Supporting Local Businesses & Non-Profits in a Time of Crisis

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Whether you’ve spent the better part of the last few weeks working from the comfort of your home, binging Tiger King on Netflix, starting a new quarantine hobby/craft, or just doing whatever you can to stay sane during the craziness- we all have one thing in common. We are eternally grateful for the people and institutions that are helping to keep our communities healthy and operational.

And while we continue to practice safe social distancing and do our part to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Lighthouse team understands that these simple actions may not be enough to satisfy your urge to support your neighbors. This is why we have compiled a guide to local funding and relief efforts across South Boston and the surrounding neighborhoods that will go directly to assisting your fellow Bostonian’s in need.

While all of these resources provide impactful ways to give back, we understand if you’re looking for a more direct way to support your community. It can be difficult to feel as though you’re not doing your part to help, especially when the best thing you can do is truly staying home. Which is why we’ve also compiled a list of ways you can more actively support your neighbors while still helping to flatten the curve.

Purchase take-out from your favorite restaurant.

Whether you’re itching for a slice from Broadway Pizza, or you’re craving Sullivan’s famous lobster roll, ordering take-out will help to keep your favorites in business during this difficult time. While many community staples are closed for dining-in, you can continue to enjoy the food you love, and feel good while doing it, by ordering curbside pick-up or delivery.

Consider donating to small business relief efforts.

Like the relief efforts mentioned above, there are many different organizations that are collecting money or food to assist those that truly need it during this global pandemic. If you are looking for something more hyper-local, consider donating to funds that are specific to small businesses in your area, such as the Small Business Relief fund from the City of Boston.

Take advantage of the alternative services being offered by local businesses.

From the online training and wellness sessions being offered by the BAC, to livestreamed power yoga from East Side Yoga, and locally delivered color touch up kits from our neighbors at Salon De Cheveux, businesses are adapting to the new normal in a variety of ways. Taking advantage of these special services allows you to continue your personal care routine while abiding by social distancing best practices, and doing your part to support your community!

If all else fails, purchase a gift card.

If you’re not interested in the alternatives offered by your favorite community institutions, you can still support local businesses by purchasing gift cards to be used when the pandemic is finally over. From hair and nail salons to restaurants, to boutiques, and more, any of the places that you would frequent prior to the pandemic would love to have a guarantee that you’ll still be there when the storm is over.

No matter how difficult things become, there is always a silver lining to be found. And while there is no doubt that this pandemic has left not a single person, business, or community unscathed, it has shown just how strong we can be when we come together.

As longtime residents of South Boston, we at Lighthouse are proud to support the local relief efforts and businesses that make our Southie neighborhood so great. We urge you to continue doing what you can to help fight the pandemic. Whether that means washing your hands 175 times a day, maintaining a proper social distance, donating to relief efforts, or even just ordering a pizza while you catch up on Little Fires Everywhere on HULU, your efforts make a difference. This is a challenging time, and while things may seem dark now, we will get through COVID-19 the same way we have weathered every storm before it — together.

What you need to know about the new Massachusetts law requiring drivers to use their mobile devices in hands-free mode

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Texting, watching YouTube videos, checking email, calling a friend, all of these are normal everyday things that most of us do on our cell phones. However, when you’re operating a vehicle, holding your phone, and attempting to do any or all of these things, has been proven to dangerously distract you from the task at hand – driving your car.

Now, a new Massachusetts law, titled An Act Requiring The Hands-Free Use Of Mobile Telephones While Driving, is aimed at trying to curb these risky driving behaviors. You may have already heard rumblings about this law as it’s been in the works for almost two decades. It was finally signed into law by Governor Charlie Baker in November 2019.

While these new road rules do not go into effect until February 23, 2020, the Lighthouse team wants to give you fair warning about what this law means for your cell phone use while driving.

The most important thing to know about this law is that drivers caught using hand-held phones while operating their vehicle – or even while stopped in an active lane of traffic – are probably going to receive a hefty fine.

What are the fines for the new hands-free law in Massachusetts?

For your first offense, you will be charged $100. Then, $250 for the second offense. And then, for the third and any subsequent offenses, you can expect to be hit with a $500 fine (each time). These fines are substantial. Definitely enough to make you think twice about texting your BFF about your Friday night plans while driving home from work!

Instead of racking up fines from the staties, the Lighthouse team encourages you to make a much smaller investment in some simple hands-free technology. A cell phone mount that attaches to your cup holder, window, CD player, or air vent should only cost you about $15 to $30. Along with a Bluetooth device, you might be looking at spending about $60.

To us, this outlay of cash is well worth it. And not just because these purchases will hopefully help you avoid costly tickets. Going hands-free also means that you should be safer behind the wheel. In addition, you will be keeping the roadways much safer for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers who are often the victims when there is an accident resulting from distracted driving.

We do want to acknowledge that there is a grace period between February 23rd and March 31st for drivers caught holding their phones. Police may still pull you over for not following the law, but they will likely just give you a warning. However, starting April 1, 2020, expect to get a fine for your lawless behavior.

What does the hands-free law in Massachusetts say drivers can do?

The new law explicitly outlines a few very simple – and legal – ways to use your hands-free phone while driving:

  • You can use your voice controls to ask Siri, Alexa, or your Google assistant to dial a number or read a text for you.
  • You can use your phone’s GPS to help with navigation.
  • You can swipe your phone once to activate or deactivate hands-free mode.
  • You can also use your phone to ask for medical assistance and to report a road emergency or accident to the police.

While these are the examples that we found specifically spelled out in the law itself, there are probably several other ways you can think of to use your smart device while driving that will not require you to pick it up. In fact, if your car is less than five years old, it is very likely you have Bluetooth and GPS built right into your stereo system, making this new law a piece of cake to follow.

Why did Massachusetts pass a hands-free driving law after all this time?

As you most likely know, texting while driving has been illegal in the Bay State for a decade. Even just shooting off a quick, “Traffic sucks!” text while stuck in a traffic jam on 93 is considered breaking this law.

However, as you’ve probably seen when you’re on the roadways, this law really hasn’t changed many people’s cell phone behaviors. In fact, there have continued to be an alarming amount of pedestrian accidents and car crashes due to drivers who were distracted by their hand-held mobile devices.

According to Mass.gov, car accidents due to distracted driving rose 170% from 2014 to 2016. And, that’s not the only eye-opening statistic we found. In 2018, a report issued by the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) stated that 6,227 pedestrians were killed in automobile crashes nationwide, the highest mortality rate since 1990, and one that is, unfortunately, still climbing.

Massachusetts’ hands-free cell phone law finally came to fruition because of the tireless efforts of a diverse group of lawmakers, advocacy groups, and people like you and us, who want to see these tragic numbers rapidly decline.

A final thought on this law from the Lighthouse team.

As an agency that specializes in commercial vehicle insurance, mainly taxicabs, we get claims almost daily that demonstrate to us that distracted driving is truly a crisis that needs to be addressed right now. As your local, South Boston insurance agent, we want you to be informed about the new Massachusetts law that aims at tackling this issue. But, most importantly, we want you to be safe.

Not only can a safe driving record, well, keep you safe, it can also possibly save you money on your auto insurance in the form of safe driving credits. Give us a call, 617-464-3777, to ask us about the Disappearing Deductible endorsement. This powerful addition to a comprehensive auto policy is one more way that working with a local agent like Lighthouse can benefit you.

Accident Forgiveness — What You Need to Know

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Are you considering adding accident forgiveness to your car insurance policy? Here at Lighthouse Insurance, we have seen that this added coverage can save people a whole lot of money in the event they get into an accident. We also know that there can be a lot of confusion around this added insurance endorsement. That’s why we’re answering frequently asked questions so you know exactly what accident forgiveness is all about.

 

What is Accident Forgiveness?

Accident Forgiveness is an additional coverage that can be added to your auto insurance policy to help avoid a rate increase following an at-fault accident.

 

Who is Eligible?

Accident Forgiveness is only available if you are an excellent driver with a clean driving record. For these reasons, you must have a minimum of six years driving experience and have a driving record that is free of accidents and moving violations.

 

What is the Cost?

For qualified drivers, adding Accident Forgiveness to their car insurance policy is not only a wise decision, it’s also an affordable one. On average, this endorsement costs drivers an additional $25 per month — that’s less than one dollar a day!

 

How does it work?

When it comes to auto insurance, insurance companies review your driving record and look at moving violations and any accidents to determine your insurance premium. Therefore, when you get into an accident your insurance premium can increase significantly. If you get into an accident but have the added Accident Forgiveness endorsement, while the accident still goes on your driving record, the insurance company agrees to forgive this accident and will not increase your premium. Once you use the endorsement, however, you can not use it again until your driving record completely clears. Since the accident is still on your driving record, it’s important to note that if you switch insurance companies, the accident will be calculated into the new insurance policy — meaning you could end up paying a higher premium with the new company.
No one ever plans to get into an accident, but being prepared in case one does occur can make all the difference. As an excellent driver, you can benefit from this added endorsement to help save money in the event of an at-fault accident. For more questions about Accident Forgiveness or to talk to a Lighthouse Insurance agent about adding this endorsement to your current auto policy, contact us today.

St. Patrick’s Day Safety

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St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner and you know what that means — everyone travels near and far by way of the red line to celebrate one thing, being Irish! And being located right on West Broadway in the heart of South Boston, we are no stranger to this day. That’s why we’re offering the inside scoop to celebrating St. Patty’s in Southie, safely, of course.

 

Attending the Parade

St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Saturday this year, but the annual and historic parade will hit the streets in Southie on Sunday, March 18th at 1:00pm. If you plan on attending the parade, the best way to get a front and center view is to arrive early to stake out your viewing spot. St. Patrick’s Day is a busy time in town, so your best bet is to take the T to Broadway or Andrew and find a viewing location along the parade route.

 

Out on the Town

The parade isn’t the only tradition that happens in Boston on St. Patrick’s Day. There are 5k runs, concerts, and of course, pub crawls. But no matter how you spend the day, remember you are in a crowded city and safety should always be a priority.

1. Stay Together — It’s important that you keep track of your friends and stay with a group. The city is a busy place every day of the year, but it becomes even more hectic on St. Patty’s Day. Make sure the people you arrive with are the same people you leave with. And don’t forget to fully charge cell phones in case someone gets separated from the group.

2. Set Limits — Remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint. If you find yourself going from one pub to the next, Guinness after Guinness, don’t forget to mix in some waters every now and again. While you’re at it, you should enjoy some corned beef and hash too.

3. Get Home Safely — When the night is over, get home safely. Make sure you have a sober ride home. An Uber is just a few clicks away and cabs are around every corner.

 

Hosting Friends

Whether you’ve decided to skip the parade altogether or host the after party, there are things you need to know before opening your doors to everyone wearing green.

1. You’re Responsible — This means that if an intoxicated guest leaves your home and gets into an accident, you can be held liable for any harm to third parties or property. It also means if Boston police are called, you’re the one they look to if any legal issues arise.

2. Read Your Lease — As a renter in Boston, you should fully understand your lease before opening your home. Sometimes your lease agreement limits parties based off of size or doesn’t allow them at all. You don’t want to end a fun day with an eviction notice, so when in doubt, read your lease and ask your property manager.

3. Create a Guest List — The more the merrier? That’s not always true. Plan ahead with a guest list to ensure you know everyone coming into your home. This also helps ensure that the party doesn’t get out of hand.

4. Provide Snacks and Water — Be sure to serve food and non-alcoholic beverages to help guests stay hydrated and make sure they are not consuming alcohol on empty stomachs. It’s also important for guests that are not consuming alcohol, like sober drivers!

5. Help Friends Get Home Safely — After a long day or night of celebrating, make sure all your friends get home safely. Offer to call cabs for those that need a sober ride or allow them to spend the night. Do not let anyone get behind the wheel after drinking.

We know St. Patrick’s Day in Southie is something you want to check off your bucket list — but make sure it’s one to remember by making safety a priority! Happy St. Patty’s from all of us at Lighthouse Insurance — we hope the luck of the Irish is on your side.

 

Apps for Your 2018 Goals

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“New year, new me” seems to be on everyone’s mind in January, but how do you make these changes last through the rest of the year? Making resolutions is great, but sticking to them is even better. No matter what you want to improve on in the new year, making changes to everyday habits and tracking your progress are key to being successful — and what better way to do that than by using the technology that is so often in our hands?  In 2018, it’s only fitting that we look at apps that can help you stay on track and become a better you.

 

Money Management

Are you having trouble curbing your spending? Maybe you spend too much money on lattes or take out. Or maybe you just never took the time to think about long-term savings. These apps can help put your spending into perspective. Mint, Clarity Money and Qapital are money managing apps that can help you understand where your money goes while also making beneficial changes. You can easily connect your bank accounts to accurately display your spending habits, add saving goals for specific funds like a vacation, or get reminders to pay bills on time. If you’re looking to be more fiscally responsible in 2018, these apps are a great way to start!

 

Health + Fitness

Health and fitness always seem to be a priority in the new year, but it’s sometimes hard to keep that gym routine or diet going after the first month. That’s where your phone can help. Whether you are looking to lose weight or just want to be healthier in the new year. An app like MyFitnessPal helps you keep track of what you’re eating, log your exercise, and set personalized goals. If you are looking for an app that can help you get moving, RunKeeper, can track your running routes, set reminders, and congratulate you as you reach new milestones. And for those of you that need to slow down and focus on self-care, there are great apps to help promote mindfulness. Calm and Headspace both make meditation simple by guiding you through exercises that can help reduce stress and anxiety.

 

Productivity

If you are looking to just make better habits, then apps like Productive or Done could come in handy. Productive allows you to plan your days and track your progress while Done lets you create the ultimate to-do list. Both apps also have push-notifications for gentle reminders to focus on your habits.

 

Hopefully, 2017 was a good year for you. If you want to make 2018 even better though, the technology in the palm of your hand can certainly help. For more tips to make 2018 the best year yet be sure to follow Lighthouse Insurance on Twitter and Facebook.

 

Lighthouse Insurance is for people and businesses who want more from an insurance agency.

Call 617-464-3777 or visit https://lhstage.wpengine.com/ for a free insurance quote.

Bostonian Bucket List

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So you’ve finally unpacked those boxes, put your things away, and this city is starting to feel like home. But you’re not a true Bostonian until you’ve lived like the locals. That’s why we’ve put together our very own Bostonian Bucket List.

 

Learn to Ride the T Like A Pro

If you’re asking yourself, “what is the ‘T’?,” well that’s step one. The public transportation system, which others might call the subway, is signified by the single letter “T” and that’s the way we like it here in Boston.

Bostonian Bucket List

Find Some Treasures at the SoWa Market

The SoWa Open Market is a place for food, drinks, art, and a lot of fun. Spend a sunny afternoon looking through beautiful prints made by local artists and one of a kind, hand-crafted jewelry, all while enjoying music and good eats. You can’t go wrong.

 

Explore the Greenery at the Arnold Arboretum

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See a Game at Fenway

Bostonians love their sports teams, because they’re the best, and seeing these incredibly talented athletes is something you’ll never forget. But even if you’re not a sports fan or a Boston sports fan, watching a ball game at Fenway Park should be a priority on your list of things to do. And for those of you looking for a completely unique experience, you can get a different view from Bleacher Bar, located underneath the bleachers of Fenway.

 

Snap a Selfie at Graffiti Alley
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Cheer on the Runners on Marathon Monday

The greatest day of the year falls on the third Monday of April. Embrace the spirit of this city by waking up early, finding a spot along the marathon route, and cheering on the incredible athletes!

 

Kayak on the Charles

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Ice Skate on The Frog Pond

When the weather starts to change, and we don’t mean for the fifth time today because that also tends to happen, but when it’s actually winter, you can enjoy the snowfall by ice skating on the Frog Pond in the Boston Common.

 

Swing at the Lawn on D

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Make The Trek to Castle Island

Enjoy the start of summer by heading to Castle Island — and while you’re there, don’t forget to stop by Sully’s for a chili cheese dog.

 

Watch The Sunset at The Docks on The Esplanade

Bostonian Bucket List

 

Now we know that there is much more to do in Boston than just these few things, but these adventures will help you start to make this city your home. For more things to do around town, and everything you need to know as a Boston renter — follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook. Welcome to the best city on Earth and have fun exploring!

Last-Minute Moving Tips

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September 1st is finally here, which means that renters will be moving in and moving out all over Boston this week and into the long Labor Day weekend! The city is about to get a whole lot busier — that’s why we have some last minute tips to help your move-in day go smoothly.

1. Read Your Lease

It might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to read your lease so you don’t miss any details. Often times, there is a tenant moving out the day before you move in, which means the landlord or management company may need some time to clean the property. The last thing you want is to show up at your apartment, moving truck and all, at 9 am when your lease specifies that you can’t move in until after 1 o’clock.

2. The Move

If you haven’t reserved parking for your moving truck — do so right now. You can reserve a parking spot through the city of Boston, to make your move a little easier. No one wants to lug your stuff from three streets over, so make sure you plan ahead.

If you have hired movers to haul your stuff for you, don’t forget to tip! If you have somehow convinced your friends to help, handshakes and smiles won’t do. Buying everyone lunch will make sure they’re still your friends after a long day of moving.

