AROUND TOWN – MY PERSONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
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CAMBRIDGE
Home to a culturally diverse population of over 95,000. Over fifty languages may be heard on the streets of the city, including Spanish, Creole, Portuguese, Chinese, Amharic, and Korean. Children from 82 different countries of origin attend its public schools, and college students from around the world study at Harvard, Radcliffe, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Lesley College. The heavy industries of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries have been replaced by technology-based enterprises, including electronics, self-developing film and cameras, software, and biotechnology research.
Recommendations
Little Donkey. Central Square's hottest dining establishment, LD is the place to go for a vibrant, fun hangout with globally inspired shared plates.
505 Massachusetts Ave | 617.945.1008
Catalyst in Kendall Sq. for trendy, upscale dining
300 Technology Sq. Cambridge | 617.576.3999
Life Alive in Central Sq. for amazing organic vegan food
765 Mass Ave. Cambridge | 617.354.5433
The American Repertory Theatre. Offering performances year round, The Harvard supported A.R.T is the go-to theatre for thoughtful, interesting and provocative performances.
Lobe Drama Center 64 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA | 617.547.8300
Bars and clubs/ venues
Club Passim.
Intimate, iconic folk-music club where big names like Joan Baez & Bob Dylan got their start.
Address: 47 Palmer St, Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: (617) 492-7679
Lizard Lounge.
Cambridge Common's dim basement club for local musicians, open mike & popular poetry slams.
Address: 1667 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
The Middle East Restaurant and Nightclub.
Smaller than its downstairs sibling, this enduring rock venue features underground & indie bands.
Address: 472-480 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
https://www.mideastoffers.com/
Phoenix Landing.
Part sports pub, part dance club, this multitasker offers modern Irish pub grub, DJs & trivia night..
https://www.thephoenixlanding.com/
Address: 512 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139
THE WEST END
The West End, once a barren part of the city, home only to a handful of Sports bars and the TD Bank Garden, is now a thriving community that bridges Beacon Hill, The Waterfront, Government Center and Charlestown. Many residential and commercial buildings have brought this part of Boston to live. In recent years, this part of town has transformed from a transient cut through to a destination with regular events, restaurants and access to the Harborwalk.
Recommendations
TD Bank Garden. Catch a live Celtics or Bruins game, when in season! Also the go to arena for live music performances year round.
100 Ledgends Way, Boston | 617.624,1050
The Harborwalk. Hop on Boston's famous 43 mile linear park that runs along the harbor from East Boston to the Neponset River, with an assortment of sites and stops along the way.
THE NORTH END/WATERFRONT
Next to the North End sits a historic collection of wharfs along Boston's inner harbor. Many of the original buildings have been converted from warehouses to lofts and luxury condominiums. Near to the North End, the Financial District, Haymarket, and the Seaport, the Waterfront offers fine dining and shops along with splendid views of the ocean. The North End & Waterfront are most famous for their plethora of Italian restaurants and strong ties to Italian roots. With a different Italian Festival every weekend throughout the summer, there rarely is a dull moment in the North End.
Recommendations
Monica’s Family-Style Italian, the very best Boston's North End has to offer with traditional Italian cuisine in a comfortable environment.
130 Salem St., Boston | 617.742.4104
Neptune Oyster for amazing fresh seafood, oysters on the half shell, and a warm lobster roll. This small but comfortable establishment does not take reservations so get there early.
63 Salem St., Boston | 617.742.3474
The New England Aquarium. A gorgeous seaside aquarium offering a giant ocean tank, IMAX theatre, whale watching, and animal rehabilitation. Catch a ferry from the Aquarium to the Boston Harbor Islands or take a trip to Cape Cod on the high speed ferry.
1 Central Wharf, Boston | 617.973.5200
BEACON HILL
The beacon on this hill that used to warn settlers of foreign invasions is long gone, but today Beacon Hill is a close-knit community in a downtown location with a passion for its historic roots. The neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and brick rowhouses directly border the Boston Common and the Public Garden, American’s first botanical garden. The gold leaf of the State House Rotunda adorns the hill and shines across the Common. A great place for families, this historic neighborhood is a blend of classic Boston architecture and expansive green space.
