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    Union Oyster House

    3.5 (4.1k reviews)
    ModerateSeafood
    Closed 11:00 am - 9:00 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

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    UNION OYSTER HOUSE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Touristy
    Classy
    Moderate noise

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    Recommended Reviews - Union Oyster House

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    Ye Olde Seafood Platter
    Jasmine F.

    While visiting Boston, I made a stop at Union Oyster House for the experience and overall, it was a good one. I tried the clam chowder and the Ye Olde Seafood Platter. The chowder was warm, creamy, and comforting, and the platter was enjoyable with a nice variety of seafood. Everything was cooked well and definitely satisfying, especially as a visitor wanting to try a historic spot. That said, while I enjoyed it, it probably wouldn't be my go-to seafood spot if I lived in or regularly visited Boston. There are just so many options in the city. However... I do feel like I need to come back and try the oysters, it only feels right given the name and history of the place. Overall, a solid experience, especially if you're visiting and want to check out a Boston classic.

    Oysters
    Caroline E.

    My husband was dying to stop here as we were walking around Boston and so glad we did! The staff were super friendly and we found a seat at the bar to grab a drink and an app. We got oysters which were incredible and a clam chowder that came with corn bread which was delicious and kept us going for more walking around the city.

    Outside
    Steve C.

    Steeped in history, this 200-year old restaurant wreaks with raw charm. It is a fairly large restaurant with many unique dining areas. I sat at one of the bars for dinner. Started with a UOH exclusive beer from Sam Adams - the Colonial Ale. What a fantastic ale and it was the highlight for me from this visit. I will be back just to drink more of this incredible, authentic, colonial period recipe. For dinner I went with Ye Olde Seafood Platter. Wishing I would've went with the cold seafood platter as I was not an overall fan of the fried version. I didn't care for the breading and the seafood didn't stand out - this dish was just a miss for me. I would definitely try some raw seafood on my next visit. Service from the bartender was great during my visit. Prices are on the high side, especially the drinks.

    Freshly Shucked Oysters
    Monica M.

    Really don't get why the reviews for this classic place are so mixed. I thought the service was fantastic. The decor is nostalgic and unique. And the food was soooo good! We started with some super fresh raw oysters on the half shell and they did not disappoint one bit. So fresh and perfectly shucked. Then we had a cup of Clam Chowder which was filling and chock full of yumminess. Then I had the lobster Mac and cheese that had huge chunks of lobster with creamy cheese and yummy fries to dip into the cheese. So good. Sure it's a little pricey for the lobster dishes but lobster is expensive everywhere in Boston. Do yourself a favor and check this place out. It's the oldest running restaurant in the USA. Why in the world wouldn't you give it a try and decide for yourself? I give this place two very big thumbs up!

    Catch of the Day, Haddock
    Jordan B.

    Jane or Janie was our server and she was the best! Super nice to me and my daughters, chatting when we wanted but giving us space when eating. The warm complimentary cornbread was sweet and dense, a great welcome on a cold day The clam chowder tastes great but had less clam and potatoes chunks than others we have tried in Boston. The Boston baked beans were great, not too sweet. The main setback was the catch of the day was haddock (standard fish for fish and chips) which I got with a side of mashed potatoes and for $31 the fish was pretty small. I would expect that if it was a better quality fish. We topped it off with Boston Crème Pie to have a full on tourist meal and it was delicious. Everything except the haddock was a great portion for the price.

    Warm lobster roll
    Victoria G.

    Such a good spot! We stopped here on our way walking the freedom trail and it was the perfect little break. We ordered a warm lobster roll and crab cakes. They give you cornbread as soon as you sit down and everything we had was delicious! Our waiter was super friendly and attentive to anything we needed. The restaurant was big and had two different bars to sit at. Also a lot of cool decorations!

    Nicole F.

    Americas oldest restaurant, established in 1826 this antique building is stepping through Boston's infamous history, oh if these walls could talk! We sat in booth 18, which is noted to be JFK's favorite seat, we were seated upstairs which was very dimly lit and difficult to see. I was disappointed in the portion sizes of the food especially given the price. For a $34 broild fish dinner you are given the option of one side, we left hungry. I ordered a bowl of chowder which was more like a cup size, it was luke warm and not many clams at all. I was pretty disappointed in the visit and had high hopes or this famous restaurant. For the prices they charge, I expected better.

    Lobster Ravioli
    Shaunevalice L.