3. Don’t Get “Storrowed”

If you’ve rented a moving truck, do not drive on Storrow Drive! Storrow Drive passes under several low bridges and every year, without fail, at least one truck gets stuck. Not only will you block traffic, you’ll also damage your truck and possibly your stuff. You don’t want to be that person. You should also avoid Memorial Drive for the same reason. Plan your route ahead of time to make sure you’re not unknowingly following your GPS through these parts of the city.

4. Allston Christmas

Boston is home to over 35 colleges. With all of these students moving out, there tends to be a lot of stuff that gets left behind. Although this phenomenon has become known as “Allston Christmas,” you can score free stuff all over the city. When it comes to digging through furniture and other items left on the sidewalk, we advise you to be careful with what you take. If you do decide to partake, we recommend avoiding anything with upholstery, as these items can host pests like bed bugs, which you can then bring into your new apartment. And if you take wood furniture, be sure to inspect it for small holes, which could also indicate a pest infestation.

5. Renters Insurance

When moving day is all said and done, make sure your new place and everything that’s in it is covered in case of an accident with renters insurance. It’s often mistakenly understood that if your landlord has insurance, then you do too. However, this is not the case. Renters insurance provides three essential protections:

These three coverages protect your belongings, safeguard you against lawsuits, and help cover costs if you have to temporarily relocate due to a covered loss, like a fire.  

Not sure where to start? A Lighthouse Insurance agent can help you evaluate your property and belongings and find coverage that suits your needs and your budget! Give us a call at 617-464-3777 or visit or website for a new or existing policy.

 

Traffic Safety Tips

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Boston is known for a lot of things: our famous sports teams, the unpredictable weather, dropping the ‘r’ … and of course our driving. While we’re not proud of our terrible reputation as drivers, it is something we are working to improve with the goal of increasing safety for everyone on the road, including drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. No matter how you get around the city — these safety tips can help improve traffic safety for everyone.

Pedestrians

Be Seen

  • Before crossing traffic, make eye contact with drivers.
  • Wear bright or reflective clothing if walking or running at night.

Cross Streets Safely

  • Cross streets at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks when available.
  • Always look left, right, and left again before crossing a street, and keep watching as you cross. Be aware that drivers have differing levels of eyesight and skill in operating motor vehicles.

Be Alert

  • Watch for cars turning onto streets, even if you have the right of way.
  • Use particular caution when crossing driveways and alley entrances. Drivers may not expect you to be there or see you.
  • Avoid using your phone while crossing streets. If you walk into traffic with your head down, your reaction time will be delayed.

Bicyclists

Watch for Pedestrians

  • Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks — wait for them to return to the sidewalk before continuing.
  • Pass pedestrians with care by announcing “on your left” or “passing on your left” or by using a bell.

Signal Turns

  • Use hand signals to indicate change of lanes or turns.

Travel with the Flow of Traffic

  • Remember that you have just as much a right to be on the road as a driver.
  • If there is a bike lane, use it, otherwise you are entitled to an entire lane of traffic.
  • As a slower mode of transportation, it is safer to remain to the right of traffic, unless making a left hand turn.

Ensure Your Safety

  • Don’t text, listen to music or do anything else that could distract you by taking your eyes, ears, and mind off the road and traffic.
  • Wear a helmet.
  • In Massachusetts, you are required to have reflectors on the front and back of your bike to be seen at night.

Drivers

Pay Attention

  • Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists at all times.
  • Yield to pedestrians when making turns.
  • At red lights, come to a complete stop and look for bicyclists before making a ‘right on red’ turn.

Share the Road

  • Move over for bicyclists and only pass when it’s safe to do so.
  • Obey the speed limit and allow for reaction time.
  • Limit Distractions
  • Avoid talking on the phone and do not text while driving.
  • Enjoy your coffee or snack once you have arrived at your destination.

Whether you get around town on two wheels, four wheels, or two legs — we all have to follow the rules of the road. Pay attention and be alert to ensure everyone’s safety. Here at Lighthouse Insurance, we understand Bostonians are proud of their city, so let’s also make our safe roads another reason to love this place. If you have questions about traffic safety or your auto policy, a Lighthouse Insurance agent is happy to help — visit our website or give us a call 617-464-3777.