Recommendations
Paramount, a Boston staple for breakfast, lunch or dinner, 7 days a week.
44 Charles St, Boston | 617.720.1152
Scampo at the liberty hotel for incredible Italian food an upbeat atmosphere, and delicious wine selection.
215 Charles Street Boston | 617.536.2100
The Boston Common & Public Garden. Fredrick Law Olmstead's designed park is the heart of Boston. Stroll through Boston Common to the Public Garden where you can take a ride on the swan boats in season.
DOWNTOWN/MIDTOWN
Downtown is really the heart of the city. Many companies and agencies have their headquarters in the area, and City Hall and the State House are also located in this bustling district.
A complete revitalization to this once hazardous part of town has brought new life to what was once strictly a corporate/business district. Luxurious residential condo buildings, world-class hotels, and top-notch restaurants are overflowing in Downtown/Midtown. Access into Boston Common, the historic Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall, or on to the Rose Kennedy Greenway couldn’t be any easier.
Recommendations
Trade for the after-work crowd and great bar bites, Trade offers something for everyone in a lively atmosphere.
540 Atlantic Ave. Boston | 617.451.1234
South Street Diner, Boston’s staple “greasy spoon” for generations.
178 Kneeland St. Boston | 617.350.0028
The Theatre District. Home to an assortment of historic theater houses, Boston's downtown has year round performances from the world famous Boston Ballet, to Broadway in Boston, to standup performances and the Blue Man Group.
The Wig shop
Dance - Clubs
Caveau
Boston’s newest Nightclub from COJE GROUP
https://www.bostonmagazine.com/restaurants/2023/05/05/caveau-boston-nightlife-downtown/
Address: 1 Center Plz, Boston, MA 02108
Mariel and Mariel Underground
https://www.marielofficial.com/
Upscale venue for Cuban specialties & craft cocktails served in dreamy, elegant surround
And one of Boston’s most popular clubs from COJE Group
Address: 10 Post Office Square, Boston, MA 02109
https://marielunderground.com/
Bijou
Sleek, late-night club in circa-1882 former theater drawing lines for sets by international DJs.
Address: 51 Stuart St, Boston, MA 02116
The Rose Kennedy Greenway. A fabulous park space that bridges the downtown and the Waterfront, the "Greenway" is the heart of the downtown and offers year round activities, including seasonal vendors, food trucks and even zip lining.
SEAPORT/FORT POINT
Tucked between the South End, Downtown, and South Boston is Seaport/Fort Point. Prior to the age of the automobile, Fort Point Channel was the critical link between docking ships and rail cars in Boston. Much of the land primarily occupied by warehouse and manufacturing is now being developed for residential usage. Now you’ll find a vibrant art community, some of the city’s hottest new restaurants, and magnificent lofts with open floor plans featuring elements of original architecture.
Recommendations
Row 34. A must have? The warm, buttered Lobster Roll… and oysters, of course
383 Congress St., Boston | 617.553.5900
Institute of Contemporary Art for international art exhibits, mind expanding talks and lectures, and hip parties and events on the Harbor.
25 Harbor Shore Drive, Boston | 617.478.3100
WOODS HILL PIER 4
Easygoing restaurant with harbor views serving oysters, seafood specialties & steak, plus cocktails.
Address: 300 Pier 4 Blvd., Boston, MA 02210
https://www.woodshillpier4.com/
SCORPION BAR
Stylish, vibrant haunt offering creative spins on Mexican eats, plus craft drinks & DJ nights.
58 Seaport Blvd #200, Boston, MA 02210
https://www.scorpionboston.com/
ENVOY – lookout rooftop bar
The Envoy doesn't just welcome travelers. We welcome adventurers. Visionaries. Discerning pioneers who aren't content to settle for the standard stay.
https://www.theenvoyhotel.com/
Address: 70 Sleeper St, Boston, MA 02210
COMMITTEE
Big hot spot with multiple lounges & bars serving Greek-Med meze, plus tiki cocktails on the patio.
