Cheer up with food in Andover, Massachusetts
### **A Culinary Compass: A Foodie's Deep Dive into Andover's Dynamic Dining Scene**
Nestled along the banks of the Shawsheen River, Andover, Massachusetts, is often celebrated for its historic Phillips Academy, its charming colonial architecture, and its verdant town commons. But for those in the know, Andover harbors a secret: a remarkably diverse and passionate culinary landscape that effortlessly bridges the gap between timeless New England comfort and bold, contemporary innovation. This isn't just a town with restaurants; it’s a community with stories told through simmering sauces, sizzling grills, and expertly poured libations. So, pull up a chair, fellow foodie. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey through ten essential Andover eateries, where every meal is a chapter in the town's delicious narrative.
#### **1. Shawsheen Luncheonette: The Heartbeat of Home**
**3 Lowell St | The Quintessential American Diner**
Step through the door of the Shawsheen Luncheonette, and you step back in time. The air is rich with the perfume of freshly brewed coffee, sizzling bacon, and griddled home fries. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a living archive of Andover's daily life—a place where contractors in work boots, retirees solving the world's problems over mugs of joe, and families with weekend soccer stars all find common ground on red vinyl stools and well-worn booths. The vibe is pure, unadulterated nostalgia, served with a side of genuine warmth.
**What to Order:** This is a temple to the classics, executed with care.
* **The Ultimate Breakfast:** Go for the **Luncheonette Special**—a symphony of two eggs any style, your choice of crispy bacon or savory sausage, home fries that are golden and tender, and toast that’s the perfect vehicle for grape jelly. It’s the bedrock of a perfect day.
* **Lunchtime Legend:** The **Reuben Sandwich** is a thing of beauty. Piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye, it’s a messy, magnificent masterpiece. Pair it with a side of their golden onion rings for the full experience.
* **Sweet Finale:** Never, ever skip the pie. The **homemade apple pie**, often still warm, with a flaky, buttery crust and cinnamon-kissed filling, is a non-negotiable. À la mode is highly recommended.
This is where you come to remember that the best meals are often the simplest, served with a smile that feels like home.
#### **2. Andiamo Restaurant Bar + Cafe: A Rustic Italian Rendezvous**
**159 River Rd | Transportive Tuscan Warmth**
Andiamo, which translates to let's go, is an invitation you should immediately accept. Tucked away on River Road, this spot feels like a secret Italian grotto. The interior is a masterclass in rustic charm: exposed brick, soft lighting, and the warm hum of conversation. The large bar is a convivial hub, but the dining room, with its view of the open kitchen, is where the magic unfolds. The atmosphere is effortlessly romantic yet completely welcoming for a lively family dinner.
**What to Order:** The menu sings of central Italy, focusing on robust flavors and house-made pastas.
* **Must-Start Appetizer:** The **Calamari Fritti** is a benchmark. Lightly fried to a perfect crisp, tender within, and served with a spicy arrabbiata sauce and a cooling lemon aioli for dipping. It’s a textural dream.
* **Pasta Perfection:** You cannot go wrong with the **Pappardelle al Ragu di Cinghiale**. Wide, silky ribbons of fresh pasta cradle a rich, deeply flavorful wild boar ragu that has been simmered for hours. It’s hearty, sophisticated, and utterly compelling.
* **Main Event:** For a showstopper, the **Bistecca alla Fiorentina** (when available) is a carnivore’s dream. A massive, dry-aged T-bone steak, simply seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, grilled over an open flame, and served for two. It’s a primal, shareable feast.
Andiamo is for nights when you want to be transported, when a great bottle of Chianti and soul-satisfying food are the only items on the agenda.
#### **3. Bartlet Street Andover: Modern New England Elegance**
**11 Bartlet St | Sophisticated Town-Center Staple**
Located in the historic Masonic Hall building, Bartlet Street Andover is the epitome of upscale-casual dining in the heart of town. The space is elegant but not stuffy, with high ceilings, dark wood, and an ambiance that works for both power lunches and intimate dinners. The bar crafts serious cocktails, and the service is polished and knowledgeable. This is where Andover goes to celebrate, impress, or simply indulge in a beautifully composed meal.
