Backbar
Discerning boozehounds have long since perfected the art of snaking into this legitimately industrial hideaway, but Backbar’s drink artistry also extends to its deceptively potent non-alcoholic offerings. The unexpected-in-one-glass flavors are what pack a punch. An "avocado piña colada" is at once hot and cold, with familiar coconut milk and pineapple spiked with throat-warming curry and unctuous avocado. A fennel-saffron " absinthe lemonade without any absinthe" is a brighter, more brilliant spin on Death in the Afternoon—without, you know, the impending death. 7 Sanborn Ct., Somerville, MA 2143, backbarunion.com.
Bricco Panetteria
The rustic mite loaves and prosciutto-and-Parmesan-studded ciabattas at this North End bakery, located down an alley off Hanover Street, are a reminder that bread-baking is not only a precise science, but also an art form. Across from the bakery you’ll find Bricco’s new salumeria and pasta shop, which offers another must-have: hearty, spongy focaccia topped with everything from artichokes to arugula. 241 Hanover St., Boston, MA 2113, bricco.com/panetteria.
Bella Sante
Unlike the various do-everything McSpas around town, Bella Sante succeeds with a focused approach: extremely well-trained aestheticians; European-made products; a clean, comfortable space; and a changing slate of seasonal treatments. The friendly, unobtrusive staff excels in the art of paying attention, and will have you blissfully self-absorbed (what meetings? what kids?) in no time. 38 Newbury St., Boston, MA bellasante.com.
The Centerpiece Flower Shop
Nothing cheers up a space like a gorgeous bouquet of fresh flowers. And these days, no one’s spreading more flower-powered joy than ángel Diaz. With an eye for design, the Venezuela native and owner of the Centerpiece Flower Shop — founded in 2020 — uses seasonal blooms and greenery to create artful arrangements bursting with color and texture. Bonus points for his monthly subscription service, which promises mood-boosting handtied bouquets delivered on your date of choice. 2051 Centre St., West Roxbury, MA 02132, thecenterpieceflowershop.com.
Michele Mercaldo Jewelry
Michele Mercaldo must have aced geometry — after all, this jewelry artist can sculpt the perfect rectangle and circle like no other. A MassArt alum, Mercaldo has devoted the past 30 years to creating ruby rings, brown-diamond necklaces, and prehnite druzy cufflinks, to name just a few. Browse the cases at her sparkling Shawmut Avenue studio, or make an appointment to have her custom-design something just for you in whatever shape you dream of. 276 Shawmut Ave., Boston, MA 02118, michelemercaldojewelry.com.
Big Night Live
THE SCENE: The Hub on Causeway’s nightlife destination boasts state-of-the-art LEDs and luxe trappings — and not just for VIPs (did someone say champagne bottle service?). THE LINEUP: Globetrotting DJs like Steve Aoki and Slander, plus an eclectic menagerie of big names in pop-punk, death metal, old- and new-school rap, and everything in between. 110 Causeway St., Boston, MA 02114, bignightlive.com.
Jenny’s Wedding Cakes
You won’t find any rainbow-hued cakes in Jenny Williamson’s portfolio—and that’s on purpose. The Amesbury baker takes a more refined approach, lending her pared-down aesthetic to bespoke confections almost too pretty to eat. Her penchant for art shines through in meticulously crafted florals and ruffles, while her 20-plus years of baking translates to perfected flavors. Whether you choose a cake filled with strawberry-champagne buttercream or layered with chocolate ganache, these extra-special desserts hit the (sweet) spot. MA jencakes.com.
Company One Theatre
Let's get one thing straight: Fringe isn't synonymous with small. In fact, the fringe companies in town are all about big ideas, big risks, and big heart, none more so than Company One Theatre, a long-standing resident of the Boston Center for the Arts. Dedicated to performances you aren't likely to forget (did you see the perfectly perturbed Shockheaded Peter ?), Company One should be celebrated not only for its adventurous theatrical achievements, but also for its efforts to carve out a more diverse, informed, and open-minded city. 539 Tremont St., Boston, MA 02116, companyone.org.
