Nestled within the historic and picturesque town of Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, a haven of culinary artistry awaits discerning diners. This affluent neighborhood boasts an array of exceptional restaurants, each offering a unique and memorable gastronomic experience. From elegant steakhouses to intimate bistros and vibrant ethnic eateries, Chestnut Hill’s restaurant scene caters to every palate and preference. In this article, we will explore the 10 best restaurants in Chestnut Hill, their must-try meals, average cost, operating hours, and user experiences.
The Capital Grille: Embark on a Journey of Culinary Excellence
Address: 250 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 928-1400
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11:30am-10pm, Sunday: 5pm-9pm
Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google, 4.7/5 on OpenTable, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, Dry-Aged Steaks, Roasted Bone Marrow
Average Cost: $50-$100 per person
Website: https://www.thecapitalgrille.com/locations/ma/chestnut-hill/chestnut-hill/8032
Menu: https://www.thecapitalgrille.com/menu-listing/dinner
Embark on a journey of culinary excellence at The Capital Grille, a renowned establishment that exudes sophistication and impeccable service. Step into an ambiance reminiscent of a classic American steakhouse, where polished wood paneling, plush leather seating, and dim lighting create an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
Indulge in Succulent Appetizers and Prime Steaks
Begin your culinary odyssey with tantalizing appetizers like the succulent jumbo lump crab cake or the indulgent roasted bone marrow. These dishes are perfect for sharing and will leave your taste buds wanting more. The crab cake is made with fresh, jumbo lump crab meat and served with a tangy remoulade sauce, while the roasted bone marrow is rich and buttery, served with a side of crusty bread.
The main event, of course, is the selection of prime steaks, dry-aged for a minimum of 28 days and grilled to perfection. Indulge in the tender filet mignon, the robust New York strip, or the flavorful ribeye, each masterfully seasoned and cooked to your desired doneness. The Capital Grille also offers a variety of sauces and toppings to enhance the flavor of your steak, such as truffle butter, porcini rub, and balsamic glaze.
Pair Your Meal with an Extensive Wine List
No meal at The Capital Grille is complete without a glass of wine. Their extensive wine list boasts over 350 labels from around the world, ensuring the perfect pairing for your meal. From bold reds to crisp whites, their knowledgeable sommeliers can recommend the perfect wine to complement your dish.
Bernard’s: A Cozy Bistro with French-Inspired Cuisine
Address: 55 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 738-3388
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 5pm-10pm, Sunday: Closed
Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google, 4.7/5 on OpenTable, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: Escargots de Bourgogne, Steak Frites, Crème Brûlée
Average Cost: $30-$50 per person
Website: https://www.bernardschestnuthill.com/
Menu: https://www.bernardschestnuthill.com/menu
Located in the heart of Chestnut Hill, Bernard’s is a cozy bistro that offers French-inspired cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant is named after its owner and chef, Bernard Bouissou, who brings his passion for French cooking to every dish.
Start Your Meal with Classic French Appetizers
Bernard’s menu features classic French dishes such as escargots de Bourgogne, a traditional appetizer of snails cooked in garlic butter and served with crusty bread. Other must-try appetizers include the pâté de campagne, a rustic country-style pâté served with cornichons and Dijon mustard, and the soupe à l’oignon gratinée, a hearty onion soup topped with melted Gruyere cheese.
Indulge in Steak Frites and Crème Brûlée
For the main course, try their signature steak frites, a juicy hanger steak served with crispy French fries and a side of béarnaise sauce. The steak is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Another popular dish is the coq au vin, a classic French stew made with chicken, bacon, mushrooms, and red wine. And no meal at Bernard’s is complete without their famous crème brûlée, a rich and creamy custard topped with a layer of caramelized sugar.
MANDARIN GOURMET: Authentic Chinese Cuisine in a Modern Setting
Address: 220 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 928-3388
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11am-10pm, Sunday: 12pm-10pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on Google, 4.6/5 on OpenTable, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: Peking Duck, General Tso’s Chicken, Szechuan Beef
Average Cost: $20-$30 per person
Website: https://www.mandaringourmetchestnuthill.com/
Menu: https://www.mandaringourmetchestnuthill.com/menu
For those craving authentic Chinese cuisine, MANDARIN GOURMET is the place to go. This modern restaurant offers a wide selection of traditional Chinese dishes, as well as some unique and creative twists on classic favorites.
Start with Dim Sum and Dumplings
Start your meal with some dim sum, small bite-sized portions of food served in steamer baskets. MANDARIN GOURMET offers a variety of dim sum options, including shrimp dumplings, pork buns, and sticky rice wrapped in lotus leaves. Another popular appetizer is their pan-fried dumplings, filled with either pork or vegetable and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Try Their Famous Peking Duck
One of the must-try dishes at MANDARIN GOURMET is their Peking duck, a traditional Chinese dish that has been perfected by their chefs. The duck is roasted to perfection, with crispy skin and tender meat, and served with pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce. Other popular dishes include General Tso’s chicken, a sweet and spicy dish made with chunks of fried chicken, and Szechuan beef, a spicy stir-fry dish with tender strips of beef and vegetables.
