20 Best Restaurants in Framingham, MA
This article was written by local contributor Arianna Cooper & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Framingham, Massachusetts, is truly a hidden gem when it comes to dining options.
As someone who's been fortunate enough to call this town home, I've spent many evenings exploring the diverse and delicious local culinary scene.
From cozy cafes to bustling bistros, you'll find no shortage of mouthwatering meals waiting to be discovered.
Join me as I share the best restaurants in Framingham, Massachusetts, guaranteed to leave your taste buds singing for more.
Jack's Abby Craft Lagers
One of my favorite spots in town to unwind with friends and family is Jack's Abby Craft Lagers.
As a beer lover, I appreciate their vast selection of craft lagers that cater to every palette.
The food at Jack's Abby is equally impressive, with their pretzels being the standout for me - crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfectly paired with spicy mustard.
I've also tried their pizza, bratwurst plate, and schnitzel plate, and I can confidently say that the quality and flavor are always on point.
One thing I love about this place is the atmosphere - it's a laid-back microbrewery and tasting room with a beer garden, making it an ideal spot to chill and catch up with friends or spend time with family.
Plus, they're one of the few places in town that allow kids, which is a big plus for me.
In addition to their delicious food and beverages, they also have merchandise and beer for sale, so you can take home some of their fantastic brews.
The indoor dining area is spacious, and the outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying
Saxonville Burrito Company
Ever since I first tried Saxonville Burrito Company, it has become my go-to spot for a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner in the Framingham area.
One of the things I love about this place is how they cater to my dietary needs - as someone with IBS, it's a relief to find a Mexican restaurant that uses fresh, high-quality ingredients that don't leave me in pain.
Their menu offers a variety of options, from burritos to bowls, wings, and quesadillas, so there's always something new to try.
My personal favorite is the burrito bowl, loaded with all the toppings I want and topped off with their amazing mango salsa.
It might be a bit pricier than chain store alternatives, but the taste and quality are absolutely worth it.
Mazatlan Mexican Bar & Grill
I have to tell you about my experience at Mazatlan Mexican Bar & Grill last weekend.
It was such a delightful experience – the interior was bright and cheerful, and the service was simply exceptional.
We chose to sit at the bar, which had an impressive array of tequila and more TV screens than I could possibly watch.
Now, let's talk about the food.
I ordered a steak fajita burrito, and it was absolutely amazing!
Not to mention, it was huge and priced at just $13.1.
My son opted for the taco salad, and it was a hit for him as well.
Priced at $9.99, it was quite a steal.
One of the things that stood out to me was their separate section on the menu for vegetarians.
They offer a wide variety of options, ensuring that there's something for everyone.
My friend, who is a vegetarian, was thoroughly impressed by the food and the portion sizes.
In fact, we had to take some leftovers home in a box because we couldn't finish everything.
I also tried their Grand Marnier margarita, which was a perfect accompaniment to my meal.
J & M Diner
I just can't help but rave about this amazing breakfast spot in our town - J & M Diner.
This cheery diner with retro flair has quickly become my favorite go-to spot for breakfast and brunch.
The food, oh the food!
They've got an extensive menu with a range of unique offerings like sweet potato hash and Reuben omelet.
I love that they let you customize your meal and even offer healthier options like greens in place of carbs.
Their French toast is something I crave on a weekly basis.
Trust me, there's something for everyone here.
One thing to note is that J & M Diner can get quite busy, but don't worry!
They have a waitlist system in place, and I promise it's well worth the wait.
Just be sure your whole party is present when you arrive to be seated.
Also, the diner is tucked behind another building, so don't give up when looking for it - it's truly a hidden gem.
It's located near a hotel, so if you have friends or family visiting, it's the perfect place to take them for a delicious meal.
La Pupusa Loca Grille
I recently paid a visit to La Pupusa Loca Grille, a Salvadoran restaurant in the city, and I must say, the experience was truly amazing!
The food was so fresh and delicious that I couldn't help but recommend it to my friends and family.
