Summer Shack Boston
American · Seafood · Boston, MA
About
First-time visitors immediately notice the casual beach shack vibe: brown paper table covers, a big raw bar, and the smell of fresh seafood. This Back Bay spot draws a mixed gay-straight crowd that feels at home whether they're in for lobster rolls or a full clambake. It's messy, fun, and first-class seafood.
The raw bar is the biggest in the area, perfect for oyster lovers. Hours vary by day, so check before heading over—they close earlier some weeknights. If you're staying at the nearby Sheraton or Hilton, it's an easy walk. The crowd and staff are welcoming; one review noted "gay straight whatever seems to go at this place."
Features
- ✓Biggest raw bar in Boston
- ✓Brown paper table covers for messy fun
- ✓Casual beach shack atmosphere
Cuisine
Practical
What people say
Rated from 1,153 reviews. 7 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
“Casual, but great food”
Eating here feels like being at the beach. It's very relaxed with brown paper on the tables. The seafood is top-notch and can get messy, but it's really enjoyable. We had a nice variety of oysters from the raw bar and then everyone ordered lobster. If you add the clambake option, you get a true New England meal. It's not specifically a gay venue, but it's definitely worth visiting.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“AWESOME SEAFOOD”
An excellent find, located right between the South End and Back Bay near two major hotels. The crowd and staff were wonderfully diverse, and I felt completely comfortable. Gay, straight, everyone seems welcome at this place.
A guest · Over a year ago
More Restaurants in Boston
Veggie Galaxy
4.1
Restaurants · $$ · 1.4 mi
Mistral
4.2
Restaurants · $$$$ · 0.6 mi
Area Four
4
Restaurants · $$ · 1.2 mi
Ruby Room (Closed Temporarily)
Restaurants · $$$ · 1.7 mi