**What to Order:** The menu is a love letter to New England ingredients, presented with contemporary flair.
* **Signature Starter:** The **Bartlet Street Crab Cake** is legendary for a reason. Almost entirely sweet, succulent lump crab meat with minimal filler, pan-seared to a golden crust, and perched atop a remoulade with a kick. It’s a masterclass in restraint and quality.
* **Land & Sea:** The **Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail** is the classic surf-and-turf, elevated. A perfectly cooked, butter-knife-tender filet paired with a generous, steamed lobster tail, drawn butter, and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s celebratory dining at its finest.
* **Local Gem:** Don’t overlook their **New England Seafood Stew**. Brimming with scallops, shrimp, clams, and haddock in a fragrant saffron-tomato broth, it’s a bowl of coastal comfort that honors the region’s bounty.
Bartlet Street is your go-to for an occasion that demands both impeccable taste and a relaxed, confident atmosphere.
#### **4. Privé Social Lounge: Sultry Nights & Global Bites**
**27 Main St | The Stylish Social Nexus**
Privé lives up to its name—it feels like an exclusive, stylish hideaway. Descend into its sleek, moodily lit interior where deep lounges, a glowing bar, and a vibe that transitions seamlessly from after-work cocktails to a vibrant late-night scene. The music is curated, the cocktail menu is inventive, and the crowd is chic. This is less about a formal dinner and more about grazing on globally inspired small plates while sipping something crafty.
**What to Order:** Think of the menu as a culinary passport designed for sharing.
* **Cocktail Essential:** Start with a **Privé Old Fashioned** or one of their seasonal craft cocktails—they’re balanced, beautiful, and pack a punch.
* **Shareable Stars:** The **Tuna Poke Nachos** are a must. Crispy wonton chips topped with vibrant, fresh ahi tuna poke, avocado, and a spicy mayo—a fantastic crunch of flavor. Equally compelling are the **Korean BBQ Sliders**, featuring tender short rib on soft buns with a tangy, spicy gochujang glaze.
* **For the Table:** The **Charcuterie & Cheese Board** is a work of art, featuring an excellent selection of cured meats, artisan cheeses, house-made pickles, and accoutrements. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a group to gather around.
Privé is where you go to see and be seen, to savor inventive small bites, and to let the expertly crafted cocktails guide your evening into the night.
#### **5. Characters Bar & Grill: The Neighborhood Cheers**
**123 Old River Road | Unpretentious Comfort & Camaraderie**
Characters is the beloved neighborhood haunt everyone wishes was in their backyard. It’s spacious, buzzing with energy from multiple TVs (perfect for game day), and filled with the sound of laughter and clinking glasses. The staff greets regulars by name, and the menu is a tome of crowd-pleasing favorites. There’s no pretension here, just consistently good food, cold beer on tap, and a guaranteed good time.
**What to Order:** This is the kingdom of the classic American pub grub, done right.
* **Appetizer MVP:** The **Buffalo Chicken Dip** is legendary. Creamy, cheesy, packed with shredded chicken, and with just the right amount of Frank’s RedHot tang, served with sturdy tortilla chips for scooping. It’s addictive.
* **Burger Bliss:** The **Characters Burger** is a half-pound of juicy, certified Angus beef, cooked to order, and topped with all the classics. Add bacon and blue cheese for a transcendent experience. The hand-cut fries on the side are crispy and salty perfection.
* **Hearty Classic:** The **Shepherd’s Pie** is the ultimate comfort food. A savory, rich filling of ground beef and vegetables, topped with a cloud of fluffy, golden-brown mashed potatoes. It’s a hug in a bowl.
Characters is where you go for wings, beer, burgers, and to feel like part of the local fabric. It’s reliably delicious and endlessly welcoming.
#### **6. Grassfields Food & Spirits: The Steakhouse Standard**
**207 N Main St | Refined Classics in a Clubby Setting**
Grassfields is Andover’s answer to the classic American steakhouse. Walking in feels like entering a well-appointed club: dark wood, leather booths, subdued lighting, and a sense of timeless tradition. It’s a place for closing deals, anniversaries, and for anyone who believes a perfect steak is a form of art. The service is formal yet friendly, and the wine list is substantial.
**What to Order:** This is a temple to prime beef and fresh seafood.
* **Prelude to Perfection:** The **Baked Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp**, stuffed with crabmeat stuffing and baked in a lemon butter sauce, is a rich and decadent way to begin.
