2000 Boston Guide

Alloro - 351 Hanover St., Boston  617/523-9268  [KKK  $$] –Southern Italian cuisine with a Portuguese influence. There’s always a wait, and the A/C is none too efficient but no one seems to care…the fresh, simple dishes that emerge from the kitchen are that good. Open for Lunch Sat and Sun.  

Ambrosia on Huntington - 116 Huntington Ave., Boston  617/247-2400  [KKK  $$$] - Chef-owner Tony Ambrose is another gifted alum of the Bostonian Hotel kitchen.  His oh-so-romantic Ambrosia is a heady blend of French and Asian influences... A treat for the eye as well as the palate.  This spot is super-hot so book well in advance.  

Anago- Lenox Hotel, 65 Exeter St., Boston 617/266-6222 [KKK $$$$] – Recently relocated from Cambridge to the trendy Back Bay, Anago is even more of a happening scene than ever. Excellent innovative American cuisine is served to a young and upwardly mobile crowd, in a room that is lovely, high-ceilinged, and deliciously red.  

Anthony's Pier 4 - 140 Northern Ave., Boston  617/482-6262  [KKK  $$$] - Winner of the Business Executives Dining Award first prize year after year, Anthony's is an eternal Boston seafood tradition.  Always excellent:  Oysters Rockefeller, Dover Sole, The Traditional Clambake, and Shelley's personal favorite... The Baked, Stuffed Lobster.  Although some, including Chuck, say Pier 4 is past its prime and touristy, the view of incoming vessels thru the glass waterfront walls and a bite of the Grand Marnier Soufflé stop most critics in their tracks.  

Artu - 6 Prince St.; 89 Charles St., Boston  617/742-4336 or 617/227-9023  [KK  $$] - We include Artu's because Boston magazine claims they make the best meat sandwich in Boston.  To quote, "the roast lamb (sandwich) is overflowing with succulent, thinly sliced meat, enough for two meals," and, "The prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, tomato and basil is an ideal blend of tastes and textures."  Sounds pretty good to us.  

Aujourd'Hui - Four Seasons Hotel, 200 Boylston St., Boston  617/338-4400  [KKKK  $$$$] - French, Four Seasons, Four Stars.  Very, very expensive but very, very good.  The service here is incomparable.  And save room for dessert... the pastry chef is some kind of genius.  You'll want to dress up for this one.  

The Barking Crab – 88 Sleeper St., Boston 617/426-2722 [KK $$] – Summer fun is not complete without a visit to this wacky outdoor lobster shack on the waterfront. Gobs of lobster and bucketfuls of steamers are eaten at community picnic tables. Your tablemates are usually quite congenial…due in part to brimming plastic cups full of beer.  

Bay Tower Room - 60 State St, 33rd floor, Boston 723-1666 [KKKK $$$$] – Sky-high dining and dancing, offering what is said to be the most beautiful view in town.  

Bartley's Burger Cottage - 1246 Mass Ave., Cambridge  617/354-6559  [KKK  $] - A Harvard Square tradition, Bartley's does bodacious burgers 42 ways... also good... the onion rings, salads and sandwiches, and a roast stuffed chicken with homemade mashed potatoes.  Tasty and eminently affordable. Open 11-9 , best Frappes award, Boston Globe. No CC’s.  

Biba - 272 Boylston St., Boston  617/426-5684  [KKK  $$$] - Eclectic to the max! A unique style and menu was created by chef owner, Lydia Shire, and the tradition continues gloriously with current chef, Susan Regis. (She was awarded the James Beard Best Chef in the Northeast in ’98.) A gorgeous room with a grand spiral staircase and 2^nd floor windows overlooking the Pulic Gardens. It’s way glamorous, but so cool that there is no dress code. By the way, the bar at the Biba is a must for the local BPs on the prowl.  

Blue Diner - 150 Kneeland St., Boston   617/695-0087  [KK  $] - Open 24/7, this 50's Diner does deluxe comfort food that's ready whenever you need it.  All the usuals plus specials like Pork Loin Stuffed with Granny Smith Apples, a really sensational Homemade Corned Beef Hash, and some very respectable Barbecue.  Whether you're coming off the night-shift or you're still up from last night's party, you'll feel right at home in this congenial all-day and nighter.  