When I walked in, I noticed the seating arrangement was mostly counter seating with a single two-top table.
This cozy setup added a unique charm to the place.
While waiting for my food, I saw a quesadilla being made, and it looked absolutely mouthwatering.
My son was entertained, watching the chef grill our dishes.
I ordered pupusas with pork and cheese, and they were scrumptious!
Although the place was pretty low-key, the food quality alone makes it worth visiting.
Mini Bites Factory Framingham
I recently visited Mini Bites Factory Framingham, a Brazilian restaurant in town, and I have to say, I absolutely love their mini-bites!
The service was quick, and the food was scrumptious, making it a perfect spot for a quick bite or to grab some appetizers for gatherings.
I've been there twice now, and on my last visit, I tried their churros, and they were tasty.
I love how the churros were full of filling that even spills at first bite.
Nutella has always been my go-to flavor, but I can't wait to try more next time.
Framingham Sub Shop & Pizza
One of my favorite places to grab a delicious meal in town is definitely Framingham Sub Shop & Pizza.
This cozy spot offers a wide variety of pizzas, sandwiches, chicken, and Italian dishes that never disappoint.
I frequently stop by for dinner and absolutely love their seafood pizza.
The quality and taste of their food are consistently top-notch.
Another standout dish at Framingham Sub Shop & Pizza is their Asian-style crispy fried chicken wings.
They're so good that I truly think they could rival Bonchon!
Oh, and if you're ever in the mood for a hearty steak, do yourself a favor and order the steak special with a side of onion rings.
It's hands down one of the best steaks I've ever had!
Lloyd's Diner
I'll never get tired of grabbing breakfast at Lloyd's Diner.
It may be a small place, but it's always packed with happy customers, and the food is just out of this world.
One of my favorite dishes to order is their Big Breakfast – it comes with 3 eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, and toast.
I'm always amazed by the generous portions they serve, especially the enormous side pancake!
It's no wonder Lloyd's attracts so many people every weekend.
As a word of advice, if you plan to go on a weekend, make sure to get there early to avoid the crowd.
But trust me, the delicious food and friendly atmosphere are so worth it!
Bourbon's Kitchen & Cocktails
I have to tell you about my recent visit to Bourbon's Kitchen & Cocktails in Framingham - it was fantastic!
I decided to meet up with a few friends for a casual night out, and Bourbon's turned out to be the perfect spot.
From the moment we walked in, I was impressed by the lively atmosphere and the incredible smell of their unique pub.
We started our meal with some sharable plates, including the popular Brussels sprouts appetizer, nachos, and pork belly tacos.
All of the dishes were absolutely delicious, and I appreciated the wide variety of gluten-free options available.
Along with the food, I ordered a bourbon-based cocktail that was just out of this world; I can't remember the name, but it was so tasty!
Though it was quite busy that night, they managed to make sure all of our needs were met.
One thing I must mention is the extensive bar menu, particularly their impressive selection of Old Fashioned cocktails.
I am definitely planning on going back to try more of their drink offerings.
Bertucci's Italian Restaurant
One of my favorite places to dine in Framingham is Bertucci's Italian Restaurant.
It's a kid-friendly chain that offers a variety of classic Italian meals, pizzas, and a great selection of cocktails, wine, and beer.
I often go there with my friends and family, as the atmosphere is always positive and enjoyable.
The other night, my partner and I went there for dinner, and we were quite impressed with the level of service we received even though we arrived close to closing time.
The food arrived quickly, was hot, delicious, and the restaurant itself was very clean.
One of my favorite dishes at Bertucci's is the sporkie pizza, which I often order when I'm out for a meal near the mall.
The brick oven pizza and rolls are unbeatable, and I'm always impressed by the quality of the ingredients they use.
I also appreciate that they offer a variety of vegetarian options, such as eggplant, roasted pepper, and mushroom pizza, which pairs perfectly with a salad and a glass of Sangria.