Address: 50 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210
ST REGIS- SAVR
With cozy bistro vibes and wood-fired everything, Savr debuts in the Seaport District on July 13, located at the swanky St. Regis Residences—and it’s open to the public, not just to residents of the luxe amenity-filled building.
Address: 150 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA 02210
Grace By Nia
Soul meets the Seaport, with Grace by Nia. The alluring, modern-day supper club puts a new twist on the timeless charm and the decadent aesthetic of supper clubs from a bygone era
60 Seaport Blvd #325, Boston, MA 02210
SOUTH END
The South End, with its blocks of Victorian brick row houses, upscale restaurants, and art galleries, is swiftly becoming one of the most popular places to live in Boston. Many of the row houses underwent renovation starting in the 1960s, and today the neighborhood is filled with a diverse mix of families, young professionals, a gay and lesbian community, and a thriving artistic center. Trendy restaurants brush shoulders with coffee shops and Mom & Pop grocery stores along Tremont Street and its side streets, all the way down to Washington Street, which is experiencing its own artistic revival. A significant number of artists are moving in, and galleries are cropping up around the area to show their works.
Recommendations
Toro. The authentic Spanish Tapas restaurant is a must-do for a fun and lively atmosphere with amazing food
1704 Washington St., Boston | 617.536.4300
The South End Buttery. A classic neighborhood bakery, this charming South End staple serves everything from breakfast to dinner plus a rotating assortment of prepared foods to-go.
314 Shawmut Ave., Boston | 617.482.1015
The Sunday SOWA Market. for local crafts and gourmet foods plus SOWA First Fridays hosted by local artists and galleries who open their studios and preview their works on the first Friday of every month.
460 Harrison Ave., Boston
BEE HIVE
International cuisine, creative cocktails & live music in a happening brick-lined venue
541 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116
https://www.beehiveboston.com/
THE SALTY PIG
Pork-focused bistro offering American comfort food, charcuterie & craft beers in loftlike digs.
130 Dartmouth St, Boston, MA 02116
COPPA
Small, hip spot specializing in Italian small plates, pizza, pasta & charcuterie including salumi.
Address: 253 Shawmut Ave, Boston, MA 02118
BOSTON CHOPS
Upscale, woody steakhouse with surf & turf, classic sides & nose-to-tail specialties.
1375 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118
BAR MEZZANA
Sleek Italian spot dishing up elevated favorites in airy environs straight from the Amalfi coast.
Address: 360 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
BACK BAY
Once a stagnant pool of water behind the Public Garden, Back Bay now holds some of the most exclusive real estate in the city. A stroll down Newbury St. will take you from high fashion to hip ice cream parlors, and a walk back up Commonwealth Ave. will let you take in some of the most elegant townhouses in the city. With its rows of historic homes and a vibrant commercial district to boot, the Back Bay is an elegant and exciting place to live. It’s also home to the Public Gardens and Boston Common.
Recommendations
Uni has perhaps the hippest meal in Boston, Japanese shared plats and sushi, but be sure to stay up for their late-night Ramen ( 11PM to 1AM on Thu, Fri, & Sat), and treat yourself to their delectable caviar menu.
370 Commonwealth Ave | 617.536.7200
Flour for anything sweet, and the Breakfast sandwich, with locations in the South End and Fort Point, too
131 Clarendon St., Boston | 617.437.7700
The bar at Mistral a place that never goes out of style and my go-to Friday night dinner spot for the Tuna Tartar and the Tenderloin Pizza, plus an amazing Sunday Brunch
223 Columbus Ave, Boston | 617.867.9300
FACCIA A FACCIA and BAR PALLINO
Faccia a Faccia is the new coastal Italian restaurant from award-winning chefs and restaurateurs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette. Led by Executive chef Brian Rae, the restaurant focuses on seasonal dishes highlighting the diverse cuisine of the coastal Italian region, drawing inspiration from their travels across Liguria, Sicily, Sardinia, and more.
https://facciaafacciaboston.com/
Address: 278 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116
Contessa – The Newbury Hotel
Italian-inspired cuisine, brunch & wine offered in an opulent rooftop restaurant with city views.
https://contessaristorante.com/boston/
Address: Rooftop, 3 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116
Lolita
A Mexican outlaw meets Mexican royalty within dimly lit rooms brimming with gothic sophistication
https://www.lolitamexican.com/
Address: 271 Dartmouth St, Boston, MA 02116
The lenox Hotel – City Table
Relaxed, yet elegant spot in the Lenox Hotel crafting New American comfort eats & classic cocktails.