Blue Room - 1 Kendall Sq, Cambridge 494-9034 [KKK $$$] – One of Julia Childs favorites…need we say more? The menu is eclectic and tantalizing, and Chef Steve Johnson deserves all the credit. You’ll find lots of grilled meats on the menu (and they are much more interesting than the term implies,) but not to worry, there are always at least two vegetarian choices offered nitely. Intriguing wines. If you’re a serious foodie, you gotta check this place out.  

Bob the Chef - 604 Columbus Ave., Boston  617/536-6204  [KK  $] - For those who can't enjoy a town that doesn't have at least one outstanding SOUL FOOD RESTAURANT (and that's everybody at CKP), let's hear it for Bob the Chef.  He cooks up mouth-watering collards, ham hocks, ribs, black-eyed peas, excellent fried chicken, BBQ and of course, bakes those fluffy biscuits and gooey sweet potato pies.   Fattening, friendly, fun.  

Bristol Lounge - Four Seasons Hotel, 200 Boylston St., Boston  617/338-4400  [KKK  $$] - Have your own Boston Tea Party at the Four Seasons Bristol Lounge.  Besides offering wonderful food and drink any time, this charming street-level cafe is said to do the very best High Tea in town.... Finger sandwiches, Scottish scones, Devon shire cream, Viennese pastries, assorted breads and jams, the works... all perfectly done and graciously served.  Tea begins at 3pm and ends on the dot of 4:30, daily.

Bull & Finch Pub - 84 Beacon St., Boston  617/227-9600  [K  $] - Sam, Diane, Norm, Coach... get the drift?  Yes, this is the real life spot that inspired "Cheers."  Of course, it's mostly too crowded and touristy these days, but loyalists claim it's still friendly and fun (especially week nights).  Burgers, beer and booze abound.  

Cafe Budapest - Copley Sq. Hotel, 90 Exeter St., Boston  617/266-1979  [KKK  $$$] - If you get a hankering for Hungarian, try the Cafe Budapest in the Copley Square Hotel.  Mirrors, wood paneling, crimson leather and ruby red goblets set a romantic backdrop for a meal that's gloriously rich in flavors and textures.  A full course dinner for two includes a Mixed Grill of Filet Mignon, Weiner Schnitzel, Pork Chops and more, plus heavenly pastries and coffee.  Also, as you'd expect, great soups, stroganoff and strudel.  You won't leave hungry.  

Café Vittoria - 296 Hanover St., Boston  617/227-7606  [KK  $] - Especially good for late-night cappuccino, cannoli and people watching in the North End.  Full bar.  Casual, crowded and the desserts are oh-so-good.  Occupies 4 floors, one smoke-free.  Hours:  8am till Midnight, daily.  

Capital Grille - 359 Newbury St., Boston  617/262-8900  [KKK  $$$] - Considered by many to be Boston's premier steak house, the warm, clubby Capital Grille offers dry-aged beef galore... sirloin, porterhouse, filet mignon and prime rib, all perfectly prepared and flawlessly served.  Try starting with the Pan-fried Calamari with Hot Cherry Peppers or the succulent Crab and Lobster Cakes.  Desserts are simple but good... like their perfect White Chocolate Mousse.  Offers a significant wine cellar and is cigar-smoker friendly.  

Charlie's Sandwich Shoppe - 429 Columbus Ave., Boston  617/536-7669  [KK  $] - For a super-delicious, super-cheap breakfast in the South End, this old time diner is the place.  Scrumptious blueberry and banana pancakes, outstanding omelettes and a mouth-watering turkey hash are just a few of the dishes that keep folks coming back again and again.  Of course, great sandwiches can be had at lunchtime (homemade tuna and chicken salads are winners).   Charlie's is closed for dinner and all day Sunday.  

Chez Henri - 1 Shepard St., Cambridge  617/354-8980  [KK  $$] - The cool one in Cambridge... Cuisine is primarily French with a little Cuban mixed in.  The lights are a bit too low and service can be slow, but word is you won't care about any of that once you've sampled Corrina Mozo's divine frog legs or the beyond-compare Paella.  

Clio - Eliot Suite Hotel, 370A Commonwealth Avenue(Mass Ave), Boston 536-7200 [ KKKK+ $$$$+] – Ultra-chic eats in the swanky dining room of the Eliot Suite Hotel. Luscious New French cuisine created by Chef Ken Oringer. Fabulous faux-leopard carpet and sensuous lighting add to the mix. Expensive, extravagant, and fun.  