    When planning my trip to Boston, seafood was at the very top of my list. I came ready to experience a true New England feast, so I decided to order a little bit of everything that caught my eye: clam chowder, a cold lobster roll (their recommendation), lobster ravioli, mussels, a half dozen oysters, and fried cod. From the moment we sat down, they welcomed us with a piece of cornbread--and that was a great start. The cornbread was warm, moist, and flavorful. I really enjoyed it. The clam chowder was just as satisfying--creamy, rich, and comforting exactly how you hope it will be in Boston. Bonus: they'll even give you the recipe if you ask, which is a really nice touch. The lobster ravioli was a pleasant surprise. The pasta was tender, and the filling had a nice lobster flavor without being overpowering. The sauce complemented it well and made it feel like a solid, well-balanced dish. It wasn't the standout of the night, but it was definitely enjoyable and worth trying. The lobster roll, however, was a bit of a letdown. It was smaller than I expected and, in my opinion, not worth the price. The oysters were also on the smaller side--very flat--but they were fresh and tasty. On a more positive note, the mussels were absolutely delicious. You get a generous portion at a good price, and they were flavorful and filling. The fried cod was good--solid and enjoyable--but nothing particularly special. Overall, I came expecting a Boston home run on the food, and I'd say I got a solid double. That said, the atmosphere and history of this place are unmatched. This is Union Oyster House--recognized as the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States. Multiple U.S. Presidents have dined here, including John F. Kennedy, who was known to frequent the upstairs booth that still bears his name. The look, the feel, and the historic charm add something special to the overall experience. So while the food didn't completely knock it out of the park, the history and ambiance make it a memorable stop in Boston. If you're looking to soak in tradition and enjoy classic seafood in a place full of American history, it's worth the visit.

    Jon R.

    What a great evening held at the UNION OYSTER HOUSE last night for HOMECOMING for MISS CHINESE CHAMBER of COMMERCE "LAUREN XU". That was held on the second floor of this Historic Restaurant which is Celebrating 200 Years! This iconic spot was the backdrop of this Political Star Studded Event that packed the room with WELL WISHERS and Friends and family! Lauren Xu (23) a Harvard Graduate and US PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLAR was Crowned Miss Chinese Boston on October 5, 2025. It brought out all that wanted to Congratulate Lauren Xu for Winning Miss Chinese Chambers of Commerce & FIRST PRINCESS at Miss Chinatown USA 2026 in San Francisco! The Union Oyster House had prepared an array of Appetizers such as Stuffed Clam Shells, Croquets, Meat Balls and their Prize Winning New England Clam Chowder with Hot Corn Bread and Oyster Crackers! The sit down dinner had a choice of Fresh White Fish, Glazed Baby Carrots and whipped Mashed Potatoes, also Chicken entree was also served! Dessert was a huge Sheet Cake for Lauren and the Festivities continued with several Speeches like Bostons own ED FLYNN City Councilman 2nd District, who was extremely supportive and generous to all who attended, other Speakers such as Quincy's Own First Time Elected School Committee Member TOM LEUNG, Actress TINA CARUSO, can be seen in the Series "LOVE on the SPECTRUM " on NETFLIX! There were so many Notable speakers and guests such as Middlesex District Attorney MARIAN RYAN in attendance! Lauren Xu was Presented from MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES with a Congratulatory Citation signed by Speaker of the House RONALD J. MARIANO. The Support from the City's Political landscape was amazing and to have this Event at this location was much more exciting! The Staff could not have been any more attentive and helpful! The Staff truly made all of us feel welcomed! I will definitely have to visit very soon to Celebrate its 200th year! Location is perfect and there are so much visual artifacts throughout this Beloved Restaurant! If your from Massachusetts or not, do not pass this restaurant up! Food plus the oyster bar is a must Visit stop! Many Best Wishes for LAUREN XU IN THE FUTURE! We are all very Proud!

    Outside
    Elena Y.

    The entire building was historic and old timey. It's right off the Freedom Trail and very easy to find. The menu is tried and true classics. If you're looking for nouveau cuisine this is not for you. The seafood was very good quality. Portion size respectable. The seasoning on point. Our server was very friendly. All in all a good tourist destination. I did say tourist so the prices a tad high. But I would still recommend if you're visiting Boston.

    Cold Seafood Platter
    Luis R.

    Service was on top of it checking in on us regularly. The place was nice and quaint some of the booths were tiny but old country feel and vibe. Everyone was super friendly the food was super fresh and tasty. The cornbread was an unexpected tasty extra. Highly recommend.

    Fried Oyster Roll Lunch
    David T.

