As we head into the new year, there’s going to be a lot of talk about “resolutions” and “goals.”
That’s a lot of pressure. We’re all just getting done with a crazy year. I think we all still need a bit of a break.
It’s cold, it’s still getting dark before 5 p.m. and there’s a 30% chance of the roads being covered in ice on a given day. I think everyone deserves a nice, cozy little spot to visit to start off 2026 on a good note.
Here are six hidden gems around Massachusetts where you can grab a warm drink, an underrated meal or just the cocktail you need.
1. Burgundian, Attleboro
Burgundian is a European-style cafe that’s cozy, casual and crammed with amazing street foods from around the world.
The headline item is the Liege-style waffle. Yeasted and grilled up with pearl sugar, they’re some of the fluffiest, sweetest waffles you’ll find. They have amazing toppings. But I like them best plain.
Stop by for a coffee in the morning or a beer at night. They open at 7 a.m. on weekdays and are open until 10 p.m. or later most nights.
Check them out: Website | Facebook | Instagram
2. Mare E Monti, Worcester
Feeling the stress? Here’s what you need to do.
Go to Mare E Monti’s quiet neighborhood setting on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. Not only is it less busy, but that’s when they offer their pasta that’s flaméed and cooked in a wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
While you’re there, also grab a glass of wine and some tiramisu to finish off your weeknight dinner getaway.
Check them out: Website | Facebook | Instagram
3. Crepes Tea House, West Springfield
One of the coziest spots in Western Mass. is on the comfy couches by the windows at Crepes Tea House.
Warm up in the morning with a tea sampler and some of their amazing pancakes.
I’m partial to their savory Eastern European pancakes, like the farm cheese “Sirniki.” But you can’t go wrong with their signature customizable crepes.
Check them out: Website | Facebook | Instagram
4. Wild Hare, Hudson
Wild Hare is a culinary playground where inventive dishes and drinks run, well, wild.
Their pastries are fantastic and inventive. But they also crush it with breakfast favorites like their diner-style breakfast and cornbread.
For lunch, they have a wide selection of salads, bowls and sandwiches. Their hot dogs have a cult following. After 11 a.m., keep an eye out for their amazing barrel-aged beer program.
Check them out: Website | Facebook | Instagram
5. Shelly’s Tea Rooms, Plymouth
Sometimes, choices are overrated. Sometimes, you just need someone to take care of you.
That’s what you get at Shelly’s Tea Rooms. Call them up, make a reservation and order The Windsor afternoon tea package. After that, get ready to be treated like royalty with finger sandwiches, pastries and tea.
(Disclaimer: I apologize. You do actually have to choose what type of tea you want. But they’re more than happy to make recommendations.)
Check them out: Website | Facebook | Instagram
6. Glenpharmer Distillery, Franklin
Some of the best spirits to come out of Massachusetts can be found at a scenic old mill building down in Franklin.
That’s when GlenPharmer works its magic, making an amazing variety of concoctions for top-flight cocktails. Their smoking cocktails are a spectacle.
They also have an awesome food menu. You can go fancy with filet mignon or keep it simple with a fried chicken sandwich or a flatbread.
Check them out: Website | Facebook | Instagram