Country Life Vegetarian - 200 High St., Boston   617/951-2534  [KK  $] - A great find in the financial district across from the Waldorf, Country Life appeals to anyone who enjoys the freshest of whole foods, prepared simply and well.  Prices are small... soups are around $3.00, entrees between $6.00 and $8.00.  Great spinach soup, wonderful Vegetable & Tofu Lasagna and a tasty Brown Rice & Broccoli Casserole, plus a 35-item salad bar and a 15-choice Fresh Fruit & Nut bar.  Always 2 or 3 varieties of fresh-baked, whole grain breads.  Lunch is served from 11:30-3pm, dinner from 5-8pm, with a Sunday brunch from 10-3.  Call their menu hotline for daily specials (617/951-2462).  

Dali - 415 Washington St, Somerville 661-3254 [KKK $$] – Authentic…the real-deal from Spain. Tapas is the specialty of this hugely popular, close-to-Cambridge hot spot. Over 40 tantalizing tasties are offered daily, along with superb sangria, terrific wines, a clothesline hung with lingerie, and flamenco-dancing waiters. Be sure to try the Saffron-Battered Shrimp and the Baked Goat Cheese with Tomato and Basil.  

Durgin Park - Fanueil Hall Marketplace, 30 N. Market St., Boston  617/227-2038  [KK  $$] -  Long lines, noise and  crowds (and you share a long table for 10) have made this a huge tradition as the place for Prime Rib (among Bostonians and city visitors alike).  Although Chuck feels it has lost a lot over the years, Shelley is a fan.  The food is good and the portions are hearty.  For dinner (the noontime meal), other specialties include Poor Man's Roast Beef and Yankee Pot Roast.   Other old favorites:  classic clam chowder, perfect Boston Baked Beans, Fish and Chips, wonderful Lobster Stew and Homemade (daily) Cornbread.   Every sort of just-caught seafood is delivered twice daily and is broiled to order. Best dessert:  Slow-baked (12 hours) Molasses-rich Indian Pudding with ice cream.  (Hint:  beat the restaurant's ultra-long line by entering as a customer of the Gaslight Pub downstairs.  Otherwise, show up before 11:30am.).   

East Coast Grill -1271 Cambridge St, Cambridge 491-6568 [KKK $$++] – Grilled fresh seafood and meats, plus outrageous Southern Barbeque and incredible sides, make for huge lines and good times at this wildly popular offering from Chef-owner, Chris Schlesinger. This guy is a national expert on grilling AND spicy foods…as anyone who’s been there on their weekly “hotter than hell” night can so attest. Décor is funky country, portions are huge…and if you can still breathe at meal’s end, go for the Key Lime Pie.  

Elephant Walk - 900 Beacon St., Boston 247-1500 [KKK $$+] – Exquisite French-Cambodian cuisine in a charming colonial setting make Elephant Walk one of Boston’s most popular dinners’ out. Try the Poulet Dhomrei (Chicken with basil, bamboo shoots, pineapple and lime leaves,) or the Curry de Crevettes (Shrimp and Vegetable Curry.) Vegetarians can request tofu substituted for meats in most dishes. 

Figs - 67 Main St., Charleston  617/242-2229  [KKK  $$$] – Todd English (creator of the incomparable Olives, ) opened the first Fig’, giving Boston it’s first gourmet pizza parlor. Was it a success? You bet! There are now four Fig’s locations and you STILL have to wait for a table. Shellfish devotees must try the Calm and Oregano combo …it’s to die for! And the Fig and Prosciutto pie is pretty darn good, too. NOTE: Not cheap.  

Ginza - 16 Hudson St., Boston  617/338-2261  [KK  $$] – Currently considered the best Sushi and Maki place in town. Also, serves extremely good tempura.  Attracts a young, hip clientele.  

Grill 23 & Bar - 161 Berkeley St., Boston  617/542-2255  [KKK  $$$] – Still rated Best Steak House in town by Boston Magazine…and by most every Boston native. Lots of wood, glass, marble, and testosterone set the stage for gorgeous cuts of meat, beautifully presented wit h the ultimate steakhouse sides …creamed spinach, roasted Portobellos, and truly divine garlic mashed potatoes. New chef, Jay Murray, even as a few surprises for you…like his Beef and Chorizo Meatloaf topped with roasted red pepper relish. Seriously, for the primo steak dinner in Boston…EAT HERE!  

