While the decade comes to a close, there are countless opportunities ahead to do all of the things that you didn't get a chance to last year. If one of your to-do items was to eat at new restaurants, look no further than these 11 spots throughout the Bay State that are sure to leave a lasting impact. Massachusetts is home to dozens upon dozens of amazing restaurants, but we picked 11 of the most interesting and top-rated restaurants for you to enjoy. Whether you want a dining experience with a view, the best lobster roll in the state, or some Italian fare that will have you running back for more, here are 11 of the restaurants that you'll want to put on your list in 2020.
1. The Alvah Stone
This beautiful farm-to-table restaurant is housed in one of Montague's most historic buildings. The historic book mill upon the Sawmill River dates all the way back to 1834, making for a truly rustic and unforgettable atmosphere. This spot serves up modern American fare that's truly farm-to-table. If the environment doesn't have you feeling magical, the food will. You'll find many seasonal dishes at The Alvah Stone as they are committed to using only fresh ingredients. To learn more about this restaurant, click here.
2. Mamma Maria
If you’re from the Boston area, you know that North Square is the oldest public square in America, and a delight to stroll down and pretend as though you’ve been transported back to the olden days. Upon this square, you can stop for some of Boston’s most iconic Italian food at Mamma Maria. This amazing fine dining restaurant has been around since 1973 and still serves up some of the best Italian fare in the state. From unforgettable Osso Buco to a decadent porterhouse steak, it doesn’t get any better than Mamma Maria. Learn more about this restaurant by clicking here.
3. Belle Isle Seafood
In the sleepy seaside town of Winthrop, you'll find an affordable and unassuming seafood spot that has locals running back for more. For one of the best lobster rolls in Massachusetts, and potentially the world, you need to head to Winthrop and visit Belle Isle Seafood. For more information, click here.
4. Mariel
Mariel is a Cuban-inspired restaurant just opened in Boston's Financial District this past year, and it has people talking. It's located inside the old bank building that overlooks Post Office Square, but the inside will transport you somewhere exquisite. The main dining room has 23-foot ceilings with gorgeous chandeliers, and of course, the food is just as breathtaking. We recommend the street pizzas. To learn more about Mariel, click here.
5. Mill on the Floss
When visiting the Berkshires, it’s natural to want to treat yourself to the best of the best. The Mill on the Floss is a beautiful French restaurant in New Ashford, complete with spectacular service, supporting local farmers, and offering you a true fine dining experience that you won’t soon forget. Not only is this spot elegant, stunning, and delicious, but it comes with history all the way back to pioneer days. To learn more, click here.
6. Belfry Inn & Bistro
Inside this beautiful church in Sandwich is actually a gorgeous inn and top-notch restaurant called Belfry Inn & Bistro. The structure that now holds Belfry was built in 1901 as a Catholic church. From the outside, it still looks just like a historic church, but inside will leave you feeling breathless. For the food, you'll always find something memorable. Chef Nicci Tripp has created the perfect menu for everyone's taste. For more information, click here.
7. Holly Crab
Have you ever built your own seafood boil? If you haven't, well now is the time at Holly Crab. This fresh cajun seafood house with two locations, one in Allston and one in Lowell, serves up the best seafood boil in Massachusetts. What’s even better is that you can customize your seafood boil completely, from the seafood to the sauce and the sides. To learn more about Holly Crab, click here.
8. Sorellina
While there are plenty of places in Massachusetts to have a great Italian dining experience, Sorellina is taking the classic and romantic Italian dinner and putting a twist on it to make it unique as ever. Chef Jamie Mammano takes your classics and puts a Mediterranean twist on it. This Copley Square spot needs to be on your bucket list. To learn more about Sorellina, click here.
9. Trident Booksellers & Cafe
Tucked inside this Boston bookstore is an incredible full-service cafe that's begging to be experienced first hand. This spot has been around since 1984 and has become a true gathering place in Back Bay. Whether you're meeting with friends, or just seeking a delicious meal, this is the place to be. Their breakfast menu is completely customizable, so the options are endless. To learn more, click here.
10. Hope & Olive
Hope & Olive in Greenfield is an incredible little bistro that’s tucked away for you to find. Not only is this restaurant committed to the best service around, but they also partner with local farms to use only the freshest ingredients. Start your meal with a glass of wine from their unique by-the-glass menu, and prepare to jump into an incredible menu full of seasonal options. Hope & Olive is open for brunch, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks, so make sure to plan a visit soon. For more information, click here.
11. Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe
Of course, we couldn't forget dessert for 2020! Holy Cow Ice Cream Cafe in Gloucester makes some of the best ice cream in Massachusetts, and the best part is that they place it between two scratch-made cookies for the best ice cream sandwich you’ve ever had. Bonus: they have dairy-free ice cream as well. This ice cream shop is only open seasonally, so plan accordingly, but we must say that these ice cream sandwiches are well worth the wait. For more info, click here.
Which of these restaurants are you excited to try? What Bay State restaurants are you adding to your list for 2020? We'd love to hear your suggestions in the comments!
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