Seemor
J J Restaurant & TakeoutA-Worth Trying
157 Washington St, Somerville, MA 02143
· Portuguese restaurant, American restaurant, Coffee shop
· 4.5/5 Google (309 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Hidden Portuguese spot behind a corner store serving generous, flavorful grill and seafood plates at fair mid-range prices; go for the charcoal chicken and cod, expect simple digs and occasional waits.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
J J Restaurant & Takeout delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality—particularly charcoal chicken and bacalhau—paired with warm, attentive service and generous portions. Consistency shows occasional variation in fish and steak preparation, while the modest, hidden-gem setting lacks the polish for grade A territory. A beloved neighborhood institution with loyal following, but execution gaps prevent higher distinction.
Restaurant Summary
Behind a modest corner store lies a small dining room that feels warm and unpretentious. Plates land big and aromatic, often after complimentary chickpeas and bread. One diner put it best: the chicken was juicy and packed with garlic, and staff are genuinely kind. Cooking leans classic Portuguese—grills, stews, and bacalhau—more about heartfelt tradition than showy tricks. Expect assertive garlic, olive oil, and smoke. It suits those who love hearty portions and rustic flavors; occasional feedback notes a tough steak or slightly overdone fish, but most plates impress for the price. Families do well here thanks to familiar sides and grilled chicken. Kids can pick from fries, rice, and simple proteins; there is no stated kids menu, but portions are shareable. If little ones are picky about bold garlic or fish, steer them to the grilled chicken and fries.
At a Glance
- Charcoal chicken and bacalhau consistently praised
- Huge portions with complimentary chickpeas and bread
- Street parking is limited; no lot
- Occasional overcooked fish or tough steak reports
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- hidden_back_room_dining
- complimentary_chickpea_salad
- charcoal_grilled_chicken_specialty
What People Love
- That first bite of garlicky chicken
- Complimentary chickpea salad and warm bread
- Feeling like they found a hidden local spot
- Family-run friendliness and late seating kindness
- Portions that feed two without breaking the bank
Points of Concern
- Parking is street-only and can be scarce
- Occasional variability: a tough steak or oily/overdone fish noted by a few
- Holiday rush has produced rare undercooked chicken reports; double-check doneness on peak days
- Review patterns show strong local enthusiasm; mostly authentic with minimal manipulation concerns
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair the half chicken with shared sides to keep costs near $25 per person
- Seafood lovers: confirm which bacalhau style is offered that day
- For kids, split chicken fingers or grilled chicken with rice and fries
Perfect For
- Sharing a hearty Portuguese feast
- Casual weeknight dinner with leftovers
- Takeout that feels like home cooking
- Introducing friends to rustic Iberian flavors
Location Insights
Area: Mixed commercial-residential strip near Union/Inner Belt; modest storefront with neighborhood traffic and local vibes.
Safety: Generally safe, well-traveled corridors; typical urban lighting and foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Union Square dining cluster; convenience stores, small shops, and light industrial blocks nearby.
Union SquareUnion Square in Somerville is a lively and rapidly evolving neighborhood with a strong sense of community and a growing dining scene featuring eclectic restaurants, craft breweries, and cafes. It attracts a mix of creative types and families, offering a casual yet trendy atmosphere with a focus on local and artisanal food experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–21:00
Tuesday10:00–21:00
Wednesday10:00–21:00
Thursday10:00–21:00
Friday10:00–21:00
Saturday09:00–21:00
Sunday09:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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