BEST New England Diners (Dining Locally in New England Series)

Diner Delights: A Journey Through the Best Diners in New England

Welcome to the first installment of our Diner Stories series at New England Living Magazine! Today, we embark on a mouthwatering adventure to explore the quintessential diners that grace each of the New England states. From the iconic Maine Diner to the charming Becky’s Diner in Portland, ME, we’ve compiled a must-visit list that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So grab your appetite and let’s dig in!

Maine Diner (Wells, Maine)
Address: 2265 Post Road, Wells, ME 04090
Our journey begins at the heart of Maine’s culinary delights, the legendary Maine Diner. Established in 1983, this diner has been a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. Their Lobster Pie, a delectable combination of fresh lobster, creamy sauce, and buttery cracker crumbs, is an absolute must-try. And don’t forget to indulge in their famous Wild Maine Blueberry Pie, Blueberry Pancakes, or warm Indian Pudding with Vanilla Ice Cream to start your day on a sweet note.

Becky’s Diner (Portland, Maine)
Address: 390 Commercial Street, Portland, ME 04101
Next up, we head to the charming coastal city of Portland to savor the flavors at Becky’s Diner. Located right on the waterfront, this classic diner offers picturesque views along with a hearty menu. Dive into their “Tugboat Breakfast,” featuring eggs, bacon, sausage, and fluffy pancakes – the perfect way to kickstart your day before exploring the vibrant city.

The Old Post Office (Mount Joy, Rhode Island)
Address: 849 Victory Highway, West Greenwich, RI 02817
Now, it’s time to venture into Rhode Island and visit The Old Post Office. This charming diner, housed in an actual former post office, exudes a unique nostalgic charm. Known for its mouthwatering Clam Cakes and Chowder, this gem will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time with each delicious bite.

Miss Worcester Diner (Worcester, Massachusetts)
Address: 300 Southbridge Street, Worcester, MA 01608
No diner series would be complete without a visit to the historic Miss Worcester Diner. This vintage Worcester Lunch Car Company diner is an icon of the city, serving up classic American comfort food since 1948. Be sure to try their famous Corned Beef Hash and finish off with a slice of homemade pie to round out your dining experience.

Red Arrow Diner (Manchester, New Hampshire)
Address: 61 Lowell Street, Manchester, NH 03101
As we move into the picturesque state of New Hampshire, the Red Arrow Diner welcomes us with open arms and a menu full of delectable delights. A must-try here is the “Paul’s Reuben,” a delightful sandwich with tender corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing, all served on marble rye bread. It’s a Reuben to remember!

Miss Lyndonville Diner (Lyndonville, Vermont)
Address: 686 Broad Street, Lyndonville, VT 05851
Our final stop takes us to the Northeast Kingdom and the quaint town of Lyndonville, Vermont, where we find the Miss Lyndonville Diner. This charming vintage diner is known for its hospitality and delicious comfort food. Indulge in their Vermont Maple Pancakes or their mouthwatering Poutine to experience the best of local flavors.

Our Guide to New England Diners will continue! Each state boasts its own unique culinary treasures, and we are on a mission to discover them and contribute to America’s small business owners, chefs, restaurant managers, and operators. We hope you’ll join us on the next installment of New England Diner Stories, where we’ll explore even more hidden gems and mouthwatering delights. If you own or manage a great New England Diner or restaurant, contact us. Until then, happy eating and bon appétit!

NEW ENGLAND LIVING MAGAZINE thanks you for supporting our local restaurants. Please tip graciously.

Jonathan's OGT, 92 Bourne Lane, Ogunquit, Maine 03907 | 207-646-4777
Serving upscale New England cuisine, Jonathan's Ogunquit, caters to those diners looking for fresh seafood, classic European dishes, grilled steaks and more. Diners prefer Jonathan's for a romantic date night, to celebrate a special birthday or enjoy an evening of farm to table gastronomy before a show. Jonathan's offers dining, events, and concerts. Featuring local food products wherever possible and focuses on serving fresh, New England products. Jonathan's slogan has always been to #eatwell.
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The Blue Bistro at Beachmere Inn, 62 Beachmere Place, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 207-646-2021
Blue Bistro offers a relaxed setting for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Enjoy an ocean view with your fresh Maine Lobster Benedict in the morning. After a day at the beach, join us for a delicious Filet Mignon dinner. Please telephone for the latest information about our daily specials from our in house chefs. We're an easy walk from Downtown Ogunquit and welcome advance reservations to enjoy our delectable offerings and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Blue Bistro is among the Top-Rated Restaurants in Ogunquit.
Visit The Blue Bistro at Beachmere Inn - Ogunquit ME