Hamersley's Bistro - 553 Tremont St., Boston  617/423-2700  [KKKK  $$$] – Fabulos Food! Chef-Owner, Gordon Hamersley (a James Beard Award winner,) does it ALL right…the food, the wine, the service…the works. Start with an appetizer of potato galette, served with smoke salmon, crème fraiche and 3 kinds of caviar…and follow with the signiture Roast Chicken…delectably accompanied by roasted potatoes, onions and whole cloves or roasted garlic, and fragrant with lemon and parsley. (Don’t get me started on the Salmon Au Poivre…)  

The Helm and, 143 First St., Cambridge, 617-492-4646 [KKK+ $$+] – Afgan food is the specialty here, and by all reports, it is a very special indeed. If you’re not familiar with Afgan cooking, picture the best of Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, throw in a little Pakistani…and you can begin to get the picture. Start with wonderful breads for dipping into delectable sauces. Entrees combine succulent meats with wonderful spices, vegetables, and grains. Truly…a meal to remember.

Icarus- 3 Appleton St., Boston  617/426-1790  [KK  $$$] – For some of the finest new American cuisine you’ve ever experienced, in one of the most romantic dining rooms in Boston, head for Icarus. Chef and Co-Owner, Chris Douglas, will tempt you shamelessly with his imaginative fare…like Grilled Shrimp served with Mango and Jalapeno Sorbet, or Porcini-Crusted Halibut with Cabernet Vinegar Sauce. If that doesn’t getcha, I  bet the Chocolate Coconut Cake with Toasted Coconut Ice Cream and Cherry Rum Sauce just might.  

Jae's Cafe & Grill - 520 Columbus Ave., Boston  617/421-9405  [KK  $$] - Reasonably priced and delicious Pan-Asian cuisine featuring wonderful sushi, great noodle dishes, and some imaginative Korean and Thai specialties.  Careful though... some of this stuff is way hot.  Decor is retro-psychedelic and fun.  Reservations are only taken for parties of 6 or more. There are three new locations for Jae’s. 212 Stuart St. 451-7788/ 1281 Cambridge St.,497-8380,/ Atrium Mall, 300 Boylston St. 965-7177.  

Julien - Hotel Meridian, 250 Franklin St., Boston  617/451-1900  [KKKK  $$$$] - Only if you love divine food, stunning surroundings and excessive pampering. The entire wine industry applauds their cellar.  Just go... put on something pretty (but not too tight in the waistband) and go.  Expensive?  Certainment... and oh-so-worth-it.  Dealmakers claim anyone will sign anything after a dinner here.  Reservations a must.  

La Bettola, 480A Columbus Avenue, Boston 236-5252 [ KKK+ $$$$$] 

Lala Rokh, 97 Mt Vernon St., Boston 720-5511 [ KKK $$$+] 

L’Espalier, 30 Gloucester St., Boston 262-3023 [KKKKK $$$$$$] 

La Famiglia Giorgio - 112 Salem St., Boston  617/367-6711  [K  $] - If you get a craving for huge portions of so-so Southern Italian that's really, really cheap, check out this college-kid standby.  La Famiglia Giorgio offers a 5-item hot buffet (from 1-3pm, M-F) that includes lasagna and eggplant all the time plus 3 different dishes daily for $5.50.  Eat in or take-out.  

Legal Sea Foods - Park Plaza Hotel, 35 Columbus Ave., Boston  617/426-4444  [KKK  $$] - So good it should be illegal... this chain of seafooders (which began as a small family fish market) serves only the best and freshest fish and shellfish, and will broil, bake, fry, steam, grill (however you like it) your choice of the day's catch to order.  Legal is a tad quirky... they will serve your food the second it's ready... no waiting till your companion's Baked Stuffed Lobster gets done.  Don't miss the chowder, the Smoked Bluefish Pate or their homemade ice creams.  Note:  Legal has a shop at Logan that will pack goodies for your trip home.  Check with anyone for other locations. 

L’Espalier – 30 Glouster St., Boston 617/262-3023 [KKKK $$$$$++] – Divine! Top-rated by everyone…tied for Number One food rating with Anjourd Hui in 2000 Zagat (where they placed #2 for the most beautiful.) The food is glorious (a melding of French and New England cuisine)…and pampering is non-stop. You can choose a prix fixe, 4-course(at $65.00) or the 7-course menu Degustation (whole tables only,) priced at $82.00. If you’ve been meaning to do something utterly indulgent, this one’s for you.  

