Cookies Cook'n
Especially the chocolate chip cookies, which edged out last year's champs from the Boston Chipyard. Meadow Glen Mall, Medford, MA .
Nina Nielsen
Nielsen brings Boston the most painterly painters, including New York abstractionist John Walker. 179 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
"Knocking Heads"
The Dance Collective's "Knocking Heads" program with choreography by Martha Armstrong Gray and Dawn Kramer. Lifting Boston dance to new heights.
Lithuanian Kitchen
Those in the know head to the South Boston Lithuanian Club's basement for hearty, authentic Eastern European fare. Alas, weekends only. 368 W. Broadway, Boston, MA 2127, .
Cafe Louis
Elegant and satisfying—just what we'd expect from a cafe in Louis, Boston. 234 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA .
Biba
Lydia Shire's uncanny ability to combine flavors and textures of foods from around the world is unparalleled in any restaurant in Boston. 272 Boylston Street, Boston, MA .
Jake's Que-4-U
If the original Bostonians made beans like these, Boston today would be the hippest city in the country. Indescribably delicious. Blue Hill Ave., Roxbury, MA .
John Dewar's and Company
Everything at Dewar's is the prime of prime. And if you ever need poussin in a pinch, this is the place to go. All the best chefs in Boston do. 753 Beacon St., Newton Center, MA .
Wingo
The Boston Herald goes bingo. And don't tell us you don't check your card every morning.
Penn and Teller, at the Colonial
The antimagic magicians. They get rid of the hoke and keep the wonder. By far, the best show in Boston last year.
Third Stage
The new album by the synthetic-rock group Boston was six years in the making and worth the wait.
The Custom House
Boston musician Fran Sheehan has put together an extensive, well-priced list at this North Shore establishment. 9 Atlantic Ave., Marblehead, MA .
The Quarterdeck
Terrific view of Boston and the harbor. Not so terrific bar. 13 Eighth St., Charlestown, MA .
Larry Moulter for Paul Mooney
The new president of the Boston Garden has introduced courtesy, better food, and celebrity cachet to the old arena. Whoever expected to see U2 shooting baskets on the parquet floor?