* **The Star of the Show:** The **22oz Bone-In Ribeye** is a carnivore’s masterpiece. Dry-aged, beautifully marbled, charred on the outside, and gloriously red and juicy within. The au poivre sauce is a peppery, creamy complement that elevates it further.
* **Surf Option:** If steak isn’t your call, the **Pan-Seared Sea Scallops**, served over a risotto or seasonal puree, are always plump, sweet, and seared to a caramelized crust.
Grassfields is for when only the classics will do, when the occasion calls for a serious steak, a stiff martini, and an atmosphere of quiet confidence.
#### **7. Karma Andover: A Vibrant Subcontinental Journey**
**209 N Main St | Modern Indian Cuisine with Panache**
Right next door to Grassfields lies a world of vibrant color and spice: Karma Andover. This is not your typical curry house. The decor is modern and bright, the presentation is elegant, and the flavors are complex and nuanced. It’s a celebration of Indian culinary diversity, from the tandoor ovens to the simmering curries, all designed to be shared and explored.
**What to Order:** Be adventurous and share a spectrum of flavors.
* **Tandoori Triumph:** Start with the **Tandoori Mixed Grill**. Skewers of marinated chicken tikka, seekh kebab, and shrimp, all cooked in the blistering clay oven, arriving smoky, tender, and fragrant.
* **Curry Cornerstone:** The **Butter Chicken** here is sublime—unbelievably tender chicken in a luxuriously smooth, creamy tomato gravy that’s both rich and subtly spiced. It’s a benchmark dish. For something more robust, the **Lamb Rogan Josh**, with tender pieces of lamb in a deep, aromatic gravy, is unforgettable.
* **Essential Accompaniment:** You must order the **Garlic Naan**. It’s blistered, buttery, flecked with garlic and cilantro, and is the perfect tool for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
Karma is for when your palate craves excitement, warmth, and the joyful, communal experience of sharing incredibly flavorful food.
#### **8. Smythe & Dove: Artisanal Gastropub Fare**
**89 Main St | Craft-Conscious & Community-Focused**
Smythe & Dove has carved out a niche as Andover’s premier gastropub. Housed in a beautifully renovated space with a stunning, central bar, it’s airy, industrial-chic, and always buzzing. The focus here is squarely on quality: craft beers from local and national breweries, creative cocktails, and a menu that elevates pub staples with chef-driven techniques and premium ingredients.
**What to Order:** Expect familiar concepts executed with extraordinary care.
* **Snack Perfection:** The **Truffle Parmesan Fries** are a phenomenon. Hand-cut fries, crispy and golden, tossed with truffle oil and real Parmigiano-Reggiano. They are impossible to stop eating.
* **Elevated Pub Grub:** The **S&D Burger** is a thing of beauty. A blend of prime beef, topped with aged cheddar, applewood-smoked bacon, onion jam, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. Each component is thoughtfully chosen. The **Braised Short Rib Grilled Cheese** is another showstopper—decadent, melty, and deeply satisfying.
* **Liquid Assets:** Take your time with the drink menu. Their rotating tap list is exceptional, and cocktails like the **Main Street Mule** (with local vodka and ginger beer) are perfectly balanced.
Smythe & Dove is where you go for the best craft beer selection in town and food that surprises and delights, all in a cool, contemporary setting.
#### **9. Dish: Creative American Comfort**
**22 Andover St | Quirky, Cozy, and Consistently Inventive**
Dish is the culinary equivalent of your coolest friend’s kitchen—if that friend was a brilliantly creative chef. It’s small, cozy, and eclectic, with a constantly changing menu written on chalkboards. The vibe is intimate, quirky, and deeply personal. Chef-owner Brian Gannon pours his heart into every plate, sourcing locally and seasonally to create dishes that are both comforting and intriguing.
**What to Order:** Trust the chalkboard and the season.
* **The Evergreen Favorite:** If it’s on the menu, the **Mac & Cheese** is a revelation. Never the same twice, it might feature lobster, truffle, pancetta, or seasonal vegetables, but it’s always the ultimate in creamy, cheesy indulgence.
* **Seasonal Star:** The **Pan-Seared Duck Breast** is often a highlight when available. Served with a fruit reduction (like cherry or orange) and a savory grain or potato, it’s a perfect balance of rich, crispy skin and tender meat.
