I’ve Been Gatekeeping a Hidden Food Hall in Massachusetts

Whenever my family and I take a trip to downtown Boston, we tend to do a lot of walking and always end up completely famished by the time lunchtime rolls around. With all of the outstanding restaurants in the city, you would think that it would be easy to find a good place to grab something yummy to eat. Well, not exactly. You see, each member of my family has their favorite dishes and everyone prefers something different. Luckily, I have uncovered a solution to this dining dilemma, and it takes the form of a hidden eatery right in Boston’s Financial District. Let me tell you all about The Lineup food hall, one of the best local gems in Massachusetts.

If you think all food courts are just places to grab a quick, greasy burger or unhealthy snack, you need to come and sample the fare at The Lineup. This place definitely isn’t the average food court that you would find at a mall or entertainment complex. Instead, it is a sophisticated food hall curated by a Michelin-starred chef named John Fraser. The five distinctive restaurants within the hall all offer a variety of delicious elevated food choices. 

The Lineup opened just two years ago and has since become a favorite gathering spot for those who live and work in the downtown area. However, because the food hall is such a new addition to the city, many visitors are surprised to find out about its existence. But believe me, your first visit here will not be your last.

The Lineup is located on the ground floor of The Connector at Winthrop Center, a stylish community gathering space near South Station. If you are visiting the city, it is a great place to stop and grab lunch after exploring nearby attractions such as the New England Aquarium or the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum. Or you may just want to make it your primary destination.

If you decide to drop by, you are sure to find something tasty at one of the five on-site restaurants. In fact, with all these great options, you could probably eat lunch here every day and order something different to eat each time. Will you choose to dine on hot, flavorful bowls of steamy Ramen paired with a fresh miso Caesar salad at the Ramen Spot, or try a tasty smashburger, chicken sandwich, or milkshake from Big Grin Burgers & Buns? Pizza lovers will be delighted to discover authentic Neapolitan pizzas and Italian-inspired sandwiches from Gatto Pazzo. And healthy, fresh Mediterranean bowls are available at Iris Mezze. You can also grab a coffee or a pastry any time of the day at the Day Shift cafe.

The restaurants at the Lineup maintain individual hours, but all are open Monday through Friday during lunchtime. The Lineup also has pick-up and delivery available, in case you want to enjoy your meal elsewhere. The nearby Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway is a lovely place for a picnic during the warmer months.

Have you dined at any of the five Lineup restaurants? If so, which one is your favorite? You can view the hours and menus of all the restaurants at The Lineup website and also find out more information at The Lineup Facebook page. And whenever you travel to Boston, be sure to use the Only In Your State itinerary planner to create a customized experience.