Sandwich Works: A Casual Spot for Delicious Sandwiches
Address: 827 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 731-3283
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 10am-8pm, Sunday: Closed
Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google, 4.7/5 on Yelp, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: The Works Sandwich, Lobster Roll, Chicken Caesar Wrap
Average Cost: $10-$15 per person
Website: https://www.sandwichworks.net/
Menu: https://www.sandwichworks.net/menu
For a quick and delicious meal, head to Sandwich Works. This casual spot offers a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and salads made with fresh ingredients and served in generous portions.
Build Your Own Sandwich or Try Their Signature Creations
At Sandwich Works, you can build your own sandwich by choosing from a variety of bread, meats, cheeses, and toppings. Or, you can try one of their signature creations, such as The Works Sandwich, made with turkey, roast beef, ham, Swiss cheese, and all the fixings. Another popular option is their lobster roll, filled with chunks of fresh lobster meat and served on a buttery roll.
Don’t Miss Their Chicken Caesar Wrap and Homemade Soups
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try their chicken Caesar wrap, made with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing. It’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures. And don’t forget to pair your sandwich with one of their homemade soups, such as clam chowder or chicken noodle.
Putterham Grille: A Neighborhood Favorite for American Comfort Food
Address: 1012 West Roxbury Pkwy, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 327-2202
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11am-9pm, Sunday: 12pm-9pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on Google, 4.6/5 on Yelp, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: Fish and Chips, Chicken Parmesan, Lobster Mac and Cheese
Average Cost: $20-$30 per person
Website: http://www.putterhamgrille.com/
Menu: http://www.putterhamgrille.com/menu
Putterham Grille is a neighborhood favorite for its cozy atmosphere and delicious American comfort food. The restaurant has been serving the Chestnut Hill community for over 25 years and continues to be a go-to spot for families and friends.
Indulge in Classic Comfort Food Dishes
Putterham Grille’s menu features classic comfort food dishes such as fish and chips, chicken parmesan, and meatloaf. Their fish and chips are made with fresh cod, battered and fried to perfection, and served with crispy French fries and tartar sauce. The chicken parmesan is a generous portion of breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, served with a side of pasta. And their meatloaf is a hearty dish made with ground beef, pork, and veal, served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Try Their Famous Lobster Mac and Cheese
One dish that Putterham Grille is known for is their lobster mac and cheese. This indulgent dish is made with chunks of fresh lobster meat, creamy mac and cheese, and topped with breadcrumbs. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
Seasons 52: A Fresh and Seasonal Menu for Health-Conscious Diners
Address: 220 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 558-1152
Operating Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday: 11am-11pm, Sunday: 11am-9pm
Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google, 4.7/5 on OpenTable, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: Cedar Plank-Roasted Salmon, Wood-Grilled Filet Mignon, Mini Indulgence Desserts
Average Cost: $30-$50 per person
Website: https://www.seasons52.com/
Menu: https://www.seasons52.com/menu-listing/dinner
Seasons 52 is a fresh grill and wine bar that offers a seasonal menu with ingredients sourced from local farms and purveyors. The restaurant also prides itself on offering dishes that are under 595 calories, making it a great option for health-conscious diners.
Enjoy Fresh and Seasonal Dishes
The menu at Seasons 52 changes with the seasons, ensuring that only the freshest and most flavorful ingredients are used in their dishes. Some must-try dishes include the cedar plank-roasted salmon, served with roasted vegetables and a lemon-parsley marinade, and the wood-grilled filet mignon, topped with a red wine sauce and served with mashed potatoes and asparagus.
End Your Meal with Mini Indulgence Desserts
One unique aspect of Seasons 52 is their mini indulgence desserts. These small portions of dessert are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without overindulging. Choose from options like key lime pie, chocolate peanut butter torte, or raspberry chocolate chip cannoli.
Legal Sea Foods – Chestnut Hill: A Seafood Lover’s Paradise
Address: 43 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 277-7300
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11am-10pm, Sunday: 12pm-9pm
Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google, 4.7/5 on OpenTable, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: New England Clam Chowder, Lobster Roll, Baked Stuffed Lobster
Average Cost: $30-$50 per person
Website: https://www.legalseafoods.com/restaurants/chestnut-hill-ma
Menu: https://www.legalseafoods.com/menus
Legal Sea Foods is a Boston institution known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. The Chestnut Hill location offers the same high-quality seafood in a casual and inviting atmosphere.
