North Street Grille

https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-boston-brunch-restaurants

Best Brunch Restaurants in Boston | Eater Boston

"A longtime crowd favorite for daily brunch, North Street Grille blends the best of breakfast with the Italian American flavors of the North End. Try cannoli pancakes stuffed with ricotta cream and sprinkled with crushed cannoli shells or drink a blueberry muffin martini for a boozy kick. There are plenty of savory options as well in the form of omelets and Benedicts." - Erika Adams

https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-pancakes-boston

18 Best Pancakes in Boston | Eater Boston

"North End restaurant North Street Grille, around since 2004, confidently declares its brunch to be the best in town on its website and social media; it even secured the URL bestbrunchboston.com, probably a smart SEO move. Fortunately, it’s not all talk, and diners are enthusiastic as well. The pancake selection is daunting, with options including Boston cream (with Bavarian cream and chocolate ganache), cannoli (with crushed cannoli shells and ricotta cream), and more." - Rachel Leah Blumenthal

The North End’s everyday‑brunch institution: benedicts, big omelets, and cannoli pancakes nodding to the neighborhood. Frequently recommended by Eater Boston and local writers for its friendly, community feel.

Best Brunch Spots in Boston

A North End favorite since 2004, this independently owned spot is famed for over-the-top Benedicts, banana bourbon French toast, and generous hospitality. Expect a convivial room, big flavors, and that neighborhood energy people return for.

Best Brunch in Boston (2025)

Grace Massoudi

Google

North Street Grille is hands down the Best Brunch in Boston! The food is fantastic! Banana Bread, to die for. It has such a fun cocktail list with alcoholic breakfast specialty drinks. I love coming here! Yes, there is always a line BUT it’s so worth the wait! Highly recommend any of the eggs Benedict dishes, chicken and waffle sliders, and their Lemon Ricotta Pancakes!

Paul M

Google

Great brunch spot in a wonderful area! Highly recommend making a reservation it can be very busy but tables turn fast. The interior is tight but electric, the space is small. Service was quick, and the food came out fast with large portions. We took some home. Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and well-prepared. Fun atmosphere overall—worth the visit!

L.A. T

Google

From the very first sip of the pomegranate martini, I knew I was in for a treat—perfectly balanced, a little sweet, and not the least bit overpowering. I’ve explored many of the menu options, and not once have I been let down. The banana bread, served warm as a complimentary starter, nearly transported me to another dimension—it’s that good. Coffee lovers, take note: the brew here is excellent, made even better with top-tier Domino sugar. Every bite feels indulgent, and every visit feels like a celebration. The staff? Absolutely wonderful—gracious, warm, and attentive no matter where you’re seated. They really make you feel like the guest of honor. I have a ravenous appetite, but this is the only place that’s ever managed to defeat me, and I couldn’t be happier about it. I bring every out-of-towner here because it’s just that special. Just a heads up: make reservations if you can, and definitely consider a ride share. Parking 🅿️ is almost nonexistent, though there is a small paid lot nearby called Wharf Parking that usually has a few open spots.

Kenyon Bajus

Google

Great spot for breakfast. Decided to try it based on proximity to the hotel and good reviews and boy was I glad we did. Service was friendly and on point. Food came out quickly and was better than expected. The portions were large and tasty. The breakfast sandwich on a toasted brioche with sausage, cheddar eggs was so good I almost finished it. The breakfast burrito, French toast egg Sammy and pancake were also awesome. Coffee hit the spot. If I'm ever back in the North End of Boston, I am coming back here for breakfast.

Melanie Rodriguez

Google

If you're looking for a great breakfast spot in boston, you have to come here. North Street Grille has a unique menu that gives everyone a chance to find something they'll love. As soon as I eyed that menu, I knew that whatever I was getting would have to have corned beef. I have never had corned beef in an omelet, but now that I have, there's no turning back. The omelet was packed with corned beef hash and smothered in cheese. It was such a delicious mixture. I did add some hot sauce to it, but I just tend to enjoy everything with some spice. My wife ordered the Benedict in bed which was an interesting combination. Basically, it was a ham and cheese French toast topped with eggs Benedict. My wife absolutely enjoyed this delicious combination. We also ordered the homemade orange juice. If you go, this is a definite must. Not only is it such a delicious and fresh juice but it is also a large portion. Highly recommend and will be returning.