    The bottom line: 3.75 stars for ok sea food, kitschy but historic decor, slow service, and high price. Despite being the oldest continually operating restaurant (in the country I think) the updates have led to a bit of a modern mediocrity and money grabber. The fried oysters were decent and the fries were actually great, but were definitely from a mass vendor and cooked well. The sliders and hot dog were fine, but something you could probably get in a cafeteria. The service was slow and seemed discombobulated despite there being few patrons. The tartar sauce we asked for came after we had finished our meal. Glad it was open to feed us, but would not rush back.

    Cozy booth
    Bonnie Z.

    Heard great things so while on vacation we had to try it out. Cozy place and empty at lunch time. We made a reservation just in case. We were seated on 2 nd floor. Server was great and offered suggestions. We both had the clam chowder and split the crab cakes and sampler. They do it right!

    Bowl Oyster House Clam Chowder

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    Union Oyster House Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Union Oyster House

    Do they allow dogs?

    I'm not 100%, but i bet they allow service animals the same as most restaurants do. There is no outdoor seating, I'm not even sure if they have outdoor tables during the summer. Personally, I would only bring my dog out with me somewhere where there… Read more

    Does the chowder have bacon/pork?

    Not what I had when I visited

    Are they doing reservations on Sundays?

    Yes-- we had a reservation for a Sunday recently. But our 4 some was seated at a table for 8, which wasn't cozy.

    Can you just sit at the bar and order food if you are by yourself?

    You can sit anywhere. At the bar or a table.

    Do they have a happy hour?

    Sadly no they don't. They have special cocktails from $10 to $12 as well as a bar menu but no specials on drinks or food.

    The bar is open until midnight, do they serve food (like appetizers?small plates? oysters, chowder and salad,calamari?)

    They do...but no salads. Some locals complain that the soup isn't as hot as in the restaurant during normal hours. FYI, most locals order the steamed mussels or the steamers after 10 pm...guaranteed to be hot. I've not eaten there after 10, tho...… Read more

    Don't you think all the marathoners should get a beer on the house? New York and Chicago sure did

    No. You'll pass out and spend 20 minutes in the tent.

    View All 8 Questions

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    The Daily Catch - Squid ink pasta

    The Daily Catch

    4.0(219 reviews)
    0.3 miNorth End
    $$$

    This evening I went to the Daily Catch, because the sail loft was over crowded. We walked into…read morethe place, never being there before, asked questions about the menu, and the staff was not aware or sure of anything. They had a waiter come over, and we asked for what we wanted, and the waiter made it seem like we could not afford it. (It was about steamed lobsters). The hostess said th were no availability at the tables we could sit at the bar. We went to sit at the bar, and this party of 5 came over, and they tried everything to move us from the bar, by there actions and there level of disrespect, and it was excepted. I got up from the bar, and I went to the manager, who said his name was Jack. He seemed like he cared, but for us. I felt we was judged from the door. We were a minority couple, maybe that was not what they wanted to see I'm not sure. The money was not the issue, it was the principal. It was not about a 25 dollar discount, on a over 200 bill. There was VIP, that cane in, and he was on top of my back. While we finally got a table. It was just to much. It was very unexceptable. We will never go back.

    INTRO: Came here with a full group of colleagues from out of…read morestate, one of those company dinners where everything is covered and you just get to enjoy the experience. Safe to say, I was more than happy to be included in this one. SERVICE: For a busy Thursday night with a party of around 15, the staff handled things impressively well. Food came out in a timely manner, no confusion, no chaos. They were friendly, attentive, and actually knew the menu, offering solid recommendations without overcomplicating it. Managing a group that size is not easy, and they made it look smooth. AMBIANCE: This place leans more Boston bar energy than traditional fine dining, and that is part of the charm. It was packed, a little tight at times, but it felt alive. You are not coming here for quiet elegance, you are coming for the buzz, the movement, and that shared experience of a packed room enjoying great food together. FOOD: We went all in and ordered family-style, almost tapas style, sharing everything across the table. Squid ink pasta, black pasta, fried calamari, grilled octopus, dish after dish hitting the table. Everything was delicious, but what really stood out was the sauce. The broths, the richness, the depth of flavor, that is what stayed with me. I found myself talking about it mid-meal, and I was not the only one. At one point, people were practically trying to drink the sauce straight from the plate. That is when you know it is hitting on another level. You know you're doing a good job when you put much thought down to how you make your sauces and broths. I was impressed from both a top down and bottom up level of culinary experience. IMPRESSIONS: I need to come back here to on more sauces and broths.

