Union Square Somerville

 

 

Before it was Union Square, it was Liberty Pole Square and a hotspot for recruitment during the Civil War. Eventually, the town was renamed after the United States Union. After the war, it fell into disarray, with very few people living there.

 

Over the last few years, Union Square has been under construction and has seen a resurgence thanks in large part to brick manufacturing and other industries.

 

Bow Street is lined with impressive historic homes, while Prospect Hill houses many young families. Union Square has transformed into the new "it" spot, and that evolution will likely continue when construction finishes on the new Green Line Extension.

 

The Neighborhood Restaurant & Bakery is a hotspot in Union Square. Started by Mario Borges in 1983, the restaurant began in Portugal before relocating to New Jersey and finally to Sommerville. Mario has since passed, but his family carries on his legacy, making The Neighborhood Restaurant a great place to buy wine, baked goods, homemade jellies, sweet syrups, and more.

 

Union Square has a significant immigrant population. Some own popular businesses in the area, such as the contemporary Casa B, which is famous for its reinterpretation of traditional Caribbean-Spanish dishes. Casa B is a tapas restaurant, meaning most menu items are served without utensils and are designed to be shared with friends or a romantic partner.

 

If you prefer something a little more casual, look no further than neighborhood Irish pub Sally O'Briens, where the beer is chilled and the food is savory. Enjoy burgers and wings while listening to some of the hottest musical acts in town.

 

Shop 'til you drop in the heart of Union Square at the Bow Market, home to over 30 businesses, boutiques, and unique vendors. If you like the Bow Market, keep an eye out for the Night Market, a.k.a. The Somerville Flea, an open-air market that unites sellers of both vintage and antique wares as well as live music performances. The Union Square Farmers Market is a must-visit for everything from fresh produce and meat to baked goods and pasta. The market also believes in the importance of giving back, and its Good Food For All initiative works to make fresh, healthy food accessible to everyone.

 

Living in Union Square means you can take part in the famous Fluff Festival, honoring the sugary confection that is marshmallow fluff. If you're a fluff fanatic, attend the festival and dine on diverse eats, or visit the many fluff-themed vendors in attendance.

 

There is also an annual Oktoberfest in honor of the many local breweries with food catered by local restaurants.