* **Sweet Note:** Save room for dessert, which is always homemade. A **seasonal fruit crisp** or a decadent chocolate pot de crème are likely endings.
Dish is for the adventurous foodie who values creativity, personality, and the thrill of discovering what the chef is inspired by today. It’s a truly unique gem.
#### **10. CRACKD Kitchen & Coffee: The All-Day Fuel Station**
**319 Lowell St | Hip, High-Energy Cafe Culture**
CRACKD is Andover’s caffeine-fueled engine room. Bright, modern, and buzzing with energy from open to close, it’s where students study, freelancers tap on laptops, and friends meet for the best cup of coffee in town. The menu is all-day, leaning into creative breakfast/brunch items, hearty salads, and sandwiches, all with a healthy, vibrant twist.
**What to Order:** Perfect for any hour, but brunch is king.
* **Breakfast Game-Changer:** The **Avocado Smash** is iconic. Perfectly ripe avocado on thick, toasted artisan bread, topped with pickled red onion, microgreens, and a choice of add-ons like perfectly poached eggs or crispy bacon. It’s fresh, satisfying, and Instagram-worthy.
* **Lunchtime Winner:** The **CRACKD Chicken Sandwich** is a crowd-pleaser. A crispy buttermilk chicken cutlet, tangy slaw, pickles, and spicy mayo on a brioche bun. It’s crunchy, juicy, and full of flavor.
* **The Essential:** You cannot leave without a coffee. Their **oat milk latte** is silky and perfect, and their cold brew is smooth and strong. Pair it with one of their massive, homemade muffins.
CRACKD is your modern-day general store: the place for your morning rocket fuel, a quick and delicious lunch, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up in a bright, lively atmosphere.
---
From the timeless griddle of the Shawsheen Luncheonette to the innovative chalkboard at Dish, Andover’s dining scene is a beautiful tapestry of tradition and innovation. It’s a town that respects its roots while eagerly embracing the new. Each of these ten spots offers a distinct voice, a unique atmosphere, and a memorable plate. So explore, savor, and become part of the story. In Andover, every meal is an opportunity for discovery. Buon appetito
Nestled along the banks of the Shawsheen River, Andover, Massachusetts, is often celebrated for its historic Phillips Academy, its charming colonial architecture, and its verdant town commons. But for those in the know, Andover harbors a secret: a remarkably diverse and passionate culinary landscape that effortlessly bridges the gap between timeless New England comfort and bold, contemporary innovation. This isn't just a town with restaurants; it’s a community with stories told through simmering sauces, sizzling grills, and expertly poured libations. So, pull up a chair, fellow foodie. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey through ten essential Andover eateries, where every meal is a chapter in the town's delicious narrative.
#### **1. Shawsheen Luncheonette: The Heartbeat of Home**
**3 Lowell St | The Quintessential American Diner**
Step through the door of the Shawsheen Luncheonette, and you step back in time. The air is rich with the perfume of freshly brewed coffee, sizzling bacon, and griddled home fries. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a living archive of Andover's daily life—a place where contractors in work boots, retirees solving the world's problems over mugs of joe, and families with weekend soccer stars all find common ground on red vinyl stools and well-worn booths. The vibe is pure, unadulterated nostalgia, served with a side of genuine warmth.
**What to Order:** This is a temple to the classics, executed with care.
* **The Ultimate Breakfast:** Go for the **Luncheonette Special**—a symphony of two eggs any style, your choice of crispy bacon or savory sausage, home fries that are golden and tender, and toast that’s the perfect vehicle for grape jelly. It’s the bedrock of a perfect day.
* **Lunchtime Legend:** The **Reuben Sandwich** is a thing of beauty. Piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye, it’s a messy, magnificent masterpiece. Pair it with a side of their golden onion rings for the full experience.
* **Sweet Finale:** Never, ever skip the pie. The **homemade apple pie**, often still warm, with a flaky, buttery crust and cinnamon-kissed filling, is a non-negotiable. À la mode is highly recommended.
This is where you come to remember that the best meals are often the simplest, served with a smile that feels like home.
