Of the approximately 150 million food blogs* on the Internet, only a handful are kept up to date regularly, and even fewer of those are based in New England.
With the general shift in popularity from blogs to Instagram over the past few years, many bloggers have given up the long form for insta-convenience. That’s not a bad deal for us consumers either. With quick scroll through Instagram you can easily find everything from tonight’s dinner inspiration to your next date night spot - no blog required. But if you’re looking for more in-depth local sustenance, here are a few sites that stay up to date with regular content and a fresh perspective. They also offer a broad range of content and represent the spectrum of blog types, from individual publishers to group collaboratives to a corporate franchise. There’s something for every appetite.
If you’re over the food blogs like so many bloggers are now, I’ve also composed a list of some of the best local food Instagram accounts to follow – whether you’re looking to cook in or dine out, there are several local influencers you should follow now.
*Wild estimation, but probably not that far off.
The Food in My Beard
Dan Whalen, recent Guys Grocery Games winner and the author behind this long-standing local food blog The Food in My Beard, posts original recipes, predominantly his own unique twist on comfort-food favorites. That notion has extended to 3 cookbooks, including one all about tots! I’m obsessed with his hot cheese dips, and although it’s technically a sponsored post, the thing about Dan’s content is that it’s always obviously 100% authentically his own. This blog is sure to keep your mouth watering and your grocery list full of inspiration.
You can also follow Dan on Instagram @tfimb.
fresh NEW ENGLAND
fresh NEW ENGLAND is a collective of contributors write about all the best aspects of food throughout the area, from restaurants and trends to recipes and food-related activities. I love their DIY sticks in the recipe for New England caramel apples, and their interview with Chef Jason Bond of Bondir reminds us why his restaurant is consistently one of Boston’s best. This beautiful site is a great resource to start any New England food adventure, from cooking in your own kitchen to planning your next weekend getaway.
You can also follow them on Instagram @myfreshnewengland.
Cooking with Books
From Martha’s Vineyard to Boston and beyond, Marnely’s Cooking with Books blog will inspire you with creative and well-written recipes as well as travel inspiration and “ beauty for foodies.” Her Plum Pistachio Ricotta Crostata has me seriously longing for plum season, and the Cranberry Cardamom Shortbread Cookies are going on my list to bake right now! Plus, all of the artful photos will help you along each recipe journey.
You can also follow her on Instagram @marnely_murray.
The Infatuation Boston
While not a traditional food blog, The Infatuation Boston is an in-depth restaurant guide that is extremely useful to anyone interested in local food info. Infatuation has spread to cities around the world, and finally came to Boston. Their unbiased reviews and best-of lists, such as Boston’s Greatest Hits List, hit all the highlights you need to choose your next dining destination. And since they’re not reliant on one single contributor, the information flows regularly and stays supremely up to date.
You can also follow them on Instagram @infatuation_boston.
The Food Lens
The Food Lens is a relatively new up-and-coming site that is full of beautiful photography and reliable reviews. Their contributors are among some of the most well-known local food writers, and the tone is both professional and accessible. Their monthly Can’t Miss Dish is definitely one the follow!
You can also find them on Instagram @thefoodlens.
Boston Foodies
One of the most popular local food blogs, hosted by Tiffany Lopinsky, Boston Foodies is a good resource for a variety of local food content. From where to find all-you-can-eat sushi to reviews for many Boston restaurants, you’re likely to find what you’re looking for here. Just be aware that the content is heavily sponsored and Lopinsky also does marketing for many area restaurants.
You can also find them on Instagram @bostonfoodies.
Local Foodies on Instagram
As if Instagram didn’t already make you hungry every time you scroll through (or is that just my feed?), here’s a sampling of strong Boston-centric “Instafood” accounts to follow. They share real food from all over the region, including their home kitchens, with genuine authenticity. Prepare to get very hungry!
- @ravenousboston
- @Runandgunfoodie
- @thefattestfriends
- @chickswithfoodpics
- @bostonfoodgram
- @curveslikeadonut
- @christielmorrison
- @thebitesite
- @newenglandfoodexplorer
- @bostonbrunchguide
And for where to find the best cocktails and libations in the area, follow
@nailthecocktail.
