20 Best Restaurants in Medford, MA
This article was written by local contributor Joshua Garcia & edited by the Travel Lens team.
From cozy cafes and family-owned eateries to elegant dining spots, Medford's restaurant scene has something for everyone.
I've carefully curated a list of my absolute favorite dining establishments, giving you an insider's guide to the best restaurants in Medford, Massachusetts.
So, whether you're a local or just visiting, let me take you on a gastronomic tour of this lovely city.
Kushari & Grill
As a fan of Egyptian cuisine, I was excited to try out Kushari & Grill in my neighborhood.
I've heard great things about their halal dishes and made it a point to visit them for a meal.
I was not disappointed!
The rotisserie chicken I had was cooked to perfection and served with amazing hummus, garlic sauce, salad, and my choice of rice or fries.
I opted for the fries, which were crispy and delicious.
On another visit, I tried their hawawshi, which was also fantastic.
The bread had a nice crunch on the outside, while the meat inside was juicy and tender.
I also had the chance to taste their kushari, which was an interesting mix of pasta, rice, and sweet red sauce.
It wasn't my favorite, but I know others who loved it.
I highly recommend trying their falafels, as they were rich with flavors and complemented the other dishes very well.
As a local, I appreciate that Kushari & Grill is open late, making it a convenient spot for a late-night dinner.
The service is fast, and there's ample space for dining as well as street parking.
I can't wait to go back and try the rest of their menu!
Pikaichi Ramen
I absolutely love going to Pikaichi Ramen whenever I'm in the mood for some delicious ramen.
The casual space has a minimalistic interior, but it's really effective in setting a relaxed atmosphere.
One of my favorite dishes to order is the Spicy Miso with a whole egg and extra veggie oil.
The flavors are incredible, and I always pair it with a delicious plum soda to complement the ramen.
The menu may be small, but the options are just right – it's all about quality over quantity here.
What I really enjoy about Pikaichi Ramen is that the kitchen is front and center, so I can see the ramen being made fresh right before my eyes.
Whenever I visit with my friends, we all agree that this place is one of the best ramen spots in the greater Boston area.
And if you get a chance, make sure to try their special sodas – they're packed with sugar but taste amazing!
Even though the place can get busy and there's sometimes a wait, it's always worth it in the end.
The Magnificent Muffin & Bagel Shoppe
One of my favorite weekend routines is to visit The Magnificent Muffin & Bagel Shoppe in Medford.
This cozy neighborhood counter-serve joint is my go-to spot for breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
One thing I've noticed is that it's a place where all the locals go, and everyone seems to know each other – it's just that kind of welcoming atmosphere.
What really attracted me to The Magnificent Muffin & Bagel Shoppe is their delectable selection of bagels and their perfectly cooked eggs.
I absolutely love their bacon, egg, and cheese on a bagel – they actually give you over-easy eggs when you ask, unlike most places that only do hard eggs.
And their big English muffin breakfast sandwiches are to die for!
Not to mention, the assortment of bagels is fantastic.
Usually, there's no wait, and most takeout orders are ready upon arrival.
I've also tried their scones, which are quite tasty.
Pho Town 7
The other day, I decided to try out Pho Town 7.
My experience was quite delightful!
The warm and friendly service instantly made me feel at home, and their reasonably priced dishes made it an even better find.
I went with my mother, and we both absolutely loved the flavors that Pho Town 7 offered.
Their pho was outstanding, and the rice dishes were incredibly tasty.
We couldn't help but indulge in their passionfruit bubble tea - a refreshing addition to our meals.
I also discovered my new obsession - their beef avocado rolls.
It's safe to say that Pho Town 7 has earned a spot as one of my favorite places to eat.
Fioritaly Trattoria
A few weeks ago, I finally had the pleasure of dining at Fioritaly Trattoria, and I must say, it was an experience I won't forget!
As a lover of Italian cuisine, I've been eager to try this place for quite some time, and it surpassed my expectations.
