Why do we love this place? Well, there’s the exquisitely complex cocktails, the inventive late-night fare (rock shrimp beignets, anyone?), and a stunning grilled cheese sandwich. That it’s all executed with hotel-dining-room efficiency in an opulent French bistro setting makes it a destination for food aficionados, upscale Sox fans, and visiting parents of BU coeds.

Eastern Standard | 528 Commonwealth Ave. | http://www.easternstandardboston.com/