Peter Welch's Gym
If you prefer a gym that's a glorified spa, look elsewhere. But if you want to train like a pro, then go where actual professionals work out. In the case of boxing, that's Peter Welch's Gym. Hidden in a warehouse in Southie, it's old-school, with real rings, real equipment, and real fighters leading each class. You'll learn proper punching and evasive techniques while getting the best workout of your life. 371 Dorchester Ave., South Boston, MA peterwelchsgym.com.
Lotus Designs
Earlier this year, Lotus relocated from Columbus to Tremont, and on crisp days, the shop's ambrosial array of flowers spills out onto the sidewalks. Watch the weekly parade of dramatic arrangements filing out to the parlors of tony South End townhouses, while you choose a set creation or design one of your own. Just be sure to request a few of their specialty blooms, including the gorgeous rare orchids. 977 Tremont St., Boston, MA lotusdesignsflowers.com.
G2O Spa & Salon
Fireside lounge. Penthouse roof deck. Inhalation-therapy relaxation room. The amenities at this vast Newbury Street retreat are top-notch—as are the always-invigorating services. Whether you stop in for a deep-hydration facial or a quick post-lunch manicure, the staffers here will treat you like a star, leaving you looking and feeling your best. 278 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, g2ospasalon.com.
Nine Zero
While not entirely indie—it's part of the Kimpton hotel group—Nine Zero is a singularly splendid place to lay your head. All rooms boast robes, European linens, and windows that open to let in the fresh air. But if you're lucky enough to book one of the Premier View offerings—or, even better, the Cloud Nine Suite—you'll be treated to some of the best vistas in the city. 90 Tremont St., Boston, MA 2108, ninezero.com.
Bradley & Diegel
What's your dream hair length? Want more layers? Or maybe a cappuccino? The staff at this salon asks all the right questions, ensuring that each client ends up with a gorgeous style to fit her taste, and gets a respite from the bustle of Newbury below. Plus, the well-spaced stations, ahh-inducing massage chairs, and large front windows bathing the place in natural light make the whole experience second to none. 77 Newbury St, Boston, MA 2116, bradleyanddiegel.com.
Amy Leydon, Exhale and The Sports Club/LA
A former Emmy-winning television producer, Leydon spices up traditional (but challenging) vinyasa-flow yoga with inspiring music and unexpected sequences to show aspiring yogis how to find their own path to limber inner peace. Free advice: "Remember that yoga is noncompetitive. We live in a culture that makes it hard to let go of egos, but when you're doing precarious positions for the first time, you have to back off and go at your own pace." 28 Arlington St.; 4 Avery St., Boston, MA 02116; 02111, exhalespa.com; thesportsclubla.com.
Canyon Ranch
Peace and quiet don't come cheap. (If you have to ask how much, sweetie, you can't afford it.) But the Ranch's formula for relaxation is worth every buck: no cell phones, no booze, no table salt, and plenty of yoga and pampering. And since the resort's amenities also include nutrition classes and cooking demos, you're guaranteed to leave not only your stress behind, but a few pounds as well. 165 Kemble St., Lenox, MA 1240, canyonranch.com.
Back Bay Framery
Even the prettiest picture becomes an eyesore when confined to an ugly frame. A cure for such unsightliness can be found at this Back Bay fixture, where owner Kerrie Thomas frames preschoolers' doodlings, World War II medals, and everything in between. Choose from thousands of moldings in such hard-to-find materials as 24-karat gold, sterling silver leaf, and Peruvian leather. Also available are a range of albums to store those photos tagged for-your-eyes-only. Like the ones from that night at Whiskey Park. 303 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, backbayframery.com.
Salem Diner
Escape the school groups screaming outside the Witch Museum and hit the Salem Diner, a former classic one-ended streamliner train car. With its quintessential counters and stools, The Salem starts the day at 5 a.m. with artery-clogging greasy spoon staples. It also serves stellar stick-to-your-ribs daily lunch specials such as baked fresh scallops and homemade stuffed cabbage. 326 Canal Street, Salem, MA .
Santarpio's Pizza
Eastie's answer to pizza heaven is definitely a grass-roots experience. There is no ambiance at Santarpio's, to be sure, but there is fabulous dough. All pies are made in the restaurant's own wood-fired oven, and toppings including grilled sausage and lamb are made on-premises. No, they probably don't deliver to your street. Yes, the pizza is good enough to warrant the schlep. The regulars are welcoming too. 113 Chelsea Street, East Boston, MA santarpiospizza.com.
Grotto
A stone's throw from the gold-domed capitol, Grotto is a quietly luxurious refuge for well-to-do Beacon Hill residents looking to escape touristy Charles Street for a light lunch or dinner (a prix fixe is offered daily). And when they want something heartier, there are dishes like house-made ;tagliatelle or beef tenderloin over creamy risotto. But the three words that keep Beacon Hillers—and a lucky few hoi polloi—returning time and time again: banana bread pudding. 37 Bowdoin St., Boston, MA 2114, grottorestaurant.com.
Menton
Barbara Lynch's haute-cuisine mecca was an instant sensation when it opened in 2010. The parade of tiny, striking dishes! The feather-light glassware! The prices! And the place has only improved over time, from the stunning prix-fixe menus to the staffers who anticipate your every need. We're not alone in noticing. In February the restaurant became Boston's first Relais & Châteaux property, a distinction reserved for the likes of Eleven Madison Park and the French Laundry. 354 Congress St., Boston, MA 2210, mentonboston.com.
Saus
A truly great fry is only as good as the stuff you dip it in. And while we love Heinz as much as the next guy, It's hard to top this ;frites shop's cheddar Duvel sauce, garlicky "Vampire Slayer' aioli, and truffle ketchup—merely a few of the condiments available. Order your cone of hand-cut, cooked-to-order spuds with a deep-fried egg on top, and write us a thank-you note later. 33 Union St., Boston, MA 2108, eatfrites.com.
Cognac Bistro
Who knew a gas station could be so appealingly reborn as a restaurant? And yet, all of Brookline seems to be angling for a seat at this new bistro. Its classic French dishes teem with fresh, local seafood and sustainably raised ingredients (the mussels escargot and house-made gnocchi are particular coups). Bonus points for the occasional $1 oyster specials and first-rate desserts. 455 Harvard St., Brookline, MA 2446, cognacbistro.com.
Robert Bilello
Need help finding the perfect private school for junior? Bilello worked for nine years as director of secondary school placement at Fessenden, where he developed extensive contacts at secondary schools throughout the country. His honesty will help you sort through the realistic options for your precious offspring, and involve them in the process as well. Great at keeping kids motivated through the highly competitive application process. 91 Wymn Street, Waban, MA .