What can we say, other than: the guy likes his Dunkin’ Donuts. It’s another Super Bowl – which, means another commercial. These are the spots in Boston (besides Dunkin’) where you may spot Ben.
Affleck’s affiliation with Massachusetts runs deep, and his Boston Super Bowl commercial isn’t his only viral tribute to the Boston area. Just last week, the movie star went on The Tonight Show, where he performed alongside The Rip co-star Matt Damon, and Jimmy Fallon labeled the trio “Three Guys From Boston.” The group names every town across Massachusetts, emphasizing thick New England accents and Boston swag while promoting Affleck’s new movie.
Yankees and Mets fans, try not to wince too hard — Affleck did have a Red Sox shirt on during the skit. But we’ll give him a pass, as Massachusetts was home to Affleck for a few go-arounds in childhood and throughout his career. Cambridge, where Affleck grew up, is just across the river from Boston. So naturally, the Good Will Hunting actor has eaten his way around the metropolis over the years.
Bar Enza
Neighborhood: Cambridge
In 2023, when Affleck and Jennifer Lopez were still a “we,” they were spotted dining with their children at Bar Enza. It was reported that the family ordered plenty of Diet Coke, a few pastas, and a steak for Lopez.
Located in a light-filled space through the halls of the Charles Hotel in Cambridge, Bar Enza strikes a happy balance between casual and upscale. Burnt-orange booths soften interiors filled with white marble tabletops, and wine glasses ready for the pour.
100 Layer Pasta
The talent behind the six-year-old trattoria carries the same charm, with a kitchen helmed by Michelin-starred chef Mark Ladner. A blend of local farmers’ market produce and Italian-imported ingredients allows Ladner to create fan favorites like the “Hundred Layer Lasagna,” made of handcrafted egg-yolk pasta, tomato marmellata, and fresh mozzarella crema. Order the bread basket to try the same focaccia the Afflecks were snacking on; it comes with a curried citrus cheese spread and pear butter with star anise.
Toast
Neighborhood: Hull
Toast sits right on the shores of Nantasket Beach. What could be a more convenient spot for an A-lister seeking hometown comfort and privacy? This all-day breakfast eatery isn’t known for glamour; you go for the breakfast and the coffee.
Toast serves breakfast all day and has even won an award or two over the years. Diner-style meals with hearty portions are the standard here, with options like customizable breakfast burritos, hot pastrami Benedict, or overflowing chocolate chip cannoli pancake tacos. The restaurant even posted a video to its Facebook account calling Toast Affleck’s “favorite breakfast spot,” encouraging him to stop by again in the caption.
Strega by Nick Varano
Neighborhood: North End
If celebrity sightings have become a hobby on the road, Strega by Nick Varano is a must during your next Boston work trip. The Italian restaurant’s own blog recently teased an article titled, “Want to See Celebrities in Boston? Come to Strega!” The post lists past sightings to prove to expert celeb hunters that they indeed have a roster: Mariah Carey, check; Anthony Davis, check; Ed Sheeran, check. Affleck always resurfaces in the Boston area, so it isn’t implausible that Strega could be in his future. Celebrity favorites include an off-menu shrimp parmigiana, the lamb chops, and the tenderloin pizza.
Other Articles You’ll Like
Katy Perry And Justin Trudeau
Taylor Swift
Becca Bloom
FAQs
Q: What are Bar Enza’s hours?
A: The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Q: Where is Toast located?
A: 121 Nantasket Ave, Hull, MA 02045.
Q: What is Strega’s dress code?
A: The restaurant requires smart-casual attire; no hats permitted.