Chris Gerry

Google

We had high expectations and were blown away. Savory and sweet dishes alike are fantastic – the blueberry cobbler pancakes were the star of the show – the service is quick, and the portions are gigantic. Make sure to come hungry!

Maddy Driscoll

Google

Great brunch spot nestled in a cute neighborhood. Would definitely recommend making a reservation in advance if possible! We went on a friday around 10am and had to wait for about an hour to be seated. The inside is packed with tables so be prepared to sit very close to other diners. Food came out very quickly with generous portions! Overall very tasty, and loved the free banana bread tasting!!

Dulby

Google

Waited outside for a table, when we were seated tables very close, with loud people to both sides. Waitress for a bit nice, but high pressure. We ordered a cappuccino, she said it would take a while, but we didn’t expect 15 minutes, arriving after my wife finished her breakfast. Food looked quite good, but was dry and tasteless.

Cassie C.

Yelp

Worth the Wait!!! Definitely a small and simple place, but their food is anything but simple! We were given complimentary pieces of banana bread, delicious. Then my hubby got the short rib Benedict and I got the lobster Benedict. We each agree that it was one of the best we have ever had! Amazingly fresh and well portioned. We washed it down with a couple of their signature cocktails which were also good! Service was fast and friendly! Definitely an Awesome Spot!

Mary Kay H.

Yelp

Small cafe specializing in brunch. Friendly staff which is helping my rating to a 4. Fun cocktails being served. Hot coffee is standard diner coffee with free and frequent refills. Got the North End Benedict. It was luke warm, which was disappointing. Tomato was right out of the fridge and hollandaise was tasty, but room temp and getting that skin on it? Up charge for greens was rather steep at $4, being mixed greens with a drizzle of balsamic is prob cheaper than the potatoes and cost them maybe 25 cents. I'll pay $1-2, but $4 is steep. Best brunch in BOS? Eh, doubt it.

Lilly N.

Yelp

Food was great the lady that worked behind the bar was very, very rude! I had a big suitcase and with the limited space there, she told me to leave it next to a specific table and I misunderstood, so instead of politely explain to me, she became rude and aggressive ... then told me to leave my suitcase outside, since the place I left it next, was close to the exit door ... leave my suitcase outside?!? It was early, but man, oh man, how unprofessional that was .. Anyway ... my friend said the food is great, service is below any of my expectations.

Cheryl K.

Yelp

The good and service was great! It's a diner vibe. Don't go expecting an upscale vibe. It's very small but we were sat quickly on a Friday morning. Definitely a top tier breakfast experience.

Kayla W.

Yelp

The best breakfast I've had in Boston. Our waiter was kind and attentive! The place has got a cozy, diner feel to it, and the food was great. Big portions with great prices. The coffee was good, and so was the music. We had the best time! I have zero complaints. You gotta check it out.

Wendy T.

Yelp

Came for breakfast. There was a bit of a wait but with the reviews I was reading, I didn't mind. We ordered the breakfast tacos, a breakfast sandwich and wanted to split the Boston crème pie pancake- washed down with pineapple mimosas.... Perfect, amazing, flavorfull, I don't know how else to describe this place. The mimosas were a wonderful balance of juice and champagne. The tacos were much bigger than expected. It came with 3, and filled. I added pico, sour cream, jalapeños and some hot sauce to it. It was just perfect. Lastly- the pancake, it was giant, and topped with a warm and chocolatey ganache. The filling was just like the donut, not too sweet, not too much. Overall great balance .

Victoria C.

Yelp

The food was relatively flavorless. There are so many amazing spots to eat at in this area, however this place is personally not for me.

Ari G.

Yelp

Want BRUNCH come here !!! I got seated within 5mins of me being there because i was by myself if your in a group MUST reserve or wait is about 30mins... they was extremely busy but they didnt forget anyone. The fooood was amazing this is my 2nd time there i love the french toast also still my fav right now if you want a good strong mimosa this is the place for it it a glass is $13 not bad. Its not a big place but very clean not a place to dress fancy just a sweatsuit will do. Will be back :)

Napoleon M.

