For Bostonians, the arrival of spring isn’t marked by the date on the calendar—it’s marked by the reopening of Sullivan’s Castle Island. Since 1951, this beloved, family-run institution has been serving up classic New England fare, drawing hungry locals and tourists to the scenic shores of Castle Island. I’ve loved Sullivan’s for years and even featured it in my book, Boston Food Crawls, as one of the must-visit stops for an authentic taste of the city.

There’s something magical about a summer day at Castle Island: the salty ocean breeze, the bustling boardwalk, and the unmistakable smell of griddled hot dogs wafting from Sully’s. Whether you go for their legendary hot dog with mustard and relish or indulge in a buttery, overflowing lobster roll, every bite is a taste of nostalgia. Their crinkle-cut fries, thick and perfectly golden, are the ultimate sidekick to any meal, and if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a soft-serve ice cream cone is the perfect way to round out your visit.

Sullivan’s recent recognition with the 2025 James Beard America’s Classics Award only cements what Bostonians have known for decades—this place is the real deal. With over 70 years of history, Sullivan’s has remained true to its mission: serving quality food at reasonable prices in a friendly, family-oriented setting.

While their original location on Castle Island is a seasonal favorite, the addition of their year-round location in Hanover means that a Sully’s fix is never too far away. But there’s nothing quite like grabbing a tray of hot, crispy fries and a fresh lobster roll, then finding a seat along the waterfront to watch the boats glide by.

For me, a trip to Sullivan’s Castle Island is a quintessential Boston experience—one that’s just as much about the food as it is about the tradition. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Sully’s never disappoints. So, as they gear up to open for the season on March 1, I’ll be first in line, ready to welcome another season of perfect summer days in Boston, one hot dog at a time.

And for more fun things to check out in Boston read all about this amazing local artist and his new studio in SOWA.