5 Underrated Boston Restaurants that Are Absolutely Worth Trying

Boston is a city of culinary traditions, from the clam chowder and lobster rolls of its seafood houses to the red-sauce Italian joints of the North End.

While these historic flavors are essential to the city’s identity, a vibrant and diverse food scene thrives just below the surface, in neighborhoods like Somerville, Cambridge, and Dorchester.

To find the most exciting food in the Boston area, you have to look beyond the Freedom Trail. It’s in the unassuming storefronts serving Trinidadian roti, the bustling cafes dishing out Somali specialties, and the destination restaurants redefining Mediterranean cuisine.

Here are five underrated spots that showcase the true breadth of Boston’s culinary world.

1. Galleria Umberto

A North End institution that defies the neighborhood’s tourist-trap reputation, Galleria Umberto is a relic from another era.

This cash-only, lunch-only spot serves a small menu of Sicilian specialties, and they do it perfectly.

The main attraction is the square slice of pizza—thick, cheesy, and absurdly cheap. Arancini, panzerotti, and calzones round out the offerings. Get there when it opens, be prepared to wait in a line of construction workers and local old-timers, and know that they close whenever they run out of dough, which is usually early.

2. Sarma

While its sister restaurant Oleana gets plenty of well-deserved praise, Sarma in Somerville remains a true “if you know, you know” destination.

Inspired by the “meyhane” (roadside taverns) of Turkey, the restaurant serves an incredible array of creative, vibrant, and utterly delicious Mediterranean small plates (meze). Waiters circulate with trays of off-menu specials, tempting you with dishes you didn’t even know you wanted. The lively, festive atmosphere makes every meal feel like a celebration.

3. Oga’s Japanese Cuisine

In a city with many high-end sushi spots, Oga’s in Natick stands out for its uncompromising commitment to quality and tradition.

This tiny, unassuming restaurant is run by a master chef who serves some of the best and most authentic Edomae-style sushi in New England.

There are no fancy rolls or spicy mayo here. The focus is on the pristine quality of the fish and the perfection of the seasoned rice. For a true experience, put your trust in the chef with the omakase menu.

4. Singh’s Roti Shop

For a taste of the Caribbean in Boston, head to Singh’s Roti Shop in Dorchester. This family-run Trinidadian spot specializes in roti, a soft, flaky flatbread used to wrap savory curries.

Whether you choose the boneless chicken, goat, or shrimp, the fillings are rich, deeply spiced, and incredibly comforting. Don’t miss out on ordering a “doubles,” a classic Trinidadian street food snack of fried bread with curried chickpeas. It’s a flavorful and soulful experience.

5. Tawakal Halal Cafe

Located in East Boston, Tawakal Halal Cafe is a small, family-run gem that has earned national acclaim for its incredible Somali food.

The restaurant is warm and welcoming, making you feel like a guest in their home. The star of the menu is the Chapati, a flaky, layered flatbread that you can get in a wrap or on a platter.

The chicken or beef chapati wraps are fantastic, and the slow-cooked biryanis and sambusas (savory pastries) are must-tries. It’s a delicious introduction to a cuisine that is underrepresented and incredibly flavorful.