Not only is Boston the capital of Massachusetts, but home to over 20 official neighborhoods and numerous subdistricts. Each neighborhood has its very own identity that makes it different from its nearby counterparts. After living in Boston over the past few years, I noticed that some of the city’s gems are often over. Here are the most underrated neighborhoods to visit in Boston.
The Most Underrated Neighborhoods to Visit in Boston
1. Davis Square
Easily accessible via the Red Line MBTA stop, Davis Square is known for its eclectic food scene. If you’re on an early morning stroll, stop at Rosebud American Kitchen & Bar for a scrumptious brunch or next door at Davis Square Hand-Crafted Donuts & Bagels for a quick bite.
If you’re in the mood to shop, join the crowds of Tufts students at Goodwill and Buffalo Exchange to find cute bargain buys on a budget. Window shopping? Make sure to stop by Comicazi to browse their collection of comic books and games.
And don’t forget date night at DAKZEN, voted one of the best restaurants in Boston. Their low-key Thai street food and intimate setting make it the perfect spot for you to enjoy with your partner. Note: Reservations not accepted.
2. Chinatown
A few minutes from Boston Common’s infamous swan boat rides, sits Boston’s very own Chinatown. The neighborhood borders one of the city’s primary shopping districts, Downtown Crossing.
Check out Chinatown if you’re curious about traditional Asian cuisine, like Hei La Moon Restaurant or Winsor Dim Sum Cafe, or fusion food options like Shojo or Double Chin Modern Asian. Not craving a full meal? Don’t worry, Juicy Spot Café is the place to go for rolled ice cream.
And don’t forget to snap some pics at Chinatown Gate! Here, locals gather to play mahjong, and at the other murals that decorate the neighborhood.
3. Coolidge Corner
If you’re in the mood for some shopping or people-watching, Coolidge Corner is the place to go. Known as one of the most expensive real estate options in the city, the neighborhood is full of brick buildings, festive foliage, and cute stores.
For creatives, there’s the Clayroom, a pottery painting store where you can decorate things like your own vase, mug, or jewelry dish. Visit Coolidge Corner’s premiere alternative cinema, the Coolidge Corner Theatre, to catch the latest foreign film. Check out Brookline Booksmith for literary indulgences or to find the perfect quirky present for your friend that has everything. When you start to get hungry, make your over to the Shaking Crab for an epic crawfish boil (they also have carry-out drinks!).
4. Beacon Hill
One of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston, Beacon Hill boasts its close proximity to the Boston Common and the Charles River Esplanade alike.
If you’re looking to put together a picnic, visit DeLucas Market, the Wine & Cheese Shop, or Beacon Hill Chocolates. Or, better yet go to Kured and buy a pre-made charcuterie box.
For a family-owned Boston gem, peek into Charles Street Supply, one of the oldest hardware stores in the city, and keep a lookout for their store cat. If you’re looking to outfit your house or cute new Boston apartment, don’t miss out on KitchenWares by Blackstones, Elegant Findings Antiques, or Thieves Next Door for tasteful, bespoke items.
5. Brigham Circle
Sitting in the shadow of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Longwood Medical Campus, this neighborhood is usually full of healthcare workers in scrubs grabbing a quick bite to eat. But in the evenings you’ll find students flooding The Mission Bar & Grill or the Puddingstone Tavern for drinks. If you’re looking for a reasonably priced omakase, the Laughing Monk Café has an affordable sushi price that you won’t soon forget.
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