New Bedford’s 2025 Dining Scene: A Culinary Revolution
New Bedford has become a hotbed for culinary innovation in 2025, with a wave of new and exciting eateries transforming the local dining landscape. From upscale Italian experiences to nostalgic American comfort food, the area is seeing a surge in unique dining options that are capturing the attention of locals and visitors alike.
Candela Cucina: An Upscale Italian Experience
One of the most anticipated openings of the year was Candela Cucina, which debuted in January 2025. Located in the former Carmine’s building at Candleworks, this restaurant is the brainchild of restaurateur Stephen Silverstein, known for his work at The Black Whale and Cisco Kitchen + Bar. Silverstein finally realized his dream of turning this unique space into an upscale Italian dining destination.
Birdies Hot Chicken: Spicy Goodness on Coggeshall Street
Birdies Hot Chicken, a beloved small chain created by Anthony Huynh and Vivian Chow after a culinary journey to Nashville, opened its fourth location at the former Honey Dew Donuts at 250 Coggeshall St. in May 2025. With five years of refining their signature spicy, juicy recipe, this new spot is already making waves among locals and food enthusiasts.
New Beige Pop-Up at Seastreak Ferry Terminal
In May 2025, New Beige celebrated its one-year anniversary with a pop-up event at the Seastreak ferry terminal. This initiative allows visitors arriving by boat to experience the diverse food heritage of New Bedford right when they step onto shore.
SoCo Tavern Restaurant & Bar: A High-Energy Space
In July 2025, Fairhaven welcomed the transformation of the former Ice House on Alden Road into the spacious, high-energy SoCo Tavern Restaurant & Bar. Mario Ribeiro, known for Dartmouth’s Cask & Pig and BOCCA in Fairhaven, reimagined the nearly 7,000-square-foot locale. The space features three rooms, a main bar area that holds about 160 guests, and a semi-outdoor “garage” area that can accommodate another 70 people.
Magic Kitchen: A Fusion of Global Flavors
After decades of dreaming and traveling the world, Hippolyte “Chef Papi” Tavares and his wife Kisa Ramos-Tavares opened Magic Kitchen at 130 Nauset St. in August 2025. Their menu is a vibrant mix of world fusion and Cape Verdean flavors. Tavares aims to be an ambassador of Cape Verdean gastronomy, creating a melting pot of international cuisine through his extensive global experience.
Society Coffee Bar: A New Hub for Coffee Lovers
In September 2025, coffee aficionados found a new favorite in the South End with the opening of Society Coffee Bar. This third location of the celebrated café is housed in the former Dough Company space at 127 W. Rodney French Blvd. Keith and Debra Viveiros have infused the spot with their refined, black-and-white branding and signature hospitality, making it a new hub for caffeine and community.
Bombdog: A Taste of Americana
In September 2025, Adam Katz, the mind behind PLAY Arcade, brought a taste of timeless Americana to New Bedford with Bombdog, a hot dog spot. The menu honors local favorites such as Jimmie’s and the Dog House, alongside playful nods to vintage eats in a fun, family-friendly setting.
Off the BLVD: A New Era for Pub 6T5
Set for the end of the year, the transformation of Pub 6T5 is underway with the team behind New Beige and Cultivator Shoals. Renamed Off the BLVD, it will soon welcome back regulars with chef Joe Rego (a “Cutthroat Kitchen” and “Chopped” alum) promising an elevated take on pub classics.
National Club: A Modern Mexican Destination
Restaurateurs Stephen and Judy Silverstein are breathing new life into the historic National Club by converting it into a “modern Mexican” restaurant set for November 2025. The menu will pay homage to Mexican traditions while exploring contemporary, elevated presentations of beloved classics.
Chipotle Mexican Grill: A New Addition to Kings Highway
The old Newport Creamery site on Kings Highway is slated for development as a new Chipotle Mexican Grill. The plans are in place, with store permits filed, but an official opening date remains to be announced.
With so many exciting new dining options opening in 2025, New Bedford continues to solidify its reputation as a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you’re craving Italian, hot chicken, or a modern Mexican feast, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city.
