These 11 Little Known Restaurants In Massachusetts Are Hard To Find But Worth The Search

There’s nothing quite like stumbling upon your new favorite lunch spot, or discovering a breakfast joint that has you jumping out of bed in the morning. Sometimes it pays to check out those dining destinations that you’ve always overlooked, or didn’t even know existed. Check out these lesser-known and hard to find restaurants in Massachusetts that are worth the time to track down.

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The Montague Bookmill is a used bookstore located in an 1842 gristmill, and their motto is perfect: "books you don't need in a place you can't find." There are plenty of soft, cushy chairs near windows overlooking the river below. You can curl up with a good book from the shop and snack on treats from the cafe. Check out the mill's Alvah Stone restaurant for creative and authentic American fare in a magical setting. (440 Greenfield Road Montague)

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When you think "pie shop," you probably picture a bakery, or maybe a pizza place. However, KO Pies specializes in old-fashioned filled, savory pies that will knock you off your feet. While it's hard to hide this kind of flavor, KO Pies is concealed behind a large, brick building in East Boston. Try the beef stew pie for a classic savory treat. (256 Marginal Street, Building 16, Boston)

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This breakfast and lunch spot specializes in healthful, organic meals that feel absolutely decadent. It's tucked away from the main drag, but Spoon and Seed is definitely worth a few minutes of hunting. Try the Vermont cheddar biscuits (they're huge), the french toast with caramelized bananas, or the "spudnut" potato doughnut. (12 Thornton Drive, Hyannis)

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This place is tucked away and hidden from view, but it's definitely a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Their lobster roll is famous for its rich, buttery flavor, and the view is an equally big draw. The service is old-fashioned but great: servers dash between picnic tables, calling out numbers and dodging each other like pros. If you're not in the mood for a lobster roll, try the grilled reuben sandwich. (357 Sesuit Neck Road, Dennis)

Facebook/Ella's Wood Burning Oven Restaurant

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Located a bit out of the way on Route 6, Ella's offers a warm atmosphere and tasty, crispy pizza creations. The wood-fired crust is perfectly flaky and amazingly rich. If pizza isn't your thing, there are also plenty of yummy Italian and American dishes to tempt you. Try the grilled octopus appetizer before your pie arrives. (3136 Cranberry Highway Wareham, MA)

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This tiny dining spot specializes in American seafood dishes and bistro favorites. The setting is cozy and intimate, making this spot perfect for date night or a special occasion. The crispy, panko-coated schnitzel is delicious, but you need to save room for the flourless chocolate cake or salted caramel ice cream. (197 E Main Street, Gloucester, MA)

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To find this hidden cafe, you'll have to walk down some old stairs into the basement of a historic Worcester textile factory. There, you'll find live music, dim candlelight, and yummy lunch and breakfast fare. The daily lunch specials are always worth a look, and their morning menu is filled with great egg dishes. (102 Grove Street, Ste 1, Worcester)

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Facebook/Elizabeth's Bagels

You'd drive right by this little bagel shop if you weren't paying attention. Inside, you'll find a rainbow (literally) of different delicious flavors and yummy spreads. They do a brisk business on weekend mornings, and locals swear by their homemade cream cheese. Try the sausage, egg and cheese sandwich if you're not in the mood for a bagel. (456 W Central St Route 140, Franklin)

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This Westfield eatery is a beautiful little gem. You'd probably walk right by if it weren't for the delicious scent of roast pork, potato balls and other delicious Spanish and Puerto Rican fare wafting from the restaurant. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but the menu is massive and everything is prepared with tons of flavor. Try the yucca appetizer for an exotic starter. (34 Franklin St, Westfield)

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This place looks sort of like an ice cream parlor, but is actually a delightful fusion between Vietnamese and French cuisine. The food is always fresh, and the owner is usually on hand to answer questions or suggest tasty options. Try the spicy mango wings (pictured), or the pulled pork sandwich. (249 Main Street, Rutland)

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The Locust Street Kitchen is very much a hidden gem. This spot is small and no-frills, but boasts a cheerful vibe and delicious breakfast and lunch. It's spectacular diner food at a reasonable price and no fuss. You can easily stuff a whole family with delectable sandwiches, eggs and pastries for half the cost of other, more popular diners. Try the sweet bread french toast, and the Battleship sandwich (pictured). (609 Locust Street, Fall River)

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of discovering your new favorite eatery. If you’re looking for a whole town full of hidden dining gems, check out this underrated (but awesome) community in the Berkshires.