The 14 Best Rehearsal Dinner Venues in Boston
Boston is one of America's most historically rich cities: beginning as one of the first Puritan settlements, becoming the birthplace of the American Revolution, and now maintaining a legacy of esteemed educational institutions. All of this history and rich culture means there are plenty of interesting and unique venues to host a rehearsal dinner.
From the Back Bay to Boston Harbor, we've rounded up some of the best Boston restaurants, cocktail bars and other venues to host a wedding rehearsal dinner. Between historic mansions and trendy oyster bars, these Boston rehearsal dinner venues are all unique in their own ways, but they have some things in common: fresh seafood and great vibes.
The good news is, if you're having a hard time choosing between these spots, many of them would also work as a bridal shower, birthday party or wedding venue. Looking for something different? Check out The Knot Marketplace for a full list of rehearsal dinner venues in Boston and the surrounding areas.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, Massachusetts
Host an unforgettable affair at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, a stunning estate-turned-museum that combines art, lush landscaping and an essential piece of Bostonian history—the world's largest art heist. Options include cocktail parties with passed hors d'oeuvres in the cloisters surrounding the 15th-century Venetian-inspired courtyard, or a formal seated dinner in the modern aesthetic of Cafe G, which holds up to 90 guests.
Rochambeau in Boston, Massachusetts
Located in Boston's Back Bay neighborhood, Rochambeau is a French-inspired restaurant that boasts a sophisticated and authentic dining experience. Its decor is a chic, trendy mix of luxe French design with subtle Art Deco influences. As far as food is concerned, expect Parisien street food: quintessential French fares like steak frites and cote de boeuf to classic desserts like crème brûlée and parfaits. Choose from three private and one semi-private event spaces (max. capacity is 70), or opt for a spot in their cafe and bar area.
Hampshire House in Boston, Massachusetts
Enjoy a piece of colonial New England luxury with this elegant, historic Bostonian mansion. From the wood-paneled, bookshelf-lined walls to the crackling fireplaces located on each floor, Hampshire House exudes unparalleled warmth and intimacy. Located on the distinguished Beacon Hill and overlooking the picturesque Boston Public Library, Hampshire House features three floors with various spaces, the largest of which can seat up to 100 guests.
Mamma Maria in Boston, Massachusetts
Mamma Maria is an excellent choice if you're looking for quality Italian food in a historic part of the city that offers sweeping views of the Boston skyline. This AAA award-winning restaurant offers a seasonal menu of Italian food highlighting local seafood and New England produce—northern Italian and mountain cuisine in the winter and Southern Italian-influenced dishes in the summer—plus an unparalleled wine menu to match. Choose from one of five private dining rooms that range from capacities of 2 to 75, including the glass-enclosed Terrace Room.
Chart House Boston in Boston, Massachusetts
Located in the red-brick Gardiner Building, which was built in 1763 and once served as John Hancock's office, Chart House Boston offers quality food in a historic setting. As the oldest building on Long Wharf, this red-brick building sits on the docks, which means in addition to some great oceanfront views, it also has access to some of the freshest seafood and great steaks.
Summer Shack Cambridge in Cambridge, Massachuestts
Consider Summer Shack Cambridge for a more fun and casual vibe, without sacrificing on quality. This award-winning seafood restaurant offers fresh mini lobster rolls, oysters and clams at two locations in Boston and Cambridge. The restaurant accommodates groups of 10 to 400 in private and semi-private settings.
More Than Words in Boston, Massachusetts
Whether you and your spouse-to-be are major book lovers looking to tap into Boston's collegiate atmosphere, or just like the vibe, this spot offers something unique. More Than Words is a warehouse-turned-bookstore with eclectic, industrial design accentuated by rustic lighting, whitewashed exposed brick and large windows overlooking the city. This spacious venue can accommodate parties of up to 250, but you will have to arrange outside catering. Plus, proceeds from this woman-owned business fund a program that empowers youth to learn about business.
Avenue in Medford, Massachusetts
Situated in a quaint, fully restored blue barn, Avenue offers rustic New England charm with big city vibes. With its open concept wood burning oven and grill, Avenue strives to deliver a seasonal menu of native seafood, signature wood roasted chicken, grilled steaks and burgers, classic wood-fired flatbreads, delicious salads and simple pastas that evoke California's farm-to-table culture. Located just 15 minutes northwest of Boston, Avenue is available to rent for parties up to 100.
Sea Level Oyster Bar in Salem, Massachusetts
Perched along Salem's Central Wharf, Sea Level Oyster Bar offers waterfront views in a bright and airy space decorated with a nautical theme. Their menu includes locally-caught fish, including a raw bar, fresh tacos and house-made pizzas. Sea Level Oyster Bar accommodates parties of up to 100.
Charles Riverboat Company
Take full advantage of Boston's waterfront setting by chartering a private boat for your rehearsal dinner. Charles Riverboat Company offers a fleet of five charter boats that make for unique and rehearsal dinner settings. Guests can enjoy views of the Boston Harbor and skyline from countless unique vantage points. Each vessel has its own full-service premium bar and a variety of food packages available. Capacities range from up to six seated passengers on the Carousel to 35 to 120 seated passengers on the Lexington.
Bostonia Public House in Boston, Massachusetts
Located on the cusp of the Financial District in the landmark Board of Trade Building, Bostonia Public House offers contemporary decor and quality New England bites (think: lobster sliders, crab cakes and pretty charcuterie boards). Bostonia Public House provides three room options for private dining whose seated capacities range from 30 to 80: either the 1800 Room, the Board of Trade Room or a combination of both.
Central Wharf Co. in Boston, Massachusetts
Located on Milk Street in the Financial District, Central Wharf Co. blends industrial interior design complete with exposed brick and nautical decor. Their creative menu offers refreshing options with a focus on using local foods and homemade ingredients, as well as a top-notch craft beer and cocktail program. Choose from five private rooms and three bars located on two floors with a maximum capacity of 150.
Committee in Boston, Massachusetts
A dynamic space located along Boston's waterfront with gorgeous seaside views, Committee Boston is a Greek ouzeri with an emphasis on shareable plates, or mezze. Food includes Their Chef Lounge, Board Room and Committee of 50 Lounge can seat 10, 18 and 15 seated, respectively, while the outdoor patio can seat 60.
State Street Provisions in Boston, Massachusetts
State Street Provisions is a contemporary restaurant with rustic charm. Located on Long Wharf, guests will enjoy forward-thinking food and space for large and small rehearsal dinner parties. Dining options include three-course plated dinners with options including rich lobster bisque, succulent roasted chicken and fresh-caught Atlantic salmon, plus hors d'oeuvres options. The space includes two expendable rooms lined with leather booths and partitioned by baroque-patterned curtains.