Union Oyster House Boston
America's oldest continuously operating restaurant, serving iconic New England seafood since 1826.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the lunch rush
Union Oyster House Boston
Best Time
Beat the lunch rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
America's oldest continuously operating restaurant, serving iconic New England seafood since 1826.
"It's a true Boston icon, and honestly, one of the most legendary spots in all of the U.S."
🎯 Embrace the History
It's America's oldest restaurant! Soak in the ambiance and historical significance.
🥣 Don't Miss the Chowder
Many call the New England Clam Chowder the best they've ever tasted.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New England Clam Chowder
Creamy, flavorful, and a true taste of Boston. Many rave it's the best they've ever had.
Oyster Bar
Fresh, briny, and perfectly shucked oysters served at a historic raw bar.
John F. Kennedy Booth
Dine in the very booth where JFK was a regular, a truly iconic historical spot.
Historic Ambiance
Experience dining in a building dating back to 1704, filled with vintage decor and charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History (and the Crowds)
Seafood Staples & Iconic Bites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the History
It's America's oldest restaurant! Soak in the ambiance and historical significance.
🥣 Don't Miss the Chowder
Many call the New England Clam Chowder the best they've ever tasted.
🍸 Grab a Drink at the Bar
Enjoy a Colonial Ale or oysters at the raw bar for a taste of history.
💰 Be Prepared for Tourist Prices
It's a historic landmark, so expect prices to reflect that.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the History
It's America's oldest restaurant! Soak in the ambiance and historical significance.
🥣 Don't Miss the Chowder
Many call the New England Clam Chowder the best they've ever tasted.
🍸 Grab a Drink at the Bar
Enjoy a Colonial Ale or oysters at the raw bar for a taste of history.
💰 Be Prepared for Tourist Prices
It's a historic landmark, so expect prices to reflect that.
🚶♀️ Walk the Freedom Trail
Conveniently located on the Freedom Trail, making it an easy stop.
👶 Kid-Friendly Atmosphere
Families are welcome; kids often enjoy watching the oyster shuckers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Union Oyster House is celebrated as a historic Boston icon, offering a unique dining experience steeped in history. Diners consistently praise the exceptional New England Clam Chowder and fresh oysters, alongside the charming, old-world ambiance. While some find it a bit pricey, the overall consensus is that it's a worthwhile visit for its legacy and quality seafood.
"Review for Union Oyster House – Boston, MA
Union Oyster House isn’t just a restaurant — it’s a true Boston icon, and honestly, one of the most legendary spots in all of the U.S. It’s not just known for its history — it’s known because it honors that history while still delivering top-quality food and service.
We tried several dishes, and here’s how they stacked up:
• Lazy Man’s Lobster – Absolutely delicious. Perfectly cooked and rich in flavor. 5/5
• Clam Chowder – No exaggeration: the best I’ve ever had. Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. 6/5
• Salmon Fillet – Fresh and well-prepared, though it could have used a bit more seasoning. 4/5
• Butterfly Shrimp – Crispy and satisfying. 4/5
• Child Chicken Tenders – Surprisingly good, crispy outside and tender inside. 5/5
• Fried Calamari Appetizer – Lightly fried, great texture. 4.5/5
• Ebenezer Hancock cocktail – Refreshing and perfectly balanced. 5/5
On top of that, the service was just as impressive. Matt T., our server, was outstanding — attentive, friendly, and made the whole experience even better.
In short, Union Oyster House is a must-visit — not just for the legacy, but for the consistently great food, classic ambiance, and excellent hospitality. We’ll absolutely be back."
josefercast
"Celebrated my birthday here- thought it would be fitting to get older at the oldest restaurant in the country!
There were two servers for our tables, which was a bit jarring at first, but worked out great.
Sometimes older restaurants can be a bit uncomfortable, but Union Oyster House was wonderful! We all found the booth and overall space relaxing and welcoming.
We split the mussels to start, which were wonderful. I had a half dozen oysters, that were all huge and tasty, and the wonderful clam chowder. One of us had the crab cakes with mashed potatoes, the crab cake had almost no fillers and tasted fresh.
The other had the sea scallops and fries, they were very happy with the dish.
The meal started with fantastic warm corn bread and ended with a slice of birthday Boston cream pie!
With a bottle of wine and one beer, the bill came to just under $200- which is not bad at all for being in Boston’s North End and in a historic venue. We sat by the Kennedy Booth, which is definitely a spot to check out when visiting!
Would definitely visit again and recommend to anyone!"
Cole Riel
"Got to try this spot while visiting Boston because it had so many great reviews. The location is super convenient—right near Quincy Market. They start you off with warm cornbread and butter, which was a nice touch. We ordered the clam chowder, fried shrimp, and lobster mac and cheese. Prices weren’t exactly cheap, and honestly, the shrimp and lobster mac were just okay. But the clam chowder? Absolutely phenomenal—one of the best I’ve ever had in my life. I’ve even tried the famous one in San Francisco, but this was way better. Next time I’m in Boston, I’d love to explore more spots just to see if anyone can top this chowder."