#### **2. Andiamo Restaurant Bar + Cafe: A Rustic Italian Rendezvous**
**159 River Rd | Transportive Tuscan Warmth**
Andiamo, which translates to let's go, is an invitation you should immediately accept. Tucked away on River Road, this spot feels like a secret Italian grotto. The interior is a masterclass in rustic charm: exposed brick, soft lighting, and the warm hum of conversation. The large bar is a convivial hub, but the dining room, with its view of the open kitchen, is where the magic unfolds. The atmosphere is effortlessly romantic yet completely welcoming for a lively family dinner.
**What to Order:** The menu sings of central Italy, focusing on robust flavors and house-made pastas.
* **Must-Start Appetizer:** The **Calamari Fritti** is a benchmark. Lightly fried to a perfect crisp, tender within, and served with a spicy arrabbiata sauce and a cooling lemon aioli for dipping. It’s a textural dream.
* **Pasta Perfection:** You cannot go wrong with the **Pappardelle al Ragu di Cinghiale**. Wide, silky ribbons of fresh pasta cradle a rich, deeply flavorful wild boar ragu that has been simmered for hours. It’s hearty, sophisticated, and utterly compelling.
* **Main Event:** For a showstopper, the **Bistecca alla Fiorentina** (when available) is a carnivore’s dream. A massive, dry-aged T-bone steak, simply seasoned with rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, grilled over an open flame, and served for two. It’s a primal, shareable feast.
Andiamo is for nights when you want to be transported, when a great bottle of Chianti and soul-satisfying food are the only items on the agenda.
#### **3. Bartlet Street Andover: Modern New England Elegance**
**11 Bartlet St | Sophisticated Town-Center Staple**
Located in the historic Masonic Hall building, Bartlet Street Andover is the epitome of upscale-casual dining in the heart of town. The space is elegant but not stuffy, with high ceilings, dark wood, and an ambiance that works for both power lunches and intimate dinners. The bar crafts serious cocktails, and the service is polished and knowledgeable. This is where Andover goes to celebrate, impress, or simply indulge in a beautifully composed meal.
**What to Order:** The menu is a love letter to New England ingredients, presented with contemporary flair.
* **Signature Starter:** The **Bartlet Street Crab Cake** is legendary for a reason. Almost entirely sweet, succulent lump crab meat with minimal filler, pan-seared to a golden crust, and perched atop a remoulade with a kick. It’s a masterclass in restraint and quality.
* **Land & Sea:** The **Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail** is the classic surf-and-turf, elevated. A perfectly cooked, butter-knife-tender filet paired with a generous, steamed lobster tail, drawn butter, and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s celebratory dining at its finest.
* **Local Gem:** Don’t overlook their **New England Seafood Stew**. Brimming with scallops, shrimp, clams, and haddock in a fragrant saffron-tomato broth, it’s a bowl of coastal comfort that honors the region’s bounty.
Bartlet Street is your go-to for an occasion that demands both impeccable taste and a relaxed, confident atmosphere.
#### **4. Privé Social Lounge: Sultry Nights & Global Bites**
**27 Main St | The Stylish Social Nexus**
Privé lives up to its name—it feels like an exclusive, stylish hideaway. Descend into its sleek, moodily lit interior where deep lounges, a glowing bar, and a vibe that transitions seamlessly from after-work cocktails to a vibrant late-night scene. The music is curated, the cocktail menu is inventive, and the crowd is chic. This is less about a formal dinner and more about grazing on globally inspired small plates while sipping something crafty.
**What to Order:** Think of the menu as a culinary passport designed for sharing.
* **Cocktail Essential:** Start with a **Privé Old Fashioned** or one of their seasonal craft cocktails—they’re balanced, beautiful, and pack a punch.
* **Shareable Stars:** The **Tuna Poke Nachos** are a must. Crispy wonton chips topped with vibrant, fresh ahi tuna poke, avocado, and a spicy mayo—a fantastic crunch of flavor. Equally compelling are the **Korean BBQ Sliders**, featuring tender short rib on soft buns with a tangy, spicy gochujang glaze.
* **For the Table:** The **Charcuterie & Cheese Board** is a work of art, featuring an excellent selection of cured meats, artisan cheeses, house-made pickles, and accoutrements. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a group to gather around.
Privé is where you go to see and be seen, to savor inventive small bites, and to let the expertly crafted cocktails guide your evening into the night.
