7 Mouthwatering Dishes You Must Try This Summer

Summer in the city means outdoor patios, rooftop bars, and delicious new summer menus. We checked out some of our favorite Boston eateries as they unveil some fresh and tasty menu additions. From lobster rolls and fresh fish to flatbreads topped with local ingredients, make a reservation and try these mouthwatering dishes!

The Naked Lobster Roll from The Barking Crab – Boston, MA

For a true New England experience, there is no better spot than The Barking Crab in Boston’s Seaport District. Try the lobster roll – warm knuckle, claw and tail meat dripped in warm drawn butter served in a sweet brioche bun. Served with a side of picnic style coleslaw and fries. Some debate as to whether this style is the Cape Cop or Connecticut-Style Lobster Roll, either way, trust us, it’s delicious!

Photo by: Rick Bern Photography

The Highlander Burger from Blue on Highland – Needham, MA

An eclectic suburban favorite featuring al fresco dining options, retro bar and lounge area, Blue on Highland serves modern American fare in it’s chic Needham Heights location. And whether you stop by for lunch, dinner, or to socialize after work, you’ll want to pull up a chair and try the chef-inspired burger named for the place! Featuring 100% Ground Chuck, Cabot Vermont cheddar cheese, braised short rib, roasted garlic Worcestershire demi-glace, red onion strings, Boston lettuce, heirloom tomato, on a toasted brioche roll, this ultra-satisfying dish is best washed down with any of Blue on Highland’s refreshing craft beers on tap.

Atlantic Salmon Filet from Odyssey Boston (Entertainment Cruises) – Boston, MA

Delectable and perfectly paired with the summer season, this dish, only found aboard Odyssey’s Boston Harbor dinner cruise, is simply not to be missed. The salmon fillet is as it should be – firm and flaky, setting the stage just right for notes of citrus and sweetness, introduced by the accompanying lemon-infused orzo pasta with red onion and sundried tomatoes. Elegant, refreshing, and classic, this meal is made only more breathtaking by the sparkling views of the Harbor providing your backdrop as you dine and delight in live, onboard entertainment. For an all-encompassing experience that is truly unforgettable, look to the water this summer.

Crispy Flatbreads from Hard Rock Cafe – Boston, MA

The new crispy flatbreads are made to share and created with a variety of high-quality ingredients and flavor profiles sure to please every palate, including Margherita – with sliced Roma tomatoes, basil and herb sauce, roasted garlic, Romano and mozzarella cheeses, fresh basil , topped with a drizzle of garlic aioli; Pepperoni – with tomato sauce, provolone, mozzarella and Romano cheeses, glazed with garlic oil and topped with zesty pepperoni; Grilled Vegetable – with roasted garlic, mozzarella and tomato sauce, topped with grilled bell peppers, tomato, onion, mushrooms and asparagus; and Southwest Chicken – with grilled chicken, pico de gallo, roasted red peppers, green onions, avocado, mozzarella, topped with a spicy jalapeño sauce.

These flatbreads pair perfectly with one of Hard Rock Cafe’s specialty cocktails from its extensive, award-winning beverage menu, including Hurricanes, margaritas, and signature favorites.

Scungilli with Maine Lobster from Teatro – Boston, MA 

The Scungilli with Maine Lobster and Vermont Butter is the perfect dish for summer and a guest favorite at Teatro. The Maine Lobster pairs perfectly with rich European-style Butter churned in small batches from Vermont Creamery. This decadent pasta dish has received rave review from guests, including the claim, “If I had a last meal, this would be it. So simple, so good. Quite possibly my favorite dish ever, anywhere.” All of Teatro’s pastas are made in-house from scratch, so you’ll find plenty of great options in addition to the Scungilli.

Ricotta Gnocchi from Top of the Hub – Boston, MA 

A great little dish reflecting home grown vegetables at the peak of their season. The gnocchi are hand rolled made from strained ricotta cheese, egg, parmesan, herbs, lemon and flour. After being gently poached in salt water they are dried and lightly sautéed in extra virgin olive oil and presented on a smooth and light puree of sweet corn, scented with a hint of chili and citrus.

Vegetables can include anything ripe and ready at the time. Currently, the team at Top of the Hub are using a colorful array of snap peas, peas, asparagus and heirloom tomatoes, briefly cooked to retain their crunch and flavor. These are tossed with a teaspoon of EVO, fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, chives or tarragon and seasoning. (Salt, freshly ground pepper and a pinch of chili flakes) After arranging all with the gnocchi, freshly grated parmesan and a few drops basil oil are sprinkled over the dish. A garnish of young corn shoots adds the final touch.

Quinoa Stuffed Ravioli from Piattini – Boston, MA

Piattini on Newbury Street in the Back Bay has put a delicious twist on a classic Italian dish. Their handmade quinoa ravioli is stuffed with quinoa, kale, root beets, and topped with a mixture of spinach, garlic, EVOO, and gorgonzola cheese. This drool-worthy dish is best served with great company and a tall glass of wine.