BR TakeOut
Just the other day, I decided to order from BR TakeOut, a local Brazilian restaurant in my neighborhood.
It's always a delightful experience!
Lately, I've been on a low-carb diet, so I asked the cashier for a meal suggestion.
She recommended the Chicken Quinoa Salad, which turned out to be a fantastic choice!
It's a scrumptious mix of grilled chicken, quinoa, lettuce, tomato, kale, cucumber, almonds, and seasonal fruit.
I asked for extra kale, and they were more than happy to accommodate my request.
I especially loved the addition of strawberries on top.
Franklin St Cafe
Just the other day, I decided to treat myself to a solo brunch at Franklin St Cafe, one of my favorite spots in the neighborhood.
I especially love coming here on weekday mornings, as it's never too busy and I can enjoy a quiet, relaxing meal.
The cafe's interior is always spotless, and they have both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Their little patio, tucked away from the street, is a hidden gem - calm, shaded, and peaceful.
Plus, the tables are spaced out just right, so you never feel like you're too close to other patrons.
I ordered my usual - a bold, flavorful coffee that never disappoints - and decided to try their waffles this time.
While I wish the waffles were made to order and hot, like the bacon and sausage I also had, they still tasted great.
The portion sizes and quality of the food are always on point, and I definitely feel like I get my money's worth whenever I eat here.
Silk Global Cuisine
I recently dined at Silk Global Cuisine, and it was a fantastic experience.
The Silk Global Cuisine menu offers a wide variety of Asian dishes, making it difficult to choose what to order.
I went with a group of friends, and we decided to order a lot of different items to share.
My personal favorite dish was the Miso-honey cod with jasmine rice and stir-fried veggies.
It was cooked to perfection!
The dessert options, such as the lime pie and cheesecake, were also phenomenal.
What stood out to me was how each dish had its distinct flavor, and everything tasted fresh and well-seasoned.
The prices were also surprisingly affordable, given the high quality of food and service.
Sam Sushi Art & Music
The first time I visited Sam Sushi Art & Music, I was blown away by the outstanding food and the excellent atmosphere.
Plus, the food presentation was adorable, and the drinks were amazing.
I remember trying Brazilian-style sushi for the first time at Sam's, and it was a game changer.
The ambiance is very inviting, and the live musicians they bring in are incredibly talented.
It's the little details that make this place stand out – from the decor and plating to the quality of dishware, everything is so well thought out.
One thing I appreciate about Sam Sushi Art & Music is their late hours.
It's one of the few establishments in the area that stays open late and doesn't close their kitchen early, making it a great spot for late-night dining.
It's a welcoming place for everyone – families, couples, and adults alike.
One of my personal favorites is their passionfruit caipirinha with sake.
It's a refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with their delicious sushi and expertly cooked fried calamari.
Aoi Japanese Restaurant
Last weekend, I visited Aoi Japanese Restaurant with my friends for a little get-together.
Upon entering, we were immediately drawn to the large mural that adorned the walls, setting a relaxed atmosphere for our dining experience.
We started off with some appetizers, and their fried oysters were absolutely divine!
Crispy and flavorful, it set the tone for the rest of the night.
I decided to try their sushi rolls, sampling the Uni, Saba, Ikura, and Eel.
I was not disappointed - every piece was fresh and delectable!
Green Leaf Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurant
I stumbled upon Green Leaf Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurant months ago, and let me tell you, I have become a regular ever since.
This simple and colorful restaurant specializes in vegan and vegetarian dishes, offering a wide variety of options for lunch, dinner, and brunch.
The food at Green Leaf is beyond amazing, and I cannot emphasize enough how incredible it is.
My friends also love this place just as much as I do.
No matter your preference, they'll have something for you.
The portion sizes are huge, and I always find myself eating the leftovers for days.
One of my favorite dishes is quinoa and vegetables; it is so flavorful that I can't wait to dig into the leftovers the next day.
The prices are great, too, considering the quality and quantity of food you get.
