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• You know, even if there were a food truck that served sushi, it probably wouldn't be a great idea to eat from it. [Yelp]

• FYI, Midwestern transplants: you can order cheese curds from Whole Foods. [Chowhound]

• Desperately seeking the Himalayan food vendor from the Wake Up the Earth festival. [Yelp]

• The Pepsi Throwback: not entirely disappeared yet. [Chowhound]

We're heading out to MP Chicago's turf for the long weekend, but we'll see you back here bright and early Tuesday morning! Happy Fourth!

[Photo: Woodvines/Flickr]

The restaurant's name has been omitted to protect its reputation, as well as to prevent trauma for those dining at the back-corner table.

Nice place to take your date. She really liked the food and I loved the turkish beer. We had an intimate time at our back-corner table. :-) I'll surely be going back.

• Sure, this person is actually looking for pig's blood to make blood pudding, but can anyone see that phrase and not think Carrie? [Chowhound]

• Ah, the age-old question: how do you get people to actually read your food blog? [Yelp]

• When staying in Downtown Crossing and interested in checking out Faneuil Hall, it's hard to avoid tourist traps. [Chowhound]

• Memo to mangosteen enthusiasts: your local Asian supermarket just might carry them. [Yelp]

• The definition of "embarrassment of riches": trying to choose between Sportello and Clear Flour Bread. [Chowhound]

[Photo: Blood pudding, worldmegan/Flickr]

• The city's "perfect lobster roll" options include Charlie's Kitchen and Neptune Oyster. [Yelp]

• Michael Scelfo is killing it at Temple Bar. [Chowhound]

• Silvertone Bar & Grill still makes a mean mac & cheese. [Yelp]

• Attention Amsterdam enthusiasts (and we don't mean potheads): stroopwafels are available at many Boston grocery stores. [Chowhound]

[Photo: Lee Coursey/Flickr]

The spirit of the summer season was definitely shining brightly at Friday night's Chefs in Shorts event at the Seaport Hotel. A benefit for the Greater Boston Food Bank, chefs from across the city gathered to fire up their grills in the name of charity. In keeping with the relaxed spirit of a summer night, we took the opportunity to ask chefs about their own favorite summer dishes. Check after the jump to see who gorges on tomatoes and which chefs look forward to summer seafood.

Continue reading "The Morning After: Chefs In Shorts" »

• Your challenge: find lunch for four bucks without resorting to pizza. [Chowhound]

• The perils of Yelp: your review could get your friend fired. [Yelp]

• Cambridge Brewing Co is probably your best bet for a brewpub with decent food. [Chowhound]

• Strawberries on the brain, part one: where can they be picked near the Commuter Rail? [Yelp]

• Strawberries on the brain, part two: where's the best place to pick them, period? [Chowhound]

[Photo: sushiesque/Flickr]

Boston's gay bars are suffering a drop in business due to the rise of online dating and the increasing inclusiveness of traditionally straight bars, reports the Herald. Not feeling the loss: Club Cafe, which often fills up by 11 p.m. on weekends. [Herald]

• At least one Bostonian is willing to risk her life for Muqueca. [Yelp]

• When visiting Hong Kong Eatery, it's important to know the difference between roast and BBQ pork. [Chowhound]

• How to cheat at a Biggest Loser competition: grossly overeat the weekend before first weigh-in. [Yelp]

• Sing the praises of Boston's best working chefs. [Chowhound]

[Photo: justinlai/Flickr]

Last night's Inside the Obama White House special showed that, to borrow a piece of magazine nomenclature, the President: he's just like us! Brian Williams tagged along with President Obama as he made a trip to burger chain Five Guys (the discovery of which is credited to the First Lady) to pick up lunch for some White House staffers. Turns out the leader of the free world is a bit of a French fry fiend: he snacks on them while waiting for the rest of his order and, back at the White House, noshes a few from his cup hands-free while walking to his desk.

Burger Run: President Obama Goes to Five Guys [Grub Street]

The smart money here is on Craigie On Main. Chef Tony Maws is nationally known for the same sort of sustainable, nose-to-tail cooking as Barber and the restaurant has an excellent cocktail list to tempt the First Lady, who enjoyed the martinis at Blue Hill. The Obamas could also opt for a slightly less-known option, Garden at The Cellar. Like Barber, Will Gilson produces much of the food for his restaurant at an off-site farm, including, as of this fall, pigs! A dark horse: Sportello. Sure, it's a bit casual for a visiting dignitary, but the Obamas love Italian food (their favorite restaurant in Chicago is Spiaggia) and chowing down at a lunch counter, no matter how upscale, is a good way to look like a populist.

All The President's Rhubarb [Diner's Journal/NYT]

[Photo: Garden at the Cellar's Will Gilson, WBUR/Flickr]

Well-Seasoned: I-90 Becomes a Market for Local Produce [Globe]

[Photo: Svadilfari/Flickr]

• Is ice cream soda a lost art? Not at Picco Pizza & Ice Cream! [Chowhound]

• Smoothie options abound in Boston from Ufood Grill to Boloco. [Yelp]

• Some Chowhounders are embarrassed about never visiting board favorites like Angela's Cafe. [Chowhound]

• Where can you find pub-style Buffalo wings? Where can't you find pub-style buffalo wings? [Yelp]

• JP has lots of great dinners: try Vee Vee or JP Seafood Cafe. [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel is coconut&lime]

From the outside (and partly from the inside) you wouldnt expect much from this place. The menu is on a chalkboard on the wall and there is no kitchen.. just a medium sized room with a cook, waiter, and dishwasher. Let me tell you.. I haven't had food this good in some time. They serve it to you in the pan they cooked it in and it is fabulous. The aromas of the meals being prepared along with some pretty decent Italian beer makes this a place I will definitely go back to on my next visit to Boston. Bring your appetite and cash because they don't take check or credit cards.

[Photo: EdKopp4/Flickr]

Michael Schlow thinks Great Bay would have done better in Back Bay or the Financial District. "Great Bay was instrumental in trying to revitalize Kenmore Square, but the reality is, it was a high-end restaurant in a casual neighborhood," Schlow said during a press conference call this afternoon to promote Bravo's Top Chef Masters. Great Bay is Schlow's first restaurant closure and, while he loved the space and staff, when his contract was up shuttering seemed like the best course of action, given the current economic situation and Great Bay's price point. Schlow's forthcoming Westborough restaurant, on the other hand, isn't slated to open for a year or two. When it does, it will offer straightforward American food in a neighborhood that's "dying for a good restaurant."

Schlow appears on the first episode of Bravo's Top Chef Masters on June 10, where he faces off against Fleur De Lys' Hubert Keller, Aureole's Christopher Lee, and Tim Love of Lonesome Dove Western Bistro and Love Shack in Texas. He prepared for the show by watching a compilation of 25 Top Chef Quickfire challenges. "Like an idiot, I sat down and watched all 25 of the Quickfires in one night and then I basically had a panic attack." Despite his initial nervousness, Schlow enjoyed the show's filming, largely due to the competitors' comraderie. "We're all friends! We all see each other at food events, but to spend four days together was great."

Previously: Great Bay to Shutter on Sunday
Michael Schlow Takes It to the 'Burbs

• In case you were wondering Kickass Cupcakes is proud people hate them on Yelp, thank you very much. [Chowhound]

• Don't miss the osso bucco or rabbit papardelle at Mamma Maria. [Chowhound]

• Where in the city are the elusive yam noodles? [Yelp]

• Charlestown needs more awesome pubs. [Yelp]

• Boston is chock full of peanut butter desserts. [Chowhound]

[Photo: nodame/Flickr]

Back in March, we posted a guide to some of Boston's best food-related Twitters. Since then, we've discovered many more Hub food writers and restaurants on the micro-blogging service. A full list, complete with recent tweets, after the jump.

Previously: The MenuPages Guide to the Best Boston Food Twitters

Continue reading "The MenuPages Guide to the Best Boston Food Twitters: Volume Two" »

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Those looking for a restaurant to visit with 80 year-olds would do well to remember Harvest and UpStairs on the Square. [Chowhound]

• Summer beers are back on tap! [Yelp]

• Mistral's new burger could be a serious contender in the Boston Burger Wars. [Chowhound]

• Everyone's getting excited for Dorado Tacos & Cemitas. [Chowhound]
Previously: Brookline Burrito Battles: More Details on Dorado

• Summer's coming and that means its time for a beer and some steamers on the patio at Tavern on the Water. [Yelp]

[Photo: Steak at Harvest, spinstah/Flickr]

Mexi Market, a comprehensive Mexican grocery store, has opened up in Marlborough, according to a Chowhound poster. While it's very exciting that there's finally a Mexican (as opposed to pan-Latino) grocery in the metro area, it's worth noting that greater Boston is rich with grocery stores offering the foods of countries from China to Aremenia. We've made a map of some of the area's best.

100% Mexican Grocery Store Opens in Marlborough [Chowhound]

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Chacarero: am I missing the point? [Chowhound]

• The best way to launch a pre-emptive strike against someone writing a bad review about you? Saying that you're pretty sure someone is going to write a bad review about you. [Yelp]

• Mr. Bartley's Burger Cottage : it's really a matter of personal taste. [Chowhound]

• Pan pizza is not so much of a Bostonian concept. [Yelp]

• Why does Gran Gusto make me overwhelmed and sad? [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

Anonymous, 10:21pm:

We read all the fantastic reviews from yelp.com about Dawat Fine Indian Cuisine. While we were there ar sunday brunch we saw all the different varieties of dishes. The buffet even included goat meat, there was a chaat bar and south indian masala dosa included in the buffet. Their lunch buffet is exquisite. It had goat curry which one rarely sees at Indian buffets and rasmalai (my fav) for dessert. The naan they brought out was warm, buttery and delicious! Each day the buffet varies and on the weekend it's larger and includes dosa's. The staff was very friendly, kind and attentive. I cant wait to go back there this weekend for dinner!

Anonymous, 10:26pm:

Their lunch buffet is exquisite. It had goat curry which one rarely sees at Indian buffets and rasmalai (my fav) for dessert. The naan they brought out was warm, buttery and delicious! Each day the buffet varies and on the weekend it's larger and includes dosa's. The staff was very friendly, kind and attentive. I cant wait to go back there this weekend for dinner!

Jessica N, 10:39pm:

The lunch buffet is exquisite. It even included goat curry which is very rare in Indian buffets. They even had a chaat bar and south Indian masala dosa. The servers were very friendly and attentive. The atmosphere was vey calm and relaxing. Overall it was a delightful experience.

While we must commend the rigid conformity to the talking points (goat curry, chaat bar), restaurateurs and publicists, please don't do this.

This week's review, the utter joy of which we don't want to spoil for you, is for Four Burgers.

The burger was decent but expensive consdiering it was fast food. It's nothing special, but the fries are sub-par. They also don't serve Mountain Dew, a big negative.

I can't stand the atmosphere, but if you're a bobo/Yuppie you might like it. I was not happy when they asked me if I wanted a "whole wheat" bun. Do I look like I'm the kind of guy that eats his burger with a whole what bun, lady? But if you're into that whole organic/healthy pretense you'll like this place.

Admit it: don't you kind of want to set this man up with the woman who wrote the review for T.J.'s House Of Vegan Pizza, just to see what would happen?

• Beehive has great food, but the real star here is the outstanding cocktail selection. After a few Cold Turkeys (Wild Turkey, honey, cinnamont, Calvados, and champagne), you and your mom just might start dancing to the accompaniment of Sharon Jones, who will be playing live.

• Your mom deserves the best, so treat her to Craigie On Main, where top mixologist Tom Schlesinger-Guidelli will be offering top secret Mother's Day themed cocktails alongside the usual options.

• Moms get a free glass of champagne at Meritage's $58 brunch buffet. That champagne is, of course, in addition to the restaurant's novel-length wine list.

• The South End Buttery will also give your mama a free glass of bubbly. Supplement it with a few bottles of wine from their very reasonably priced list.

• Temple Bar has one of the best cocktail lists in town, and no matter what your mother's drink persuasion might be, she's sure to find one that suits her on the list.

[Photo: Brunch cocktails at Beehive, sushiesque/Flickr]

The James Beard Awards, allegedly the Oscars of the food world, are happening next Monday and three Boston-area chefs are nominated: Craigie On Main's Tony Maws, Lumiere's Michael Leviton, and Marc Orfaly of Pigalle. We spoke with all three and we'll be bringing you their thoughts on their competitors, the economy, and Boston's best up and coming chefs (spoiler: everyone loves Barry Maiden and Jamie Bissonette) all week.

Last but certainly not least, Marc Orfaly of Pigalle and Marco Cucina Romana.

Your local competitors for the Beard are Michael Leviton and Tony Maws. What attributes do they bring to their restaurants that are different than yours?
Tony's really extremely vigilant about using local ingredients. I really love his enthusiasm for that. Michael Leviton has really been part of the Boston picture for a while and he's been sort of below the radar doing great French cuisine for years. He opened his new restaurant in a really up and coming neighborhood. So, entrepreneurism is one of his strengths. Tony too. Cambridge could be its own city, culinarily and a lot of that is because of Tony. Both of them are very potent adversaries! (laughs)

The Beard Awards often go to established chefs. Which young chefs in Boston are you impressed with right now?
Jamie Bissonette at Toro worked for me for a while and he's really come into his own. He's a great match with Ken and he's really doing great. Barbara Lynch's chef de cuisine Colin Lynch is also really good and talented. Basically, anyone on Barbara's team: she has a really great knack for importing talent, but Colin is really really great. I don't know what you consider young, but Barry over at Hungry Mother is a really talented guy. I think he's leaning more on his Southern roots, but today people are really interested in comfort food and that's a level of comfort food.

After the jump, Orfaly on the search for the new Pigalle, what went wrong at Restaurant L, and more.

Continue reading "Meet Your Beard Nominees: Marc Orfaly" »

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Stop! Fiddlehead time! [Chowhound]

• Now is the time of year when a young man (or woman)'s thoughts turn lightly to the thought of ice cream stands. [Yelp]

• Get excited for mint julep weekend! Oh, by the way, there's a horse race too. [Chowhound]

• Everything tastes better grilled. [Yelp]

• Soft-shell crabs are back! [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

The James Beard Awards, allegedly the Oscars of the food world, are happening next Monday and three Boston-area chefs are nominated: Craigie On Main's Tony Maws, Lumiere's Michael Leviton, and Marc Orfaly of Pigalle. We spoke with all three and we'll be bringing you their thoughts on their competitors, the economy, and Boston's best up and coming chefs (spoiler: everyone loves Barry Maiden and Jamie Bissonette) all week.

Today's chef: Michael Leviton of Lumiere and Persephone.

Your local competitors for the Beard are Marc Orfaly and Tony Maws. What attributes do they bring to their restaurants that are different than yours?
Both cook in a fancier style than I do. I think Lumiere is a little more casual than either of those places. Tony's cooking is similar to mine in our use of local and sustainable ingredients. I'm not sure how much of that really influences what Marc does. I think what I do is a little simpler, but look, I've got a suburban bistro. By nature, it ought to be simple. Pigalle is a relatively fancy experience.

The Beard Awards often go to established chefs. Which young chefs in Boston are you impressed with right now?
I think Barry Maiden at Hungry Mother does a great job. It will be interesting to see how Tim Weichman grows from T.W. Food. Also, Jamie Bissonette over at Toro. I think down the road look for Barry Edelman, who's at Aquitaine now. If he gets the right kitchen, he'll definitely be a big name.

After the jump, Leviton on what he taught Barry Maiden, the Boston restaurants he loves, and more!

Continue reading "Meet Your Beard Nominees: Michael Leviton" »

Often, we gently rib the writers of our Review of the Week for everything from overt earnestness to startling turns of phrase, but this week, we just wanted to highlight an actual helpful review for Moby Dick.

Some things:

1. Everything here is fresh and organic. Moti (owner) purchases everything from Whole Foods. This may explain the pricing issue other reviewers had, but I'll pay the bit extra for good healthy food.

2. It looks like a hole in the wall. Seriously, the decor leaves much to be desired indoors and outdoors. That being said, don't judge the place on that.

3. It's GREAT food. I discovered it by accident, and I;m glad I did. It's traditional, mouth-watering, AMAZING Persian food. Not to miss!

4. Moby Dick was an old kabob house in Tehran. Now kabob houses everywhere called themselved Moby Dick in keeping with that tradiation. It's a weird name at first glance, but is a fun little story. Ask the family that owns the establishment, they're very nice and will explain it in greater detail.

It clearly enumerates the pros and cons of the restaurant and offers a fun piece of trivia to boot! Imagine that!

Restaurateurs Want More Days to Dine Alfresco [Globe]
Previously: Patio Season: Your Definitive Guide

[Photo: dsearls/Flickr]

Dustin Pedroia, current AL MVP, is starring in a new Dunkin' Donuts ad campaign. In the commercial, Pedroia faces off against a pinstriped giant (ha!) on a baseball field. Pedroia takes a sip of a Dunkies iced coffee with a shot of espresso and hits the giant with a ball, taking him down. It's pretty cute and since Pedroia, unlike, say, Rachael Ray, is a recognized Boston personality, it just might be the most Boston-centric national ad in a long time.

Dustin Pedroia Stars in Dunkin' Donuts Ads [Herald]

• Neptune Oyster or Craigie On Main? [Chowhound]

• Wanted: one non-hotel high tea. [Yelp]

• Romantic dining in Haverhill: Keon's or Evenfall? [Chowhound]

• In Fenway, must restaurants be either pretentious or uninteresting? [Yelp]

• Fat Cat or Franklin Southie: which is less crowded? [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

This week's review is for Hsin Hsin Cafe.

Whether sipping on the luxuriously scented tea, or nibbling on perfectly fried pork rice it's hard not to get lost in the alluring, enigmatic far eastern atmosphere and cuisine offered at this fine Chinese establishment. Reviewed.

That last sentence is the best. Try ending everything you do today with a verb about what you just did. Blogged.

