Union Oyster House

Last month, we found ourselves up in Boston for literally only a few hours conducting some business.  Being that we were right downtown in Government Center, it was suggested that we might stop in to The Union Oyster House.  Interestingly enough, I’d never been there before which is surprising since before moving to Florida, Boston is where I used to hang my hat; and I must have passed by this historical restaurant thousands of times.

Before I talk about the food, let me explain that the only thing older than the restaurant itself, (which was established in 1826; making it the oldest restaurant in Boston, and the oldest in continuous service in the United States) is the building that it is housed in, which is at least 250 years old and has been a landmark for most of that time.  Even the original cobblestone streets just outside the door are as old, or older than the building itself. Their website offers a great historical account of the establishment and the area.

We called in advance and were seated immediately on the second floor where, just after the Revolutionary War, a future King of France had lived for a while before ending his exile and retaking the throne.  Suffice it to say, it’s a very interesting place with a very full and rich history.

For an appetizer we naturally ordered Oysters on the Half Shell, and I have to say, they were yummy. 

I decided to eat on the lighter side and ordered the Clam Chowder and a Caesar Salad, both of which were decent, but frankly, I expected a little better based upon the reputation of the establishment.  The others in my group had the Sautéed Seafood Medley, which included shrimp, cherrystones, mussels, fish, and calamari, cooked in a spicy marinara sauce and served over linguine.  I tried a couple of the mussels and they were excellent. 

Overall, with the combination of the meal, the history and ambiance of the place, and the great company I enjoyed, we give the Union Oyster House a 4.2 on our scale of 5.  I might add, I found the prices very reasonable, especially given the prime location in the heart of a major city.

You will find them at 41 Union Street near the Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market district, and just across the street from Boston City Hall.  Their phone number is 617 227 2750, and their website is http://www.unionoysterhouse.com/index.html.