McKenna's Cafe

4.0 star rating
119 reviews Rating Details

Categories: American (Traditional), Breakfast & Brunch  [Edit]

109 Savin Hill Ave
(between Midland St & Sydney St)
Dorchester, MA 02125
Neighborhood: Dorchester
(617) 825-8218
Nearest Transit:

Savin Hill Station - Inbound (Red Line)

Savin Hill Station - Outbound (Red Line)

Bay St @ Auckland St (18)

Hours:

Mon-Fri 5:30 am - 4 pm

Sat 5:30 am - 3 pm

Sun 6:30 am - 3 pm

Attire:
Casual
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Price Range:
$
Good for Groups:
Yes
Good for Kids:
Yes
Takes Reservations:
No
Delivery:
No
Take-out:
Yes
Waiter Service:
Yes
Outdoor Seating:
No
Wi-Fi:
Free
Good For:
Breakfast
Alcohol:
No
Noise Level:
Average
Ambience:
Casual
Has TV:
No
Caters:
No
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes

Mike M. said: "Probably the best diner in Watertown and maybe in the area. The service is great and the food will put you in a food coma.  Been here a few times since the new people took over. I love it.  They always seem to have deal on Eversave or…"   read more »

Review Highlights   

user photo
"Next time I definitely need to try to corned beef hash." (in 7 reviews)
user photo
"...early a filling and super affordable early bird special." (in 5 reviews)
user photo
"Pancakes- best I've had in Boston." (in 15 reviews)
  Loading...
Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites' | Facebook Friends'

119 reviews in English

  • Review from Nicole C.

    •  
    • 79 friends
    • 77 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    1/23/2012 3 Check-ins Here

    McKenna's is the best breakfast/brunch joint I know of. We've always had to wait for a table when we go 12-2 on Saturdays. Later isn't as bad, 5-10 minute wait. Write your name on the list for a table or else you'll be waiting around like a moron not knowing why everyone but you is being seated.

    The menu is extensive and I've been pleased with everything I've ordered. First time I had the pastrami sandwich, which was delicious and stuffed with a ridiculous amount of meat. The potato salad left something to be desired, as all potato salad in New England does, but the sweet potato fries were AMAZING. If only they had a nice dill-ranch sauce to go with it... (what is this, the Ritz?!)

    For breakfast I opt for the omelettes. They have a lot of interesting creations to choose from. My favorite so far has been the Californian -- naturally, as I am a native Californian and avocado addict. The Swiss cheese is a delicate flavor that perfectly complements the avocado. The Killer Cajun intrigued me (chicken in an omelette?) and the waitress said it was popular, so I gave it a try. I think they forgot to put the Santa Fe dressing on it, which might have helped. The meat was dry and the flavor was blander than anticipated. It was alright but I wouldn't get it again. Next time I'm going for the South Of The Border. Mmmm, avocado...

    The portions are huge, food is excellent, prices are dirt cheap, and decor is adorable and reminiscent of the 1950s. BUT, my main complaints are the claustrophobic accommodations, spotty service (I want 14 cups of your delicious coffee, dammit), and the fact that the food never seems to come out hot. As for the first, what can ya do? Maybe someday they'll buy out that real estate place next door and expand. As for the second, they're busy as hell and I forgive them. And as for the third, I think they could do better, even if they are swamped.

    My boyfriend hasn't been as thrilled with the food as I've been (he also has a low tolerance for being seated practically in somebody else's lap) but he gets boring stuff like eggs and bacon. I dunno what you can do to make that spectacular.

    Given all of this, I should probably give them 4 stars, but I love the place too much to do that. Thank you McKenna's for the delicious start to my weekends!

  • Review from Chelsea J.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 13 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/22/2011

    Went to McKenna's for lunch today around 1:00pm and was absolutely thrilled. I was a little hesitant based on all the reviews about poor service, but we had a great experience. We were seated right away and the servers were very sweet and helpful. The menu was extensive with many breakfast (served all day) and lunch items. We had a hard time deciding because everything sounded so good! We ended up ordering lunch items (turkey stuffer sandwich, grilled cheese and a chicken wrap) and everything was delicious. I also had the banana hazelnut iced coffee (i couldn't pass it up after all the reviews) and it did not disappoint. Perfectly smooth and tasty, I'm still thinking about it an hour later!