[Photo: Collin Anderson/Flickr]

Continue reading "The MenuPages Guide To The Boston Marathon" »

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Let's all get excited for Boston's best summer dining spots! [Chowhound]

• I want to eat outside right now! [Yelp]

• Passover Coke is the reason for the season (besides, you know, actual Passover). [Chowhound]

• Getting a date is harder than you'd think in Boston! Also, finding someone to date. [Yelp]

• Macaroons: so hot right now. [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

I went to TJ's last week and got terrible service, even rude. I was made to feel very unwelcome. I am 39, have no tats, piercings, dyed hair, or dreds. I've been vegan longer than most of the workers there have been alive, and have been a Wobblie for over 25 years. Apparently, I was not cool enough to merit any respect. My 16 year old skateboarder son with piercings and tattoos went in 10 minutes later and got excellent service from the same people. This goes against the heart of vegan, anarchist, and IWW philosophies. These people need to learn that being radical is on the inside, not the outside, and that we live our ideals every day. I came here a year ago and had a very different experience - the people were engaging and offered a space for building community. Now it seems like it's a closed community of kids playing at radical politics. If all you care about is the food, it is almost as good as it used to be, but the place is cluttered. So sad to see so much potential wasted. :(

[Photo: Vegan pizza from TJ's, leslie adams/Flickr]

Get a lot of Legal Sea Foods for a little money with today's Groupon. Sign up now and get a full clam bake featuring a 1.25 lb. lobster, a cup of clam chowdah, steamers, mussels, chorizo, corn on the cob, rolls, soda, and Boston creme pie for only $28. This might be Groupon's best deal yet and it's filling up fast, so hurry up!

$28 Family-Style Clam Bake Hosted by Legal Sea Foods (51% off) [Groupon]

[Photo: wsifrancis/Flickr]

Continue reading "Patio Season: Your Definitive Calendar" »

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• The best dishes of 2009 so far include the spaghetti carbonara at Bina Osteria and Green Street 's potato leek soup. [Chowhound]

• Favorite beer? How can anyone pick just one? [Yelp]

• Or you can just be classy and get the best wine in a box. [Chowhound]

• Health food is much nicer to eat when it's delicious. [Yelp]

• The best of O Ya's excellent menu: fried oysters and hamachi with banana pepper mousse. [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

Here at MenuPages, we get hundreds of user reviews every single day. Most are legitimate people who ate at a restaurant and want to tell people how they liked it (or didn't). Some are unprintable on a family website. Some are from the non-functionally illiterate. And some reviews are from shills, folks affiliated with the restaurant (be they publicists, owners, or family members). Those ones end up in Shill Watch. Today's offender: Baja Betty's Burritos.

Here on MP: Boston, we get quite a few reviews. We do not, however, get so many that we won't notice if you leave the same review thrice in a ten minute span. This is just what Baja Betty's did last night.

Review #1: Left at 8:28pm

Great place to grab a quick bite or even hangout out with friends. They play great music and both of the guys are really friendly and accommodating Not only is the food amazing but the prices are really reasonable. Highly recommended!!

Review #2: Left at 8:32pm

This is a great place to grab a quick bite or to hang out with friends. They play great music and the guys are extremely friendly and accommodating. Not only is the food amazing but the prices are really reasonable!!

Review #3: Left at 8:37pm

This is a great place to grab a quick bite or hang out with your friends. They play great music and the guys are really friendly and accommodating. The food is really amazing and it all comes at a very reasonable price!!

Guys, this isn't how you overtake Anna's Taqueria.

This was recommended in a guide book yet when we walked in with a guide book we were second class citizens. No one EVER made eye contact with us the whole time. We were served bad food and felt very unwelcomed. Pick another restaurant.

[Photo: Seth W./Flickr]

Times are tough, but that doesn't mean you have to give up your restaurant habit. Boston's restaurants are bending over backwards to lure in budget-conscious consumers. Inspired by our New York brethren, we've created a guide to dining out every night of the week for $35 or less.

Monday
Fight Night at Sibling Rivalry is a Boston classic. Chef David Kinkead faces off against his sous chef in an Iron Chef style battle that results in a $35 three-course dinner.

Tuesday
It's Cheap Date Night at Myers + Chang, but you needn't bring your significant other - any bargain-seeking friend will do just fine. $40 (i.e. $20 each) gets you multiple menu options, featuring all the restaurant's signature dishes like tiger tears and dan dan noodles.

Wednesday
51 Lincoln probably has the most creative recession special in town. Every week, the restaurant offers a $33 three-course meal focusing on the cuisine of one state. This week, lobster bisque, a seafood boil, and a whoopie pie are on the Maine-focused menu.

Thursday
Hustle from work to Sage for their $35 three-course dinner offered from 5pm-7pm. The spaghetti carbonara is a must-have, as are the ricotta zeppole.

Friday
Hit up the ever-changing $35 three course menu at EVOO. Since an entree alone usually costs around $24, this is a pretty excellent deal. If it's on the menu, the veal in a blanket is a great value.

Saturday
dante's da Favola menu gives diners three courses (each with plenty of choices) for $35. The spaghetti a la chitarra and the hake with artichokes, clams, and meyer lemon are especially recommended.

Sunday
Head over to Rocca for two courses and a sweet for $22. With offerings like a grilled pork chop and ricotta and spinach gnocchi, it's a pretty nice way to ease out of the weekend.

[Photo: Treats from Rocca, cherrylet/Flickr]

Last night, several hundred smartly dressed people descended on the smartly appointed Liberty Hotel to gorge on that smartest of feed mammals, the pig. Cochon555, halfway through its ten-city tour, threw down the gauntlet for five local chefs (Providence is local, right?) - who among Tony Maws of Craigie On Main, Jamie Bissonnette of Toro, Matthew Jennings of Farmstead (that's the Providence entrant), Jason Bond of Beacon Hill Bistro and Joseph Margate of Clink would put forth the most pleasing porcine products?

Throughout the evening, the hot competition seemed to be between the be-tattooed Bissonnette and his surprising but welcome clean-up dish of delicately smoky pulled pork mini-sliders (served with healthy dollops of creamy cole slaw and slices of raw jalapeno left over from his banh mi upon request), and modest Maws, who churned out plate after plate of pates, charcuteries, sausages, pork belly sandwiches and the like while barely breaking a sweat. We impetuously asked both of them what they thought the "new bacon" might be; Bissonnette demurred that he's "on the ass-end of trends," and Maws replied that he merely tries to make tasty food and is "not looking to reinvent the wheel."

If anything is the new bacon, it's pure pig fat, which appeared in the form of pork belly sliders, as large chunks of charcuterie slices, and, in large bowls provided by the Johnson and Wales culinary students, mounds of whipped lard. A well-coiffed woman of a certain age pointed to a fat-smeared toast point and asked one of the students, "is it Kosher?" as apologetically as in jest. But she ate it anyway.

Bacon still reigns supreme in the novelty department, with bacon praline marshmallows (an amazing concoction from Jason Bond's fertile mind) and baconated jalapeno chocolate truffles making heavy rounds. Okay, we get it!

When the winner was finally announced, dark horse Matthew Jennings emerged victorious with his (somewhat underwhelming, we must admit) whole hog carnitas, pictured above. The judging was based on an opaque system where a professional panel including Tim and Nancy Cushman of O Ya and Barbara Lynch of No. 9 Park had 49% of the vote and we the people marshaled the other 51%. To our mind, nothing trumped Bond's flawlessly executed pork liver mousse, the single best component of the evening (even though some of his other stuff was too esoteric to please). Take that to the bank!

A whole lot of pork-y food porn after the jump.

Continue reading "The Morning After: Cochon555" »

Catering

• Formaggio Kitchen is offering a tradtional spread, including brisket, chopped liver, charoset, and macaroons. Prices range from $8.95/lb for chopped liver to $15.95 per pound for the brisket. Orders must be placed by Sunday at 4pm.

• Russo's has a wide variety of Passover options from the traditional (tzimmes, brisket) to the out of place (stuffed Cornish hen, anyone?). Weirdly, they don't have charoset. Prices start at $4.98/lb for mashed root vegetables and climb to $12.98/lb for roast turkey with balsamic root glaze. Orders must be placed by Monday at 5pm.

• Whole Foods has an incredibly comprehensive Passover menu encompassing everything from carrot kugel with dried cherries to the inevitable brisket. Prices run form $7.99/lb for vegetarian chopped liver to $20.99/lb for citrus and horseradish glazed salmon. Order by Monday at 5pm.

Restaurants

• Craigie On Main: Dinner, April 8-9. Three courses: highlights include Scottish salmon "pastrami" salad, Turkish charoset-stuffed guinea hen, and orange creme caramel. $75.

• The Metropolitan Club: Dinner, April 8-14. Three courses: highlights include chicken liver salad, veal brisket, and meringue and berry napoleon. $38.

Visiting family for the holidays? Use our network to get Passover food options in Chicago, New York, South Florida, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.

[Photo: ilovemods/Flickr]

MP: What inspired the creation of LUPEC?
MK: A few things. I'd had read about the Pittsburgh chapter years ago and had always thought it was a very cool concept...the marriage of classic cocktails, women's history and philanthropy. In January of 2007 I revisited their web site and the wheels starting turning. I personally had been trying to find a cause that I could donate time and energy to but was having a hard time deciding on one because there are so many that are so worthy. Also, due to life, work, etc I felt like I didn't have many opportunities to exchange thoughts and ideas in a group of strong women. The wheels started turning and I decided to reach out and see if there would be any women interested in starting a chapter with me.

MP: What types of women are members of the organization?
MK: All types! We come from different backgrounds and age groups. Many of us work or have worked in the hospitality industry but not all of us.

MP: What seperates LUPEC from other social clubs?
MK: The multi-faceted focus of the organization is one which you don't see very often. And we are marrying 3 topics that most people don't usually see as necessarily compatible. For us, cocktail history in many ways walks hand in hand with women's history. For example, proper women would not have been seen in a bar prior to Prohibition. Prohibition was the great equalizer as far as the barroom was concerned. And I think in order to properly support our fellow broads today we need to have a clear understanding of how we arrived at this point in time.

MP: What are some of LUPEC Boston's favorite locations to have a cocktail?
MK: Drink, Eastern Standard, Craigie On Main, Rendezvous, Green Street , Toro, Tremont 647

MP: Any word on whether a LUPEC book will be coming out soon?
MK: Well we already have printed 2 editions of our Little Black Book of Cocktails, the proceeds from which have thus far benefitted the Friends Boutique at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute and the Women's Wing of the New England Center for Homeless Veterans. And hopefully there will be continued interest so we can continue publishing and selling in for worthwhile causes.

[Photo: LUPEC]

• Where can you find whole wheat pita? Maybe nowhere. [Chowhound]

• Why isn't there horchata in Boston? There is! At Anna's Taqueria. [Yelp]

• Where can you get Maine shrimp? Where can't you get Maine shrimp? [Chowhound]

• Actual Yelp question: "Its the spring again! which means i can find myself a new lover! if you know anything about me, you'd know that i date by the seasons! basically, if in three months i don't think its going anywhere, i'm out. haha. oh well. Anyway, so in honor of the spring and the waitress, i need to make a Lover's Pie. And this is where I need your help! What should be in this pie?" Tears. [Yelp]

• Fresh kaffir lime leaves are best purchased in Revere. [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

Because if your wife says your assessment of some women based solely on their physical features is fine, it must be true! From a review for a Cambridge restaurant that shall remain nameless:

My party of four arrived at 8.30 pm for an 8.30 reservation. The hostess - an ugly disinterested troll - made us wait for 20 minutes in a dark crowded hallway where people were pushing past us to go to the washroom. A second hostess - a younger bimbo with no qualifications other than a big rack - told us that our table would be another 10 - 15 minutes. No apologies or explanation. We were treated like dirt.

(For those readers who think the previous paragraph is sexist, all I can say is that my wife concurs with this assessment of the appearance and behavior of the hostesses.)

Related: this dude's gay friends totally think that joke is hilarious! Why are you so uptight?

Here at MenuPages, we get hundreds of user reviews every single day. Most are legitimate people who ate at a restaurant and want to tell people how they liked it (or didn't). Some are unprintable on a family website. Some are from the non-functionally illiterate. And some reviews are from shills, folks affiliated with the restaurant (be they publicists, owners, or family members). Those ones end up in Anatomy Of A Shill. Today's offender: Taranta Cucina Meridonale

One of the most unique restaurants in Boston[1] featuring the cuisine of chef/owner Jose Duarte[2]. He combines his expertise in Peruvian and Italian cooking to create unusual dishes that may include veges that you wont find anywhere else in Boston. The Pasta dishes we had were all delicious. The hit of our evening was the Brined double cut pork chop with a sugar cane rocoto pepper glaze served with a saute of giant Peruvian corn, spinach and carmalized onions and yucca piatella[3].[4]

1) This is not a good start. Taranta's cuisine is unique, but the odds that a real person would lead with this are slim to nil.

2) Jose Duarte is a great chef, but he's not a big enough celebrity to have his name mentioned by an ordinary diner. Furthermore, most typical diners don't know whether someone is a chef/owner or just a chef.

3) Here is how a non-shill would describe this dish: "the double cut pork chop with corn, spinach, onions, and yucca." Only shills type dishes directly from the menu.

4) This exact review was left twice, word for word, in a one hour period. Guys, we get a fair amount of reviews in Boston, but we don't get that many. Please stop insulting our intelligence.

Continue reading "Restaurant Week For Slackers" »

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Is there room for 10-15 people in the bar at Craigie On Main? No. No, there is not. [Chowhound]

• Can you get clam chowder in a bread bowl at non-tourist traps? Nope! [Yelp]

• Why is there so much pork belly on Restaurant Week menus? Maybe because it's been a huge trend for nigh on three years. [Chowhound]

• Is Boston a good donut city? Heck yeah it is! [Yelp]

• Is the Boston Marathon a good time to sample the best of Boston? Are you really asking? [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

Initially, this review for a Brighton restaurant that shall remain nameless didn't strike us as especially odd. Angry, but not odd. And then we made it to the last sentence. Oh HELL no. No he did not just say that! We were angry for a good long time and now you can be too.

This was the most disgusting food I have ever tasted.. I got the pulled pork sandwich which looked and tasted like cat food and the steak and pepper sub which had no taste what so ever... I'm a 45 year old man who has owned and managed many restaurants in the past and I am embarrassed to say that I even went in.. I knew it looked horrible from the outside. So please, save your money and health and don't go here! Move to NY 'cause Boston just sucks on every level.

• Poulet might be located in the Pru food court, but it's a cut above the average mall fare. A whole chicken will run you less than ten bucks and three sides can be added for an additional seven.

• Peruvian roast chicken is almost uniformly perfect: great texture, excellent spicing. See for yourself with a bird from Rincon Limeno.

• Though Shawarma King does make Boston's best shawarma, as the name implies, they also do a damn fine rotisserie chicken. While you're there, grab a few pitas and some hummus to serve your chicken like a sandwich.

[Photo: stu_spivack/Flickr]

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Love: cheap eats. [Yelp]

• Hate: Vintage in Westie. [Chowhound]

• Love: bangers and mash. [Chowhound]

• Hate: The Kells and Revolution Rock Bar, among many, many other bars. [Yelp]

• Love and hate: internet food delivery services. [Yelp]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

[Photo: pshab/Flickr]

Continue reading "Poking Around Facebook - Boston Chefs Are Everywhere" »

Not to hate on Rachael Ray, but we all actually kind of miss the "Time to make the donuts" television commercials of Dunkin' Donuts yesteryear. And while the era of those commercials may have passed, the era of the donut has not. The Globe reports that Dunkin' Donuts recently introduced a contest that will award the designer of a new doughnut $12,000. Oh, and the chance to see their doughnut sold in stores.

Running through April 7th, the company states that the new doughnut will give people hope and inspiration during this financial deadlock. That's right, a frosted sugar-bagel will invigorate the masses to hold hands in harmony. And speaking of the nutritional value of said sugar bagel, we're thinking that Dunkin's executives are probably hoping the contest invigorates not only the harmonious nature of the American people, but also the lagging sales of their baked goods. And they are, in fact, lagging. One online commenter stated, "The reason donuts are only 13% of their revenue is because their donuts are awful." Ouch. Another commenter offered some useful advice: "Here's an idea. Make a donut that tastes like it wasn't made 3 days ago." Now maybe that will invigorate those lagging sales.

Dunkin' invites fans to create its next donut [Boston Globe]

[Photo: Fist Full of Talent]

For this week's wonderful-yet-unpublishable review, we go back a few weeks to a colder, darker time: late January in Chicago. The nights fell early, the snow fell often, and restaurant workers suffering a dip in their income and morale due to the nation's collective holiday hangover, fell for each other.

Or at least that's what one would-be reviewer would have you believe, though we doubt this particular tale. For one thing, nobody's desperate/forgetful enough to do this right in the window. For another, this reviewer, who happens to know the name of the two employees and the identity of the owner, is about 99.9 percent certainly a disgruntled ex-employee of the soul food restaurant that will go unnamed:

[Name redacted], Chicago, 1/30/09
I'm no longer going to this place due to the fact that while walking to work one night I pass by the restaraunt to find the cook (name redacted) having sex with the girl at the front counter (name redacted), right in the kitchen. Huge store window and they were right there. Thats nasty and i wouldnt recommend this place to anyone. Also, they customers and boss are rude and disrespectful. Beware.

Groupon [Official Site]

We're coming out of our weekend/vacation hiding to remind you that Winter Restaurant Week 2009 starts today and runs through Friday, then again next Sunday through Friday. We want to hear your stories: the good, the bad, and the delicious. Send them our way and they could wind up on this very site!

• One of the area's best non-bakery pies can be found at EVOO in the form of their bourbon pecan pie. Remember kids, bourbon always makes it better.

• Petsi Pies carries a wide variety of both sweet and savory pies. Since most of the savory pies are tarts and it's not Tart Day, get one of the sweet options, preferably the four berry.

• Seven words that will change your life: chocolate peanut butter pie from S&S Restaurant. Want three more? Oreo cookie pie. It's real, it's served a la mode, and it's happening in Inman Square.

• Tatte Fine Cookies & Cakes offers an astonishing thirteen types of sweet pies, all served on excellently buttery crusts. Go for the hazelnut pie, mixed with a generous amount of caramel.

