Porter Café is one of those neighborhood gems that hits the sweet spot between cozy and quietly sophisticated. Tucked right on Centre Street in West Roxbury, it offers the kind of relaxed pub vibe that makes you want to linger for one more drink or dessert. The bar has an impressive craft beer list and a solid wine selection, and the cocktails are mixed with care--never rushed, always balanced. The food goes well beyond standard pub fare. The pasta dishes are fresh and flavorful, and the burgers are consistently juicy and well-seasoned. Daily specials often surprise with some bistro-level creativity. Service is warm and genuinely friendly, with staff who seem to know the regulars by name. Whether you're dropping in for a casual dinner, a quiet drink, or catching up with friends at the bar, Porter Café always feels welcoming. For anyone in West Roxbury or the surrounding area looking for great food, a comfortable atmosphere, and excellent service, Porter Café never disappoints. read more

Porter Cafe - Amazing Burger - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

Love this pub! The food & cocktails are always delicious & we love their seasonal offerings. The staff is friendly & the outdoor seating is nice in the summer. read more

I stop in when in area as nice small bar, tables pub with great specials and food. The Guinness help as well. I had the pasta dishes in past and very good. This time I opted for the burger and burger was decent , fresh ingredients, but needed more beef. Guinness beer was good . The other food I saw all looked excellent. I'll definitely be back as great service, friendly neighborly place where locals frequent and a quality establishment for a drinks, food and good vibes. read more

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Porter Cafe is one of those rare gems that combines an inviting, old-school charm with a culinary experience that will make you rethink everything you know about comfort food. Tucked away with its cozy, quaint vibe, this place exudes a warmth that immediately makes you feel like you've stepped into something special. The moment you walk through the door, it's clear this isn't just another neighborhood cafe--it's a destination. I had the Thursday special, which was rotisserie chicken with golden little potatoes and green beans. It sounds simple, but what arrived at the table was anything but. The chicken was perfectly cooked, juicy with crispy skin, and just the right amount of seasoning. The potatoes? Golden, tender, and bursting with flavor, complemented beautifully by the fresh green beans. Every bite felt like a celebration of home-cooked goodness, executed with a precision you don't often find at this level. My wife went for the chicken parm, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The chicken was crispy on the outside, yet juicy and tender on the inside, all smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with a generous helping of melted cheese. Paired with a side of perfectly cooked pasta, it's the kind of dish that hits all the nostalgic notes without feeling heavy. As for my son, he opted for the burger and fries. While it may sound like a simple choice, it was a standout in its own right. The burger was thick, juicy, and packed with flavor, while the fries were golden and crisp, just the way you'd hope for in a perfect diner-style meal. But here's the thing: as exceptional as the food is, Porter Cafe is about more than just what's on your plate. The service is warm and attentive, and the atmosphere has an old-school charm that perfectly complements the quality of the dishes. It's clear that a lot of care goes into not just the food, but the entire experience. In a time when dining out can often feel rushed or impersonal, Porter Cafe remains a rare exception. It's exceptional, yes--but it's also a place that feels like a true labor of love. If you haven't been yet, make it a priority. The food alone is worth the visit, but the overall experience will keep you coming back for more. read more

Porter Cafe - Sorry for the late pic, chicken Parmesan & Roasted Half Chicken, exceptional! - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

I am very confused by all the hype about this place. The food is TERRIBLE! This is a dive bar pretending to be a nice restaurant. This is more of a place to drink than eat, so just know that going in. My boyfriend and I went to Porter Cafe for dinner last night and had high expectations given all the five star reviews. Unfortunately, we left very disappointed. We both ordered the chicken Parmesan which was burned and blackened to the point it tasted like char and was barely edible. I came close to sending it back and walking out of the restaurant, but we were so hungry after waiting 45 minutes for our food that we just ate, paid and left. If you screw up chicken parm, that's a bad sign. Anyone with limited cooking skills and a bit of care and attention could have made a better meal at home. Not only was our entree a disaster, they forgot to put our appetizer in, so we had to remind our waiter about that after our entrees came out. They also didn't have any non-alcoholic drinks aside from water and lemonade. They couldn't give me iced tea or even a virgin mojito because they don't make mojitos. Also, the atmosphere was very loud and claustrophobic given the small size of the restaurant and we could barely hear each other. The bar was packed and very noisy. Bottom line: If you are looking for a nice meal, go elsewhere! There are many other places nearby with better service and food. West on Centre across the street is an outstanding choice. If you just want a beer or mixed drinks, maybe Porter Cafe is for you. Overall rating: 2 stars (being generous) Food: 0 stars Service: 2/3 stars Ambiance: 2 stars read more

Porter Cafe - Chicken parmigiana - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

