21 Best Restaurants in Brookline, MA
This article was written by local contributor Esmeralda William & edited by the Travel Lens team.
As someone who has lived in Brookline, Massachusetts, for quite some time now, I can confidently say that this charming town is a hidden gem for foodies.
Over the years, I've had the pleasure of exploring the diverse dining scene, which offers everything from cozy cafes to exquisite fine dining establishments.
In this article, I'll be sharing some of the best restaurants in Brookline, Massachusetts, and I'm sure that by the end of it, you'll be eager to try them all yourself!
So, let's dive in and discover the culinary delights this beautiful town has to offer.
Rifrullo Cafe
I've always been a fan of quaint, cozy cafes, and Rifrullo Cafe has become one of my all-time favorites.
Their homestyle breakfasts and globally inspired mains are just what I need to start my day off right.
Not only do they serve delicious food, but their coffee drinks are exceptionally smooth and can be customized to my liking.
Deciding what to order was a challenge because everything looked so appealing!
Eventually, I settled on the mushroom and goat cheese tart with a side of their upside-down rhubarb pie.
They did not disappoint – I savored every bite!
One of the things I love most about this cafe is its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
They have three tables outside with umbrellas, perfect for sidewalk dining on a sunny day.
Inside, the open layout is inviting and even offers self-serve ice water.
I've returned multiple times since my first visit, and I have yet to be disappointed.
The Turkey Club Sandwich with chipotle mayo and house-pickled veggies is another standout dish that I highly recommend.
Dolma
I recently discovered Dolma Mediterranean Cuisine in our neighborhood, and let me tell you, it's a hidden gem!
The place has a simple operation with outdoor seating and a homey vibe which makes me feel comfortable every time I visit.
The mezze, wraps, and desserts they offer are simply amazing.
The food is always fresh, and I can tell that everything is prepared from scratch, even the desserts.
I'm personally a huge fan of their tiramisu and baklava – they're so delicious and full of flavor!
Their customer service is also impressive, and I've received samples of other desserts to try during my visits.
Club Dante
I have tried various Italian restaurants, but nothing has ever come close to the authenticity and charm of Club Dante.
This gem of a place has become my go-to spot for the perfect Italian meal.
From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with a warm ambiance and soothing Italian music playing in the background.
Their menu is extensive, offering a variety of dishes that cater to every taste bud.
I've tried everything from their mouth-watering pizzas to the delicious pasta dishes and even their arancini, which is, hands down, some of the best I’ve ever had.
My personal favorite is their baked penne - trust me when I say it's nothing short of spectacular.
Pizza Stop
One evening, while looking for a nearby pizza place, I stumbled upon Pizza Stop and decided to give it a try.
I'm glad I did!
The pizza was incredibly delicious, and the chicken fajita pizza instantly became my favorite.
The young man behind the counter greeted all the regulars warmly and made me feel right at home.
Apart from the pizza, I also tried their Italian sub, which was equally amazing.
The perfect pairing of texture and taste in the crust is something I still crave.
It's not just the food that keeps me coming back to Pizza Stop, it's the warm atmosphere and kind people that make it a neighborhood gem.
Every time I visit, I am reminded of the great experience I had during my first visit.
Mahaniyom
The other day, I decided to give Mahaniyom a try, as I had heard great things about it.
I must say, it was one of the best dining experiences I've had in a while!
The cozy, brick-lined atmosphere and chill vibe made it the perfect spot for an evening out.
I didn't make a reservation, but I was lucky enough to find a seat at the bar.
The food was simply amazing.
I savored every bite of the crunchy, savory chive cake, and the curry was rich and bursting with flavor.
The pad Thai, especially with the prawns, was out of this world!
I also highly recommend the grilled pork and chicken wings.
Each dish was perfectly seasoned and left me wanting more.
Bar 'Cino Brookline
I recently visited Bar 'Cino in Brookline for dinner with friends, and let me tell you, it was a fantastic experience.
This warehouse-chic spot offers Mediterranean eats, shared plates, and cocktails, with a take-out option as well.
