Sports Club/LA
The Sports Club/LA isn't a gym—it's an experience. One that features 50 personal trainers, an Olympic-size swimming pool, four squash courts, an indoor basketball court, and 16,000 square feet of weight and cardio equipment. Fitness classes range from the classic (kickboxing, step aerobics) to the modern (BalleCore, Gyrokinesis); clients range from visiting rock stars to lithe locals. Included in the steep monthly memberships ($165-$265) are a nutritionist appointment and discounts at the on-premises Blu restaurant and Splash spa. 4 Avery St., Boston, MA 2111, thesportsclubla.com.
Newbury Tailoring Company
When the Rivas brothers relocated down the street to 91 Newbury, their patrons followed. Their tailoring team can take in or let out (not that any of your clothes ever need that) whatever you put in their deft hands, from dandy Etro suits to a pair of Sacred Blues—and they'll even keep the much coveted original hem. As the waiting area's armoire overflowing with comic book action figures suggests, when holding a needle and thread, these guys have unlimited superpowers. 91 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, .
Twig
Every girl may like flowers, but a guy won't score any points with droopy Stop & Shop carnations. A truly thoughtful gesture calls for one of Twig's custom bouquets or topiary trees. Overflowing buckets of fresh local hydrangeas and asters line the sidewalk outside Lou Whitney's small South End store; inside, potted ferns complement delicate orchids, snapdragons, and calla lilies. Send some 'just because' and keep your romance in full bloom. 558 Tremont St., Boston, MA 2114, twigboston.com.
Hot Locks
The Hot Locks staff knows hair—the salon's been at the mane game for nearly 20 years. Well-trained by co-owner Sonny Rapozo, the seven stylists deliver flattering cuts, natural color, and enticing extras like scalp massages and deep conditioning treatments (and after a week at the beach, who doesn't need one of those?). Go in for the works or a basic blowout that will leave your locks looking, well, hot. 580-B North Falmouth Highway (Rte. 28A), North Falmouth, MA 2556, hotlockssalon.com.
Bergamot
This warm, elegant Somerville bistro was cleverly designed to suit both neighborhood residents and those who travel for a celebratory meal—a nice balance that can be attributed in part to wine director Kai Gagnon's skill in choosing wines for both crowds. His bottle list is lengthy and varied—a veritable tour through Europe—but there are also nearly two-dozen by-the-glass options for those with commitment issues. Most important? The knowledgeable servers to guide you to the perfect selection. 118 Beacon St., Somerville, MA 2143, bergamotrestaurant.com.
Sweet Cheeks
Smoked meat, we've long held, is the great equalizer—the one cuisine practically everyone (vegetarians aside) can agree on. For proof, head to chef Tiffani Faison's tribute to Texas. You'll find families with toddlers, hipsters chugging Bud Light Lime, and camera-wielding tourists still buzzing about the Fenway tour—all with a huge grin accented by a smidgen of tangy sauce. The pulled pork is divine, and be sure to order a bucket of fluffy biscuits and a scoop of broccoli casserole. 1381 Boylston St., Boston, MA 2215, sweetcheeksq.com.
TC's Lounge
(IN MEMORIAM) This place was notorious for many reasons: dirty floors; a weird sign hanging from the ceiling advertising an "Oxycontin shot"; the fun-house women's room (don't ask); and the sale of infant-wear emblazoned with the words "Future Customer." In other words, TC's was a truly wonderful place—until it burned down in March. We have high hopes that after its planned resurrection, it will be "better" than ever. Boston, MA 2115,
Ten Tables
Barely bigger than a trophy wife's walk-in closet, the original Ten Tables delivers one of the most divine but relaxed meals around. Charcuterie boards bear house-cured meats and rich patés, bacony collards cozy up to pan-seared bluefish, and orange and bay leaf infuse a crème brûlée, none of it overreaching, all created by chef Sean Callahan's able team. 597 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, MA 2130, tentables.net.
Winston Flowers
An orchid among daisies, Winston Flowers has all but cornered the market west of Boston. Whether you're after luscious greens, blazing blossoms, or aromatic herbs, the colors and intricate designs here are irresistible. And with the freshest stems in town, it's no wonder Winston's blossoms hold their perfect petals higher than your average posy. 31 Central St. at Rte. 9, Wellesley, Newton, MA winstonflowers.com.
Midnight Farm
You may not be looking for anything in particular when you enter Midnight Farm, but once you lay eyes on its quirky and exotic collection of clothing, housewares, bedding, and gifts, you'll surely find an excuse to slap down your credit card. Co-owned by singer Carly Simon, the shop stocks ethereally scented lotions and body creams, soft-as-can-be knit outfits to cover some lucky baby's bottom, handmade shoes, and (of course) CDs and books signed by Simon. 18 Water-Cromwell Lane, Vineyard Haven, MA midnightfarm.net.
The Brown Jug
Once a locally beloved antique shop, the Brown Jug is now home to a different, though no less precious, stock: artisanal cheeses from far-flung makers, imported and delectable olives, Iggy's breads, pâtés, handmade pastas, and lots of herb-infused olive oils. No matter how rustic your picnic, the fixings on offer here will lend it a delicious bit of worldliness. 155 Main St., Sandwich, MA thebrownjug.com.
Jennifer Harvey, The Wellesley Center
With years of teaching under her belt, and a style that's at once soothing and energizing, it's no wonder Harvey has such a huge following. Her phenomenally popular neuromuscular integrative action class feels like MTV-meets-dance-therapy; it's a great workout regardless of your fitness level. Harvey is also great at modification, offering a class as challenging for advanced students as beginners. 140 Great Plain Ave., Wellesley, MA .
Lawn at the Museum of Transportation
A little outdoor lunch in order? Your best bet is the secluded hilltop field next to the Museum of Transportation. This public plot has all the grass and trees to spread out on, but lacks the crowds that the Esplanade is known for. Pick a warm weekend day, stretch out on the lush lawn with a basket of goodies, and take in all the kites filling the sky. You'll come home invigorated. 15 Newton Street, Brookline, MA .
The Comedy Studio
Few comedy clubs these days are actually dedicated to the craft—which makes this Harvard Square studio a rare gem. Not only does it fill seats six nights a week with a variety of acts, it also devotes time to nurturing up-and-coming cutups and runs a sought-after comedian-in-residence program. And because it's located above the Hong Kong, you can get your laughs with a side of greasy-good Peking ravioli and a scorpion bowl. 1238 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA thecomedystudio.com.
Showcase Cinema De Lux
At $19 to $24.50, the tickets are pricey. But admission to the Dedham theater's Lux Level includes many worthy indulgences: state-of-the-art digital projection, plush seats, free garage parking, food and beverage service, attentive waitstaff, and—hallelujah—a 21-plus admissions policy. You won't find a lot of (okay, any) art-house or indie films, but for mainstream fare, Cinema De Lux is a treat so addictive it could easily become habit. 670 Legacy Pl., Dedham, MA 2026, nationalamusements.com.