Newton Couple Completes Visits to All 351 Massachusetts Cities, Towns

Six years ago, a Newton couple, Jo Gray and Jenny McBride, endeavored to do something daring. Upon closing their massage therapy and hot tub business, Inman Oasis, the two embarked on an exploration, the Massachusetts 351 project, to visit all 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts.

In every community they explored, Gray and McBride strived to support local restaurants. When asked by The Newton Beacon to offer their recommendations, the two didn't hesitate to share their favorites.

The Old Mill Café in Hatfield was praised as a “huge gem” for its biscuits and Rao's coffee.

Restaurante Algarve in New Bedford earns praise for authentic Portuguese dishes like francesinha and pudim flan, with its seafood stew a favorite.

The newly opened Black Joy Kitchen in Oak Bluffs is celebrated for memorable flavors and its sense of Black history within the community it serves. Its small plates consist of brisket, cornbread, greens, and more.

The Bayside Restaurant in Westport earns praise for a standout lobster roll and other New England seafood dishes. Aside from the lobster roll, the restaurant's menu also includes classic New England seafood dishes like calamari, fish and chips, and chowder.

Sangar General Store in Windsor stands out for its samosas and dal, served in a tiny back-room setting that delivers surprisingly standout food in a remote spot. Recognized as another notable find by Gray and McBride, Sangar General Store is highlighted for its standout cuisine.

As an honorable mention, Crying Thaiger Rustic Thai Kitchen in Malden is recognized for high-quality Thai dishes. The restaurant serves classic Thai dishes from pad see ew and chicken satay to roti with green curry.

Beyond enjoying great dishes, Gray and McBride said their discoveries hit at the heart of communities. 

“Those small towns — those independent businesses — they're going to bring people together,” McBride said in a statement shared with The Newton Beacon.