Boston is a foodie’s paradise. The fine dining scene here is on point. So if you are looking to impress a special someone, here are five places that will definitely do the trick:
1. Menton
A major player on the Boston restaurant scene is veteran chef Barbara Lynch. And the pinnacle of her local empire is Menton. A posh seaport haunt, Menton, is known for their “Into Evolution” tasting menu, which is an 8-10 course culinary journey. What separates Menton from other hotspots in the city is the level of creativity that goes into the presentation of each dish. For example, when I last dined there, “Into Evolution” started with two “salad baskets." The salad baskets were tiny little cracker cups with perfectly dressed micro greens that you ate in one bite. Dining here is truly an indulgence so I recommend skipping lunch the day you go in for dinner!
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2. Craigie on Main
For all you Cambridge dwellers, Craigie on Main is the place for you. Located in Kendall Square, Craigie on Main is the Cambridge foodie’s dream. To dine like an insider, you have to sit at the chef’s counter. You and your date will have a front row seat to all the action in the kitchen. Also, Craigie’s tasting menu has conservatively sized portions, so you will be able to make it all the way to the end without needing to loosen your belt. (Skipping lunch is not needed here!)
3. Top of the Hub
Some underestimate the Top of the Hub, calling it a tourist attraction rather than a local destination. And that is certainly not true; the Top of the Hub is popular because it is a classic! The views are the best in town and the food is top notch! But what truly impresses here is the service, if you are looking for a wining and dining type of evening with a romantic sunset on the side; Top of the Hub is for you. Insider tip: you have to do the wine pairings — they are always superb!
4. O Ya
A night out at O Ya will certainly earn you some brownie points if you are dating a foodie because this place wins the best-food-for-cool-kids award. It has all the qualities of an A-list evening: an in-the-know vibe, immaculate menu and an intimate atmosphere. The ultimate experience is the Grand Omakase Menu, which is a 20-course masterpiece. But ordering a la carte will not disappoint either.
5. L’Espalier
My personal go-to for a fancy night out is L’Espalier. L’Espalier is the standard bearer for fine dining in Boston. Chef Frank McClelland runs a tight ship; L’Espalier has been at the top of the fine dining scene here since 1978. Here quiet refinement is the name of the game. Simple, streamlined décor, beautifully prepared food and perfect service will impress even the fussiest of guests. Oh and I have to mention the cheese cart, consistently ranked #1 in cheese by magazines all over the country, you have to make sure your meal includes the “Grand Fromage”.