Les Zygomates - 129 South Boston St., Boston  617/542-5108  [KK  $$$] - Known for a unique wine bar that offers over 30 choices by the taste, glass or bottle.  The crowd is 'downtown cool' and the food is nicely done Bistro-French.  

Locke-Ober Cafe - 3 Winter Pl., Boston  617/542-1340  [KKK  $$$] - This is for real Boston Brahmin territory... ever since 1880.  (Some regulars still dine here daily, and always at their usual table.  Upstairs it's clubby and less-formal, downstairs is all mahogany paneling, stained glass, crystal chandeliers, mirrors and sterling silver galore.  The most famous dish on the menu (apparently, since the Flood,) is the Lobster Savannah, but also in demand... the filet mignon, the Weiner Schnitzel, and the Steak Tar tare.  The food is excellent and the service is said to be impeccable if not terribly warm.  We're glad to note that women have been welcome here since the 1970s.  Very expensive.  Needless to say... dress up.  

Maison Robert, 45 School St, Boston 227-3370 [KKKK $$$$+]  

Mercury Bar - 116 Boylston St., Boston  617/482-7799  [KK  $$] – Once considered the city’s best Tapas Bar but lately has been surpassed by likes of Dali and Tapeo. Still, affords a hot and tasty bar scene…plus, a dance floor, good Tapas and excellent, huge cocktails.  

Metropolis Café - 584 Tremont St., Boston 247-2931 [KKK $$$+] 

Mistral - 223 Columbus Avenue, Boston 867-9300 [ KKKK $$$$$] – Which is more tantalizing??? The exquisite cuisine of Chef Jamie Mammano…or the great-looking crowd draped over the bar. Another draw…Mistral offers a late nite menu that’s served till midnite. Try the Roast Rack of Colorado Lamb. Be prepared…everything here is quite pricey. But…if you have a few bucks, you’re wearing black, and having a good hair day, definitely check this one out.  

No. 9 Park, 9 Park St., Boston 742-9991 [KKKK $$$$$] – Décor is spare at No. 9, but the food is anything but! Chef Barbara Lynch rules at this stylish bistro near the Statehouse, and local critics adore her adventurous cuisine. Both French and Itlalian themes are evident in a wide-ranging menu. Pheasant served with Chanterelle Flan, Lobster, the Roasted Paella, and the Open-Faced lamb Sandwich. No reservations are taken for parties under six.  

Olives - 10 City Sq., Charlestown  617/242-1999  [KKKK  $$$] - This Mediterranean-New American in Charlestown is such a hit that devotees begin arriving for dinner at 4:45pm in order to avoid the always lengthy waits.  Zagat calls the fare “so creative…it will take your breath away.” Chef/Owner Todd English has been included as one of America’s best New Chefs by Food and Wine Magazine. Signiture dishes include: Piccolo Pumpkin Pillows with Lobster, the Roasted Paella, and the Open-Faced Lamb Sandwich. No reservations are taken for parties under six.  

Parker's Restaurant - 60 School St., Boston  617/227-8600  [KK  $$$] - Another one of those venerable institutions in Boston... (Once host to the likes of Emerson and Longfellow), Parker's offers elegant surroundings and elegant food.  Favorites include the Roasted Veal Tenderloin, Duck Breast with Raspberry Glaze and a superbly done Rack of Lamb.  This is the place that invented the Parker House Roll and, even more important... 130 years ago, Boston Cream Pie. 

Pignoli - 79 Park Sq, Boston 338-7500 [KKKK $$$$+] – A less expensive offering from the creators of Biba. Italian country cooking is the basis of it’s menu, but like Biba, it is stylish, quirky, and sophisticated. A popular pre-theatre spot, with outdoor dining available. Fabulous Risottos!  

Radius - 8 High Street, Boston 426-1234 [KKKK+ $$$$$+] – Former Boston’s Magazine’s Best Chef winner, Micheal Schlow (previously of Café Louis,) recently opened this Financial District Contemporary French entry to raves from critics and foodies alike. Be seated in the big dining room, or choose a table in the action-packed bar. The potent aromas of fabulous food and big time bucks combine in a tantalizing fashion. Especially good: Torchon of New York State Foie Gras, the Maine Lobster, and the Roasted loin of Veal. PS: Schlow was just nominated for a James Beard Award, Best Chef in Northeast prize.  

