Lowell neighborhood Digital Guide

Gormley’s (135 East Merrimack Street)This mom and pop coffee shop and diner has been in Lowell since 1951 and is practically an institution. Stop by to say hi to Craig and Joanne!.

Vinaan Cafe (12 Cardinal O’Connell Parkway)Started by a recent UMass Lowell student from Vietnam, co-owner Sally really missed home and wanted to bring Vietnamese specialties to her adopted town.

Coffee and Cotton (Mill No. 5)The most relaxing coffee shop in town, Coffee and Cotton is open late most nights and serves up delicious food. Its name hails from the area’s manufacturing history.

Lowell Burger Company (143 Merrimack Street, Lowell)We haven’t found a more creative and interesting burger spot, with table service and white napkins to boot!

Pizza and Sub Stop (5 Merrimack St., Lowell)Sick of traditional pizza? Try their vegan fusion pizza which combines traditional Indian flavors with yummy flatbread.

El Potro (124 Merrimack Street, Lowell)On Thursday nights, the mariachi band changes the atmosphere of the entire Merrimack Street, and it’s a joy to be sitting al fresco at El Potro. They have the most authentic and delicious Mexican food in the area which recipes handed down from generation to generation. Also check out the hand-carved furniture.

Galeria Cafe (366 Merrimack Street, Lowell)It’s not every day that you can find traditional Venezuelan food in the Boston area. Take our word for it, Galeria Cafe is top notch and a local favorite. Across from historic City Hall, there is also a rotating gallery space for local artists.

Purple Carrot Bread (107 Merrimack Street, Lowell)This homegrown spot has the most inventive comfort food, from soups to baked goods.

Sweet Lydia’s (160 Merrimack Street)Started by a local resident named Lydia, their homemade marshmallows are out of this world and always handmade in small batches. From crazy flavors like strawberry shortcake to more traditional marshmallows, you’ll never find anything like these — originating in Lowell!

Dow’s Soda Fountain/ Red & White Market (Mill No 5)It feels like the 1950’s are calling, and you’ll want to put on your poodle skirt and dance the twist around this market. Or you could grab a seat on one of their swivel stools and be transported back in time for a brief moment.

Mill City Cheesemongers (Mill No 5)With a broad selection of local to New England cheeses, you’ll find some really interesting and small batch cheeses here including a variety of women-owned cheeses. They even offer classes such as a Cheese and Tea pairings class.

1981 Ramen Bar (129 Merrimack Street)For an incredible infusion of flavors, try the ramen here – it’s got a really rich broth and not greasy; the founders were born in 1981 which is the inspiration for the name. Tell them we sent you!

Warp and Weft (197 Market Street)Throw a dollar bill on the ceiling using a quarter, and they will donate the keep to charity. Operated by a family team and musicians, this creative spot turns into an open mic night.

Worthen House (141 Worthen Street)This bar has been in town since 1898. Imagine the secrets it would know if it could talk. Run by a wonderful mother-daughter team, this cafe is a must visit on any trip to Lowell or you could host your next event there.

LUNA Theater (Mill No. 5)An independent artsy theater in Lowell, the seats are really comfortable and the line-up is tremendous. Go here to play video games as well, which are free near the popcorn and snacks stand.

Red Antler Apothecary (Mill No. 5)Have you ever been to an herbal pharmacy? Well, you have to be careful and really trust the purveyors. The owners of Red Antler are very knowledgeable and educated, and we trust them completely. From harvesting their own raw honey to designing custom vinegars, bitters, and oxymels, if you have any ailments at all you should run over to Red Antler for a private consultation.