When Somerville was named Boston’s culinary frontier in recent years, food lovers finally caught up to what residents (and a few savvy carnivores) have known all along. Dining in this vibrant city just north of Boston is more genuine than elsewhere in the metro area, and even upscale steakhouses maintain an unpretentious spirit. And while some spots come and go, there’s a thriving scene of establishments perfecting the art of the steak year-round.
Abe & Louie’s
$$$$ | (617) 536-6300 | WEBSITE
This classic steakhouse offers a refined, indulgent dining experience where you can settle into plush leather booths or find a seat at the polished bar to savor truly delicious dishes for a special-occasion price. It’s elegant, warm, and slightly celebratory, which is exactly what makes it memorable, especially around dinner, when the atmosphere is coziest.
Order a cabernet or a Napa Valley red from their impressive wine list, along with a few favorites from the menu, such as the crab cake, Lobster Mac & Cheese, or the ribeye cap steak, which is better than regular ribeye.
Tony’s Pub & Grill
$$ | (781) 599-5522 | WEBSITE
This neighborhood pub and grill, known for its good food and casual atmosphere at reasonable prices, has been one of Somerville’s most-loved local spots for years. It was once a standalone operation—and even though it’s now part of the city’s dining scene, it still feels more like a great neighborhood hangout that just happens to serve excellent meals.
We love dropping by for a weekday dinner, when it gets lively with locals catching up over perfectly cooked steak tips, French onion soup, and some wings that keep customers coming back. The sports bar-like setting with large TVs creates an enjoyable dining experience where the friendly service and full bar make you want to stay awhile.
The Vermilion Club
$$$$ | (617) 546-5123 | WEBSITE
This spot in the heart of Somerville’s Financial District does great king crab tagliatelle that’s based on a signature recipe. The tender steak shows up at your table still sizzling, and the cocktails owe all of their balanced complexity to premium spirits. It’s open for dinner and also for lunch on weekdays, when you might need a break from the office hustle. The Vermilion Club is perched with stunning views, and most people gravitate towards its open-concept dining room.
But if you want attentive service, the stylish interior that’s lit with lots of elegant fixtures is a polished vibe, too.
Masons Steakhouse
$$$$ | (617) 689-8818 | WEBSITE
You’ll almost always spot someone celebrating a special occasion at a corner table in Somerville’s remodeled historic district. These classic, woodfire-grilled steaks are typical for fine dining across the city, and Masons Steakhouse is known for its attentive staff that are devoted to them. Perry, Maryam, and Ava, a popular team working the dining room, provide some of the best service.
Pick from cuts like perfectly cooked lamb or go for a classic filet mignon, then settle into the rustic yet classy ambiance to enjoy it with a glass of wine.
Alba Restaurant
$$$ | (617) 376-2522 | WEBSITE
Once you’re savoring the rich lobster ravioli, the hearty Bolognese, and that decadent chocolate cake for two, you’ll understand why Alba has become such a local favorite since it opened. It’s located in Quincy, offering a fine dining experience with a unique Albanian cultural touch. They also do consistently excellent meals that showcase the kitchen’s passion, plus attentive, friendly service that caters to every need.
Many other steakhouses might feel overly formal, but you can enjoy a lively, welcoming atmosphere here, though some nights the noise levels do climb. In the Somerville area, Alba stands out as a top choice for those seeking quality cuisine and exceptional hospitality, which makes it a perfect spot for a special dinner or a celebratory meal.
Grill 23 & Bar
$$$$ | (617) 542-2255 | WEBSITE
The consistently impressive dining experience is reason enough for venturing to Grill 23 & Bar, a renowned restaurant in Somerville known for its delicious food and excellent service. Since becoming a local favorite, it’s been a top spot on the radar for its perfectly cooked steaks, tasty sides, and standout desserts. Enjoy a beautiful dinner with a companion or small group—hopefully in the main dining room, because of course you remembered to make a reservation in advance.
Start with a well-made cocktail and some fresh oysters while you wait for your dry-aged prime NY strip or filet mignon to arrive, followed by the highly recommended coconut cake.
Rare Steakhouse
$$$$ | (857) 770-3300 | WEBSITE
The entire experience at this elegant, steak-focused kitchen is memorable, and they’ve got excellent dishes like the bone-in rib eye, a perfectly cooked cut that comes with thoughtful sides. The attentive staff, including a server named Vidas, delivers quick, efficient service from the Encore hotel location, and prepares things like the popular mac n cheese or the seafood platter with mixed results.
There’s an elegant dining room that overlooks the hotel’s sophisticated setting, but if you can’t get a seat for a special occasion, the atmosphere is also lovely and full of well-thought-out details that give it a high-quality vibe.
Oliveira’s Steak House
$$ | (617) 764-0455 | WEBSITE
With its lively weekend crowds, straightforward menu, and friendly local servers, Oliveira’s Steak House is what Brazilians might call a churrascaria de todo dia (basically, an everyday steakhouse). Open for years, it’s still one of Somerville’s go-to spots for dinner, where families mingle with a few curious newcomers at spacious tables that easily accommodate larger groups.
