Somerville is located on the bank of the Mystic River and has a unique topography. Due to glaciation that occurred thousands of years ago, ridges were formed. These ridges shaped the “Seven Hills” of Somerville that provide magnificent views of the Mystic River and Boston. In 1917, the town had another claim to fame; Archibald Query created Marshmallow Fluff in his kitchen – the rest is history.
Shopping
High Energy Vintage
This fun store not only has vintage clothing, but they also have classic records and video games. Have some fun hunting for treasures from the past.
Magpie
This independently owned store features handmade crafts and creations from individual artists. They also have a variety of books, jewelry, and art supplies. Show someone you think they are unique by giving them a unique gift.
Comicazi
This is a place for fun – toys, comics, and games. You can also join them for book clubs and game nights. When it’s time for something new, contact them to buy your old collections.
A Curated World by Kay McGowan
Make your home special with home furnishings that have a global flare. They have rugs and furniture from around the world, including the works of local artisans. These designs and splashes of color will make any room come alive.
Big Fish Little Fish
For over 41 years, this pet shop has been providing Somerville pets with the supplies they need. They also sell both tropical and freshwater fish and small animals. Their knowledgeable team is there to answer your questions.
Ko Kyoto
Experience the authentic tradition of Japanese craftsmanship and artistry through the meticulously curated pieces in this shop. These objects are works of art that are also useful in the home such as pottery, Japanese knives, and wood cutting boards. Learn Japanese culture through workshops that include the preparation of tea, the art of decorative cords, and the creation of sliding paper doors.
Restaurants
Sarma
Sarma is fashioned after the Turkish tavern tradition of socializing over good food and drinks. Shared appetizers called meze are popular and further create a community ambience. There are many new tastes to try such as haloumi saganaki and avocado muhummara.
Juliet Somerville
This is Somerville’s answer to a European style café. Summer is celebrated with Beach Rose specials, and their delicious choices rotate so when you return, you can try something new.
The Painted Burro
This Mexican Restaurant has over 100 rums, tequilas, and mezcals! Their bright décor invites you to have fun, and their all-you-can-eat menu lets you try a variety of small plates. In addition to the meat dishes, there are some great vegetarian choices.
Field & Vine
You will be delighted with the meals prepared using fresh ingredients from local farms and fishers. Even the wines are from producers who practice organic farming. The menu changes are based on the seasons and availability.
Koshari Mama
Koshari is a traditional Egyptian dish made with lentils, rice, pasta, crispy fried onions, and chickpeas. It is served with a variety of sauces of your choice. Koshari Mama began by sharing their vegan dishes at local farmers markets. It has received praise from HappyCow.net, Eater Boston, Boston Magazine, and The Food Lens.
Redbones
When you have a craving for barbecue, craft beer, and Southern food, this is the place to go in Somerville. In addition to the barbecued meat, they have a large selection of fried chicken.
Entertainment
The Burren
Thrillist lists The Burren as one of the 21 best Irish pubs in America. This is one of the few places that has live music every night, a hearty pub menu, a full selection of beer, spirits, and cocktails, and a large selection of vegetarian options. In addition to music, they have a trivia night and a comedy night.
The Rockwell
This intimate, black-box theater hosts local artists and international performers. Don’t expect the usual here; this space is dedicated to creativity and versatility. There is constantly something new going on in theater, podcasts, puppetry, comedy, music, wrestling, burlesque, and more.
Crystal Ballroom at Somerville Theatre
Located in the historic Hobbs Building, this renovated ballroom has become popular for a variety of events such as weddings and parties. Due to its open space and state-of-the-art concert audio and lighting system, it has also become a venue for live concerts.
The Center for the Arts at the Armory
Somerville’s historic armory is home to the Performance Hall and ROOTED Armory Café & Farmstand. This community arts center hosts performances, cultural events, exhibitions, markets, and classes. The Café provides drinks, smoothies, sandwiches, and locally sourced specialty products.
Parma Chai Out of the Blue Community Arts Gallery
For 30 years, this beloved art gallery has served the people of Somerville. People gather here for music, classes, dance, and yoga. It fosters the artistic community by providing space for artists and artisans.
Casey’s
This lively Irish tavern provides a large beer selection, keno, live music, pizza, sandwiches, and interesting bar bites. Try their Friday fried fish specials while you listen to some great music.
Green Space
Prospect Hill Park
This lovely green space is next to the Prospect Hill Memorial Flag Tower and Observatory. In 1776, the first true American flag, the Grand Union Flag, was raised here. The grounds also contain a playground and a basketball court.
Foss Park
This is a park for playing. They have tennis courts, a swimming pool, and baseball diamonds. There are also some open spaces to just relax and take in the sites.
Sylvester Baxter Riverfront Park
Along with beautiful views of the Mystic River, there is a pedestrian path that runs along the water. This park is a favorite for Somerville outdoor events.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is famous for its unique playground equipment and its large variety of outdoor amenities. In addition to the playground, they have a fenced-in dog area, splash pads, athletic fields, a skatepark, picnic tables, and paths.
Luxury Apartments in Somerville, MA
Somerville is a city of squares and one of the most popular areas is in Assembly Square. The luxury apartments at Assembly Row in Somerville are highly prized for their convenient locations and fabulous amenities such as river views, fitness centers, pet accommodations, courtyards with grills, pools, lounges, and game rooms. Make sure you also check out the luxurious buildings in Powder House Square, East Somerville, and Winter Hill. There are also buildings that offer off-street parking and covered parking.
Transportation
In addition to the numerous bus routes, there are two MBTA stations – the Orange Line at Assembly Square and the Red Line at Davis Square.
More and more people are realizing that Somerville is a terrific place to live, especially in a luxury apartment. Only two miles away from Boston, it still manages to maintain the close-knit feel of a small town. It has emerged from its industrial past to become a shining example of an east coast suburb. It won the All-American City Award three times! Come and see why.