Best of Boston

2004 Best Al Fresco Restaurant, Affordable

Garden of Eden

Few summertime pleasures are greeted as enthusiastically in this town as the chance to dine outdoors. But even considering the growing abundance of patio cafés, Garden of Eden stands out for its exceptional basic ingredients: fresh and creative dishes, an unpretentious staff, and umbrellas to provide some shade. The menu includes light, refreshing dishes like crusty, overstuffed sandwiches named for nearby streets, savory baked goods, homemade hummus, inventive salads, and daily cheese plates. Plus, the steady stream of passing pedestrian and dog traffic makes for endless tableside entertainment.

571 Tremont St., Boston, 617-247-8377,