Boston may not have quite the same foodie vibe as NYC or San Francisco, but it definitely has some amazing restaurants. I get a lot of comments on Instagram (usually after I post pictures going food crazy at brunch or dinner) asking for recommendations for places here in the city. I thought it would be fun to share with you guys 3 of the best restaurants in Boston that you can visit this weekend for Valentine’s Day if you’re local (with friends or a loved one) or check out if you’re ever in town. Take a look at 3 potential evenings and pick the one you think suits you best!
Trade
Trade is the perfect hang-out spot for you and your friends. I know Valentine’s Day isn’t for everyone and if you’re looking for more of a fun, trendy spot to check out, Trade is for you. This restaurant is in a really cool location bordering the Financial district and the bridge over to Boston’s Seaport. The place is really bright and airy and overall it has a great atmosphere.
I went here with my friend and we devoured a baby beet salad, followed by a delicious avocado dish layered with a mango-tamarind chutney. We also had some tasty roasted sweet potatoes, succulent chicken meatballs and of course, some fresh bread. The cocktails were really good and the chocolate layer cake with coconut butter cream frosting was incredible! (see the pic above!) I also love that they have a great variety of small plates perfect for sharing; you really can’t go wrong here.
Bar Boulud
Bar Boulud is a great place for a relaxing V-Day Lunch. This restaurant is located right in the middle of a pretty touristy area. You won’t miss it when you’re walking by Boylston street because it’s right inside the beautiful Mandarin Oriental hotel. Chef Kilroy will be offering a special three-course prix fixe dinner menu on Saturday and Sunday (Valentine’s Weekend).
I had the chance to try a delicious roasted carrot salad, then had an amazing Saffron risotto for my main dish. Of course, I had to get dessert (which I do almost every time I go out to eat) so I opted for the almond cake with coconut meringue, and an incredible balsamic sorbet accompanied by a glass of champagne. Tons of variety here and also some great oyster selections if that’s your thing.
Bistro Du Midi
If you are looking to have a beautiful romantic date night with your Valentine, Bistro Du Midi is for you. I love a romantic night out as much as the next girl, but I definitely love to eat when I do it! Bistro Du Midi has a wonderful atmosphere and it’s right across the street from the Boston Common (the main park here in downtown Boston). I love French food so this is my go-to spot if I’m craving some cuisine to bring back memories of Paris.
They also have a special menu for Valentine’s day. We started out with a venison tartar and a seared foie gras (with chocolate truffle!) both appetizers were extremely tasty. I followed that up with the duck breast with sweet potatoes and almonds (you always have to try duck at a French restaurant) and then, of course, chocolate and ice cream for dessert. The drinks were great too. We had a Refashioned and a Jalisco Sour (taller glass). Truly an unbelievable meal from start to finish.
I hope you guys enjoyed this list, let me know if you have any questions and please tell me your favorite places! I’m always looking for new recommendations.
Photos by Regan Cleminson.