#### **5. Characters Bar & Grill: The Neighborhood Cheers**
**123 Old River Road | Unpretentious Comfort & Camaraderie**
Characters is the beloved neighborhood haunt everyone wishes was in their backyard. It’s spacious, buzzing with energy from multiple TVs (perfect for game day), and filled with the sound of laughter and clinking glasses. The staff greets regulars by name, and the menu is a tome of crowd-pleasing favorites. There’s no pretension here, just consistently good food, cold beer on tap, and a guaranteed good time.
**What to Order:** This is the kingdom of the classic American pub grub, done right.
* **Appetizer MVP:** The **Buffalo Chicken Dip** is legendary. Creamy, cheesy, packed with shredded chicken, and with just the right amount of Frank’s RedHot tang, served with sturdy tortilla chips for scooping. It’s addictive.
* **Burger Bliss:** The **Characters Burger** is a half-pound of juicy, certified Angus beef, cooked to order, and topped with all the classics. Add bacon and blue cheese for a transcendent experience. The hand-cut fries on the side are crispy and salty perfection.
* **Hearty Classic:** The **Shepherd’s Pie** is the ultimate comfort food. A savory, rich filling of ground beef and vegetables, topped with a cloud of fluffy, golden-brown mashed potatoes. It’s a hug in a bowl.
Characters is where you go for wings, beer, burgers, and to feel like part of the local fabric. It’s reliably delicious and endlessly welcoming.
#### **6. Grassfields Food & Spirits: The Steakhouse Standard**
**207 N Main St | Refined Classics in a Clubby Setting**
Grassfields is Andover’s answer to the classic American steakhouse. Walking in feels like entering a well-appointed club: dark wood, leather booths, subdued lighting, and a sense of timeless tradition. It’s a place for closing deals, anniversaries, and for anyone who believes a perfect steak is a form of art. The service is formal yet friendly, and the wine list is substantial.
**What to Order:** This is a temple to prime beef and fresh seafood.
* **Prelude to Perfection:** The **Baked Stuffed Jumbo Shrimp**, stuffed with crabmeat stuffing and baked in a lemon butter sauce, is a rich and decadent way to begin.
* **The Star of the Show:** The **22oz Bone-In Ribeye** is a carnivore’s masterpiece. Dry-aged, beautifully marbled, charred on the outside, and gloriously red and juicy within. The au poivre sauce is a peppery, creamy complement that elevates it further.
* **Surf Option:** If steak isn’t your call, the **Pan-Seared Sea Scallops**, served over a risotto or seasonal puree, are always plump, sweet, and seared to a caramelized crust.
Grassfields is for when only the classics will do, when the occasion calls for a serious steak, a stiff martini, and an atmosphere of quiet confidence.
#### **7. Karma Andover: A Vibrant Subcontinental Journey**
**209 N Main St | Modern Indian Cuisine with Panache**
Right next door to Grassfields lies a world of vibrant color and spice: Karma Andover. This is not your typical curry house. The decor is modern and bright, the presentation is elegant, and the flavors are complex and nuanced. It’s a celebration of Indian culinary diversity, from the tandoor ovens to the simmering curries, all designed to be shared and explored.
**What to Order:** Be adventurous and share a spectrum of flavors.
* **Tandoori Triumph:** Start with the **Tandoori Mixed Grill**. Skewers of marinated chicken tikka, seekh kebab, and shrimp, all cooked in the blistering clay oven, arriving smoky, tender, and fragrant.
* **Curry Cornerstone:** The **Butter Chicken** here is sublime—unbelievably tender chicken in a luxuriously smooth, creamy tomato gravy that’s both rich and subtly spiced. It’s a benchmark dish. For something more robust, the **Lamb Rogan Josh**, with tender pieces of lamb in a deep, aromatic gravy, is unforgettable.
* **Essential Accompaniment:** You must order the **Garlic Naan**. It’s blistered, buttery, flecked with garlic and cilantro, and is the perfect tool for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
Karma is for when your palate craves excitement, warmth, and the joyful, communal experience of sharing incredibly flavorful food.