The moment we walked in, we were mesmerized by the ambiance.
We started off with their cauliflower bites and clams, which were so flavorful that we couldn't stop raving about them.
The dipping sauce for the clams was out of this world, and the cauliflower was crispy and cooked to perfection.
For our main course, I tried their Bolognese, and it was absolutely amazing.
The sauce and meat were delicious, and the pasta had a wonderfully chewy consistency.
I rarely praise pasta dishes, but this one was truly outstanding.
To top it all off, the draft beer was served ice cold, and the service was impeccable.
Cutty's
One of my favorite spots to grab a delicious sandwich in town has to be Cutty's.
This gem of a breakfast-lunch joint is known for its locally sourced and made-in-house ingredients.
Every sandwich I've tried from here has never disappointed me, and my go-to options are the Beef 1000 and the Turkey 1000.
The crispy shallots on top always add that perfect touch of flavor and texture.
Recently, they've introduced slower-cooked pork that truly takes the taste to a whole new level.
And I must say, their pork fennel sandwich has become my new obsession - it's just chef's kiss!
Cutty's also offers fantastic weekly specials that I never hesitate to try.
My personal favorite is the Greens Bacon with Turkey, but the Mortadella on Focaccia is a real contender too.
I highly recommend trying their chicken sandwiches, which are so popular that they require a pre-order.
Trust me, it's worth it!
Just a heads up, they do have somewhat unusual hours and currently only take online orders, so planning ahead is key.
But once you do, prepare to treat yourself to some of the best sandwiches in town.
Grainne O'Malley's Tavern
I've been frequenting Grainne O'Malley's Tavern for quite some time now, and it has become one of my favorite spots to unwind after a long day.
Nestled in a quiet, clean, and calm neighborhood, the tavern is a bustling yet welcoming place for locals like me to enjoy a laid-back night out.
Walking in, you're greeted with a slightly lively but never rowdy atmosphere, filled with people enjoying their time together.
One of my favorite things about this tavern is its basic pub fare and a great selection of draft beers on tap.
I've tried their burger, steak dinner, and waffle fries, and even managed to get a cup of chowder once after the kitchen had closed.
The food is always cooked nearly to perfection, making it a satisfying experience every time.
Veggie Crust Brookline
I'm always on the lookout for new dining experiences.
When I heard about Veggie Crust, a kosher vegetarian restaurant in Brookline, I knew I had to give it a try.
And I must say, it did not disappoint!
This place offers a unique fusion of traditional Indian dishes and vegetarian pizzas with Indian-inspired flavors.
Over my numerous visits, I've had the chance to try both their Indian dishes and pizzas, and they've always left me craving more.
The Indian food is authentic and delicious, while the pizzas are hands down some of the best kosher pizzas I've ever had.
I love that their menu is clearly defined, making it easy for those not familiar with Indian cuisine to decide what to order.
One more thing that sets Veggie Crust apart is their kosher certification by KVH, which is CRC approved.
This makes it a great dining option for those who follow a kosher diet.
Chiharu Sushi & Noodle
I recently dined at Chiharu Sushi & Noodle, and I must say, it was a fantastic experience!
I'm a fan of sushi and noodles, and this cozy spot on Route 9 perfectly satisfied my cravings.
I started my meal with the Chiharu House Roll and was pleasantly surprised by the unique and stylish presentation.
The gold flakes on top, colorful roe and cherry tomatoes carved into rabbit shapes added a delightful touch.
Though the wait times for food were a bit on the longer side, it was definitely worth it.
The sushi and shumai were amazing, and the pricing was very reasonable.
I also tried the sashimi salad, which was delicious and featured a generous helping of fish.
The atmosphere at Chiharu Sushi & Noodle is modern and inviting, complete with happy plants and soothing jazz music playing in the background.
Pure Cold Press
Oh, how I love Pure Cold Press!
It's a fantastic little spot in our town with a chill California vibe, and they serve some of the best cold-pressed juices, veggie sandwiches, and more.
