One of the best ways to recharge during the long, cold weeks of winter classes is to leave campus for a few hours. Take it from a self-proclaimed foodie – there’s nothing like finding a warm, welcoming restaurant to relax in, especially when you’re craving something besides the usual dining hall options. In the winter, Boston’s low temperatures and early sunsets can feel overwhelming, making a cozy food spot particularly appealing. Where do you start? Here are five places that are worth leaving campus for:
Tora Japanese Restaurant — Chinatown
When to go? When you’re drowning in homework, fresh fish is the move.
As you step inside, the noise of Chinatown fades away. The warm space is softly lit and feels calm, inviting, and relaxing – even when the restaurant is full. The atmosphere remains intimate even at its busiest hour. The Kaisen Don bowls feature buttery cuts of fish layered over perfectly seasoned rice. It’s the kind of meal that can make your weekend special.
- Learn More: Tora Japanese Restaurant
- Distance From BU: 25 minutes
- Average cost: $20-$30
Left: Tora Japanese Restaurant (Photo/Odette Sasson)
L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates — Brookline
When to go? If your brain is overloaded, hot chocolate is the solution.
The cafe is cute and cozy, making it feel like a small escape from the busy, cold streets outside. The hot chocolate is rich and satisfying, and the pastries are perfect for sharing. It is an ideal spot for a slow afternoon, studying, or a chill catch-up with friends.
- Learn More: L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates
- Distance From BU: 15 minutes
- Average cost: $10-$15
Right: L.A. Burdick Handmade Chocolates (Photo/Odette Sasson)
Matsunori — Fenway
When to go? When you want to impress someone new to town.
It is walk-in only and almost always full, but the quality never misses. Even when there is a line, the space feels comfortable, and the service is fast and organized. The menu focuses on hand rolls and small plates, with the salmon and miso cod rolls standing out as highlights. It is a go-to spot when you want great food without the stress of a long wait.
- Learn More: Matsunori
- Distance From BU: 11 minutes
- Average cost: $40-$60
Left: Matsunori (Photo/Odette Sasson)
Caffé Vittoria — North End
When to go? When you want to pretend you’re in Italy without leaving Boston.
Some days, you just want to feel like you are somewhere completely different, slower, warmer, and more romantic. With marble tables, mirrored walls, and the smell of fresh espresso, this cafe makes it easy. Order the homemade gelato, classic cannoli, or a rich Italian coffee, and take your time pretending you are in a small cafe in Rome.
- Learn More: Caffé Vittoria
- Distance From BU: 30 minutes
- Average cost: $10-$20
Right: Caffé Vittoria (Photo/Odette Sasson)
Hokkaido Ramen Santouka — Back Bay
When to go? When the dining hall is trying too hard to imitate other countries’ foods.
This spot is cozy, warm, and perfect for a chill night out. The ramen is super comforting, especially the Shio Ramen, and the vibe makes you want to stay and talk for hours. This is a great spot for an easy, satisfying weekend dinner.
- Learn More: Hokkaido Ramen Santouka
- Distance From BU: 14 minutes
- Average cost: $10-$20
Left: Hokkaido Ramen Santouka (Photo/Odette Sasson)
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