Frette
If you're spending too much time counting sheep, drag your weary bones to Frette, where the bedding experts will help you unravel the mysteries of linens—for example, thread count (the higher the number, the heavier the sheet). The store carries sheets, quilts, bedspreads, and accessories by top designers, in addition to the in-house line, which comes in both classic shades and colorful prints. 776B Boylston St., Boston, MA frette.com.
The Hawthorne
Enjoy hosting your friends in your über-cool city apartment while mixing up painstakingly hand-swizzled drinks? Going to the Hawthorne is a lot like that, with a built-in cleanup crew and a better bartender (no offense). This place is as persnickety about its elixirs as any cocktail bar in the country, but exudes a refreshing "Come in, let us make you happy" attitude. 500 A Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 2215, thehawthornebar.com.
O'Hara's Food & Spirits
Arguably too popular for its own good, O'Hara's sees some borderline ridiculous competition for tables on busy nights. It's not hard to see why: The lively atmosphere, tasty fare, delicious drinks, and easygoing scene encourage chats with old friends and meetings with new ones. If you can't stomach the wait for a table, dive in, snag a seat at the bar, and just enjoy the social swirl around you. 1185 Walnut St., Newton Highlands, MA oharas.us.
Papas Fritas
Many starry-eyed bands crawl up from the primordial soup of Somerville, but few are chosen. On the trio's latest Minty Fresh release, Helioself Papas Fritas consistently transcends the merely catchy to achieve solid Beatles-reminiscent pop you don't mind having stuck in your head all day. Papas Fritas has arrived.
Tia's at Long Wharf
And they mean on the waterfront. Tia's is the place-to-be-outside. A large, open barroom sprawls out to the patio, which is usually full of young professionals trying to tie one on before dark. 200 Atlantic Ave., Boston, MA .
The Capital Grille
From five to seven in the evening the Capital Grille has a pleasant mixture of regulars, tourists, and the lonely, all served with skill and charm by Richie, Nate, and Vinnie. There is something quaint about drinking in the midst of well-polished brass. 359 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Metro
It keeps giving itself face-lifts—rejuvenating itself. It's the Duchess of Windsor of the local bar scene. 15 Lansdowne St., Boston, MA .
Ocean Club
Pleasant atmosphere, nice people, good vibes. Charles Square, Cambridge, MA .
Brandywine
Even the Yuppies stay away. Sheraton Commander Hotel, 16 Garden St., Cambridge, MA .
Rathskeller
It's so noisy that nobody is going to overhear what you say, and nobody cares. 528 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA .
Chucklehead
The band counts one Berklee and five Wesleyan grads among its members, but don't be deceived by such lofty credentials—these guys are out to have some serious fun.
The White Heat Orchestra
Swinging at the Roxy. It's the perfect music for your dirty dancing.
Plough and Stars
It's funky, so some days you win. 912 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA .