| Dining Overview | Top  |
Seafood reigns supreme in Boston (you
must try the New England clam "chow-dah"). Generally, we recommend eating any seafood that's presented to you, but go out of your way to find fresh lobster or steamed clams.
That said, the impact of multiculturalism on local cuisine can't be overstated. Thai, Vietnamese, Middle Eastern, Indian, Caribbean and Cajun restaurants have established themselves in a town with a reputation for provincialism. Current dining trends run to exquisitely prepared and presented contemporary French cuisine, Mediterranean-inspired bistros and Asian fusion restaurants.
This city has long had one of the largest and most enduring Italian-American communities in the U.S., so you'll find a daunting array of great, atmospheric ristorantes from which to choose. For authentic Italian cuisine with Financial District skyscrapers as backdrop, head to the North End. Part of the fun of delving into this neighborhood is strolling up and down the streets comparing menus and prices. Leave room for espresso and sweets (cannoli is wonderful) at one of the neighborhood's pastry shops or cafes on Hanover Street, with more on parallel Salem Street.
Having such a wealth of choices does not come cheap, however; Boston can be a very expensive city in which to dine. For a less costly option, consider taking your main meal at lunch, especially at the Barking Crab or the ever-touristy, ever-reliable Durgin Park.
Dining times are generally 6-10 am for breakfast, 11 am-2 pm for lunch, 5-10 pm for dinner.
Expect to pay within these general guidelines for a single dinner without tax, tip or drinks: $ = less than US$15; $$ = US$15-$30; $$$ = US$31-$50; $$$$ = more than US$50.
| Local & Regional | Top |
A "clam shack" in the city. Go for the lobster and fried clams, not crab. It's a great place for a late lunch on a sunny afternoon, sitting on the deck with food and a local microbrew and watching the boats go by. Occasional live music performances (call for details). Daily for lunch and dinner. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 88 Sleeper St. (near Northern Avenue and Fort Point Channel, Courthouse T station on the Silver Line), Boston. Phone 617-426-2722. http://www.barkingcrab.com.
An absolute must for travelers in search of local flavors. Crowded and noisy, with a waitstaff that's frequently haughty, but the meals are pure New England (seafood, huge cuts of prime rib, baked beans and Indian pudding). Don't miss the chowder. Daily for lunch and dinner. No reservations. $-$$$. Most major credit cards. 340 Faneuil Hall (State T stop on the Orange and Blue lines or Government Center T stop on the Green Line), downtown, Boston. Phone 617-227-2038. http://www.durgin-park.com.
Combines grilled specialties with fiery spices and fruit salsas from around the world. Emphasis is on grilled fish. The Sunday brunch features Latin-style dishes and a very popular Bloody Mary bar. Monday-Saturday for dinner, Sunday for brunch and dinner. Reservations accepted Sunday-Thursday only for parties of five or more. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 1271 Cambridge St. (near Inman Square), Cambridge. Phone 617-491-6568. http://www.eastcoastgrill.net.
Acclaimed local restaurateur Todd English's entry into the world of seafood, with shrimp frittata being a favorite. The splashy decor (by architect David Rockwell) gets as many raves as the food. Daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted for groups of six or more. $$$. Most major credit cards. 188 South Market Building (in Faneuil Hall Marketplace; State T stop on the Orange and Blue lines, or Government Center on the G, Boston. Phone 617-523-8862. http://www.toddenglish.com.
Celebrity chef Lydia Shire serves up creative versions of traditional New England specialties, such as rum- and tobacco-smoked salmon, classic Boston scrod and shellfish from the restored oyster bar, but a bit of international influence can be found in more adventurous dishes—Thai shrimp cakes with tamarind sauce, for instance. But most diners really go to Locke's to soak up the atmosphere of this old-money Boston enclave, in business since 1875. Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday for dinner only. Reservations recommended. Jackets required for men. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 3 Winterplace (Downtown Crossing T stop on the Orange and Red lines or Park Street T stop on the Green and Red lines), downtown, Boston. Phone 617-542-1340. http://www.locke-ober.com.
Soul food and Boston isn't a connection most people make, but they might after a visit to Bob's. This lively spot is a hit, with authentic southern classics such as black-eyed peas and collard greens as well as the New Orleans-tinged crab cakes and jambalaya. The Sunday jazz brunch (10 am-2:30 pm) brings together a fun and diverse local crowd. Jazz also is presented Thursday-Saturday evenings and some Wednesday nights. The restaurant is popular and safe, but be cautious in the surrounding neighborhood at night. Monday-Thursday for dinner only, Friday and Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday for brunch and dinner. Reservations accepted for parties of four or more. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 604 Columbus Ave. (Massachusetts Avenue T stop on the Orange Line), South End, Boston. Phone 617-536-6204. http://www.bobthechefs.com.
Have a beer and a burger where Norm used to sit (well, not really, since the sitcom was filmed in Hollywood). If you do eat there, though, you may see Norm or other members of the
Cheers cast at the bar—they often stop by the restaurant when they are in town. A big menu with typical sandwiches and pub fare. Daily 11 am-2 am. $. Most major credit cards. 84 Beacon St., Boston. Phone 617-227-9605. http://www.cheersboston.com.
Sample the restaurant's seasonal cuisine, on large or small plates, matched to select wines. Chef Daniel Bruce, longtime chef for the Boston Wine Festival, uses fresh local ingredients in imaginative ways: Maine lobster steamed in white wine with bok choy and ginger essence, or baby lamb chops with mint and a parsnip-rhubarb tower. All seating is arranged to maximize the expansive views of Boston Harbor. Tuesday-Saturday for dinner, Sunday for brunch. Reservations recommended. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 70 Rowes Wharf (in the Boston Harbor Hotel), Boston. Phone 617-439-3995. http://www.meritagetherestaurant.com.
A staple in Harvard Square since 1961. A lot of Harvard students have come and gone, but these burgers remain the best—juicy and cooked precisely to order with freshly ground beef. The many topping combinations are named for politicos and celebrities of academia, stage and screen. Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner. $. No credit cards. 1246 Massachusetts Ave. (Harvard T stop on the Red Line), Cambridge. Phone 617-354-6559. http://bartleysburgers.com.
Originally a small, 11-seat counter and kitchen that served whomever came in off of the boats docking on Boston's fish pier, the No-Name is now a Boston tradition. It now offers two floors of seating, but you still might have a wait on a Friday or Saturday night. In addition to fish chowder so thick you can stand your spoon up in it, try "iced da' blue," a slice of homemade blueberry pie with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Monday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm, Sunday 11 am-9 pm. $-$$. No credit cards. 15 Fish Pier St. W., Boston. Phone 617-423-2705.
Imagine your favorite diner with an upscale, art-deco twist. Its brunch menu is sectioned into sweet and savory flavors. For dinner, it's comfort food at its finest. Chef and owner Felino Samson named his restaurant after the sound of uncorking a champagne bottle—we'll raise a glass to that. Open Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday and Sunday for brunch and dinner. $$-$$$. 560 Tremont St. (Back Bay), Boston. Phone 617-695-1250. http://www.popsrestaurant.net.
Taking the "Iron Chef" concept to a whole new level, chefs Bob and David Kinkead are brothers who get along just fine outside of the kitchen but use a dual-menu format to compete against each other with their own inspired creations. On Monday night, you're the judge—via a US$35 prix-fixe menu. Regardless of who wins, your meal will be crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Daily for dinner, Saturday and Sunday for lunch. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 525 Tremont St., South End, Boston. Phone 617-338-5338. http://www.siblingrivalryboston.com.
Newbury Street chic—this is the place to see and be seen. Gorgeous wooden decor, huge French windows that open onto the bustle of Newbury Street, and reasonably priced gourmet eats. Try one of the Italian- or Asian-inspired pastas or splurge on the steak au poivre. Also serves a killer brunch on the weekend. Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday and Sunday for brunch and dinner, late-night menu served nightly till 12:30 am. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 327 Newbury St. (Hynes/ICA T stop on the Green Line), Boston. Phone 617-351-2500. http://www.sonsieboston.com.
Eye-catching decor and a blend of traditional and contemporary Indian cuisine have attracted attention to this popular spot in Somerville's Davis Square. The tandoori chicken is especially popular—wash it down with a fresh mango
lassi. Daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted. $$. Most major credit cards. 246 Elm St. (Davis Square T stop on the Red Line), Somerville. Phone 617-629-4963. http://www.divabistro.com.
Sushi fans adore this restaurant west of downtown in Brookline. There's usually a wait on weekend nights, and the service can be a bit slow, but the food is worth it. Try the caterpillar
maki (actually made of eel, but it resembles a caterpillar) or the spicy tuna. Daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted. $$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 1280 Beacon St. (Coolidge Corner T stop on the Green Line C train), Brookline. Phone 617-738-1268. http://www.fugakyu.net.
Top-notch Japanese in Chinatown. Fresh sushi,
maki and other entrees. Try the "spider," a deep-fried crab rolled in dry seaweed with avocado, rice and spicy mayonnaise. Daily for lunch and dinner until 11 pm, Friday and Saturday until 3:30 am. Reservations available for parties of six or more. $$$. Most major credit cards. 16 Hudson St., Boston. Phone 617-338-2261. http://www.bostonginza.com.
Some of the best Indian food in the 617 area code, well worth the T ride from downtown Boston. In this tiny place, the dishes are spicy and full of flavor, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations accepted. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 1900 Massachusetts Ave. (Porter Square T stop on the Red Line), Cambridge. Phone 617-497-6113. http://www.passageindia.com.
More a hip fusion eatery than a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, this popular spot is known for its excellent martinis and very tasty cuisine. Try the tuna spring roll appetizer and the peanut
chow foon (noodle dish with curried chicken, beef or tofu). Daily for dinner, until 1 am. $-$$. 1415 Washington St. (Back Bay T Stop on the Orange Line), Boston. Phone 617-262-0005. http://www.phorepublique.net.
Chef William Kovel applies French culinary techniques in an elegant dining room overlooking the Public Garden—the perfect place for a celebration. In addition to perusing the standard a la carte menu, consider the tasting menus (multicourse dinners of seasonal specialties at a fixed price). Tasty vegetarian options and "alternative cuisine" are also available. Bubbly Fridays, when you can sample a selection of sparkling wines, are a special treat. Daily for dinner, weekends for brunch also. Reservations recommended. Jackets preferred for men. $$$$. Most major credit cards. In the Four Seasons Hotel, 200 Boylston St. (Arlington T stop on the Green Line), Back Bay, Boston. Phone 617-338-4400. http://www.fourseasons.com/boston/dining.
One of Cambridge's most romantic restaurants, its decor is sometimes described as "sexy," although "cozy-yet-elegant" might be a better description. The menu is a refreshing mix of Cuban and French influences catering to a range of appetites and budgets (a la carte, three-course prix-fixe and a bar menu). Try the bar menu's Cuban pressed-pork sandwich for a special treat. Daily for dinner. Reservations accepted for groups of six or more. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 1 Shepard St. (Harvard or Porter Square T stops on the Red Line), Cambridge. Phone 617-354-8980. http://www.chezhenri.com.
Exquisite, seasonal menus prepared in a country French-American style. An open kitchen, homey decor and no dress code. Try the house specialty: roast chicken with garlic, lemon and parsley. Patio seating, weather permitting. No smoking. Daily for dinner, Sunday for brunch also. Reservations recommended; walk-ins welcome on weeknights. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 553 Tremont St., South End, Boston. Phone 617-423-2700. http://www.hamersleysbistro.com.
A luxurious Back Bay town-house setting for contemporary French dining boasts the 2007 James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast, Frank McClelland. Select the three-course prix-fixe meal or a multicourse tasting menu (including selections that showcase vegetarian dishes and caviar). Excellent wine pairings. Monday-Saturday for dinner. Reservations required. Jackets recommended for men. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 30 Gloucester St. (Hynes/ICA T stop on the Green Line), Boston. Phone 617-262-3023. http://www.lespalier.com.
This wine bar and bistro serves French-influenced specialties such as lobster bisque and roasted venison with sauce
poivrade and braised greens. Parisian-type zinc-topped bar. Jazz entertainment nightly Tuesday-Saturday. Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday for dinner only. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 129 South St. (South Station T stop on the Red Line), Boston. Phone 617-542-5108. http://www.winebar.com.
Mistral is both a trendy bar and an elegant bistro, known as a gathering place for beautiful people and well-to-do hipsters. Dazzling grill menu, gourmet thin-crust pizzas and sublime French cuisine. Try the Dover sole meuniere with spinach, lemon and capers. Valet parking. Daily for dinner, with a limited late-night menu Thursday-Saturday 11-11:30 pm. Reservations recommended. Elegant dress, but not jackets, required. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 223 Columbus Ave. (Back Bay T stop on the Orange Line), Back Bay, Boston. Phone 617-867-9300. http://www.mistralbistro.com.
Dramatic and elegant, this is the place to observe the power brokers of the Financial District. Fabulous flavors and presentation in a contemporary French-American style. Try the seared Maine scallops with wild mushrooms and truffled cauliflower puree, but leave room for one of the scrumptious desserts. Great service. Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday for dinner serving until 11 pm. Reservations recommended. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 8 High St., downtown (South Station T stop on the Red Line), Boston. Phone 617-426-1234. http://www.radiusrestaurant.com.
This entrant to Hanover Street scores high marks for innovative and subtle approaches to such staples as calamari and sea bass. Daily for dinner, and late-night wood-oven pizza Tuesday-Saturday 11 pm-2 am. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 241 Hanover St. (Haymarket T stop on the Orange and Green lines), Boston. Phone 617-248-6800. http://www.bricco.com.
A good choice for after-dinner espresso and cannoli (many North End restaurants do not serve dessert). Finish the evening with one of many grappa varieties or a
digestivo. Daily 8 am-1 am. $. No credit cards. 296 Hanover St. (Haymarket T stop on the Orange and Green lines), Boston. Phone 617-227-7606. http://www.vittoriacaffe.com.
Northern and southern styles of Italian cooking are served in this popular little place in the North End. The daily specials are posted on two blackboards—you can select a specific entree or put together your own combo of pasta, sauce and seafood. The casual ambience is augmented by exposed brick walls and pressed-tin ceilings. Daily for dinner. Reservations not accepted. $$. No credit cards. 355 Hanover St. (Haymarket T stop on the Orange and Green lines), Boston. Phone 617-523-9026.
Romantic atmosphere and classic Italian dining. Pricier than many North End venues, but the surroundings are more upscale as well. Many tables have a nice view of the city skyline. Try one of the chef's specials, such as the slow-roasted osso bucco. Daily for dinner. Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 3 North Square (Haymarket T stop on the Orange and Green lines), Boston. Phone 617-523-0077. http://www.mammamaria.com.
A Boston institution, this bakery-cum-coffee-shop (on the same block as Caffe Vittoria) is always packed with North End diners seeking cannoli,
boconnotto (Italian cream puffs covered in chocolate) and other decadent homemade treats. Monday-Thursday 8 am-9 pm, Friday 8 am-10:30 pm, Saturday 8 am-11 pm, Sunday 8 am-11 pm. $. 300 Hanover St. (Haymarket T stop on the Green and Orange lines), Boston. Phone 617-742-3050. http://www.mikespastry.com.
Neptune Oyster is an Italian restaurant at its contemporary, seductive finest. The raw bar is worth the trip alone. Open daily for lunch and dinner. $$$. Most major credit cards. 63 Salem St. (Haymarket T stop on the Green and Orange Lines), Boston. Phone 617-742-3474. http://www.neptuneoyster.com.
Great food, reasonably priced. Straightforward southern Italian red sauce served by a very accommodating staff. Known for beef tripe in tomato gravy. Another favorite is polenta cheesecake. Daily for lunch and dinner. $$. Reservations accepted for groups of six or more and for smaller parties on weekdays year-round and on Saturday in winter. Most major credit cards. 263 Hanover St. (Haymarket T stop on the Green and Orange lines), Boston. Phone 617-523-3888. http://www.piccolaveneziaboston.com.
This popular restaurant has expanded into malls across Massachusetts and Rhode Island, but the original location is still the best. Reservations are not accepted, so be prepared to wait (it's worth it). Open daily for lunch, dinner and late night. 11 1/2 Thatcher St. (Haymarket T), Boston. Phone 617-227-0765. http://www.polcaris.com/pizzeriaregina.htm.
This romantic North End restaurant serves classic Italian cuisine paired with an excellent wine list. Monday-Friday 4-11 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11 am-11 pm. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 379 Hanover St. (Haymarket T stop on the Green or Orange lines), Boston. Phone 617-523-8481. http://www.stregaristorante.com.
Hands-down, the best Mexican food in Boston. A tiny cantina is located near Fenway Park, and it's not uncommon to see the line stretch out the door. The burritos are divine and the rice is perfect. Try the
caramelos—the "spicy sauce" will clear out your sinuses. We couldn't believe the restaurant doesn't charge more. $. Most major credit cards. 92 Peterborough St. (The Fenway), Boston. Phone 617-262-9090. http://www.elpelon.com/new.
| Middle Eastern | Top  |
Let the seductive marriage of meat, fruit, vegetables and spices that are Persian cuisine transport you to another time and place. Don't be intimidated by the menu choices: The waitstaff are expert and gracious guides. Monday-Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturday and Sunday for dinner only. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 97 Mount Vernon St. (Charles/MGH stop on the Red Line or Arlington stop on the Green Line), Boston. Phone 617-720-5511. http://www.lalarokh.com.
| Breakfast & Brunch | Top |
In Harvard Square's elegant Charles Hotel, this early-meal favorite offers a breezy "country kitchen" feeling with abundant portions and brunch favorites such as quiches, meats, pastas and pies. Daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner; brunch is served Saturday and Sunday. Reservations recommended for brunch. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 1 Bennett St. (Harvard T stop on the Red Line), Cambridge. Phone 617-661-5005. http://www.henriettastable.com.
A pleasant Harvard Square eatery with outdoor tables facing an ivy-covered garden. Everything on the menu is made in the kitchen. We loved the Green Eggs and Ham, served on a hot-from-the-oven biscuit. Monday-Friday 8 am-8 pm, Saturday 8 am-5 pm, Sunday 8 am-3 pm. 56 Brattle St. (Harvard Square stop on the Red Line), Cambridge. Phone 617-876-8766.
| Cafes & Tearooms | Top |
Watch the soccer game with the locals—they'll probably shout at the TV in Italian. The cafe serves gelato, pastries and coffee. There's also a restaurant. Strike up a conversation with the cafe's friendly staff—if you're good, they'll give you samples. Open daily until 10 pm. $. 255 Hanover St. (Haymarket), Boston. Phone 617-742-1768. http://www.caffeparadiso.com.
Delicious breads, desserts, pizza and sandwiches can be found there. The Beacon Hill location was so successful, a second location opened up to serve the Back Bay. Monday-Friday 8 am-9:30 pm, Saturday 9 am-9:30 pm, Sunday 9 am-9 pm. 144 Charles St., Boston. Phone 617-227-4340. http://www.panificioboston.com.
A favorite with students and twentysomethings, this bohemian coffee shop has plush comfy chairs and serves the best sandwiches in Back Bay. Try the California wrap with dill havarti cheese, avocado, veggies and cucumber dill dressing. Daily for lunch, dinner and late-night snacks (Monday-Thursday and Sunday closes at midnight, Friday and Saturday at 2 am during summer). $. No credit cards. 407 Newbury St. (Hynes/ICA T stop on the Green Line), Boston. Phone 617-536-8437.
As the whimsical name implies, this hip and funky Cambridge restaurant is just plain fun. The menu offers tapas-style appetizers (they're a bit bigger than traditional tapas portions) featuring flavors from Italy, China, France and even Ireland. Try the grilled trout with charred lemon slices or the porcini and Portobello mushroom risotto. Tasty, reasonably priced food and a decent wine list, too. Monday-Saturday for dinner. $$. Most major credit cards. 795 Main St. (Central Square T stop on the Red Line), Cambridge. Phone 617-864-2929. http://www.cuchicuchi.cc.
Chef and owner Barbara Lynch uses French and Italian cuisines as the backbone of her menu in an upscale Beacon Hill dining room. A favorite spot for state legislators. Potato-wrapped ravioli and Lynch's crispy duck top the list of favorites. Monday-Saturday for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 9 Park St. (Park Street Station T stop on Green and Red lines), Boston. Phone 617-742-9991. http://www.no9park.com.
The Mediterranean-inspired menu has such gems as basil and walnut tabouleh and grilled skirt steak with green beans, tomato and yogurt. It has received several accolades since it opened in 2001, including the James Beard Foundation's nomination for "Best Chef in the Northeast" in 2004 and 2005. Its patio is lively in the summer. Daily for dinner. Reservations strongly recommended. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 134 Hampshire St. (Central Square T stop on the Red Line), Cambridge. Phone 617-661-0505. http://www.oleanarestaurant.com.
This popular late-night diner has retro decor (it's 85 years old, after all) and retro soda-fountain drinks as well—try a root-beer float, frappe or raspberry-lime rickey. Serves burgers, club sandwiches and other traditional diner grub. Monday-Thursday 5 pm-5 am, Friday-Sunday open 24 hours. $-$$. American Express only. 178 Kneeland St. (South Station), Boston. Phone 617-350-0028. http://www.southstreetdiner.com.
| Steak Houses | Top |
The popular steak house on Boylston Street has a lively bar that caters to a thirtysomething crowd. Excellent steaks and atmosphere. Beer and wine are available, but most patrons are seen with trendy cosmopolitans in hand. Daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended. $$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 793 Boylston St. (Copley Square T stop on the Green Line), Boston. Phone 617-536-6300. http://www.abeandlouies.com.
Had enough seafood or Asian-Mediterranean fusion cuisine? This upscale steak house may be the antidote. Although it is part of a fairly large chain, the restaurant prides itself on excellent service as well as top-notch steaks. Sip your Scotch and enjoy an impeccably grilled steak (seafood is also offered) with a salad and potato. Daily for dinner. Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 359 Newbury St., Boston. Phone 617-262-8900. http://www.thecapitalgrille.com.
Recognized nationally for its dry-aged beef, innovative seafood offerings and attentive service, in impeccably elegant surroundings. Nightly for dinner. Reservations recommended. $$$-$$$$. Most major credit cards. 161 Berkeley St., Back Bay, Boston. Phone 617-542-2255. http://www.grill23.com.
The most luxurious steak house in town, in the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel. The food, from Chateaubriand to veal chops to seafood, is superb. The Oak Bar next door has an excellent raw bar. Daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Reservations recommended. $$$$. Most major credit cards. 138 St. James Ave., Boston. Phone 617-267-5300. http://theoakroom.com.
| Other Options | Top |
The perfect end to a night on the town. Known as a desserterie, this Theater District cafe specializes in desserts accompanied by a variety of ports, champagnes, wines and cordials. You can also order lunch or appetizer-style dishes in the evening that are just large enough to leave room for dessert. There are also locations in Harvard Square and Brookline. Monday-Thursday 11:30 am-11:30 pm, Friday 11:30 am-midnight, Saturday 5 pm-midnight. $-$$. Most major credit cards. 1 Columbus Ave. (Arlington Street T stop on the Green Line), Boston. Phone 617-423-3184. http://www.finaledesserts.com.
A carnivore's paradise, this bistro serves small plates of homemade sausages, duck breast salad and marinated olives, all paired with fine wines. The Kobe steak salad is to die for. A full-time butcher ensures all meat is Grade A. We especially liked the decor: black chalkboards with handwritten notes ran the length of one wall, harkening back to a bygone era. Daily for lunch and dinner. $$-$$$. Most major credit cards. 552 Tremont St. (Back Bay stop on the Orange Line), Boston. Phone 617-423-4800. http://www.no9park.com.