 best boiled dinners in Boston, showcasing the city’s diverse and flavorful offerings.
Get ready to discover mouth-watering dishes that highlight the best of Boston’s culinary creativity and heritage.
So, grab your appetite and let’s dive into Boston’s top spots for boiled dinners, featuring everything from savory corned beef and cabbage to delectable seafood boils.
Ready to explore? Let’s get started!
Top 11 Best Boiled Dinners in Boston
Boiled dinners are a classic New England comfort food, often associated with hearty meals perfect for the colder months. In Boston, several restaurants honor this tradition with delicious interpretations of the dish.
Below are 11 of the top spots to enjoy the best boiled dinners in the city:
1. The Black Rose
The Black Rose stands out for its authentic Irish ambiance and hearty boiled dinners. Located at 160 State St, Boston, this traditional neighborhood tavern offers a welcoming setting filled with live music.
Known for its corned beef dishes, diners rave about the corned beef spring rolls and corned beef sandwiches paired with a glass of Guinness.
Their clam chowder also garners positive reviews. Phil Davis enjoyed the spring rolls, while John Wagner praised the corned beef sandwich.
With dinner options priced between $20–30, patrons can indulge in classic Irish comfort food. Visit The Black Rose from 11 AM onwards to enjoy a true taste of Boston’s best boiled dinners.
2. Mr. Dooley’s Boston
Mr. Dooley’s Boston, a gem at 77 Broad St, offers an authentic Irish pub experience with some of the best boiled dinners in the city. With a rating of 4.5 from 1.6K reviews, it’s clear that visitors love what this place has to offer.
The traditional bar food, combined with live, spur-of-the-moment fiddle sessions, creates a lively atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back.
Their boiled dinners, priced between $10–20 per person, are a standout. Jacob Morris raved about their dishes, mentioning their Irish curry gravy is a must-try.
Kevin Thomas highlighted the excellent clam chowder, and Steve Stringer praised the live music and friendly service. It’s no wonder Mr. Dooley’s remains a favorite for both locals and tourists alike.
Service options include live music, Wi-Fi, and high chairs, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. Visit their website or call (617) 338-5656 for more details and to check wait times.
3. Buttermilk & Bourbon
Buttermilk & Bourbon, located at 160 Commonwealth Ave, offers a New Orleans-inspired dining experience crafted by a renowned local chef.
Priced between $30–50, this Southern restaurant boasts a 4.4-star rating from 2.4K reviews. A highlight here is the innovative boiled peanut hummus, frequently praised. Also, their boiled dinner options like shrimp and grits add to the diverse menu.
Patrons often enjoy the unique boiled peanut hummus and the shrimp and grits, showcasing the chef’s inventive approach.
Their lively lounge, coupled with outdoor seating and high chairs, makes it a welcoming spot for various dining occasions. Reservations are required, and diners can easily book via OpenTable.
4. J.J. Foley’s Cafe
J.J. Foley’s Cafe, an iconic neighborhood pub since 1909, offers a delightful variety of Irish-American eats.
Located at 117 E Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02118, this establishment is praised for its traditional charm and hearty dishes.
Famed for its clam chowder, J.J. Foley’s also offers succulent seafood platters and a must-try French onion soup.
Priced between $10–20 per person, their boiled dinners are both delicious and affordable. The ambiance, complete with TVs and dartboards, makes it a cozy spot for diners.
Reviewers frequently commend the chowder, noting it’s an excellent appetizer to start any meal. For details and reservations, visit jjfoleyscafe.com or call (617) 728-9101.
5. Bootleg Special
Bootleg Special, located at 400 Tremont St, Boston, offers a unique take on Cajun-style seafood boils. Rated 4.3 stars from over 1.2K reviews, this trendy spot serves up dishes with a Southern flair in an industrial-chic setting.
Their signature crab boil with “bootleg sauce” receives rave reviews for its flavor and quality. Patrons like Randy Barney, a local realtor, hail the crab boil as the best they’ve ever had, while others appreciate the vibrant ambiance and excellent service.
Notable additions to their boils include andouille sausage, which adds a rich, smoky flavor. Open from 5 PM, Bootleg Special also serves vegetarian options and provides high chairs, making it family-friendly.
Reservations and online orders can be made through their website for a seamless dining experience.
6. Row 34
Row 34, located at 383 Congress St, offers one of the best boiled dinners in Boston. This stylish brick-and-wood seafood restaurant boasts a 4.6 rating from 3.4K reviews, with dishes priced between $50–100 per person.
Known for its extensive oyster menu and craft beers, the restaurant excels in seafood boils. Their seafood boil features a variety of fresh ingredients including clams, mussels, shrimp, and lobster.
Diners frequently rave about the delicious combination of flavors and perfectly cooked seafood. Sasha Z highlights items like the tuna crudo and cornbread, but she highly recommends the seafood boil.
Row 34 also has notable service options, including outdoor seating and private dining rooms, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Reservations can be made online via their website or OpenTable.
7. James Hook & Co
James Hook & Co is a waterfront gem in Boston known for its exquisite seafood. Located at 440 Atlantic Ave, this shanty-style restaurant offers live lobsters and scrumptious boiled dinners.
With a 4.5-star rating from 3.7K reviews, it’s praised for its delicious lobster rolls and shellfish fare. Reviewers like Jerry Kowalsky commend the quality and taste of the boiled lobsters, highlighting the importance of using a strong heat source to keep a large pot of water boiling.