A small beautiful gastropub in the heart of West Roxbury that you will not regret visiting! My grandma and I had dinner there last night and the food was excellent. They have a wide array of both small plate and main options for every kind of palate! We started with the simple mixed green salad with tarragon vinaigrette, roasted tomatoes & chèvre. It sounds pretty basic but it was totally delicious. I'm not sure what they did to those tomatoes but WOW the flavor was explosive. For dinner I had the sesame seared tuna steak with miso marinated tuna, soba noodle salad, edamame, and pickled ginger vinaigrette. It was fantastic. The flavors and textures were simply perfect. I highly recommend Porter Cafe! read more

Porter Cafe - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

Rushed and rude. I've been going to Porter cafe for years. The food and ambience have always been really good. But their service has always been weak but now it is terrible and it's just turned me off for the last time. Last night with an old friend went in for a 5pm reservation. Sat down promptly and ordered drinks. The waiter came over after five mins in a rush to have us order. When I said we hadn't had a chance to look he said "just so you know your reservation isn't unlimited. You have 90 mins". I was so taken aback. I understand restaurants operate on tight margins and need to move tables. I'm cognizant. But that warning made us both feel really uncomfortable and rushed. We went on to order fast and finish our meals and pay. Right at the 90 min mark as we were finishing our drinks he came to the table and said that the next party for the table was there. In other words shove off. Sorry but don't spend $100 here and feel like you are a burden. It's not a pleasant night (90 mins) out. read more

Excellent neighborhood joint! Was so happy to discover this place. Had an excellent meal on a Friday night. Great atmosphere.

We came here to decompress a little after a sad occasion and it was exactly what the doctor ordered. Friendly service, good drinks, calorie packed sharing plates. The poutine and Mac and cheese were big hits with us, and you also can't fault the meatballs. Just try and fault them - you cannot. read more

Next level! Great food, great atmosphere, great music, great drinks. All around loved everything. Very pleasantly surprised.

So chill and I love how late they're open. We got some gin drinks and they are so good! read more

Porter Cafe - Vibes are so chill at 11 am - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

I called the porter cafe for take out and they were too busy to take one order of chicken parm. This is first - I've never heard of a restaurant that does not want to make money read more

Great pub atmosphere. Friendly service. Small but varied menu and the food is consistently very good, along with a very good selection of beers. read more

Great neighbourhood stop. Great beer selection .A West Roxbury gem. $1 oyster nights, a cocktail selection and solid comfort food with an unpretentious international flair. Service is always great. read more

So good!!! A lot of flavor packed into a tiny space. Home style cooking with Boston flair. Recommend reservations or getting there early. The bonus of getting to the restaurant early is happy hour oysters. Everything on the menu is amazing. The staff is friendly and provides great service. Best fish and chips around and the pot roast is not to be missed. read more

Excellent service, amazing food, ambiance is excellent. You cannot go wrong at this place. My favorite chicken parm around. The burger is great too. Love this spot, West Roxbury staple read more

Porter has become a local favorite for us! We always order the pork schnitzel and then another different entree to share - the pork is consistently excellent. We've eaten inside and on their patio and service is always great. The food comes out quickly and is delicious. We'll be back again soon :) read more

I was in town and had an evening to myself. The host and serving staff were super friendly and I appreciated that because I was eating alone. The burger was delicious, and the atmosphere was great. Highly recommend Porter Cafe. read more

Cozy restaurant with a cozy vibe and cozier food. Friendly and warm service. We had the homemade chips, beet salad, burger, and bolognese. Also an aperol spritz and French 75. Everything hit home and would love to come back. Thanks to the kitchen & serving staff for a lovely evening! One minor downside is the restaurant is small, so if you're there on a cold night, the cold kind of billows through the front half of the restaurant as people come in and out. Bring a sweater and enjoy. read more

I was looking for my new favorite neighborhood place and found it at the Porter Cafe. The staff is always friendly and welcoming. Every dish we've tried has been delicious. The drinks are the best around. The vibe is casual and upbeat. I love this place! read more

Porter is still killing it as always! It's a timeless spot with the ambience just right between neighborhood bar and classy dinner date spot. Staff are great, all food is consistently fantastic drinks included. Always a joy to be here read more

Porter Cafe is best described as a bowling alley style restaurant with an above average beer selection and well rounded menu. I used to frequent this establishment a few years prior to Covid but found it to be increasingly packed and hard to find a bar seat or table available that would allow for a quiet conversation. A good problem for the restaurant but frustrating nonetheless. They now take reservations so hopefully that is a problem of the past. I started with the night with the short rib tacos and I must say I was very impressed. The meat was flavorful and juicy and the tacos were not overwhelmed with toppings or condiments but instead served simply with a bit of pickled onion on the side and a little cilantro and lime wedge. I could eat these tacos all day long. I followed that with the special for the night Fettuccine Alfredo. While I wouldn't necessarily classify the pasta used as "fettuccine" it tasted good and came out so hot I could only describe my first bite as a mouthful of lava. I have enjoyed there bolognese and mussels in the past and I hope to return soon to see if they are still up to par. Overall, I would recommend Porter Cafe for small groups and those looking for delicious food at a reasonable price. read more

Porter Cafe - Short Rib Tacos - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

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Great food and service ! Love the cocktail options. Lots to choose from including vegetarian options.

