Polcari’s Coffee may be a bit off the beaten track, but it has a devoted following. In fact, this tiny North End shop has achieved almost mythic status amongst coffee lovers and those who appreciate all things quirky.

A visit here should definitely be at the top of your list, whether you’re a Boston local, planning a day trip to the city or in the Bay State for the first time. It’s a shop unlike any other, with a unique history to boot.

Anthony Polcari, an Italian immigrant, started this tiny coffee shop in 1932.
Facebook/Polcari's Coffee
They don’t advertise, but that’s likely because you can practically smell the intoxicating scent of coffee, spices and sugary sweetness from blocks away.
Facebook/Polcari's Coffee
Stepping inside, you're immediately transported to 1930s Italy.
Yelp/Francis R.
The wares are kept in glass bottles and jars, and the shelves are packed with fresh, rare spices, pasta, candy, nuts, tea and incredible coffee.
Yelp/Abigail L.
You can also pick up deli meats, classic candy, and sacks of their delicious dipping oil mixture.
Yelp/Winnie L.
Of course, the coffee takes center stage at Polcari's.
Yelp/Christina R.
They carry many rare blends, but the most popular is definitely their decadent and rich House Blend.
Yelp/Jeng L.

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Don’t forget to try their famous lemon slush when weather starts to heat up!
Yelp/Frank B.
It’s made in-house using a traditional technique that you’d have a hard time finding outside Italy.
Yelp/Bill L.
You really feel like you've stumbled into a local Italian shop, from the healthy stock of Nutella...
Yelp/Roger L.
...to the speciality sodas and snacks.
Yelp/Winnie L.
There's something for everyone at this unique Massachusetts gem.
Flickr/Komal K.
The shop was run by the Polcari family until 2005, when a close friend took over the business.
Polcari's Coffee
Today, Polcari's Coffee is a testament to how hard work and classic charm will always spell success.
Yelp/Logan J.

Polcari’s Coffee is located at 105 Salem Street, Boston. For more information, you can visit their website here. If you’re into finding unique hidden gems, check out the Massachusetts restaurant that may just be the most whimsical in the state.

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