Maine Diner, 2265 Post Road (US Route 1),Wells, ME 04090 | 207-646-4441
World Famous Food Like Grandma Used To Make. Featured on "The Today Show", Phantom Gourmet, Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" and others. Maine blueberry pancakes, pies, lunch and dinner specials and more. Try Maine Diner's famous Lobster Pie, Seafood Chowder, Codfish Cakes. Breakfast anytime. Remember the Maine Gift Shoppe, Maine Products. Eat-In or Take-Out. View menus online.
Maine Diner - Wells, Maine

When Pigs Fly Pizzeria, 460 U.S. Route 1 Kittery, Maine 03904 | Restaurant: 207-438-7036 Bread Store: 207-439-3114
Enjoy our large selection of wood-fired pizzas, appetizer plates, craft beers and draft wines. The pizzas are Neapolitan style, handcrafted from all natural ingredients. Our wood-fired ovens give the crust a chewy, smoky flavor. All ingredients are the freshest including mozzarella, which is made fresh daily. This location is also home to the When Pigs Fly Company Store, which offers all of the classic and artisan breads, and other products available from When Pigs Fly.
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Roberto's, 200 Shore Road, Ogunquit, Maine 03907 | 207-646-8130
Roberto's is committed to making every dish memorable and that feeds not only the body, but feeds the spirit as well. Delicious hardy portions that are truly crave worthy. An extensive menu of all your favorite Italian dishes cooked authentically to give you that real taste of Italy.
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Fisherman's Catch Restaurant, 134 Harbor Road, Wells, ME 04090 | 207.646.8780
Fisherman's Catch Restaurant has been serving fresh Maine seafood, off the beaten path, for more than 35 years. We truly appreciate the locals making our little rustic spot in Wells Harbor their destination. Off the Beaten Path, Keeping It Rustic Since 1982. Lunch and Dinner - May to Mid October. Dine Out, Dine In. A Maine Summertime Classic.
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Loco Coco's Tacos, 36 Walker Street, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-438-9322
Creative, unique, and freshly made Mexican food housed in a restored building, a relaxed dining experience that offers something different to patrons and ensures you enjoy a memorable food experience every time. Mexican, Southwestern Cuisine, Special Diets, Vegetarian, Vegan / Gluten free options. Lunch, Dinner, Dine-In or Take-out, Catering.
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Ogunquit Beach Lobster House, 1111 Beach Street, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 1-207-360-2286
Enjoy a Maine lobster meal you will will want again and again, with succulent lobster you can taste, not buried in overwhelming seasonings or paired with inappropriate accompaniments. We make it to your taste, even if only seasoned with our healthy Maine salt air! Dine-In, or Take-Out. Seasonally Open 7 days a week from Noon - 8:00pm
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The Old Salt Restaurant & Lamie's Inn, 490 Lafayette Road (Rte. 1), Hampton, NH 03842 | 603-926-8322
Lamie’s Inn offers gracious hospitality in the best tradition of a New England country inn. Located in the heart of downtown Hampton, NH - two miles from Hampton beaches and centrally located for exploring the beautiful NH seacoast. Our friendly staff will make you feel right at home! Continental breakfast is included and our restaurant, The Old Salt, is open for lunch and dinner daily. Reservations Recommended.
Visit Lamie's Inn & Old Salt Restaurant, Hampton, NH

Chesterfield Inn, 20 Cross Road, Chesterfield, NH 03466 | 603-256-3211
The Chesterfield Inn is a warm, welcoming Bed and Breakfast Inn in the Monadnock Region of New Hampshire. We specialize in personal service and comfort. Enjoy our delicious country breakfast, cooked to order, with homemade muffins made from scratch each morning. Our romantic candlelit dining room is the perfect place for dinner with a menu of fresh, local food that changes with the seasons. Most guest rooms have fireplaces, pretty views and six rooms are pet friendly. The inn is the perfect place for an intimate wedding.
Visit Chesterfield Inn - Chesterfield, NH

