The Kensington Dines Out: Our Five Favorite Local Food Haunts in Boston

The Kensington Dines Out: Our Five Favorite Local Food Haunts in Boston

Whether you’re a genuine foodie or merely a fan of cheap eats, Boston has all sorts of dining options to fit your tastes. Here’s a look at our five favorite nearby restaurants, all within a brief stroll of The Kensington.

Meaty. Feeling carnivorous? Stroll a few blocks down Washington Street to Temple Place and you’ll land at JM Curley. It earned “Best of Boston” recognition soon after opening, and residents of The Kensington are still raving about it. With features like wild boar, braised rabbit and gourmet burgers, the menu is a meat-lovers delight. A relaxed atmosphere and tastefully spare décor only add to the flavor. 21 Temple Place. 617-338-5333.

Gourmet. Savor haute cuisine in a rich historic setting at No. 9 Park. Flavorful dishes, an impressive wine list, the glitter of chandeliers and gleam of polished wood all come together for the ideal dining experience – which is why No. 9 consistently earns accolades from Boston’s toughest food critics. Be sure to reserve your table in advance. 9 Park Street (of course). 617-742-9991.

High-end Hip. Many locals consider L’Espalier to be the best restaurant in Boston — and for good reason. Is it the exceptional service? The mouthwatering menu? The tasteful décor? It’s all that and more. Whether you’re wooing a client or paramour, or simply looking to escape into an amazing meal all on your own, L’Espalier is the place to be. 774 Boylston Street. 617-262-3023.

Hidden Gem. The Gourmet Dumpling House is so off the map, they don’t even have a working website. Prepare to wait in line and shrug off less-than-stellar service — it’s all worth it for melt-in-your-mouth dumplings like you’ve never experienced. And your wallet will barely know you were there. 52 Beach Street. 617-338-6223.

Neighborhood Feel-good. Who knew craft beers and mac ‘n’ cheese went so well together? And don’t even get us started on the clam chowdah. Folks come to Silvertone near Downtown Crossing for excellent comfort food in a deliciously comfy space, and they settle in for the night. The desserts are delightful, and the music’s fun, too. 69 Bromfield Street. 617-338-7887.

Your greatest obstacle to indulging in these spots? The distraction of the countless other terrific restaurants you’ll have to pass along the way. Bon appétit!