10 Iconic Boston Foods
1. Boston Cream Pie: Parker’s Restaurant
Few cities are as closely tied to a dessert as Boston is to its famous cream pie. Created in 1856 at the Parker House, now the Omni Parker House, this delicious treat is still served in its original form at the restaurant nearly 160 years later. Technically a cake rather than a pie, this chocolate-topped golden cake filled with pastry cream can even be delivered to your home anywhere in the country.
2. Fenway Frank: Fenway Park
No visit to Boston is complete without indulging in a Fenway Frank. These iconic hot dogs have been a staple at Fenway Park since 1953, making them an essential part of the Boston Red Sox experience. Made by the renowned Kayem brand, Fenway Franks are known for their delicious, beefy flavor and perfectly balanced seasoning.
3. Boston Baked Beans: Durgin-Park Restaurant
There’s a reason Boston is known as Beantown! Opened in 1827, Durgin-Park Restaurant serves classic New England tavern food, including their famous baked beans, cooked with salt pork and onions. The beans are soaked overnight to keep them moist and then slow-cooked in an authentic Durgin-Park bean pot for that uniquely old-fashioned flavor.
4. New England Clam Chowder: Legal Sea Foods
The gold standard of New England clam chowder, Legal Sea Foods has been serving their classic recipe at U.S. presidential inaugurations since Ronald Reagan’s in 1981. With locations throughout the city and at many terminals in Logan Airport, it’s easy to enjoy this iconic dish.
5. Cannoli: Mike’s Pastries
When it comes to Boston’s iconic sweets, you can’t miss the cannoli from Mike’s Pastry in the North End. A fixture in Boston’s lively Italian neighborhood since 1946, Mike’s Pastry is renowned for its delicious cannoli. These treats feature crisp, perfectly fried shells filled with a rich, creamy blend of ricotta cheese, often with hints of citrus or chocolate.
6. Samuel Adams Beer: Cheers
Norm and Cliff may no longer be regulars, but you can still stop in for a cold one! Founded in 1969 as the Bull & Finch Pub, Cheers is the bar that inspired the hit TV series.
7. Boston Kreme Donut: Dunkin’ Donuts
You don’t need to look far for a Dunkin’ Donuts in Boston—there’s one on almost every street corner. Their delicious Boston Kreme Donut pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee!
8. Parker House Rolls: Parker’s Restaurant
When it comes to iconic Boston foods, Parker House Rolls hold a special place in the city’s culinary history. These soft, buttery rolls were first created in the 1870s at the Parker House Hotel, now known as the Omni Parker House, located in the heart of Boston. The rolls are celebrated for their slightly sweet flavor, tender crumb, and distinctive folded shape, making them a favorite at dinner tables across America.
9. Fish & Chips: The Daily Catch
Fish and Chips might originate from the UK, but Boston puts its own spin on it with fresh Atlantic cod or haddock in a light, crispy batter. Served with thick-cut fries and tartar sauce or malt vinegar, this dish highlights the cities’ maritime heritage. The Daily Catch in the North End and Seaport District excels with its Sicilian-style twist, offering crispy, golden cod paired with tender, flaky fish and hearty fries.
10. Oysters: Neptune Oyster
When it comes to enjoying oysters in Boston, Neptune Oyster in the North End stands out. Oysters are a classic part of Boston’s seafood tradition, deeply rooted in the city’s maritime heritage. At Neptune Oyster, you can savor a range of fresh, local oysters known for their briny, clean taste. The cozy and intimate atmosphere adds to the experience, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a seasoned oyster lover or new to the scene, Neptune Oyster offers a top-notch taste of Boston’s seafood tradition.
Savoring the Essence of Boston
Boston’s culinary landscape is as rich and storied as the city itself, offering a delicious blend of tradition and innovation. From classic Boston Baked Beans at historic taverns to the iconic Boston Cream Pie at its birthplace, the city’s food scene reflects its vibrant culture and history. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of clam chowder, sipping a Samuel Adams at Cheers, or grabbing a Boston Kreme Donut from Dunkin’, each bite is a taste of Boston’s unique charm. So, as you explore the city, make sure to savor these iconic foods that truly define the Boston experience.