Yelp

The Guy who is hosting the front skip my party of three , gave us false timing , he sat four parties who arrived after us , claiming they did their reservation online & the website did not allow it to do so, he lied to us , have us waiting outside telling he cannot send us a notification through his tablet but when a new party arrived he said , he will send them a text message. Horrible Horrible customer service ! Extremely disappointed

Salma S.

Yelp

I had on okay brunch at North Street Grille. My friend and I went with very high expectations, and we were disappointed. I ordered the Caprese Omelette, and it was tasteless and bland. My friend ordered the sweet and salty sandwich, and said it was fine. I will definitely say though that the portions were great - we left feeling very full, and the side of fruit with my omelette was a very big portion. The ambience of the place is very crammed and tight, and there isn't any nice decor to make it feel comfortable or to add any aesthetic value. The service was good though - the servers were friendly. Overall, not a very good experience at North Street Grille - I don't understand how it has been named Boston's Best Brunch.

Claudine V.

Yelp

Yummy brunch place. The best in Boston. Good service Must make reservations as this place is packed. Parking is hard so better to walk or Uber. Trust!

Daniel B.

Yelp

Out of this world brunch spot in the North End. The banana bread we started with was moist and absolutely delicious, and we all loved our food - from the waffles to pancakes to more savory options. The drinks were excellent as well - I recommend the Raspberry Lime Rickey - and our server was very attentive and friendly despite being trained that day.

Merilou B.

Yelp

Came on a Sunday afternoon around 12:45 and the wait was about 30 minutes. Was honestly expecting worse given other reviews so didn't complain! Once you sign up on the waitlist they'll send you a text message where you can actively check the status of your place in line. Even if the wait is long there's a lot of things to explore/walk around in the North End so time will go by fast! When we finally got seated the restaurant itself it a bit small, so seatings will be quite close to each other but that's normal in the North End. Had to try the adult milkshake and French toast, but everything tasted delicious! Definitely worth the try and would love to come back to try other items on the menu.

Kathryn B.

Yelp

Everything about this place is amazing. So good we went back a second time in our 4 day trip! We had lobster and crab cake sliders, avocado toast, pomegranate mimosas, fig and prosciutto eggs Benedict and the crab omelet. Service was good and fast , but didn't make you feel rushed. It's a SMALL restaurant, prepare to be cozy. And if you don't have a reservation, be prepared to wait (but it's worth it).

Felicity H.

Yelp

Wait is worth it, service was great. The food was amazing. Banana bread is cold which is nice, they offer sugar free syrup. Prices are good, definitely will be coming back, the inside is small but cute little view of the street. They have a bar you can also sit at, staff was friendly!

John H.

Yelp

I ventured to the North End instead of my usual Boston Commons venue. So glad I did. ANOTHER HOME RUN. This long term icon is a treat. It will be tough for you to decide as the selections are inviting. My first time left me quite content: Healthy portions. Your coffee/water never empty. I love sitting at the counter. You get to take in the vibe and watch The Team in action. A real fun time. Thank you for your friendliness.

MJ H.

Yelp

My friend from Charlestown invites me here a few times a year for breakfast, and the food is always top notch. You want your homefries extra crispy, how Iike them? Just ask. You want a tasty mimosa, or a flight, or a watermelon mojito to start your day off with a mini buzz? They got you. You want fancy triangle plates with food from rim to rim? You're covered. I have never been here with anyone else, but I think it's time I brought my husband so that he can experience eating here as well. Make sure you have reservations, or plan to be in line for 30 minutes or more... popular place!

Gerald S.

Yelp

Short one but a sweet one Enjoyed a crab cake Benedict that was tasty. Thick French toast that was delightful I was too early for the mimosas so I can't speak on those although the pomegranate one looked intriguing Either way when I'm beantown again on the weekend I will be sure to make a reservation to be there timely for mimosas

Kenzie O.

Yelp

I got the banana bourbon french toast, very good, very filling. i can't remember our waitress's name but she was great too (: i wasn't disappointed in this choice for my first day in Boston!

Penelope A.

