Our Picks for New England’s Best Comfort Food

Join the editors of Yankee magazine as we explore New England in search of the best unique comfort foods around in the Yankee Places to Eat Collection.

Irish Soda Bread
French Toast at
O’Rourke’s Diner
Photo Credit : Mark Fleming

Join the editors of Yankee magazine as we explore New England in search of the best unique comfort foods around in the Yankee Places to Eat Collection.

Any time you make a “best” list, you’re bound to find some differing opinions. The 2007 Red Sox with Dustin Pedroia or the 1918 team with Babe Ruth? The best lobster roll? How about the best beach? Even so, it’s a lot of fun to find out what people like, and to share our favorites with them. And these lists invariably lead to new discoveries and interesting stories. Comfort food is no different, even though there is no strict definition for comfort food–it just makes you feel good. It could be that slow-cooked brisket at a roadside stand or the perfect plate of eggs in a small diner. But sometimes, comfort food has a little twist to it. For instance, at one diner in Connecticut, you’ll find the chef up early baking fragrant Irish soda bread to make his signature French toast. Studded with raisins and toasted caraway seed, this multinational delight is served with homemade jam and clotted cream. If you prefer something on the more savory side, another Connecticut establishment offers braised short rib, paired with tangy sauce and served with a mushroom-rich risotto. The meat is cooked slow and low, and is so tender it almost melts in your mouth. It’s the kind of meal you’ll tell stories about. Crock of lobster mac and cheese In Rhode Island, one centuries-old restaurant near the ocean combines two New England favorites into a dish we dream of: lobster mac and cheese. The lobster mac comes in a cast-iron pot with a crown of buttery bread crumbs and a generous portion of chopped lobster meat. And if you fancy some spice, head to Providence for an Indo-Chinese dish that pairs crispy cauliflower florets with a moderately spicy curry sauce, and just a hint of sweetness. Closer to Boston, get a bowl of long-simmered broth, braised pork belly, and noodles at one of our favorite ramen spots. There are layers on layers of flavor here, with garnishes of sesame, scallion, and sweet corn. Expect a line on weekends, but once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s always worth the wait. And in Maine, a tiny rustic eatery (there are only six tables) serves vividly flavored Thai-inspired dishes that feel entirely local, thanks to fresh, seasonal ingredients. House-made noodles with Thai basil, organic greens, wild mushrooms, and chicken or pork belly are irresistibly cozy! Where can you find all of these, plus the best chicken and waffles? A donut you may only find in one part of New England? A brisket reuben? As part of the Yankee Places to Eat Collection, we’ll tell you where to find these and more of the best dishes in the region, in The Best Comfort Foods in New England, which comes as part of your Yankee All-Access Charter Membership. You’ll also discover where our favorite spots are for lobster rolls, busy or quiet beaches, romantic inns, and indoor adventures throughout New England. Plan your dinner now, by checking out our Yankee Places to Eat Collection! Whether you want to find the best ice cream, 10 of the best little food towns, our favorite cozy bars, or sit down for the best all-you-can-eat feasts, our Yankee Places to Eat Collection takes you across New England to explore the wonderful world that we call home. With your Yankee All-Access Charter Membership, you have full access to everything in the Places to Eat Collection, including: Homemade Chocolate Donut [preview_boilerplate]