Back Bay is one of Boston’s most upscale neighborhoods, but that doesn’t mean you must drain your wallet to enjoy some of its best eats. With homes for sale in Back Bay fetching well over $1 million, it’s understandable why some visitors assume dining here is expensive. However, armed with insider knowledge, you can eat through Back Bay. Here are some tips for eating well on a budget in Back Bay:
Best restaurants in Back Bay: Go for breakfast at Paramount or Tatte
Start your day with a delicious and affordable breakfast at Paramount or Tatte. Paramount is a Back Bay institution serving hearty breakfast plates like steak and eggs, omelets, and pancakes for around $10-15. Tatte is a local bakery chain dishing out pastries, quiche, salads, and sandwiches on the cheap. You can get a fresh pastry and coffee for under $5.
Hit the food court at the Prudential Center
The Prudential Center food court offers various quick, budget-friendly lunch options all in one place. Most items are $10 or less. Eat in the food court or get your food to go and picnic in the lovely Copley Square. Many Back Bay restaurants offer happy hour deals with discounted drinks and reduced-price small plates from around 3-6 pm.
Grab dessert from Georgetown Cupcake
Treat yourself to dessert without overspending by hitting Georgetown Cupcake in the Prudential Center. Their famous cupcakes are around $3 each, so you can pick up a couple to share without breaking the bank. The rotating flavors and perfect frosting make these cupcakes worth the calories.
Back Bay real estate
Back Bay is one of Boston’s most desirable and expensive neighborhoods for real estate. Many row houses and brownstones date back to the 19th century and have intricate architectural details. New construction in Back Bay caters to luxury condo buyers with amenities like rooftop pools, fitness centers, and 24/7 concierges. Despite high demand, Back Bay’s limited housing stock and historic preservation restrictions keep real estate prices permanently high. Many single-family homes sell for multiple millions of dollars.
Cost of living in Back Bay
Back Bay is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Boston, with a high cost of living. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages around $3,000 per month. Groceries at the local Whole Foods and other markets can be pricey. The average restaurant lunch costs $30 to $50 per person, making eating out costly. The daily cost of parking is about $40. To afford the rent, food, and amenities this posh downtown neighborhood offers, one must have a large salary to live in Back Bay.
Living in Back Bay
Back Bay, a vibrant urban area in Boston, has charming brownstone rowhouses, tree-lined streets, and iconic architecture that exudes a classic New England vibe. It’s walkable with tons of shops, restaurants, and cafés. The neighborhood is also close to the Charles River Esplanade for scenic strolls. Though expensive, living in Back Bay puts you steps away from public transit and the heart of the city’s cultural attractions. It’s an ideal spot for experiencing all Boston has to offer.