Yelp

Food was great! Giant portions. We shared some dishes. For a family of 11 we were seated promptly. The feel of restaurant was cozy and in a brick building on a corner street. We had a variety of dishes which included blueberry pancakes, sweet and salty sandwich, french toast with raspberry and cream cheese, sausage/egg breakfast sandwich, banana bourbon french toast,uber full crudite french toast, crab omelet, lobster Benedict, breakfast burrito, chicken waffle sliders and A meat lovers omelet. We also had several coffee orders, cappuccino and soda orders. Our waiter gave us excellent service and kept the cups full.

Julia M.

Yelp

My only issue was they took too long to seat us even though we came with a reservation. Other than that the food was amazing and service ok. Highly recommend the chicken and waffles dish

Angela A.

Yelp

This is my favorite breakfast spot in Boston and I've lived here since 2012. Delightful nuggets of banana bread for each table. The lobster sliders (3/order) are a great start to any brunch! Good cocktails, delicious Benedicts. They usually have specials as well. You can't go wrong but reserve ahead of time. The wait can be FOREVER.

Teressa B.

Yelp

Food was delicious. I got the short rib hash with two eggs, home fries and toast. I asked for over hard and they came out a little runny but were quick to fix the problem! It was just what I wanted! Highly recommend the Chai Latte Martini! So good! House was packed and service was constant! Would recommend making a reservation to avoid the wait time. Friendly staff!

Jay L.

Yelp

I freaking love this place. Always go early because it gets crowded. The portions are great. The food is amazing. The ambience is awesome. I have been there twice. The first time my cousin found it. Then we forgot the name and couldn't remember but then we did. I have taken my niece there and she also loved it. I highly recommend it. The staff is friendly and make you feel good. They don't rush you to get out. The price are good too.

Darelle G.

Yelp

Found this spot based on a IG influencers post about the banana bread and french toast. Asked the group if they wanted to wake up early on our travel day to get breakfast before heading to airport- everyone was in!

Kevin T.

Yelp

This place was superb waitress was very attentive and always refilled my water when needed. It's a bit cramped inside but worth it. The chicken and a waffle sliders were amazing. Bacon was tasty on the sandwich. The maple syrup was delicious. We also had maple waffle martinis. Which were also amazing . . .

Diana D.

Yelp

Unbelievably fabulous corned beef hash, banana bourbon French toast ,lobster asparagus omelette. Every time we are in Boston we make a special trip. Always delicious.

Erin H.

Yelp

The line will be ridiculous. Be patient - it's worth the wait! The staff hussles and the food is the best way to start your day. Been here a few times with friends while visiting Boston and each and every experience has been excellent. Lots of classic breakfast/brunch choices on the menu -- omelets, egg Benedict, waffles, pancakes, French toast -- and adult beverages Beyond coffee. My favorites are the chicken and waffles sliders (sriracha + maple sauce is BOMB) and the North End Bennie (with mozzarella and prosciutto), though the classic is great, too, because they make a mean hollandaise sauce. Pair with a grapefruit mojito or zesty screwdriver and you're all set for the perfect brunch!

Stacey J.

Yelp

Small and cozy, huge portions and great brunch. I got the French toast, which was delicious-lish, but should have gotten the Lobster Benedict because when the guy beside me got his, I was hella envious! Friendly staff. Highly recommend.

Dan K.

Yelp

Everything was so good. The service was on point and the noise level was a good volume where you could sit and talk, but not be drowned out by other tables' conversations. There was a wait, but they took us quickly. It's definitely worth the stop while you are in Boston. It's right by Paul Revere's house if you are doing the Freedom Trail.

Ana V.

Yelp

Omg the food was delicious and the atmosphere was welcoming and friendly. Plus the server was friendly and welcoming to everyone. Will be coming back again to eat here.

Nina K.

Yelp

Omg what a Gem !!!! I would fly back to Boston just to go here. The food was amazing. The service was quick and efficient. The restaurant was small but beautiful & clean. I'm now an addicted to the Lobster egg benedict , my husband had chorizo hash with 2 eggs was also excellent, my son had sliders and said they were delicious . I highly recommend this place and go early they get really busy. The staff is so nice they will seat asap if possible.

Mikaela B.

