In the immediate area 

Immediately to the right, attached to the Convention Center by a footbridge, you will find M.J. O'Connor's. It has a classic pub-like atmosphere, with New England staples like fish and chips, great wings, and award-winning clam chowder.

Located behind the Westin on the corner of D Street and Fargo at 451 D Street, you will find the Fargo Deli in the building lobby. A classic deli featuring great breakfast sandwiches and lunch options. I tend to get the western omelet or Reuben—both are amazing.

Across the street from the Convention Center is the Omni Hotel. The lobby features several food options, including Coquette/Cocrico for amazing breakfast sandwiches and fresh-baked French pastries. You will also find Crescendo, the lobby bar, which by far has one of the best Old Fashioneds I have ever had. At the end of the lobby is The Sporting Club, which pays homage to Boston's many championship sports teams. Some of my go-tos are the Paisano Meatballs, Chilled Oysters, and the Pork and Chive Dumplings created by local restaurateur Dumpling Daughter.

The Seaport Staples Upscale and Waterfront

Impressive dining experiences featuring incredible water views and world-class menus 

Row 34, (383 Congress Street, Fort Point) $$$

Occupying what was once a textile mill, the vibe is industrial chic. Here you will find items like huge lobster ("lobsta") rolls served on fresh, buttery buns, amazing oysters, and crispy fish tacos.

Ocean Prime (140 Seaport Blvd.)$$$$

The vibe is a high-end steak-and-seafood experience with stunning waterfront views. Highlights include local favorites like Point Judith Calamari, lobster, and a customizable "Smoking" Seafood Tower.

 Legal Sea Foods Harborside (270 Northern Ave.)$$

A massive three-floor flagship location with 180-degree waterfront views; any closer and you would literally be swimming with the fishes. This is the go-to spot for world-famous clam chowder. Head up to the third floor for sushi and cocktails on the outdoor deck.

Moo... (49 Melcher Street)$$$$

A sophisticated, high-end steakhouse that elevates Boston dining with a classic aesthetic. Must-try items include the Wagyu dumplings, roasted bone marrow, and the absolutely massive 24 oz. dry-aged porterhouse. Be sure to save room for my personal favorite: the warm milk and cookies.

Maple & Ash (131Seaport Blvd.)$$$$

An innovative, high-energy take on the traditional steakhouse. You will definitely feel the vibe of the New Seaport while you dine on favorites such as the wood-fired seafood tower, Chicken Milanese, and New York strip. Be sure to leave room for their crème brûlée.

Bambola / The Girl Next Door (225 Northern Ave)$$$

A cross between a classic Italian supper club and a glitzy lounge. You will find classic dishes such as Cacio e Pepe, Margherita pizza, and Chicken Saltimbocca. Be sure to leave room for the tiramisu at The Girl Next Door.

The Smoke Shop BBQ (343 Congress Street)$$$

One of Boston's most beloved chefs, Andy Husbands, brings 20-plus years in the competitive BBQ scene to the Seaport. I first happened by this place by complete accident—I was looking for cigars and figured that with a name like Smoke Shop, I'd hit a home run. My disappointment quickly waned when I found two of my favorite dining combinations, BBQ and bourbon, which should have been the name all along. The Buffalo fried ribs make a great appetizer, and the beef brisket will do you right.

Quick Bites and  Fast Casual Dining

Triilum Brewery 50 Thompson Place $$

A sprawling, multi-level taproom in the heart of the Fort Point area. With a huge list of New England IPAs and wood-fired pizzas, you can't go wrong.

Bartaco (25 Thompson Place)$$

With a vibrant coastal atmosphere, it's the perfect place for a quick bite. On my last visit, I sampled the Baja fish, Mojo pork carnitas, and sesame beef tacos—all amazing. And let's not forget the fresh-squeezed margaritas.

Boqueria Tapas (25 Thompson Place)$$

Occupying the same building as Bartaco, Boqueria is an amazing tapas spot with a robust wine selection that pairs brilliantly with their cheese and charcuterie. Be sure to try the Manchego cheese paired with the best Jamón Serrano you have ever had.

‍ ‍Lucky's Lounge (355 Congress Street)$$

Packed with vintage character, this Sinatra-esque dive bar is just the ticket for those who want a bit of fun after a long day going from one seminar to another.  Enjoy items like their Fried Chicken Sliders, Pork Bao Buns, and the always classic Smash Burger. Be sure to try their Speakeasy-inspired cocktails such as The Retro Revival or Pink Whisper. 

