The Fife & Drum Restaurant — Restaurant in Concord

Tucked securely within institutional walls lies one of the most exclusive culinary experiences you’ll never find on Yelp. Seating about 24 discerning guests, this hidden gem, staffed entirely by incarcerated chefs-in-training, offers a prix fixe lunch that’s part fine dining, part social commentary, and entirely unforgettable.

Upon arrival, diners are greeted not by a maître d’ but by security personnel. A photo ID is required—not to confirm your reservation (they don’t take any), but to gain entry. And don’t expect to text your foodie friends a live play-by-play—the use of cell phones is strictly prohibited. As a matter of fact, they aren't allowed in the building. The ambiance, minimalist by necessity, turns your focus squarely where it belongs: the food.

The menu is delightfully succinct: two entrées, two desserts, soup, salad, and a side of humility. This isn’t a place for picky eaters or large parties (groups over four are gently turned away), but those who appreciate well-prepared, honest fare will leave deeply satisfied. On our visit, the creamy split pea soup and crisp green salad set the stage for a surprisingly tender stuffed chicken over mashed potatoes—comfort food with a conscience. Dessert? A homemade lemon cake that was as good as Betty Crocker's finest.

At $3.24 (tipping is not allowed and please bring the exact amount) the meal is a steal—though let’s be clear, this isn’t about the price. It’s about the experience. One hour only, one lunch per day. No children. No frills. Just a quietly excellent, deeply human dining moment behind bars.

Is it the best food in town? Maybe not. But it’s certainly the most memorable—and perhaps the...

Great lunch option. It is at a prison and served by prerelease inmates. Check the website before you go for dress code restrictions. A bit hard to find due to lack of signs on the prison property (it is in the first building on the left). Food was good for $3.21 prix fixe, two options a day. No photos as you can’t bring...

Get there at 11:30 AM. Open from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Check website before going to make sure...