Sugar Hill Inn, 116 Scenic Route 117, Sugar Hill Road, Sugar Hill, NH 03586 | 603-823-5621
Nestled into the hillside on 16 acres of woodlands, rolling lawns and well-tended gardens, you will find the beauty and tranquility of New Hampshire's White Mountains. The Sugar Hill Inn is a perfect place to relax, rejuvenate and re-discover lifes simple pleasures. A place where romance is virtually guaranteed. 5- star dining.
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Ramunto's Brick Oven Pizza, 76 Main Street, Keene, NH 03431 | 603-357-3555
Welcome to Ramunto’s - a taste of the North End right here in Keene. At Ramunto's we’re passionate about providing an unforgettable dining experience. Ramunto’s combines great service, a warm family-friendly atmosphere, and high quality food made fresh daily. Authentic New York Pizza, fresh salads cut to order, pastas from scratch, and signature subs, Ramunto’s offers something for everyone including catering services. Open Daily for lunch, dinner & Take-Out.
Visit Ramunto's Brick Oven Pizza Website

The Flying Goose Brew Pub & Grille, 40 Andover Road, New London, NH | 603-526-6899
The Flying Goose Brew Pub is a family run restaurant with 17 of our Handcrafted Brews on tap with panoramic views of Mt. Kearsarge in the quaint town of New London. Whether it be for a quick bite, a cold brew, or a place for family and friends to gather, we extend our "home" to you. Voted Best of NH Regional Favorite Restaurant, we offer a relaxing environment to all who walk through our doors. The Flying Goose Brews are also available to take home in Growlers!
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Woodstock Inn Station & Brewery, Rt. 3, No. Main, No. Woodstock, NH 03262 | 603-745-3951
Located in the quaint village of North Woodstock, the Inn's gracious and relaxed setting centers around 40 uniquely styled and cozy rooms and suites, located across 6 buildings on the property. All of our lodging options offer the comforts of home, including cable, free Wi-Fi access, air-conditioning and more. Many offer Whirlpool tubs and gas fireplaces. Includes free use of off-property indoor pool and health club. Voted a White Mountains favorite by NH Magazine, Hidden Gem award and "Worth a Journey" says Phantom Gourmet. Our famous country breakfast is included with your stay.
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Wildcat Inn & Tavern, Rte 16A, Jackson Village NH 03846 | 603-383-4245
Through the Jackson covered bridge is a place that just might be perfect... a place where candle light dances and the love and laughter of a hundred years of happy travelers is as rich as the wide pine floors. We invite you to take a step back in time. Come prepared to laugh, love, and smile so hard you might just cry. After all, as brilliant stars twinkle in the clear night sky... you just might find that the Wildcat is almost perfect. Lunch, Dinner, Entertainment in the Tavern.
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Polly's Pancake Parlor, 672 Route 17, Sugar Hill, NH 03585 | 603-823-5575
Polly's Pancake Parlor has been serving yummy home cooked meals for over 75 years. Enjoy a stack of Oatmeal Buttermilk, Buckwheat or Whole Wheat pancakes. Sit back and savor a waffle of your choice smothered in real New Hampshire maple syrup or come for lunch and have a slice of quiche made with local Harman's cheese. Shop for gifts, pancake mixes and NH Maple Syrup. Reservations taken on weekends.
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Franconia Inn, 1300 Easton Rd., Franconia, NH 03580 | 603-823-5542
"In the Land of Big Mountains and Small Villages." Nestled in the heart of the beautiful White Mountains of New Hampshire, The Franconia Inn is a full service country inn, where casual elegance and exquisite cuisine are just waiting to welcome you. Please visit our website for more information.