Cardullo’s Market (99 Seaport Blvd)$$

The seaport outpost of a classic Harvard Square grocer. They specialize in artisan sandwiches and gourmet snacks. Perfect after a long day of seminars and breakouts. They have an amazing selection of wine and spirits.

Food Halls & Market Vibes

Can't decide? These spots offer endless variety and artisan local treats.

‍ Boston's Food Halls

For something a little different, Boston has recently opened three Food Halls (think of an adult food court) where local chefs can showcase their most popular dishes.  

1. Time Out Market (401 Park Drive) Just steps from Fenway Park. You’ll find places like Anoush'ella, which serves some of the best Mediterranean food I have ever had. If sushi is more your thing, try Gogo Ya—they have excellent Bento Bowls and my favorite: crispy nori sushi tacos.  Cussers: roast beef and seafood. Be sure to ask for the Roast beef 3-way. Wrap up your amazing meal with Far Out Icecream; they have a Kookaberry flavor that’s next level.  Or Union Square Donuts.  You haven't lived until you have had a Maple-Glazed doughnut with real bacon on top.

2. Hub Hall (80 Causeway St.): If you are near the Boston Garden (Gahdin), try Hub Hall. You'll find a wide variety of local flavors, such as Hencraft's amazing fried chicken, Greco's authentic Greek cuisine, and Poe Lenta's reimagined Italian comfort food.  You'll also find Iron Chef's Momosan for sushi and ramen.  

3. High Street Place (100 High St.): A newcomer to the food hall scene. Check out Dive Bar Seafood, where I recently had their fish and chips served with something called suppa (dinner in Boston) fries. Trust me, they are a must-get. Also, Tenderoni’s Pizza has slices like the Chickie Boom.  

4. Boston Public Market(100 Hanover St.) Modeled after Seattle’s Pike Place, BPM offers a wide variety of food and gifts by local artisans. Red's Best, a fish market with amazing fried seafood and fresh shucked oysters. Beantown Pastrami, which serves some of the best pastrami and rubens I have ever had. The Popover Lady: You haven't lived until you have had a BLT in a fresh-baked popover. And my favorite for a fall-time classic all year round: Red Apple Farms. Apple cider doughnuts are amazing. Curio Spice Company offers a wide variety of custom blended spices and teas. If you are looking for a unique souvenir, Peterman’s offers hand-crafted cutting boards and serving bowls, which make a perfect gift or something special to take home as a remembrance of your amazing time here in Boston.

If you happen to be visiting our other Convention Center, known as the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center, here are some of my favorites.

Just a short walk away, around the Boylston St. entrance

Capital Grille (900 Boylston St.)$$$

Located just outside and to the left of the main entrance. Here you’ll find a classic steakhouse with a vast array of steaks, chops, and seafood. The impressive wine list and a solid cocktail program make this a must-try. (Pro-tip: If you ask for Chris, the manager, tell him John from the Hynes sent you—he will take diligent care of you.) 

Rochambeau (900 Boylston St.)$$

To the immediate right, you'll find Rochambeau, a classic French bistro serving up a fantastic Sunday brunch. They excel at the fundamentals—fresh-baked baguettes, steak frites, and incredible French onion soup. For lunch or dinner, the Pan-Roasted Chicken and Cobb salad are fantastic choices.

Just across from the Hynes, you have several great options.

A.T. Okeefes (911 Boylston St.)$$

Housed in the historic spot that was once McGreevy’s (America’s oldest sports bar), A.T. O'Keeffe's serves up hearty pub classics. You can't go wrong with their Pub-Style Fish and Chips, Truffle Mac and Cheese, or Buffalo Wings. Plus, their take on an Italian Beef sandwich is a must-try for any fan of The Bear.

Back Bay Social Club, The Retro Room (867 Boylston St.)$$

A Boylston staple since 2010, Back Bay Social Club offers crowd-pleasers like burgers, wings, and fresh seafood, plus half-price appetizers Monday through Thursday at the bar. Don't miss their newly opened Retro Room—a vinyl-inspired hideaway serving craft cocktails like Purple Rain and Welcome to the Jungle alongside bites like Mini Kobe Franks and Glazed Sweet Chili Garlic Ribs.

First Watch (777 Boylston St.)$$

Whether you're looking for a healthy start or pure indulgence (hello, Million Dollar Bacon and fresh-baked biscuits), First Watch has you covered. Go hearty with Farm Stand Tacos or Farm House Hash, or keep it light with Avocado Toast or the Sweet Honey Pecan Salad. You can't go wrong either way.

