Cat Silirie
Most sommeliers keep their servers so oenologically clueless, it feels like a job-security scheme. Not so with Silirie, who arms every associate in Barbara Lynch's multi-restaurant gastro-empire with knowledge that extends far beyond by-the-glass pours. Ask about any esoteric bottling on Silirie's famously eclectic lists, and you'll be met with exuberant expertise, not blank stares.
Tupelo
Fun as it is to play hooky from the world at a cool, insidery haunt, at some point you need to get along home, culinarily speaking. And ringing that get-your-butt-in-here-for-supper bell with both hands is Tupelo, a southern joint that sets the table with soulful family recipes and heavenly desserts (brown-butter pecan pie!). Most Inman folks weren't raised on this kind of food, but judging by the way they've been packing into Tupelo since its April debut, maybe their kids will be. 1193 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA 2139, tupelo02139.com.
Gargoyles on the Square
Visiting Gargoyles only on date night (yes, the lighting flatters; true, the velvet cascades) is like eating oysters only to boost your mojo. Both should be enjoyed, and often, on their own merits—nooky prospects be damned. Wash away the workday with a silky but strong cocktail (we love the summer-in-a-glass Backyard), and refuel for tomorrow with chef Jason Santos's seasonally inspired fare. And, if you must, flirt at the dish sitting at the next table. Somerville, MA 2144,
Rubin's Kosher Restaurant Delicatessen
Yarmulke-bedecked customers attest to the kosher bona fides at this Brookline mainstay, where the takeout case is long and complete, the sandwiches are overstuffed with choice cuts, and the pickles—well, Rubin's knows from pickles, offered free in the tightly packed dining room. And you can bet your tuches that Bubbe would approve of the meat knish: flaky crust setting off pillowy mashed potato and salty ground beef, the whole mess served piping hot. 500 Harvard St, Brookline, MA 2446, rubinsboston.com.
Diesel Café
While the corporate megapercolators spend millions on ads that pit yuppies against average joes, the Diesel buzzes blissfully along, keeping the emphasis on the coffee. Tattered banquettes and walls covered with funky artwork provide a quirky welcome to Davis Square caffeine addicts. And one sip of the house blend—made from beans that are subtly roasted, not burnt to a crisp—confirms that the brew here is highly habit-forming. 257 Elm St., Somerville, MA 2144, diesel-cafe.com.
Tremont 647
In a neighborhood chock-full of great places to eat, Tremont 647 stands out as the community hangout for dinner, not to mention for its wacky come-dressed-in-your-pajamas Sunday brunch. Locals flock here in droves for chef Andy Husbands's menu of comfort food, from momós (Tibetan dumplings) and homemade tater tots to grilled skirt steak and garlic sausage pizza. 647 Tremont St., Boston, MA tremont647.com.
Mamma Maria
Valet parking and reservations? In the North End? Absolutely, at this house of refined and authentic Italian cooking tucked away in North Square. Better still, it's perfect for large parties, thanks to well-timed service and tables spaced just far enough apart to provide both privacy and a jolt of the room's energy. Add Rockwellian views of the neighborhood, the menu's mix of traditional and creative dishes, a diverse wine list, and you've got large-party dining nailed. 3 North Square, Boston, MA mammamaria.com.
Sadie Higgins, Sarra
There are plenty of beauty rituals that can survive a rushed appointment. Eyebrow shaping is not one of them. Sadie Higgins spends a full 45 minutes studying the shape of your face while tweezing (no wax) a natural arch precisely where it was meant to be—even if nature had other ideas. She also dispenses at-home maintenance tips, all in a gorgeous loft space. 840 Summer St., Boston, MA sarrastudios.com.
Peter Welch's Gym
If you prefer a gym that's a glorified spa, look elsewhere. But if you want to train like a pro, then go where actual professionals work out. In the case of boxing, that's Peter Welch's Gym. Hidden in a warehouse in Southie, it's old-school, with real rings, real equipment, and real fighters leading each class. You'll learn proper punching and evasive techniques while getting the best workout of your life. 371 Dorchester Ave., South Boston, MA peterwelchsgym.com.
Lotus Designs
Earlier this year, Lotus relocated from Columbus to Tremont, and on crisp days, the shop's ambrosial array of flowers spills out onto the sidewalks. Watch the weekly parade of dramatic arrangements filing out to the parlors of tony South End townhouses, while you choose a set creation or design one of your own. Just be sure to request a few of their specialty blooms, including the gorgeous rare orchids. 977 Tremont St., Boston, MA lotusdesignsflowers.com.
G2O Spa & Salon
Fireside lounge. Penthouse roof deck. Inhalation-therapy relaxation room. The amenities at this vast Newbury Street retreat are top-notch—as are the always-invigorating services. Whether you stop in for a deep-hydration facial or a quick post-lunch manicure, the staffers here will treat you like a star, leaving you looking and feeling your best. 278 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, g2ospasalon.com.
Nine Zero
While not entirely indie—it's part of the Kimpton hotel group—Nine Zero is a singularly splendid place to lay your head. All rooms boast robes, European linens, and windows that open to let in the fresh air. But if you're lucky enough to book one of the Premier View offerings—or, even better, the Cloud Nine Suite—you'll be treated to some of the best vistas in the city. 90 Tremont St., Boston, MA 2108, ninezero.com.
Bradley & Diegel
What's your dream hair length? Want more layers? Or maybe a cappuccino? The staff at this salon asks all the right questions, ensuring that each client ends up with a gorgeous style to fit her taste, and gets a respite from the bustle of Newbury below. Plus, the well-spaced stations, ahh-inducing massage chairs, and large front windows bathing the place in natural light make the whole experience second to none. 77 Newbury St, Boston, MA 2116, bradleyanddiegel.com.
Amy Leydon, Exhale and The Sports Club/LA
A former Emmy-winning television producer, Leydon spices up traditional (but challenging) vinyasa-flow yoga with inspiring music and unexpected sequences to show aspiring yogis how to find their own path to limber inner peace. Free advice: "Remember that yoga is noncompetitive. We live in a culture that makes it hard to let go of egos, but when you're doing precarious positions for the first time, you have to back off and go at your own pace." 28 Arlington St.; 4 Avery St., Boston, MA 02116; 02111, exhalespa.com; thesportsclubla.com.
Canyon Ranch
Peace and quiet don't come cheap. (If you have to ask how much, sweetie, you can't afford it.) But the Ranch's formula for relaxation is worth every buck: no cell phones, no booze, no table salt, and plenty of yoga and pampering. And since the resort's amenities also include nutrition classes and cooking demos, you're guaranteed to leave not only your stress behind, but a few pounds as well. 165 Kemble St., Lenox, MA 1240, canyonranch.com.