EVOO [Official Site]
Petsi Pies [Official Site]
S&S Restaurant [Official Site]
Tatte Fine Cookies & Cakes [Official Site]

[Photo: sarako/Flickr]

This week's Review Of The Week comes, once more, from New York. Why do we keep looking to the Big Apple for fodder here? Because it is crazy full of restaurants and people reviewing them on MenuPages. Also because it is crazy.

However, this review, for Wai Lee, holds the distinction of not only being our favorite review to read this week, but also one that we could actually run (it was on point, involved no libel, and actually delivered useful information about the restaurant). Also, it is way funny:

When the delivery man shouted "Chinese food! Open the door!" into my cell phone (the building's intercom system is dead-- maybe this guy's been here before), I felt like he must be bring us something so special and urgently delicious that anything less than my running down five flights of stairs would have been irresponsible to him, me, and my date.

His curt bow of thanks reinforced my feeling that this would be a
no-nonsense meal; the MSG-laden fumes emanating from the plastic bag told me that we could be expect to be pummeled by fists of flavor. Wai Lee was rated 4/5 for value on Menupages yet only $/$$$$ for price, and had a solid 18 reviews. (Note: many reviews doesn't necessitate popularity. The notorious Saigon Grill has been reviewed 127 times, mostly due to its dodgy treatment of deliverypeople). So here’s my attempt quantify and come to a verdict.

Plusses
+ Guy who answers phone speaks great English. Just as important, he's a terrific listener. His laser-like focus on your every order is
undeterred by pots and pans crashing in the background. He makes you feel like you are the only person in his world. He's a Chinese Bill Clinton.
+ Free can of Coke. I don't even like Coke, but come on people, it's
free. Too bad I forgot that Coke + rice = tsunami for your stomach.
+ "Bean curd" not euphemistically, Americanistically referred to as
"tofu," which sounds like a martial art performed only with the tips
of the feet.

Minuses
- No chopsticks. Though I rarely use these ancient implements, their
absence was disappointing on a spiritual level, kind of like going to
the East Village and not seeing any mohawks. Also, how much does bamboo even cost? I recently saw a PBS special on bamboo (I've had many lonely Saturday nights), showing how bamboo grows so quickly and plentifully in Southeast Asia that the field rats feeding off it and breed at algorithmic rates--you can actually hear them break the sound barrier when they mate en masse-- can't quite keep up with the
newly-sprouting shoots of bamboo.
- No fortune cookie. I'm all about cutting back the frills in today's
economy, but again, how costly could this flour-water-sugar treat be? I saw an episode of NOVA on fortune cookies the other night and--just kidding. Thus not knowing my fortune, I cannot say whether it's in my future to order from Wai Lee again, whether or not my hearing ever comes back.

Wai Lee [MenuPages]

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Someone is just now learning about the unbelievable shepherd's pie at The Druid. [Chowhound]

• Good luck with your "Yelpers should be compensated" campaign there, buddy. [Yelp]

• WhoaMG, have you tried the French toast at Beehive? [Chowhound]

• Could an outdoor food court save Downtown Crossing? Isn't that sort of what Downtown Crossing is already? [Yelp]

• Pearl-clutching over the "tasteless" food at Frank's Steakhouse. [Chowhound]

Perhaps we're tipping our hand too much in telling you we can see the IP addresses of those who leave us user reviews. That usually doesn't mean much, except in the case of this week's Review Of The Week, which are actually two that we're pretty sure was left by a disgruntled employee and her boyfriend.

Either that, or one employee at New York's City Gourmet has an extremely dedicated fan base who all live in the same house.

3/2/09 10:27pm from user "Sam"

I just can't take it anymore. I used to eat there in the morning before work. The people who work there just make you want to go somewhere else. It used to be this real sweet girl who used to work there and even she left. I think it time for me to move on also.

10:32pm from user "Tina" -- same IP address as Sam above

But it could be awhole lot better. I know the girl your talking about. I think they called her Zee. Yea she was real sweet and good to talk to. I don't know what happen to her. I think they let her go. But anyhow I missed the loved she used to bring to the store. Now it seem cold and it this guy whole works there who think he knows it all. always take my order wrong.

City Gourmet [MenuPages]

Ever since starting the MenuPages Boston Twitter, we've been pretty into Twitter in general and we're not the only Boston food folks who are! We've discovered a host of other Boston bloggers, chefs, and traditional media outlets on the micro-blogging service. If you're looking to get started on Twitter, we have a pretty good list of people to follow after the jump. Think we haven't discovered your Twitter yet? Let us know!

Continue reading "The MenuPages Guide To The Best Boston Food Twitters" »

• Beauty's

• Bostone Pizza

• Hana Sushi

• Inbound Pizza

• Kwik-E Pizza & Sub Shop

• New Shanghai Restaurant

• Same Old Place

• Samurai Kuang Eatery

• Seiyo

• S&I Thai

[Photo: Brianmoc/Flickr]

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• Why are your sandwich recommendations so terrible? [Chowhound]

• Where can I find king cake to prepare my stomach for the massive amount of alcohol I'm going to consume tonight? [Yelp]

• Is there any reason to go to Hong Kong besides drinking? [Chowhound]

• Why won't hot women talk to me? [Yelp]

• Can I bring my screaming toddlers to brunch at Craigie On Main? [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

In this week's Review Of The Week, we're heading back to New York to check in with a patron who had a bit of a tangle with the law. The natural place to seek justice when the boys in blue do you wrong? MenuPages' reviews, of course. Here's what we just couldn't print in our user reviews:

I went to [restaurant name redacted] with a large group. Unfortunately a member of my group got into a disagreement with another patron. Both parties share fault for this.

After the situation was addressed, management called the police to have the member of my group escorted off the premises. The other individual, who clearly misbehaved, was allowed to stay.

There was no need to escalate the situation in this manner.

The food is good. The service is good. But I plan to stay away.

[Photo: Via Lorri37/flickr]

If you're nursing a hangover today, giving up booze for Lent might sound like the best decision you've ever made. Sooner or later though, you're going to want a delicious mixed drink. Though the phrase "mocktail" is reminiscent of nothing so much as awkward first year orientations in college, Boston bars make some damn fine alcohol-free cocktails. Bonus: they're cheaper than their spiked counterparts.

• 28 Degrees offers several mocktails. We're partial to the Fresh Fruit-ade: ginger ale, lime, and mint. It makes a solid mojito substitute on nights when you're too dehydrated to imbibe.

• The justly lauded bartenders at Eastern Standard put just as much care into their non-alcoholic concoctions as they do into the rest of the cocktail list. Don't miss the Sophisticated Lady with cranberry and refreshing cucumber.

28 Degrees [MenuPages]
28 Degrees [Official Site]
Eastern Standard [MenuPages]
Eastern Standard [Official Site]

[Photo: Epicurious]

• Buddha's Delight has been turning out solid vegetarian Chinese for years. Devotees swear the tofu stir-fry is the best in town and the leek dumplings ought not to be missed.

• Want to take things up a notch? At Grezzo, not only is all the food vegan, but it's raw, too. Maybe the gnocchi carbonara (made with "creamy rawmesan", obvs) won't make it on to the list of your favorite-ever dishes, but it's sure worth a try.

• We're still mad that TJ Scallywaggle's changed its name to the substantially less awesome T.J.'s House Of Vegan Pizza, but the buffalo nugget sub is still worth a trip.

Buddha's Delight [MenuPages]
Grezzo [MenuPages]
Grezzo [Official Site]
T.J.'s House Of Vegan Pizza [MenuPages]
T.J.'s House Of Vegan Pizza [Official Site]

[Photo: One of Buddha's many delights, Flickr/Walter Parenteau]

Here at MenuPages, we get hundreds of user reviews every single day. Most are legitimate people who ate at a restaurant and want to tell people how they liked it (or didn't). Some are unprintable on a family website. Some are from the non-functionally illiterate. And some reviews are from shills, folks affiliated with the restaurant (be they publicists, owners, or family members). Those ones end up in Anatomy Of A Shill. Today's offender: Panza.

I recently had sinner at this new Hanover Street spot and was blown away [1] by just how great my meal was. Not that the North End needed another restaurant, but this inexpensive gem is just what was lacking in the North End.[2]

The food was delicious and the wine was ridiculously cheap. Wow - $20 for a great bottle of wine.[3]

Hanover Street is littered with high price, designer Italian restaurants. But what Panza offers is good, traditional Italian food that doesn't require a second mortgage to pay for it.[4]

I had the Veal Saltimboca[5] and it was fork tender and very flavorful. The grilled vegetables that accompanied my meal were perfect.

Soon enough, this place will have the same long line that Giacomo's does, but you know what...it's worth waiting in line for.[6]

1) There is no phrase more indicative of the presence of a shill than "blown away." None. This phrase is, in and of itself, not quite enough to convince us that we are in the presence of a shill, but it's a solid first step.

2) I'm sorry, what neighborhood is this in? Maybe you could remind me by using it twice in one sentence!

3) Here's a handy tip: while specific unfavorable mentions of prices are always disgruntled customers, specific favorable prices are almost always shills.

4) HEY DID YOU NOTICE IT'S CHEAP? (To be fair, Panza's prices are relatively reasonable, but this is overkill.)

5) Capitalized mentions of specific dishes are never a good sign.

6) The cherry on top: a "subtle" dig at a competitor.

• Equal Exchange
• Panza
• Sensing
• Ufood Grill

Think we're missing a menu? Let us know.

[Photo: Selections from Sensing, Fairmont Battery Wharf]

• Bina Osteria may be a relative newcomer to the Boston dining scene, but the pancetta-laced spaghetti carbonara has already won a cult following. For extra piggy decadence, get the pasta as a first course and the crispy suckling pig confit as your main.

• Indulge in a porky dim sum feast at Gitlo, where you can order everything from pork chop noodle soup to pork buns. The can't-miss dish for the true pig enthusiast, however, has to be the deep-fried bacon-wrapped shrimp paste.

• Listen, if you're indulging pre-Lent, go big or go home, you know? You can't go much bigger than the whole pig's head served at Estragon, the eating of which is depicted in the video above. Go ahead. Order it. You know you want to.

Bina Osteria [Official Site]
Gitlo [MenuPages]
Estragon [Official Site]

[Video: CarolynGrantham/YouTube]

• EVOO's chocolate truffle cake harkens pleasantly back to days spent around the campfire eating s'mores. The cake's center is gooey and it's topped with a toasted marshmallow cream. All that's missing is the graham crackers.

• LA Burdick makes the best European-style hot chocolate in Massachusetts. Period. So rich and thick, it will leave you satisfied until nigh on Easter.

• Sportello's dense chocolate budino is topped with extra-virgin olive oil and sea salt, resulting in a complex flavor that's perfect for an adult Fat Tuesday.

EVOO [Official Site]
LA Burdick [Official Site]
Sportello [Official Site]

[Photo: Lorraine DiSabato/Flickr]

• Want a beer? Doyle's has 21 on tap and dozens more by the bottle. Bonus: unlike other Boston beer snob bars, Doyle's is filled with locals instead of college kids. We guarantee plenty of people here will be getting ready for Lent.

• Craving cocktails? Make a beeline for Parish Cafe where you can get soused on everything from killer martinis to an incredibly addictive vodka-spiked raspberry iced tea.

• There are few better places in Boston to drink wine than Via Matta. Even though the opening of the restaurant's legendary patio is still months away, it's still a thrill to down a few glasses in the enoteca, one of the Hub's sexiest rooms.

Doyle's [Official Site]
Parish Cafe [Official Site]
Via Matta [Official Site]

[Photo: Doyle's, stevegarfield/Flickr]

We recently read about O.N.C.E. (One Night Culinary Events) via the Leather District Gourmet, a dynamo of a woman whom we met at Sandrine's Bistro last month. Her take on positives (gathering with fellow foodies!) and negatives (no health code inspections) is spot on. Not that you should worry about any health code violations, seeing as passing the tests doesn't stop the mice from tormenting us at X restaurant. The menu for the March 1st O.N.C.E. looks pretty tantalizing, and at $50 per person, it's a reasonable meal in comparison to most Boston restaurants. The link to read more and sign up is below, so hop on the train quick because we're guessing it will fill up pretty fast.

Cuisine en Locale [Official Site]

[Photo: Cuisine en Locale]

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• No one knows what's up with the Chinatown Ginza. [Chowhound]

• Someone hasn't heard about the glorious wonderland that is the South Street Diner! [Yelp]

• It's time for your annual "The Upper Crust is going downhill" thread. [Chowhound]

• Someone has it in for The Kells. [Yelp]

• Great Bay's butterscotch pudding is much missed. [Chowhound]

[Photo: rachel_r/Flickr]

This week's winner, from The Orchard, in New York, got denied because it is not about the restaurant at all, but rather about the reviewer's date. We have a feeling there won't be a second date with these two. Here's what one party had to say:

Took a date to this restaurant. She was totally flummoxed by not recognizing anything on the menu as Italian food.i still can't make up my mind if it was her lack of culinary knowledge or Anorexia.

The Orchard [MenuPages]
The Orchard [Official Site]

The main event will hit Cambridge on March 14th at the elegant Charles Hotel. The big guns of champagne will be there to put a little spring in your step, but lesser-known brands will also be on hand. During a reception of champagne and caviar, some of Boston's most promising chefs will in the building to make sure there's something besides champagne in your stomach. As live jazz keeps the hotel buzzing, a fin de soiree will take place at noted jazz club Regattabar on the hotel's third floor for VIP ticket holders, where a dessert and chocolate buffet will close the evening's events. While this looks like quite the decadent evening of luxury amidst a current economic meltdown, it's important to remember that the money raised for the event, and during the silent auction, will go towards supporting those in the Boston area who must choose between heating their homes and filling their kitchen shelves this winter. With these facts at hand, it sounds as if the Tour de Champagne will be quite the tour de force on March 14th.

Tour de Champagne Boston [Official Site]

[Photo: Bunrab]

Monday is President's Day and what better way to celebrate the long weekend than with a meal at a Boston restaurant that's hosted a president? We found three for your civically-inclined eating pleasure.

• JFK was a regular at Locke-Ober - so much so that the restaurant named its lobster stew after him! Locke-Ober is facing tough times (the restaurant recently had to stop serving lunch after over 100 years of doing so), but it's still one of the grandest rooms in the city.

• Ciao Bella counts Bill Clinton among its many past celebrity customers. According to a former host, Clinton enjoyed the restaurant's veal chop.

• Current President Barack Obama lived in Cambridge for three years while at Harvard Law, but information about his favorite restaurants at the time is oddly hard to find! Fortunately, the Herald is on the case. Apparently, the Commander-in-Chief quite enjoyed the Border Cafe. So next time you're watching fratty dudes downing margaritas, remember: one of them could become the leader of the free world.

Locke-Ober [Official Site]
Ciao Bella [Official Site]
Border Cafe [Official Site]

[Photo: jilliancyork/Flickr]

Continue reading "Valentine's Day For Slackers" »

If there's one thing Bostonians love more than eating, it's obsessively dissecting their meals on the internet. Let's take a look at what the Chowhounds and Yelpers were up to this week, shall we?

• This question was seriously posed: "Say a date goes sour, very well or somewhere in between. Should this impact your review? " [Yelp]

• Toasted ravioli: not readily available in the Hub and also, not actually toasted. [Yelp]

• 9 Tastes is too sweet! [Chowhound]

• Drink's food is not good and there's not enough of it! [Chowhound]

• A discussion about the best burrito chain in Boston doesn't mention Anna's Taqueria until the fifth message. Blasphemy. [Yelp]

[Photo: Get it? It's a hound yelping! rachel_r/Flickr]

Yesterday, we gave you our lunch picks for Winter Restaurant Week 2009. Today, dinner!

• Mare serves some of the best Italian in the North End and it's all organic. Restaurant Week is an ideal time to try their simple dishes: crab cakes, wild mushroom spaghettoni with truffle essence, and lovely gelato.

• Rather than focusing on the dreary doldrums of winter, UpStairs on the Square's menu is mindful that spring is just around the corner, with dishes like the "almost spring" vegetable, escarole, and cranberry bean soup, peppered sirloin with pea shoots, and a berry-festooned bread pudding. T-shirt weather seems closer already.

• T.W. Food's elegant, experimental dishes are nicely highlighted in their special menu. Go for the Macomber turnip soup with apple cinnamon cream (!) and citrus flan (!!) and the luxurious barley risotto topped with a seventy minute poached egg (!!!).

• Neither Bina Osteria nor No. 9 Park have their menus up yet, but based on their normal price (where a dinner costs far more than $33), we suspect they will be Good Deals.

Boston Restaurant Week [(Un)Official Site]

[Photo: Paul Keleher/Flickr]

Business is apparently "flat" for the Aquitaine Group, Inc., which includes South End spots Gaslight, Union Bar & Grille, and (surprise) Aquitaine. Ditto for Washington Street hotspot Stella, whose owner and chef Evan Deluty is attempting to deal with the staggering pace of diners. His method of dealing with the downturn? Creating inventive discount nights, such as charging half-price for a bottle of wine on Monday evenings. And Deluty isn't alone in the Battle for Luxury. The previously mentioned Union Bar & Grille is offering $6 cocktails Monday through Thursday evenings from 5-7:30PM in an effort to lure in the happy hour crowd. Buzz is that chef Stephen Sherman will also be serving complimentary appetizers to the masses of overworked and underpaid Bostonians who drop by. Already been pink-slipped at your job? Don't worry. We have a feeling you'll still get served.

Affordable Menus a Hit with Patrons [Boston Business Journal]

[Photo: Market Oracle]

It's nearly impossible to go without noticing the media blitz when a new drink arrives at Starbucks (Remember this summer's Vivanno smoothie?) So with all the advertising for the new tea lattes, we decided to check out what these infusions are all about. Made with Tazo Tea in a partnership that probably prompted the tea company to begin diving into vaults of solid gold coins like Scrooge McDuck, the drinks are a delicious nod to various tea drinking cultures.