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rek'•lis brewing company, 2085 Main Street, Bethlehem, NH 03574 | 603-991-2357
Tiny brewery, big beers! Enjoy Craft IPA's, Great Food, Entertainment, Special Events. Check the website for specials. Thursday night Trivia. The never ending quest to quench the ‘thirst’, whether it’s on a bike, skis, or in a glass. This it where the passion comes from, it’s what rek'•lis is, this is us, and now it’s you... .
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Celli's Pizzeria, 100 Route 302, Twin Mountain, NH 03595 | 603-846-5510
Hot Pizza, Artisan Sandwiches, Panini's, Fresh Salads. Welcome to Celli's Pizzeria! We offer a large selection of deli subs & sandwiches. Fresh breads baked on location, homemade dough hand tossed pizza. Gelato , ice cream, cheese cakes, tiramissu, cannolli, daily specials, great soups, and salads.
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Castle Hill Resort and Spa, Junction of Rt. 103 & 131, P.O. Box 525, Ludlow, VT 05149
Discover a freshly prepared French inspired American menu featuring local ingredients at the historic Castle Hill Mansion. This elegant, intimate restaurant welcomes guests with the opulent glow of the candle lit wood paneled dining room and the subtle chime of the grandfather clock. Enjoy the romantic ambience of this 1905 English Cotswold style Governor’s mansion coupled with flavorful seasonal dining.
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The Norwich Inn, 325 Main Street, Norwich, VT 05055
The Norwich Inn is a historic Vermont inn located just across the river from Hanover, New Hampshire. The Norwich Inn offers an extensive, diverse and moderately priced menu incorporating traditional pub favorites with elegant dinner options. We have nightly dinner and wine specials that can be enjoyed in our pub or dining room 7 nights a week. An Inn has been on the site since 1797; the current Victorian Structure since 1890. We offer 38 guestrooms, Pub, Dining Room, and Microbrewery.
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Michael's on the Hill, 4182 Rt. 100 North, Waterbury-Stowe Road, Waterbury Center, VT | 802-244-7476
Enjoy the "ultimate Vermont dining experience" from within our Circa 1920 farmhouse. Allow us to provide you with locally driven European cuisine and the highest level of quality and service in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has been awarded with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, the Sante Magazine Sustainable Restaurant Award and is a Certified Green Restaurant. Vermont's First- Chef of the Year, Breathtaking Green Mountain Views, Private Event Facilities, Fireplace, AC. #1 Most Romantic Restaurant in Vermont Worth Traveling for - Trip Advisor
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The Whip Restaurant at Green Mountain Inn, 18 Main Street, Stowe, VT 05672 | 802-253-4400 x615
Boasting Stowe's first liquor license, an impressive collection of antique buggy whips & a brass dumbwaiter. Enjoy hand-cut steaks, creative fresh seafood dishes, vegetarian dishes, homemade breads & more in a friendly, casual atmosphere. Sip a VT microbrew, fine wine or drink specialty by the fire. Serving Sun. Brunch, Lunch & Dinner daily. Kid's menu available. Located at the historic Green Mountain Inn, Main St., Stowe.
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The Marina, 28 Spring Tree Road, Brattleboro, VT 05301 | 802-257-7563
Serving lunch and dinner seven days a week with Sunday Brunch Buffet. A beautiful view of the water from almost every seat in the restaurant. Enjoy amazing sunsets from our outdoor, dockside seating area. Located where the Connecticut and West Rivers meet on Route 5. The Marina is a memorable, casual dining experience.
Visit The Marina Brattleboro, VT

