Oh, New Bedford. It’s like all the tourists from the whaling museum got the same memo: put on your finest nautical gear and head over for a historic selfie. But don’t let the cobblestone crowds convince you there’s no restaurant worth braving the harbor winds for. There are some truly great places to eat here. Exceptional, even.
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
$ | (774) 425-2983 | WEBSITE
We like Popeyes because it’s like the classic fast-food fried chicken—you can zhuzh it up with spicy options for a bolder meal or play it low-key with the classic recipe for a more familiar taste. Either way, it just always seems to work. Popeyes has been in New Bedford for years, and it’s watched a ton of seafood and Portuguese restaurants come and go in the town.
We attribute its staying power to the perfectly fried chicken that’s always fresh and cooked right, and an absolutely solid drive-through experience that delivers properly cooked food. The menu leans Southern—spicy chicken, classic fried chicken, and sides—with polite, friendly staff that makes the visit more enjoyable.
Restaurante Algarve
$$ | (508) 858-5043 | WEBSITE
Restaurante Algarve has always been the best Portuguese dining experience in New Bedford, but now it feels even more essential. The family-owned restaurant (and one of our most welcoming spots) is tucked away in a quiet area just a short drive from the tourist district, and the atmosphere is so warm you’d think it just left a bustling city street.
The old location was unassuming, while the current space feels intimate with a soft glow, adding to the sense of comfort and genuine hospitality about the meal you’re about to have. If you’ve been here before, much of what you’ll find will feel familiar: You’ll still gather in a cozy dining room with friendly staff like Carla, who knows the menu inside out.
And the kitchen continues to serve traditional Portuguese dishes with modern twists—prepared with care and attention—turning them into things like Chicharros and Shrimp Mozambique. Each plate is an exercise not only in authenticity, but in how comforting food can be.
dNB Craft Kitchen
$$ | (774) 202-0118 | WEBSITE
If the thought of making one more decision today is enough to send you screaming into the Acushnet River, put your faith in the very capable hands of the kitchen at dNB Craft Kitchen. The burgers here aren’t cheap, but they’re worth it for flavor that beats anything you can find in New Bedford—most of it comes from creative combinations like mushroom-blended patties and chicken thigh sandwiches.
Once you sit down at the casual tables, you’ll get dishes that could include herb fries with that phenomenal aioli or a well-crafted cocktail from their small but curated selection. Afterward, you can grab a bourbon nightcap while admiring the thrift store gems on the walls, adding to the fun, funky vibe of the space.
Royal Restaurant Cafe
$$ | (508) 997-5519 | WEBSITE
The caipirinhas at Royal Restaurant Cafe get the job done. But what this cafe does exceptionally well is food. Every menu item showcases Portuguese flavors—the spicy chicken wings are perfectly seasoned, the chorizo & cheese sandwich is generously portioned, and octopus gets cooked to tender perfection before being served with rice and beans. The restaurant is also just a great laid-back hang, with a cozy home-like atmosphere and a friendly lounge that includes a bar.
Wendy, in particular, makes guests feel welcome with her warm service, and the affordable prices keep things relaxed. It’s a hidden gem worth visiting for a memorable meal.
Metro Pizza & Sandwiches
$ | (508) 995-3338 | WEBSITE
Metro Pizza & Sandwiches is a New Bedford staple that somehow pulls off classics like the steak loaded pizza and Linguica Portuguesa with expert consistency. The food is best for sharing, so grab a group, settle into one of the casual booths, and count on a warm and welcoming (re: bustling) dining room. Adding to the all-around satisfying experience: slices of standout pies like the BBQ chicken pizza, noted as the best around, and hearty sandwiches that exceed expectations.
The staff goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable meal, maintaining hot food delivery even in challenging conditions.
Jimmy’s Pizza
$ | (508) 996-3939 | WEBSITE
When Jimmy’s Pizza first started serving up slices in the southend, it quickly became the go-to spot for locals craving something special. Possibly because they crafted a linguica pizza with such perfect slices of meat that it would haunt and delight your taste buds for weeks. While the food remains as delicious as it’s always been, Jimmy’s has settled comfortably into “Beloved Local Spot” status.
Calling ahead is always wise, but you’ll likely be able to walk in and snag a table on a Tuesday evening. What Jimmy’s truly masters is its dessert pizza selection. For around $22 for a medium pie, you can indulge in creations like the apple and cinnamon crumble with icing that boasts such ideal toppings and cooking it puts other sweet treats to shame.
Ground Floor Coffee
$ | (774) 202-1775 | WEBSITE
Ground Floor Coffee makes some of the most interesting coffee in town (and the neighborhood). We’re talking specifically about their affogato with vanilla and caramel, a creamy espresso dessert hybrid that comes topped with rich sauces and a generous scoop of gelato. Ground Floor could’ve called it a day serving those lattes, but there’s more than meets the eye here.
It’s a well-rounded coffeeshop with breakfast items and sandwiches—like a hearty steak sandwich and fresh-baked muffins—that live up to the coffee’s greatness, along with a cozy pet-friendly atmosphere in a space that feels right for a low-key morning meeting or just a standout casual brunch.
Ryan’s Sports Pub & Billiards
$ | (774) 206-6665 | WEBSITE
Move over fancy gastropubs and upscale sports bars—New Bedford’s most reliable spot for a good time is one of the easiest places to walk into in town. Prime game nights at Ryan’s Sports Pub & Billiards are always buzzing, and it’s one of the friendliest joints in all of Massachusetts. You’ll find regulars shooting pool by the well-worn tables with pints of cold beer and birthday groups digging into their mac and cheese with chicken from the big wooden booths in the back.