Sample the Vanilla Rooibos latte for a flavor of South American red tea infused with cinnamon, vanilla, and of course, the vital steamed milk and foam. For a taste of Britain the London Fog latte mixes English staple Earl Grey tea with Italian bergamot, vanilla, and lavender. Stronger options include Tazo black tea concoctions if you're in the mood for some caffeinated serenity; another mixes berry juices and Chai for a fruitier flavor. We're pretty big fans all around of the beverages, but of course anything purchased in the house of Starbucks isn't going to come oh so cheaply. Each beverage retails for the same high prices as other steamed milk drinks, so expect to pony up a few bucks to achieve that trademark Tazo serenity.

Starbucks [Official Site]

[Photo: Starbucks]

Restaurant Week is upon us again. This year's winter edition will take place from March 15-20 and 22-27. Reservations are open now to American Express cardholders, but the rest of us plebes will have to wait until February 22. There are over 200 restaurants participating this year, but we've narrowed the top picks down to six: three for lunch and three for dinner. We'll fill you in on dinner tomorrow, but today: lunch.

• Jason Bond's refined French fare at Beacon Hill Bistro is rightly acclaimed and his Restaurant Week menu doesn't skimp on the luxury. Start with the duck liver mousse before feasting on locally-caught skate wing on the bone and quince custard creme caramel. Not too shabby for $20.

• Radius knows just what we want in the middle of a Boston winter: hot soups like a cauliflower veloute, slow-roasted pork, and pineapple-bananas foster with warm rum syrup.

• Tremont 647's Andy Husbands offers one of the largest selections on his Restaurant Week menus. For maximum deliciousness, don't miss the duck and foie gras pate, the fried chicken po' boy, and the dark chocolate bread pudding.

Boston Restaurant Week [(Un)Official Site]
Beacon Hill Bistro [Official Site]
Radius [Official Site]
Tremont 647 [Official Site]

[Photo: The view from Beacon Hill Bistro, TR4NSLATOR/Flickr]

The North End's Grezzo is growing in popularity due to its entirely Vegan menu, but chunky stews aren't something you necessarily associate with vegan culture. However, Grezzo offers a winter melon stew, made with Santa Claus melon (ooh, how wintry!), mango, fresh lavender, and cardamom with thai noodles. While it may sound a little bit more like an herb garden than a stew, we've heard vegans and carnivores alike enjoy this dish.

If you're looking for a more traditional stew, we suggest Italian classic cioppino, a fish stew traditionally made with the catch of the day. Boston power-chain Legal Sea Foodsoffers a hearty cioppino, combining lobster, scallops, shrimp, calamari, littlenecks, mussels and scrod in tomato broth. There's nothing like a hearty meal during the bone chilling Boston winter, so head on over to Legal Sea Foods and feel free to stir it up.

Atlantic Fish Company [Official Site]
Grezzo Restaurant [Official Site]
Legal Sea Foods [Official Site]

[Photo: My Recipes]

His Mark Is Zorro [Boston Globe]
Zorro Chocolates [Official Site]
Taza Chocolate [Official Site]
Aroa Fine Chocolate [MenuPages]
ChocoLee Chocolates [Official Site]

[Photo: ChocoLee Chocolates]

Welcome to High Five, a new feature where we let you in on some of the most popular restaurant listings on MenuPages in the past month, as determined by what you (yes you!) click on. Today: the five most-clicked high-end Italian restaurants.

Our computer has made various "bleep bleep boop" sounds and spit out a list of the five most popular high-end Italian restaurants here on MenuPages. Spoiler alert: there's a surprise entry!

5) Limoncello Ristorante: Color us shocked! Not only have we personally been to Limoncello, but we don't believe we've ever heard anything about it one way or the other. Is this a secret standby for a bulk of MP users? Should we try it?

4) Eclano: Are people being lured in by the $25 three-course neighborhood nights on Mondays-Wednesdays? They are a rather good deal.

3) Benatti: For every one person who complains about the price, there are three that claim that Andrea Benatti's elegant food is worth every penny.

2) Sorellina: Columbus Restaurant Group has a charmed touch and Sorellina's pasta menu smartly offers smaller portions at smaller price points: a smart choice in this economy.

And the number one high-end Italian restaurant in Boston is....

1) Prezza: Three words: egg yolk ravioli.

[Photo: Limoncello]

Welcome to High Five, a new feature where we let you in on some of the most popular restaurant listings on MenuPages in the past month, as determined by what you (yes you!) click on. Today: the top five overall.

Our magic statistical machine (read: computer application) has been tabulating the results, and we've found the definitive top five most popular restaurant listings on MenuPages from the month of January. Are you ready? Can you feel the excitement? Letterman style, here they are.

5) Bonfire

4) Takemura

3) Figs

2) Pepper Sky's

And the number one most popular restaurant listing in January 2009 was....drumroll please...

1) House of Siam

There you have it: last month, the residents of our fair city were really, really into Thai food.

[Photo: Info Barrel]

Back when I started writing for MenuPages Boston, I mentioned that I was always on the lookout for Scandinavian cuisine in Boston. Well, turns out I did one better: I fell in love with a Dane and relocated to Copenhagen. In the midst of an economic meltdown, a gal will take a comfortable out when it's offered.

Leaving Boston is rough, because as a vegetarian/transitioning vegan, life in Denmark does not make my dietary choices any easier. Folks in the Nordic states love their pork, herring, and dairy (well, except the lactose-intolerant Finns). They also seem to think a vegetarian eats fish. So, we've got some challenges ahead.

While I made Boston home during grad school and will miss my friends and comfortable stomping grounds of the last several years, I will also really miss the food. I'll miss the amazing takeout from Genki Ya that got me over the hump of thesis writing. I'll miss the cheap, filling dinners at YoMa and dessert at Wheeler's. I'll miss coffee at Herrell's Renaissance Cafe and late night veggie dogs at Spike's Junkyard Dogs. I'll even miss the loud, disarming chaos of The Otherside Cafe. In fact, I may miss it most of all. Now that I'm living in the land of most bicycles per capita, I miss their vegan BLT and vanilla rooibos tea that would give me enough energy to ride from A to B.

As travel is often necessary for the business and activism my partner and I do, we'll be back soon, ready to scope of the Myers + Chang specials and new Mexican joints around town. But as of today, my run with MP comes to an end. Thanks to everyone who made this leg of the journey so fun, and take care of our city until we can afford to move back. As we say in Copenhagen, farvel!

[Photo: Larsz/Flickr]

BU students can get - and are! - excited about Crispy Crepes Cafe, a delightful little spot that, in addition to their flaky goodies, offers an assortment of pastas and salads. Open Monday to Thursday mornings at 8am, it sure beats a Jamba Juice on the way to class. Get something filling that will last more than an hour, especially if it comes slathered in Nutella. Lunch on the go has also never been easier - chicken with pesto hits the spot. Their crispy pockets are crammed full of whatever fillings you choose, and if you really can't decide, they'll handle a special order with no hassle. We even dig their paninis.

Harvard Square's La Creperie isn't much to look at, and their name change from Arrow Street still confuses us, but their crepes are dynamite. Vegetarian crepe Eiffel Tower brings together the best of France and the US, with eggs, spinach, plum tomatoes, and mozzarella. They only take cash and Harvard Crimson "cash", but bonus - ask for a student discount on any menu item that doesn't have a star next to it. Sweet, right? Yeah, or savory too. Whatever you prefer.

Crispy Crepes Cafe [MenuPages]
Crispy Crepes Cafe [Official Site]
Jamba Juice [Official Site]
La Creperie [MenuPages]
La Creperie [Official Site]

[Photo: reivax/Flickr]

So tomatoes and tomato juice are a touchy subject for us, but in an amazing turn of events, we happen to love Luvli Juices. We're keen on supporting local entrepreneurs, especially purveyors of fine drinkables, but as is the nature of our relationship with juiced veggies, we were skeptical. Of course, the Luvli folks long ago reached the same conclusion we did upon taking our first tentative sip: they figured out how to bottle gazpacho, minus the chunks and sometimes bitter aftertaste. Soon, we were throwing this healthy nectar back like an Allston hipster with a can of PBR. We didn't even miss a celery stick as garnish.

Once upon a brunch event at Savenor's, we had the good fortune to shake hands with the owner, who was down to earth and mad cool to boot. He and his Boston-based team have managed to make healthy and delicious tomato and carrot juices for haters like us?  Too cool for school. In the best way possible. And we told him so. Now that they've released a beet juice onto the market, stand back. This mental stimulation in a bottle puts the pomegranate craze to shame. Go get some in Whole Foods or direct from their website before they run out.

Luvli Juices, Inc. [Official Site]

[Photo: The Ewan/Flickr]

If you live out in the Allston Brighton area, then you're probably familiar with the football obsessed bar and restaurant the Sports Depot. Almost next to the Cambridge border, this place has more plasma TVs than Circuit City, and the Super Bowl day event is supposed to be lots of fun. Also, if you get the munchies after downing one too many Budweisers, the menu is stocked full of the typical bar food that will satisfy your cravings.

The Fenway is home to some of the most athletically influenced drinking holes known to man. It's also home to some of the most drunken men under the influence, so if you're not looking for a crapshow, avoid the area. If you're a fan, so be it. Getting into the Cask 'n Flagon is always hard on game days, but it's clean and the bar isn't just a pit of beer in solo cups. However if it's too packed to even walk in the door, try shuffling down the street a little bit more to the Baseball Tavern. Yes, we realize it's the wrong sport, but nobody really CARES. They celebrate all sports in general, and it will surely be broadcasting the Bowl with lots of intoxicated guests.

Mosey even farther downtown, and stop over to what used to be the Foggy Goggle. That place was so depressing, you really did have to drink yourself into a fog to have a good time. Luckily, it's been reinvented as McGreevy's, an Irish sports pub that make sure to feature lots of hot girls in tight Boston sports jerseys on its website.

If you're on a bar crawl, or just headed even farther into downtown Boston, there are many sports bars filled with drunk guys ready to fight, if that's what you're looking for. A prime stop along the alcoholic roadtrip of football is The Greatest Bar. In all reality, it is not the greatest bar. Yet sadly that doesn't stop us from repeatedly showing up there with our friends on the weekend demanding to get into the DJ booth to chat with whatever ex-Real World cast member is spinning that night. There's multiple floors and tons of televisions for watching the game. So no matter what neighborhood you live in, get ready to score (a touchdown, that is) this Superbowl Sunday.

[Photo: Pro.Corbis]

Going back to class after winter break sucks. We've never seen college kids move so slowly (nor have our feet ever dragged quite so much either). We'd almost gone into hibernation, and then, suddenly, presentations are assigned and papers are due. We seem to catch every bug that goes around, so when in need of relief, we look for hot Thai soups and noodles to get us through until spring.

Berklee students are in luck: Pho Basil (formerly Tom Yum Cafe) is the friendliest place we have ever been. On a recent visit, our server was actually so nice, she started to freak us out when she introduced herself, shook our hands, and told us that we looked nice. The heaping plate of pad Thai that came out after her was icing on the cake - especially for only $8.

Emerson kids have long headed over to Beacon Hill's King & I, where mango fried rice is the best thing on the menu. The space can feel slightly upscale, but then, so can the neighborhood. You shouldn't let this deter you from trying their drunken noodle.

While the Fenway location closed, we remain relieved that Brown Sugar Cafe on Comm Ave. keeps kicking. BU students seem particularly pleased, as they've long been lining up for a view of the fish tanks and vegan fried rice plates.

And while it's a short train ride from their stomping ground, Boston College students are known to head to Bamboo for the Thai iced tea and spring roll needs. With a solid takeout business to support their beautiful dine-in experience, this is one hell of a classy neighborhood joint. When in Brighton, eat like the BC youth.

Pho Basil [Official Site]
King & I [Official Site]
Brown Sugar Cafe [Official Site]
Bamboo Thai Restaurant [Official Site]

[Photo: AZAdam/Flickr]

So whatever it is this year, we have it. Symptoms include runny noses and foreheads that feel like bricklayers are working hard to build something in there. Treatments include handing over your passport to the guy at CVS so you can buy some Sudafed. And when we do feel well enough to head out, we need a warm, healthy beverage. Coffee will only make us jittery and dehydrated, so we head right for the herbal teas.

Tealuxe, with their many locations around town, help us hobble from point A to B. We can hop off at Copley, Harvard, or somewhere in between to grab a cup of rooibos or chamomile. Much like our favorite pharmacist, they know just what we need when we describe our symptoms. With their seemingly endless supply of loose leaf teas behind the wooden counter, we feel woozy and a bit overwhelmed, but that's why their helpful staff hooks us up and sends us on our way. "Get some rest. Something's going around!" We heard.

Our other favorite spot for the warming goodness of tea is Dado Tea. The independent local shop has the heart of a Chinese apothecary and the service of a mom & pop lunch counter. Their staff has been incredibly kind on the days we hobble in, sneezing as we come. "You need some tea! Something is going around." And with a few of their tiny, delicious cookies in a bag to go, we grab our mug and head home again. Time to sleep this off.

Tealuxe [MenuPages]
Tealuxe [Official Site]
Dado Tea [MenuPages]
Dado Tea [Official Site]

[Photo: visualpanic/Flickr]

While we don't need an excuse to stop into Trident Cafe, hoping for a window seat, we love their chicken salads while catching up on the latest magazines we didn't know we wanted to read. The spinach salad that comes as a side is also great, though we'd always love a bigger portion. And of course, don't forget that all salads are not created equal. Some of the best are not the veggie kind, but the ones made with fresh fruit.

For a slightly Asian twist on a deliciously crisp favorite, stop in to (or order to go from) Genki Ya. We love their seaweed salad, but their greens are in their own league. The delicious smaller green salad comes with every sushi lunch combo, but a larger version can be ordered as well. We're not sure where they get such fresh cherry tomatoes and avocados in the middle of the winter, but what really gets us is their homemade ginger dressing. We didn't know we liked ginger so much until we met the salad at Genki Ya.

And while it only resembles a green salad in name, we're suckers for the potato salad at The Otherside Cafe. With a huge range of veggie options, it might not seem like the first choice on their varied menu, but we love when it comes as a side to our vegan BLT.

Trident Cafe [MenuPages]
Trident Cafe [Official Site]
Genki Ya [MenuPages]
The Otherside Cafe [MenuPages]

[Photo: Miky Jpeg]

When our parents got married in the early '70s, they got not one, not two, but six fondue sets as gifts. We were browsing the old albums recently, scoping the registry and items received lists, and after a while, it became a joke. How many of these things could any one person - or couple - use? Melted cheese is a pretty normal concept, after all. Did everyone think they were being original?

But just because the popularity of fondue outdates our births, if not the thought that we'd ever be born, it doesn't mean this classic doesn't stand the test of time. At The Melting Pot, you can sample the traditional range of cheeses and chocolates, and while we're never ones to head straight for a chain restaurant, you can do a hell of a lot worse when it comes to gluttonous meals out.

At the Wine Cellar, you may feel more upscale in your attempts to cook on your own table, but really, it's just one more excuse to get a little tipsy and play with your food. We particularly love their caramel fondue, which comes paired with a delicious array of fruit and nuts. As with any other fondue adventure, be prepared for a leisurely evening. It takes time to skewer everything properly, and at The Wine Cellar, you may also have your hands full sampling from their fantastic wine menu.

Sadly, we don't know what happened to mom and dad's impressive fondue pot collection. Like their marriage, it probably ended up on a curb somewhere or sitting impatiently in a secondhand store. If only love was as easy as food.

The Melting Pot [MenuPages]
The Melting Pot [Official Site]
Wine Cellar [MenuPages]
Wine Cellar [Official Site]

[Photo: pink_fish13]

Here's the lowdown on the Gold: First off, it costs $25 a year to even get your hands on one of these puppies. But we're thinking if you drop around $10 a day on two drinks at Starbucks, you pretty much are ignoring the price tag, anyway. At the time of that purchase, you receive a free drink. Then when you register your card, benefits include a free drink on your birthday, free Wi-Fi for up to 2 hours each day in participating Starbucks stores, and "exclusive offers and discounts throughout the year." We always thought the Wi-Fi was free in general at Starbucks, but we're not sure. What those exclusive offers and discounts are, we're not really sure. We assume this includes some things like coupons during the holiday season, and occasional free treats. So if you're just a sporadic visitor of Starbucks, the Gold Card probably won't interest you. But for the multiple-times-a-day visitor who just can't function without your daily half-decaf, skinny cappuccino, we're thinking this Golden Ticket is perfect for you. Just don't lick the wallpaper.

Starbucks [Official Site]

[Photo: Amanda's Site]

Most omnivores know Veggie Planet Pizza for their folk music stage and delicious pizzas for vegans and vegetarians alike. From using local ingredients to organic dough made at the South End's Haley House, Veggie Planet is an establishment firmly rooted in the community. For skeptics that don't believe vegetarian food can be tasty, VP is the place we take them every time. No one is ever disappointed.

T. J. Scallywaggle's, currently in the process of rebranding themselves TJ's House of Vegan Pizza, is also busy opening another location in Jamaica Plain. The good news is that during the changes, they're still open for business, serving some of the most inventive vegan pies in town. If you've ever had vegan cheese, you know it's melting properties aren't quite the same as the dairy version. That doesn't stop TJ's from making delicious pizzas that warm up great the next day, too. Our favorites include anything with their fake chicken.

We'd also be remiss if we didn't mention Beauty's. While nothing on their menu is explicitly vegan, the friendly folks behind the counter are happy to accommodate a vegan guest who walks through their door. Most of their gourmet vegetarian pizzas can be easily converted. Our fave is the spinach mushroom Florentine. Join their mailing list on their website and get a free medium pizza that will win you over and send you back for more.

Veggie Planet [Official Site]
TJ's House of Vegan Pizza [Official Site]
Beauty's Pizza [Official Site]

[Photo: rusvaplauke/Flickr]

But while all of these neat concoctions are festive and fun, we want a big tall glass of the real thing. We don't care if it has rum, bourbon, or is alki-free. We're ready to drink up. LA Burdick occasionally carries a hearty nog this time of year, but we're mostly into buying some from the store or making our own. For a cheap fix, you can try any of the new Hood varieties (we love vanilla or pumpkin), sold at Shaw's and the like. For a few more pennies and a richer drink, try the 365 Whole Foods version - you'll know it by the glass bottle. For some of the best in town, from local dairies around suburban Boston, head to the Davis Square Dairy Bar.

