Myers + Chang

Myers + Chang is a longtime South End favorite that still feels buzzy more than a decade in. Founded by James Beard Award–winning chef-owner Joanne Chang, the restaurant blends Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese influences into a menu that’s bold, playful, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of place that works just as well for a spontaneous weeknight dinner as it does for a planned night out, drawing a steady mix of regulars, industry folks, and first-timers.

The vibe: The room is lively, compact, and unmistakably fun. Myers + Chang famously describes its look as “diner meets modular home,” with bright colors, graphic touches, and a wink of Hello Kitty whimsy. The energy is social and loud in the best way, making it ideal for group dinners or dates that don’t require hushed conversation. Even when the room is packed, it feels convivial rather than chaotic.

The food: The menu reads like a greatest-hits tour of pan-Asian comfort dishes, filtered through a distinctly Boston lens. Expect fall-off-the-bone tea-smoked spare ribs, dumplings filled with Mama Chang’s pork and chives, bao, noodle bowls, and vegetable dishes that hold their own alongside richer plates. Flavors skew bold and crowd-pleasing, with enough range to encourage sharing across the table. It’s craveable food that knows exactly what it’s doing.

The drink: Cocktails lean creative and approachable, often incorporating Asian-inspired flavors like ginger, lemongrass, and Thai basil without going overboard. The wine list includes a thoughtful mix of bottles—often with a natural-leaning bent—alongside local and regional beers. Drinks are built to keep pace with the food, not compete with it.

Time Out tip: Weeknights are prime time. Myers + Chang offers a “Great Date Night” prix-fixe menu Monday through Thursday starting at 4pm, designed for two and priced to make ordering easy. It’s one of the best ways to experience the kitchen without overthinking the menu—just be ready for a wait during peak hours.