Massachusetts Eats: Food Network’s Best Restaurants, Pizza & More
From legendary lobster pizza to iconic sandwich shops, discover Food Network’s top picks for unforgettable Massachusetts dining destinations.
Massachusetts Restaurants on Food Network: An Essential Guide
Massachusetts stands at the epicenter of New England’s culinary creativity, boasting a vibrant restaurant scene ranging from historic pizzerias to inventive sandwich shops. The Food Network has highlighted many of these extraordinary dining spots, introducing viewers and visitors to some of the Bay State’s most unique flavors and experiences. Whether you crave Italian-inspired lobster pizza or over-the-top sandwiches, Massachusetts offers an abundance of choices for food lovers. This article explores key restaurants recognized by the Food Network, highlights their standout dishes, and provides insight into the state’s dynamic food culture.
Best Pizza in Massachusetts: The Lobster-Topped Legend at Scampo
Scampo, located in the renowned Liberty Hotel in Boston, has earned national attention for serving what the Food Network calls the Best Pizza in Massachusetts. This unique pizzeria combines Italian traditions with New England seafood, resulting in unforgettable creations that delight locals and visitors alike.
About Scampo
- Location: Liberty Hotel, Boston (formerly the Charles Street Jail)
- Specialty: Italian-inspired cuisine with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences
- Ownership: Lydia Shire, acclaimed chef and Boston culinary icon
The Famous Lobster Pizza
What sets Scampo apart is its lobster pizza, a dish that epitomizes New England’s love for combining fresh seafood with comfort food. Chef Lydia Shire created this pizza out of necessity, transforming an overabundance of lobster into a luxurious, crowd-pleasing pie. According to the Food Network:
- Lobster cream is spread over the pizza base
- Generous chunks of lobster tail are dotted on top
- The result is a decadent pizza that’s now an iconic Boston favorite
As the Food Network puts it, “It’s pizza with lobster on top. How New England is that?”
Other Seafood Pizzas at Scampo
- Shrimp Scampi Pizza: Featuring fresh shrimp, garlic, and cheese for another seafood twist
- Additional rotating seafood-based pies that keep the menu unique and seasonal
Why Scampo Stands Out
- Combines local ingredients with global flavors
- Located in a luxurious, historic venue
- Beloved by locals and recommended by national food experts
Sandwich Royalty: Boston’s Outrageous Sandwich Shops
Boston’s reputation for sandwich innovation is well-deserved, with Food Network’s Guy Fieri shining a spotlight on several local favorites on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives. One such standout is Blunch – a compact yet renowned sandwich shop serving gourmet creations pressed to perfection.
Blunch: Gourmet Pressed Sandwiches
- Location: Boston, MA
- Famous For: Artisanal sandwiches made with premium ingredients
- Vibe: Compact (just under 400 square feet), cozy, driven by passion for quality and hospitality
Signature Sandwiches at Blunch
- The Bird: Seasoned chicken, mozzarella, oven-roasted tomatoes, artichoke aioli, fresh greens, all packed into a warm baguette
- The Marian: Roast beef, blue cheese, caramelized onions, crispy shallots, with a touch of sweetness, pressed to create an irresistible blend
- Inventive vegetarian and vegan options, featuring seasonal produce and creative combinations
The Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives Experience
When Guy Fieri visited Blunch, he was struck by the “love and tender care” that owner Nikki Kristo brings to every sandwich. The shop’s food philosophy is about taking classic meal flavors and serving them as portable, pressed sandwiches that burst with flavor, freshness, and originality.
Technique and Ingredients
Blunch’s sandwiches stand out due to their unique cooking techniques and quality ingredients, such as:
- Oven-roasted Roma tomatoes seasoned with black pepper, herbs, and balsamic drizzle
- Freshly hand-sliced meats and cheeses
- Artisanal breads, pressed for a satisfying texture and flavor fusion
Other Food Network Favorites in Massachusetts
The Food Network’s coverage of Massachusetts doesn’t stop with pizza and sandwiches. With its diverse population and historic towns, the state is a hotbed for culinary experimentation, from Portuguese seafood stews to classic clam chowder. While this article focuses on the venues most highlighted by the Food Network, here are a few additional types of restaurants and dishes you might encounter while dining in Massachusetts:
- Diners: Classic comfort food, pancakes, and retro charm
- Drive-Ins: Burgers, hot dogs, and shakes served with a nostalgic feel
- Dives: Local hangouts famous for unique local dishes and cozy atmospheres
America’s Favorite Pizza Toppings: What Tops the List?
Even as Scampo reinvents what pizza can be with its lobster and seafood pies, Food Network also delves into what toppings Americans love most. While lobster may be a Massachusetts specialty, classic toppings still reign supreme. Here’s a look at America’s most popular pizza toppings:
| Topping | Popularity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pepperoni | Very High | Most beloved by far |
| Mushrooms | High | Ideal with meats or veggie pies |
| Sausage | High | Spicy or sweet varieties |
| Onions | Medium | Adds tang and crunch |
| Extra Cheese | High | For those who crave indulgence |
| Lobster | Regional (Northeast) | A Massachusetts specialty |
Of course, regional specialties like lobster-topped pizza set Massachusetts apart and reflect the state’s willingness to blend tradition with innovation.
Boston Dining Culture: What Makes Massachusetts Unique
While standout dishes and celebrity visits grab headlines, Massachusetts’ dining culture is shaped by several factors:
- Diversity: Historic neighborhoods bring together Italian, Irish, Chinese, Portuguese, and other cuisines in close proximity
- Fresh Seafood: Direct access to the Atlantic ensures oysters, lobster, clams, and fresh fish are central to many menus
- Passionate Chefs: Culinary talent, from Lydia Shire to up-and-coming innovators, keep menus dynamic and exciting
- Community Focus: Many restaurants maintain a strong sense of local identity and pride
Planning Your Food-Focused Visit to Massachusetts
If you’re eager to sample Massachusetts’ celebrated restaurants as seen on the Food Network, a bit of planning goes a long way. Here are tips for making the most of your culinary adventure:
- Explore Neighborhoods: Boston’s North End is known for Italian bakeries and delis, while Cambridge offers eclectic, student-driven fare
- Book Ahead: Popular spots like Scampo often require reservations, especially on weekends and during tourist season
- Follow the Locals: Community favorites often fly under the radar yet deliver unforgettable food and atmosphere
- Try Something New: Don’t hesitate to order regional specialties—Massachusetts is the perfect place to be adventurous
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the most famous pizza in Massachusetts, according to Food Network?
A: Scampo’s lobster pizza in Boston is highlighted as the best and most iconic pizza in the state by Food Network.
Q: Besides lobster, what other seafood pizzas does Scampo offer?
A: In addition to lobster pizza, Scampo features a popular shrimp scampi pizza and often includes other seasonal seafood-topped pies.
Q: Which sandwich shop did Guy Fieri visit in Boston?
A: Guy Fieri visited Blunch, an acclaimed compact gourmet sandwich shop in Boston, known for pressed sandwiches like The Bird and The Marian.
Q: What are the most popular pizza toppings nationally?
A: According to the Food Network, pepperoni, mushrooms, sausage, onions, and extra cheese are among the most popular pizza toppings in the United States.
Q: What dining experiences make Massachusetts unique?
A: Massachusetts offers diverse culinary experiences—exceptional seafood, skilled chefs, and a rich multicultural tradition create a dynamic food landscape recognized by Food Network and loved by foodies nationwide.
