Introduction
Feeling that hunger pang in Dedham, Massachusetts, and wondering where to find the perfect bite? With a population of around 25,000 and conveniently located just southwest of Boston, Dedham offers a surprisingly diverse culinary landscape. Navigating the options can be overwhelming, so we’ve curated a guide to the best food near Dedham. Whether you’re craving a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, international flavors, or a quick takeout meal, there’s a restaurant near Dedham ready to satisfy your appetite. Get ready to explore delicious offerings, from cozy family-friendly spots to upscale dining experiences and hidden local gems. We’ll cover everything from comforting pizza and burgers to authentic ethnic dishes and refined fine dining. Prepare your taste buds, because we’re diving into the best food near Dedham.
Casual Dining and Family-Friendly Restaurants
When looking for a relaxed atmosphere, affordable prices, and a place where the whole family can enjoy a meal together, casual dining is the way to go. Finding the right spot can be a relief after a long day, and Dedham offers plenty of options that cater to just that.
Casey’s Diner
First, let’s talk about Casey’s Diner, a local landmark and a must-visit for anyone seeking classic diner fare. Located on Oak Street, Casey’s is a short drive from the heart of Dedham. This no-frills diner is famed for its steamed burgers – a unique and incredibly satisfying experience. The friendly staff and counter service create a welcoming environment, perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner. Besides the burgers, they offer standard diner staples like fries, hot dogs, and milkshakes. Casey’s is a great spot for families or anyone looking for a comforting and affordable meal. One loyal customer raves, “Casey’s is a Dedham institution! The steamed burgers are unlike anything else, and the prices can’t be beat.”
The Plate
Next up is The Plate, located right on Washington Street in the center of Dedham. This restaurant specializes in inventive comfort food with a twist. You can find everything from gourmet grilled cheese to creative salads and hearty sandwiches. It’s known for its fresh ingredients and locally sourced produce. The Plate is a great choice for families and those who want a step above typical casual dining. The atmosphere is bright and welcoming, and they offer a great selection of beers and wines. One reviewer shares, “The Plate is my go-to spot in Dedham. Their menu is always changing, and everything is delicious!” Outdoor seating is available during warmer months.
Dedham House of Pizza
Another excellent option is Dedham House of Pizza, or DHoP as locals call it. Found on High Street, this place has been serving Dedham residents for years. As the name suggests, pizza is the star of the show, but they also offer a wide variety of other Italian-American dishes, including pasta, sandwiches, and salads. This place has something for everyone in the family. It’s a popular spot for takeout and delivery, but they also have a dining area where you can sit down and enjoy your meal. “DHOP is the best pizza in town! The crust is perfect, and the toppings are always fresh,” one happy pizza lover declares.
Tasca Estiatorio
Lastly, for a more international flair, consider Tasca Estiatorio. While slightly more elevated than your average casual spot, Tasca offers delicious and authentic Greek food in a relaxed setting on Washington Street. From gyros to souvlaki to moussaka, they have all the Greek classics. Their portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Tasca is a great choice for families or anyone looking for a taste of the Mediterranean. One satisfied diner remarks, “Tasca is a gem in Dedham! The food is amazing, and the atmosphere is so warm and inviting.”
Fine Dining and Special Occasion Restaurants
When the occasion calls for something special, Dedham and its surrounding areas provide several fine dining establishments that offer exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and an unforgettable ambiance. These restaurants are perfect for celebrating milestones, romantic dinners, or any time you want to treat yourself.
Blue Ribbon BBQ
One such place is Blue Ribbon BBQ, found on Washington Street, which may surprise you by its inclusion. It provides a relaxed and convivial experience but does it so well that it is often viewed as a higher end restaurant. Barbecue at its finest is found here, where it is smoked with great care for long periods of time. One patron stated, “I have never tasted barbecue like this, I never knew the smoking process could produce food so wonderful, but I am now a convert.”
Bistro Duet
Another fine dining option near Dedham is Bistro Duet. Found on High Street, it is a small but fine establishment that offers American cuisine with a European flair. It has rave reviews, with many people agreeing it is the finest restaurant in Dedham.
Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse
Finally, Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, although technically in Foxborough (a short drive from Dedham), deserves a mention for its consistent quality and elegant atmosphere. This upscale restaurant is known for its perfectly cooked steaks, fresh pasta dishes, and extensive wine list. Davio’s is the perfect setting for a special occasion or a business dinner. The service is impeccable, and the ambiance is refined and sophisticated. “Davio’s is always a treat! The steaks are cooked to perfection, and the pasta dishes are divine,” one delighted diner shares. They also have private dining rooms available for larger groups.
International Cuisine and Ethnic Eats
Dedham’s food scene is a melting pot of flavors, with numerous restaurants offering authentic international cuisine. From Italian to Asian to Mexican, you can find a taste of the world near Dedham.
Il Massimo Ristorante
For those craving Italian, Il Massimo Ristorante on Washington Street is a must-try. This family-run restaurant serves classic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, everything is prepared with love and attention to detail. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is friendly and attentive. “Il Massimo is my favorite Italian restaurant in Dedham! The food is always delicious, and the family who runs it are so welcoming,” says a regular customer. Be sure to try their signature pasta dish.
Pho & Spice
When it comes to Asian cuisine, Pho & Spice on Legacy Place is a popular choice. This restaurant specializes in Vietnamese cuisine, with a focus on pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. They offer a variety of pho options, as well as other Vietnamese dishes like banh mi and spring rolls. The ingredients are fresh, and the flavors are authentic. “Pho & Spice is the best Vietnamese food I’ve had in a long time! The pho is so flavorful and comforting,” exclaims a satisfied customer.
El Centro
For a taste of Mexico, head to El Centro, located on High Street. This vibrant restaurant serves authentic Mexican dishes in a festive atmosphere. From tacos to enchiladas to fajitas, they have all the Mexican classics. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. “El Centro is a fun and lively place to eat! The food is delicious, and the margaritas are strong,” says one happy diner. They also have a patio for outdoor dining.
Maharaja India Cuisine
If you’re in the mood for Indian food, Maharaja India Cuisine on Washington Street is a great choice. This restaurant serves authentic Indian dishes with a focus on flavors and spices. From curries to tandoori dishes to biryani, they have all the Indian classics. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is attentive. “Maharaja is the best Indian food in Dedham! The flavors are amazing, and the portions are generous,” raves one satisfied customer.
Quick Bites and Takeout
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal on the go. Dedham has plenty of options for quick bites and takeout, from sandwich shops to pizzerias to cafes.
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza is a local chain with a location in Dedham, offering a convenient and delicious pizza option. Their coal-fired pizzas are known for their crispy crust and fresh toppings. They also offer a variety of other Italian dishes, such as wings and salads. “Anthony’s is my go-to spot for pizza takeout! The crust is always perfect, and the toppings are always fresh,” shares one satisfied customer.
Panera Bread
If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, check out Panera Bread located in Legacy Place. This popular chain offers a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or dinner. “Panera is always a reliable choice for a quick and healthy meal! I love their sandwiches and soups,” says one frequent visitor.
Starbucks
For a caffeine fix and a sweet treat, head to Starbucks which also has a location in Legacy Place. This popular coffee chain offers a wide variety of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries. It’s a great place to grab a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. “Starbucks is my go-to spot for coffee and a pastry! The staff is always friendly, and the service is quick,” raves one loyal customer.
J.P. Licks
Finally, J.P. Licks has a location on Legacy Place to serve you great ice cream on the go. The best local homemade ice cream around, this place is a great stop for a hot day when you want to cool down.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Dedham is home to some hidden gems that are beloved by locals. These are the places that you might not find in guidebooks, but they offer unique experiences and delicious food.
The Green Lodge
One such gem is The Green Lodge, located near East Dedham. This historic restaurant has been serving Dedham residents for generations. It is a well-known and beloved location, with one patron saying, “The Green Lodge is like an old friend, it has a wonderful and familiar feel.”
Tutto Italiano
Another local favorite is Tutto Italiano, found on Bridge Street. People rave about the authenticity of the food, stating that it tastes as if it came straight from Italy.
Conclusion
As you can see, the food near Dedham offers a diverse and exciting culinary experience. From casual dining to fine dining to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you discover some new restaurants to try and has made your decision-making process a little easier. So, get out there and explore the best food near Dedham! Remember to check restaurant websites for current hours and specials.
Now, we want to hear from you! What are your favorite restaurants in Dedham? Share your recommendations in the comments below. What do you rate these restaurants out of five stars? Your input will help other food lovers discover even more hidden gems in the area. Happy eating!