Swingers Golf (777 Boylston St.)$$

Swingers is an indoor mini golf/arcade that’s fun for the whole family or a corporate outing. They feature Back Bay-crafted cocktails such as the Buzzards Bay Mule, Masshole in One, or my favorite, The Southie Sip Old Fashioned. They have an amazing, unparalleled spirits list. The food menu is mostly bar bites, handhelds, and pizza. If you do go there, please do not make the same mistake that I did when they first opened and walk in wearing puka shells and a Nehru asking people what's their sign. It's not that kind of swingers' place.

Atlantic Fish (761 Boylston St.)$$$$

For top-tier seafood in Back Bay, hit Atlantic Fish. From crispy calamari and tuna tartare to classic Maine lobster and filet mignon, every dish delivers. Pro tip: pair your meal with one of the best Espresso Martinis around.

Abe and Louie’s (793 Boylston St.) $$$$

The benchmark for classic New England steakhouse dining. Known for their prime dry-aged steaks, massive bone-in ribeyes, fresh local seafood, and an exceptional wine list. Don't skip the shrimp cocktail or their iconic skillet cornbread to start.

Cactus Club Cafe (500 Boylston St)$$$

Somewhat further down Boylston St., you’ll find Cactus Club Cafe, bringing elevated dining to everyday Boston. On my most recent visit, I tried their bacon cheddar burger—easily one of the best burgers I've had in a while. With amazing shareables, steaks, and cocktails, this spot is a must-try.

Sometimes after a long day of meetings and seminars, especially if the weather isn't cooperating (after all, this is New England), you might just want to stay inside the mall. Fear not, I have you covered.

Shake Shack Standard burgers, fries, and shakes.$

Clover Food Lab To the right is this local place, perfect for vegetarians or vegans (they have great falafel and hummus). Remember to try their homemade sodas.$

Sweetgreen Specializing in salad bowls with fresh vegetables, salmon, and chicken.$

Eataly: Further in the mall is Eataly, an Italian specialty market with freshly baked pastries and sandwiches.$$

The Food Court: Just to the right of Eataly, a small food court with something for every palate.

Anna's Taqueria (a local chain with authentic Mexican fare) $

Cava (known for its rice bowls—try the jasmine rice with spicy lamb meatballs).$

CeCarré Pizza: They have some of the best gourmet thin-crust pizza I have ever had. I will 100% deny the following statement, but their Hawaiian pizza is amazing.$

Wagamama: A casual restaurant with communal benches serving Asian dishes in a Japanese-style setting. Try their Tokyo Fries!$$

Earls: A hip-vibe gastropub where I recently had their fantastic Street Corn Avocado Dip.$$$

More Staples: You will also find California Pizza Kitchen, Cheesecake Factory, and my go-to, Pressed Cafe. They serve breakfast all day (the L.A. Steak and egg is a must-try), and they even have a private meeting room available

Gloucester Street Selections (Located directly across the street.)

Select Oyster Bar (50 Gloucester St.)$$$

Led by Chef Michael Serpa, Select Oyster Bar is an award-winning local seafood spot operating under the motto: “The first man gets the oyster, the second man gets the shell.” Standout menu items include the Yellowtail Hamachi Crudo, Avocado Toast, and Maine Lobster Salad—and, as the name promises, an exceptional selection of fresh oysters. Be sure to try their sister restaurant on Newbury St., Little Whale.

Krasi (48 Gloucester St.)$$$

First and foremost a wine bar, Krasi pays homage to regional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. Guided by Executive Chef Jerry Pabla and Chef Partner Theo Tsilipanos, the menu takes you on a tour across Greece. Don't miss the prasokreatopita (pork shoulder with leeks and feta), and for the table, you can’t go wrong with the Tableside Tzatziki.

Bar Pallino (Public Alley 442)$$

Directly across from Krasi down the alley, keep an eye out for a giant neon sign reading WINE (featured with what looks like an upside-down M). Bar Pallino is a moody basement wine bar serving craft cocktails and standout bar bites—the Tuna Crudo, Grandma Bread, and Burrata are guaranteed to hit the spot.

Casa Romero (30 Gloucester St)$$$

Nestled in the heart of Boston, Casa Romero has been a cherished culinary gem since opening in 1972—born out of a passion for authentic Mexican cooking. Signature dishes like the Tilapia en Mole Verde, Ahi Tuna, and Huarache de Res pair perfectly with their amazing tequila list, transporting you straight to Old Mexico.

