When we look back on childhood, many of our memories involve food - or at least special occasions celebrated through food. That makes us nostalgic for certain Boston area restaurants that provided the setting for some of life's big events. These 10 eateries have been in business for decades and may well have been a part of your cherished memories.
1. Sullivan's (Southie)
Sullie's has been around since 1951, so there's a fair chance you've stopped by. It offers kid-friendly fare like hot dogs and fries, along with seafood classics such as fried clams, lobster rolls, and fish 'n' chips. Sullie's season runs from February through November. It's located at 2080 Day Boulevard in Boston.
2. Kelly's Roast Beef (Revere)
Although Kelly's now has multiple restaurants, the Revere Beach location always evokes feelings of nostalgia. Grab a massive roast beef sandwich then settle on one of the picnic tables by the beach. You'll find this to-go restaurant at 410 Revere Beach Boulevard in Revere.
3. Regina's (North End)
It's hard to find a Bostonian who hasn't stopped into Regina's for pizza. Now there are locations everywhere, but the original - at 11 Thacher Street in the North End - is still the best. Head there to chow down on the Giambotta or St. Anthony's. We bet they're just as good as they were in 1926, when this joint first opened.
4. James Hook and Company (Southie)
Seafood doesn't get much fresher than that served at James Hook & Co., a company that has been going strong since 1925. Originally a wholesale supplier, James Hook & Co. branched out into the restaurant business with yummy results. Stop by 15 Northern Avenue in Boston for delectable chowder and lobster rolls, all dished up in an appealing setting.
5. Kowloon (Saugus)
Maybe you first knew this place as the Mandarin House when it was a normal-sized restaurant. If so, you probably barely recognize this sprawling, themed eatery that is now able to accommodate up to 1,200 diners! However, the quality of the food at Kowloon's hasn't changed, nor has its fun feel. Choose between dining in the Tiki Lagoon, the Mandarin Room, the Volcano Bay room, or any of the other themed areas. Join the party at 948 Broadway in Saugus.
6. Bova's Bakery (North End)
Bova's has been a local favorite for years - presumably since it first opened in 1932. Hopefully, your childhood includes memories of the bakery's Italian treats, from lobster tails to cannoli and cookies. If not, it's never too late to make new memories! Visit Bova's Bakery at 134 Salem Street in Boston.
7. Cabot's (Newton)
Cabot's is an old school ice cream parlor. While there's also a food menu, people flock here for dessert. Go wild customizing your fro-yo or dive into a massive hot fudge sundae. This spot is a real blast from the past and, once you step inside, it could be any year after 1969, when Cabot's first opened. You'll find Cabot's at 743 Washington St. in Newton.
8. Roy's Cold Cuts (Eastie)
The stuffed peppers and subs at Roy's have earned this hole-in-the-wall spot generations of devoted fans. This family-owned sandwich shop has been chugging along since 1960. It is located at 198 Marion Street in Boston.
9. Durgin Park
All Bostonians eventually eat at Durgin Park, and odds are that the experience lodged itself into your memory. After all, there aren't too many restaurants offering Indian pudding anymore! Get your prime rib and pudding fix at 340 N Market Street in Boston.
10. China Pearl (Chinatown)
Some of the best dim sum you're likely to ever taste is waiting inside this long-standing Chinatown restaurant. This spot is no secret, so be prepared to line up at 9 Tyler Street in Boston. We promise, it's worth the wait!
What other restaurants would you add to this list? Share your recommendations (and memories) in the comments below!
Although we're thrilled that these establishments have endured, there are other eateries that weren't so fortunate. Check out these places that are now gone, but much missed.
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