Boston Bakery Recognized As The Best Bread In Massachusetts
Is there anything better than fresh baked bread? The Bread Guide recently detailed the best bread in each state, and in Massachusetts, a Boston bakery was named.
What do you look for when seeking out unbeatable bread? There are a few non-negotiables here. Stepping into the bakery, you must be overcome by the aroma coming from the ovens. It’s a gravitating sensory trigger that is not too heavy, but enough to result in a “What is that? I need that!” reaction.
Next, there needs to be an appropriate ratio of crunch to softness. A perfectly crisp crust on the outside with a moist center that is warm to the touch. Then, there are a few of the intangibles. A fresh loaf that travels well, and still tastes deliciously fresh at dinner time, even though you purchased it in the morning. This will keep you returning to the bakery you bought it from. You know you will be getting quality homemade bread you can count on every time you purchase from this local establishment.
The Boston bakery that makes the best bread in Massachusetts, offers a variety of unique flavors as well.
Bricco Panetteria
“The bakery is part of Frank DePasquale’s North End, the culinary empire, but stands on its own with an excellent variety of bread – the crust, the flavors, and the taste speak for itself,” The Bread Guide states.
At Bricco Panetteria you can find ciabatta, banquettes, and miche bread. In addition, there are specialties cooked up here such as sunflower, raisin, and mountain bread. Here, a loaf ranges from $5 – $10. If you find yourself needing to try this bread immediately, the deli area of Bricco Panetteria serves sandwiches on this freshly baked bread.
Honorable Mention
In a similar feature, Tasting Table ranked the best bread served at chain restaurants, and a popular Massachusetts name was featured. Headquartered in Northborough, Bertucci’s made this list, ranking #9. Their warm dinner rolls served in a basket are part of the complete Bertucci’s experience. Furthermore, don’t forget to ask for the dough they give to kids to play with.
These Massachusetts Chains Actually Have Great Bagels
Okay, let me get right to the point. I’m from New Jersey and grew up about twenty miles from Manhattan. So, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect bagel ever since I moved to New England 12 years ago, and have been pleasantly surprised to find a few Massachusetts chain restaurants that actually have great bagels.
I’m also always on the run driving to various events or tournaments across the state. Regardless of what county I am in, a good bagel and coffee breakfast is something I am always looking for. Time is usually of the essence so my preference is typically a quick grab-and-go.
I’ve compiled a short list of bagel chains that really deliver. To clarify, this list excludes any local bakery or privately owned single bagel shop. Many of those remain among my favorite places to grab an everything, extra-toasted, and lightly buttered. In fact, this past weekend I even tripped across one that cooks a “New Jersey Pork Roll” bagel sandwich. The proper term is Taylor Ham, but back to the point.
Bagel-ology
The bagel restaurants selected here don’t have to be specific to Massachusetts only. They do, however have multiple locations throughout the state. So, If I’m en route to an early morning lacrosse tournament in Devens and stop in to grab breakfast at a Newton franchise, I can expect their other location in Milton will have a similar offering, when I’m there for a sunrise hockey game in the winter.
In full transparency, Dunkin’ Donuts is not on this list. With all due respect, it’s called Dunkin “Donuts” for a reason. Throw a sausage, egg, and cheese on one of their bagels and I’m OK, but I’m still not going out of my way specifically for their bagels. However, if this were a coffee chain feature, Dunkin’ would be standing strong towards the top.
Without further ado, let’s hop in the car, roll down Route 3, 24, or take a sharp exit off 93, and pull into a few Massachusetts small chain restaurants that are cooking up some great bagels.
Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.