Take a look at many of the lists of Boston’s best restaurants, and you’ll see the same names over and over again. Many of these acclaimed spots really are good, but they’re often pricey, and once you’ve worked your way through another “best” list, you might be scratching your head over which one to visit next. Although I too get excited about the new, ultra-hyped, high-end restaurants popping up around the city, these frequently cited and consulted lists often miss the city’s best hidden gem restaurants.
Some of these spots in the greater Boston area are popular amongst in-the-know eaters, while others are more under the radar, attracting mostly neighborhood locals who stop by for takeout on their way home from work. Either way, after dining at them myself, I think of the spots on this list are worth checking out if you want to expand your palate beyond the Michelin-recommended, list-topping spots you see on every best Boston restaurants list. And who knows? Maybe eating at some of these places will inspire you to find your own Boston hidden restaurant gems — there are plenty of them to discover in the city.
Elmendorf Baking Supplies and Cafe
East Cambridge, located just minutes from downtown Boston, may not be known as one of the city’s food hubs, but maybe that should change. One of the standout restaurants in the neighborhood is Elmendorf. It’s really not much of a sit-down spot, unless you manage to snag one of the few seats that looks out onto busy Cambridge Street, but it’s absolutely one of the best places to go in the city for a top-notch breakfast sandwich or pastry. They’re all made in-house with freshly milled flour, and upon the first bite of whatever you order, you can taste that you’re getting exceptional quality. Grab a coffee, tea, or other warm beverage to enjoy with your treat, and you’ll see why Elmendorf is one of my top hidden gem picks in the city.
The selections available at Elmendorf change frequently, as the cafe often features a variety of seasonal items. Your best bet is to pop in on a sunny morning, pick what looks best, and grab a seat at a nearby park (there are many in East Cambridge) to enjoy your breakfast. And if you’re a baker yourself, make sure to check out the store’s wide selection of fresh flours and other high-end baking supplies…