WOOCHIKA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Union Oyster House is conveniently located at 41 Union St, Boston, MA 02108, right on the Freedom Trail. It's easily accessible via public transportation. The closest MBTA subway station is the Haymarket station (Orange and Green Lines), which is just a short walk away. Many visitors also find it convenient to reach from the nearby Quincy Market area.
Parking near the Union Oyster House can be challenging and expensive, as it's in a busy downtown area. Several parking garages are available nearby, such as the Haymarket Center Garage or the Pi Alley Garage. However, using public transportation or ride-sharing services is often recommended to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, the Union Oyster House is a significant stop on Boston's historic Freedom Trail. Its location makes it an easy and iconic place to visit while exploring the city's rich history.
For first-time visitors, approaching the Union Oyster House as a historical experience is key. Consider it a chance to step back in time and enjoy classic New England fare. It's a landmark that offers a unique glimpse into Boston's past.
Absolutely! The Union Oyster House is centrally located and within walking distance of many popular Boston attractions, including Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, and the North End. This makes it a convenient dining option during a day of sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While reservations are not strictly required, they are highly recommended, especially for dinner or during peak tourist seasons. You can often make reservations directly through their website or by calling the restaurant.
The Union Oyster House typically serves lunch and dinner daily. Hours can vary slightly, so it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
No, there is no admission fee to enter the Union Oyster House. It is a functioning restaurant, and you only pay for the food and drinks you order.
Yes, children are generally welcome at the oyster bar. The restaurant is family-friendly, and many visitors have brought their children to watch the oyster shuckers.
While there aren't formal tours, the staff is often knowledgeable about the restaurant's history and can share interesting facts. You can also explore the different dining rooms, including the JFK booth, to absorb the historical atmosphere.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The New England Clam Chowder is a standout, frequently praised as the best ever. Oysters from the raw bar are also highly recommended. Other popular choices include the Lazy Man's Lobster and crab cakes.
The Union Oyster House is considered moderately to expensively priced, often referred to as a 'tourist tax.' While some dishes are pricey, many visitors find the quality and historical experience justify the cost.
You can expect a wide range of classic New England seafood. This includes various oyster preparations, clam chowder, lobster dishes, shrimp, and fish entrees.
Yes, while seafood is their specialty, the Union Oyster House also offers non-seafood options like chicken tenders and other American classics, making it suitable for varied palates.
The complimentary warm cornbread is frequently mentioned as a highlight by diners, with many requesting seconds. It's often described as delicious and a great start to the meal.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic exterior, the bustling raw bar, and the iconic JFK booth. The vintage decor and memorabilia throughout the restaurant also make for great shots.
Yes, you are generally allowed to take photos inside the Union Oyster House. However, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other diners or staff.
Definitely photograph the display of celebrity visitors, the JFK booth, and any historical plaques or memorabilia. The building's architecture itself, dating back to 1704, is also a photographic subject.
The lighting inside can vary, with some areas being dimly lit to enhance the historic ambiance. Consider using your phone's low-light capabilities or a small portable light if you're aiming for brighter shots.
Absolutely! The presentation of dishes like the clam chowder and oysters is very appealing. Many visitors share photos of their meals to document their experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical ambiance is a draw for adults, the lively atmosphere can also be engaging for kids. Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday afternoons, can help avoid long waits and make the dining experience more relaxed for families. Don't forget to try the complimentary cornbread – it's a hit with all ages!
💰 Budget Travelers
Alternatively, you could visit just to explore the ambiance and perhaps have a drink at the bar, like the Colonial Ale, to say you've been there without a significant food expense.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Take your time to absorb the vintage decor, the memorabilia, and the stories embedded within the walls. It's an immersive experience that goes beyond just a meal, allowing you to literally taste history. Consider it a pilgrimage for anyone interested in Boston's rich past and its enduring landmarks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: The Union Oyster House Legacy
Visitors often feel a palpable sense of history as they dine. The establishment has hosted numerous celebrities and notable figures, including President John F. Kennedy, who had a favorite booth that is still preserved and available for diners. This connection to the past, combined with its prime location on the Freedom Trail, makes it a significant landmark for tourists seeking an authentic Boston experience.
While the historical significance is undeniable, it's important to note that the restaurant has evolved over time. It's a popular spot for tourists, and while the food is generally considered good, some reviews suggest it can be a bit pricey due to its iconic status. However, for many, the unique atmosphere and the chance to dine in such a storied establishment are well worth it.
Navigating the Menu: Iconic Dishes and What to Expect
Beyond chowder and oysters, popular entrees include the Lazy Man's Lobster, noted for being perfectly cooked and rich in flavor, and crab cakes that are praised for having minimal fillers and tasting fresh. For those looking for a classic seafood experience, the lobster roll is also a frequent order, often described as generously packed with tender lobster meat.
While the seafood is the star, the restaurant also offers other dishes, including surprisingly good chicken tenders for younger diners. Complimentary warm cornbread is a delightful starter that many guests rave about and often request seconds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit