Ah, Peabody. You’ve heard the whispers about its hidden gems, but where do you start? Many towns boast great eats, but fear not. You have a guide. Here are the spots that make this Massachusetts city a destination for casual bites, celebratory dinners, and everything in between.
In The Game Peabody
$$ | (978) 871-2860 | WEBSITE
The loaded fries from In The Game Peabody are a certified crowd-pleaser. The appetizer, which arrives piping hot and generously topped with cheese and bacon, has a flavor so rich and satisfying you can practically taste the fun in each bite.
And while you should definitely have this mountain of crispy goodness on your table (note that the arcade games can get busy on weekends), the other attractions also stand on their own—like the ropes course that challenges both kids and adults, or the laser tag that turns the whole place into an energetic arena.
Capone’s Restaurant & Lounge
$$ | (978) 977-0520 | WEBSITE
Even on a Tuesday, there will still likely be a crowd of people waiting to grab a table at Capone’s. But it’ll be a lot calmer than what you’ll find on weekends. Take your wins where you can, and fill up on classic comfort dishes with great value like the standout turkey club and the fantastic meatballs and chicken parm.
Capone’s is a welcoming spot perfect for hanging out with friends, so it’s a great option for a casual weekend outing featuring live bands on Fridays and Saturdays for a $10 cover charge.
Outback Steakhouse
$$ | (978) 532-4280 | WEBSITE
The next time you’re craving a hearty steak—or just want a reliable meal that’ll satisfy better than a lukewarm microwave dinner—head to Outback Steakhouse. At the casual chain spot in Peabody, focus on the steak with baked potato and tangy tomato salad. By the time you finish the last of the piping hot French onion soup and tasty blooming onion, you’ll have already decided to make a Friday dinner here a monthly tradition.
Peabody Diner
$ | (978) 854-5800 | WEBSITE
The reliable Peabody spot eases morning hunger with fluffy blueberry pancakes and hearty cheeseburgers with crispy fries. For breakfast, order both the fresh coffee that perks up the day, and the attentive service that makes you feel like part of the local family. The diner maintains a cozy atmosphere for regulars, but we suggest arriving early on weekends to ensure you’ll snag a booth without delay.
Petrillo’s Italian Kitchen
$$ | (978) 977-5330 | WEBSITE
While Petrillo’s Italian Kitchen is always bustling for dinner, lunch offers a more relaxed experience with minimal wait. If possible, try to get a booth in the main dining area and order the ravioli as an appetizer—the delicate pasta and rich filling alone make it memorable—and the Fusilli Avellinese as an entree, where the generous portion easily satisfies two. The side of garlic bread that comes with meals is worth mentioning too.
As a bonus, the reasonable prices mean a complete meal for two comes in around $45 before tip, making it an accessible treat.
Trackside Bar & Grill
$$ | (978) 531-1047 | WEBSITE
Trackside Bar & Grill is a Portuguese restaurant in Peabody that embodies hometown charm. The friendly waitstaff will recommend dishes with genuine warmth (the wine, by the way, flows generously), and there’s a cozy atmosphere where fish and seafood cook in pots all night. This is where to go when your Comfort Food occasion falls on a Tuesday, whether that’s a casual dinner, a family meal, or a night with friends who want their own stew.
Sina’s Restaurant
$$ | (978) 587-3098 | WEBSITE
Sina’s Restaurant is our favorite spot in Peabody for a taste of Iran and a cozy evening meal, even if you have to navigate the North Shore to find this hidden gem. The restaurant keeps its atmosphere at a constant warm glow, and the space is usually filled with families sharing kebabs or solo diners becoming regulars at the welcoming tables. Get the pita bread with yogurt sauce, an absolute must-try.
Best Sandwich Company
$ | (978) 535-7000 | WEBSITE
Hearty Italian subs, top-notch pizza, and generously portioned sandwiches are all ready to satisfy your cravings at The Best Sandwich Company in Peabody. The restaurant makes incredible sandwich standards in a straightforward, no-frills space. Celebrate your visit with their real-deal Italian sub on a seeded braided roll, one of the most satisfying in town.
Giovanni’s House of Pizza
$ | (978) 535-1222 | WEBSITE
Giovanni’s House of Pizza is your game day spot if you’re rolling in with a crew and want to fill up for under $15 a person. The friendly pizza joint is pretty easy to walk into, open past 9pm, and serves fantastic food—all marks of an exceedingly above-average place to catch the action. Saunter in for rich lamb tip dinner plates, excellent sandwiches like roast beef on fresh bread, and generous portions that hit the spot.
Endless Hibachi & Sushi (AYCE)
$$ | (978) 854-5125 | WEBSITE
On those afternoons when you need a break from the ordinary, head over to Endless Hibachi & Sushi. This all-you-can-eat spot has been Peabody’s go-to for hibachi and sushi for a while now and continues to draw crowds. This is a lively, family-friendly operation, so expect to sit down, enjoy your endless plates, and leave completely satisfied. Going with any of the sushi or sashimi is a smart choice, but the hibachi prepared by Chef Eddie is also absolutely worth your time.