The restaurant, located on a quiet street, was bustling with activity on the night of my visit.
We started our meal with the zucchini appetizer, which was delectable and generous in portion.
For the main course, I indulged in the basil tomato gnocchi – the flavors were heavenly, and the pasta was cooked to perfection.
I must mention the lamb chops my companion ordered; they were tender and packed with flavor.
One cannot leave an Italian restaurant without trying their tiramisu, and Fioritaly Trattoria's version did not disappoint.
It was the perfect ending to an exquisite meal.
Nappi's Restaurant
I have been a regular at Nappi's Restaurant for years now, and it's by far the best cozy Italian spot in town.
I absolutely love their red-sauce classics with a homey twist.
The cash-only BYOB policy adds a unique charm to this place, and it's always a pleasure to enjoy a lovely meal here.
One of my favorite things about Nappi's is the fact that they do not have a formal dinner menu.
I recently had their Spaghetti Carbonara, which was cooked to perfection with just the right amount of onions.
The chicken dishes here are incredible, especially the chicken Francese.
The tenderness and flavor are simply unbeatable.
And don't get me started on the jack shrimp – it's just divine!
La Cascia's Bakery
Just the other day, I decided to stop by La Cascia's Bakery after hearing so many good things from my coworkers who had enjoyed their catering.
I was surprised to find that it was not just a bakery but also a deli with a variety of sandwiches, pizzas, and pastries.
I couldn't resist the temptation and ended up ordering a steak sub, arancini, Tiramisu, cheesecake, and a few other treats to share with my family.
Upon entering the shop, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but marvel at the amazing pizza – the sweet tomato sauce and perfect cheese-to-sauce ratio made it one of the best slices I've had in a long time.
Not to mention the bakery side of things – the chocolate cake was unbelievably decadent and left me craving more.
For Pizza
Oh man, I cannot rave enough about For Pizza!
It has become my go-to pizza place in the neighborhood.
I remember the first time I tried their vegan option, Carl Called, and I was completely blown away.
The crust has the perfect balance of thickness and thinness, the sauce is just oozing with flavor, and the toppings are cooked to perfection.
The crew at For Pizza are not only super talented but also fun and imaginative.
Their passion for creating mouthwatering pizzas is so contagious that it makes me look forward to my next visit.
I've tried their South Shore bar pizza style, and it's definitely worth every bite.
The edges are crispy, and the cheese and oils go right up to the edge.
It's a unique experience that I've only found at For Pizza, and I couldn't be happier with my discovery.
Not only is the food amazing, but the service is top-notch, too.
The last time I was there, I was in a hurry, and they prepared my pizza in just 15 minutes!
Classic Cafe Medford
One of my favorite spots to grab breakfast in town has to be Classic Cafe Medford.
I remember going there after a night shift once, and the place was an absolute lifesaver!
The food is your standard diner fare, but it's consistently good – their waffles and fruit bowls are to die for.
I'm a big fan of the all-day breakfast options, too, like the pancakes and the Salmon Avocado sandwich.
What really sets Classic Cafe Medford apart is the outstanding service.
El Vaquero Mexican Taqueria
I've had my fair share of Mexican cuisine.
But when I stumbled upon El Vaquero Mexican Taqueria, I was blown away.
I decided to order the Chicken Asado Bowl to-go and asked for it to be spicy.
When I picked up my order, I was pleased to find that the food was still very fresh.
The flavors were absolutely amazing, and it had just the right amount of heat.
Recently, I've heard great things about their other dishes, so I decided to gather some friends and try their tacos birria, shrimp, and the lamb tacos.
I wasn't disappointed - each dish was packed with flavor and left us wanting more.
Plus, the prices were so reasonable that we didn't have to worry about breaking the bank.
The next time I visited, I tried the tamale plate, which came with tamales, rice, and beans.
The tamales were freshly made, moist, and incredibly flavorful.