If you're lactose intolerant, look for Vitasoy Holly Nog and Silk Soy-nog as perfectly acceptable substitutes. And if you're just worried about the calories, Hood has a light version too.

Happy drinking and happy holidays!

Christina's Ice Cream [Official Site]
The Breakfast Club, 270 Western Ave, Allston, 617-783-1212
Burdick Chocolate [Official Site]
The Dairy Bar at Kickass Cupcakes [Official Site]

[Photo: House of Sims/Flickr]

Who doesn't love a holiday deal? While we love prix fixe menus all year, we especially love one less decision around the holidays. Set us down, hand us our simple list of choices, and take care of the rest. At some restaurants, this is particularly easy since you know no matter what you order, it will be delicious.

One sure bet is Les Zygomates, wine and raw bar extraordinaire. When some of the main course choices can run a similar price to their $32 prix fixe menu, why wouldn't you sign up for soup, salad, main course, and dessert all in one? Live jazz brings us in, and the affordable cuisine keeps us happy.

L'Espalier features various fixed menus throughout the year, but their lunch set-up is our favorite. It's a perfect stop while rushing around Back Bay for last minute gifts, and at an easy to swallow price, it's a great way to try this French spot if you've never been before. Be ready to take your time. Lunch at L'Espalier is a leisurely affair.

On Sundays only, you can sample the best of the menu at Rendezvous for a flat $38. While we don't begrudge the chefs who only offer certain items on their prix fixe menus, we love the one here for including everything - we mean everything. Because they include the entire menu, this is also the best bet for vegetarians. You've only got one weekend left before Christmas. And you were sick of cooking, right?

Les Zygomates [Official Site]
L'Espalier [Official Site]
Rendezvous [Official Site]

[Photo: NoelZiaLee/Flickr]

Around town, we love to seek out the best of the microbrews, tiny batches of craft beer that might just be gone if we don't get there in time. 15,000 barrels of beer might not sound like a small number, but do you know how much beer is consumed in Allston every weekend alone? While we can easily swing by any number of liquor stores to grab what we want (Wine Gallery being one of our faves) what if we want to dine out? What if we need a micro on tap? It shouldn't be too much to ask.

Mission Hill's The Squealing Pig always has a fun variety of beers on tap, and their small batches go best with their deliciously bizarre sandwich combinations. The bartenders are knowledge just in case you aren't, and if you're not after a microbrew, you can still sample their Belgian offerings, which are always worth a trip to the Hill.

When we're downtown or browsing the Back Bay, equally hungry for sandwiches with style and a beer to wash it down, we hit up Parish Cafe, renowned for their inspired collaborative menu and dark brews. They serve an excellent mix of bottled and draft ales, changing with their seasons like their outdoor seating option.

But among bars that serve the best of the craft, we always turn to Bukowski's Tavern. In addition to the normal range of German and domestic beers on tap, they always have choices that surprise us. Some people think it's a dive. We call it heaven. You'll have to see for yourself to believe it.

Squealing Pig [Official Site]
Parish Cafe [Official Site]
Bukowski's Tavern [MenuPages]

[Photo: Schlüsselbein2007/Flickr]

Here at MenuPages, we get hundreds of user reviews every single day. Most are legitimate people who ate at a restaurant and want to tell people how they liked it (or didn't). Some are unprintable on a family website. Some are from the non-functionally illiterate (a short excerpt from a unvalidated review that came in yesterday: "Itt 's amazinqq ii nevahh new somethinq dhtt qudd . Or ii nevahh tastedd in mei life.") And some reviews are from shills, folks affiliated with the restaurant (be they publicists, owners, or family members). As we've mentioned before, shill reviews insult our intelligence and, generally speaking, piss us off.

"But Leila," you ask. "How do you know a review is from a shill?" Allow us to show you what might be the quintessential shill: a review left for a New York restaurant that shall remain nameless. As with MP Chicago's similarly-themed post yesterday, our annotations are in bold.

This is my first review (1)- but the 1st time I was so impressed that I wanted to tell other ppl. I went here with a few girlfriends(2) for dinner, the place was busy but not too much, the decor was so beautiful! Just being in there totally gave me a vibe of excitement. The food was crazy good(3). I was full and really was sad to stop eating. I think my fav thing was the drink I got its called the Nina Fresa(4), It this amazing fruity blend that is light and fresh and not loading with sugar. Super Yumm!(5)

1) No it is not. Fun fact! We can sort reviews by IP address and the shill had left the EXACT SAME review for another branch of the same chain.

2) Shills are the only people who use the phrase "a few girlfriends" (e.g. "I stopped into this place for brunch with a few girlfriends!" "A few girlfriends and me tried this hot new restaurant!" "A few girlfriends and I were looking for a place with great cocktails! Very Sex and the City!")

3) Shills are also the only people who use the phrase "crazy good" in reviews.

4) Regular users do not reference the exact names of menu items.

5) Normal people do not talk in a manner that indicates that they aspire to become Rachael Ray.

We're on to you, shills, and we don't like what we see.

George Washington Carver found all sorts of uses for the peanut, but sadly, some of us have no use for the tiny snacks at all. Thankfully, several of our city's restaurants understand this dilemma, this forced exile from legumes. At Grezzo, which specializes in all sorts of healthy foods, they can easily take your nut allergy into consideration. Bertucci's does a similarly helpful job of keeping the hive-inducing nuts completely out of the restaurant. It's so much better when you can focus on the unlimited salad and those tiny, amazingly hot rolls.

If you're in JP, stopping by Alchemist is always a safe bet. They have great beers on tap, we love the dark interior, and in the winter, this place is extra cozy with their hearty menu of steaks and soups to keep you warm. What you won't get is an unexpected surprise, like a trip to the ER because your throat swelled shut. AL keeps it safe for peanut-phobes.

And while maybe not at the top of our list, we know that in Harvard Square, the Border Cafe will keep us safely away from our dreaded shelled enemy. We may not go nuts over their entrees, but at least they aren't actually filled with nuts. If only everyone were so considerate of the freaks among us. At least this time, we didn't bring our outsider status on ourselves.

Grezzo [Official Site]
Bertucci's [Official Site]
Alchemist Lounge [Official Site]
Border Cafe [Official Site]

[Photo: tamburix/Flickr]

Thing is, we can't do it all. You can only make some many dishes in one day. You can only ask people to pitch in so much. And because we love focusing on the Turkey Day main courses, we sometimes sneak the take-out into the dessert category. Cakes and pies are par for the course, but what about mixing it up a bit this year? We already make fun flavors of Tofurkey and complicated cranberry sauces. Why can't our sweets be unconventional too?

All over town, there are plenty of spots for cupcake lovers. Kickass Cupcakes is the area's newest addition the bakery lineup, and while it may have been in its cute corner spot outside Davis Square for some time, we can't help give it every shout-out possible. Their wide variety, from gluten-free to cupcakes for cats, are deliciously bite-size and perfect for a dinner party or an everyday treat. Their Dairy Bar next door stocks all the extras you'll need, and if you're super short on time, call them for delivery - no joke.

Down in the North End, our go-to spot is Lulu's Bake Shoppe. Unlike some of the rotating varieties in other bakeries, Lulu's has a consistent line-up of favorites - chocolate and vanilla - to newer finds like red velvet and smores. If you're on the other side of downtown, you probably know you can swing by flour bakery in the South End for a similarly wonderful lineup of standard choices. At flour, they sell out fast, and if you live in the 'burbs, you may find yourself dropping by Party Favors on the way home. With a case full of gourmet cakes, cupcakes, and tarts, you can also easily buy a baker's dozen of vanilla cupcakes with sugary flowered frosting without thinking twice. Your guests may know you didn't make them yourself, but they certainly won't complain.

Kickass Cupcakes [Official Site]
Lulu's Bake Shoppe [Official Site]
flour bakery + cafe [Official Site]
Party Favors [Official Site]

[Photo: Kelly Sue/Flickr]

If you're one of those strange human beings who don't consume caffeine, indulge in the Hazelnut Hot Chocolate, a smooth blend perfect for hiding from the biting, cold weather. If you're looking for a good caffeine buzz like us, the Gingersnap Latte can be made with multiple espresso shots. (Naturally, we need a little kick with our "snap"). But most indulgent of all is the Espresso Truffle, which pairs traditional espresso with "European-style cocoa" (whatever that means), steamed milk, whipped cream, and chocolate powder. This delicious blend of chocolate and caffeine is the perfect fix for those of us addicted to both. So even though Starbucks can't quite seem to snap out of their financial funk as we ride that merry recession sleigh into the holiday season, we still suggest treating yourself to a delicious beverage once in awhile.

Starbucks [Official Site]

[Photo: Financial Content]

At No Name, you can sample some of the ocean's best on their reasonably priced seafood plate, including shrimp, scallops, and oysters. The average service and kitschy seaside decor makes this one of the best places to find low-key fresh fish on a budget. Don't expect anything fancy, but do expect delicious.

If you're not into the waterfront scene, head to the North End's Neptune Oyster, a local favorite that always impresses. From chowder to the raw bar, you can pick from a diverse selection of the Atlantic's finest catches and combos. The wine list is superbly matched with the seawater delights, and they've yet to make a bad lobster. Open late on the weekends, this is arguably the best spot for a higher-end seafood experience.

But if you're in East Boston and feel left out, never fear. Belle Isle is your go-to take out market, with killer lobster rolls and quick service, no matter the time of day. We personally recommend their swordfish, but we hear tales that about any shellfish in the joint is sure to make you smile. Friendly service, cash only, remember to eat your coleslaw, and watch out for those airplanes swooping overhead.

No Name [MenuPages]
Neptune Oyster [Official Site]
Belle Isle [MenuPages]

[Photo: SqueakyMarmot/Flickr]

We head to The Cantab Lounge when we're over the scene, the one that says bro dudes rule the night and drink specials are watered down. The weekends at Cantab, on the other hand, rock the old school covers, mostly soul and funk, and it's a great place to kick back or kick it up, if you're the dancing type. Check in with the bartender if you love a good pour. With more than 50 beers on tap, you're sure to find something that makes you feel right at home.

While clearly basement-esque in name, Garden at The Cellar is more about keeping us cozy in the third season. Tried their tomato soup and grilled cheese special? Think you could make it at home? We'd sure like to know your secret if yours can compare. We come to The Cellar for this gem of a duo, plus anything else on their delicious menu, including their tater tots stuffed with mashed potatoes. Need we say more? Come happy, come often.

And perhaps the only spot in a literal basement, Grendel's Den has some of Harvard Square's most reliable bar food, from their turkey burger to the potato skins. The food is half price every night from 5:30pm -7pm if you make a $3 drink purchase, so order a stout and stay a while. Service can be slow, but you're not in a hurry, right? That sure would screw up your cool vibe.

Cantab Lounge [Official Site]
Garden at The Cellar [Official Site]
Grendel's Den [Official Site]

[Photo: Skelekitten/Flickr]

Sometimes, you just need greasy hangover food. Others, you need the opposite, a kickstart to your weekend with fresh OJ, a cocktail or two, with a side of brunch. It's usually easy to find drinks or brunch, but what about both, expertly done, in the same place? Trust us on this one. We've been at it for a long time.

First to be mentioned and perhaps first in our hearts, Kenmore's Eastern Standard has some of the wildest cocktails we've ever tried. Don't expect to know what you're in for as most of the menu is completely atypical and unpredictable. But how great is mixing that class with some eggs benedict? There's a reason these folks get the Boston Magazine Best of Brunch award, and pairing the menu with drinks from the friendly bartenders is one of the best weekend combos around town.

Alternately, if you're in the Cambridge area, you probably already know the fulfilled promises of theB Side. You also probably already know they serve brunch until 4pm on the weekends, but who are we to keep a secret like that? The duck confit is practically sinful (and nobody wants that kind of wrath on a Sunday), but washing it down with a bloody mary isn't exactly righteous either, is it? We know the digs here aren't the snazziest in town, but we find it hard to name another spot this side of the river so perfectly adept at pairing our two faves: alcohol and breakfast.

Eastern Standard [MenuPages]
Eastern Standard [Official Site]
B Side [MenuPages]

[Photo: fibroblast/Flickr]

At Portugalia, while the decor may not be much to take in (aside from the standard assortment of roosters guarding the welfare of the place), the food is. Start with the Sangria, try the paella, and make sure you save room for bifanas sandwiches, even if just to sample the one your friend ordered. Portuguese fries are also worth grabbing as a side dish - sort of like giant potato chips, only better. And flan for dessert makes every meal a little better, right?

Atasca, another spot for Portuguese delicacies, specializes in fish, including their incredible salt cod, or bacalhau. The medley fish dinner option is a great place to being sampling, and the cheese plate offers some of the finest choices for beginners. Add great steaks and Portuguese wine to the mix, with friendly owners to boot, and you've got one hell of a great date lined up. Come back in the spring for the patio. Where else in greater Boston can you pick grapes right off the trees while you eat?

And then skipping back to the Americas, we'd be remiss to not mention Southeastern Brazilian cuisine powerhouse Muqueca. This place too is a fish-heavy choice, but in a perhaps more exciting way. The seafood stew mixes up shrimp and squid with yummy veggies and coconut milk, making it one of the best dishes on the menu. The fried yucca is also worth splitting between friends, as you aren't going to find it very many other places around town. And the plantain lasagna...there's a reason the Brazilians have figured out how to use these fruits and vegetables in the best things they make: they're some of the best, unexpected flavors you can add! Call ahead - their small space can only allow a few reservations.

Portugalia [Official Site]
Atasca Hampshire [Official Site]
Muqueca [Official Site]

[Photo: stu_spivak/Flickr]

Angela's Cafe (131 Lexington St, East Boston, (617) 567-4972) makes a mean dip, served with their fabulous homemade fried tortilla chips. The chunky stuff tops off many of the fine dishes here, from burritos to quesadillas, and even ordered as just an appetizer is appealing and fun to share with your friends. We love when places make our guac in plain view, and at Angela's, you won't be disappointed as they mortar the ingredients right before your eyes.

Brighton and Arlington hotspots Zocalo Cocina Mexicana - both owned by the same folks - feature a similarly amazing stone bowl filled with chunky goodness, and it's often touted as a primary reason people stop in. Also made to order, this time right at your table, the zesty lime flavor takes over the entire dish in a way that's pretty much indescribable. Grab their signature sangria to wash it down.

Jamaica Plain also has a more low-key, hole-in-the-wall version of a guacamole spot: Tacos El Charro at times seems to be run by only one woman, but staff behind her or not, this tiny cafe doesn't disappoint. A plate piled high with fresh guac comes with the chips already stuck in the mound in an unruly fashion. We suggest you eat it with the same sort of abandon. Go for the guac, stay for the mariachis.

Angela's Cafe, 131 Lexington Street, East Boston, 617-567-4972.
Zocalo Cocina Mexicana [Official Site]
Tacos El Charro [MenuPages]

[Photo: t i n a | r a v a l/Flickr]

Twin Donuts has that crazy old sign marking its longtime Allston territory, but what about the actual food? Breakfast here is always a hit - from strong coffee to eggy sandwiches to chocolate chip pancakes, these folks know diner breakfast like it's their job. But the donuts, made fresh beginning the night before, will draw you in, starting at 4am if you're still wandering the streets by then (which, for the record, we don't exactly recommend). They call them honey-dipped, and while we don't know exactly what's been done to these goodies, they're too good to ask questions.

Cambridge indie biz Verna's is also home to the honey-dipped goodness that seems to pervade our local donut scene. But they also serve a variety of favorites long discontinued elsewhere. Tried to find an old favorite at Dunkin and realized it's long gone? Bet you money Verna's still makes the oldies but goodies, like vanilla cremes, bearclaws, chocolate frosted, and everyday glazed. Hot coffee and a few donuts will only set you back a few dollars, and the local staff is the most pleasant we've encountered.

Mission Hill fave Mike's Donuts offers a big fresh ring of dough, glazed to perfection, made fresh daily (wander by around 10pm to start catching the smells). It's the kind of spot frequented by ravenous college students and the old man crowd from the block, which is endearing and calming when we walk in. What's not to love about kids stuffing their hungover faces and gramps reading the paper? We can't speak too highly of their breakfast offerings in general, but we also don't mind. Go for glazed donuts, stay for the glazed look that you'll have in your eyes once you've eaten a few of these.

Twin Donuts [MySpace]
Verna's [Official Site]
Mike's Donuts [Official Site]

[Photo: daviddesign/Flickr]

Deluxe Town Diner is a folksy, family-run, somewhat historic Watertown establishment, and while it's a but off the beaten path, it's worth the drive for the veggie sausage alone. Other reasons to get there now: sweet potato pancakes, strong coffee (like has us tweaking after one cup), yummy eggs, STUNNING homefries, and seven types of toast to choose from. If you're starving or adventurous, try "The Colossal Hungry Person," arguably the biggest breakfast in town.

An MP fave in its tiny Cambridge basement location, Veggie Planet Pizza has one of the best veggie and vegan breakfasts in greater Boston. Even the meals that sound odd are divine, like breakfast pizzas topped with black beans and garlic.  Everything is amazingly fresh, quaint, and healthy.  We even dig the tiny tables and plastic plates. Service can take a while, but grab a cup of coffee or tea and relax to the folk music being played live from the stage while you wait.

And in thinking about diverse brunch offering, we'd be remiss not to mention JP's Sorella's (308 Centre St, at Perkins St (617) 524-2016). They have an overwhelming menu, complete with items tacked to colorful wall sheets, filled with omelet suggestions and pancake specials created by their regulars. This is the place to take out-of-town visitors and picky friends - something for everyone, for every dietary restriction. Grab a fresh-squeezed OJ to top it off.

Deluxe Town Diner [Official Site]
Veggie Planet [Official Site]

[Photo: moriza/Flickr]

Perhaps the city's best dual dining experience, winner of years of awards, Montien - with locations downtown in the theater district and a newer one in Inman Square - offers a delicious variety of Thai treats and sushi samplers. One of our favorite lunch haunts, where two or three roll combos fill us full of fresh fish and hearty veggies, leaving a little room for a Thai iced tea. Sometimes paired with spring rolls and shared with the whole table, we've been so happy and content we've picked up the bill for everyone.