    Photos
    The Daily Catch - Indoor Dining Room and Bar at The Daily Catch Waterfront

    Indoor Dining Room and Bar at The Daily Catch Waterfront

    The Daily Catch
    The Daily Catch

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    Legal Sea Foods - Long Wharf - Boston Cream Pie (Delicious)

    Legal Sea Foods - Long Wharf

    3.6(1.8k reviews)
    0.3 miWaterfront
    $$$

    Legal seafood in Back Bay. The restaurant was crowded because of the marathon weekend. We were…read moreseated in bar area facing the pier. I had the lobster roll and a cocktail The lobster roll was delicious! I like that I can have it warm! Perfect toasted and lobster was tender and buttery!

    Never tried out this chain despite living in the area for over a decade, so when an out of town…read morefriend came to visit and enthused about it based on hearsay, could not say no. Turns out, it's about what you can expect from this type of chain: good service, very pleasant ambiance...and thoroughly mediocre, overpriced food. Wouldn't be surprised if a lot of it came directly from Sysco. Previously I had tried the "Legal Seafoods Clam Chowder" sold at Costco, and found it to be very so-so compared to the "Captain Parker's" version sold at Market Basket. I was hoping the in-restaurant version would be much better. Wrong. Probably the most appalling thing about the food here were the fries, which come with most of the dishes unless you specifically ask for a substitute. I was glad that I did, because when I tasted my friend's fries, they were just about the most dry, bland, doughy-like frozen fries you could imagine. Only thing you can do with fries like that is to oversalt the bejesus out of them, and drown them in ketchup. Best thing we (party of 4) had was the Steak Salad---but when the menu says "petit sirloin" you dang better believe they MEAN "petit," lol ... it was about 3-4 mouthfuls tops! Really more of an appetizer worth $15 at most, not the $28 normal entree pricing. Fish and chips were particularly dismal---the fish was tasteless, most likely frozen just like the horrible fries. I've had better fish and chips from humble diner type places like Mike's Roast Beef in Everett, for Chrissakes. Hell, even Friendly's Fish and Chips doesn't seem that bad in comparison, lol. Swordfish and trout were somewhat less bad, but also suffered from the avalanche of cardboard fries. Anyways, now I know: I wasn't missing anything all these years.

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    Legal Sea Foods - Long Wharf - 10/14/2024 - A view of their wine fridge.

    10/14/2024 - A view of their wine fridge.

    Legal Sea Foods - Long Wharf
    Legal Sea Foods - Long Wharf

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    Fin Point Oyster Bar & Grill - Oysters

    Fin Point Oyster Bar & Grill

    4.4(618 reviews)
    0.3 miFinancial District
    $$$

    I travel to Boston regularly for work and I'm originally from the South, so I'll admit -- sometimes…read moreyou wonder what kind of hospitality you're going to receive (without wanting to carry any bias). Stephanie and Anna completely exceeded every expectation. From the moment I sat at the bar, they were warm, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. They walked me through appetizers on one visit, helped me decide on dessert another night, and everything I ordered was delicious. But what really stood out wasn't just the food -- it was the experience. They introduced me to other patrons, sparked great conversations, and created that rare feeling of genuine connection. Finding that kind of warmth and community while traveling for work isn't always easy, and it absolutely deserves to be recognized. I've now been three times. I typically rotate hotels when I'm in Boston just to try new places, but because of the consistently high-quality service -- not just at the hotel, but especially at the restaurant and bar -- I'll be prioritizing staying here moving forward. Stephanie and Anna go above and beyond, and it shows. Thank you both for the hospitality. I'll definitely be back.

    We came here for happy hour oysters on a Thursday afternoon. It was pretty empty and street parking…read morewas easy to find. The oysters were large, briny, and fresh. We had to get 2 dozen. We also had the clam chowder which was rich and bacony, and a flatbread and the scallops. Everything was delicious, but quite overpriced, and I think next time I would try to stick to the oysters and clam chowder. Ambience is nice hotel restaurant/bar. Service is friendly but they were very disorganized (tried to serve us things we didn't order or had already received not once, but twice!) and this was a quiet Thursday before dinner. I would come back because of easy parking and yummy dollar oysters. I wish there were more things to do around this area, but then I guess parking wouldn't be so easy.

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    Fin Point Oyster Bar & Grill - Bar area

    Bar area

    Fin Point Oyster Bar & Grill - Chicken entree

    Chicken entree

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