
It should come as no surprise that Boston is a paradise for foodies who like to pair their gustatory delights with a side of history. Beantown is home to some of the oldest restaurants in America. The nation’s first cookbook was even published here—which makes sense considering some of America’s most iconic dishes were invented in the kitchens of Boston restaurants. Luckily, for gift givers, this makes finding gifts for foodies a breeze, since nearly every corner of the city offers up the chance to devour a slice of history. Read on for some delicious inspiration.

In a city filled with historic restaurants, Union Oyster House may be the most historic of them all—opened in 1826, it’s the longest continuously operating restaurant in the entire US. As far as food gifts go, a night on the town rarely disappoints, so grab a seat at the bar to get a prime view of the oyster shuckers working their magic. Or, take a tip from famous Union Oyster House customer John F. Kennedy and dig into his favorite dish: lobster stew, preferably enjoyed while seated in the famous “Kennedy Booth.”
Foodies in the know are aware that Boston cream pie is really a cake, but Boston foodies know that you haven’t really had the dessert until you’ve had it at its birthplace: the Parker House Hotel. Far from your average boxed pudding cake, the Parker House’s version features roasted almonds around its sides, and an elegant spiderweb design lovingly made out of chocolate ganache and white chocolate. Whether you enjoy it in the historic hotel restaurant or order one to-go, it’s likely to be one of the most impressive gifts for foodies you’ll ever give.
3. Raise a Glass to a Founding Father at Sam Adams Brewery
A tour of the company’s so-called “research” brewery isn’t just fun—it’s downright patriotic! Sam Adams considers this its “test” brewery, so aside from getting a glimpse into the beer-making process, visiting hop heads might also get the chance to taste a not-yet-released brew. Another bonus: the tour (and samples) are totally free.
Ask 10 Bostonians where to find the best Italian food in the North End, and you’ll likely get 10 different answers. That’s why an Italian food tour is one of the best gifts for foodies—instead of choosing just one, they’ll taste cuisine at several spots in Boston’s iconic Little Italy neighborhood, while learning historical facts to boot.
5. Taste an Endangered Sweet at Durgin Park
Once an integral part of the Thanksgiving meal for many New Englanders, Indian pudding is an iconic American dish in danger of falling into obscurity. Thankfully, a few Boston restaurants still serve the sweet, molasses-rich cornmeal pudding, including long-standing, blue-collar joint Durgin Park, a foodie institution in its own right.