It can be a bit much with all the neon signs, sports memorabilia, and the constant hum of the TVs. But the food—like the juicy steak tips and the crispy tater kegs with sour cream—makes the whole vibe worth it, even if that’s not really your scene.
Domino’s Pizza
$ | (508) 996-3030 | WEBSITE
Tucked into a familiar neighborhood strip, Domino’s Pizza has all the hallmarks of a dependable pizza joint, but the execution here is more consistent than what you’ll find at other chains. That might have something to do with their focus on reliable service, and you’ll definitely feel that influence from the moment you order. Start with the hand-tossed crust, a sturdy and slightly chewy foundation for the well-balanced toppings you should pile on top.
The pizzas, from the pepperoni to the cheese, are satisfying, as are the wings and the cheesy bread for a side. Just know the marinara sauce isn’t what it used to be.
Sixes & Sevens
$ | (774) 202-6086 | WEBSITE
Sixes & Sevens is the best spot for classic comfort food in New Bedford. After discovering it earlier this year, I keep returning for the same straightforward menu and friendly counter service we all appreciate. It’s the type of place you swing by for a quick, satisfying meal after picking up supplies at the hardware store or running weekend errands. Grab a seat at the counter or one of the simple wooden tables and order up hearty portions of American favorites—burgers, dogs, poutine, and fries.
But as any regular will tell you, there’s always room for something extra. Make sure you save space for their popular Crunchwrap or steak and cheese.
Mikey B’s
$$ | (508) 985-0002 | WEBSITE
File this one under New Bedford’s ever-growing list of local gems that we’re actually happy about. This seafood spot comes to us courtesy of the Massachusetts coast, with a menu including fresh quahogs imported from the local waters, haddock dishes, and the Haddock Florentine—a phenomenal seafood platter with fresh fish, generous portions, and flavorful preparation.
If you’re planning a family outing ahead of time (and you should), jump on the seafood platter that feeds four but requires a hearty appetite to finish. They also have generously-sized glasses of Liquid Sunshine that we love for celebrations.
Pa Raffa’s Italian Restaurant
$ | (508) 995-7711 | WEBSITE
Pa Raffa’s is an Italian spot where you should go to share a meal with family or friends after a long week or because … you’re craving something familiar. Helping the cause: their famous eggplant fries, along with garlic bread that’s truly unmatched. The food here isn’t just delicious and consistent, it also has that comfort factor going for it with a classic lasagna, a massive antipasto platter, and thin-crust pizza topped with a sauce that’s not too salty.
La Candela
$ | (774) 328-8347 | WEBSITE
La Candela isn’t only the best Spanish spot in New Bedford—it’s one of the best in the whole city. And it’s hard to beat La Candela for dinner when you want to celebrate a special occasion or because you woke up with a very specific craving for oxtails with white rice. The menu has a wide array of authentic dishes, including roasted chicken with plantains, but the empanadas are a crispy and savory must. Throw in a glass of sangria or two, and dinner is handled.
Spicy Lime
$$ | (508) 992-3330 | WEBSITE
With its unassuming storefront in historic downtown New Bedford, Spicy Lime doesn’t shout for attention, but the authentic Thai flavors speak for themselves. That same authenticity carries through the menu, where you can get perfectly balanced papaya salad, crispy crab rangoon, fresh rolls with peanut sauce, creamy tom kha soup, and fiery drunken noodles. The yellow curry and green curry with tofu are particularly outstanding, with the option to customize spice levels to your preference.
It’s all delicious though, and takeout is definitely where this place excels with generous portions of flavorful rice accompanying every dish.
BesTeas Bubble Tea Room
$ | (774) 425-2052 | WEBSITE
You’ve got plenty of options for boba tea around town, but if you’re in New Bedford, it’s worth checking out BesTeas Bubble Tea Room. It’s a casual spot, so expect a quick-moving line to get to some of their famous fresh drinks. It’s a thing of beauty, especially if you order the Rose All Day, with its floral notes that strike a satisfying balance between sweet and refreshing.
You should also try their Willow Rose and Cloud 9 tea, with their unique flavors that showcase the owners’ understanding of tea. The delightful pastries and coffee are the best accompaniments here—just be sure to wrap your visit up with the friendly and helpful service. And if the atmosphere is playing nice, the clean environment is perfect for some relaxation with your bubble tea.
True North Nutrition
$ | (774) 510-5997 | WEBSITE
True North Nutrition is one of the first serious nutrition-focused spots in town. Now, there are other smoothie places, but this location is typically the most welcoming. You’ll often find regulars chatting with the owner here, especially during the summer, when a casual stop for a creamy, protein-packed shake is the perfect antidote to some downright sweltering heat. You can’t really go wrong with any of their smoothies, but the Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake shake is a step above the rest.
It’s a protein and powder-based blend with a cheesecake base, strawberry swirl, and crushed Oreo pieces, and you should always make it ‘meal replacement style’—the added nutrients and filling texture will keep you going through any self-imposed activity-filled afternoon.
Boston Burrito
$ | WEBSITE
While you can still find burrito joints all over New Bedford, Boston Burrito stands out with its generously packed creations and phenomenal chipotle sauce. It’s not some fancy sit-down affair, though. The space feels like a cozy neighborhood spot, with simple decor, comfortable seating, and a welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. There’s counter service here, with friendly staff ready to take your order, which is perfect for grabbing a quick bite during a busy day.
The tables by the window, however, are the sweet spot for enjoying a relaxed meal with friends. The tried and true favorites—the Nacho Burrito and Boston Burrito—are still just as good as ever, but the moist and delicious chicken in any burrito is a standout that keeps customers coming back.