    So glad McKenna's is right around the corner from work. We will definitely be coming back!

  • Review from Mina B.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 15 reviews

    Boston, MA

    3.0 star rating
    12/4/2011

    Food was pretty good but the service was terrible. I guess they treat their regulars with more gratitude because when I went there (it was my first time too btw) they were so rude! I couldn't believe I was in a restaurant with such unprofessional service. Our waitress gave us the check while me and my friends were still eating... hello? I'm not a waitress but it's common sense to at least wait until we're done eating to give us the check. When they were serving our food, they were like slamming the plates on the table. Ugh I would have totally given them 5 stars if the waitress wasn't such a b&%@$! Let me write something positive now haha

    Get the banana-hazelnut iced coffee. It's beyond delicious!

  • Review from Justin L.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 1 review

    Boston, MA

    1.0 star rating
    2/7/2012

    Every single time I say I'm done going to McKenna's, I wind up forgiving them and giving them another shot, but no more.

    To start, the place is simply too small. It's wonderful that it's become a popular destination on the weekends in Savin Hill, but if you aren't out of the house before 9AM, you can expect to wait at least 15-20 minutes for a table. They simply don't have that much seating, so turnover can take a long time.

    What prompted me to finally stop going for good was an incident in which a waitress talked down to us, was rude to us, and then slammed our menus down in a huff and stormed off. All because we took a few seconds to configure ourselves in a seat, and very politely asked to move to a more comfortable (and wide open) booth.

    We walked out without even ordering and haven't been back. I don't think I've ever received good service here, but I didn't expect to be treated like that.

    Three times in a row I had problems with my check, with items ordered never arriving (but still showing on the bill). The waitstaff almost never checks back to make sure the food came out alright, so this always is dealt with when we receive the bill.

    One time I stopped in when it was empty and ordered a simple breakfast wrap to go. After waiting over 20 minutes, I finally asked where my food was and was told that it "just came out." If I had 30 minutes, I would have just sat at the counter.

    Don't bother. Unfortunately, there are no better options in the area. Great food, but everything else about this place is sub-par.

  • Review from John H.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 10 reviews

    South Shore, MA

    4.0 star rating
    2/4/2012 1 Check-in Here

    As good as described by fans of this breakfast spot. Townie service is kinda to be expected in a place like this. The pancakes, bacon, and coffee were all terrific.

  • Review from Cheryl L.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 67 reviews

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    1/26/2012

    A place to stop. Had the chicken and rice soup and a turkey with cranberry sauce sandwich. MMM goood.  Nice environment, friendly service.

  • Review from Tom K.

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    Updated - 11/16/2011 22 Check-ins Here

    So sad to do this, but I'm knocking a star off.

    I've been coming here since circa 2006. And I'm still drawn to the delicious food, cozy atmosphere, and fun servers.

    So what's changed?
    Well maybe I've gotten older and crankier.
    But maybe not.

    It really boils down to two problems.

    1. The butter. Its delicious, but there is so. much. butter. everywhere. Seriously. Maybe this is why I feel like everything they serve is soooo good, but at the same time its slowly killing me. Probably literally and figuratively. Its just too much, I can't handle it anymore.

    2. Inattentiveness. Seriously, I love the staff here. I've been here so often, I know pretty much everyone that works here and they know me by name too. But it seems everytime I'm in here there's a line out the door but I still end up sitting around with dirty plates just waiting for the check trying to leave. There should be more attention paid here or a better system. Maybe drop off the check with the food? Pay at the counter on your way out? I don't know. But its annoying.

    All that said, its probably still worth reading my original review. This place is still great, still delicious, and still somewhere where you'll find me regularly on the weekends. I just don't think it merits the 5-star anymore.

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 5.0 star rating
      11/11/2010

      yes, Yes, YES!!

      More please!

      Okay, maybe not more in the same sitting, because the portions are… Read more »

  • Review from Sarah Z.

    •  
    • 7 friends
    • 24 reviews

    Manhattan, NY

    5.0 star rating
    10/23/2011

    My sister lives in the Area, and I wanted a quick yummy breakfast to have before my journey back to NYC, and this place fit the bill! We pulled in, parked on the street and walked in to a charming little cafe on the corner.