Picante Taqueria
Finding authentic Mexican food can be quite a challenge.
That is until I stumbled upon Picante Taqueria.
The moment I walked in, I was impressed by the interior design.
They've managed to create a stylish and modern space while still incorporating Mexican elements throughout.
My first time trying their Carne Asada plate was a delightful experience.
The steak was tender and well-seasoned, though a bit on the thin side.
The Mexican meal combo sides were all fresh and flavorful, but be aware that you'll need to pay an extra two bucks for guacamole.
Despite the portion size looking just alright, I found myself wanting more.
I also gave their steak tacos a shot, and I absolutely enjoyed the way they were seasoned.
Casa Pizza
I can't tell you how many times I've heard good things about Casa Pizza in our neighborhood.
One fateful night, when cravings hit after a late night at work, I finally decided to give this place a chance.
And let me tell you, it lived up to the hype!
The guys working there were polite, and my pizza was hot and ready for me when I arrived.
I couldn't help but snap a quick photo of the mouthwatering meatzza they crafted for me.
I've even heard from other locals that their vegetarian pizza is a real treat, with a variety of options and a crispy crust that's to die for.
I've also learned that the prices at Casa Pizza are quite reasonable, especially for the large 16" pizzas.
The menu boasts a plethora of options, so there's something for everyone.
What I enjoy the most about this gem is the variety of slices they offer daily, from classic cheese to more adventurous options like buffalo chicken.
Paul Revere Restaurant
One of my favorite weekend morning routines is heading to Paul Revere Restaurant for a delicious and satisfying brunch.
Their French toast is absolutely divine and always hits the spot.
The cozy diner, located in downtown Medford, is easily accessible by car or bus, making it a convenient choice for a meal.
I love that the moment I walk in, I'm greeted with warm smiles and open seating.
The quick service is impressive, and the generous portion sizes make the food taste even better.
The prices are unbeatable, and with such a diverse menu, everyone in my family can find something they enjoy.
The kids menu, in particular, is both sizeable and affordable, ensuring that the little ones can enjoy a hearty meal as well.
The Irish Benny and Paul Revere are my go-to dishes, and I always end up needing a box to take home the leftovers.
Semolina Kitchen & Bar
I recently discovered an incredible spot in my neighborhood called Semolina Kitchen & Bar.
This relaxed, timber-clad eatery offers a variety of wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta dishes, and an impressive selection of rotating beers and wines.
As soon as I walked in, I was struck by the romantic topiary dining area and the abundance of natural light that filled the space, giving it an open and bright atmosphere.
They were quick to offer refills, and every person I interacted with was genuinely delightful.
I decided to indulge in their amazing Caesar salad, which I paired with an equally incredible tuna salad.
I couldn't have been happier with my meal choice.
My new favorite Italian restaurant in the Boston area, Semolina Kitchen & Bar also has a great atmosphere, complete with the Great British Bake Off playing in the background.
Their cheesy bread and fresh pasta dishes, especially the ones served with white wine sauce, are to die for.
And you absolutely must save room for their divine bread pudding—it’s a game-changer.
Bocelli's
Last Friday, my friends and I decided to try out Bocelli's for a much-needed catch-up dinner.
As a neighborhood fixture with a full bar, we were excited to experience the extensive menu of Italian dishes, including pizzas.
Upon entering, we immediately noticed the nice local restaurant and bar atmosphere.
We started our meal with some appetizers to share - the calamari was a hit at our table!
As for the main course, I opted for one of their signature pasta dishes, which exceeded my expectations.
My friends indulged in some pizza, which they said was excellent and very reasonably priced.
One thing that stood out to us was their dessert selection, specifically the Tiramisu.
Being a Tiramisu aficionado, I can confidently say that Bocelli's version is one of the best I've had in town.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Dave's Fresh Pasta (Somerville)
I have always been a fan of Dave's Fresh Pasta website.
This cozy little spot is my go-to for handmade pasta and gourmet groceries, not to mention their delicious wine and sandwiches.
