The Classico, at Marcella's
Provolone, prosciutto, capicolla, and sweet-and-sour red peppers stacked high and bathed in extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Big enough for two. 1808 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA .
Mozamba
This 8-to-10-member band fuses calypso, African, and funk styles to make infectious, uplifting music that explains the packed houses and dancing crowds wherever it plays.
Sam’s at Louis
Enjoy house-cured corned-beef hash, generously sized (and spiced) bloody marys, and glorious harbor views. 60 Northern Ave., Fort Point/Waterfront, MA 2110, samsatlouis.com.
Lilly at L'Elegance
Whether your nails are as long as a soap-opera villainess's, or chewed to the quick, Lilly will shape them to perfection. 103 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Bon Visage
Give your hands to Bella, whose thorough but gentle manicures and pleasant personality have attracted a justifiably devoted clientele. 69 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Frank and Pete's Shoe Repair
An old-fashioned shop with polish—literally. When they do sole and heel work, they polish your shoes at no extra charge. 239 Faneuil Street, Brighton, MA .
Bush Quality Cleaners
They don't literally clean your clothes on the spot, but they pickup and deliver at office buildings for no extra charge. 101 Federal Street, Boston, MA .
J's Treework
Jay Crocker and John Elliott will scale the highest heights to keep your trees safe and aesthetically pleasing. They do landscaping, too. 95 Walpole Street, Dover, MA .
Summer Girls, University Home Services
This firm will arrange for qualified baby-sitters to accompany your family on vacation and help take care of the kids, at modest prices. 9 Crest Rd., Wellesley, MA .
The Fabric Showroom, Brighton Upholstery
Incredible buys for anyone in the market for fabrics by leading houses, on sale for as much as 70 percent below retail. 319 Washington St., Brighton, MA .
Julien Restaurant, the Meridien Hotel
Soft piano music and low lights make this your best bet that a first date will lead to a second. 250 Franklin St., Boston, MA .
Thai Cuisine
To extinguish the fires from the blazing red-curry dishes and other house specialties, order a Singha beer. 14A Westland Ave., Boston, MA .
The Mall at Chestnut Hill
One of the most elegant malls on the East coast. Rated four stars by the Society of Bankrupt Husbands. Route 9, Newton, MA .
Pat Corcoran at the Lenox Hotel
She'll talk your head off, but she's great at shaping hair (even thin and thinning hair). 710 Boylston St., Boston, MA .
Chef Chang's
The chef himself carves it at your table. Don't be disconcerted by the fact that it arrives with its head still on. 1006 Beacon St., Brookline, MA .