Best Of

For those who wake up hungry, Boston offers plenty of breakfast spots that open before the city really gets moving. Here’s where to grab eggs, bagels, or pancakes by neighborhood.

At-a-Glance

• Neighborhoods: Fenway/Kenmore, South End, Back Bay, Dorchester, East Boston
• MBTA stops: Kenmore, Back Bay, Broadway, Fields Corner, Maverick
• Price tiers: $–$$ (most breakfasts $8–$18)
• Wait/Resy notes: Walk-in friendly; weekends busier
• Dietary tags: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available
• Hours: Many open 6:30–7:00 a.m.

Fenway/Kenmore

Tatte Bakery & Café — Fenway

Tatte is one of Boston’s earliest-opening cafés, with doors open by 7 a.m. Their shakshuka, almond croissants, and loaded breakfast sandwiches bring in students, commuters, and hospital staff from Longwood. Seating fills quickly, but takeout is fast and consistent. Their vegan and gluten-free options are clear on the menu, making it easy to find something for any diet.

• Price: $–$$ (~$6–$15)
• MBTA/Parking: Kenmore (Green Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, counter ordering
• Link: tattebakery.com

Thornton’s Fenway Grille — Fenway

Classic diner plates with portions that fuel an entire day. Pancakes arrive fluffy and huge, while the omelets pack in the fillings. It’s a locals’ spot before 9 a.m., with quieter seating than most Fenway cafés. If you want a no-nonsense plate and hot coffee before catching the T, this is the move.

• Price: $ (~$8–$14)
• MBTA/Parking: Symphony (Green Line) or Hynes
• Accessibility: Small step at entry, booth seating
• Link: thorntonsfenwaygrille.com

South End

Mike’s City Diner — South End

Mike’s opens at 6 a.m. and serves hearty breakfasts that lean old-school—think corned beef hash, thick-cut bacon, and home fries piled high. It’s counter seating and big mugs of coffee, with regulars mixing with visitors on medical shifts. The vibe is friendly and brisk, and plates hit the table fast. Vegan choices are limited, but vegetarians can count on eggs, toast, and sides.

• Price: $ (~$10–$16)
• MBTA/Parking: Back Bay (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Narrow aisles, no reservations
• Link: mikescitydiner.com

South End Buttery — South End

Known for breakfast sandwiches on house-baked biscuits and scones, South End Buttery is a cozy corner café that opens early enough for dog walkers and commuters. The front bakery case is stacked with muffins and pastries, while the back café has a few tables for lingering. It’s pricier than some diners, but quality ingredients and consistent service justify it.

• Price: $–$$ (~$9–$18)
• MBTA/Parking: Back Bay (Orange Line) + short walk
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance; indoor seating
• Link: southendbuttery.com

Back Bay

The Friendly Toast — Back Bay

Bright, quirky décor and a menu that stretches from pancakes to breakfast burritos. They open at 7 a.m. and fill quickly on weekends, but weekdays are calmer. Portions are oversized, so splitting plates is common. Vegan scrambles, gluten-free pancakes, and almond milk lattes round out a menu that works for mixed groups.

• Price: $–$$ (~$12–$18)
• MBTA/Parking: Copley (Green Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, large dining room
• Link: thefriendlytoast.com

Flour Bakery + Café — Back Bay

Flour is Joanne Chang’s famous bakery-café, opening by 7 a.m. and staying steady until mid-afternoon. Sticky buns are the star, but breakfast sandwiches, yogurt parfaits, and good coffee keep it balanced. The atmosphere is friendly but bustling, so best for quick bites or takeaway. Gluten-free pastries rotate often, and staff mark allergens clearly.

• Price: $–$$ (~$6–$15)
• MBTA/Parking: Back Bay Station (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, counter service
• Link: flourbakery.com

Dorchester

McKenna’s Café — Savin Hill, Dorchester

A true neighborhood diner that’s been running since the ’90s. Opens at 6 a.m. and is filled with locals grabbing eggs, pancakes, and bottomless coffee before work. Service is quick, and the staff know many by name. Prices are among the lowest in the city, making it a steady option for families and commuters.