The last time I went we were seated outside on a mild Nov. night. Service was the exact same as inside. The servers are always very pleasant and helpful. Just really love a small intimate restaurant and they do it well. Thanks Porters! read more

Great place for locals to come together for a casual night out. The drinks were prepared so easily and were strong + tasteful. We had the chicken parm and burger - both were delicious and came out quickly. I will definitely be back as this might just become my next 'go to' spot. Stop by and see for yourself, just be weary that there might be a wait as this place is small and often busy... read more

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Love the Porter Cafe. Saturdays before 5 there's dollar oysters. The schnitzel is incredible. The burger is like a fancy Big Mac. The staff is great and the place is very cozy. read more

Ate outdoors on a brisk 45 degree nite recently since my friend was leery of being inside. We got the last table on the patio with the least effective heat lamp. But we had a fun time since people working were so nice and the place is well priced. They tweaked the painkiller cocktail (about $10) for me and did a good French 75. I got the large pork schnitzel with great mashed and a kind of funky slaw, a doggy bag was needed. Friend went with burger and fries and we both enjoyed the meals. read more

Porter Cafe - Schnitzel and mashed - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

This is a place to drink-- not really great for food. The food was overly salty. It's popular and packed with friends, families with kids, etc. The sound level is good to have conversations. The waitress does really want you outta there and will whisk away your plate as you are forking the food into your mouth. I would go here for the drinks. read more

Terrific. Great vibe. Good food. Good drinks. Efficient nice service. Honestly the platonic ideal of an excellent joint for an unfussy enjoyable evening. read more

I love this place. It's a cozy restaurant and bar with amazing food and a warm atmosphere. In the summer you can sit outside. The service is also very good. I visit as often as I can. read more

Andy and the rest of the crew are all great bartenders food is amazing and unique thou I always end up the schnitzel So good a lots of great food from a small kitchen Love Porter!! read more

Food and drinks were great! We sat outside and the atmosphere was awesome. The only downer is that the patio closed way before the restaurant did and we had to leave. Service wasn't outstanding but not horrible! read more

The Porter Cafe hit all of the marks last night! Cocktails and Sangria were excellent - we started with the meatballs and they were so so good. If you are a Caesar salad connoisseur like myself, I cannot recommend their salad with panko chicken more.... Dare I say one of the best I've ever had?! The burger and fries were also perfection. The Porter Cafe team were so welcoming and kind, interacting with them made us want to come back as soon as possible. The outdoor patio is also fabulous as well! Perfect place for an end of summer dinner. We will be back! read more

We went tonight on a lark. It's small, but it has a nice ambience. Cocktail list was pretty good; I got a penicillin, which you can't get many places. Many Gastro pubs, have mussels appetizers, but my favorite is the Thai curry version, and Porter has that. It is quite good, although I wish the bread they served with it was grilled rather than being untoasted. my main course was their a Poké bowl. It was pretty good, certainly had sufficient tuna chunks in it. My wife got their roasted chicken special. She said it was very moist, and the gravy was very tasty. Service was excellent. And, it all came to about 80 bucks, which isn't bad for two people for dinner. read more

My wife and I really enjoy the Porter café. It is a really lovely local restaurant with a nice variety of food, all of which is very good. Environment is very comfortable and relaxing, so it's nice to come at the end of the week for an enjoyable evening in the neighborhood. read more

Beer selection and cocktails were fine. Food was also fine - fish tacos, chicken parm, poke bowl. Nothing to write home about, but certainly not bad. It's a small place so we were less than a foot from a table on both sides. read more

Portions are big. Staff is masked. Buffalo cauliflower is good. They have a few vegetarian options, I got a risotto and was satisfied. Make a reservation. Overall, the food was not phenomenal but it's a chill spot for dinner on the weekend so I would come back. read more

Porter Cafe - Risotto - Bars Near Me - West Roxbury, Massachusetts

Found using Yelp after a sad occasion hunger took over and lucked out here - felt like a neighborhood watering hole - great burger and fries. Ibling got fettuccine alfredo and seemed very happy. now wish it was closer to home. read more

Food is consistently great. Portions are a bit large for entrees but great choices. Menu changes frequently. I keep missing their oysters

Great food. Great music on weeknights. Great bartenders make the place a joy to spend some time.