Newbury Street Highlights

An absolute go-to for trendy shops and restaurants, Newbury Street has something for everyone. Here are just a few of my go-tos.

Trident Booksellers & Cafe(338 Newburt St.) $$

To the left of Gloucester at the end of Newbury St., you will find one of the last independent bookstores left. Inside is an amazing cafe with a fantastic menu. I always start with their cheese-stuffed jumbo tater tots, then go for either the French toast or the Monte Cristo sandwich.

Bangkok Bento(272 Newbury St.) $$

Just off Gloucester and Newbury, this spot specializes in traditional Thai and Japanese dishes. You can't go wrong with their pork dumplings, and their authentic Thai curry is next level.

DeLuca's Market(239 Newbury St.) $$

A little further down Newbury, you will find an old-school Boston stalwart. This is as traditional as it gets, with a wide variety of specialty foods, gourmet chocolates, and great deli sandwiches.

Union Park Pizza (244 Newbury St.)$

Hands down one of the best slices in the neighborhood. Their scratch-made dough is infused with garlic oil, fresh herbs, and aged parmesan for incredible flavor. Grab a cheese or veggie slice on the go, or order a whole pie for the group.

The Capital Burger (159 Newbury St.) $$

Sister to The Capital Grille, Capital Burger offers a lighter, scaled-down menu with items like poke nachos, red chili-glazed wings, and their signature Capital Burger. It checks all the boxes.

Lobstah On A Roll (254 Newbury St.)$$

Whenever I'm in the mood for the freshest seafood around at a great price, this is my spot. It’s a basic, no-frills casual restaurant with something for everyone. Be sure to check out the fried oyster basket, fried clams, or, as the name suggests, their signature lobster roll.

Dalton Street and Beyond

Take a right past The Capital Grille onto Dalton Street to discover a few truly one-of-a-kind hidden gems.

Bukowski Tavern (50 Dalton St)$

If the great Sidney Lumet (Serpico, Q&A, Dog Day Afternoon) ever opened a bar, this would be it. Capturing the gritty realism of its namesake author, Charles Bukowski, it's a straight-up dive bar with amazing burgers, chicken, and hot dogs. With appetizers like "White Trash" poutine tots and fried pickles, it's a must-try.

El Barco (50 Dalton St.)$$

What started as a pop-up replacing the Summer Shack after the passing of its beloved owner and celebrity Chef, Jasper White, El Barco is now a neighborhood mainstay. They have some of the best fish tacos I have ever had, and they even have a pick-your-own salsa bar with heat ranging from mild to "these peppers were harvested in the darkest depths of Mordor”. They have an amazing selection of Margaritas from the traditional to prickly pear.   

Flour Bakery (30 Dalton St.)$$

Owned by James Beard Award-winning cookbook author and restaurateur Joanne Chang, this beloved spot features an amazing selection of sandwiches and pastries. If you go, try the famous roast beef sandwich, house-made raspberry seltzer, and their house-made take on an Oreo.

Next stop: my absolute favorite neighborhood in Boston—the North End (Little Italy). Whenever people ask me where to go for an authentic Italian meal, I recommend these local spots.

Trattoria Il Panino (280 Hanover St.)$$$

.Boston's first original trattoria serves all of its incredible pasta right in the pan it was cooked in. Start with the crispy fried zucchini flowers before diving into their classic Cacio e Pepe fresh, homemade pasta tossed with Parmigiano and cracked black pepper.

Neptune Oyster‍ ‍(63 Salem St.)$$$

Start with the Wellfleet clam chowder, Spanish octopus, or my absolute favorite, the Razor Clams Casino. Then try the Acadian redfish and chips, Georges Bank sea scallops, or their amazing crudo options like the Golden Sea Bream.

Giacomo’s (355 Hanover St.)$$$

In the heart of Boston's North End, Giacomo’s elevates your dining experience. Start with the Fried Mozzarella Marinara, Eggplant Rollatini, or Bruschetta, then move on to Swordfish Steak, Chicken Marsala, or the absolute best Lobster Ravioli you have ever had.

Brico (241 Hanover St.)Bricco Panetteria Bricco Salumeria & Pasta Shop‍ ‍$$$

If you’re looking to treat yourself, head over to Brico, owned by local restaurant mogul Frank DePasquale. Grab a seat at the bar and kick things off with their famous Espresso Martini (or a glass from their massive wine list), alongside house-made arancini or Zucchini Flowers. For the main event, you can’t go wrong with the Spinach Fettuccine, Chilean Sea Bass, or Veal Ossobuco—though if you’re craving steak, the 12 oz Prime Filet Mignon is top-notch. Just save a little room at the end for their Crème Brûlée or homemade Gelato. After your amazing meal, stop by Bricco Panetteria or the Bricco Salumeria & Pasta Shop for an extra treat.

The Great Pastry Debate:

I could send you to either Mike's Pastry or Modern Pastry for dessert, but that’s like going to Pat's or Geno's for steak and cheese (sorry, Philly). While both are good, I promised to send you where the locals go: Bova's. They have the best cannoli in Boston, and for the love of God, try their sfogliatelle (just say "squiga-telle"—they’ll know what you mean).

Bovas (134 Salem St.)$

Family-owned and operated since 1926. Bovas is the premier bakery in Boston's North End; Boavs is the premier place to go after dinner for dessert and a nice cappuccino. Open 24 hours a day

The Speakeasy Experience

Boston has an incredible hidden bar scene that makes putting together a speakeasy guide a lot of fun. To help build out your guide, here is a curated look at some of the city's best secretive spots, blending hidden entryways with top-tier cocktail programs:

Bogies Place (21 Temple Pl.)$$$

Hidden right inside J.M. Curley’s (a nod to one of Boston’s most infamous mayors), Bogies Place is a true local gem. I like to kick things off here with their signature Bone Marrow Au Gratin or a rich French Onion Soup. From there, you really can’t go wrong with either the Ribeye or the Porterhouse—both come draped in a fantastic house-made demi-glace. Grab a side of mac and cheese to share, and pair it with one of their stellar Cabernets or a classic Bordeaux.

Off Suit (5 Utica St.)$$

Tucked away on Utica Street, Off Suit is another fantastic hidden spot. Grab an order of blistered shishito peppers, their house burger, or the crispy duck to snack on while you browse the drinks. Their cocktail menu is split into two vibes: "Sip Me Slowly," featuring smooth, lingering drinks like the Glass Orchid, Impossible Odds, and Tuxedo Connection; or "Kill Me Quickly," if you're in the mood for something direct like the Cash Only, Switchblade, or Stolen Lighter.

Zebra Room (4Winter Pl.)$$$

Tucked away behind one of several secret bookcases (I’m not telling which one!) inside Yvonne’s—one of Boston’s swankiest spots, located in the historic former Locke-Ober space—you’ll find the Zebra Room. I like to kick things off at their incredible raw bar with shrimp cocktail, East Coast oysters, and caviar. From there, you really can’t go wrong with the French dip, rack of lamb, or crab-crusted halibut. Wash it all down with a classic Dirty Martini, or treat yourself to my personal favorite: the Fat Cap Manhattan.

Hecate (48 Gloucester St.)$$$

Hidden away underground right beneath Krasi, this witchcraft-and-magic-themed lounge offers a dramatic, low-lit sanctuary. I like to kick things off here by diving into their deeply creative, potion-like craft cocktails. The vibe is mysterious and intimate, making it the perfect spot to escape the Back Bay hustle and explore wildly unique flavor profiles.

The Wig Shop (27 Temple Pl.)$$

Located right in the heart of Downtown, you literally enter through what looks like a vintage wig shop before stepping into a dark, intimate lounge. It’s famous for playful, inventive cocktails and interactive experiences like their traditional absinthe service. Grab a seat, take in the theatrical entry, and let the bartenders guide you through a truly one-of-a-kind drink menu.

The Blind Duck (40 Trinity Pl.)$$$$

Perched discreetly as an upscale, hidden-escape lounge inside Raffles Boston, this high-end spot gives you a sophisticated speakeasy vibe with sweeping views above the city. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a long day of meetings with a top-tier cocktail in hand, surrounded by sleek, modern elegance.

Next Door (103 Porter St.)$$

Tucked away behind majestic gilded curtains in East Boston, this neighborhood hideaway features a strict "dress to impress" ambiance and hyper-creative mixology. If you're looking to venture slightly off the beaten path for stunning presentation and exceptional craft drinks, this is a must-visit addition to your itinerary.

Wink & Nod (3 Appleton St.) $$$$

Marked only by a discreet plaque and a dapper doorman in the South End, Wink & Nod embodies the true spirit of a classic speakeasy with a modern flair. I love heading down the stairs into their moody, subterranean lounge for an incredible selection of Scotch and craft cocktails, paired with an ever-changing culinary incubator program that keeps the menu fresh and exciting.