    Coming from NYC, my expectations were not high but let me tell you this is a great little spot, the food is excellent not to mention big portions.

    The service is a little spotty depending who you get, but we were lucky and had very attentive service ( we had multiple girls who helped us) so attentive that I was in and out in 20 mins. We also beat the crowd  by getting there at 9am. Mind you I had a 10am bus to catch at south station. I can't say if it was because of my out of town look, I'm not going to lie I did look out of place with my thigh high boots, leather jacket and black clutch! Hey, I didn't pack much...we got our coffee way ahead of the family sitting next to us, which I noticed did not even get their order In.

    We had the French toast, hazelnut coffee yum! And the Corned beef hash, eggs and home fries w toast, they don't skimp on butter either and I was ok with that. Really tasty food and you can't beat their prices.

    I like that they had a coffee bar and take out section good for on the go ordering...TIP- put your name on that list yourself so the hostesses can just look, cross you out and seat you.

  • Review from Christine V.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/4/2011

    As a new homeowner in Dorchester, McKennas is one of the many reasons why I love this area! Amazing coffee (banana hazelnut!), UNBELIEVABLE pancakes, fantastic corn beef hash, great eggs - at the cheapest prices around! McKennas - my tummy hearts you!

  • Review from Tanya Y.

    Jamaica Plain, MA

    5.0 star rating
    6/26/2011 2 Check-ins Here

    If someone were to ask me: "Where is the best place to grab a bite to eat for breakfast in Boston?"  McKenna's is the first thing that pops into my mind.  It has a homey feel to it, it's packed all the time with happy customers eager to eat, and everyone here always seems to be in a good mood, which puts me into a good mood too.

    McKennas always helps me start the day out right.  The omelettes are enormous, and always come with yummy home fries and your choice of toast.  Try the Killer Cajun Chicken one, it's delish!  The entire menu is available to order off of (even breakfast!) is available all day until closing [which is at 4pm, boooo, wish it were open later!] and everything is always cooked to order and in just the right way.

    Their french toast with fresh fruit [blueberries, bananas, strawberries] is also amazing.  Egg Sandwhiches?  Amazing.  Snickerdoodle Iced Coffee?  Amazing.  See a common theme here?  

    There's a $10 minimum spending limit in order to use credit cards, and parking available on the street.  In summation?  MCKENNA'S IS AMAZING!  Stop reading endless amazing reviews and get over there already! =]

  • Review from Stella P.

    •  
    • 36 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Los Angeles, CA

    5.0 star rating
    7/13/2011

    Mckenna's iced coffee tastes like heaven in a cup. Seriously it is the best coffee in Boston. I used to live right between JFK and Savin Hill and would choose to take the walk to the farther T stop just so I could get Mckenna's on my way into the city.

    Their breakfast is also fantastic. I would get breakfast no matter what time of day it is. They have hands down best pancakes I have ever had, amazing omelets, and if you get there early a filling and super affordable early bird special.

    The staff is also super nice and attentive and the restaurant has a very homey feel. I would be comfortable walking in in sweatpants and a t-shirt.  I have never had a bad breakfast at Mckennas and would recommend it to anyone.

  • Review from Tom W.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 9 reviews

    Boston, MA

    2.0 star rating
    10/17/2011

    Food is fine when and if you get it.

    I usually sit at the bar. Half my visits, i get up and leave after ten minutes and no service.  BE SURE AND BRING A PAPER. When i do wait and get served, that's it...your empty coffee cup never gets re-filled, and you have to beg and plead to get your check.

    Why so many people wait and wait to get in here to be ignored sure beats me. I live a block away, but usually drive right by on my way to the Victoria's Dinner.  Now that's a breakfast place.

  • Review from Katia M.

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    6/9/2011

    I've only been once, but I will definitely be going again and again. I came with my dad early one Saturday only to find that it was pretty packed. We only had to wait about fifteen minutes, which Dad grumbled about a little, but once we got in and seated, and I got coffee, he perked up. My veggie omelet and the home fries were awesome. As Dad put it, "That really hit the spot." We were very happy campers.

    Anyway, I have to return because the pancakes looked delicious!