Start with Their Famous New England Clam Chowder
No visit to Legal Sea Foods is complete without trying their famous New England clam chowder. This creamy and flavorful soup is made with fresh clams, potatoes, and a secret blend of spices. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
Indulge in Lobster Dishes
Being a seafood restaurant, Legal Sea Foods offers a variety of lobster dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. Their lobster roll is a classic favorite, filled with chunks of fresh lobster meat and served on a buttery roll. For a more indulgent option, try their baked stuffed lobster, a whole lobster stuffed with crabmeat and breadcrumbs and baked to perfection.
Aquitaine Chestnut Hill: A Taste of France in Chestnut Hill
Address: 11 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 734-8400
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11:30am-10pm, Sunday: 5pm-9pm
Reviews: 4.6/5 on Google, 4.7/5 on OpenTable, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: Escargots à la Bourguignonne, Steak Frites, Crème Brûlée
Average Cost: $30-$50 per person
Website: https://www.aquitainechestnuthill.com/
Menu: https://www.aquitainechestnuthill.com/menu
Aquitaine Chestnut Hill brings a taste of France to the heart of Chestnut Hill. This charming bistro offers classic French dishes in a cozy and intimate setting.
Start with Escargots à la Bourguignonne
For an authentic French experience, start your meal with escargots à la Bourguignonne, a traditional appetizer of snails cooked in garlic butter and served with crusty bread. The escargots are tender and flavorful, and the garlic butter adds a rich and savory element to the dish.
Indulge in Steak Frites and Crème Brûlée
For the main course, try their steak frites, a juicy hanger steak served with crispy French fries and a side of béarnaise sauce. The steak is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Another popular dish is the coq au vin, a classic French stew made with chicken, bacon, mushrooms, and red wine. And no meal at Aquitaine Chestnut Hill is complete without their famous crème brûlée, a rich and creamy custard topped with a layer of caramelized sugar.
Shake Shack Chestnut Hill: A Casual Spot for Gourmet Burgers and Shakes
Address: 49 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 651-3406
Operating Hours: Monday-Sunday: 11am-10pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on Google, 4.6/5 on Yelp, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: ShackBurger, SmokeShack, Frozen Custard
Average Cost: $10-$15 per person
Website: https://www.shakeshack.com/location/chestnut-hill-ma/
Menu: https://www.shakeshack.com/menu/
Shake Shack is a popular chain known for its gourmet burgers, hot dogs, and frozen custard. The Chestnut Hill location offers the same high-quality food in a casual and laid-back atmosphere.
Try Their Signature ShackBurger
The ShackBurger is Shake Shack’s signature burger, made with 100% all-natural Angus beef, topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, and their special ShackSauce. It’s a simple yet delicious burger that keeps customers coming back for more.
Indulge in a SmokeShack Burger and Frozen Custard
For a little extra kick, try the SmokeShack burger, which features the same Angus beef patty as the ShackBurger but topped with crispy bacon, cherry peppers, and their signature ShackSauce. And don’t forget to save room for dessert – Shake Shack’s frozen custard is rich and creamy, and comes in a variety of flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and seasonal options.
Misono: A Unique Japanese Dining Experience
Address: 401 Boylston St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
Phone: (617) 244-1500
Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday: 11:30am-10pm, Sunday: 12pm-9pm
Reviews: 4.5/5 on Google, 4.6/5 on Yelp, 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor
Must-Try Meals: Hibachi Steak, Sushi Platter, Green Tea Ice Cream
Average Cost: $30-$50 per person
Website: http://misonochestnuthill.com/
Menu: http://misonochestnuthill.com/menu/
Misono offers a unique dining experience with its combination of traditional Japanese cuisine and hibachi-style cooking. The restaurant features a sushi bar, hibachi tables, and a full menu of Japanese dishes.
Watch Your Meal Come to Life at the Hibachi Table
One of the highlights of dining at Misono is the hibachi experience. Sit around a large grill as skilled chefs cook your meal right in front of you, performing tricks and entertaining guests along the way. It’s a fun and interactive dining experience that is perfect for special occasions or a night out with friends.
Try Their Fresh and Flavorful Sushi Platter
For those who prefer a more traditional Japanese meal, Misono offers a variety of sushi options. Their sushi platter is a great way to sample a variety of rolls and sashimi, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients. And don’t forget to end your meal with a scoop of their green tea ice cream – a refreshing and unique dessert option.
Conclusion
Chestnut Hill offers a diverse selection of restaurants, from classic comfort food to gourmet burgers to traditional French cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a bite with friends or a fine dining experience for a special occasion, there is something for everyone in this charming neighborhood. So next time you’re in Chestnut Hill, be sure to check out one of these top-rated restaurants for a delicious and memorable meal.
