Beacon Hill Loses a Longtime Fine Dining Restaurant

A longstanding Beacon Hill restaurant has closed after nearly 40 years in operation. The Hungry I (71 Charles St.), known for its French fare and cozy subterranean setting, was listed for sale in mid-2018, along with the rest of its building (including residential space), for $4 million.

Chef Peter Ballarin first opened the Hungry I in 1981, playing into the historical charm of the restaurant’s Charles Street brownstone. With three dining rooms and a small outdoor patio, the restaurant gained recognition as a romantic destination for fine French food in the Boston area. Its menu included classic dishes like duck l’orange, filet of sole, and venison au poivre. The restaurant also served brunch on weekends.

Given the restaurant’s longevity, the disappearance of the Hungry I from Charles Street will leave a notable dent, but the street does have a number of upscale dining options remaining in operation, including Beacon Hill Bistro, Toscano, Bin 26 Enoteca, and more, not to mention the brand new Peregrine at the Whitney Hotel.

• The Hungry I in Boston’s Beacon Hill Has Closed [BRT]