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Seafood restaurant in Boston, Massachusetts
What should I order at Union Oyster House?
What to order
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Clam Chowder
One of the most frequently praised items in the reviews; it’s described as thick, creamy, rich, flavorful, hearty, and among the best ever.
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Cornbread
Repeatedly recommended for being warm, soft, and delicious, with several reviewers saying it was iconic and so good they wanted more or even bought the mix to make at home.
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Oysters
Highly recommended for their freshness and quality; reviewers mention them as some of the freshest in the city, cleanly shucked, juicy, and excellent at the oyster bar.
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4
Fried Haddock
Praised for its light, crisp coating and very fresh fish, with reviewers saying it was cooked perfectly and one of the best pieces of fish they’d ever had.
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5
Lobster Roll
Recommended for being tasty and a standout seafood choice, with multiple reviewers specifically calling out the lobster roll as a great meal.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
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| Tuesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
About Union Oyster House
Historic eatery serving chowder & other New England seafood standards since 1826.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Reservations required
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
Frequently asked
What is Union Oyster House known for?
Union Oyster House is best known for its clam chowder and oysters, along with lobster rolls. Reviewers repeatedly call the chowder rich and hearty, and the oyster bar stands out for fresh, varied oysters and knowledgeable shucking service.
What dishes are most recommended at Union Oyster House?
The most recommended dishes include clam chowder, lobster rolls, raw oysters, fried haddock, and lobster mac and cheese. Reviewers also mention boiled lobster, fish and chips, and the complimentary cornbread as memorable parts of the meal.
What is the atmosphere like at Union Oyster House?
The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and historic, with cozy booths, an oyster bar, and a preserved old-Boston feel. It suits solo diners, groups, and tourists, and reviewers often describe it as warm and inviting rather than formal.
Is Union Oyster House good value, and what is the price range?
Union Oyster House falls in the $20–70 range, and value depends on what you order. Reviewers say the seafood is fresh and worth the visit, but some note that items like the lobster roll can be pricey, such as a $43.95 market-price roll.
Do you need a reservation at Union Oyster House, and when is it busiest?
Reservations are recommended for lunch and dinner, and the restaurant says it usually has a wait. Reviewers mention weekend rushes and walk-in waits of about 15 to 20 minutes, while a Wednesday afternoon visit was easier to book.
Is parking available at Union Oyster House?
Yes. Paid parking garage, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually difficult to find a space is available.
Is Union Oyster House kid-friendly?
Yes, Union Oyster House is good for kids.
