That the Boston Ballet's hiring of artistic director Mikko Nissinen, once dubbed "The Flying Finn," will put an end to the company's soaring exits and financial woes.
Hubert Jessup's decision to hire Rory O'Connor as director of the Neighborhood News Network and its half-hour nightly telecast for Boston cable-TV subscribers.
Corinne Schippert
Boston is the home to many extraordinary photographers, but even rivals sing the praises of Corinne Schippert. Her work is a delightful blend of artistry, elegance, and fun; she injects a sense of spontaneity into everything (even that often-stiff staple, the group portrait). One of the cameras she uses is panoramic—an option that provides an unexpected and adventurous perspective. 20 Coolidge Rd., Arlington, MA schippertmartin.com.
John Gertsen, No. 9 Park
Charm and meticulousness have earned this mixologist more than his fair share of props. But that's no reason to deny him this year's Best of Boston nod, especially as we anticipate his residence (and ours) at Drink, part of Barbara Lynch's coming gastronomic juggernaut in Fort Point Channel. 9 Park St., Boston, MA 2108, .
Alan Bilzerian
Believe it or not, there are some men and women in Boston who like edgy attire. Alan and Be Bilzerian have catered to the fashion visionaries for more than 20 years by showcasing the avant-garde designs of people like Olivier Theyskens, Comme des Garcons and Yohji Yamamoto. Thank Goodness. 34 Newbury Street, Boston, MA alanbilzerian.com.
Bock Travel Service
How many travel agents do you know who can claim to have sung with Edith Piaf? Alexander Bock, who did, knows Paris (and London and Rome and Bombay and Tokyo) better than most travel agents know Boston. Park Square Building, Boston, MA .
Tugboat Annie
This guitar-oriented quintet from Brighton has been compared to other Boston success stories such as the Pixies, the Lemonheads, and Buffalo Tom. Since its arrival in Beantown, it has released two full-length Cds: Superfriends, in 1995, and Wake Up and Disappear, this past spring, full of catchy, albeit moody, pop tunes.
Lori-Ann's Donut Shop
Famous in Charlestown for its tasty pastries, Lori-Ann's serves up a wide selection of the doughy goodies made on the premises daily. The shop is also a rare survivor: Fully two-thirds of the doughnut shops listed in Greater Boston have the pink double D on the marquee. Fred the baker, begone. 198 Bunker Hill St., Charlestown, MA .
Warren Tavern
Paul Revere called it his favorite watering hole. George Washington is said to have stopped by for a brewski. Since then, thousands of townies have lifted a pint to their memories. The oldest tavern in continuous operation in the city of Boston, this is the real prototype for Cheers. 2 Pleasant Street, Charlestown, MA .
Massachusetts Department of Revenue
"It's okay to hold the mayonnaise or mustard but not the meals tax," warned the DOR when temporarily closing down that Boston landmark and gastronomic nightmare, Buzzy's Fabulous Roast Beef. Who said bureaucrats don't have a sense of humor?
Davio's Riviera Cafe at the Royal Sonesta Hotel
A spectacular view of the Charles River and the Boston skyline, free appetizers during the week from 5 to 6:30 p.m., and live reggae on Thursday evenings. 5 Cambridge Parkway, Cambridge, MA .
La Española Restaurant
Dominican food, made by Cubans. Also wins best refugee hangout award, edging out the Rendezvous (Vietnamese) in Cambridge and Bangkok Cuisine (Thai) in Boston. 405 Center St., Jamaica Plain, MA .
Northwest Orient
On those rare occasions when the line isn't on strike, the Boston-Minneapolis run may feature shrimp salad, filet mignon, and a complimentary split of Mateus. MA
Gyuhama of Japan
This subterranean oasis is the only place in Boston that satisfies our craving for great sushi as well as our need for a real Tokyo sushi bar. 827 Boylston St., Boston, MA .
Polkadog Bakery
Your dogs and cats will go crazy — or might even sit still — for the dried, locally caught cod skins, chicken jerky, and many other delicacies from Polkadog. It makes sense, when you consider the treats are handmade in small batches right here in Boston from locally sourced ingredients. Multiple locations. polkadog.com.