• Price: $ (~$7–$12)
• MBTA/Parking: Savin Hill (Red Line)
• Accessibility: Step entry, counter and booth seating
• Link: mckennascafe.com

East Boston

Angela’s Café — East Boston

Mexican breakfast served from 7 a.m., with huevos rancheros and chilaquiles that outshine most of the city’s brunch plates. It’s small and casual, with fast service and friendly staff. Regulars know to ask for extra salsa verde. It’s also a rare early-morning option for those who want something other than standard diner fare.

• Price: $–$$ (~$10–$16)
• MBTA/Parking: Maverick (Blue Line)
• Accessibility: Small entry step; tight seating
• Link: angelascafeboston.com

Caffè dell’Amore — East Boston

A cozy café that feels more European than Boston, with espresso drinks and fresh pastries ready when doors open at 7 a.m. Locals linger with cappuccinos, but they’ll pack up croissants and muffins quickly if you’re rushing to the T. Prices are modest, and it’s a quieter option than downtown cafés.

• Price: $ (~$5–$12)
• MBTA/Parking: Airport (Blue Line)
• Accessibility: Small but accessible entrance, indoor tables
• Link: caffedellosport.net

Recommendations

For classic diner plates, Mike’s City Diner and McKenna’s are the call. For pastries and lighter bites, Flour or South End Buttery shine. If you want international flair early, Angela’s is unmatched. And for students near Fenway, Tatte opens early and stays consistent.

Boston’s neighborhoods each bring a slightly different personality to pizza. Some spots lean traditional, others push toppings in new directions, and many balance both. This guide keeps it simple: where to go, what to order, and how to get there by MBTA. Updated August 2025.

At-a-Glance

• Neighborhoods: North End, South End, South Boston, East Boston, Back Bay, Fenway, Allston/Brighton, Jamaica Plain, Dorchester
• MBTA stops: Haymarket, Back Bay, Broadway, Maverick, Hynes, Kenmore, Harvard Ave, Stony Brook, Fields Corner
• Price tiers: $, $$, $$$
• Wait/Resy notes: North End waits peak Fri–Sat; South End takes Resy; others walk-in friendly
• Dietary tags: Gluten-free at select spots; vegan-friendly in JP and Allston
• Hours/late-night: Many open until 11; Allston/Brighton and Fenway run later

North End — Regina Pizzeria

Regina has anchored the North End since 1926, and its coal-fired pies remain a steady draw. Expect a chewy, charred crust, tangy sauce, and a lively room that still feels old Boston. Go early or late to skip the long lines, and plan on pitchers and pies as the easy move.
Price: $ (~$15 per pie)
MBTA/Parking: Haymarket (Green/Orange)
Accessibility: Narrow doorway, small restrooms
Link: reginapizzeria.com

South End — Picco

Picco balances crisp thin-crust pizzas with a small but thoughtful beer list and its own ice cream counter. The pies come out blistered and light, and the pepperoni with hot honey has a loyal following. Weekends fill up, so book ahead; midweek nights are relaxed and easy. Families often land here because dessert is built-in.
Price: $$ (~$20–25 pp)
MBTA/Parking: Back Bay (Orange/Commuter Rail)
Accessibility: Step-free entry, tight tables
Link: piccorestaurant.com

South Boston — Capo

On West Broadway, Capo turns out Neapolitan-style pizzas alongside a full Italian menu. The Margherita is simple and solid, while seasonal pies bring new flavors. It works well for groups with mixed cravings, since the pasta program is strong too. Reservations make sense on weekends; weekday bar seats are often open.
Price: $$ (~$22–28 pp)
MBTA/Parking: Broadway (Red Line)
Accessibility: Ramp entrance, accessible restrooms
Link: caposouthboston.com

East Boston — Santarpio’s

Santarpio’s is straightforward: cash only, paper plates, and thin-crust pies that define Eastie comfort food. The sausage and garlic pizza is the standard order, and the room is noisy in a good way. Expect a line at peak hours but quick turnover once you’re inside.
Price: $ (~$15–20 per pie)
MBTA/Parking: Maverick (Blue Line)
Accessibility: Narrow step at entrance, no dedicated restroom
Link: santarpiospizza.com