Start the meal with some deliciously uncomplicated meats ordered by weight, which are seasoned and cooked perfectly with typical Brazilian cuts, like tender beef, flavorful pork, or juicy chicken hearts. This is also a great place to pick up hearty dishes to share with friends, or to relax with a must-try dessert later in the evening.
The Stockyard Restaurant
$$$ | (617) 782-4700 | WEBSITE
Head to this steakhouse-like spot to try the classic American dish of T-bone steak, a generously portioned, savory, well-marbled cut (with a reasonably hearty price tag) that this Somerville neighborhood is especially known for. The Stockyard makes some of the best in the area, and, as with most steakhouses, it’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
The creamy macaroni and cheese and crisp green beans shine, as do the filling salads and burger-focused dishes that pull in flavors from the grill, like the savory cheeseburger and the house-made smash vegan burger with potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms. Book ahead for dinner in the cozy dining room with the fireplace glowing on crisp fall nights.
Seasons 52
$$ | (781) 272-5552 | WEBSITE
Seasons 52 is equal parts reliable steakhouse, seasonal dining destination, and neighborhood favorite, so come with a few friends for a special occasion or just a casual weeknight meal where you know everything will be consistently excellent. You’ll find it among Somerville’s best steakhouses, which means it’s always popular. The kitchen is also where the restaurant shines with its standout dishes, and everything else comes together with professional service and a welcoming atmosphere.
The menu stays fresh, but crab cakes, lobster bisque, Mediterranean chicken salad, and that highly praised trout are all regular favorites. Before you leave, save room for the little desserts—especially the key lime pie—to end your meal on a sweet note.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
$$$$ | (857) 995-6122 | WEBSITE
Come get a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned made with premium bourbon and a beautifully presented shrimp appetizer to go with it at this elegant restaurant set in a sophisticated, dimly-lit space perfect for special occasions. Many dishes on the upscale menu are prepared with exceptional attention to detail, so you’ll get artichoke dip and osso buco ravioli alongside the signature steak and scallop special.
Ruth’s Chris offers great value during their summer promotion, which includes a three-course meal, so come with a date or small group to enjoy the romantic atmosphere before your main course. Later on, there are expertly mixed cocktails, attentive service, and plenty of thoughtful touches for a memorable, celebratory dining experience.
STK Steakhouse
$$$$ | (617) 315-8274 | WEBSITE
Anything steak is the way to go at this upbeat, holiday-inspired spot in Somerville, right in the heart of the city. Definitely make a reservation for dinner and get the filet, some beef short-ribs, the turkey with stuffing and sweet potatoes, and a generous Thanksgiving meal. All of the seating is in the dining room that’s decked with holiday decorations and upbeat music, and just a couple of steps from the fun atmosphere. Friendly and attentive service is provided by waiters Nathan and Robin.
Smith & Wollensky – Burlington
$$$$ | (781) 951-2333 | WEBSITE
Smith & Wollensky is where you’ll want to come for that one big, memorable meal. Located in Burlington just outside Somerville, this is the area’s original fancy steakhouse, known for its classic American dining. It’s surrounded by the warm, charming atmosphere that everyone raves about (and you’ll get well acquainted with it over dinner).
Like most steakhouses, the menu focuses on high-quality cuts, but you’ll eat dishes like the wagyu porterhouse, Tomahawk Ribeye dry aged steak, or acclaimed mac & cheese, all in the cozy, inviting dining room.
Mooo…. Seaport
$$$$ | (617) 556-8000 | WEBSITE
If there’s one super-nice spot you should absolutely make time for on a trip to Boston, it’s Mooo…. Seaport. The short, wonderfully original menu changes each season, though the now-famous tuna tartare (which you can order by piece) and beef Wellington with foie gras and Kobe cap make regular appearances. The space used to be a warehouse, with exposed ductwork and rafters that give it an industrial vibe, while the whitewashed interior laid with giant stones is a little breezier. Mooo….
Seaport also has a few boutique-hotel rooms, making it an extra-tempting Seaport base.
LongHorn Steakhouse
$$ | (781) 942-4801 | WEBSITE
As soon as you start looking for a reliable steakhouse in Somerville, you’ll inevitably hear about this go-to spot for classic American fare with family-friendly vibes. This restaurant has been a local favorite for years and is known for its solid steaks, kid-friendly options like coloring activities and accessible menus, and reasonable prices that won’t break the bank. Pair it all with something from their straightforward drink menu.
Service can get a bit slow during peak dinner hours, so plan accordingly or try to snag a booth in the clean, welcoming dining room. Otherwise, be prepared for a wait, but the attentive staff and managers who check on tables make it worthwhile.
Davio’s Steakhouse
$$$ | (617) 981-4810 | WEBSITE
Head to the heart of Somerville’s dining scene for a steakhouse experience crafted by a team known for their city locations. Reserve a table for dinner and choose from a full gluten-free menu that could feature their impressive strip steak, authentic bolognese with fresh pasta, or the highly praised Asian chopped salad.
Located in an airport setting, Davio’s offers a surprisingly nice ambiance, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere created by sociable and attentive staff like bartenders Michelle and Alex. The restaurant provides a memorable visit with outstanding food that avoids the blandness of typical airport fare, ensuring a lovely dinner for families and travelers alike.