A Guide To Non-Traditional New England Dishes

Cranberry Bog © Jamesvancouver | Dreamstime

The New England region is best known for it’s history and tradition, and this includes a stable selection of go-to cuisines and treats like Maine lobster andVermont maple syrup. But some local restaurateurs are kicking it in gear for the 21st century. See how some eateries, bakeries and farms are taking classic dishes and transforming them into contemporary delicacies.

New England Clam Chowder at B&G Oysters in Boston, Mass.

Try New England clam chowder like it’s never been imagined before at local celebrity chef Barbara Lynch’s South End seafood restaurant. This chowder is churned smooth and sweet, accented by bacon lardons and topped with flaky crackers coated in paprika and cayenne pepper.

Maine Lobster by The Boathouse Bistro in Boothbay Harbor, Maine

The Boathouse Bistro specializes in turning classic New England dishes into mouth-watering tapas. Maine lobster is transformed and transcended into both cold and hot tapas, like the Lobster Cheescake — cornmeal-and-panko-crusted mascarpone with lobster, baked and chilled, and served with blueberry coulis and lemon foam. For a warmer bite, try the lobster corn cakes topped with a smoky tomato jam, or fried lobster wontons.

Cape Cod Cranberries by Onyx Spirits

Cape Cod cranberries can be found fresh, dried, coated in chocolate or covered in yogurt, but they’re best enjoyed as a “Cape Codder” cocktail. Typically a mix of cranberry juice, vodka and lime, Onyx Spirits shakes things up a bit with cranberry moonshine. Check out their recipe for a Cranberry Moon cocktail.

Vermont Maple Syrup Tap © Anikasalsera | Dreamstime

Vermont Maple Syrup by Butternut Mountain Farm

Butternut is one of the largest maple processors and distributors in the country, so naturally, they know what to do with the sweet stuff. Some of their more creative products include specialties like maple butter, maple horseradish mustard and even maple barbecue sauce.

Boston Creme Pie by Sweet Bakery in Boston, Mass.

Thankfully found all around town in Boston, Sweet Bakery creates a Boston Creme Pie cupcake like no other. It’s a sweet, chiffon cake filled with homemade cream, and topped with chocolate ganache and a dollop of frosting for the “cherry on top.”