Boston's culinary scene is a bustling hub of new openings, closures, and special events, offering a diverse range of dining experiences. One of the most anticipated arrivals is the expansion of All'Antico Vinaio, the Italian sandwich sensation that first made waves in Boston in 2025. The Back Bay location, known for its massive crowds, is set to open a second site at 330 Washington Street, offering its signature Tuscan flatbreads piled high with toppings, which some claim are the best in the world. The Florentine sandwich, La Favolosa, featuring salame Toscano, artichoke and pecorino cream, and spicy eggplant, is a bestseller that has already garnered a loyal following.
In contrast, Dear Annie, a Cambridge natural wine bar, will pour its last glasses on July 31, citing operational challenges, motherhood, and a changing restaurant scene in Greater Boston that has become more corporate. The space will be transformed into a venue for bespoke events starting in September, led by owner Lauren Friel. Meanwhile, Cafe Sushi Nisei in Cambridge is introducing a weekly Izakaya Night, offering chalkboard specials like lobster salad inari and toban jan tuna tostadas, alongside drink specials including sake cocktails, beginning July 14.
The Best of the Wurst Festival at First Street Market on July 25 will see chefs from various renowned restaurants, including Will Gilson from Puritan & Co. and Tony Susi from Little Sage, create sausage dishes in partnership with the National Mustard Museum. This event promises to be a celebration of Boston's sausage kings, with a vote for the best dish starting at noon. Tickets are $30 for adults and $10 for kids under 12.
Additionally, Salem’s Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie, claiming to be America’s oldest candy company, will open a pop-up pantry at the 1715 Clough House at Boston’s Old North Church through Halloween, offering Colonial-era confections and a deep dive into America’s confectionary history, including original manufacturing apparatus and photos. Zinneken’s Waffles, a Belgian waffle pop-up, will also serve warm waffles, coffee, and ice cream in front of Boston Common this winter, with another location in Harvard Square.
