Dorchester is a neighborhood of waterfronts, diverse architecture, and rich history. From its Puritan beginnings, it has blossomed into an area rich in culture, education, and commerce. Many of the institutions and customs we take for granted started right here. The first town meeting on what was to become the United States was held in Dorchester in 1633. The first public elementary school, the Mather School, opened here in 1639. And to the delight of just about everyone, this was the location of the first chocolate factory, established by John Hannon and Dr. James Baker.
Shopping
The Local Hand
Local art and artists thrive in this community centered gallery, shop, and arts space. Handmade crafts tell people that you took the time to find the perfect gift. The Local Hand also hosts workshops and other events.
Domestic Boot
Most of us are not happy if our feet hurt, so get fitted with some trendy, sturdy, and comfortable footwear. New England weather can be tough, but it is no match for these American-made boots.
Truong Thinh Supermarket
When you want to cook something different, this Vietnamese grocery will provide the ingredients. Locals report this is a great place for fresh food and exotic spices.
Streamline Antiques
When you want variety and unique clothing and home goods, you will enjoy hunting through this antique shop. They specialize in kitch and funk from the 1950s and 1960s. Whether you are a collector or just want something different, you will have a good time here.
Chill on Park
This is the place to reward yourself after a long day. They have a large menu of locally made ice cream flavors, baked goods, coffee, and tea. A favorite in the community, they also host monthly story hours.
Dining
224 Boston
They pride themselves on their Italian comfort food such as salmon piccata and spaghetti carbonara. Also, their famous specialties include steaks and chops. When you want to treat yourself on the weekend, come here for Sunday brunch.
Yeanie’s Burgers and Social
Leave the fancy behind and dig into some old-fashioned, juicy burgers, fried or grilled chicken, and fries. Build a burger your way with a variety of toppings.
Landmark Public House
A taste of history accompanies the great food at this restaurant. Memorabilia, brick walls, and exposed beams mix with touches of modern Dorchester to let you know that this landmark is here to stay.
Harp + Bard
When you want to watch a game in a great neighborhood bar, Harp + Bard is the place. Their large menu has sandwiches, an array of comfort foods, and snacks.
Lower Mills Tavern
This restaurant was awarded by Boston Magazine as Best Neighborhood Restaurant Dorchester. In addition to the great food, they have Irish music sessions on Tuesday nights and other local artists on Thursdays.
The Pearl South Bay
As the name suggests, you will want to dive into this seafood restaurant. Fresh, seasonal seafood is waiting for you including such offerings as New England clam chowder and bang, bang shrimp. If it’s all too good and you can’t decide, try seafood trinity with lobster, shrimp, and mussels.
Ba Le Dorchester
When you want to try some interesting Vietnamese flavors, locals recommend Ba Le. Try some traditional Banh Mi made with pork, chicken, fish, or vegetables. They also have a large rice, noodle, and pastry menu. Be adventurous with some jellyfish salad or lotus root.
Shanti
Go to another part of the world for a culinary adventure. Shati serves traditional Indian dishes such as papri chaat and chana masala. They also have an extensive vegetarian menu.
Places to Visit in Dorchester
Strand Theatre
This Neoclassical style theatre is reminiscent of a time when theatres were elegant and ornate. Built in 1918, it has touches of Adamesque and Renaissance Revival. Now part of the greater Boston arts scene, it provides a space for cultural programming, community events, and artistic performances.
Boston Bowl
Boston Bowl is a bowl of fun. When you have had enough serious activity, come here to play. They have bowling, billiards, and arcade games. And people say that the food is delicious, plentiful, and reasonably priced.
The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
In this magnificent building designed by I.M. Pei, you can take an intimate look at the legacy of our 35th president. It is also home to the Ernest Hemmingway Collection containing manuscripts, documents, and memorabilia.
The Commonwealth Museum
Located on the grounds of the University of Massachusetts, Boston, the displays in this museum chronicle the history of Massachusetts. It is truly breathtaking to view documents that were instrumental in the birth of the United States. The interactive exhibits invite visitors to experience some of these events.
Green Spaces
Dorchester Park
Connect with nature in this 28.6-acre, Olmsted-designed park. It is part of the Emerald Necklace and has playing fields, playgrounds, and nature trails. And if you visit at the right time, you can meet the goats who work there. (They eat the weeds.)
Pope John Paul II Park Reservation
Birders report that this is a wonderful place to watch birds. They are 66 acres that contain nature trails, a salt marsh, and open spaces.
Dorchester Shores Reservation
Residents come here to swim or tour the tree-lined stretches along the Neponsit River. It includes 27-acre Malibu Beach, Savin Hill, 7-acre Victory Road Park, and 10-acre Tenean Beach.
Transportation
There are numerous ways to get around Dorchester and beyond. Catch the MBTA Red Line at Shawmut, Ashmont, Fairmont, Fields Corner, and Savin Hill stations. You can also catch the Fairmount Commuter Rail Line at the following stations: Newmarket, Upham’s Corner, Four Corners/Geneva, and Talbot Ave. Several state routes travel through the neighborhood: I-93, 203, and 28.
Rental Options
There are many luxury apartment buildings in Dorchester and there are many styles to choose from. Imagine living in a historic building that sits along the gently flowing Neponsit River. Imagine the apartments inside that building with brick walls and exposed beams. Think of how wonderful it would be to have a nature trail along the river right outside your door. How about an apartment on Dorchester Bay alongside a 38-mile waterfront nature trail? In some buildings, you can choose scenic views of the Boston skyline or scenic views of Boston Harbor. There are also some wonderful luxury apartments near the UMASS campus. It might be difficult to choose, so view them all.
Before you decide on one of the amazing luxury apartments in Dorchester, take a tour of this exciting neighborhood filled with art, history, delicious restaurants, and great shopping. Drift along the waterfronts and beautiful nature trails and see for yourself. We have only discussed a fraction of the interesting places that will make you want to call Dorchester home.
