Fall is Boston’s best dining season. The patios give way to candlelit dining rooms, the menus turn richer and a handful of exciting new openings are giving the city plenty to talk about. These are the nine restaurants I am telling everyone to book right now, from the newest arrivals to the classics that never miss.
1. Hawksmoor, Fort Point
London’s celebrated steakhouse has arrived in Fort Point, and yes, come hungry. Perfectly cooked steaks, indulgent sides and cocktails that deserve their own moment make this the kind of dinner that turns into a whole evening. The space feels grand without being stuffy, and the menu is basically an excuse to order one more thing for the table.
2. Jūni, Quincy
Twelve courses. Twelve seats. Jūni is Chef Chris Chung’s new modern Japanese-inspired concept in Quincy, and it is one of the most exciting dining experiences in Greater Boston. Known for his work at Uni and the acclaimed Momi Nonmi, Chung pairs exceptional seafood and seasonal ingredients with refined technique, but in a way that feels interactive, playful and approachable. With only 12 seats, reservations are essential.
3. Rochambeau, Back Bay
Rochambeau, the French café and brasserie on Boylston Street, is Back Bay at its most charming. Come in the afternoon for French-inspired bites and a cocktail, or settle in for a long dinner. It is the easy, elegant answer when you want a table with real atmosphere in the heart of the city.
4. Dalia, South Boston
The hottest reservation in town right now. Dalia, from the Broadway Restaurant Group, has quickly become the South Boston table everyone is trying to land.
5. Kaia, South End
A little South End hidden gem with an intimate patio, beautiful plates, great wine and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to linger. If you are looking for a new date-night spot that feels a little off the beaten path, add Kaia to your list.
6. Bistro du Midi, Back Bay
The tasting menu at Bistro du Midi is a standout, and fall is the perfect season for it. Overlooking the Public Garden, it remains one of the most elegant dinners in the city.
7. Maple & Ash, Seaport
Just as glam as promised. From the cocktails to the steakhouse classics, Maple & Ash is pure date-night, let’s-order-everything energy. Boston, this one is a scene in the best way.
8. Mamma Maria, North End
Handmade pasta, a glass of wine and that North End charm that never gets old. Mamma Maria is the classic Boston Italian dinner, and it is just as lovely when the weather turns cool.
Italian restaurants along Hanover Street in the North End, home of Mamma Maria.
(zimmytws via Getty Images)9. Standard Italian
This is where the cool girls are in Boston. Standard Italian has the energy, the pasta and the crowd, and it is where I would send anyone looking for a fun night out.
Know Before You Go
Newest openings: Hawksmoor in Fort Point and Jūni in Quincy
Hardest tables: Jūni (12 seats) and Dalia
Best for date night: Kaia, Rochambeau and Maple & Ash
Best classic: Mamma Maria in the North End
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