  • Review from Julia C.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 7 reviews

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    7/23/2011

    This would be a solid 5 stars - if not for the mismanagement of tables being bussed and the "meh" service.  The food is worth waiting for - but you'll notice that the tables sit around for 10-15 minutes once empty (even with a huge waiting list) and the hostess is abysmal at her tasks.

    Also, I ordered pancakes with 2 ingredients in them -- and the waitress brings out the pancakes with only 1 of them (20 minutes after ordering) and just tells me they were out of x, and quickly leaves.

    Please McKenna's - fix your management and waitstaff - you'll make more money and everyone will be happier!

  • Review from Kelly M.

    Quincy, MA

    4.0 star rating
    5/12/2011

    I really enjoyed McKenna's. I had never really been to this area and I thought it was so nice.
    We went on a Sunday and literally the place was packed. We waited quite a while to be seated but I find that to be expected when you go out to breakfast. The menu was large and the food was delicious. We will definitely be going back.
    The only negatives that I can think of:
    You don't give your name to a hostess, you write your name on a clip board. If it is your first time there, there really is no way to know this. Also the waiting area is really small and can get really cold with the door opening and closing. not much that can be done with this though because of the layout of the restaurant.

  • Review from Aboud Y.

    •  
    • 79 friends
    • 424 reviews

    Cambridge, MA

    4.0 star rating
    7/2/2011

    Pain..gut busting pain.  That's what I get for eating so much food.  

    Its easy to do at McKenna's...they have so many awesome menu items to choose from and dish out generous portions at very reasonable prices.  I also really like the decor and atmosphere.  

    I will venture out to Dot for breakfast again!

  • Review from Steve B.

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    6/17/2011 2 Check-ins Here

    Everything has already been said about McKennas, so in the interest of originality, I present my McKenna's haiku...

    The breakfast tastes good

    Signature Wrap is yummy

    Inexpensive check!

  • Review from Yuko A.

    Honolulu, HI

    4.0 star rating
    5/9/2011

    First off, you must go early because they only had a couple of waitresses and it gets CROWDED!

    I had a veggie omelete which was nothing over the top. It was filled with veggies, and came with a side of toast and potatoes. The potatoes were good, not too crispy and not too oily and seasoned well. My boyfriend got the pancakes. He got a full stack and got three pancakes. Beware, unless you are really hungry there is no way you will be able to eat them all cause they were big pancakes. They were yummy, he could not stop raving about them and they were only 4.99 which is a great deal. Next time I definitely need to try to corned beef hash.

  • Review from Jordan L.

    •  
    • 1 friend
    • 6 reviews

    Rockland, MA

    5.0 star rating
    4/21/2011

    The only negative here is that I could eat here daily... And am often guilty of at least one of their fantastic ice teas or ice coffees!
    The pancakes & french toast are where it's at. If your in on a friday, they have fresh fish as well! Don't be afraid to venture on to the rest of the menu- I have liked everything I have ordered! I just happen to love breakfast food anytime (which they happily do)
    The girls there are great! So personable they seem to know every face walking in the door. Gives the cozy cafe even more of a comforting feel :)

  • Review from Bryn B.

    •  
    • 24 friends
    • 25 reviews

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    7/6/2011

    Oh McKenna's. I have mixed feelings about this breakfast joint. The food is unsurpassed - absolutely delicious. There's nothing negative I can say about the food. The service, however, leaves much to be desired. Most of the waitresses I've had here have been extremely unpleasant.

    On one occasion, I was with a friend getting a hearty hangover breakfast, you know the kind. Our waitress "greeted" us at the door by trying to push us towards the bar, which was crowded, because she only had a four top. After she reluctantly cleared the table for us, we witnessed her try to get another guy to sit at the bar. This poor guy just wanted a table, big mistake.  She told the guy that she didn't want to seat him at a two person table and asked if he could go "find a friend." It was a David After Dentist "is this real life?" moment. And yes, this is real life.

    If you can get passed the ogre at the door, you'll definitely enjoy the food, which always comes out hot and in a good amount of time. Be aware the the portions are pretty generous so don't over-order. And as much as I just bitched about the service, I still come here for breakfast (the food is THAT good). Besides, collectively, it's quite an experience.

  • Review from Ruth R.

