On the Bun
Retro-style smash burger joint inspired by classic American burger stands and 1950s diners. Menu will feature smash burgers, hand-cut fries, milkshakes, and local draft beer, with vegetarian options in development. Space is currently under construction in Downtown Lowell. Owners are Hector Rodriguez and Mila Hernandez. Aiming to open late June 2026.
Pokeworks
Pokeworks fast-casual poke bowl franchise expanding in Greater Boston. Two locations confirmed: Burlington Marketplace at 68-82 Burlington Mall Rd (Q2 2026) and Hanover Crossing at 1775 Washington St, Unit 610, Hanover, MA 02339 (summer 2026). Franchise partners Rong Cong and Lelin Kandel are operating under a seven-unit development agreement signed in 2024. Additional sites being […]
Union Square Donuts
Family-owned Somerville-based donut and specialty coffee shop expanding to its ninth location at Derby Street Shops in Hingham. Known for scratch-made donuts and specialty coffee. Will offer rotating creative donuts, fan-favorite classics, vegan options, and a full coffee program including espresso, matcha, and seasonal drinks. Slated to open summer 2026.
Revival Cafe + Kitchen
Revival Cafe + Kitchen is opening its seventh location in the lobby of the One Milestone complex at Harvard’s Enterprise Research Campus. Primarily takeout-focused with seating for up to 10 guests and a private seasonal patio. Will offer full coffee/beverage program, house-made pastries, and grab-and-go savory items. Plans to operate Monday through Friday. Opening expected […]
Off The Rails Boston
New restaurant/music venue called ‘Off The Rails Boston’ set to open in late summer 2026 at the former Scholars American Bistro & Cocktail Lounge location on School Street in Downtown Crossing. Will focus on live music, bands, expanded entertainment programming, and an atmosphere inspired by Nashville and Boston culture. Menu will feature elevated Americana-inspired items.
Figaro’s Italian Sandwich Shop
Figaro’s, a family-run Italian sandwich shop founded in 2002 by siblings Rosie and Giovanni Martone, is expanding to a second Boston location in the Fenway neighborhood, taking over the former Viva Burrito space at 92 Peterborough St. More details on the opening timeline expected in coming weeks. Menu features Italian-inspired sandwiches, wraps, salads, and soups.
Phinista Cafe
Vietnamese-French fusion café expanding to a third location at Packard’s Corner in Allston. Space is currently under construction with renovations underway. Menu will feature bánh mì sandwiches, pastries, and inventive drinks, plus new additions like overnight oats and sourdough-based items. Owners are targeting an opening in approximately one month from the May 1, 2026 article […]
Kawa
European-style café opening in the former FoMu space at 655 Tremont St in Boston’s South End. Concept focuses on quality coffee, local ingredients, and warm atmosphere with European flair. Behind the project are local restaurateurs Arnaud Abdoun and Loic Le Garrec (known for PRB Boulangerie, Petit Robert Bistro, and other Boston concepts). Currently in construction/buildout […]
Joe’s Pizza
NYC-founded Joe’s Pizza (est. 1975) is opening its second Boston-area location in the Fenway neighborhood. The 1,900-square-foot counter-serve space at 1363 Boylston St has already undergone a full renovation and will feature a service counter, indoor seating, and a year-round patio. Menu will follow the classic NY-style slice format with a regional twist: fresh mozzarella […]
Namaste Café
Family-owned Indian street food café opening next to Namaste Bazaar (Indian grocery) at Village Mall. Menu will feature pani puri, chaat, savory snacks, and handcrafted beverages including sugarcane juice, coconut water, chai, and lassi. Operated by the Patel family; Kush Patel leads the café. No opening date set yet; team is finalizing permits and completing […]