As someone who enjoys healthier options, I appreciate the variety of menu items and the freshness of their ingredients.
When the weather is nice, I like to sit in their outdoor seating area and enjoy one of their Liquid Gold juices.
It's my absolute favorite!
The salads are also phenomenal - I recently tried The Orchard salad with Salmon, and it was incredibly delicious.
The salmon was perfectly seasoned, and the portion size was just right.
The Washington Square Tavern
Just the other night, I decided to head over to my favorite neighborhood spot, The Washington Square Tavern, for a relaxing evening.
This place has everything I love - a warm, cozy pub atmosphere, a fantastic beer selection, and amazing food that goes above and beyond your typical pub grub.
Their daily specials are always a treat, and this time, I went with the tuna, which was simply fantastic.
To top it off, they have a heated outdoor seating area that's perfect for those chilly winter evenings.
I was able to comfortably enjoy my meal outside, surrounded by the inviting glow of heaters.
They're knowledgeable about wines from all over the world, and the resident chef, Luis, consistently creates spectacular dishes that keep me coming back for more.
I'm always excited to see what he's come up with.
I'm so grateful to have this wonderful, inviting neighborhood restaurant right around the corner.
No matter how many times I visit, I know I'll always be welcomed with delicious food, friendly faces, and an atmosphere that feels like home.
Parlour
One of my favorite places to unwind and indulge in amazing food and cocktails is Parlour in Brookline.
As soon as I step in, I'm welcomed by the comforting atmosphere that reminds me of a cozy local inn.
The cocktails are not only stunning to look at but also taste delicious.
I feel like I'm sipping on a work of art each time I try a new drink there.
The food is also exquisite.
From the fresh octopus with lemon caper aioli to the mouthwatering salmon, the quality and presentation of the dishes are always impressive.
The gnocchi has an awesome flavor that leaves me craving more.
Even if you're not a fan of cocktails, the food alone is worth a visit.
Ganko Ittetsu Ramen
One of my favorite places to grab a bowl of delicious ramen is Ganko Ittetsu Ramen in the Brookline area.
The first time I went there, it was a busy Tuesday evening around 7 pm, and the restaurant was packed.
I had to wait for about 20 minutes in a well-organized line before getting a seat inside.
As soon as I walked in, I noticed how tiny and cozy the space is, located inside a commercial building.
What I love about Ganko Ittetsu Ramen is their amazing menu, offering three kinds of wok-cooked, Sapporo-style ramen soups.
The food is prepared really fast, and the portions are quite big.
It's not the best spot for a leisurely dinner or a date night, but it's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Rod D by Sitti Thai Cuisine
One of my favorite spots to grab Thai food in town has to be Rod D by Sitti Thai Cuisine.
It's a modest eatery, but the food and service are consistently top-notch.
I remember the first time I dined there, I was blown away by their crispy chick pad Thai, and the appetizer with juicy chicken and peanut sauce was simply amazing.
Every time I go back, it's like the food is always getting better.
Their menu is quite extensive, and every dish I've tried has been loaded with flavor.
Some of my personal favorites include Indonesian fried rice with crispy chicken and tom yum noodle soup.
The broth in the soup has the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and sour.
Bottega di Capri
There's something truly special about Bottega di Capri, a cozy neighborhood deli located in Brookline.
I've been a regular customer at this delightful spot for quite some time now, and it never fails to impress me with its delicious homestyle Italian meals, imported meats, housemade bread, and of course, the espresso.
I remember one snowy evening when nearly every restaurant in Brookline was closed due to a winter storm, Bottega di Capri was the only one open, showing their incredible dedication to the community.
Their pasta dishes, like the Penne Al Dante, are absolutely divine, and let's not even get started on their cannolis and other pastries!
The intimate seating and charming atmosphere make it the perfect place for a date night or just a casual dinner with friends.
Whenever I have out-of-town guests, I love bringing them here, and they're always blown away by the quality of the food.
Barcelona Wine Bar
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite and unwind after work is the Barcelona Wine Bar in Brookline.
