Fab4 Local Recommendations | Ball Square

Small Square, Big Flavor

Ball Square may sit quietly on the border of Somerville and Medford, but don’t let its small footprint fool you—it’s one of those rare neighborhoods where everything you need fits under one friendly, walkable roof. Locally owned shops and restaurants line the streets, and if you visit more than once, chances are someone will remember your name. You’ll find all the essentials here: a great cup of coffee, dinner spots that hit the mark, groceries, wine, music, and standout takeout options—all with a neighborly vibe.

Housing in Ball Square reflects a mix of charm and variety, featuring condos, apartments, and single-family homes in architectural styles that range from classic triple-deckers to vibrant Victorians. It’s a patchwork of New England character, where tree-lined streets stay quiet even as the square itself hums with energy.

And thanks to the Green Line Extension, getting here couldn’t be easier—Ball Square Station puts you one stop from Union Square, two from Davis, and just a few quick connections from downtown Boston. Here's how to spend a perfect day in Ball Square.

Start Your Day Right: Breakfast in Ball Square

Ball Square knows how to do breakfast right—and if you swing by on a weekend morning, you’ll see just how popular these spots are. Lines often snake down the block, with locals and visitors alike waiting patiently for their turn at one of the neighborhood’s beloved breakfast joints. If you're not a fan of crowds, consider a mid-week visit instead. You’ll find the same great food, minus the wait.

For a full, sit-down breakfast experience, Kelly’s Diner is the OG. Housed in a classic silver retro dining car at 674 Broadway, Kelly’s serves up comfort-food staples like corned beef hash, pancakes, and eggs every way, with portions as generous as the mugs of coffee. Service is unhurried (translation: don’t come hangry), but the food is worth the wait.

Just a few doors down, Ball Square Café is another crowd favorite. With its friendly staff and extensive menu—think breakfast burritos, banana bread French toast, and everything in between—it’s no wonder there’s often a line out front. And tucked just off the main drag, Sound Bites is a longtime neighborhood staple known for bold flavors and even bolder breakfast combos. If you’re in the mood for spicy hash or a Mediterranean scramble, this is your spot. The 4Squares Favorite? Shakshuka. You won’t regret it.

For something quicker—but no less delicious—True Grounds at 717 Broadway is your go-to. Since 2004, this cozy café has been fueling the neighborhood with locally roasted coffee, homemade pastries, and breakfast sandwiches you can grab and go. The atmosphere is relaxed and creative—perfect for writing, reading, or catching up with a friend over a latte.

Whether you're tucking into a plate of eggs and toast or grabbing a sandwich to go, Ball Square makes breakfast feel like an occasion. Just plan your visit wisely—those pancakes taste even better when you’re not waiting an hour to order them.

Stock Your Kitchen Without Leaving the Neighborhood

For those who prefer to entertain at home—or simply want to eat well without dining out—Ball Square makes it easy to shop local and eat like a local. Whether you're cooking a weekend dinner or just need a few staples to get you through the week, two flagship shops make stocking up feel like a pleasure, not a chore.

Neighborhood Produce, at 691 Broadway, is perfect for those of us who feel overwhelmed the moment we step into a big-box grocery store. Compact, friendly, and thoughtfully stocked, this small-but-mighty market manages to check all the items on your list without the noise, chaos, or endless wandering. You’ll find fresh produce, pantry basics, and everyday essentials in a space that feels more like a neighborhood hub than a supermarket—and the service is just as personal.

Across the street, Ball Square Fine Wines pairs beautifully with whatever you’re planning to cook—or not cook. In addition to a well-curated selection of reds, whites, rosés, and bubbles, they’ve got everything you need for an impromptu charcuterie board and apps for days. Think cheeses, crackers, spreads, and other snackable treats that make hosting (or solo snacking) a breeze. Whether you’re grabbing a bottle for a quiet night in or stocking up for a last-minute gathering, the vibe is friendly, low-pressure, and always on point. You can keep the fun coming each month by signing up for one of their wine clubs as well. At minimum, follow them on Instagram to stay updated on wine tastings.