Back Bay — Eataly Pizza & Pasta

Inside Prudential Center, Eataly serves Roman-style pizza with crisp crusts and clean toppings. It’s reliable for a quick lunch, a pre-Fenway bite, or a group meal when not everyone wants pizza. Slices are quick, tables run busier, but turnover is steady.
Price: $$ (~$20–25 pp)
MBTA/Parking: Hynes (Green Line)
Accessibility: Full ADA access
Link: eataly.com

Fenway — Tasty Burger Pizza Nights

Tasty Burger isn’t a pizza shop first, but its late-night slices keep Fenway crowds happy after games. The pies are simple, the service is quick, and the vibe is casual. It’s a dependable option when you need food after 11 p.m. without much fuss.
Price: $ (~$5–6 per slice)
MBTA/Parking: Kenmore (Green Line)
Accessibility: Step-free entrance, casual seating
Link: tastyburger.com

Allston/Brighton — Otto Pizza

Otto brought Portland’s mix-and-match topping style to Harvard Ave, and its slices have become a neighborhood standard. The mashed potato, bacon, and scallion pie is surprisingly balanced, and vegan-friendly options broaden the appeal. Hours stretch later than most, making it a strong late-night stop.
Price: $ (~$5–6 per slice; $20–25 per pie)
MBTA/Parking: Harvard Ave (Green Line B)
Accessibility: Narrow but step-free entry
Link: ottoportland.com

Jamaica Plain — Same Old Place

Same Old Place keeps Greek-style pan pizza alive in JP with thick, cheesy pies that have been on order sheets for decades. It’s neighborhood food at its core, reliable for delivery and casual dine-in alike. Calzones and subs round out the comfort-heavy menu.
Price: $ (~$15–20 per pie)
MBTA/Parking: Stony Brook (Orange Line)
Accessibility: Street-level entry, limited seating
Link: sameoldplacepizza.com

Dorchester — Molinari’s Pizzeria

Dorchester Center’s Molinari’s keeps things simple in the best way: thin crust, wood-fired pies made from fresh ingredients in a cozy open-kitchen setting. It’s a sit-down spot with a warm neighborhood feel and dependable flavor—a good replacement for the defunct Venice Pizza.
Price: Moderate
MBTA/Parking: Near Adams St/Lower Mills (Red Line); street parking available
Accessibility: Casual interior; check for accessibility details
Link: molinarispizzeria.com

Cannoli aren’t just dessert in Boston, they’re tradition. From legendary North End bakeries to modern spins in Somerville, Cambridge, and beyond, the city’s cannoli scene is unmatched. This guide highlights the must-try spots where crispy shells and creamy ricotta fillings shine.

At-a-Glance

• Neighborhoods: North End, Somerville, Cambridge, South End, Quincy
• MBTA stops: Haymarket, Davis, Harvard, Back Bay, Quincy Center
• Price tiers: $–$$ ($4–$7 per cannoli)
• Wait/Resy notes: Weekend lines in North End; shorter waits elsewhere
• Hours: Most open daily; Bova’s is 24/7

North End

Mike’s Pastry — North End
Mike’s is the heavyweight of Boston cannoli, and the shop’s blue-and-white boxes are practically souvenirs. Expect oversized pastries stuffed with everything from classic ricotta to pistachio, espresso, and amaretto. The shells stay crunchy even under heaps of filling, making them ideal for sharing, though few people actually do. Weekend lines wrap down Hanover Street, but the energy, history, and payoff make the wait worthwhile.

• Price: $–$$ (~$5–$7 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Haymarket (Orange/Green Line)
• Accessibility: Narrow, crowded interior
• Link: mikespastry.com

Modern Pastry — North End
Family-owned and often the locals’ pick, Modern Pastry is all about choice. Customers can select plain or chocolate-dipped shells, pick their filling, and decide on toppings like chocolate chips or powdered sugar. The cannoli are slightly smaller than Mike’s, but their crispness and smooth ricotta filling give them staying power. With additional cakes, cookies, and tarts on display, it’s a bakery that rewards repeat visits.

