With the end of summer comes a slew of new dining destinations in Boston. Our editors rounded up the hottest ones to try now.
Savor Matria’s white bolognese rigatoni with rabbit, guanciale, parmesan and oregano.
Matria
Enjoy stunning views of the Fort Point Channel while tasting exceptional cuts of meat, vibrant vegetables and fragrant truffles at the summer arrival, Matria (matriaboston.com). Located on the first floor of InterContinental Boston, this indoor-outdoor Italian steakhouse draws inspiration from northern Italy’s Piedmont region. Authentic and contemporary details grace the space, such as brass and glass chandeliers, softwoods and warm natural lighting accented by a marble-clad wall. Savor lunch classics like the seafood tagliatelle or the eggplant Milanese for a hearty dinner.
Bar Fellini
Those who dream of enjoying an aperitivo in Italy can satisfy their cravings at Bar Fellini (felliniboston.com) in InterContinental Boston. The 1960s Italian-themed cocktail lounge is inspired by Italian film director Federico Fellini, who is celebrated for his distinctive blend of fantasy, architecture and music. Exuding glamour and elegance, this timeless bar, which opened in June, offers a “Mad-Men-esque” experience. Enjoy small bites from Matria, such as caponata and short rib arancini served aperitivo style. Pair each bite with housemade cocktails dominated by the Italian classics—the negroni, martini and spritz.
barks like the milk chocolate almond bark are a must-try.
Cacao, Chocolate Bar & Cafe
Calling all chocolate lovers: satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to the June addition—Cacao, Chocolate Bar & Cafe (cacaonuts.com)—in the South End. Co-founder Perla Rosario’s appreciation for her Dominican culture and heritage is represented in the vast array of delectable chocolate bites and nuts. Snack on the dark chocolate chipotle almonds for a sweet and spicy fusion or the dulce de leche truffles while sipping their hot chocolate.
Le Mari Restaurant
Transport yourself to the Mediterranean with a visit to Newbury’s Le Mari (lemarirestaurantboston.com). With both indoor and outdoor seating, the July arrival blends a graceful and elegant interior with turquoise and gold hues throughout. Foodies will think they’ve died and gone to heaven with exquisite cuisine by chef Leigh Whittaker, such as the duck fat gaufrettes with shallot aioli, caviar and tarroco dust, or the lion’s mane with butterbean puree, Marrakesh and garbanzo.
The Loyall Counting Room
Looking for a night of revelry? This new speakeasy beckons. Tucked away from the bustling InterContinental Boston lies the Loyall Counting Room (loyallboston.com), a hideaway that seats an exclusive 25 guests. Taking its name from the Loyall Nine and Sons of Liberty, this summer arrival represents Boston’s reputation for hosting free-thinkers and rebels. Transport back into the colonial era amid dark wood, flickering candlelight and a secret code word for entry, all while enjoying specialty cocktails crafted with ingredients like applejack and no sherry.
PopUp Bagels is revered for its steaming hot bagels with a crispy exterior.
PopUp Bagels
Every bagel lover has heard of New York City’s PopUp Bagels (popupbagels.com)—and the lengthy queue each location garners daily. This month, Bostonians can indulge in its steaming, made-to-order bagels and flufly shmears with the opening of their Seaport shop. In addition to the classics, PopUp Bagels offers two specialty shmears each week. From sesame to everything bagels, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Sushi @ Temple Records
Indulge in a sushi night out at Sushi @ Temple Records (@sushiattemplerecords). Located beneath the Temple Records bar, this BCB3-operated spot houses a 22-seat subterranean sushi den accentuated with authentic Hinoki wood imported from Japan. With 200-year-old beams across the ceiling and a granite foundation, the space combines a historic feel with modern-day sushi crafting. Serving nigiri, moriawase, sashimi and makimono, this subtle joint captivates customers’ eyes and taste buds.
Photography by: BRIAN SAMUELS PHOTOGRAPHY; COURTESY OF BRAND; JEN GOLDBERG