Redbones - 55 Chester St., Somerville  617/628-2200  [KK  $$] - Great Buffalo Shrimp (messy, greasy, and one is never enough), icy micro-brews(24 on tap) and the most succulent, meat-fallin'-off-the-bone ribs in town.  A sensationally noisy and sloppy good time.  

Rialto - One Bennett St , Cambridge617- 661-5050 [KKKK $$$$$+] – Fancy fare lovingly created by noted chef, Jody Adams, in the swanky dining room of Cambridge’s Charles Hotel. Cuisine is Mediterranean with the accent seafood. Bon Appetit calls the food terrific, and especially loves the Lobster Ravioli with Citrus Cream and Red Pepper Coulis. 

Ritz-Carlton Dining Room - Ritz-Carlton, 15 Arlington St., Boston  617/536-5700  [KKKK  $$$$] - Wonderful old-world elegance... just as you'd expect from the Ritz.  The service is perfection, of course.  Second-floor windows overlook the Boston Public Gardens and piano music is played softly while you dine.  Serving mostly classics like Rack of Lamb with Thyme and Maine Lobster Au Whiskey, but has recently introduced some lighter items as well.  A heavenly choice of appetizers (over 30) and simply exquisite desserts.  If you arrive in town over the weekend, indulge in the truly lush Ritz Sunday Brunch... we're talking:  caviar and blinis, oysters on the 1/2 shell, gravlax, seafood mousse, pates, soup, roast beef, lamb, crepes, omelettes, quiche, lots more, and then there's dessert!  Reservations a must.  

Rooftop Pool at the Colonnade Hotel - 120 Huntington Ave., Boston  617/424-7000  [K  $$] - If a light lunch (a salad or sandwich), a tan and a swim at noon appeals, try the Colonnade's rooftop package. Lunch, towels, a changing room and fellow sun worshippers all for $10 for a ½ day, $20 for a full day.  

Sage- 69 Prince St., Boston 248-8814 [KKK $$$] – Tiny (8 tables) North End eatery with a mini-cult following. Specialists are Contemporary California-Italian items, cooked to order, featuring home-made pastas and the freshest of herbs. What’s more, Sage is that sort of congenial, happy kind of place that makes wonderful food taste even better. Reservations a must.  

Sakurabana- 57 Broad St., Boston 542-4311 [KKK $$+] – Vies with Ginza for best sushi and maki in town. Authentic. Consistently execellent.  

Salamander - One Athenaeum St., Cambridge 225-2121 [KKK+ $$$$+] – Offers an Asian-Ecelectic Fusion menu that is complex and addictive. Theatrical presentations and superb service are a given here. Not for everyone but if you enjoy a culinary challenge, this place is for you. Try the Deep-Fried Lobster in Thai Curry Sauce.  

Seasons - Bostonian Hotel, 9 Blackstone St. N., Boston  617/523-3600  [KKKK  $$$] - Once a posh private lunching club, now this lovely, glass-enclosed dining room on the 4th floor of the Bostonian is open to one and all.  A favorite with local politicians (City Hall is right down the street) and business heavy-hitters, Season's is the ultimate American Restaurant.  Even the fabulous wine selection is 100% US vintage... with 50 different Chardonnays & 65 Cabernet Sauvignons.  Chef Brian Houlihan has the local food critics enthralled with goodies like the Layered Potato and Smoked Salmon Croquette with Caviar-Cream appetizer, a salad of Arugula, Plum and Feta Cheese on a Slice of Tomato Pizza; the steamed Halibut with Oriental Spices and Apple cooked in Paper; and Macadamia Nut and Coconut Flan with Mango sorbet for dessert.  This one is just excellent all around... style, service, decor, everything!  

Sonsie - 327 Newbury St., Boston  617/351-2500  [KKK  $$] - Still one of the hottest hangouts, Sonsie offers eclectic French-Asian cuisine.  The fare is unusual, reasonably priced and quite good. The crowd runs the gamut from Glam-Grunge to Euro-Chic.  Drop by for a meal, a soup, a salad, or just a drink and a look-see & be seen.  