And if you happen to work a little off the beaten Brookline path, you probably already know about the amazing lunch deals at tiny Washington Street spot Super Fusion. While the eel and tuna bites are perhaps their best bets, focus too on the price: so little paid, so much received. This place has been kept in business by happy locals for several years now, and it's worth a journey for their lunch combos alone. Takeout is fast and efficient, friendly too. It's way better than the guys behind the counter at Whole Foods, and your belly will thank you too.

Montien [MenuPages]
Montien [Official Site]
Super Fusion [MenuPages]

[Photo: jonrawlinson/Flickr]

Editor's Note: Former MP: Chicago editor Adam Peltz left MenuPages this summer for the greener pastures of law school in Boston. We were very sad. When he filed this dispatch from the Phantom Gourmet Food Festival, however, we were filled with joy again. Enjoy! -Leila

As a new arrival to Boston, I'm only slowly starting to get a sense of the Phantom Gourmet phenomenon and the surrounding Cult of Purple. Food festivals usually center around a particular food item (lobster, strawberries, pickles), an ethnicity (Italian, Caribbean) or a city's restaurants (Taste of Chicago, for example). But the Phantom Gourmet Food Festival, held in Fenway last Saturday, is a celebration of one person's favorite foods, and an apocryphal person at that.

This is worth an aside. Aren't food critics already anonymous? Yes, but the trouble with having a name is you can often attach a face, since most food critics had at least semi-visible prior lives (the New York Times's Frank Bruni, formerly the Rome bureau chief, famously has a grainy photo of his mug splashed on the walls of every major kitchen in the city, thwarting his attempts to critize in secret under fictional aliases).

What do we know about the Phantom Gourmet? And by "we," I mean Wikipedia. It seems that the PG is a real person, gender unknown, who resides in neither Boston nor Providence and has a penchant for pizza. Meanwhile, the Phantom Gourmet qua corporation is owned by David Andelman, who occasionally narrates for the TV show that's hosted by his brother, Dan. Neither brother is purported to be the Phantom Gourmet; however, one can surmise that the image of the Phantom Gourmet, swaddled as he or she is in purple cape and top hat, is entirely their invention.

So I suppose I can...thank them for the purple beads that were thrown around my neck as I turned onto Lansdowne Street to collect my forty dollar will-call ticket for the Festival (kind of a lot considering that even water was a la carte). I was unprepared for the number of people dressed in purple — some in a whole hell of a lot of purple — but I was prepared to eat.

Doesn't this look great? It wasn't. The chocolate cupake from Kickass Cupcakes in Somerville certainly kicked something, namely my teeth when I tried to bite into it. Stale as a Mitt Romney joke! And the chocolate ribbons on top were just as hard, making it an extremely challenging and disappointing bite.

This Cheesesteak from the suburban Cheesesteak Guys had a pleasing texture, but was salty, a little flavorless, and most puzzling of all, lacked cheese. Isn't that disqualifying?

More uncomfortable comfort food after the jump...

Continue reading "Phantom Gourmet Food Festival Sizzles, Fizzles" »

Much more than its name suggests, IQ is a complexly wonderful, just-below-ground-level bistro with an overly attentive staff, delicious options at any time of the day, and those crazy little curried sauces we love. What makes India Quality the stuff of dreams is their consistency: not once over the years have they served us a single mediocre meal. It's the place where you can guarantee to draw a smile from a hostile date, your overbearing parents, a scorned lover.

There are far too many favorites to list them all, but we recommend the garlic naan, pakoras, Malai Kofta, and kheer (you know, rice pudding) to get you started. Not familiar with Indian food? What an unassuming place to start. Despite all the accolades this place receives - ours part of a long history of IQ love - this place remains humble to the eye and happy to help new customers get comfortable. Next time you walk through the door, don't be surprised if they remember you.

India Quality [MenuPages]
India Quality [Official Site]

[Photo: Moe_/Flickr]

So holding steady in Harvard Square, we weren't too surprised to see a second location spring up along Beacon Street in Brookline. On a corner facing the tempting treats of Emack and Bolio's, the location features a wide range of new dishes, and the menu is sometimes missing the items we loved most in Cambridge.

Yet, we're so into the new space, even if they've only unofficially opened for now. Redecorating continues, but from your seat, you're likely to catch the breeze wafting in through the windows that opens the whole restaurant to the street. A much more seafood-heavy menu, it doesn't so closely resemble the Tamarind across the river, but we're adventurous and up for a challenge. Try the kind crab paired with always appealing fluffy naan.

Stay tuned for their official opening on Monday!

Tamarind Bay [MenuPages]
Tamarind Bay [Official Site]

[Photo: theedinburghblog.co.uk/Flickr]

Those of us that miss our Midwestern roots have long lamented here the lack of quality diners in our city. Grabbing a decent breakfast that isn't a chef-inspired brunch can be tricky, and while we love to get our brunch on, we sometimes yearn for the cheap and easy fix. Thing is, we don't always pick the obvious choice. Busy Bee (1046 Beacon St, (617) 566-8733) has been one of our favorite Brookline haunts for years, serving up simple eats for unbelievable prices.

This place is straight up old school.  Red vinyl booths, snappy waitresses who appear to be transported from another time, and crazy cheap food.  We like the authenticity - way better than an IHOP any day - and seriously, it seems like two people can get out of there for something like six bucks total.  It's the kind of place where you ought to tip what you paid for your meal. Eggs, bacon, and hash browns are sometimes the best part of the day. Stop into Busy Bee for "A Meal Or A Snack" as their neon sign advertises. No matter what time of day, no matter what you need, this just may be the best deal in our city.

[Photo: MontageMan/Flickr]

But, a while back, the folks behind BS realized there was no need. And then there were three. The Similans, an exceptionally cute sister restaurant right next to the Cambridgeside Galleria, features an almost identical (massive) menu, full of fresh veggies, fish, and a whole mess of noodles. It isn't particularly "authentic" Thai food, but it's nevertheless delicious. While some don't dig the Brown Sugar/Similans way, we particularly like that their food is on the sweet side. The name does say "sugar," no?

Lunch is always prompt and makes a very filling midday choice. Most nights, you won't need to call ahead, and the staff at all three restaurants is impeccably nice. And as for people watching? No need. Stare at those beautiful saltwater fish tanks between bites instead.

Brown Sugar Cafe [Official Site]
The Similans [Official Site]

[Photo: stu_spivak/Flickr]

Arrow Street Crepes is Harvard Square's answer to all foods folded. It's a teeny, sometimes cramped space, but what near Harvard - aside from those massive academic buildings - isn't? To balance out the scholarly madness, we often opt for The Hippie - green apples and cheddar are a winning combo. Open until 10pm in the H Square, that's something to smile about.

For lunch down the road in Davis, Mr. Crepe (51 Davis Square, (617) 623-0661) has something for everyone. We know many lament the closing of the Someday Cafe, but we've been forced to move on. Namely, ingredients like avocado, Gruyere, bananas and Nutella left us no choice. A great coffee and tea selection round out any crepe-based meal in this rather spacious cafe.

And over in Brookline, Paris Creperie crams a whole lot of goodness into another narrow, awkward space. But we always try to find a seat anyway. The staff are a young friendly bunch who bring your goodies right to your table, and the combo of fresh crepes (we like Lily's Crepe - asparagus for the win!), fresh coffee, and fun smoothies make this a great spot before or after catching a flick at the next door Coolidge Corner Theatre. Cultured eating and viewing = perfection.

Arrow Street Crepes [Official Site]
Paris Creperie [MenuPages]

[Photo: VirtualErn/Flickr]

Traditional cooking is the hook at TT, but it's also the real thing. Specialties include homemade pastas, sausages and meats made on site, and organic local produce used at every available opportunity. Par for the course (no pun intended), the menu changes seasonally and as the market prices fluctuate. Every night excluding Wednesday, a $25 four course vegetarian tasting menu is available. And the enormous dessert and after dinner drink menu? We'll let you try to decide for yourself from the overwhelming list of treats. Ten Tables is much like it sounds - small - but don't let this dissuade you from visiting. Call for a reservation because there are few better spots for dinner with a loved one in the Plain.

Ten Tables [MenuPages]
Ten Tables [Official Site]

[Photo: Ten Tables]

At MenuPages, we often blog about meat. Bacon delights, meat on a stick - you name it, we've tried it. Yet a widespread love for meat products among us don't lead us to hate on the opposite end of the spectrum. We feel lucky to live in a city with such stellar vegan options (yes, we know there could always be more), and we particularly love the intersection of Allston and Brookline where we can find multiple animal-free eating options within a few blocks.

Probably known best for their bubble teas, My Thai serves some of the best fake meaty goods in town. Their sweet & sour dishes far surpass traditional Asian restaurant fare, and save room for dessert. All of the cakes in the case out front, from lemon poppyseed to double chocolate, are vegan as well.

T. J. Scallywaggle's may have a silly name, but they're serious about delicious soy cheese pies with fresh veggies and crispy fake chicken. Delivery can be spotty, but grab a pre-ordered dinner on your way home and pick from their other menu items like subs and faux chicken nuggets. The restaurant opens at 3pm on Tuesdays, otherwise everyday at noon.

And when speaking of vegan cuisine in greater Boston, we'd be remiss to neglect mentioning Grasshopper. Sunday buffets are legendary, and even the most carnivorous among us crave the "chicken" fingers and the No Name. On a hungover weekend morning, it sure beats warmed over Tofurkey.

My Thai Cafe [Official Site]
TJ Scallywaggle's [Official Site]
Grasshopper [Official Site]

[Photo: totalAldo/Flickr]

What's so cool about this unassuming restaurant? Facing the griddle might not be the best idea at some greasy spoons, but at Leo's, watching short order in action can be half the fun, as are the tales the owners will tell. When was the last time you had traditional french toast with home fries, let alone in under five minutes? They even play classic rock and the occasional oldies to set the mood. Go for the old school vibe - they've been an area mainstay since 1958 - but stay for the filling fare. High rents be damned. There's a reason they've been around so long.

Leo's Place [MenuPages]

[Photo: digiyesica/Flickr]

Harvard Square may have a few questionable alleys, but The Cellar isn't the dingy basement its name might imply. It does however lend itself to being a comfortable neighborhood hangout with all the staples: cheap, traditional American fare and cold drinks.

The Cellar is a classic pub downstairs, where you order at the bar and - carb haters beware - you can sample tater tots filled with mashed potatoes. Great beers on tap, and some of the friendliest bartenders we know.

Upstairs, the Garden gastropub keeps your budget under control and your mouth watering. The soups are one of our picks, a whole menu filled with tomato, pea, and cold choices for every foodie in your posse. The small plate appetizers are also stellar, and we're here to remind you to ask about the daily special.

Right in between Harvard and Central Squares, great for a casual dinner with friends. Downstairs, cash only. Upstairs in the garden, they will gladly swipe your plastic.

The Cellar [MenuPages]
The Cellar [Official Site]

[Photo: Good Eatin With Lynne]

Greener on the other side of the street? How about on the street bearing the same name?

After dropping the "Grill" part of their name some time back, Green Street kept up their solid reputation as a Cambridge hot spot, right off Central Square. First, let's talk drinks. Six pages of cocktails, to be exact. Alphabetized. Wines in any price range. Grab a bar stool on busier nights to make sure they keep your glasses full.

Now let's talk food. Features rotate often, so our favorites constantly change, but suffice to say, we love the variety with staples like duck and mac & cheese. The menu itself may not have a lot of veg options, but the chef is always accommodating. The lack of fries makes us a bit sad, but we get keeping things new and exciting can be tough with traditional, fried potatoes on the agenda. Still, what's a pub without carb wedges? Props for the localization of the ingredients, though. We dig fresh regional produce.

The higher prices (think $20 for expanded comfort food) keep this gem a special occasion kind of place. Every city should have a few of these, and lucky for us, Green Street is just one of many over in the 'Bridge.

Green Street [MenuPages]
Green Street [Official Site]

[Photo: x-eyedblonde/Flickr]

The space is a tight squeeze on busy evenings, so consider a late lunch or takeout as other options. The Charlestown location also makes it a bit easier to find a seat. We don't dismiss the value of The Upper Crustdown the Beacon Hill block, but we revel in the genius of Figs.

Figs [MenuPages]
Figs [Official Site]

[Photo: pizzodisevo/Flickr]

Zocalo (both Brighton and Arlington locations) and Ole have both won awards over the years for their guacamole alone - simple, with fresh ingredients, made on a cart right next to your table. Their menus feature a wide variety of the usual enchiladas, quesadillas, burritos, and salads, but everything has its own unique flair. Don't go expecting mild, uninteresting Tex-Mex. We assure you any of the dishes on these menus will hit the spot more than a cheap empanada to go. The Brighton Zocalo used to have a live mariachi band - we miss it so. Both also have amazing drink menus - check out the pear sangria at Zocalo or an Ole margarita. Traditional tequila never tasted so good. Also check out Sunday brunch, where huevos rancheros and black beans keep everyone smiling...and loosening their belts.

Ole Mexican Grill [Official Site]
Zocalo Cocina Mexicana [Official Site]

[Photo: lucianvenutian/Flickr]

They also have a super hip side blog full of food news and views, as well as a recipe archive on their website. What's not to love about prolific chefs?

Craigie Street Bistrot [MenuPages]
Craigie Street Bistrot [Official Site]

[Photo: adactio/Flickr]

We miss the Porter Square location, but we'll trek downtown anytime for this goodness. For folks who live up north, be sure to try the Hingham location, which has an even larger menu!

And if you're really into doing things the Rustic Kitchen way, check out Friday night demos of "In The Kitchen" with Alissa Bigelow. Shows are taped live and can accommodate groups of up to 16, so call ahead to reserve your spot! They aren't currently being aired, but stayed tuned to the RK website for updates and details.

Rustic Kitchen [MenuPages]
Rustic Kitchen [Official Site]

[Photo: dboy/Flickr]

Newbury Street's unassuming Scoozi serves up one delicious pizza pie. We dig their sandwiches too, and we love the patio. An otherwise super small space inside, their business more than doubles when the al fresco season arrives. Stop by mid-afternoon to beat the crowds.

Grendel's Den [Official Site]
Scoozi [Official Site]

[Photo: decor8/Flickr]

With a name like Metropolis, you might expect something loud, bustling, slightly gentrified, obnoxious? Then you'd be wrong on this one.

The South End's Metropolis Cafe is one of our favorite brunch spots in the area. Salads of endive and arugula get everyone started off right, followed by fluffy pancakes, grits, and huevos rancheros. They use real maple syrup. The waitstaff are pleasant and even for a small place with a line out the door, you never feel rushed. Dinner is a treat with dishes like asparagus tartar - even if you love the steak or tuna version, we suspect this will win you over. We also recommend any pasta dish they've concocted. Beer and wine only, but we can't complain on that count alone. Worth stopping in for an intimate dinner with a friend or loved one. We're sure this won't disappoint.

Metropolis Cafe [MenuPages]

[Photo: Festivus Gastronomicus]

By pass we don't mean to pass this by. We mean pass go, collect $200 (you're gonna need it). Get there. Now.

Salts is one of Cambridge's best, if most expensive, spots and worthy of accolades. The small space is somehow never noisy and crowded, despite its popularity. Chef Gabriel Bremer was one of Food and Wine's Best New Chefs of 2007, and the excellent menu shows why. Salts maintains relationships with local fisherman and farmers, ensuring the freshest catch and local, organic produce are the base of everything they do. Wines change to compliment the seasonal selections, and most come from France, Spain, and the US. The service is unparalleled, knowledge and friendly in every sense of the word, topped off by the friendliness of hostess and co-owner Analia. And if you've heard the rumors, consider them true: the duck is so popular, it is encouraged that you place your order for one well in advance. And remember to save room for one of their creative desserts! Salts is serious food for serious foodies. We love it.

Salts [MenuPages]
Salts Restaurant [Official Site]

[Photo: SuziJane/Flickr]

Chacarero is one of those fabled Boston sandwich shops we trek out of our way to find. Once a pushcart, Chacarero now has several locations nestled downtown. This Chilean shop features a simple, solid menu of tasty chicken, beef, or veggie sandwiches, topped with their legendary green beans, avocado, tomatoes, and muenster cheese. Their bread is always fresh and tasty, keeping with a traditional recipe. The lines have been known to stretch around the block, but with so few choices, Chacarero keeps it easy. Luckily, everything is amazing. We've even heard breakfast is great - who doesn't love a little ham & eggs on the go?

Chacarero [MenuPages]
Chacarero [Official Site]

[Photo: Neilmeiser]

We love trying the combos Boston has to offer, and the Cambodian and French menu is expertly done at the acclaimed Elephant Walk. In addition to the traditional fare, we adore the range of options, including vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free menus, available for lunch and dinner. All the dishes are prepared by the talented mother/daughter head chef team, who are originally from Cambodia and fled the Khmer Rouge in 1975. After a brief stint in France, they settled in the Boston area, and their fusion cuisine showcases perhaps some of the best products of a traumatic era. A skillfully selected wine list displays a variety of perfect pairings, rounding out a fantastic meal at a local favorite. With three great locations and their own cookbook for sale, we suggest you...walk on over. (We couldn't resist.)

And, starting this Sunday, the Elephant Walk is participating in Summer Restaurant Week, so call for reservations soon!

Elephant Walk [MenuPages]
Elephant Walk [Official Site]

[Photo: BrianScott/Flickr]

Featuring standard appetizers like edamame, miso soup, and gyoza, the main reason to trek to Wagamama is the ramen. We know $12 ramen seems like a stretch, but bear with us here. Fresh chicken and beef adorn these dishes, as do chillies, veggies, and all sorts of savory flavors of broth. Lo mein, soba, and udon round out the menu, as do a wide variety of rice dishes. We tout the idea of "something for everyone" a lot, we know, but this is just one more example of a place that caters to a group of diverse eaters.