Mediterranean Turkish Cuisine
One of my favorite spots to grab a delicious and satisfying meal is Mediterranean Turkish Cuisine.
This mom-and-pop restaurant is a hidden gem, specializing in Halal Mediterranean-Turkish fares like falafel and gyros.
I remember my first visit, I went with my book club, and we decided to order a variety of appetizers and main dishes to share.
We ended up taking extra food to go because it was just that good!
The prices were very reasonable too - for a group of five, we only paid around $150.
One thing that really stood out to me was the chicken gyro.
My coworker tried it, and the smell alone was enough to make me crave one myself.
I gave in to my cravings the very next day and was not disappointed!
The gyro was everything I wanted and more.
Now I make it a point to try out different items on their menu every week, as everything looks and smells amazing.
The restaurant can get quite busy during lunchtime, but that's always a good sign of great food and service.
Just remember to save room for their baklava - it's a must-try!
The Buckley Kitchen & Bar
I recently decided to try out a new spot in town, The Buckley Kitchen & Bar.
It was indeed a great decision!
The moment I walked in, I was impressed with the cozy atmosphere and the industrial yet chic design.
The U-shaped bar was welcoming, and the big screen TVs added a nice touch.
The service was exceptional as well.
There was no wait time, and our food arrived within 15-20 minutes of ordering.
Even the restrooms were spotless, which is always a plus in my book.
Now, let's talk about the food.
The Pork Souvlaki was juicy and packed with flavor.
I also had a taste of the Chili, which was the Soup of the Day.
It was filling and tasted good.
The freshly made bread that came with the souvlaki and chili was a nice touch.
I also enjoyed their Burger with cheese and bacon – the bacon was thick and juicy, just the way I like it.
The sweet potato fries were out of this world.
They were crispy and tasted like the freshest potatoes ever.
Other restaurants nearby
Eli's Breakfast, Burgers, & Brews (Natick)
Discovering Eli's Breakfast, Burgers, & Brews has been one of the best things that happened to me.
I've visited this cozy little hamburger joint multiple times, and each visit has been nothing short of amazing.
Last weekend, I decided to treat a friend to a hearty brunch, and the wait wasn't too long, and we were promptly seated.
I ordered their famous Eggs Benedict and a veggie omelet, and boy, were the portions huge!
I couldn't help but eye the scrumptious-looking pancakes on the table next to me - I'm definitely ordering a stack on my next visit.
But wait, there's more!
My friend ordered an omelet with chorizo and jalapeños and another with truffle oil and mushrooms.
I had a taste of both, and I couldn't decide which one was better - they were so different yet equally delicious.
The buttered toasts that came with the omelets were divine as well, freshly baked and slathered with generous amounts of butter.
Rice Noodle Thai Eatery (Natick)
I've been living in this neighborhood for quite a while now, and one of my favorite spots to grab a bite is the Rice Noodle Thai Eatery.
Their website has made it extremely convenient for me to check out their menu and order takeout, which I often do.
The eatery itself has a cozy and clean atmosphere, making it a great place for dining as well.
I've tried quite a few dishes from their menu, and each one has been absolutely delicious.
Some of my personal favorites are the Curry Puffs, Vegetable Red Curry, Crispy Triangles, Chive Cakes, and Singapore Noodles.
One thing I appreciate about Rice Noodle Thai Eatery is their extensive vegetarian options.
It's not always easy to find Thai places that cater to vegetarians, so this is a huge plus for me.
The prices are quite affordable, which is another reason I keep coming back.
Oh, and you have to try their Thai drinks!
They're amazing and the perfect way to complete your meal.
Final Thoughts
I am grateful to have such a diverse range of delicious dining options right here in Framingham.
From the vibrant flavors of Mazatlan Mexican Bar & Grill to the comforting taste of a leisurely meal at The Buckley Kitchen & Bar, Framingham's restaurants never disappoint.
I look forward to continuing my culinary adventures in this wonderful town and can't wait to see what new and delicious experiences lie ahead.
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