And let’s be honest—not everyone is a baker. That’s where Lyndell’s Bakery comes in. A true Somerville institution, Lyndell’s has been satisfying sweet tooths for generations. It’s the perfect place to pick up a loaf of fresh bread, a dozen cookies, or a show-stopping dessert when you get that last-minute dinner party invite. From classic pastries to seasonal favorites, everything is made fresh daily, and there’s something comforting about knowing this corner bakery is still doing things the old-fashioned way—in the best sense.

With produce in one hand, a bottle of wine and some good cheese in the other, and a pie from Lyndell’s under your arm, your dinner plans—or your spontaneous happy hour—are completely covered.

Taking Care

Ball Square isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to linger, browse, and take care of the everyday things that make a neighborhood feel like home. Whether you’re crate-digging for vintage vinyl, freshening up your pup, or finally booking that overdue haircut, Ball Square has something for everyone.

Music lovers will want to spend time at Stereo Jack’s Music Store, a beloved indie shop known for its deep collection of used vinyl and vintage stereo gear. It's a true treasure hunt—perfect for audiophiles, collectors, or anyone who simply loves the feel of flipping through records. The vibe is unapologetically old-school, and the staff knows their stuff. You’re as likely to walk out with a rare LP as you are with a new favorite artist.

If your furry friend is looking scruffier than usual, head to Stinky’s Kittens and Dogs, Ball Square’s resident pet grooming spot. With a name you won’t forget and a reputation for gentle, professional care, Stinky’s keeps local pets looking (and smelling) their best. They offer grooming services for both cats and dogs, and the playful vibe is part of the charm.

Once your pooch is looking their best, stroll them on over to Nathan Tufts Park (locally known as Powderhouse Park) and walk up the gentle little hill to the historic stone Powder House (and windmill, it was multi-purpose!) overlooking a green corner of the Tufts University campus. With just one little slide built into the dramatic rocks there, this park is more of a peaceful respite than a playground for much of the year.

For your own self-care, Amal Niccoli Salon is a trusted go-to for cuts, color, and styling. Whether you're looking for a refresh or something completely new, the stylists here are known for their talent and their ability to make you feel like your best self.

From vintage vinyl to fresh new cuts for you (and Fido!), Ball Square blends the practical with the soulful. It’s a neighborhood that makes space for music and time for you, so the good vibes keep vibing.

Settle In for the Evening

When the sun starts to dip, Ball Square doesn’t exactly turn into a nightlife hotspot—but that’s part of the charm. The evening vibe here is more “let’s catch up over dinner” than “last call at the bar,” and if that’s your speed, you’re in the right place.

Start with a table at Avenue Kitchen + Bar, where the menu features Detroit-style pizza, oysters, grain bowls, and inventive cocktails—all served in a stylish yet comfortable setting. It’s the kind of place that works for a casual weeknight dinner or a relaxed date night, with a rotating draft list and creative specials that keep things interesting. Mid-week oyster specials are a standout, and in the warmer months, their cozy little patio is the perfect spot to unwind. Pro tip: order ahead so you can literally grab dinner the moment you step off the train on your way home from work.

Craving bold flavors? Head to Blue Elephant, Ball Square’s modern Thai standout. Whether you go for their rich red curry, crisp Hoi Jor (deep-fried crab nuggets), or a steamy bowl of their signature Thai Veggie Soup, you’ll find the food consistently fresh and flavorful. It’s a great choice for dine-in or takeout, especially if you enjoy evenings with a little spice.

While Ball Square isn’t known for a roaring nightlife scene, there’s something comforting about its early evening energy—restaurants filled with locals, conversations flowing, and the gentle hum of a neighborhood winding down. It’s less about staying out late and more about being present, well-fed, and surrounded by good company.

So whether you’re winding down with pizza and a beer, sipping a cocktail with friends, or grabbing Thai takeout to enjoy at home, Ball Square serves up the kind of evening that feels just right.

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