Legal Sea Foods was born in 1950 when George Berkowitz opened a fish market in the Inman Square neighborhood of Cambridge, Massachusetts. He opened it adjacent to his father Harry’s grocery store Legal Cash Market where customers were given “Legal Stamps” (forerunners of S&H green stamps) with their purchases. It’s here that the “Legal” name became synonymous with quality and freshness.
In 1968, the Berkowitz family opened its first seafood restaurant, right next to the fish market. The fish was simply prepared, either broiled or fried, and served on paper plates at communal picnic tables. Despite the low-key trappings, the food was second to none and word quickly spread. This early success led to further expansion and now, six decades later with restaurants along the Eastern Seaboard, the family philosophy endures: Legal Sea Foods is a fish company in the restaurant business.
George's son, Roger, has been at the helm since 1992 and has expanded the business into new markets while maintaining the company's focus on its proud tradition and core values. So when we say, "If it isn't fresh, it isn't Legal!," we renew a commitment that has sustained us for over a half-century.
It’s not a fish tale, but a tale of fish 60 years in the making…of a family-owned seafood market that spawned a restaurant company. See the Timewave for an interactive look back. Or view our restaurants’ placemat that details our history.
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About this location: HoursMonday – Sunday 11am – 2am Boston – Legal CrossingLegal Crossing is an urban neighborhood restaurant inspired by the vibrancy of Downtown Crossing, then and now. It's a cross between all of the Legal Sea Foods concepts, evolved into a new, singular experience. The menu showcases the freshness and purity of our seafood. Tried-and-true favorites from all the Legal Sea Foods concepts (Legal Sea Foods, Legal Test Kitchen, Legal C Bar and Legal Harborside, Floor 1 and 2) – evolved by preparation and/or presentation – along with exclusive offerings, comprise the menu mix. At the same time, we’re shaking things up with our cocktails. Many of them are a playful nod to Downtown Crossing’s colorful past, while the influence of Chinatown is seen in some of the exotic ingredients used. Inspired by the urban setting of its neighborhood, Legal Crossing is slick, dark and modern with glossy, black brick paired with glowing amber glass. Our lounge comprises half the restaurant while our dining room overlooks the open kitchen. In warmer months, we open our patio along Avenue de Lafayette. Parking
Our validation will net you savings at the Lafayette Garage across the street at 1 Avenue de Lafayette. Weekdays before 4pm, get a $2/hour discount for up to two hours. Or park for $16 on weekdays after 4pm and all day on weekends. |