Stroll through the Boston Public Gardens and on through the Boston Common on your way to start the Freedom Trail and there’s an ideal spot to stop for lunch before beginning the iconic Beantown stroll. A shady central location with a great view of America’s oldest public park, the Boston Common Concession Pavilion offers a taste of Boston to tourists and residents alike. Lobster roll? Clam chowder? Roast beef? Cannoli and a frappé? What is suitably iconic Boston cuisine for this gateway concession stand?

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department (PRD) is now accepting proposals for the next contractor to operate the concession pavilion for the next three years. According to the request for proposals, available online through the city vendor portal, a successful proposal will attract tourists and residents with a local Boston dining experience that reflects the City of Boston and maintains the building and surrounding patio area.

Proposals are due to the BPRD on Thursday, November 14.

The accepted applicant will be expected to provide the kitchen equipment, labor and supplies necessary to operate the pavilion seven days a week during spring, summer and fall and submit operating hours and menu pricing to the BPRD yearly for approval. Alcohol service is allowed as part of the opportunity, but the vendor will be responsible for procuring all applicable permits and licenses associated with food and beverage services.

The lease includes the pavilion and a small basement storage area for a minimum rent of $4,000 a month, with finalized payment amounts based on the accepted proposal bid. The surrounding patio is leased under a separate agreement that ensures the area remains open not just to patrons but must be maintained by the contractor.

Proposals should take into account that there is no permanent vehicle parking onsite and deliveries may have to be made using pedestrian walkways. The use of food delivery apps like UberEATS or DoorDash is also not permitted, as there is no access for delivery vehicles.

The previous contractor for the space was Earl of Sandwich. The family-owned sub shop claims the bold history of descending from John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich, who was credited with inventing the sandwich in 1762 when he ate a serving of roast beef between two slices of bread to avoid leaving a game of cards. The shop served classic subs, wraps, soups and salads at the pavilion for the last three years.

“We are excited to welcome a Bostonbased food and beverage operator to Boston Common, offering locals and visitors a chance to enjoy a quality dining

experience,” said a BPRD spokesperson in a statement over email. “We’re looking for an established business with a thoughtful plan, ready to thrive amidst the unique opportunities and challenges of this iconic public space.”