Kid-friendly (and sometimes a little overrun with them, we recommend heading over for lunch. Located in touristy spots for a reason, this is still a spot worth trying, if just to say you've stopped in.

Wagamama [Official Site]

[Photo: Phil Roman/Flickr]

Oleana's cuisine might transport you to the Mediterranean in taste, but sitting outside in Boston's humidity can sometimes feel equivalent. Try the lamb kefta appetizer while you bask in the sunshine, a light tuna roll, or their fabulous vegetarian sampling menu.

For a neighborhood Irish pub also featuring outdoor seating, head to Jamaica Plain's James's Gate. Even on a warm day, we like the featured risotto or ravioli - what can we say? We like to be surprised. The enormous beer selection will keep you cool, regardless of your entree choices.

Known for their elaborate sandwiches, Parish Cafe has one of the most visible patios near downtown. Passing by on Boylston, it's impossible to miss...and pretty hard to get a table too. Featuring creations by some of Boston's best chefs, this restaurant inspires collaboration and good times. Bring a friend or five and hope you can find a spot to people-watch.

Oleana [Official Site]
James's Gate [Official Site]
Parish Cafe [Official Site]

[Photo: Llima/Flickr]

We head to No. 9 Park for ambiance and French and Italian-inspired cuisine that while delicious, doesn't have to try too hard. The staff is always professional, the service always just the right pace. Our top recommendations are the Pekin duck or codfish, but we'd also be hard pressed to find anything we didn't like on this menu, which also changes on occasion. And like any quality chef, veggies rotate with the seasons. If pasta is available, give Chef Lynch's specialty a try. Reservations are recommended. The candlelit meal will be one to remember, if not one of the best you've ever had.

No. 9 Park [Official Site]
No. 9 Group [Official Site]

[Photo: Charles Haynes/Flickr]

Because there are so many good places for small plates in our city...

Toro: We love Toro for Spanish-style tapas and a scrupulous Sunday brunch. Fireplace in the winter, patios for the summer, Toro knows how to adapt and has been one of Boston's best for shared plates for years. They have industry night the first Thursday of every month, which is a solid deal for any servers out there looking to sample some of the South End's yummiest dishes.

Tapeo: Newbury Street's answer to small plates. With a menu that rotates seasonally every eight weeks, we love stopping by for the latest concoctions from the kitchen. The bar offers a similarly fun blend of old and new, including a great selection of Spanish wines. That's only fitting, right?

Estragon: Also nestled in the South End, Estragon features Spain's best in a touted authentic atmosphere with gold 30s decor. The cozy bar features a sangria bubbler, and the waitstaff is thoughtful and warm. The prices keep your options open, with a little something for everyone, regardless of their budget. And, particularly for the veg heads among us, Estragon is the city's best bet for veggie options. Period.

Toro [Official Site]
Tapeo [Official Site]
Estragon [Official Site]

[Photo: udn/Flickr]

We'd try to think of a clever title, but the name is already so darn cute...

So we miss Rachel's Kitchen in the Bay Village, but what good news that she's moved to Cambridgeport! Hungry Mother features updated southern cuisine: boiled peanuts, fried catfish, grits, collard greens, and cinnamon buns for dessert. The service? Out of this world. Easily the nicest folks in the Kendall area. The prices are steep, and the place can get noisy on a busy night, but the succulent shrimp and roasted chicken with snap peas are worth any trouble you might encounter. We love trying new spots, and this one should be on your list too...assuming it isn't already.

Grab a HM logo pin on your way out as a souvenir.

Hungry Mother [MenuPages]
Hungry Mother [Official Site]

[Photo: LimeyG Bends Yer Lughole]

No matter how you roll through Inman Square, there are ways to feed your face. Consider the following:

S&S Restaurant might not be a diamond among stones, but it does do a few things right, namely a huge menu and the ability to handle large groups. It's nice to breakfast-all-day-with-a-group options in our town aside from the IHOP, ya know? It sure is hard to mess up scrambled eggs and toast.

But for the seekers among us, we'd send you down the block to All Star Sandwich Bar. Some balk at an $8 sammie, but we like local spots with nice folks who fill our bellies. It might be a sandwich place, but their chili is to die for. And can you say free Oreos?

Alas, real dessert is often in order. Not to fear: Christina's has every strange and wonderful flavor of ice cream or sorbet you could want. Everything is seasonal, rotating around like the planet, but we say you can never go wrong with chocolate.

S&S Restaurant and Deli [Official Site]
All Star Sandwich Bar [Official Site]
Christina's Homemade Ice Cream [Official Site]

[Photo: lilivanili/Flickr]

We know, sometimes it's hard to get excited about what seems like a corner bar in what isn't your own 'hood. Thing is, Delux is worth a trip across our fair city, rain or shine. With what we sometimes called "inspired food," this hidden gem serves famous quesadillas year 'round, plus a rotating sample of amazing salads (arugula, goat cheese, and pears are often involved), hearty soups (tomato with your grilled cheese, anyone?), stellar pasta selections (often a ravioli containing spinach or pumpkin), and tons of goodness on tap, not open Sundays. Get there.

Delux Cafe, 100 Chandler Street, Boston, (617) 338-5258

[Photo: LukeLucas/PicasaWeb]

A sure bet for a good meal, Shabu-Zen is our runner up for the Boston C-town shabu scene. Dig: fresh ingredients, quick service, yummy sake, a wide array of veggies, delicate slivers of beef and chicken for your cooking pleasure. First time? The staff will provide instructions. Open 'til midnight on the weekends!

But Kaze is by far our fave. This Chinatown destination is a must-have for a shabu craving, conveniently located in the heart of downtown madness. And, if it makes you feel better about the authenticity of your food, we've had a few minor communication problems with the staff here over time. Lucky for us, we find this endearing and a sign that we are, in fact, in the right place for the right thing.

Shabu Zen [Official Site]
Kaze Shabu Shabu [Official Site]

[Photo: w00kie/Flickr]

Silvertone Bar & Grill: A runner-up for best dining downtown, Silvertone keeps things low-key with menu staples like their steak tips and cold martinis. Legendary M&C keeps many folks going back though, time after time. Filling for dinner, a bit too heavy for lunch. Did we mention the friendly staff?

Coda: An excellent beer selection can compliment your M&C here, chock full of peas and a little on the runny side, hot out of the kitchen. Careful, vegetarians! This one also includes pancetta (but they'll leave it out if you ask nicely).

Zon's: This Jamaica Plain treat claims the prize for now. A baked but saucy gourmet version of pasta and cheese, add sweet peas for a few bucks more and find yourself in heaven. We already love Zon's for the amazingly chill atmosphere, great burgers, and classic drinks, but their M&C topped with bread crumbs takes the award for best comfort food either side of the river. Worth a subway trip or drive out of your way. Far, far out of your way, even.

Silvertone [Official Site]
Coda [Official Site]
Zon's [Official Site]

[Photo: billaday/Flickr]

Featuring an enormous menu, from sushi to BBQ, we dig Koreana for diversity and style. We can roll in with a crowd and everyone leaves happy. The appetizers (especially the salads) rock, bulgogi and bi bim bap never disappoint, we love the fresh japchae noodle dishes, and their vegetarian menu makes this place a win for everyone, regardless of your dietary needs. Dinner wouldn't be complete without a California or avocado roll, and while we know some folks hate on Koreana's sushi bar, we say, if you're trying to cover a lot of bases, you do the best you can. We're not here to pick a fight - we're here to pick out our meats! Koreana, among other things they do right, lets you cook your own meat and veggies. DIY hasn't lost its charm, at least not when it comes to barbeque!

This is the kind of place you go for dinner and just relax. Perfect for a leisurely night out sans children or a great spot to catch up with an old friend. Their cheap lunch menu is worth checking out, too.

Koreana [MenuPages]
Koreana [Official Site]

[Photo: snak/Flickr]

What's not to love about the newly renovated Clear Conscience Cafe in Central Square? Attached to the Harvest Co-op, this friendly, bright cafe is a great spot for breakfast on the run or a lunchtime snack. Renovated and renamed from its former (and less original) Harvest Co-op Cafe, the new shop is much more welcoming.

Featuring a menu accessible for everyone, CCC (C3?) offers a wide range of scones, bagels (with tofu or regular cream cheese!), veggie and meat sandwiches, and daily soups, including vegetarian chili. With free wifi for an hour, it's a nice spot to briefly rest on their comfy sofas. During the day, the tables stay pretty emptyas people get their food to go, making it a cool place to get a little work done too. And the coffee refills in your own mug? Twenty cents off. Every little bit counts, right?

Grab a few groceries on the way out. Organic produce and knowing you're supporting a local market (other location in Jamaica Plain) is a pretty good deal.

Clear Conscience Cafe, 581 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617 661-1580

[Photo: ninjapoodle/Flickr]

We love spots that take beer seriously, and between the original The Publick House, their newly opened Provisions shop, and the soon to be opening Roadhouse, Brighton has its own tiny draught mecca in the making.

Perhaps standard in any bar, we love the fries. Hot in their little paper cone, they come with two dipping sauces that make us wish refills were free. We also think their cheese collection compliments the beer well. And the mussels...you just need to try them for yourself.

Down the block, the recently opened Publick Provisions doesn't sell beer, but they do stock a solid grocery selection and beer glasses line the walls. We're hoping they bring in some bottles soon because they're so good at that stuff - why not capitalize?

You may have to wait a while to get a seat at the House, especially on the weekends, but stay tuned for the Roadhouse and sneak in there before the buzz catches up to you.

The Publick House [MenuPages]

[Photo: Andre Charland/Flickr]

When we're spending the lunch hour near Kendall, we'll be the first admit interesting, affordable options can be a bit lacking. Don't great minds need great food?

Lucky for us, there are trucks. Every day, a whole pack of them drive into the MIT parking lot off Main Street at Ames Street, circle up in the shadow of the Stata Center, offering some of the best cheap food in the area. The diversity can't be beat, and the cash only mobile food stands almost hearken back to a day of lunch counters and sandwich pails.

Our favorites include the Mexican truck (known as Jose's but with no menu online), which makes huge, cheap burritos and amazingly fresh salads. The Middle Eastern truck, Jerusalem Cafe, has the standard shawarma and falafel, both equally solid choices. We recommend swinging by for the lentil soup too. Goosebeary's is among the most popular and has stellar Chinese food and provides yet another reason you and your wallet will both be happy. And yes, we know sometimes the trucks seem nameless, but we're all for pointing in the right direction, name or cuisine, whichever works for you.

[Photo: Dan4th/Flickr]

Nothing says summertime like tapas - small flavorful samplings of all sorts. While we recognize that technically, tapas are from Spain and some of these local establishments have food from around the globe, we're here to celebrate the small, shared plate. Here's the roundup of our favorite three this month:

Cuchi Cuchi: The flamboyant Cambridge mainstay right between Central and Kendall Squares is always fun for a glamorous or silly night out. Go for their "straight up" international dishes and stay for the wild assortment of delicious cocktails - many also available virgin if you're the designated driver. Servers in colorful garb strut around like characters in a mobster movie, and if you check their website, you might catch an evening tarot card reading to accompany your dinner.

Dali: Technically the sister restaurant of Cuchi Cuchi, we put both locales on the list because both inspire such festive creativity and fun. Dali focuses on Spanish tapas and wine in a romantic setting best for group outings with friends or an intimate date night. Dali prices are more reasonable than most, and like Cuchi Cuchi, Dali also features the artwork of local artist Mark Steel.

Tasca: Last but not least, this Brighton gem sits right off the T, making it a perfect late night spot if you decide to have a few extra drinks. Featuring more expensive main dishes with a large small plate menu, Tasca is probably the best introduction to tapas in town. Not overwhelmingly kitschy, the place is warm and inviting. Tasca also features flamenco dancing - check their calendar for the next evening of rhythmic steps.

Cuchi Cuchi [Official Site]
Dali [Official Site]
Tasca [Official Site]

[Photo: blogefl/Flickr]

Summertime in Boston gets humid like the South. While the two don't ultimately compare, we're happy to find fare that reminds us of the Gulf Coast.

So, enter Coast Cafe. Fried chicken just shy of too-greasy, just the right amount of crispy, we have a winner in Cambridge. Mac & cheese doesn't get much better than this, and their sweet potatoes are a perfect side. Fried plantains and collard greens round out the menu. Perhaps the best of all, their cornbread is worth an entire side order of its own. And that's how you've gotta order this goodness - with about two real seats in the tiny space, you're gonna need to get this amazing Southern action to go.

Closed Sunday and Monday, make sure to hit this place up during the week or on a summery Saturday for a waterfront picnic or a night in with pals who love catfish and yellow cake.

Coast Cafe [Official Site]

[Photo: serenejournal/Flickr]

There is tea all over this city. We are, after all, in Boston. Parties revolving around tea have been happening since this city began.

But when we want a sampling of some of the best, we head to Harvard Square. First stop: Dado Tea. With a fun pastry assortment, you're guaranteed to leave with your hands full. Dado has shelf after shelf of tea supplies for home, from pots and kettles to loose leaf bags and strainers. The perfect stop for a gift for a tea lover, even if that person is yourself!

Next: Tealuxe. Featuring perhaps the best selection around town, this tiny cafe is known for it's huge assortment and daily iced treats. Serving bubble teas in the summer, there's something for everyone - even hot chocolate for the tea haters among us.

Finally, and most unexpectedly: Karma Yoga Studio. While we know it's an unconventional choice, this amazingly calm studio has a lovely cafe out front that serves some of the best iced peach rooibos we've ever had. Stop in on a hot summer afternoon for a delightful sampling of many soothing teas - and grab a relaxing yoga class while you're there! Two good things under one roof is always fine by us.

Dado Tea [Official Site]
Tealuxe [Official Site]
Karma Yoga Studio and Cafe [Official Site]

[Photo: Naama/Flickr]

Lionette's has been in business for years, and their commitment to local family values and the community really show in everything they do. Lionette's only sells beef supplied from three New England farms, on which the cows are grass-fed and given no antibiotics or hormones. The rest of the meat comes from small family-run farms in New York, Quebec, and New England, ensuring that everything they sell comes right from the source. Their eggs are fresh from free-range farms in New York and Vermont. Even the veg heads among us here at MenuPages have a lot of love for the humane way Lionette's handles their farm business, including their supply of fresh and seasonal produce (as opposed to the GMO junk that you find at odd times of the year in everyday supermarkets). While they do stock mainstream organic fruits and veggies out of season (because let's face it - we've all long since stopped eating only seasonal foods and demand more), a complete list of the New England farms they patronize as often as possible can be found on their webpage. The extensive Lionette's FAQ should be consulted by those with any misgivings. And otherwise, you should be headed to the shop right about...now.

Lionette's [Official Site]

[Photo: karimian/Flickr]

While we can rave on and on about ethic dinner plates, sushi bars, and the nightlife, we'd be remiss not to mention dessert. Specifically, we're thinking of the Korean kind, found in two of our favorite bakeries, Yi Soon Bakery and Seoul Bakery. Both are easy on the wallet and carry a variety of yummy Asian baked goods. From red bean and mochi buns to tiger and taro cakes, we love the variety of sometimes simple sweets that stand out from run-of-the-mill chocolate chip cookies. You don't have to go all the way to Chinatown to find some authentic egg tarts, so why would you? And yes, we know - we'd be remiss not to mention that Infusions Tea Spa is right next door to Yi Soon. A neighborly spending spree (well, if you think dropping 10 bucks is a spree) is easy to do on this corner.

Other tips: Seoul has refreshing shaved ice in the summers, and look out when making a Yi Soon purchase - cash only.

Yi Soon Bakery, 112 Brighton Ave, Allston, (617) 254-3099
Seoul Bakery, 58 Harvard Ave, Allston, (617) 787-6500
Infusions Tea Spa [MenuPages]

[Photo: paper or plastic?/Flickr]

You know how sometimes you find a new cafe that just makes you feel right at home? You hope they're around for the long haul? Community-based Ula fills an important niche in Jamaica Plain, and in the year they've been open, we've enjoyed their amazing coffee concoctions, sweet potato sandwich, and free wifi.

In Ula, you will find a warm, friendly staff of local folks who love their job. The walls are lined with rotating art for sale. Teas are available from local distributor MEM Teas in Somerville, and everything is bought local when possible. Beautiful, delicious sandwiches made with bread fresh from Cambridge's Hi-Rise Bread Company and an assortment of veggies, spreads, and wholesome out-of-the-ordinary cafe meats like Black Forest Ham. The soup menu changes daily, as do the yummy baked goods including cupcakes, cookies, and scones. You can even stop in for breakfast - hot oatmeal or an egg dish of the day will start your morning off right.

Squeezed between Bikes Not Bombs and The Boston Beer Company in the Jamaica Plain Brewery, Ula Cafe is a real gem and only a short walk from the Stony Brook T stop. Support a local community-based shop that also happens to have exceptional espresso, muffins, and salads. You won't be disappointed.

Ula [MenuPages]
Ula Cafe [Official Site]

[Photo: digiyesica/Flickr]

When the warm weather settles into Boston, there are suddenly people everywhere. What we notice most are that these people are at least one similar thing outside: eating! While there are far too many outdoor patios to mention, we have a few for this time of year.

Our favorite for mid-range pricing and comfortable atmosphere is Harvard Square's Daedalus. With an enormous upstairs patio seating dozens under rafter-secured slow spinning ceiling fans and umbrellas on the deck, the restaurant has something for everyone. Daily risotto and fresh fish specials are always a treat, and a huge drink list rounds out the breezy experience.

Closer to downtown and known as the place to see and be seen, Stephanie's on Newbury is also known for their "sophisticated comfort food." Open year round, the sidewalk patio begins filling up the moment the chairs are put out, and dishes like their lobster salad roll keep even the ladies on the most difficult diets coming back for more. Get a reservation for this one.

And down the road but feeling miles away is our favorite almost-dive, the The Otherside Cafe. Known for catering to the bike messenger crews, OtherSide has over 80 beers, a raw food and vegan menu (as well as a variety of meat-oriented dishes), loud music, relaxed service, and a patio that's first come, first serve. In other words, get there.

