<em>Common-wealth</em>
Common-wealth copped five Sigma Delta Chi awards this year—not bad for an eighty-page, four-color magazine that grew out of a four-page newsletter. Just think what we should expect from the Globe. Boston University, Boston, MA .
Winston Flowers
Flowers are the most fleeting of gifts, yet the breathtaking bouquets and potted plants from Winston's Hingham outpost somehow last for weeks on end. Planning an event or shower? The possibilities here are nearly limitless, thanks to the shop's talented designers, who can make something beautiful with four weeks—or four hours—notice. 8 Main St., Hingham, MA 2043, winstonflowers.com.
Galleria Italiana
By day it's a fast-food Italian eatery, but four nights a week Galleria Italiana is transformed into a trattoria, complete with background opera music and an Abruzzi-inspired menu. Try the risotto with spinach and four cheeses or the pasta with tiny mussels from New Zealand. 177 Tremont St., Boston, MA .
Joanne Langione Dance Center
A star among dance schools for four decades, Joanne Langione raised the bar even higher last year by opening a 10,000-square-foot facility complete with four modern studios. Many alums have gone on to careers in professional dance companies. 38 Border St., Newton, MA 02465, jldancecenter.com.
The Someday Cafe
Coffee drinks don't come more sublime than the Four-Binger latte at this Pacific Northwest hangout. Baristas layer four ultra-smooth espresso shots and silky steamed milk in a tall glass; no sugar needed. Close your eyes and dream of Seattle. 51 Davis Square, Somerville, MA .
Herb Richman's
When the Data General vice president and cofounder dissolved his merger with his third wife, Nanette, he bailed out with the couple's $4-million Dover farm, their Boston townhouse, his Waterville Valley real estate, his millions in DG stock and assorted assets. All Nanette got was a flat $1 million, two mink coats, and numerous four-legged creatures and four-wheeled vehicles.
Modern Pastry Shop
Cannoli should never be filled until you enter the bakery and say, "Four cannoli, please." At which point the white-smocked helper at Modern will slip into the back of the shop, return with four freshly filled pastries, give them a light dusting of powdered sugar, and warp them in one of those classic boxes tied with red-and-white string. 257 Hanover St., Boston, MA .
Forty Winks
Feeling sexy begins with what’s underneath your clothes. Let this four-year-old Harvard Square outfitter help you build a beautiful foundation with its fine selection of intimates from Elle MacPherson, Chantelle, Claudette, Hanky Panky, and other luxe lines. In addition to underpinnings and unmentionables, Forty Winks has you covered—literally—for all four seasons with sophisticated hosiery, flirty swimwear, and soft cotton pajamas. 56 JFK St., Cambridge, MA 2138, shopfortywinks.com.
The Tam
There are three good reasons for the line at the door: fine food, rockin' music, and a smooth dance floor. 1648 Beacon St., Brookline, MA .
Wellbridge Athletic Club
Brainy Cantabrigians tone their bodies with Wellbridge's two floors of workout gear. 5 Bennett St., Cambridge, MA 2138, wellbridgeac.com.
The women's dressing room at Filene's Basement
A long-overdue addition. But it's too small, and the strip shows on the floor still go on. Boston, MA
Mass Hardware
With a parking lot, three floors of stuff, and a staff that knows the name for the thingamajig you need. 170 High St., Waltham, MA .
Copley Place
Don't let the first floor scare you. You can find good buys on the second level.
Dr. Mark Russo
Drawing on acupuncture and other Far Eastern practices, this vet's approach may seem unorthodox. But Kitty no longer pees on our floors—and who can argue with that? Kingston Animal Hospital, 192 Main St., Kingston, MA .
Neiman-Marcus
Tucked away on the mezzanine, with a terrific view of the first floor and just enough privacy for a tête-à-tête. Copley Place, Boston, MA .