• Price: $ (~$4–$6 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Haymarket (Orange/Green Line)
• Accessibility: Step at entry
• Link: modernpastry.com

Bova’s Bakery — North End
Bova’s is the North End’s answer to every late-night craving, serving cannoli 24/7. The shells are fried golden and filled with traditional ricotta, less sweet than some competitors, which makes them appealing for purists. Crowds are smaller here, so you can avoid the Hanover Street rush while still enjoying top-tier cannoli. Beyond pastries, the bakery also offers bread, cookies, and hearty sandwiches, but cannoli remain a highlight.

• Price: $ (~$4–$6 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Haymarket (Orange/Green Line)
• Accessibility: Narrow entry, busy counter
• Link: bovabakeryboston.net

Somerville

Lyndell’s Bakery — Union Square
Founded in 1887, Lyndell’s is one of the oldest bakeries in the Boston area, and its cannoli remain a neighborhood classic. The shells are crisp, the ricotta lightly sweetened, and the vibe pure old-school charm. Though Lyndell’s is better known for sheet cakes and cookies, regulars will tell you their cannoli are underrated gems. The pace is slower than Hanover Street, and you’ll usually find friendly service and no wait.

• Price: $ (~$4–$5 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Union Square (Green Line)
• Accessibility: Step at entrance
• Link: lyndells.com

Cambridge

Royal Pastry Shop — Harvard Square
Royal Pastry Shop feels frozen in time, in the best way possible. The bakery’s cannoli are straightforward: crisp shells, smooth ricotta, and no frills. It’s not flashy, but it’s the kind of dessert you keep going back for, with flavors that have been consistent for decades. Harvard students and longtime locals alike treat it as a dependable go-to.

• Price: $ (~$4–$5 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Harvard (Red Line)
• Accessibility: Narrow doorway
• Link: royalpastryshop.net

Flour Bakery + Café — Cambridge
Best known for its sticky buns and breakfast sandwiches, Flour also makes cannoli worth seeking out. The filling is creamier and slightly sweeter than old-school versions, making it more of a dessert-style treat. Freshly made shells keep their snap, and the café setting makes it easy to pair one with coffee or a sandwich. It’s an option that bridges the line between traditional and modern tastes.

• Price: $–$$ (~$5–$7 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Central (Red Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Link: flourbakery.com

South End

Roma Bakery — South End
Roma Bakery channels Hanover Street without the lines, offering breads, cookies, and cannoli that hold their own against North End heavyweights. The shells are sturdy and travel-friendly, while the ricotta is lightly sweetened with subtle vanilla notes. It’s a great choice for picking up desserts before dinner parties, as everything here stays fresh well into the evening. Compared to the bustle of Hanover Street, Roma feels like a hidden neighborhood treasure.

• Price: $ (~$4–$6 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Back Bay (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Link: romabakeryboston.com

Mida — South End
While known primarily as an Italian restaurant, Mida’s dessert menu includes standout cannoli. They’re filled to order, ensuring the shells remain crisp, and the ricotta is smooth, balanced, and lightly sweet. A drizzle of chocolate and delicate presentation elevate them from casual pastry to plated dessert. It’s a refined way to finish a meal of house-made pasta or braised meats.

• Price: $$ (~$7 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Back Bay (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
• Link: midarestaurant.com

Quincy

Konditor Meister — Quincy
Konditor Meister is renowned for its elaborate cakes, but its cannoli are equally polished. The shells are perfectly crisp, the ricotta filling is rich but not overly sweet, and every pastry looks presentation-ready. This is the bakery people turn to for catering, weddings, and special occasions, where desserts need to taste as good as they look. Slightly pricier than most, but the attention to detail makes it well worth it.

• Price: $$ (~$6–$7 per cannoli)
• MBTA/Parking: Quincy Adams (Red Line)
• Accessibility: Large, wheelchair accessible bakery
• Link: konditormeister.com

From champagne to shakshuka, Boston’s brunch scene covers everything from boozy weekends to family-friendly mornings. Here’s where to brunch by neighborhood.

At-a-Glance

• Neighborhoods: South End, Cambridge, North End, Jamaica Plain, Seaport
• MBTA stops: Back Bay, Kendall, Haymarket, Stony Brook, Courthouse
• Price tiers: $–$$$ (most brunch plates $12–$28)
• Wait/Resy notes: Reservations recommended in South End and Seaport
• Dietary tags: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options available
• Hours: Most open 9 a.m.–3 p.m. weekends

South End

The Beehive — South End
Known for live jazz and a vibrant weekend crowd, The Beehive pairs classic brunch dishes with cocktails and a buzzy atmosphere. The shakshuka and smoked salmon plates hold their own, while the bottomless coffee keeps things grounded. It’s a bit chaotic at peak times, but the scene is part of the draw. Reservations are smart here, especially after 11 a.m.

• Price: $$–$$$ (~$18–$28 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Back Bay (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, large dining room
• Link: beehiveboston.com

Boston Chops — South End
A steakhouse that transforms brunch into a hearty feast. Expect oversized portions like steak and eggs, fried chicken sandwiches, and rich Benedicts. The dining room is upscale but relaxed in the morning, with good service and strong coffee. A better fit for groups who want a filling brunch over a light bite.

• Price: $$–$$$ (~$20–$28 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Back Bay (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, reservations recommended
• Link: bostonchops.com

Cambridge

Cafe Luna — Kendall Square
Cafe Luna has long been a brunch staple, with a menu that balances sweet and savory. Nutella-stuffed French toast and crab cake Benedicts headline, while vegan scrambles and smoothies cover other bases. The space is bright and busy, and lines form quickly, so reservations are key on weekends. Service is efficient even when it’s packed.

• Price: $$ (~$15–$25 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Kendall/MIT (Red Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, indoor/outdoor seating
• Link: cafeluna-centralsq.com

Henrietta’s Table — Harvard Square
Farm-to-table brunch that leans seasonal, with produce sourced locally. Think maple sausage, farm eggs, and rotating baked goods. The space feels warm and classic, drawing both Harvard families and longtime Cambridge locals. It’s not flashy, but quality is consistently high.

• Price: $$–$$$ (~$20–$28 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Harvard (Red Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, spacious dining room
• Link: charleshotel.com/dining/henriettas-table

North End

Parla — North End
Parla is better known for cocktails, but its weekend brunch pulls a loyal crowd. Plates like lemon ricotta pancakes and breakfast pastas mix with strong coffee and morning drinks. The atmosphere is moody but welcoming, and it feels like a hidden escape from the busier Hanover Street brunch lines.

• Price: $$ (~$16–$24 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Haymarket (Green/Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Small entry step, dim dining room
• Link: parlaboston.com

Bricco — North End
An upscale Italian restaurant that runs a polished weekend brunch. Eggs, pastries, and paninis anchor the menu, with a European feel. Seating is tighter than some brunch spots, but service is attentive and quick. Best for smaller groups or pairs who want a more refined brunch.

• Price: $$–$$$ (~$18–$26 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Haymarket (Green/Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Narrow doorway, limited tables
• Link: bricco.com

Jamaica Plain

The Haven — JP
Boston’s Scottish gastropub opens for brunch with hearty plates like Scotch eggs, smoked salmon toast, and full breakfasts. It’s casual but with a twist, and their beer list means brunch can stretch into the afternoon. Families mix with regulars, and the service is unfussy. Portions are generous for the price.

• Price: $$ (~$14–$20 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Stony Brook (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, cozy dining room
• Link: thehavenjp.com

Brassica Kitchen — JP
Creative and seasonal, Brassica Kitchen blends comfort and innovation on its brunch menu. Expect fried chicken and waffles, kimchi scrambles, and inventive pastries. The vibe is laid-back but stylish, making it a destination for food-focused brunchers. It’s a spot where you’ll want to linger with a coffee refill.

• Price: $$–$$$ (~$16–$24 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Forest Hills (Orange Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, neighborhood spot
• Link: brassicakitchen.com

Seaport

Committee — Seaport
Mediterranean-inspired brunch with strong cocktails and small plates for sharing. The Greek yogurt bowls and spanakopita Benedicts stand out, and the energy is lively even at 10 a.m. The large space fills quickly, so reservations are strongly advised. Expect a social scene more than a quiet meal.

• Price: $$–$$$ (~$18–$26 plates)
• MBTA/Parking: Courthouse (Silver Line)
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, high-energy dining room
• Link: committeeboston.com