Address: 61 Exeter St, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: (617) 536-5300
https://www.lenoxhotel.com/boston-hotel-restaurants/
Ramsey’s Kitchen
Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay's upscale spot for global bites & British staples like beef Wellington.
https://www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/en/us/ramsays-kitchen/locations/boston
774 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199
Thinking cup
Trendy cafe featuring high-end coffee & espresso drinks, plus housemade pastries & sandwiches.
https://www.thinkingcup.online/
Address: 85 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116
LA BURDICK
Charming artisanal chocolatier with a cafe offering high-end chocolate, pastries & hot cocoa.
220 Clarendon St, Boston, MA 02116
https://www.burdickchocolate.com/
Pinky’s
Serving unique and colorful cocktails and globally-inspired plates in a fun and elevated atmosphere.
Address: 269 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116
The Commonwealth Avenue Mall & Esplanade. One of the greatest assets Boston has to offer is our beautifully landscaped green spaces, The Olmstead designed "Mall" on Commonwealth Avenue and the Esplanade along the Charles River are worthy of a stroll in any season.
FENWAY / KENMORE
The Fenway, perhaps best known as the home for Boston’s "boys of summer," is more than just a ballpark. It is actually a dense urban neighborhood with a considerable amount of green space (the "Fens"). Although the Fenway consists of a large number of college students, it also contains a significant population of professionals, young and old. The famous Lansdowne Street, bordering the Mass Pike on the North and Fenway Park on the South, is home to many of Boston's most popular clubs, live music venues, and watering holes. If you travel the street, keep your eyes open for the occasional home run ball that clears the Green Monster.
Recommendations
The Museum of Fine Arts the perfect place to get lost any afternoon; offering an extensive permanent collection as well as many exhibitions, events and performances. Also host the Annual School of the MFA Art Sale where one can purchase pieces from emerging artists.
465 Huntington Ave. Boston | 617.267.9300
Isabella Stuart Gardner Museum Rich in history, this small museum remains in the exact condition as its benefactor set it up. Known for its infamous unsolved heist in 1990, the empty frames still hang on the wall at The Gardner. Offering an unusual and eclectic collection as well as unforgettable performances year round.
25 Evans Way Boston | 617.566.1401
The James P. Kelleher Rose Garden Small, charming garden with a variety of rose bushes, plus statues, a fountain & arched trellises.
73 Park Drive, Boston
Fenway Park, America’s most beloved ballpark, for its games, concerts, and year-round tours
4 Yawkey Way, Boston | 877.733.7699
BROOKLINE/CHESTNUT HILL
The perfect mix of community and history. Brookline became an exclave in 1873 when the neighboring town of West Roxbury was annexed by Boston. Brookline refused to be annexed after the Brookline-Boston annexation debate of 1873. Several private primary and secondary schools, including the Beaver Country Day School, Brimmer and May School, British School of Boston, Dexter School, Maimonides School, and The Park School are located in the town. Chestnut Hill began as a neighborhood for friends and family of the original landowners. While it is now surrounded by continuous suburban development, its close proximity to downtown Boston makes Brookline & Chestnut Hill an appealing residential neighborhood.
Recommendations
Barcelona Wine Bar & Tapas
1700 Beacon St, Brookline | 617.264.8900
The Larz Anderson Park in Brookline and Chestnut Hill
23 Newton Street, Brookline | 617.730.2069
Burro Bar
Cheery Mexican eatery emphasizing creatively stuffed tacos & a large tequila selection.
https://www.burrobarboston.com/location/burro-bar-brookline/
Address: 1665 Beacon St, Brookline, MA 02445
The Abbey
Cozy eatery & bar offering pub-style New American bites & a variety of scotches, plus late hours.
http://abbeyrestaurant.com/brookline/
Address: 1657 Beacon St, Brookline, MA 02445