Yelp

This is not my first visit, and each experience has been excellent. Having recently moved to the north end, this was the first place I wanted to introduce to my boyfriend. The restaurant exudes a charming small-town atmosphere. They gave fresh banana bread to start that was delicious and the cinnamon roll pancakes were immaculate. I highly recommend making a reservation, as there is often a long wait.

Emma E.

Yelp

Really solid spot for brunch in Boston. I grabbed some food to go before heading to the airport and the staff here are so insanely nice. Really great work from their team, I wish I had more time to sit inside and enjoy my meal but sadly I had to run. I sat outside to enjoy the day and the waiting seats are comfortable. I ordered the crab cake Benedict and it was good. The bread was good the hash on the side they added some onions peppers and cheese to and it was delicious. Not the best crabcakes I've ever had, tbh they were a bit salty but overall the meal was solid. For me the meal was good but the service took it up a notch. This place is PACKED and from other reviews this seems to be normal for them so I'd expect consistency with their service/food. Would definitely recommend.

Bethany H.

Yelp

First stop in Boston and we left with no regrets! We did not make reservations and waited 45 min for a table for 2 on a Saturday morning. Plenty of guests arrived with reservations though, so I would recommend that! However, we spent our wait walking around and exploring the area around Paul Revere's house since they send text notifications for your table. It was very tight and crowded inside when we were sat and was very loud, but the service was quick and extremely kind! We were happy to see that their business was thriving.

Helen F.

Yelp

Avo toast eggs benedict with spinach was tasty. Be prepared to wait 60-90 mins if you dont have a reservation. There is a long wait every day, even on weekdays.

Ben S.

Yelp

My wife and I were visiting Boston last weekend and it's always my job to find banging breakfast spots when we travel. I found this place on Yelp and luckily made a reservation (Saturday at 9am). It was tiny and packed and noisy. Exactly what you want out of a place like this. We were immediately shown to our seats. My wife got the bananas foster French toast and a side of home fries (which were essentially potato wedges). The portion was massive and the food excellent. She took half of it home. I had the meat lover's omelette which was great. My home fries were a little under done. I loved the section of the menu that of Substitutions and Additions. Brilliant. It said that I could swap my toast for a specialty pancake but unfortunately they couldn't do that with the Boston Cream pancake which is what I wanted so I opted for a regular pancake which was excellent still. The only real complaint is while they refilled your water every time it was half filled, I had to ask for a coffee refill twice. The first time they didn't do it and the second time was when they brought the check. I get they were busy but a place like this should have a person whose job is to walk around with a coffee pot refilling. Don't let that stop you. I highly recommend this place and would go back in the future - just make sure to make a reservation.

Alissa T.

Yelp

Can I just say how amazing our experience here was? Flew in for a day trip with a friend and we wound up here for breakfast. Let me tell you all about Kate. This woman was absolutely stellar! We had a phenomenal meal, and made several recommendations on places to hit during our 12 hour trip. The list she gave us will live in infamy. Thank you Kate, for a wonderful morning and your prowess. We will come back to see you on our next trip to Boston, as we will certainly be back.

Bryan T.

Yelp

Tried because photos and menu looked good. Service was good and prompt. Place was buzzing for 10AM on a Thursday. Overall had a good vibe and nice bar. The food was mediocre at best (not sure if we ordered wrong). Ordered hash omelet with added mushrooms and spinach - cooked well. Flavor was ok, but not amazing. The home fries were well seasoned but cooked to point of being dry and overly crisp (some were crunchy/ hard). Ordered stack of buttermilk pancakes, but despite buttering and two syrup cups were very dry. Several pancakes on menu had added fruit, etc. Not sure if recipe required additional, but would not recommend plain. Didn't order morning cocktail, but a few looked appealing. And eggs benedict orders looked good. Probably should have gone bennies..

Jennifer U.

Yelp

This place is buzzing! Always packed but for good reason. The food was great we just had plain bacon and eggs but they were hot and plentiful. The bacon was thick and the sourdough bread was yummy. I saw several things go by and my mouth was watering: the sweet and salty sandwich was huge as were the French toast and chocolate covered pancakes. The drip coffee was great. Service was excellent. Again we didn't have real so we're offered a seat at the bar so I recommend anywhere in the north end if you want a table on the weekend then get resos. Went again the next day and got berries and yoghurt and oats, hubby got the bacon and eggs again. Great!