Alexandre Borrel endorses the lobster roll as the best in Boston despite the high prices. Prices range from $30–50 per person.
The restaurant doesn’t accept reservations but offers outdoor seating and Wi-Fi for a pleasant dining experience. For menu options, visit checkle.menu.
8. Bostonia Public House
Bostonia Public House, located at 131 State St, offers a refined take on New England cuisine. Diners can enjoy a variety of hearty dishes, including their renowned boiled dinners.
The Clam Chowder, praised by reviews as the best they’ve had, is rich and flavorful. Another must-try is the Lobster Mac and Cheese, noted for its generous portions and perfectly cooked lobster.
The setting, with clubby decor and a historic vibe, adds to the dining experience. Prices range from $30–50 per person.
With outdoor seating, private dining options, and a vegetarian-friendly menu, Bostonia Public House accommodates diverse tastes and occasions. For reservations, visit OpenTable or call (617) 948-9800.
9. Union Oyster House
Union Oyster House, founded in 1826, is a historic seafood restaurant in Boston, MA, famous for its traditional New England dishes.
Notable menu items include the perfectly cooked, flavorful Boiled Lobster, the authentic Clam Chowder, and the excellently prepared Steamed Mussels.
The restaurant boasts a historic and charming ambiance, excellent service, and moderately priced meals, making it a popular choice for locals and tourists.
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours, and amenities include outdoor seating and a kids’ menu.
For more information, visit their website or call (617) 227-2750. Next on our list is James Hook & Co., renowned for its fresh and succulent seafood.
Their Boiled Lobster with Melted Butter stands out for its exceptional tenderness and flavor. This family-owned business offers a casual dining experience by the waterfront, with a focus on quality and freshness.
Convenient online ordering and prompt, friendly service make it a must-visit. For details, check their website or contact (617) 423-5501.
10. Saltie Girl
Saltie Girl, positioned at 279 Dartmouth St, offers a seafood-centric dining experience, including famed boiled dinners.
With a 4.4 rating from 3K reviews, this establishment charms with its diverse menu. Seafood options like chilled oysters and lobster Bolognese receive high praise.
Diners love the upscale ambiance, featuring outdoor seating and a private dining room. With prices ranging from $50–100 per person, Saltie Girl ensures a memorable meal.
Available amenities include online reservations through their website, and assistance by calling (617) 267-0691.
Reviewers appreciate the high-quality dishes, noting the kettle one Cosmo and the green salad as standout selections.
11. The Haven
The Haven, located at 284 Amory St in Jamaica Plain, offers a distinct Scottish flair to Boston’s dining scene.
Rated 4.6 stars from 967 reviews, this restaurant excels in traditional Scottish dishes and lesser-known beers.
The ambiance is cozy, with outdoor seating and a fireplace enhancing the experience. Patrons praise their specialties, including their hearty Scottish boiled dinner, featuring neeps and tatties. Priced between $20–30 per person, it’s both affordable and delicious.
With occasional live music and a private dining room available, The Haven is perfect for gatherings. Reservations can be made online via OpenTable, ensuring you can secure a spot in this popular establishment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a boiled dinner?
A boiled dinner is a traditional meal typically consisting of meat (often corned beef or ham), potatoes, carrots, cabbage, and other vegetables, all boiled together in a pot.
Are boiled dinners popular in Boston?
Yes, boiled dinners are quite popular in Boston, reflecting the city’s rich culinary heritage and diverse dining scene. They are especially celebrated in Irish-American communities.
What makes Boston’s boiled dinners unique?
Boston’s boiled dinners are unique due to their blend of traditional and contemporary influences, showcasing a range of classic Irish recipes and innovative dishes inspired by different culinary traditions.
Where can I find a traditional Irish boiled dinner in Boston?
For a traditional Irish boiled dinner, you can visit The Black Rose or Mr. Dooley’s Boston, both known for their authentic Irish ambiance and hearty boiled dinners.
Are there any seafood boiled dinner options in Boston?
Yes, Boston features excellent seafood boiled dinners. Notable spots include Row 34, known for fresh seafood boils, and James Hook & Co., renowned for its boiled lobsters.
Can I find Southern-inspired boiled dinners in Boston?
Yes, Buttermilk & Bourbon offers Southern-inspired boiled dinners with innovative dishes like boiled peanut hummus and shrimp and grits.
Are there any high-end restaurants in Boston serving boiled dinners?
Yes, Bostonia Public House and Saltie Girl offer refined takes on boiled dinners, providing a more upscale dining experience while maintaining hearty flavors.
Conclusion
Boston offers an extraordinary array of boiled dinners, reflecting its rich culinary heritage and vibrant dining scene.
From the traditional Irish comfort food at The Black Rose to the Southern-inspired dishes at Buttermilk & Bourbon, each venue brings something unique to the table.
Seafood enthusiasts can revel in the offerings at Row 34 and James Hook & Co, while those looking for cultural twists will appreciate the flavors at Bootleg Special and The Haven.
Whether it’s a historic ambiance at Union Oyster House or an upscale experience at Saltie Girl, Boston’s best boiled dinners promise hearty flavors and memorable dining experiences for all.
For a taste of innovation, head to Puritan & Co., where classic New England dishes get a modern spin. At Eventide Fenway, you’ll savor boiled dinners that redefine traditional seafood offerings.
Timothy Russell Dewart