They are always so kind and helpful, especially to newcomers.
Their sandwiches are absolutely divine.
Even though the store often gets busy, it's totally worth the wait.
My all-time favorite is the grilled Caprese sandwich.
It's perfectly seasoned, and the pesto is out of this world.
The portion size is very generous, and it's always incredibly filling.
As a vegetarian, I really appreciate the option to build my own sub or customize any of their offerings to make them meatless.
American Flatbread (Somerville)
I have to say, American Flatbread has quickly become one of my favorite pizza spots in town.
I remember the first time I walked in, I was a bit surprised to find out it was part of a bowling alley.
But let me tell you, it works really well and adds to the overall unique ambiance.
The wood-fired pizzas with organic ingredients and free-range meats are truly something to talk about.
You can taste the quality of the ingredients in every bite.
I've tried the Punctuated Equilibrium pizza, and while I would have preferred a crispier crust, the flavors, and toppings were phenomenal.
The bar overlooking the bowling alley offers a great selection of cocktails, and I've come to enjoy the rotating seasonal menu.
My personal favorite pizza has got to be the pepperoni and peppers – it's become a go-to dish for me in the area.
Tu y Yo (Somerville)
Let me tell you about my recent visit to Tu y Yo – a delightful little gem hidden in our neighborhood.
Tu y Yo's slow-cooked dishes left me amazed and craving more!
I decided on tamales, fried plantains, and Pechugas en Salsa de Chile Poblano.
Everything arrived hot, fresh, and seasoned to perfection.
The tamales were incredibly moist, and the fried plantains were a perfect starter to my meal.
One of the highlights was their in-house hot sauce, which added a flavorful kick to my dishes.
I also tried their horchata, a spicy and delicious drink that was a tad too sweet for my liking but still enjoyable.
I can't wait to come back and try some of their other dishes and desserts, especially since I've heard great things about their avocado cheesecake.
I'm also eager to check out their brunch menu next time.
True Bistro (Somerville)
As a resident of the area, I have had the pleasure of dining at True Bistro on multiple occasions.
This sleek, candlelit spot specializes in innovative, globally inspired vegan fare with weekend brunch options.
Every time I visit, I am amazed by the creativity and deliciousness of their plant-based dishes.
One memorable visit was during my birthday celebration, where I got to indulge in a variety of dishes that were all completely plant-based.
The menu may be limited, but the variety of the dishes more than makes up for it.
The vegan desserts were exceptional, particularly the cheesecake with chai spices.
It struck the perfect balance of sweetness with a spicy kick at the end.
Even my non-vegan friends have enjoyed their experience at True Bistro.
They have tried dishes like the waffle with 'buttermilk' tofu, a Spanish omelet, and a side of Mac and 'cheese.
' The waffle was a standout for them, and they would definitely have it again.
Don Julio Restaurant (Somerville)
One of my favorite places to visit when I'm craving Mexican food is Don Julio Restaurant.
This cozy spot serves traditional Peruvian meat and fish dishes in a relaxed setting with vibrant decor that makes you feel right at home.
The last time I went to Don Julio's, I ordered their birria taco combo, which comes with three tacos, a salad, and rice.
The portion size was perfect, and I was thoroughly impressed with how delicious and flavorful every bite was.
My friend opted for the steak enchiladas mexicana, which came with refried beans and rice, and she was not disappointed either.
Another great thing about Don Julio's is their affordable pricing.
I remember checking their prices on Ubereats and then realizing that it's actually cheaper to order directly from their website.
So, if you're looking to save a few bucks, I would suggest ordering straight from their site.
Final Thoughts
I must say that Medford has an incredible variety of delicious and unique restaurants to offer.
Each time I dine out in this lovely city, I am constantly amazed by the diverse culinary experiences that await me.
From authentic Italian at Fioritaly Trattoria to mouthwatering Mexican at El Vaquero Taqueria, the options are endless.
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