Chesterfield Inn, 20 Cross Street, West Chesterfield, NH 03466 | 603-256-3211
The Chesterfield Inn is a warm, welcoming Bed and Breakfast Inn just across the river in the Monadnock Region of New Hampshire. We specialize in personal service and comfort. Enjoy our delicious country breakfast, cooked to order, with homemade muffins made from scratch each morning. Our romantic candlelit dining room is the perfect place for dinner with a menu of fresh, local food that changes with the seasons. Perfect for intimate weddings! Most guest rooms have fireplaces, pretty views and six rooms are pet friendly.
Visit Chesterfield Inn Website

Ramuntos Brick Oven Pizza, 111 Putney Road, Brattleboro, VT 05301 (On the roundabout, Exit 3, off I-91) | 802-579-1226
Welcome to Ramunto’s - a taste of the North End right here in Brattleboro. At Ramunto's we’re passionate about providing an unforgettable dining experience. Ramunto’s combines great service, a warm family-friendly atmosphere, and high quality food made fresh daily. Authentic New York Pizza, fresh salads cut to order, pastas from scratch, and signature subs, Ramunto’s offers something for everyone including catering services. Open Daily for lunch, dinner & Take-Out.
Visit Ramunto's Brattleboro Website

Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge, 1899 Mountain Road, in Stowe, VT | 802-253-4411
Piecasso opened in Stowe on February 8, 2006. Piecasso is a fun place filled with modern style, eclectic music, and great vibes. Come visit, enjoy traditional New York style pizza, authentic Sicilian pastas, fresh seafood, fine wines, fun martinis, and Vermont micro brews.
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Positive Pie, 65-69 Main Street, Plainfield, VT 05667 | 802-454-0133
Positive Pie is committed to making from-scratch, eclectic and delicious plates while always hand-tossing our pizzas. Our benchmark beer, wine & spirit menus are carefully crafted to compliment our food. We practice friendly, honest and knowledgable service and are devoted to providing you snapshots of our heritage – all at a great value. We also reserve the right to throw a party, book a band or clear the dining room to make room for dancing!!!
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Positive Pie, 22 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05602 | 802-229-0453
Positive Pie in Montpelier is the place to go for great food, craft beers and live entertainment. Positive Pie supports the arts and music! Check out the latest line up of Local & National acts by visiting the website. Visit Montpelier, VT to enjoy fresh brews and live music!
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Morgan's Tavern - Middlebury Inn, 14 Courthouse Square, Middlebury, VT 05753
Upscale American cuisine with a fresh Vermont flair is the best way to describe Morgan's Tavern. One of the area's finest lunch and dinner options - an experience in delicious and skillfully prepared fresh cuisine. Enjoy an extensive wine list, including some picked, fermented and bottled right here in Vermont!
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The Wildflower Inn, 2059 Darling Hill Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851 | 802-626-8310
Trailside Lodging in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. Your next great adventure awaits at The Wildflower. A four-season destination property for the best in outdoor recreation and Vermont experiences. With our 25-room Inn, full-service restaurant, pub, Village Sport bike shop (with rentals) and KCE guide company right on the property, you will have everything you need to make the most of your Vermont visit.
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Positive Pie, 87 S. Main Street, Hardwick, VT 05843 | 802-472-7126
Visit Positive Pie in the downtown Hardwick for award-winning pizza, lunch, dinner and dessert specials. Check out the fantastic selection of beer of tap. Find out why Positive Pie has won awards from Seven Days, USA Today, NY Times, and Zagat's.
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Shore Acres Inn & Restaurant, 237 Shore Acres Dr., North Hero, VT 05474 | 802-372-8722
Shore Acres is located in the heart of the Champlain islands. Each room offers guests an incomparable panoramic view of the Green Mountains and the glistening waters of Lake Champlain. A visit here provides you with the recharge and relaxation we all truly need. 19 lakeside inns overlooking Lake Champlain on 46 private acres. A special place for your special event or Lake Champlain VT wedding. Event consultation, and Pet-Friendly accommodations available.
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Derby Line Village Inn, 440 Main Street, Derby Line, VT 05830 | 1-802-873-5071
Situated near the US - Canadian border in Derby Line, Vermont, the Derby Village Inn offers a culinary journey specializing in German/Austrian cuisine enriched with local sources, produce, and warm hospitality. Thursday night is Prime Rib, Sunday Brunch 10am - 2pm. It's a delightful retreat for those seeking a taste of Vermont's culinary delights.
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Sugar & Spice Restaurant and Gift Shop | 2563 US Route 4, Mendon, VT | 802-773-7832
Sugar and Spice Family Restaurant serves in an authentic Vermont Maple Sugar House! Meals are "made to order" using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy Vermont Pancakes with real maple syrup, Stuffed French Toast, Fluffy Omelets or try Pumpkin Pancakes - a house specialty. Breakfast served all day, Lunch begins at 11am. Shop our Gift Shop for Vermont Products, and Maple Syrup. Dine inside or outside.
Visit The Vermont Sugar & Spice Restaurant, Mendon, Vermont

Michael's Trattoria, 344 Center St., Wallingford, CT 06492 | 203-269-5303
Award-winning Italian Specialties - Parmigiana, Zuppa Di Pesce, Pasta, Chicken, Veal, Steak, and Seafood served 7 days a week in a relaxed atmosphere. Begin with fresh baked bread served with Michael's own amazing Virgin Olive Oil Dip and complete your meal with Chef-made Banana Cream Pie or fresh-filled Canoli's. Indoor/outdoor dining. Pizza available in the Bar/Lounge or take out only. Catering and In-House Luncheons for up to 40 people available. Michael's Trattoria has served the Wallingford community for more than 25 years.
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Delaney's Grille, 3 Country Club Road (Route 5) Holyoke, MA 01040 | 413-532-1800
The best steakhouse in Western Massachusetts. Delaney's Grill offers excellent fine dining for steak lovers, including filet mignon, Delmonico rib eye and delicious roast prime rib. They offer a great selection of fish, pork, chicken, gluten free and vegetarian options too. Delaney's Grill also offers beautiful private rooms for groups of 6 to 50. Don't forget about the infamous popovers!
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The Ritz Carlton, 10 Avery Street, Theater District, Boston, MA 02111
A luxurious downtown Boston hotel features 2 on-site restaurants and rooms with large flat-screen TVs. A state-of-the-art fitness center is connected to the hotel and Logan International Airport is within 5 miles. Pet Friendly. Boston Common is directly across the street.
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The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St, Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA 02138-5707
Close to Boston, in beautiful Cambridge, located in the heart of bustling Harvard Square, sidewalk cafes, eclectic shops, indie bookstores, and gorgeous Georgian and Colonial buildings.
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