Lunch. An old pal. Something our mothers used to pack for us in trusty brown bags and trendy Target pouches with ice packs. Whether unluckily or not (to each his/her own) we adults no longer have the same luxuries. More often than not, this leaves us packing our own slightly disappointing leftovers that we pray no one thieves and relying on that sad granola bar collecting dust at the bottom of our desks.
For those who would rather spend an extra ten minutes in bed each morning, impress a business partner flying in from Shanghai, or simply bask in the nostalgia of having someone else prepare our most anticipated meal of the day, listed below are some of our most beloved tried and true lunch spots. From holes in the wall you should think twice about passing up, to debonair eateries — here are our favorite lunch spots that will have you tying your napkins ‘round your necks.
Paul
(One Boston Place, Boston, MA 02108) — 0.0 in, In the same building
As a European chain of grandiose cafes, Paul tends to be intimidating and inviting all at once. With it’s high ceilings and classic decor, it is sure to be a reliable spot for casual lunch meeting with friends or even a grab-n-go soup and salad run on your 15 minute break. And you couldn’t ask for a more convenient location.
A favorite: French Onion Soup
Viga Italian Eatery
(245-275 Washington St, Boston, MA 02108) — 278.9 ft, 1 minute walk
As far as we’re concerned, Viga is the go-to for a quick and reliable lunch on the go. This no-frills Italian eatery can seem packed at peak times, but it is always sure to have you walking out with a warm panini or a huge slice of pizza (or both for true happiness) in less than 10 minutes and for less than $8.
A favorite: A Make-Your-Own-Panini on a French baguette with pesto, balsamic, tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and grilled chicken
Clover Food Lab
(27 School St, Boston, MA 02201) — 0.1 mi, 2 minute walk
Clover is sure to deliver a casual yet fun experience to the adventurous lunch-goer. With a menu that boasts a hip fusion of organic veggies, teas, and now even beer, you’re sure to get a surprise in every bite as there are even people to help you pair and understand all of your Clover options!
A favorite: BBQ Seitan Platter with a Jack’s Abby Haus Beer
Sweetgreen
(13 School Street, Boston, MA 02108) — 0.1 mi, 2 minute walk
While Sweetgreen may not be new in town, it’s definitely a new kid on the block that has been most favorably received by the more health-conscious lunch crowd. Though a salad can set you back about $10 and the place is usually always packed, don’t let it kale your vibe by simply ordering online and scooping your handcrafted salad at a designated time.
A favorite: Beets Don’t Kale My Vibe
Oceanaire
(40 Court Street, Boston, MA 02108) — 0.1 mi, 2 minute walk
Enjoy an upscale liquid lunch with an entree on the side at this lavish cavern of Boston’s freshest seafood. Oceanaire is known for impressing visitors and consistently satisfying its regulars.
A favorite: Wild Alaska Coho Salmon
Ruth’s Chris
(45 School Street, Old City Hall, Boston, MA 02108) — 0.1 mi, 2 minute walk
Known to many celebrities around the country, Ruth’s Chris is popular for its juicy steaks and classic cocktails with a twist. Stop by this elegantly cozy restaurant for its lunch specials and sports tv near the bar.
A favorite: Lobster Bisque with a New York Strip and a Moscow Mule (shaken, not stirred)
Al’s State Street Cafe
(112 State Street, Boston, MA 02109) — 0.2 mi, 4 minute walk
While nothing impressive from the outside, Al’s is a neighborhood favorite that always keeps everyone coming back for its well known steak and cheese sandwiches. Grab a sub and walk another five minutes to sit on a bench near the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park!
A favorite: Steak Bellino with Cheese
Saus
(33 Union Street, Boston, MA 02108) — 0.2 mi, 5 minute walk
With a nod of approval from visiting Canadians, Saus’ poutine knocks it straight out of the park (Rogers Centre in this case, sorry Fenway).Though a seemingly small and dark nook wedged in between more famous foodie namesakes, this place will have you happily loosening the notches on your belt and dreading the short walk back to the office.
A favorite: Deep-Fried Egg Poutine with Rekorderlig Premium Pear Hard Cider
Boston Public Market
(100 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02108) — 0.4 mi, 8 minute walk
Welcomed to the North End neighborhood close to a year ago, BPM has quickly become a foodie safe haven / destination. It is full of local and organic vendors of everything from homemade ice cream to sandwiches, food platters and more. You can think of BPM as the less crowded and more trendy Faneuil Hall, complete with its very own farmer’s market outside. So can we say hallelujah to not having to go food shopping after work when all we really want to do is settle down with some wine and leftover cider donuts?
A favorite: Beantown Pastrami Company’s hand carved Pastrami Sandwich with a side of Appleton Farm’s Mini Apple Cider Donuts
Pauli’s
(65 Salem Street, Boston, MA 02113) — 0.4 mi, 9 minute walk
Whenever I get foreign visitors from my homeland of New Jerseytopia, the one request I always receive is for some good ole-fashioned Boston lobst(ah) rolls. As a Boston resident for about three years now, I felt as though it was my duty to relinquish my go-to Faneuil Hall training wheels, and find the real deal. Fast forward through a few failed attempts to where I accidentally stumbled upon Pauli’s during one of my lunch time power walks. I walked out with THE biggest lobst(ah) roll I’ve seen slathered in butter with a trusty bag of Cape Cod chips on the side, and strode into the metaphorical sunset.
A favorite: Lobster Roll tossed in Hot Butter with Lobsta Mac & Cheese
Bon Appetit!
By: Aly Garcia