2024 brought fresh starts — but also the end of an era for some of our city's best spots. From Boston institutions (buh-bye, Barbara Lynch) to some of our fav dives, we said a sad goodbye to restaurants that were the heart of our city. As the year wraps up, let’s take a moment to remember some of the local gems we lost. And hey, if you love an establishment, be sure to show up and support it while you can!
photo credit: no.9 park
Barbara Lynch Gruppo
All of Barbara Lynch’s restaurants closed over the course of 2024, marking the end of an era. Her Fort Point restaurants Drink, Menton and Sportello, which helped revitalize Congress Street, closed earlier this year. The final date is uncertain for the South End favorite B&G Oysters, and No.9 Park - her flagship - will close after 26 years in business on New Year’s Eve after one last hurrah.
Cambridge Brewing Company
Greater Boston’s oldest brewpub, Cambridge Brewing Company, closed its doors after 35 years. A Kendall Square institution since 1989, CBC became a neighborhood favorite and a key player in the city’s craft beer scene. Despite a legacy of great beer and food, rising competition and costs ultimately led to the closure.
Fajitas & ’Ritas
After 35 years of serving up Tex-Mex and margaritas, Fajitas & 'Ritas closed in 2024. The Downtown Crossing location was a favorite among theater-goers and office workers and will be missed by many looking to grab a pre-show bite or a post-work marg.
Blarney Stone
After over 60 years, this Fields Corner stalwart has poured its last pint. Luckily, the owners are planning to bring a version of the popular Irish pub to Morrissey Boulevard in the near future. Meanwhile, plans for a new tapas spot are underway for the Blarney’s old space.
The Porch Southern Fare & Juke Joint
After 8 years of Southern comfort and live music, The Porch put on its last show in Medford. The restaurant blended Southern cuisine with live rock, blues, and indie acts, giving diners and concert-goers a one-of-a-kind experience. We’ll especially miss the fried chicken.
Silvertone Bar & Grill
After nearly 30 years, 2024 brought last call to Silvertone. This Downtown Crossing dive was frequented by office workers and night owls, hailed for its reasonable prices and no-frills bites. They struggled after losing the office crowd due to the pandemic, and it’s unclear what’s next for the Bromfield Street spot.
Good Company
If you never made it to Good Company, you’re not alone; the much-anticipated cocktail bar closed its doors after just nine months. The bar struggled to attract enough business, despite being recognized as Boston Magazine's Best Cocktail Bar of 2024. This venue was one of the first independent operations in Hood Park.
Vincent’s
In February, we bid farewell to Vincent’s after nearly four years in East Cambridge. The Big Dipper Hospitality Group, also behind Mamaleh's and State Park, first opened Vincent’s as a grocer in 2020, later transforming it into a full restaurant. Fortunately, they transitioned the space into Mamaleh’s Kibitz Corner in April, and you can still get your bodega brunch fix at State Park.
Atlantico
Since Atlantico closed, there's one less option for small plates in the South End. The Iberian seafood tapas spot from Chef Michael Serpa went out of business after nearly four years. Its challenging journey included a delayed opening and temporary closures due to the pandemic. Serpa's other establishments, Select Oyster Bar and Little Whale, are still open.
Saying goodbye to these spots is a reminder of how quickly Boston’s culinary scene evolves. They’ll surely be missed — what were you most bummed to say goodbye to this year?
