Union Oyster House

John Hill★★★★★★★★★★5.0a week ago

Last time I was in Boston in 2013 I wasn't able to get into Union Oyster House because I was limited on time. This trip, I made sure that I allocated time and I was the first person in line when they opened the doors at 11 a.m. I asked for a small table and was provided a nice two-top booth in the back-room area. There are multiple rooms, seating size options, as well as bar seating at several bars. The facility is quite large and it's like a museum with tons of history adorning the walls, as well as several display cases and curios. I was greeted by Lorena who is a lovely person from Romania and was excellent to interact with. I wanted to try a few things so I ordered a cup of clam chowder and two appetizers for my lunch. I enjoyed their mixed seafood app which was cold shrimp, clams, and oysters; then I had an order of baked clams. Everything was delicious. The chowder was thick, creamy and tasted like the ocean. The cold seafood plate was clean, fresh and very good. This was my first time trying baked clams and I really enjoyed them. It was the perfect amount of food for a good lunch. I paired my meal with Sam Adams Colonial, which is brewed by Samuel Adams exclusively for this restaurant. It was sort of like a red ale finished in a molasses cask. Sounds funky, but it was really good and not overly sweet or heavy. I had a second glass for dessert. By the time I was leaving, the restaurant was packed and there was a line waiting to get in. I'm glad I went and I would certainly go again.

Mat Israelson★★★★★★★★★★4.0a week ago

A visit to Union Oyster House is as much about the history as it is about the food. Walking up the old cobblestone street and stepping inside genuinely feels like going back in time. The centuries-old atmosphere, creaky floors, historic memorabilia, and Freedom Trail connection make it one of the coolest and most unique dining experiences in Boston. The food was solid overall. The hot lobster roll was packed with lobster and nicely prepared, and the portions were generous. The oysters, however, had a slightly fishy smell, which took away a bit from the experience, and the grilled chicken breast was a little dry. That said, you don’t come here expecting a cutting-edge seafood restaurant. You come for the history, character, and the feeling of dining in a place that has been serving guests for nearly 200 years. For that alone, it’s absolutely worth a visit at least once while in Boston. The atmosphere is ancient, authentic, and undeniably cool.

Andre Kamps★★★★★★★★★★5.02 months ago

An absolute must if you’re in Boston. The oldest restaurant in the U.S. isn’t just about history — it really delivers. The selection of beers and drinks is excellent, from classic pints to a wide range of other options. Perfect spot to sit at the bar and soak in the atmosphere, which feels exactly as authentic as you’d hope. The food is honest and straight to the point: super fresh fish and seafood, no unnecessary extras. The breaded fish with fries was spot on — crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. The salmon, whether grilled or served with simple sides like carrots or mashed potatoes, was just as good. You can tell the focus is on quality, not presentation gimmicks. A nice touch: instead of a typical appetizer, they serve a kind of bread or biscuit — simple, but really good and fitting perfectly with the overall style of the kitchen. The atmosphere ties it all together: rustic, lively, and full of history. A place with real character. Bottom line: honest food, great drinks, and a memorable experience. I’d definitely come back.

Brian Atchley★★★★★★★★★★4.0a week ago

How can you not visit the oldest restaurant in the country?! The history here and the stories this place holds are amazing. True to the name, the oysters were fantastic. Fresh seafood, prepared well and a good variety of items to choose from. Don't leave without trying the famous Boston creme pie, you won't be disappointed!

Tina★★★★★★★★★★5.02 weeks ago

This is the oldest restaurant in America. It has opened since 1826. The restaurant itself is a national historic landmark by the National Park Service. It is very well decorated and I feel like walking in a living historic museum. The food was excellent and service was great. Definitely recommended!