Winston Flowers
Yes, it's a chain. But our search for comparable quality and variety in the area always leads us back here. Visit the artfully arranged shop in person and you'll come face to face with bushels of oversized dahlias, silky long-stemmed roses, and of course, dozens of the store's signature, precisely designed arrangements. The space feels like a Tuscan villa, with topiary trees and buckets of seasonal blooms. As for out-of-state delivery, the staff's well-deserved reputation for attention to detail means you'll never have to worry about red carnations getting in the mix. 31 Central St., Wellesley, MA winstonflowers.com.
Stellabella
Only enlightened children need apply. Stellabella, you see, is a completely gun-free shop that specializes in educational toys. But before you start criticizing what political correctness has done to childhood fun, check out the selection: nature projects, musical instruments, colorful science puzzles, and bulk art supplies. Better still, look at what the kids are doing. They're singing songs, painting, listening to stories, riding on oversized stuffed animals: just plain playing. Prices are reasonable, and the staff is beyond helpful. It's like one big PBS special come to life. 1360 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA stellabellatoys.com.
Matsu
What's the use of having disposable income if you go and blow it on disposable style? For accoutrements with staying power—and that won't show up on Bluefly three weeks later—look to Matsu, where owner Dava Muramatsu has been growing and refining her accessories collection for years. In a season of understated dressing, her look-at-me handbags, jewelry, and hats make everything around them pop. Leather and embellished totes by Jamin Puech and M0851 are works of art, while mixed-metal jewelry by Heather Moore, Chan Luu, and Ten Thousand Things are far sounder investments than a statement necklace with an expiration date. 264 Newbury St, Boston, MA 2116, matsuboston.com.
Tom Mosser's <em>Celebrating Spencer</em>
Man’s best Boston Marathon friend, Spencer the golden retriever — who for years stood fast along the race route supporting runners — may be in doggie heaven after losing his battle with cancer in February, but his likeness lives on forever thanks to a Tom Mosser portrait commissioned by Spencer’s human Richard Powers. Exhibited this year just minutes from the race’s starting line, at the Hopkinton Center for the Arts, Celebrating Spencer shows the official marathon dog holding a Boston Strong banner — a dutiful inspiration to future generations of very good boys.
Dream Kid Spa
Kids like getting pampered as much as grownups do — but nail salons aren’t exactly a fun place to hang out. That’s where this brand-new kid-focused spa in Hyde Park comes in. With Disney tunes setting the scene, skilled technicians twirl in pink tutus and charming aprons, ready to give your prince or princess the royal treatment. Donning a spa robe, kids are seated on a throne while they enjoy a mani-pedi featuring whimsical nail art, a sparkly ring, and glitter lotion on their tiny feet. And did someone say party favors? After the regal service, continue the magic at home with an add-on “Dream Box” filled with toys and spa goodies. 15 Dana Ave., Hyde Park, MA 02316, dreamkidspa.com.
Yafa Bakery & Café
Every baked good or sweet treat is a work of art at Yafa, whose menu showcases flavors of the Middle East, from pistachio to orange blossom. A parade of dates — with various nut and citrus fillings and chocolate and gold-leaf wraps — take center stage, surrounded by delicately shaped pastries in a variety of styles. Savory breads, too, are a must-try, especially whichever one just came out of the oven. Linger over a sweet lemonada, and you might find yourself tasting an extra treat or two, courtesy of the incredibly hospitable staff. 594 Somerville Ave., Somerville, MA 02143, yafabakerycafe.com.
Dragon Pizza
These pies clearly show a passion for the art of pizza-making without being too precious for a Tuesday-night snack. Toppings are top-notch and cover every craving: There’s the ruddy spice of house-made red-wine-and-garlic sausage. The sweet-and-salty dialogue between bacon and drizzles of chili-spiked maple syrup sourced from a sugar shack in the Adirondacks. Even citrus accents to balance the richness in Dragon’s lemon-chicken pizza, a nod to the signature dish at the late, great Hamersley’s Bistro. Read more 233 Elm St., Somerville, MA .