Henry's Hobby House
Name something they don't have (if you can) and they'll get it for you promptly. This is the only hobby store in the state we know of that carries a full line of "build from scratch" materials. 34 Franklin St., Worcester, MA .
The tours at the Boston Athenaeum
They start up again in the fall, they're free, and the guides are straight out of Boston Brahmin Central Casting. Delightful. 10 1/2 Beacon St., Boston, MA .
Four Seasons Hotel
You have to walk through the Bristol Lounge to get to it, but the trip is worth it. Stalls measure 75 inches by 84.23 inches with individual marble sinks, Yardley liquid soap, and cloth hand towels. 200 Boylston St., Boston, MA .
Kaju Tofu House
Korean cuisine is about more than just barbecue. The signature dish at this tiny Allston joint is sundubu, a roiling crock of silken tofu stew that's enriched with a fresh egg and potent ingredients like briny oysters and funky kimchi. If you do happen to be in the mood for sizzling kalbi beef ribs, though, don't fret—they're on the menu, too. 58 Harvard Ave., Allston, MA kajutofuhouse.com.
1369 Coffee House
For two decades, 1369 has embodied the Platonic ideal of a coffee house: marvelous brews, plentiful dessert and sandwich offerings, and ample seating for the cadre of boho Cantabrigians that seemingly come straight from central casting. Already addicted to the complex, fragrant cold-brewed iced coffee, we were thrilled to learn of 1369's new delivery service: True fanatics can now get a growler of the caffeinated elixir dropped off by bike to their door. 1369 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA 1369coffeehouse.com.
Russell House Tavern
Just as good for a boisterous brunch as it is for an evening gabfest over Moscow Mules, Russell House Tavern is an ideal spot for every social objective. There are late-night $1 oysters, a patio, a choice of two bars, and a welcoming basement dining room. Plus, the staff is remarkably child-friendly, even to infants. Oh, and the food? Executive chef Michael Scelfo offers the diverse menu you'd expect, from a sloppy pork-loin sandwich to a silky foie gras-Laphroaig terrine. 14 John F. Kennedy St., Cambridge, MA 2138, russellhousecambridge.com.
The Union Oyster House
The touristy trappings, like the gift shop off to the side, are a bit disconcerting. But a stool at the half-circle bar is still the best place in the city to slurp down a dozen fresh bivalves and a nice cold beer. 41 Union St., Boston, MA .
The Union Oyster House
The semi-circular oyster bar has been in continuous operation since 1826, with the likes of Daniel Webster tossing back three dozen Blue Points at one sitting.Yes, it's on the Freedom Trail; yes, it's "America's Oldest Restaurant"; and yes, it's one of "Ye Olde" tourist magnets. But, all the hokum aside, it is simply the best place to get a dozen freshly cracked oysters. 41 Union St., Boston, MA .
Carberry's Bakery and Coffee House
The secret ingredient in Carberry's Danish pastries: almond paste, kneaded into the buttery, flaky dough. They are oversize and come in several flavors, such as sour cherry, cheese, raspberry, and vanilla cream. 74-76 Prospect Street, Cambridge, MA .
Thompson's Chowder House
We know, we know. Two Ben Thompson joints in one B & W? Hard to believe, but this place gets our vote just because it dares to serve skate. And backs it up with the best chowder (the Gloucester version) in town. North Market Building, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston, MA .
The Winery at the Pilot House
Lewis Wharf, on the waterfront in the summer. Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 15 Arlington St., Boston, on the Public Garden in the winter., Boston, MA .
Cambridge Boat House
The drinks aren't bad, either. Gerry's Landing Rd., Cambridge, MA .
The Blacksmith House Bakery & Cafe
Lighter than pound cake, sweeter than brioche, this shop's kuchen—a slightly lemony cake studded with raisins—is a revelation when spread with a little butter while still warm. In good weather you can enjoy it on the bakery's patio. 56 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA .
John Harvard's Brew House
Could be the largest cozy tavern in town. The Old Willy India Pale Ale is heavenly, especially when used to wash down the grilled sausage. 33 Dunster St., Cambridge, MA .
Salt House Inn
This is P-town's first boutique hotel, new this spring, and already we're smitten. Each of its rooms, snug and brilliant white, has plush bedding, nautical curiosities hung on the walls, and unique touches we love. WiFi and parking are gratis, as are the homemade breakfasts (try the strawberry-waffle trifle). The owners have big-city hospitality bona fides, but here their concept is relaxed beach chic. 6 Conwell St., Provincetown, MA salthouseinn.com.