Dorfman Jewelers
If you know what you want— an eternity band with sapphires, say, or an exquisite set of braided guards to bookend your anniversary ring— come to the masters, in this intimate, opulent, vaultlike boutique. But first you must be worthy of the stones: Barbara will size you up. 24 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
City Sports
With so many locations to choose from, City Sports is the best stop for service and selection— sporting equipment from rollerblades to swim goggles as well as end-of-season sales worth waiting for. Check local newspapers for daily coupons. Guaranteed to unleash your inner jock. All locations, .
Cambridge Auto Parts
Have you ever broken your parking light while trying to squeeze into that enviable spot on Newbury Street? For less than half of what you'd pay at most dealerships, these guys will provide (or order) most any spare part. 290 River St., Cambridge, MA .
Harnett's Homeopathy & Body Care Store
There is no product too esoteric for this homeopath's heaven: essence of sage, soap salad-bar, pump-your-own-shampoos, natural health remedies, vitamins, New Age magazines, and for those who prefer to get their vitamins in the most natural way—a juice bar. 47 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA .
Doug Eng
When he's not helping locals perfect serves, slices, and backhands, Doug Eng is coaching the Tufts men's tennis team, writing for tennis publications, and traveling the training and speaking circuit. Chances are he schooled the pros from your country club, too. The Tennis Academy At Harvard, 65 N. Harvard St., Boston, MA 2163, thetennisacademy.com.
Salon Marc Harris
Have a spare $125 and need a new do? Marc Harris's adroitly angled razor cuts are the sharpest in town. An updated, more sophisticated look—one that actually accentuates your face's particular shap—is always money well spent. 30 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, salonmarcharris.com.
K-9 Corner
Is your dog more accustomed to play dates than crates? Then this is the overnight care for him, with three yards for larger dogs, and three areas indoors for smaller pooches and puppies. Boarding is $25 per night, day care is $20. Call well in advance of holidays and school vacations, which book up fast. 204 Bridge St., Weymouth, MA .
Vox Populi
In this den of preppy testosterone, the open floor plan encourages circulating (the better to scope prospects), the pop soundtrack doesn't drown out conversation (the better to initiate small talk), and the martini menu is 20 varieties long (the better to loosen your inhibitions). 755 Boylston St., Boston, MA 2116, voxboston.com.
Foundation Lounge
We've never understood the phrase "so hip it hurts." A bikini wax—now that hurts. But a night spent amid lacquered wood and PYTs, drinking mango martinis while dipping into small plates of Japanese zensai and nodding along to high-rent house DJs? There's nothing painful about that. 499 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 2215, .
Wonder Bar
Who needs comfort food when you have comfort drink? Lurking beneath the floorboards of the stiff-backed, black-attired glam scene at the Wonder Bar is a comfortable lounge downstairs. It has enveloping booths and sofas and a TV playing sports du jour. The jazz wafts down from upstairs; the pretense, fortunately, does not. 186 Harvard Ave., Allston, MA .
Tie: Bim Skala Bim and The Allstonians
Two acts ostensibly playing the same style, but each with a unique sound. The former's catchier doubletimes tunes rocket you from your seat; the latters more sluggish, sparse style digs a deep groove. Plus, you have to love the 'Stonians endearing tribal loyalty: "Living in Allston is the final word!"
Galley Beach
For the ultimate drink with a view, head to this chichi waterfront lounge, plant your feet firmly in the sand, and try a Moscow Mule or a North Shore (made with local 888 cranberry vodka). Sip and repeat until the sun sets, then retire to the dining room for lobster tail and a veal chop, prepared by the new executive chef, Neil Ferguson. 54 Jefferson Ave., Nantucket, MA galleybeach.net.
Natale's
Natale's is the place to go for high-end men's clothing south of the city. Everything in the store is tailor-made with only the finest wools and fabrics; staffers pride themselves on their ability to help you create a custom wardrobe designed precisely for your needs; and a lifetime of alterations is guaranteed. 171 Washington St., Norwell, MA natalesclothing.com.
Straight Wharf
A gorgeous waterfront location, impeccable service, creative New England fare from chef Gabriel Frasca—Straight Wharf has it all. Particularly notable are the signature clam bake—buttery lobster and chorizo over sweet corn and clams—and the flaky, baked-to-order strawberry galette with house-made buttermilk ice cream. 6 Harbor Square, Nantucket, MA 2554, straightwharfrestaurant.com.
Sultan's Kitchen
Why single out what is already probably Boston's only Turkish restaurant? Because there are some who work downtown and still haven't had one of their kebab sandwiches for lunch. Give 'em a shot: only your breath will suffer. 72 Broad St., Boston, MA .