    •  
    • 5 friends
    • 15 reviews

    Dorchester, MA

    4.0 star rating
    9/28/2011

    Big portions, good prices, tasty food, so neighborhoody it almost feels like going over to a friend's house to eat.  The gals aren't always super friendly, but they're always real and down to earth.

    The line out the door tells you as much.  I wish they could seat more people, I've had to give up on waiting for a table out of distressing amounts of hunger!

  • Review from Adrienne T.

    Boston, MA

    1.0 star rating
    3/21/2011

    Ick!  The food was nothing spectacular, I asked for scrambled eggs with cheese, they came out with no cheese, homefries were basic, sausage was burnt, and service (short haired server behind counter) was sullen (unless she knew you).

    This was my first visit, and it was definitely my last.  Not sure what others are raving about, perhaps they just haven't had a REAL down home breakfast like the ones you get at Ashley's or Ma & Pa Cafe (both also in Dorchester).

  • Review from CrazyEddie O.

    •  
    • 12 friends
    • 5 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    7/17/2011 1 Check-in Here

    Great alternative to IHOP ! ! !!   Delicious Fast Food! and Friendly Prompt Service makes it a delightful stop on your way to Malibu Beach!
        (Beautiful waitress as well)
             ;)
       LOVE THIS PLACE! ! ! !
                 ~~   Yes in fact I DO have Facebook!  =)  
      Here:     http://www.facebook.co...

  • Review from Ginnette P.

    •  
    • 4 friends
    • 58 reviews

    Dorchester, MA

    5.0 star rating
    10/8/2011

    I had my first visit there didn't wait long, had a great server and the food was awesome! I'll be back!

  • Review from Elizabeth O.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 26 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/15/2011

    I'm not at all familiar with Dorchester and had never gone out to eat there, but my husband and I were in the area on a Sunday and had heard good things about McKenna's so decided to stop by.  I cannot tell you how pleasantly surprised we were.  Our food was outstanding.  I am almost always underwhelmed by omelettes but my veggie with avocado was so good I could not stop eating it.  My husband's pancakes were huge and awesome, and we both loved the home fries.  We did have to wait a little while but I wouldn't expect anything else on a weekend morning.  The food seemed to taste even better after we saw the bill - $25 for the two of us, including tip. I can't wait to come back, and I'm really glad we got to know a little more about this neighborhood!

  • Review from Louis C.

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    3/9/2011 1 Check-in Here

    McKenna's has amazing breakfast food. Kelly and I went a couple weekends ago for a late breakfast and everything was delicious. Kelly got a breakfast sandwich and a side of pancakes and I ended up getting the McKenna's Special (2 eggs scrambled, cornbeef hash, bacon, homefries, and toast) and a side of French Toast. The portions were good for the price, I couldn't even finish mine.

    There was a wait, about 20 minutes and the waiting area did get a little cramped but Kelly and I just played a game of UNO on my iPhone to past the time. McKenna's itself was very cute, with a bar countertop and blackboard behind the bar listing menu items and specials.

  • Review from Deb B.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 2 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    10/19/2011

    Love it here. The food is fantastic (especially the pancakes!), the coffee and ice coffee is excellent, and the staff is friendly and efficient. I can't say enough good things about McKennas. My only recommendation is to go early on the weekends because it gets busy.

  • Review from Allison S.

    Dorchester, MA

    3.0 star rating
    3/1/2011

    McKenna's is a small cafe that's consistently packed. Whether you're waiting to eat at a table, actually eating at a table, waiting for take out, trying to call for take out or just hanging around outside....I've never seen a lack of activity there!

    Rightly so - they have breakfast and lunch, both of which are pretty decent. When I worked around the corner, their chicken and rice soup was a frequent lunch staple. It was potatoes in it, comes with toast and the price can't be beat. The chefs don't skimp on the meat in sandwiches and they usually come with a side of potato salad. I've also had a few of their breakfast sandwiches and they're not too shabby either.

    Word to the wise: if you just want a quick bite to eat, definitely call ahead! I would say that lunch time during the week is their busiest time besides Sunday brunch. And if you're calling around 12:30 or 1pm, be patient! They tend to leave their phone off the hook on purpose (which is why I docked them a star).

  • Review from Brandon A.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    10/18/2011

    Called ahead for take-out based on a friend's recommendation (definitely the right decision) and fought through the crowd to get to the counter.

