Row 34, located at 383 Congress Street in Boston, is more than just an oyster bar; it’s a testament to the city’s rich history and a celebration of local flavor. Built upon a foundation of oyster shells, this Fort Point gem, a sibling to the renowned Island Creek Oyster Bar, offers a unique dining experience rooted in community and quality. Co-owners Garrett Harker and Jeremy Sewall envisioned a neighborhood-focused restaurant, paying homage to the oyster bars of the early 20th century, where workers could enjoy fresh oysters and a cold beer after a long day.
The very location of Row 34 Congress Street Boston speaks volumes about its character. Housed in a building dating back to the turn of the 20th century, formerly the Crucible Steel Company, the space retains original architectural details like exposed beams and brickwork. Interestingly, during the foundation excavation, a layer of 100-year-old oyster shells was discovered, a quirky historical fact and a fitting omen for an oyster bar. Co-owner Jeremy Sewall even keeps a bucket of these shells as a reminder of the site’s history. This historical context deeply influenced the restaurant’s design and philosophy, aiming for a “workingman’s oyster bar” ambiance, a nod to the past while firmly planted in the present Fort Point neighborhood.
Row 34 isn’t just another restaurant opening in Boston; it’s a deliberate choice to embrace the Fort Point neighborhood’s unique identity, especially in contrast to the rapidly developing Seaport District next door. Garrett Harker emphasizes this distinction, highlighting the influx of mega-chains into the Seaport and Row 34’s commitment to being a part of “our city,” Boston. He sees Fort Point as a haven for independent, local restaurateurs, offering an authentic Boston experience. This dedication to local character is a core value, setting Row 34 apart from pre-packaged concepts and reinforcing its neighborhood restaurant ethos. The restaurant’s location at 383 Congress Street places it right on the edge of this evolving urban landscape, making it a bridge between Boston’s gritty past and its dynamic future.
Comparing Row 34 to its sister restaurant, Island Creek Oyster Bar, Harker describes it as a “prequel” rather than a sequel. Jeremy Sewall expands on this, noting that Row 34 Congress Street Boston is a “stripped down version” in the best way possible. It’s envisioned as an everyday place, accessible and comfortable, yet situated in a unique setting. The atmosphere is intentionally more “rootsy” and “rugged,” mirroring the Fort Point neighborhood itself. This approachability is key to Row 34’s concept as a true neighborhood restaurant, a place where locals can feel at home and visitors can experience authentic Boston dining.
The idea of a “neighborhood restaurant” is central to Row 34’s appeal. Understanding that affordability and variety are crucial for a local spot, Row 34 is designed to offer diverse experiences. Sewall explains that the menu provides options for different occasions and budgets. Whether it’s a casual visit for oysters and beer at the bar or a full dinner with family, Row 34 caters to various needs. This commitment to value is evident in their oyster selection, ensuring that guests can enjoy fresh, high-quality oysters without breaking the bank. This approach makes Row 34 Congress Street Boston a place you can visit regularly, truly making it your neighborhood oyster bar.
Beyond oysters, Row 34 Congress Street Boston places significant emphasis on its beer program. Inspired by Skip Bennett’s dedication to oyster perfection at Island Creek Oysters, Harker and Sewall sought to mirror that passion in their beer selection. They focused on craft beers, both local and international, highlighting breweries with a strong point of view and commitment to quality. This curated beer list complements the oyster selection perfectly, offering a range of flavors and styles to enhance the dining experience. The focus on craft beer further solidifies Row 34’s commitment to quality and local partnerships.
The name “Row 34” itself has an intriguing origin story connected to oyster farming. Skip Bennett recounts his experimentation with oyster trays, specifically the 34th row in his nursery. These oysters, grown in a slightly different manner, developed a unique taste and quality. Impressed by these “Row 34” oysters, Garrett Harker suggested naming them, and eventually, the restaurant itself. This name symbolizes innovation and a dedication to creating something special and distinct, much like the restaurant’s concept itself. The Row 34 oyster story serves as a metaphor for the restaurant’s philosophy: taking something familiar and making it uniquely exceptional.
In essence, Row 34 Congress Street Boston is more than just a place to eat oysters; it’s a community hub. Bennett describes it as feeling like it “fits” perfectly into the neighborhood, as if it has always been there. He emphasizes the pride and excitement shared by everyone involved, from oyster farmers to kitchen staff and servers. Row 34 supports a network of people and businesses, creating a ripple effect of local economic impact. It’s a place with depth, built on a foundation of quality, community, and a genuine love for Boston. For those seeking an authentic Boston experience, Row 34 at 383 Congress Street offers a taste of history, community, and exceptional seafood.