As a late-night go-to, it offers an extensive array of Spanish-centric small plates and wine in an intimate setting.
The food is consistently great, and the ambiance is perfect for catching up with friends or for a date night.
What sets Barcelona Wine Bar apart is their attentive and friendly service, which never fails to impress.
The tapas menu is budget-friendly, and the dishes are classic with a slight twist.
My personal favorite is the truffled bikini, but I also enjoy dipping the bread in the spicy olive oil from the gambas.
Soup Shack Brookline
I can confidently say that Soup Shack Brookline is one of my favorite spots to grab a delicious meal.
Their menu features a diverse range of Vietnamese pho, Japanese ramen, and Thai noodle bowls, making it perfect for satisfying any noodle craving I might have.
Their website allows me to browse their menu and even place orders for takeout or delivery.
The atmosphere at Soup Shack is always relaxed and welcoming, making it an ideal place for lunch or a casual dinner.
I remember the first time I tried their black sesame tonkatsu ramen, which was not only unique but also packed with flavor.
Another thing I appreciate about this place is the generous portion sizes, especially when it comes to the pork in their dishes.
It's consistently well-cooked and tender, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to each meal.
One of my favorite menu items at Soup Shack is their Shoyu broth.
It's light yet incredibly flavorful and pairs perfectly with the melt-in-your-mouth pork.
I also like to add mushrooms to mine, which only enhances the experience.
Apart from noodles, I've also tried their Agedashi Tofu, and it was a delightful starter.
Orinoco Brookline Village
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite in the Brookline area is Orinoco Kitchen, a no-reservations Venezuelan eatery.
I'm always looking for unique and delicious food, and this place never disappoints.
The smoky arepas they serve are absolutely to die for, and the cozy, Latin-accented atmosphere just adds to the overall experience.
Even though the service may not be the fastest, their friendliness more than makes up for it.
I've tried several dishes here, and each one has its own distinct flavor that keeps me coming back for more.
One of my favorite dishes is the Chuleta - the pork is cooked to perfection, and the orange taste mixed in really brings out the spices.
The Brookline Pizza Spa
I've had my fair share of experiences with local eateries, and one place that I particularly enjoy visiting is The Brookline Pizza Spa.
This no-frills corner eatery has become my go-to spot for brick-oven pizzas, sandwiches, burgers, salads, and even breakfast options.
What I love about The Brookline Pizza Spa is the friendly atmosphere, the fantastic customer service, and of course, the scrumptious food.
I've tried a variety of their menu items, and I must say, their pizza slices are huge, and the flavors are simply amazing.
One of my favorite dishes to order is their chili fries, which are loaded with cheese, chili beans, and fries - just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
Another thing that sets The Brookline Pizza Spa apart from other eateries in the area is their affordable prices and generous portions.
I've noticed that many other takeout spots have increased their prices or cut down on portion sizes, but The Brookline Pizza Spa has remained consistent in offering great value for the money.
Their sandwiches, for instance, are not only delicious but also filling and worth every penny.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
There's something about Tatte Bakery & Cafe that keeps me coming back for more.
It's not just their delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes or their delectable pastries and treats; it's also the cozy, airy atmosphere that feels like a little slice of Europe right in the heart of my city.
Whenever I have friends or family visiting from out of town, I make sure to bring them to Tatte for brunch.
We usually choose to dine al fresco and soak up the lively Beacon St. atmosphere while munching on some shakshuka or lamb hash.
I can't tell you how many times I've recommended their flat white to my coffee-loving friends, and the iced beetroot latte with oat milk is an interesting, albeit slightly sweet, option for those looking for something a bit different.
The indoor and outdoor seating options are perfect for any weather.
Final Thoughts
Residing in Brookline has given me the opportunity to explore and enjoy a wide variety of incredible restaurants.
From Mediterranean cuisine at Dolma to mouthwatering pizza at Club Dante, there's something for everyone in this vibrant town.
The diverse range of options means that I'm never bored when it comes to dining out, and I love discovering new favorites with friends and family.
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