Alan Rouleau
Whether you want a knock-off of a Zegna suit (with fabric from the Italian Mill) or simply someone to shorten a hem, Rouleau and his team of master tailors can do the trick. His latest triumph: downsizing a tiny Dolce and Gabbana bustier for a client who couldn't resist a too-big one on sale. Look for new locations in the Back Bay (this fall) and the financial district (1996). 91 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Moth
If it seems that women up and down the shore are looking more and more chic, credit ex-model Haven Tyler's foray into designer retailing. Where else in the area can you find frilly Theory camisoles and sheer and shimmery Dubuc blouses—let alone beribboned Rebecca Taylor jackets, Richard Tyler stilettos, and Luella bags? The comprehensive library of hot denim alone (Citizens of Humanity, Red Engine, Chip & Pepper) brings needed flash to these otherwise staid South Shore suburbs. 53 South St., Hingham, MA .
Horseneck Beach
When it comes to kicking back in the dunes, the first order of business is to make sure you find enough room to stretch out. Horseneck has all the breathing room you need to relax, with almost 600 acres of barrier beach and salt marsh, plus two miles of soft sand at the western end of Buzzards Bay. What could be better than that? Ample parking, of course—and you'll find that here, too. Rte. 88, Westport, MA mass.gov/dcr/parks/southeast/hbch.htm.
Bridgeman's Restaurant
Not since Paragon Park shut down has Nantasket Beach seen such an attraction. Nearly every night, the locals line up for the energetic scene at the long, sleek bars; for the genteel, white-linened dining area; and, natch, for the Italian-inspired fixings of chef Paul Wahlberg (yes, Mark's brother.) Spicy penne in a sweet sausage tomato sauce that's redolent of basil; delicious fried clams; silky, saffron-laced carrot soup—it's all delivered by an unassuming but knowledgeable staff and enjoyed with a view of the frothy Atlantic Ocean. 145 Nantasket Ave., Hull, MA bridgemansrestaurant.com.
Mr. Sid
Head west, young man, to Newton Centre. There you'll find Mr. Sid, the shop that caters to classy guys looking to dress to the nines in Armani, Hugo Boss, Zegna, and Corneliani. Helpful, knowledgeable, and courteous salesmen escort customers through the store, which is divided into smaller areas by collections. Tired of shopping? There's an in-store pool table, a hair salon, and a well-stocked bar. 1211 Centre St., Newton Centre, MA mrsid.com.
The Brattle Theatre
The Brattle is one of the most esteemed repertory movie theaters in the country, but it's a fragile thing—this winter, it had to launch a $140,000 Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for a projector and HVAC renovation. The gambit succeeded, which means visitors can continue to enjoy an unparalleled selection of films old and new—while drinking Slumbrew and other local beers. 40 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA brattlefilm.org.
Sacco's Bowl Haven
There are flashier lanes in town—theme park-like emporiums with flat-screen TVs and signature cocktails. But the laid-back atmosphere of Sacco's wins it top honors. It's complete throwback awesomeness, from the candlepin setup to the pencil-and-paper mode of scorekeeping. If there's a wait, grab a seat at the bar, order a Flatbread Company pizza and a Pretty Things pint, and kick back. 45 Day St., Somerville, MA 2144, .
Great Scott
A terrific core of rock clubs anchors Boston's music scene, places like T. T. the Bear's, the Middle East, and the Midway Café. But if you're into discovering emerging bands, Great Scott is the finest; it's been booking the best new talent for years (including early concerts from Of Montreal and MGMT). What's more, the sound is exceptional, and the place is so tiny there's no backstage area, leaving musicians little choice but to mingle with the crowd. 1222 Commonwealth Ave., Allston, MA 2134, greatscottboston.com.
Franklin Cafe
The ideal late-night eatery has two virtues: a killer scene and rich, indulgent fare that satisfies post-midnight cravings. Come 1 a.m. at Franklin Café, you'll find a mix of after-work chefs, neighborhood night owls, and late-night revelers that makes the place feel like an afterparty. You'll also find food favorites like seared gnocchi, steak frites, and pan-roasted chicken, served until 1:30 (the bar stays open until 2). 278 Shawmut Ave., Boston, MA 2118, franklincafe.com.
Kings Lanes
Kings is the ultimate crossroads for the 16-pound ball and the 16-ounce Bud. Though it has a vintage, Vegas-style veneer, the subterranean entertainment complex is decidedly modern, with high-tech scorekeeping machines and a phalanx of high-def TVs. Though the crowds of stylish professionals and grad students can mean long lines for pool tables and lanes, they also make for a buzzing scene. Don't despair if faced with an hourlong wait: Just order a martini and content yourself with people-watching. This is an equally prime location to watch or play. 50 Dalton St., Boston, MA 2115, kingsbowlamerica.com.
Swing City
Not into urban clubs filled with grinding torsos and ear-splitting music? Check out Swing City. Don't let the '70s-era orange carpet or dark wood paneling fool you: This Friday-night dance spot's live bands and jiving jitterbugging make up for the questionable aesthetics. Revelers can join free group lessons or shake it on their own. VFW, 688 Huron Ave., Cambridge, MA swingcityboston.com.
WMBR (88.1 FM) and WZBC (90.3 FM)
They aren't just a whole lot cooler than 'FNX, 'BCN, and all the other top-40 alterna-drivel, these college stations aren't even allowed to broadcast commercials. From M.I.T. and Boston College respectively, these kids pump out a wild array of shows, often with scary bands like Neutral Milk Hotel and Slits.
Boston by Foot
Let's face it, Boston's a walking town; buy into a pricey gimmick tour, and you'll spend half the time stuck in traffic. At Boston By Foot, though, the guides are volunteers; you pick your thematic pleasure (seven tours cover everything from the Freedom Trail to Victorian Back Bay, Beacon Hill, or the popular "Boston Underground," about the engineering of the subway and the Big Dig); and of all you avoid congestion, get exercise, and learn about Boston all at once. 77 N. Washington St., Boston, MA .
Chris Konevil
If Shirley Temple had grown up to be a more generously proportioned, raunchy queen, she would have turned into Chris Konevil. Chris can be seen performing at Jacques to the song "Barbie Girl" and "I'm Gonna Be a Supermodel." She's also a bartender at Avalon on Sunday nights. If you have a need to be both entertained and verbally abused, Chris and the rest of the gang at Jacques can give you what you need. Bring a lot of dollar bills and a readiness to hoot and holler. Jacques, 79 Broadway, Boston, MA .
Governor William Floyd (as in Pink) Weld
If it were up to the city's 15- and 16-year-olds, Bill Weld would be a shoo-in for senator based on his move to restore Esplanade concerts by bands like Green Day, They Might be Giants, and Letters to Cleo. Who cares about welfare and taxes? When it comes time to cast a ballot, remember who took a bold stand on the most important of campaign issues—the freedom to rock.