With fresh, no-frills seafood and a stellar view of the Boston skyline, Belle Isle Seafood in Winthrop has quickly become one of my favorite places to bring friends and family who are in Boston for a visit. Located in the city of Winthrop, this casual joint is just short walk from East Boston’s Orient Heights station on the Blue Line.
Fans of celebrity chef and TV personality Anthony Bourdain will be happy to hear that Belle Isle was featured on his Travel Channel-produced show ‘No Reservations’ back in 2011. Like Mr. Bourdain, this place doesn’t mess around. The floors are a cold concrete, the furniture utilitarian, and the only accepted form of payment is cash. The focus here is on the food, and this is apparent upon the first bite.
Vegetarians and vegans may want to pass on Belle Isle, but the gluten-free crowd may have some success if you’re willing to get creative. Try a dinner plate without the dinner roll and rice pilaf; my favorite is the cajun-blackened swordfish. Other dinner plate options include tuna, scallops, shrimp, and more — and can be prepared fried, baked, grilled, or cajun blackened. Chowder, seafood pie, and sandwiches — including lobster rolls — are also available, so seafood lovers will have plenty of options here. Come enjoy the magnificent view, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood around! You won’t regret it.
