Boston is one of the oldest cities in the USA; the strong European influence, rich history and prestigious universities make Boston unique and diverse. The capital of Massachusetts has retained many of its colonial roots from its British founders, making it feel much like home for many British expats.
Boston is well known for their sports and history, but the dining scene is a destination all on its own. Whether you like to sample international cuisine or traditional Bostonian dishes, like their famous clam chowder you’ll find no end of fine eateries to whet your appetite when moving to Boston.
For sushi lovers ‘O Ya’ offers one of the most lauded dining experiences in Boston. Plates are artistically composed by the James Beard Award-winning chef Tim Cushman, into what has been described as edible luxuries. Sommelier Nancy Cushman pairs dishes with selections from a list of world-class sake.
Named number one in Boston Magazines’ list of top 50 best restaurants in Boston, UNI is an izakaya which is a must for any Japanese lover. The menu is renowned for innovative street food-inspired dishes, makimono, nigiri and sashimi. If this isn’t enough, you shouldn’t leave before tasting the cult-followed ramen.

Boston for Meat Lovers

For meat lovers there’s no end to fine steakhouses in Boston. Located in Back Bay, Abe and Louie’s is a Boston institution. Make sure you leave room for at least 2 courses; the mouth-watering appetisers are stunning, particularly the Tuna Tartare or Beef Carpaccio. Then select your prime cuts from 20oz New York strip, grass fed filet mignon or woodfired prime ribeye – you won’t be disappointed.
You can’t make your way around Boston steakhouses without heading to 23 Grill & Bar, Boston Chops or Mooo…add these to your list of places to try. Make sure you take advantage of your expense account at Mooo by indulging in the 6oz, $160 Japanese Wagyu sirloin and the 100-day aged ribeye at 23 Grill & Bar.

Famous Chowder & Seafood

Seafood lovers will be in heaven discovering the ocean delicacies offered around the city. For freshly shucked oysters or warm lobster rolls it’s hard to choose between the Island Creek Oyster Bar, Row 34 or Select Oyster Bar – we suggest you try them all. Steamed mussels, Maine crab cakes and Cape Cod scallops at Island Creek Oyster Bar are especially tasty, whilst the Raw Bar at Row 34 in the Seaport District is exceptional for seafood lovers.
Living in Boston wouldn’t be complete without becoming au fait with their famous clam chowder. For award winning classic chowder head to Ned Devine’s Irish pub in Faneuil Hall. Those who wish to eat their chowder from for an exceptionally large bread bowl should visit Boston Chowda Co. and for a twist on an old classic, the bacon kissed chowder at Saltie Girl in Back Bay is delicious.
Along with fine dining, Boston has an abundance of places to stop for brunch and coffee. You will never run out of new places to dine. If you’re thinking of moving to the USA, Boston has so much to offer, it’s worth it for the food scene alone. For more advice on expat life in Boston, read our guide to the city here.