When planning a trip to Boston, be sure to try these three distinctive local dishes that will leave a memorable taste.

Here are the signature dishes of Boston recognized by both locals and travelers.

Lobster Roll

There's a saying, "Lobster is Maine, but lobster roll is Boston," and Bostonians are serious about this dish, which is filled with lobster meat mixed with butter or mayonnaise in a toasted bun. The small eatery in the North End, Neptune Oyster, is a famous spot, known for its long lines during lunch hours. When the plump claw meat and tender tail fill your mouth, the unique sweet and salty sea aroma of the New England coast comes alive.

Boston Cream Pie

Despite its name, it's actually a 'cake' filled with vanilla custard between two layers of sponge cake, topped with chocolate ganache. Born in 1856 at the Omni Parker House hotel, it was designated as the official dessert of Massachusetts in 1996, symbolizing the sweetness of Boston. The moist exterior and soft whipped cream and custard filling make it a perfect dessert after a meal. If you want to taste the original, I recommend the café on the first floor of the Parker House hotel. 

New England Clam Chowder

The clam chowder, with its white and creamy soup filled with potatoes, celery, and clams, represents Boston as a 'bowl of the sea.' This recipe evolved from what 19th-century sailors made to replenish their nutrition during cold voyages. The Union Oyster House, located on the Freedom Trail, has been serving this chowder to guests since 1826. When you dip bread and savor every last drop, you can't help but feel, "Ah, I've really come to Boston!"

Summary at a Glance

  • Clam Chowder: Experience the rich seafood flavor at the historic restaurants on the Freedom Trail.

  • Lobster Roll: A golden combination of crispy bun and filled lobster, a popular dish in the North End.

  • Boston Cream Pie: A sweetness that blurs the line between cake and pie, taste the original at the Parker House.

Tasting these three dishes, infused with the history of Boston's streets, will definitely enhance your travel satisfaction.

Start with warm clam chowder, fill up with a lobster roll, and finish with a sweet cream pie.