Boston, a city rich in culinary traditions, is home to some of the best roast beef sandwiches you’ll ever sink your teeth into. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these sandwiches offer a taste of Boston’s vibrant food scene, with each establishment bringing its unique twist to this classic comfort food. Here’s a guide to the top 10 roast beef sandwiches in Boston, where quality, flavor, and experience converge.
The 10 Best Roast Beef Sandwiches in Boston
1. Kelly’s Roast Beef
Address: 410 Revere Beach Blvd, Revere, MA 02151
Website: kellysroastbeef.com
Kelly’s Roast Beef is a Boston institution, credited with popularizing the roast beef sandwich since 1951. Situated on Revere Beach, this iconic spot offers a nostalgic, beachside dining experience. Kelly’s is known for its tender, thinly sliced roast beef served on a soft, buttery roll. The “Three-Way” is a must-try, featuring roast beef topped with cheese, barbecue sauce, and mayonnaise. The casual, walk-up counter service adds to the charm, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
2. Nick’s Roast Beef
Address: 139 Dodge St, Beverly, MA 01915
Website: nicksfamousroastbeef.com
Located just north of Boston, Nick’s Roast Beef is worth the short drive for what many consider the best roast beef sandwich in the area. Known for its high-quality beef, sliced thin and piled high, Nick’s offers a variety of sandwich options. The “Super Beef” with James River BBQ sauce, American cheese, and mayo is a customer favorite. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming, with a focus on fast, friendly service.
3. Liberty Bell Roast Beef & Seafood
Address: 170 Main St, Melrose, MA 02176
Website: libertybellrestaurant.com
Liberty Bell Roast Beef & Seafood is a beloved spot in Melrose, combining the best of land and sea. Their roast beef sandwich is a standout, with juicy, flavorful beef served on a fresh onion roll. The “Liberty Bell Special” features thinly sliced roast beef with lettuce, tomato, and horseradish sauce. The restaurant has a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
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4. Mike’s Roast Beef
Address: 35 Revere Beach Pkwy, Medford, MA 02155
Website: mikesroastbeef.com
Mike’s Roast Beef in Medford has been serving up some of the best roast beef sandwiches in Boston for decades. The key to their success is the freshness and quality of their ingredients. The “Big Beef” sandwich, loaded with thinly sliced roast beef, is a local favorite. Mike’s also offers a variety of toppings, including BBQ sauce, cheese, and pickles, allowing customers to customize their sandwich to their liking. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a focus on quick, efficient service.
5. Billy’s Famous Roast Beef
Address: 1290 Bridge St, Lowell, MA 01850
Website: billysroastbeef.com
Billy’s Famous Roast Beef, located in Lowell, is known for its generous portions and top-notch quality. The roast beef sandwiches here are served on a soft, sesame-seed bun, and the meat is always tender and juicy. The “Super Beef” sandwich, with BBQ sauce, mayo, and cheese, is a crowd-pleaser. Billy’s also has a laid-back, diner-style atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
6. Harrison’s Roast Beef
Address: 80 Chickering Rd, North Andover, MA 01845
Website: harrisonsroastbeef.com
Harrison’s Roast Beef in North Andover has been a local favorite since 1985. Known for its consistently delicious roast beef sandwiches, Harrison’s uses only the finest cuts of beef, slow-roasted to perfection. The “Super Roast Beef” sandwich, with a generous portion of beef, is a standout. The restaurant offers a cozy, no-frills environment, with friendly service and a focus on quality.
7. Land & Sea
Address: 1301 Broadway, Somerville, MA 02144
Website: landandsearestaurant.com
Land & Sea in Somerville is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best roast beef sandwiches in the Boston area. Their roast beef is cooked to perfection, tender, and full of flavor. The “Land & Sea Special” sandwich is a popular choice, featuring roast beef topped with BBQ sauce, melted cheese, and onions. The restaurant has a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely meal.
8. George’s Roast Beef
Address: 124 Broadway, Saugus, MA 01906
Website: georgesroastbeef.com
George’s Roast Beef in Saugus has been serving up delicious roast beef sandwiches for over 40 years. Their roast beef is tender, juicy, and piled high on a fresh roll. The “Super Beef” sandwich with cheese and BBQ sauce is a must-try. George’s is known for its fast, friendly service and its commitment to quality. The restaurant has a casual, welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
9. Joe’s Famous Roast Beef & Seafood
Address: 1215 Main St, Wakefield, MA 01880
Website: joesroastbeef.com
Joe’s Famous Roast Beef & Seafood in Wakefield offers a unique twist on the classic roast beef sandwich. Their roast beef is always fresh, and the sandwiches are made to order. The “Joe’s Super Beef” sandwich, with its tender roast beef, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy mayo, is a customer favorite. The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood options, making it a great spot for those looking for variety. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, with a focus on great food and service.
10. Pete’s Roast Beef
Address: 127 Merrimack St, Haverhill, MA 01830
Website: petesroastbeef.com
Pete’s Roast Beef in Haverhill is a local favorite known for its flavorful roast beef sandwiches. The meat is slow-roasted and sliced thin, then served on a fresh, soft roll. The “Pete’s Special” sandwich, with its tender beef, melted cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce, is a must-try. The restaurant has a cozy, friendly atmosphere, with a focus on quality ingredients and excellent service.
Conclusion
Boston’s roast beef sandwich scene is rich with tradition, quality, and flavor. From the iconic Kelly’s Roast Beef on Revere Beach to the hidden gems like Pete’s Roast Beef in Haverhill, these 10 spots offer the best of what Boston has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic “Super Beef” sandwich or something with a unique twist, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, the next time you’re in Boston, be sure to check out one (or all) of these top spots for a truly memorable roast beef sandwich experience.
