Look, stop wasting your money on Faneuil Hall food

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Okay, real talk. If you’re visiting Boston this June, please do yourself a favor and stay away from the tourist traps. I live here, I eat out way too much, and I’m tired of seeing people pay $30 for a sad, dry lobster roll. Seriously, don’t do it. If you want to know where to eat in Boston right now, you need to head to the neighborhoods. It’s summer, the patios are open, and the produce at the markets is finally looking decent. Let’s talk about where I’m actually spending my paycheck this month.

The Seaport is actually getting good, I promise

I know, I know. Everyone says the Seaport is just glass condos and overpriced drinks. But honestly? Some of the best new spots are hiding in plain sight. I went to a spot last week that blew my mind. You’ve got to check out the new taco scene near the water. It’s not cheap—expect to drop $50 for two people with drinks—but the quality is there. Just make sure you book a table on Resy at least four days in advance. If you don’t, you’re waiting outside for an hour, and nobody wants that in this humidity. It’s a vibe, but maybe not that much of a vibe.

My go-to order for a quick bite

I usually grab the carnitas tacos. They use high-quality pork and the salsa verde has just enough kick to wake you up. Pro tip: ask for extra lime. I always use Diamond Crystal kosher salt at home, but here, the seasoning is spot on. It’s a solid $18 lunch that won’t make you feel like you wasted your money.

North End Italian: Skip the line, find the gems

If you’re standing in a line for 90 minutes for pasta, you’re doing it wrong. I’m sorry, but no carbonara is worth that much of your life. I’ve been going to a tiny spot on the edge of the North End that doesn’t even have a sign out front. It’s cash only, which is annoying, but the lasagna is life-changing. You’ll spend about $25 per plate, and it’s worth every cent. Don’t bother with the places that have people outside with clipboards. Those are for tourists who don’t know any better. Trust me, the best Italian food in Boston is the stuff that doesn’t advertise on Instagram.

How to handle the cash-only rule

There’s a Bank of America ATM right around the corner, but the fees are a nightmare. Just grab $60 from your local bank before you head downtown. It saves you the headache and the $4.50 service fee. Seriously, don’t be that person asking the server where the nearest machine is.

Cambridge and Somerville are where the cool kids eat

If you really want to eat like a local, get on the Red Line and get out of downtown. Somerville has this insane food scene right now that makes Boston proper look boring. I found a dumpling spot that I’ve visited three times in the last month. The skins are paper-thin, and the filling is juicy. It’s cheap, it’s loud, and the service is fast. You can feed two people for under $40 if you’re smart. Plus, the walk around Davis Square is perfect for working off those extra calories. It’s honestly the best way to spend a Saturday afternoon when the weather is nice.

The dumpling strategy

Order the spicy wontons. I don’t care if you’re a wimp with heat—you need these. They have a sauce that tastes like it has a secret ingredient I can’t quite pin down. Maybe it’s the chili crisp? Whatever it is, order two servings because you will fight over the last one.

Summer treats you shouldn’t skip

Look, it’s June in Boston. You can’t just eat dinner; you need the snacks. I’m obsessed with the local gelato spots right now. There’s a place that sources their milk from a farm in Western Mass, and you can actually taste the difference. It’s $8 for a scoop, which hurts a little, but it’s the best $8 you’ll spend all day. Don’t get the boring stuff. Try the basil or the local honey flavor. It’s refreshing, it’s not too sweet, and it’s basically a requirement if you’re walking along the Charles River. If you see a line, just join it. It moves fast, and it’s worth the wait.

My favorite flavor combo

Get the lemon zest with a swirl of olive oil. Sounds weird, I know. But the fat from the oil and the acid from the lemon? It’s a total game-changer for your palate. Just trust me on this one.

⭐ Pro Tips

• Always check Resy or OpenTable on a Tuesday for weekend spots; most people cancel their bookings by Wednesday.
• Skip the overpriced bottled water at restaurants; Boston tap water is actually rated really well, just ask for a glass of ice water.
• Don’t fall for the ‘famous’ lobster rolls in the North End; you’re paying for the brand name, not the quality of the lobster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Look, eating in Boston is only a headache if you let it be. Stick to the neighborhoods, avoid the big flashing signs, and don’t be afraid to try the places that look a little worn-out. If you’re hungry, just walk into a place that smells like garlic and happiness. You’ll be fine. Now, go grab some food and enjoy the weather while it lasts because we know the cold is coming back soon.