Food

It’s Good to Be Spring

Your Guide to Eating Spring Now

Fifty degrees. Fifty little degrees. That’s all it took this weekend to plant visions of clams and lobsters and the imminent rise of spring in your head. Luckily, a handful of restaurants with a strict focus on warm-weather deliciousness are getting an early start. And we’re sending you their way. Don’t mention it.

HEART AND SULL

The First Hot Dog from Sullivan’s

Closed on: December 1.
Open since: February 22.
Why it’s already spring here: This hot dog stand on a castle-having island is already distributing their signature dog with mustard, relish and onions. Pro tip: all dogs are half off till March 2. The next six days will be crucial.

THE SMITH ELEMENT

The First Cone from the Ice Creamsmith

Closed on: Thanksgiving Day.
Reopens on: March 1.
Why it’s already spring here: You love it when Dorchester strongholds of homemade ice cream wake up from hibernation. Just in time to start dispensing their March-only Baileys flavor, no less. This should pair well with an upcoming day.

CLAM IT ALL

The First Clam Strips from the Clam Box

Closed on: November 3.
Reopens on: March 6.
Why it’s already spring here: It’s a beachside spot generously doling out platters of clam strips and fries. If that doesn’t hit your warm-weather soft spot, you’re probably the Snow Miser. Which we just made a thing.

IN TENTS

The First Crab Legs in a Giant Tent

Closed on: October 15.
Reopens on: March 17.
Why it’s already spring here: The Barking Crab rationed out crustaceans all winter. Unfortunately, you had to eat them someplace other than a tent. Well, good news: that oversize outdoor tent is coming back on St. Patrick’s Day. He’s the patron saint of crab tents.

LOST IN CRUSTACEAN

The First Roll at Roy Moore Lobster Co.

Closed on: Halloween.
Reopens on: March 25.
Why it’s already spring here: At some point, your spring-induced craving for lobster on the deck of a harborside shack may reach a breaking point. When that happens, these guys will be there with open arms and lobster rolls. Mostly lobster rolls.