Haja F.

Yelp

I Have to say this is now one of my Favorite places for brunch. A Huge plus it's a stand out restaurant from All the Italian restaurants in the northend. You get northend and delicious food that's not Italian food is always so good and fresh. You get a pretty good portion as well. You Get a comfortable and homey vibe. And the staff is really great. See pics for inspiration. I don't imagine you'll be disappointed with any other options.

Kya I.

Yelp

Food was great,service amazing, just a very small restaurant, you'll come here if you want to be roughing elbows with some one/be holding hands through your breakfast or lunch lol (if you sit at the bar) highly recommend making a reservation this place is pretty popular!

Alexandra P.

Yelp

Gem! Pure Gem When you sit down they serve you with a homemade banana bread. The bread is moist and super yummy. To drink was iced coffee. Love that they do unlimited refills of the iced coffee. The coffee is smooth and very flavorful. To order was the following: Nutella French Toast Sticks: they are an appetizer but can be eaten for your primary meal. The toast sticks and plain toast sticks and served with Nutella on the side. The toast sticks were very warm and crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside. They sprinkle powdered sugar on top. You get 6 pieces in one order. Chicken & Waffle Sliders: Y'all BEST chicken and waffle sliders. It is 2 sliders - the waffle part looks small but when you look on the side it is a lot of food! They give you 2 big pieces of fried chicken with cheese and bacon on top. They give you a Siracha maple syrup which is the perfect blend of spicy and sweet. The siracha isn't too spicy so no worries if you are not a fan of spice. They come with homefries but you can replace it for another side (for an extra charge) I decided to get fruit. It's your standard blend of fruit (watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple & honey dew. All the staff are welcoming and super attentive. They are always around and all of them help as they come around. Top 5 breakfast places for sure! Once I come back to Boston will be sure to visit again!

Winifher C.

Yelp

Typically known for serving exceptional food, Burch didn't quite meet our expectations during our recent visit. The pancakes were dry, and while the overall meal was okay, it fell short of being great. It's possible that we may have chosen the wrong time or day to dine there.

Jennifer Y.

Yelp

My husband found this gem while we were in Boston for stayover before our cruise. Honestly, can't say enough good about the food the service just everything. Everyone was friendly and welcoming. The food was fresh and delicious. Definitely would return.

Chris L.

Yelp

Went for breakfast, and was amazed! I have a dairy allergy and they were super careful in asking if cross was ok with my eggs. Their home fries were some of the best i had ever had. My wife got French toast which i was drooling over, and still am thinking about. Portions are pretty large, so a good walk after was a great idea. The staff was super nice. Highly recommend if you dont have a reservation to get there for about 745 to head in. No wonder theyre the best brunch in Boston!

Danielle M.

Yelp

when I say this is hands down the best breakfast spot I've ever been, I mean it. We have visited Boston 2x and immediately talk about going here for breakfast! The menu offers a large variety of breakfast options and lunch options as well as delicious mimosa's! We both built our own omelets and as you can see from the photo, they are FILLING. The spot is located in Little Italy on a side street, it is small but they do take reservations! The service and staff were so polite and quick to take your order and get your seated! Definitely go here on your next trip to Boston!

Brooke T.

Yelp

My husband and I stumbled upon North Street Grille one morning and decided to stop and eat. The wait at the time was 30 mins. Not to bad. You can always reserve a spot on open table for the future. We shared the French toast sticks with Nutella -- AMAZING. I loved the crunchy outside. Who hates Nutella? Would order again. He had the breakfast burrito (huge) and I had the north end Benedict which was a pesto on mozzarella, prosciutto, tomato and English muffin. I really enjoyed our food here. Not only was it fast, it was really good. Would come back!

Carolyn B.

Yelp

The food was exceptional. I had the lobster Benedict Very good and lots of lobster. Staff friendly

https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-boston-brunch-restaurants

Best Brunch Restaurants in Boston | Eater Boston

https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-pancakes-boston

18 Best Pancakes in Boston | Eater Boston

Best Brunch Spots in Boston

Best Brunch in Boston (2025)