The Thanksgiving holiday is upon us, meaning it's time to find your stretchy pants and to think about what you're thankful for this year.
Whether you'll be feasting with family and friends or doing something unrelated to overeating, we've got a roundup of Thanksgiving-themed things to do (and get) in preparation for the big day. From meat and cheese shops to bakeries, Hoodline crunched the numbers to find Boston's top go-tos for the holiday, using both Yelp data and our own methodology to produce a curated list of where to head.
1. Formaggio Kitchen South End
Topping the list is Formaggio Kitchen South End. Located at 268 Shawmut Ave. (between Bradford and Hanson streets) in South End, the grocery store is the highest rated grocery store in Boston, boasting 4.5 stars out of 202 reviews on Yelp.
Yelper Jeffrey C. wrote, "This place is a slice of heaven. We found some incredible cheeses, cured meats, spices, pastas, spreads and so many other wonderful treats. This is now a must on our list for every visit."
2. K & 8th Street Market
Next up is South Boston's K & 8th Street Market, situated at 362 K St. (between 7th St. and Eighth Street). With five stars out of 54 reviews on Yelp, the grocery store and meat shop, which offers fruits, veggies and more, has proven to be a local favorite.
Yelper Nancy M. wrote, "This is the only place where I buy my meat. I'm a life-long South Boston resident and K & 8th has been here longer than me. This is a family business that knows how to take care of their customers."
3. Salumeria Italiana
North End's Salumeria Italiana, located at 151 Richmond St. (between Bakers Alley and North Street), is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the grocery store 4.5 stars out of 144 reviews.
"I can't believe I just discovered this little Italian Market," said Yelper Kirsti G. "Immediately upon entering, I knew I found a gem. If you need meats, cheeses, olives, spreads or breads, come here! I can't recommend Salumeria Italiana enough!"
4. Mike's Pastry
Topping the list for bakeries is Mike's Pastry. Located at 300 Hanover St. (between Wesley and Lathrop places) in North End, the shop, which offers desserts, gelato and more, is the most popular bakery in Boston, boasting four stars out of 6,426 reviews on Yelp.
"The cannolis are out of this world," wrote Yelper Alyssa B. "Know what you want by the time you get there, and have your cash ready because they don't take credit cards. They also have a full pastry menu with cupcakes, cookies, and anything else you could want!"
5. Modern Pastry Shop
North End's Modern Pastry Shop, located at 257 Hanover St. (between Richmond Street and Board Alley), is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the bakery four stars out of 1,700 reviews.
Yelper Ariel B. wrote, "After researching the best places for dessert in Boston, this place came up and I wasn't disappointed! I waited for about 30 minutes to get some cannolis and was satisfied with my purchase. The flavor of the filling was so delicious and just the right texture. You can tell everything is fresh and handmade!"