Daedalus [Official Site]
Stephanie's on Newbury [Official Site]
The Otherside Cafe [MenuPages]

[Photo: mtoz/Flickr]

First off, we must explain why we love Ethiopian cuisine and its many dishes, all heaped together as one. Injera, the huge, spongey bread on which all the food is presented, is often considered the most notable of the Ethiopian dining experience. Salads, pastes, tender meats, crushed lentils, and stews fill the bread, and everything can be consumed at once, tearing apart the bread to use in place of Western flatware.

Asmara, the smaller and sometimes lesser known Cambridge/Central Square restaurant, is unparalleled because of their unbeatable homemade mead, or honey wine. In business since 1986, diners at Asama are seated around the traditional Mesob, a woven basket-like table that comfortably holds the entire shared meal. You'd better like your dinner companions if you suggest this place.

Addis Red Sea, a staple of the South End culinary scene, expanded last year to a Porter Square Cambridge location as well. A bit more Westernized than Asmara, table or Mesob seating options are available, and the standard range of mild to spicy foods are also up for communal dining debate. Are they giving their competition a run for their birr? This remains to be seen.

Asmara [Official Site]
Addis Red Sea [Official Site]

[Photo: LollyKint/Flickr]

Everyone we know seems love to Helmand, a few blocks from Kendall and right next to the Cambridgeside Galleria. Serving up some of the best food and wine in town, it's no wonder tables are tough to reserve on the weekends. Their giant oven warms the spacious dining room, and guests would perform an amazing feat if they left hungry. Specializing in the traditional pallow rice (challow for vegetarians), they feature a wide variety of lamb, beef, and chicken dishes, while their vegetarian options are equally appealing.

But, despite Helmand's notoriety, our personal favorite is the lesser known, equally delicious Ali Baba Tandoor, tucked on Mass Ave. between Porter and Davis Squares. Because prices and quality are comparable, we like this little known gem for its family appeal. Recently opening for lunch, Ali Baba Tandoor serves amazingly fresh bread, tasty chutneys, and makes the best salad with pomegranate dressing you've ever had. Their lamb is on a visible skewer in the corner just outside the kitchen, and their vegetarian sampler is the best mix of baby pumpkin, okra, and spinach in town. Need further incentive? Try the hot homemade pickles or Sheerberaing (rice pudding) for dessert. We promise you won't be disappointed.

Helmand [Official Site]
Ali Baba Tandoor [Official Site]

[Photo: Jeff Kubina/Flickr]

Chef Bruce is known for his passion and commitment to the best pairings, and his twenty-plus years of experience are obvious to anyone able to attend this summer's best kept secret. Seasonal Sips, happening every Thursday (except July 3rd, in observance of Independence Day) from 5:30-7pm, features a weekly array of the best pinots, Rieslings, and burgundys from around the globe.

We had the unparalleled opportunity to stop in for this early evening rendezvous this week, and we couldn't have been more pleased with the courteous service and knowledgeable team. More informal than suspected, guests ventured in well past 6pm, enjoying the warm atmosphere and discussions about the delicacy of pinot grapes. In between pours, trays of tuna tartar and duck with cranberries circled with bar. Lounging at the bar turned into dinner for some, and even those who excused themselves early had certainly consumed their fill.

Overlooking the beautiful harbor and in an area packed with all sort of summer festivities, every night of the week, Seasonal Sips is one of the better - if not the best - weekly wine tastings this summer.

Call Meritage for information or to reserve, 617.439.3995. $25/person

Meritage [Official Site]

[Photo: theonetruedevo/Flickr]

Rumor has it that the last time Boston foodies had their necessary fill of Burmese food, it was sometime in the '90s. Thankfully, YoMa has had its Allston doors wide open for well over a year, filling a niche we had all been missing.

There are many things to love about YoMa, from the simple dining room to the unpretentious plates to the excellent service you'll receive, no matter what time of day you stop in for a bite. The prices are incredibly low, even for Allston, and a menu for omnivores or vegetarians is available on request.

If you come in extra hungry (and well, you really should...), start with a sampler appetizer platter or the BuThee Jaw (fried long squash), and for lunch or dinner, our favorites include the Chicken Curry with Potato and the ShwePaYonTheeHin, a tempting combination of sweet pumpkin, tomatoes, and tofu. Trust us on the appetizer suggestion; even if you suspect it's too much goodness, you won't be too full for your entree. There is something almost magical about the YoMa portions. No matter who you are or what your body needs, the meal sizes are filling without guilt, the perfect size. We wish we knew how they do it.

Finishing off every meal with Htanyet, or Jaggery-based palm candies, is an unprecedented treat in an era where even a cheap dinner mint is appreciated. The warm, family-run establishment has become a second home for a few of us, and we suggest the same for you.

YoMa [MenuPages]
YoMa [Official Site]

[Photo: Andreas Haugstrup Pedersen/23.com, used with permission]

Reef Cafe has the best Lebanese falafel in town, and it is an absolute treat to visit this tiny eatery. With mom in the kitchen and friendly son Salaam up front, Reef is the best family-run establishment in Allston Rock City. Cold Vimto and other sodas in the cooler plus daily specials round out the menu, and late hours keep everyone happy. Call ahead - they'll have it ready if you're on the go, in usually ten minutes or less.

While not always everyone's first choice (most notably due to the high prices), Rami's in Brookline serves soft Israeli falafel with a variety of veggies in a pita pocket. Keeping completely kosher - no outside food or drinks of any kind allowed in - these thin pockets contain a great variety of greens, tomatoes, and a delicious tahini and hummus covering the fresh, fluffy falafels.

If Cambridge is the place you call home, you're lucky to have Moody's Falafel Palace on Mass Ave., in the heart of Central Square and open later than most of its neighboring restaurants. A drunk's destination after the bars close on the weekends (open until 3am!), it's also a lunch attraction for a reason. Their prices are low, their lentil soup is always warm, and the taste can't be beat on that side of the riverbank.

Reef Cafe [MenuPages]
Rami's [MenuPages]
Moody's Falalfel Palace [MenuPages]

[Photo: Avlxyz/Flickr]

Picco in the South End features what some might consider the Little League Park of foods: pizza and ice cream. But the fare at Picco is anything but child's play. Their homemade ice cream is the richest around, including a coffee that will keep your brain buzzing for hours and a hot fudge made from delectable Scharffen Berger chocolate. Their pizzas are amazing - we love the simple Neapolitan with fresh tomatoes and basil - and their four-cheese macaroni with cheddar, Gruyere, taleggio, and Romano is to die for. And while not food related, how cool is it that they have free wifi?

Starting, well, now, Picco is also featuring fresh ricotta from their own kitchen. As if their pizzas weren't delicious enough and often a rotating special pie is the dish du jour, you can now add in-house cheese to your already yummy pizza or pasta. With an ever-rotating drink menu that has recently added draft and craft beers, we couldn't be more pleased with this neighborhood hot spot. It's definitely worth a trip from another part of town.

Picco Restaurant [Official Site]

[Photo: Zesmereida/Flickr]

For most vegetarians, knowing where to grab the best egg salad sandwiches in town is a must. Carbs, protein, and the occasional veggies are a great lunch on the go, and if you're lucky, they're sometimes big enough for two meals.

Take the overstuffed version from Rubin's. Packed to overflowing with nothing but the best kosher egg salad Brookline has to offer, it's hard to find a better deal on such an enormous NY-style sandwich. The Rubin's style salad can also be picked up any time from their deli, made fresh and for sale by the pound.

If you find yourself in Cambridge, we go with the overwhelming recommendations and point you in the direction of Darwin's Ltd. Right outside Harvard Square, this little cafe and grocery has free wifi and pretty crazy made-to-order sandwiches, including a strange but delicious variety of our pal, egg salad. We admit this is a non-conformist choice, but we love the topping selection (avocado!) and the slightly vinegary mix of egg and...something else? We can't be sure about anything but the good price and the way it this sandwich can calm our craving.

We also recommend heading a bit further north, halfway to Arlington, and stopping by Pemberton Farms. Known for the lush garden center, Pemberton also has a fully stocked deli and though their egg salad isn't available every day, it is consistently some of the best we've found. Get it to go on marble rye with tomato. Outstanding.

Rubin's Kosher Deli [Official Site]
Darwin's Ltd. [Official Site]
Pemberton Farms [Official Site]

[Photo: star5112/Flickr]

Father's Day is just around the corner, prompting many of us to consider where to take the special men in our lives for lunch. We're big fans of Boston brunch done right, and since not too any area restaurants go all out with Father's Day menus, we've picked a few of our favorites that have a little something for everyone.

[Fire & Ice], with locations all over town, has fresh mixes to please a crowd. We think you can't go wrong with their selection and variety, and it's one of our top choices for a diverse group with special needs and desires.

Beacon Hill's infamous [Paramount] has brunch options for everyone. From waffles topped with heaps of fruit to sandwiches and sweet potato fries, their menu is always a treat. Not great for large groups, their rotating seating process somehow still works after all these years.

[Tremont 647] features fast, friendly service and a diverse menu, particularly suited for the brunch-seeking folk. Huge slabs of savory bacon and potatoes with your meal make us smile. They also have excellent drinks from the bar and fresh OJ to keep your hydrated in the heat!

Fire & Ice [Official Site]
Paramount [Official Site]
Tremont 647 [Official Site]

[Photo: urabnshoregirl/Flickr]

Boston has no shortage of excellent Japanese fare, but the new kid in town - Genki Ya in Brookline - is about the best there is for a price almost anyone can afford. Taking over the space Nori used to occupy, Genki Ya is a welcome addition to the neighborhood.

Genki Ya specializes in organic, all natural Japanese cuisine. Their large, diverse menu caters to vegans and omnivores alike, with something for everyone in between. Lunch specials run no higher than $12, some combos under $10. Appetizers range from simple miso and house salads to the more exotic (we recommend the Ohidashi, organic spinach with a delicious house sesame sauce). For the seafood lovers, be sure to try the Alligator and Crazy rolls - both huge and both wonderful. Vegetarians and vegans will be especially pleased to find a wide variety of veggie and fruit rolls, including our favorite Hawaii roll, mixing flavors from fresh mango, avocado, and tempura sweet potato. And, party platters for any size group are also available.

The place has been slammed since they opened several weeks ago, but their service is consistently friendly as they get into a solid groove. Good news travels fast. If you don't opt for take-out, go for a late lunch on the weekend and hope you can find a seat!

Genki Ya, 398 Harvard Avenue, Brookline, (617) 277-3100

[Photo: | Sage/Flickr]

We thought last week was bad. With temperatures reaching season highs for this year, we're a cranky bunch unless we find something to keep us cool. Enter these fine local establishments with some of the best iced coffee and espresso beverages in town.

Francesca's Espresso Bar in the South End has some of the best coffee beans that side of the river. Sample their iced coffee, available as regular or decaf, and then grab a bag of beans to go. We've heard their staff can be a little dramatic or inattentive, but their decaf cold coffee - a rare find - is worth the potential fuss. Try pairing your beverage with one of their enormous cupcakes!

One of Allston's newest gems, 2nd Cup Cafe, features a wide variety of teas, coffees, and homemade pastries and sandwiches, all reasonably priced and delicious at that! But while their falafel wraps may be yummy, we love this Brighton Avenue location for coffee on the run. Try their lattes or an Americano - pretty amazing. They always have iced coffee on hand too, which we adore.

New addition to Harvard Square, Crema Cafe has a great drink menu full of fun and creativity. Very friendly staff will create just about anything you can dream of, and the cafe atmosphere is great if you need a place to rest your feet for a while.

Even the Paris Creperie, not particularly known for their coffee, has a delicious brew worth stopping for. We like the Brookline and Beacon Hill location equally - you can't go wrong with their winning combo of fresh and sweet goodies and a good house blend to boot.

Francesca's Espresso Bar [MenuPages]
2nd Cup Cafe [Official Site]
Crema Cafe [Official Site]
Paris Creperie [Official Site]

[Photo: sfllaw/Flickr]

Boston may be of the nation's largest cities, but it's also one that sleeps. After midnight, pickings become slim, and a knowledgeable foodie needs to know where to get his or her eat on. Here are some of our favorite places to find good eats after midnight while simultaneously avoiding the cramped pizza joints filled with drunk college kids.

Franklin Cafe in the South End serves a full menu until 1am every night and is a neighborhood favorite. Even folks from around town trek down south for their eclectic samplings and creative drink menu.

North End gem Bova's Bakery serves food all night long, provided you're cool with loud hair metal as a soundtrack for eating your calzone (and we definitely are). The usually one-man staff is extremely friendly and classic Beantown.

Back Bay's The Otherside Cafe serves late on the patio and inside, proudly featuring Boston's first raw menu in addition to their vegan and vegetarian staples. With killer beer, coffee, and tea menus, the place is packed into the night for a reason.

Franklin Cafe [Official Site]
Bova's Bakery [Official Site]
The Otherside Cafe [MenuPages]

[Photo: LearningToSee/Flickr]

With temperatures reaching into the 80s this week, more than one thirsty Bostonian struck out in search of refreshment. Sumer is officially here, and we never turn down an opportunity to consume frozen dairy. With ice cream obsessions that only become worse in the warm weather, we've been on the prowl for the best frappes and milkshakes in town.

Herrell's Renaissance Cafe in Allston features a variety of ice cream flavors, and their laid back staff is always playing some serious rock to accompany your frozen fixations. We dig the local scene and characters who often populate the corner cafe, but watch out for the guaranteed brain freeze that comes free of charge with your selection.

Open notoriously late, until midnight in most neighborhoods, J.P. Licks is a local favorite and rarely fails to meet our high expectations. Their mostly-student staff is consistently friendly, and their shakes are thick and rich. We love mixes that include white coffee or their classic chocolate. Also keep an eye peeled for their seasonal Sox/Pats-themed specials.

Emack & Bolio's also keeps us cool with their amazing concoctions. A wide variety of smoothies on the menu are a great warm weather treat, but we secretly pine for their deliciously thick frappes. A cake batter milkshake anyone?

Tell us your local milkshake must-haves and keep a look-out for more summery treat suggestions as the summer swelter sets in on us!

Herrell's [Official Site]
JP Licks [Official Site]
Emack and Bolio's [Official Site]

We think it's brunch season in Boston, though one may argue that it never isn't brunch season. Something about the birds chirping and the sun shining and the breeze drifting down the streets makes us want to get up late and saunter into our favorite brunch spots. We brunch a lot, so our top picks are everywhere.

• You may consider the Globe Bar & Cafe a popular Boylston St. bar. It is that, so it's fitting that they seek to take care of you when you come back in the morning. Try the smoked salmon benedict, with warm focaccia and mixed greens.

• In Union Square in Somerville is a hidden gem called simply the Neighborhood Restaurant. You can sit outside under a ton of grape vines, and you are given the option of orange juice or coffee, grits or fruit salad. You are not paying for those. The menu is filled with everyone's brunch staples, and the food is plentiful. No wonder there's a line.

• The community feel of Veggie Planet Pizza makes the food taste even better, we think. Waffles covered in nuts and berries are delicious, and even the vegans in your life can enjoy the tofu scramble. With nice music (of course - it's at Passim!), this is a calm and fuzzy-feeling brunch.

Globe Bar and Cafe [Official Site]
Neighborhood Restaurant [Chowhound]
Veggie Planet [Official Site]

[Photo: Foodaphilia]

Oh, the humidity! The air is like shaving cream, and our spirits and feet are dragging! What could possibly save the day? Oh, right: Italian soda! What can be more refreshing than a cold and sparkling water flavored lightly with sugary syrup? We've replaced our afternoon coffee with it, with a little help from these guys...

• Espresso Royale Cafe never flavors their sodas too much, and the flavors they have are many. Our favorites are blackberry and raspberry, but the word from the friendly baristas is the new banana syrup is surprisingly delicious, as well.
• A raspberry soda from 1369 Coffee House is a little too sweet for our taste, but we know many people like their Italian sodas saturated in color. If that's your bag, you've found a home in Inman. Or Central.
• Being a Spanish cafe, Cafe Pamplona doesn't seem like the prime spot for Italian anything. Believe us, though - it is one of the best! Bonus: you can sip it on the Bow St. patio.

Espresso Royale Cafe [Official Site]
1369 Coffee House [Official Site]

[Photo: Small World Coffee]

It's strange when the local newspapers are mostly occupied by coverage of every graduation on this side of the state, but we all know what it means: the students are leaving, and we have our city back! Here are some on-campus favorites you can't try outside of summer and winter breaks.

Boston University The Terriers have gone home, and now we have Comm Ave. back! Sort of. At the very least, enjoy Noodle St without hearing about what a drag it is to be studying pre-med while researching the best residencies in the country. Pick your own topic of conversation and your own curry dish. We recommend the yellow curry to those who seek out the mild but are ready to kick it up a notch.

Harvard University The charms of Grendel's Den in the summer far outweigh their school-year counterparts. Go for their express lunch and have a soup and half-sandwich combo - maybe even sneak in a half-pitcher of sangria before you head back to work. We won't tell.

Northeastern University: Okay, we all know that the best way to shave off some of that 5-year degree that goes along with co-op is to go to school in the summer. So no, you cannot go to Tigerlily and avoid the NU DogHouse at the same time. We would, however, highly recommend a walk in the opposite direction on Huntington. The Squealing Pig offers a fine selection of beers (we like the Franziskaner hefeweizen) and rather delicious food (like the brie and cranberry toasted sandwich).

Noodle St. [Official Site]
Grendel's Den [Official Site]
Tigerlily [MenuPages]
The Squealing Pig [MenuPages]

[Photo: La Shawn Barber's Corner]

Of all the places in Boston one can have a picnic, the Arboretum is our favorite. With lush grass, bubbling brooks, and thousands of varieties of plants and trees, it is the perfect urban escape, with only the occasional skyline landmark peeking out behind the trees. Due to its many iron gate entrances, takeout options around the border are plentiful.

• On Centre St., between Knoll St. and Weld St., is one of the best Mexican restaurants in the Roslindale area. Yucatan, which also has a location on Washington St., has a fine selection of "Mexican food made by Mexicans". We are absolutely hooked on the ceviche.
• Village Sushi and Grill is located on Corinth St. in Roslindale, and has been making the Square smell good