Stephanie's on Newbury  - 190 Newbury St., Boston  617/236-0990  [KK  $$] - Another chic stop on Newbury Street...  but some find it a tad snooty.  You can solve that problem by ordering your gourmet treats to go.  With their wide variety of scrumptious entrees, salads and desserts, Stephanie's is considered the best high-end take-out in town and is a fond habit with many neighborhood 9 to 5'ers.  

29 Newbury Street - 29 Newbury St., Boston  617/536-0290  [KK  $$] - The forever trendy one on Newberry St. The cuisine is pretty good New American (except for the desserts which are great) and the crowd is Euro, well groomed and stylish.  Intimate booth seating inside, sidewalk cafe seating in season.  For best service, wear a lot of black and speak with an accent.

Tapeo- 266 Newbury St., Boston 617/267-4799 [KK $$$] – Along with sister-operation Dali, hands-on winner of Best Tapas in Town honors. A hugely fun scene on Newbury Street., offering truly delectable morsels, terrific Sangria, a cooler than cool bar scene, and even patio dining. Currently, the best ‘good time’ on New bury. Can get expensive.  

Truc- 560 Tremont St., Boston 617/388-8070 [KKK $$$$+] – French food so yummy that Chef Amanda Lydon has been selected by Food & Wine Magazine as one of the country’s Top 10 Best New Chefs of 2000. Check out the back room greenhouse and if the scrumptious pork rillettes served with mustard pot and cornichons are on the menu, go for it.  

29 Newbury- 29 Newbury St., Boston 617/536-0290 [KK $$] – The forever trendy one on New berry St…The cuisine is pretty good New American (except for desserts which are great) and the crowd is Euro, well-groomed and stylish. Intimate booth seating inside, sidewalk café seating in season. For best service, wear a lot of black and speak with an accent.  

Union Oyster House - 41 Union St., Boston  617/227-2750  [KKK  $$] - Another Boston classic... since 1826.  Try the Oyster House Sampler in the Raw Bar (one dozen each of oysters, clams and scampi).  And don't miss the ultimate Oyster Stew, made with the freshest, sweet milk and country butter.  For the best of everything, have the Shore Dinner... you'll get chowder, steamers, broiled lobster, salad, corn and dessert.  And speaking of dessert, don't miss this one... traditional Boston Gingerbread with freshly whipped cream.  

Upstairs at the Pudding - 10 Holyoke St., Cambridge  617/864-1933  [KKK  $$$] - Some say perfect, others say pretentious, but few can debate the popularity of this lovely gourmet Italian-Continental with its own roof garden atop Harvard's Hasty Pudding Club.  Known for food that's gorgeously presented and imaginatively prepared, some favorite offerings include:  Grilled Duck Breast with Blood Oranges and Black Pepper Polenta; Grilled, Marinated Vermont Quail and Flatbread, glazed with a wild mushroom Port; Pan-Steamed Black Sea Bass with Cob-Smoked Bacon, Red Onion and Citrus, served with Fiddlehead Ferns and boiled Creamer Potatoes.  Super-special desserts, too... like Lemon Buttermilk Budino with Raspberry sauce and candied Pistachios.  

The North End - Boston's North End is a long-time haven for those who love authentic Italian cuisine.  Since we want the CKP Boston Guide to fit in your pocket, we're opting to simply list some of our favorite restaurants and cafes in the neighborhood.   While it's always a good idea to call for reservations, depending on the night and the time, in many cases you can just show up and find a table.  Check with your concierge or the restaurant itself.   Take a stroll down bustling Hanover Street, find your spot, eat, walk some more, stop for a cannoli and a cappuccino, and then stop in somewhere else for a liqueur and a decaf.  So go, and as they say in the North End, "Mangia!"

 

North End Restaurants

Mamma Maria, 3 North Square, 617/523-0077

Dolce Vita, 237 Hanover St., 617/720-0422

Daily Catch, 523 Hanover St., 617/ 523-8567

Il Panino, 11 Parmenter St.,  617/720-1336

Pomodoro, 319 Hanover St., 617/367-4348

LoConte's, 114 Salem St., 617/720-3550  

Davide, 326 Commercial St., 617/ 227-5745

Al Dente, 109 Salem St., 617/523-0990

 

North End Cafes & Patisseries

Bova's Bakery, 134 Salem St., 617/523-5601

Cafe Graffitti, 307 Hanover St., 617/367-3016

Cafe Vittoria, 296 Hanover St., 617 227-7606