When most people think of world-class dining, they picture a sleek restaurant in a posh urban district. However, the small towns in this state pack just as much flavor and style into their restaurants as any big city affair. Check out the best restaurant towns in Massachusetts that are particularly awash in remarkable dining spots.
1. Stockbridge
Stockbridge is well known for its Norman Rockwell charm and historic downtown, but it's also one of the best small town dining destinations in the West. Visit Pleasant and Main for one of the coziest, most whimsical cafe experiences of your life, stop by Once Upon a Table for awesome burgers and brunch, and grab some comfort food at Brick House Pub.
2. Sheffield
With a population that hovers around 3,000, Sheffield is pretty tiny. However, there are plenty of amazing places to tuck into a yummy meal. Stop by Barrington Brewery and Restaurant for traditional American fare, grab a coffee at The Marketplace Kitchen and start the day right with a great breakfast at Mom's Country Cafe.
3. Marblehead
The history of Marblehead is one that is closely tied to the sea, which makes this small town a killer destination for fresh seafood. Head to The Barnacle of insanely beautiful views of the water, check out 5 Corners Kitchen for a posh brunch, and visit Maddie's Sail Loft for some delectably cozy pub food.
4. Charlemont
This small town is bursting with delicious places to eat. Head to Berkshire Pizzeria, Cold River Cafe & Restaurant and the Crazy Horse Bar and Grill at Berkshire East for tasty local grub.
5. Lenox
The small town of Lenox boasts around 5,000 residents and in addition to being the home of Tanglewood, it also has a plethora of amazing restaurants. Head to Bistro Zinc for fresh vegetarian options and a French flair, try Brava for fine Spanish and Italian fare, and finish off at Haven Cafe and Bakery for dessert.
6. Newburyport
For such a compact place, Newburyport boasts a dizzying array of restaurants and cafes that will blow you away. Head to Lexie's for an incredible burger, stop by Brine for sumptuous seafood, and don't forget to grab a sandwich or two for lunch at Port City Sandwich Company. If Thai is more your style, Brown Sugar By The Sea is the perfect option.
7. Adams
Just south of North Adams (duh), Adams features plenty of green space and a wonderful spate of hidden dining gems. Haflinger Haus offers authentic Austrian fare, while Daily Grind will provide you with spectacular deli grub. Bascom Lodge provides an ever-rotating menu along with a stunning mountain view.
8. Concord
Concord might be a slightly larger small town at around 17,000 residents, but it feels like an old-fashioned New England community. It's also filled with amazing places to grab a bite, such as 80 Thoreau, Trail's End Cafe and The Colonial Inn. Don't miss Farfalle Italian Market if you're in the mood for some classic, homestyle Italian takeaway.
9. Hull
If you're looking for a taste of the sea, head to Hull. Load up on delicious carbs at Breadbasket Bakery and Cafe, hang with the locals and grab some fish and chips at Marvels' Lunch Box, and be sure to stop by Jake's Seafood Restaurant for a tremendous surf and turf feast.
10. Wenham
Originally settled in 1635, Wenham offers nearly 300 acres of parks, playgrounds and green space. All that running around is bound to make you hungry, so head to 15 Walnut Tavern and Kitchen for incredible sushi, the Weathervane Tavern for tasty and traditional American fare, or the Depot Diner for the perfect brunch. If you've never been to a tea room, you're going to want to check out the fairytale setting of Fancy That Tea House and Tea Shoppe.
11. Dennis
This quiet Cape town has a lot to offer in terms of delicious dining. Head to Scargo Cafe for incredible food that harkens back to colonial days, stop by Sesuit Harbor Cafe for a sublime meal by the sea, and finish up at Captain Frosty's Fish & Chips for some of the best soft serve ice cream you've ever tasted.
12. Worthington
If you're in the mood for maple, Worthington can deliver. It's home to High Hopes Farm, which serves a sugar house buffet on the weekends in both spring and fall. Enjoy seasonal, local food at The Goldenrod Tavern.
Have you dined at any of these restaurants? We would love to hear from you! For more hidden dining gems, check these 10 under the radar restaurants in Massachusetts that will blow you away.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!