 

TNC Endorsement for Personal Autos announced by Plymouth Rock Assurance

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At Lighthouse Insurance, we are experts in all kinds of insurance, but our specialty is insurance for public transportation. As everyone knows, Transportation Network Companies (TNC) such as Uber and Lyft have exploded in size in Massachusetts, with an estimated 70,000 drivers.

The type of insurance TNCs have is unique in the insurance world. It is split into three different tiers based on the status of the TNC driver. Tier 1 is when the driver is on app with no job. During this time, coverage is afforded under the TNC’s policy with a $50,000 limit for Bodily Injury coverage per person and $100,000 per accident (50/100 liability limits). Tier 2 begins once a ride has been accepted. Once the passenger is picked up, Tier 3 starts. TNCs are required to cover Tier 2 and 3 at a $1 mill limit for liability.

Tier 1 is the part of this structure that puts the driver at risk. First, there is now a standard exclusion for TNC activity on every Personal Auto Policy in Massachusetts. Your Personal Auto Policy will not cover you if you get into an accident while driving for a TNC, and insurance companies have learned to recognize these claims. Secondly, the driver could be on multiple platforms at once, so there can be confusion over which TNC would be responsible if there were an accident. Lastly, they only provide 50/100 liability limits, while a driver may want more coverage during this Tier.

Luckily, Plymouth Rock Assurance has come out with an endorsement for personal auto policies that will cover Tier 1 on an individual Personal Auto Policy for a minimal charge. Having this endorsement eliminates confusion over which TNC would be responsible if you were driving on multiple platforms while also giving you the ability to control the limits and coverages on your policy. Ultimately, having this endorsement gives you peace of mind and more control, as opposed to relying on TNCs to handle a liability claim.

As experts in insurance, especially when it comes to the transportation world in Boston, we highly recommend taking advantage of this coverage to insure your own livelihood and assets. For a no obligation quote, call us at 617-464-3777 or visit our website.

Neighborhood Patios: In and Around Southie

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The sun is out and you should be too! Whether you’re soaking up Vitamin D on your lunch break or enjoying a delicious brunch with friends — we have a run down of local hotspots with great outdoor seating that you should not miss.

 

Coppersmith

40 West 3rd Street, South Boston, MA 02127

Coppersmith

via Coppersmith

This converted industrial warehouse is a vintage gem in South Boston. It features a cafe, a dining area with indoor food trucks and of course a roof deck.

 

Worden Hall

22 W Broadway, Boston, MA 02127

Worden Hall

via Worden Hall

At Worden Hall you can enjoy modern American cuisine and an extensive choice of craft beers. If that’s not convincing enough, they also have more than 100 whiskeys and modern inventive cocktails.

 

Atlantic Beer Garden

146 Pier Four Blvd, Boston, MA 02210

Atlantic Beer Garden

via Atlantic Beer Garden

At ABG you can take your pick from the front patio or roof deck. And should we mention you only have this year left to enjoy the food and drinks here — so go while you still can!

 

Sullivan’s

2080 William J Day Blvd, South Boston, MA 02127

Sullivans

via Sullivan’s

Since June of 1951, Sullivan’s has been offering delicious food at an affordable price on Castle Island. This Southie original only offers outdoor seating and is a definite must for dining al fresco this season.

 

Barlow’s

241 A St, Boston, MA 02210

Barlows

via Barlow’s Restaurant

Barlow’s features a great vibe and even better food. Their menu serves up everyone’s favorite comfort foods. Caught right between Southie and Fort Point — Barlow’s makes the list for patios to check out this spring.

 

Row 34

383 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210

Row34

via Row 34

If you’re looking to avoid the “college bar” scene — Row 34 has you covered. This professionals-only restaurant has a raw bar that will make you want to change your diet to oysters only.

 

The Barking Crab

88 Sleeper St, Boston, MA 02210

The Barking Crab

via The Barking Crab

Dine underneath the tent of The Barking Crab, located right on Fort Point Channel. The atmosphere is casual clam shack meets the funky feel of urban life.

 

75 on Liberty Wharf

220 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210

75 on Liberty Wharf

via 75 on Liberty Wharf

Enjoy the patio day or night at 75 on Liberty Wharf because this small and cozy restaurant has big views that don’t disappoint. The food isn’t too bad either — as one reviewer writes “SO FREAKING GOOD.”

If it were up to us, we’d eat every meal outside. Make sure you don’t let summer go by without taking advantage of these great outdoor eateries, right in our Southie back yard! Remember, before you know it, winter will be back … so make sure you don’t have any regrets!