#### **8. Smythe & Dove: Artisanal Gastropub Fare**
**89 Main St | Craft-Conscious & Community-Focused**
Smythe & Dove has carved out a niche as Andover’s premier gastropub. Housed in a beautifully renovated space with a stunning, central bar, it’s airy, industrial-chic, and always buzzing. The focus here is squarely on quality: craft beers from local and national breweries, creative cocktails, and a menu that elevates pub staples with chef-driven techniques and premium ingredients.
**What to Order:** Expect familiar concepts executed with extraordinary care.
* **Snack Perfection:** The **Truffle Parmesan Fries** are a phenomenon. Hand-cut fries, crispy and golden, tossed with truffle oil and real Parmigiano-Reggiano. They are impossible to stop eating.
* **Elevated Pub Grub:** The **S&D Burger** is a thing of beauty. A blend of prime beef, topped with aged cheddar, applewood-smoked bacon, onion jam, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. Each component is thoughtfully chosen. The **Braised Short Rib Grilled Cheese** is another showstopper—decadent, melty, and deeply satisfying.
* **Liquid Assets:** Take your time with the drink menu. Their rotating tap list is exceptional, and cocktails like the **Main Street Mule** (with local vodka and ginger beer) are perfectly balanced.
Smythe & Dove is where you go for the best craft beer selection in town and food that surprises and delights, all in a cool, contemporary setting.
#### **9. Dish: Creative American Comfort**
**22 Andover St | Quirky, Cozy, and Consistently Inventive**
Dish is the culinary equivalent of your coolest friend’s kitchen—if that friend was a brilliantly creative chef. It’s small, cozy, and eclectic, with a constantly changing menu written on chalkboards. The vibe is intimate, quirky, and deeply personal. Chef-owner Brian Gannon pours his heart into every plate, sourcing locally and seasonally to create dishes that are both comforting and intriguing.
**What to Order:** Trust the chalkboard and the season.
* **The Evergreen Favorite:** If it’s on the menu, the **Mac & Cheese** is a revelation. Never the same twice, it might feature lobster, truffle, pancetta, or seasonal vegetables, but it’s always the ultimate in creamy, cheesy indulgence.
* **Seasonal Star:** The **Pan-Seared Duck Breast** is often a highlight when available. Served with a fruit reduction (like cherry or orange) and a savory grain or potato, it’s a perfect balance of rich, crispy skin and tender meat.
* **Sweet Note:** Save room for dessert, which is always homemade. A **seasonal fruit crisp** or a decadent chocolate pot de crème are likely endings.
Dish is for the adventurous foodie who values creativity, personality, and the thrill of discovering what the chef is inspired by today. It’s a truly unique gem.
#### **10. CRACKD Kitchen & Coffee: The All-Day Fuel Station**
**319 Lowell St | Hip, High-Energy Cafe Culture**
CRACKD is Andover’s caffeine-fueled engine room. Bright, modern, and buzzing with energy from open to close, it’s where students study, freelancers tap on laptops, and friends meet for the best cup of coffee in town. The menu is all-day, leaning into creative breakfast/brunch items, hearty salads, and sandwiches, all with a healthy, vibrant twist.
**What to Order:** Perfect for any hour, but brunch is king.
* **Breakfast Game-Changer:** The **Avocado Smash** is iconic. Perfectly ripe avocado on thick, toasted artisan bread, topped with pickled red onion, microgreens, and a choice of add-ons like perfectly poached eggs or crispy bacon. It’s fresh, satisfying, and Instagram-worthy.
* **Lunchtime Winner:** The **CRACKD Chicken Sandwich** is a crowd-pleaser. A crispy buttermilk chicken cutlet, tangy slaw, pickles, and spicy mayo on a brioche bun. It’s crunchy, juicy, and full of flavor.
* **The Essential:** You cannot leave without a coffee. Their **oat milk latte** is silky and perfect, and their cold brew is smooth and strong. Pair it with one of their massive, homemade muffins.
CRACKD is your modern-day general store: the place for your morning rocket fuel, a quick and delicious lunch, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up in a bright, lively atmosphere.
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From the timeless griddle of the Shawsheen Luncheonette to the innovative chalkboard at Dish, Andover’s dining scene is a beautiful tapestry of tradition and innovation. It’s a town that respects its roots while eagerly embracing the new. Each of these ten spots offers a distinct voice, a unique atmosphere, and a memorable plate. So explore, savor, and become part of the story. In Andover, every meal is an opportunity for discovery. Buon appetito
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