    While stuck in traffic on Dot Ave., I snuck a bite of my McKenna's Special and immediately had to pull into a parking lot to devour the rest. The food was unbelievable and instantly cured my hangover.

    I would HIGHLY recommend this place to anyone looking for a fantastic breakfast. Can't comment on the service (which everyone seems to mention) but the poor waitresses looked extremely frazzled while scrambling around the dining room.

  • Review from Mike C.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 34 reviews

    Dorchester, MA

    5.0 star rating
    4/18/2011

    I've been in Savin Hill for almost five years now. McKenna's is one of the greatest things about this neighborhood. I can't believe I haven't reviewed it yet. Maybe I just love it too much to count the ways.

    Yeah, I think so.

    There's nothing I want in a breakfast place that McKenna's doesn't give me. The breakfast is so good, I've never bothered ordering lunch, even though everything I see looks delicious.

    Butter on the side.

  • Review from Farrah K.

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 1/26/2011 2 photos 2 Check-ins Here

    I think it took a rough morning and a trip to McKenna's to cope with it to realize how magnificent this little cafe is.

    Warm and friendly service and heaping platefuls of delicious and inexpensive food. SO GOOD.

    BEST place in the Dot for breakfast (as their coffee mugs state).

    Everything about this cafe is comforting. The cute interior, the yum food, the warm service, and the fun locals who go there every day and seem to know everyone's name and story.

    Listed in: The dirt on Dot

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 4.0 star rating
      12/31/2010

      If you live in the area or are visiting, this is a great breakfast spot in Savin Hill. I saw the… Read more »

  • Review from Hieu T.

    •  
    • 27 friends
    • 18 reviews

    Boston, MA

    3.0 star rating
    4/1/2011

    Although I have lived here for 4 years, I never  pay attention to this cafe. Every time I walked by on my way to work, there is always a line outside of the door which stops me from trying it out.

    So, on a cold, snowy day, my sister and I decided to check it out. We arrived there around 10:30 am. There was no line, but the restaurant looks pretty packed. We got a seat at bar; which is fine because I hate waiting for breakfast food. I ordered a small stack of pancakes and my sister ordered French toast with a side of sausage (I think). It seems like we were waiting for awhile, when asked...the waitress did not put in our order (ggggggrrrrrrr). So, the waitress went to the kitchen and tell the chef to hurry up with out order - good recover. However, they never brought out the sausage. The pancakes were amazing! It was so big, I  barely finished it and took it home. The French toast is equally tasty! Besides the mix up with the order and no sausage, it seems like a decent place based on my first impression.

    I have went to try it again the second time. The service definitely is much better! I try the Tuscan omelet and it is absolutely delicious. It taste different, but it is good. However, it seems that they are missing the authentic breakfast foods that I absolutely love.

    Although I liked this place, I am still very faithful to Newcomb Farms restaurant located in Randolph/Milton line.

  • Review from Arona B.

    •  
    • 5 friends
    • 7 reviews

    Dorchester, MA

    5.0 star rating
    8/14/2011 2 Check-ins Here

    I think I qualify as a "regular" here.  I have been meeting a friend here for breakfast every week for about 2 years.  Friendly (if sometimes slow) service, great homey feel, convenient location off the highway.  And best of all - very affordable, consistently above average breakfast food.  Really can't go wrong.

    Their only "miss" - using frozen spinach instead of fresh in their eggs florentine.  Hey McKenna's - if you rectify this, post a sign about it, ok?  Until then, I'm pretty happily ordering my other stand-bys.

  • Review from Josh S.

    •  
    • 40 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    5/2/2011

    Great local spot in Savin Hill (Dorchester) for breakfast/brunch on the weekends. The granola french toast and pancakes with fruit are great, but avoid the freezer-tasting blueberries and go for banana & strawberry, or make it lunch with a turkey stuffer and fries. Also, great coffee/beverage options.

    I do have some issues with the menu: side dishes are way too expensive as an "add on" compared to the meal price and this place should expand to add a bar...

    When you walk in and navigate the hot-mess that is the waiting line, make sure to get on the list and check occasionally, as you can sometimes get skipped if you're not paying attention.

    Good people watching if you get there early enough, most locals know to avoid peak times as the restaurant gets crowded.

    $10 minimum on CC's, free street parking.

