What I Love About
Boston’s South End

This is the third in a blog series “What I Love About ….”, covering unique residences, shops, restaurants and experiences found in the upscale neighborhoods of Boston. The first blog features Beacon Hill and the second showcases the Back Bay in 3 parts.

The South End has evolved to become an attractive residential alternative to the Back Bay and Beacon Hill for people seeking an upscale, urban lifestyle. In this blog, I describe some of my favorite places, including restaurants, shops and outdoor spaces. Like with previous blogs, I’ve sprinkled in some “fun facts”.

South-End-townhouse1

Did you Know …?

  • The South End is considered “the largest urban Victorian neighborhood in the country”, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area is distinguished by bow-front row houses, iron gates, and pocket parks, some with elegant fountains. No wonder it draws residents who seek a beautiful urban setting laced with history.
  • Earning a score of 96 from Walk Score, the South End is a walker’s paradise. Doing daily errands without the need for a car – how nice is that? Take a stroll along the Southwest Corridor for great people (and dog) watching.
  • Can’t decide whether to live in the Back Bay or the South End? Live on St. Botolph Street, which runs 8 blocks between Huntington Avenue and the Southwest Corridor. Parking signs say it’s part of Back Bay. Its zip code reflects both neighborhoods (02115 and 02116).
 St Botolph St.
  • This is the most dog-friendly neighborhood in Boston, in my view. The city’s first official off-leash dog park was created here, Peters Park. Professional walkers with packs of dogs are seen everywhere, along with owners taking their four-legged friend out for a stroll. Visit the South End’s dog boutiques and dog-friendly restaurants (see below) for even more canine entertainment.

 

My Favorite Places

Render Coffee – 563 Columbus Avenue. Magnificent coffee aroma emanates from this cozy spot where you can linger for hours. I especially love the glass atrium in the back.

Render coffee1

SRV *– 569 Columbus Avenue. One of Boston’s trendiest new restaurants. Serene Republic of Venice pays tribute to Venetian food with an extensive menu, mostly small plates.
Stella * – 1525 Washington Street. Great for night owls. Its kitchen stays open past midnight on the weekends, serving an extensive late night menu from 11:00PM to 1:30 AM.

Stella

Foodie’s – 1421 Washington Street. You don’t need to go to the ‘burbs for a full servie grocery store. It’s right in the neighborhood and has everything you need.
Polka Dog * – 256 Shawmut Avenue. Home-baked dog treats, toys and gear are this shop’s specialty.

Render coffee

South End Buttery * – 314 Shawmut Avenue. A real neighborhood spot surrounded by brownstones. Bring Fido to the patio and linger over delicious café cuisine.

Masa * – 439 Tremont Street. Terrific place for Sunday brunch, with a Mexican flair. Only $9.95 for 2 courses. My favorite, huevos rancheros, is yummy.
Aquataine – 569 Tremont Street. A haven for Francophiles (like me). Its appetizing French menu features two of my favorites: onion soup and escargots.

* = Dog Friendly !

Want to learn more about the South End or other Boston neighborhoods? Contact Amy Donovan, adonovan@landvest.com or 617.892.1100.