American restaurants in Boston
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A
Harvest
A Harvard Sq classic. This place is simple but sophisticated, a description that applies to the menu as well as the space. The modern American fare allows for some regional influences, such as the seductive raw bar. Local luminaries, especially Harvard faculty, are often spotted here. Foodies will enjoy Harvest Review ($39), a monthly event that features a four-course dinner, wine pairings and a speaker – usually somebody who caught, killed, produced or prepared some part of the meal.
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B
Locke-Ober
According to an 1883 guide to Boston: ‘The leading French restaurant of the city is Ober’s, on Winter Place… This has more than a local fame. It is most patronized by the possessors of long purses.’ This description still rings true. Many 19th-century artworks and architectural details have survived in the sumptuous dining rooms. Happily, the exclusive men-only policy has not. Reservations required.
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C
Scollay Square
Down the road from the former Scollay Sq, this retro restaurant hearkens back to the glory days of its namesake. Old photos and memorabilia adorn the walls, including a series of burlesque beauties peering out from behind the bar; suits sip martinis to big-band music. The classic American fare is reliably good, while the service – with staff formally dressed in black and white – is excellent.
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D
Union Bar & Grille
Union has transformed a warehouse in trendy SoWa into a cool, comfortable bar and grill, a big light-filled space which retains its postindustrial atmosphere in the steel and brick walls. Sidle up to the bar for your $5 cocktail or sink into a plush leather booth for a delicious dinner. The menu presents traditional American fare with an eye to innovation. Food and service get rave reviews.
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E
Dog Bar
Go around to the rear entrance to sample the eclectic menu and cold drinks at Dog Bar. From the simple (not-so-sloppy joes) to the sophisticated (smoked whiskey shrimp cocktail), just about everything here would be appealing to your dog, who might also appreciate the outdoor seating. There are plans to open an upscale restaurant in the front of the building.
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F
Franklin Café
Once a favorite neighborhood restaurant (and that’s saying something in this restaurant-rich neighborhood), the Franklin has been discovered by outsiders. It’s still friendly and hip – a fantastic spot for people-watching (especially the beautiful boys in the ’hood). The menu is New American comfort food prepared by a gourmet chef: duck pot pie with root vegetables and cranberry jam or oyster mushroom ravioli in sage brown butter. There is a new outlet in South Boston, Franklin Southie.
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G
Lyceum Bar & Grill
This historic building has hosted some of America’s foremost orators in its lecture halls, from Daniel Webster to Henry David Thoreau. Today the elegant dining room is one of Salem’s top dining spots. The New England fare is traditional but not tired, and service is always excellent.
reviewed
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H
Anthem
This sophisticated restaurant exudes a cool, quirky Goth ambiance. The menu is mod, offering upscale comfort food, like mighty meatloaf, tasso (a kind of Cajun ham), mac and four cheeses, and baked-tuna-and-noodle casserole. Reservations recommended on event nights.
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I
Ellen’s Harborside
By the T-wharf in the center of town, Ellen’s has grown famous serving a simple menu of American breakfasts, chicken, ribs and lobster since 1954. You get decent portions, fresh food and low prices. Consider the award-winning clam chowder.
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J
Durgin Park
Known for no-nonsense service and sawdust on the floorboards, Durgin Park hasn’t changed much since the restaurant opened in 1827. Nor has the menu, which features New England standards such as prime rib, fish chowder, chicken pot pie and Boston baked beans, with strawberry shortcake and Indian pudding for dessert. Be prepared to make friends with the other parties seated at your table.
reviewed
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Franklin Southie
The menu is New American comfort food prepared by a gourmet chef: duck pot pie with root vegetables and cranberry jam or oyster mushroom ravioli in sage brown butter at this branch of Franklin, Franklin Southie.
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