  • Review from Sarah S.

    •  
    • 5 friends
    • 45 reviews

    Boston, MA

    2.0 star rating
    Updated - 7/15/2011

    I am now on a McKenna's strike. The last few times I was in there I was nearly ignored- waited 10 minutes before anyone came to my table, had to ask for eating utensils, etc. I even had to go to the register and ask them if I could pay for my meal as no one brought the check after being asked several times and CLEARLY being done with our meal. The final straw was my last time in there. After sitting at the table for well over ten minutes as multiple servers walked past our table and not being brought water or greeted, we up and walked out. I will not be returning.

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 3.0 star rating
      8/17/2010

      The food here is really good (although just so-so if take out) and the staff is super friendly.… Read more »

  • Review from Chris I.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Dorchester, MA

    5.0 star rating
    1/9/2011

    I've been living in the Savin Hill area since 2002 and have been coming to McKenna's for breakfast regularly since at least 2008. My part-time job requires me to trek to Downtown Crossing early on Saturday mornings, so a stop at McKenna's before hopping on the T is a trip well worth taking.

    It's really a textbook definition of the neighborhood diner. There's always a ton of friendly and colorful local "regulars" (including cops coming in for a quick bite on their way to - or coming back from - a shift). The waitresses are attentive and chatty (but never in an overbearing way) and the food is always quick and delicious. I prefer the Early Bird Special - two eggs any style, bacon or sausage, toast or english muffin, all for $4.25.

    They also make killer pancakes, serve a great lunch, and even have a large variety of healthy selections like the Power Wrap and the Triathlete Omelette.

    If you get there past mid-morning, expect a line, but it moves fairly quickly and best of all, it's worth it. Businesses have come and gone over the past few years in the Savin Hill area, but McKenna's is still going strong, and there's a reason: the place is awesome.

  • Review from jan r.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 1 review

    Boston, MA

    3.0 star rating
    7/21/2011

    The food is delicious, most of the waitstaff is pleasant and efficient, there
    can be a long wait on the weekends,
    but the manager/waitress is miserable, unfriendly and rude. I have
    experienced her rudeness to myself and to other people. when I asked one of the waitstaff who was the manager they told me this women  Heleena was, so i had no one to complain to. that is why i am writing this.
    I am very disappointed to see someone so unprofessional managing
    a great restaurant.

  • Review from Thomas S.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 19 reviews

    Minneapolis, MN

    5.0 star rating
    9/12/2011

    Had an excellent breakfast here. Price was good, variety was good, service was good and food was excellent.

  • Review from Shana W.

    •  
    • 3 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Boston, MA

    4.0 star rating
    3/6/2011

    McKenna's definitely has the feel of a local diner/cafe and serves tasty food with some local Boston personality.

    I highly recommend coming here for breakfast, I've never had a breakfast meal from here that wasn't delicious.  I'm partial to the early bird special - two eggs any style, bacon or sausage, toast or english muffin for just $4.25.  The coffee is always hot and strong, what else can you ask for?

    I've had mixed experiences with lunch here, the avocado tasted off and the coleslaw isn't something I'd ever order again, but the fries are crispy, and sandwiches great (grilled with pleeeenty of butter).

    The service is frequently lacking, the real reason I can't give this place 5 stars.  My advice, sit at the bar if you can, and be patient.  If you are in a huge rush, get your food to-go.

    Or...if you are looking for something a little less diner and a little more restaurant, keep your eyes open for the new Savin Bar and Kitchen that's opening mid March.  Rumor is they will be serving brunch also.

  • Review from tony p.

    •  
    • 0 friends
    • 56 reviews

    Dorchester, MA

    4.0 star rating
    3/21/2011

    currently my third favorite diner.
    Excellent omelettes, pancakes, good potatoes, good french toast--smart shoppers will find good ways to order: two eggs, home fries, sausage and toast for less than five bucks.  
    Every time I eat there there is something wrong with my order--something forgotten or whatever.  But they are so nice they that I kinda feel bad being annoyed.  Good street parking.  Avoid weekends as they are packed.

1 to 40 of 119 (16 Filtered) |  
Page: 1 2 3
Write a Review

Deals Nearby

More »

People Who Viewed This Also Viewed...

People Viewed This After Searching For...