The Paramount

The Paramount on Charles Street describes itself as an American comfort food institution, and it is a long-standing breakfast spot in Beacon Hill. The format is unusual: from morning until mid-afternoon it works cafeteria-style, with orders taken at the counter, and in the evening it switches to full table service.

Breakfast and brunch are the main reasons to visit. The Paramount Breakfast brings two eggs any style with a choice of meat and coffee, and other choices include huevos rancheros and eggs Benedict Florentine. Later in the day the Paramount Burger with bacon, cheddar and onion rings is a popular order, and the dinner menu adds dishes such as lobster ravioli, grilled ribeye, fish and chips and ragù bolognese. Daily specials are posted online.

Breakfast, brunch and lunch are served every day from 8am to 4pm, and dinner from 4:30pm to 9pm. Dinner reservations are accepted, but brunch is first come, first served, so expect a queue at weekends. As a general tip, the counter system works best if you have someone ready to find a table while the others order, and arriving before the weekend brunch peak saves time. Pickup orders can be placed by phone.

The Paramount suits families, groups of friends and solo travellers looking for a filling, unfussy meal, and it is a good-value way to start a day of sightseeing. Prices are moderate. The menu notes that it may not list every ingredient, so anyone with allergies should speak to staff before ordering.

Weekday mornings are generally easier than weekends if you want to avoid a wait, and lunch can be a quieter alternative to the brunch rush. Coming back for dinner is worthwhile too, since table service makes the evening feel quite different from the daytime counter. Portions are generous, so sharing a side between two is often enough.

Charles Street runs through Beacon Hill and separates Boston Common from the Public Garden further along, which makes The Paramount a convenient breakfast before a walk through the Public Garden or along the Freedom Trail from Boston Common. Cheers Beacon Hill, on Beacon Street opposite the Public Garden, is also within walking distance.