5 Best Restaurants in East Boston, Boston

Colorful and airy, this East Boston Mexican restaurant reflects the culture of many living in the neighborhood, and its eponymous cook re-creates dishes from her native Puebla. Locals love it for its authenticity and extensive selection of small, snacky plates (mmm, queso fundido) and hearty main courses (chilaquiles, mole poblano). It's definitely worth the trip from downtown.

On this once industrial stretch of the Boston Harbor waterfront sits this gastropub, fittingly at the former site of the Cunard Steamship Company and Wharf. From within a contemporary and lively environment, peruse a Southern-inspired menu, regional craft beer, and wide windows that open onto the street. Nautical-themed embellishments harken back to local maritime history. In season, the roof deck opens, serving cocktails and great views.

Authentic Peruvian food is beautifully presented in a wonderfully warm and inviting space. Sip a much-talked-about pisco sour while perusing the menu, which includes traditionally prepared dishes, seafood and ceviche, and smaller plates called piqueos.

Stepping into this family-owned East Boston pizza joint is like stepping into the 1980s, even though it first opened way back in 1903. Every table is full on a Saturday night at 7 pm, and don't be surprised to see a line that runs out the cramped front doorway. This local favorite serves well-done and crispy, traditional style pies topped with veggies, ’chovies, garlic, and meat; the only other menu items are lamb, steak and chicken tips, and grilled sausages cooked over open hot coals in the corner.

One look at the neighborhood bar's menu will have you holding back belly laughs, even as it's grumbling with hunger. Plates are interesting and well thought-out, with a flair for Frito corn chips. Extensive whiskey menu. The space, which is long and lean, also boasts a shuffleboard, but you may have to wait in line to play it.