When it comes to dining out in Eastern MA, there is no shortage of options. From quaint seaside towns to bustling cities, this region offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. As an expert in the food industry, I have had the pleasure of exploring the many restaurants in Eastern MA and have discovered that there are a few cuisines that stand out among the rest.
The Influence of History and Immigration
To understand the popularity of certain cuisines in Eastern MA, we must first look at the history and demographics of the region. The area has a rich history, with influences from Native American, English, Irish, Italian, and Portuguese cultures.These diverse backgrounds have greatly influenced the food scene in Eastern MA, resulting in a melting pot of flavors and dishes. Additionally, Eastern MA has seen waves of immigration throughout its history, with large populations of Irish, Italian, and Portuguese immigrants settling in the region. These communities have brought their traditional recipes and cooking techniques with them, adding to the already diverse culinary landscape.
The Top Cuisines in Eastern MA
Now that we have a better understanding of the history and demographics of Eastern MA, let's dive into the most popular cuisines in the region.Italian Cuisine
It's no surprise that Italian cuisine is at the top of this list. With a large Italian population in cities like Boston and Providence, there is no shortage of authentic Italian restaurants in Eastern MA. From classic dishes like pasta carbonara and chicken parmesan to regional specialties like Sicilian-style pizza and arancini, you can find it all here. One of the most beloved Italian restaurants in Eastern MA is Regina Pizzeria, located in Boston's North End.This family-owned establishment has been serving up delicious pizzas since 1926 and is a must-visit for any pizza lover.
Seafood
With its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, it's no surprise that seafood is a popular cuisine in Eastern MA. From fresh lobster and oysters to clam chowder and fish and chips, there are endless options for seafood lovers. The Union Oyster House, located in Boston, is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States and is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. They serve up classic New England dishes like lobster rolls and fried clams, as well as more unique options like oyster stew and baked stuffed lobster.Portuguese Cuisine
The Portuguese community has had a significant influence on the food scene in Eastern MA, with many traditional dishes making their way onto menus in restaurants throughout the region. One of the most popular Portuguese dishes is bacalhau, or salted cod, which can be found in many restaurants in Eastern MA. If you're looking to try some authentic Portuguese cuisine, head to Casa Portugal in Fall River.This family-owned restaurant has been serving up traditional dishes like caldo verde (kale soup) and frango à passarinho (fried chicken) since 1975.
Asian Cuisine
The Asian population in Eastern MA has grown significantly in recent years, resulting in a wide variety of Asian restaurants throughout the region. From Chinese and Japanese to Thai and Vietnamese, there is something for every palate. One of the most popular Asian restaurants in Eastern MA is Gourmet Dumpling House in Boston's Chinatown. They are known for their delicious handmade dumplings, as well as other traditional Chinese dishes like scallion pancakes and Peking duck.American Cuisine
Last but certainly not least, American cuisine is a staple in Eastern MA. From classic burgers and fries to hearty New England dishes like clam bakes and lobster rolls, there is no shortage of options for those looking for some good old-fashioned American comfort food. One of the most iconic American restaurants in Eastern MA is Legal Sea Foods, which has multiple locations throughout the region.They are known for their fresh seafood dishes, as well as their award-winning clam chowder.
