Ashmont Grill

While every place on this page gets kudos for channeling neighborhood vibe, credit veteran chef Chris Douglass with being nervy enough to actually create one. Opened in 2005 in less-than-humming Peabody Square, his approachably stylish bistro now draws foodies from near and far with superbly executed, kindly priced ($20, tops) comfort food. And with the recent success of his pasta-centric Tavolo right down the block, Douglass seems primed for a hat trick. RUNNER-UP: 224 Boston Street