Petsi Pies
Only the most flavorful morsels of perfectly ripe, sweet fruits make the cut for Renee McLeod's blueberry, mixed berry, and tart cherry crumb desserts. We're pie-eyed with love. 285 Beacon Street, Somerville, MA 2143, .
"Investigate" at the Museum of Science
Kids can't help acting like young Galileos when they're encouraged to conduct cool experiments with gizmos that simulate lie-detectors or to dig in the sand like archeologists for pre-Columbian garbage. Science Park, Boston, MA .
(Tie) Jose Conseco and Marion Butts
Jose couldn't run 90 feet without pulling a muscle, Marion couldn't run 90 yards on 20 carries given an armed escort and a jetpack. Lock for '96 and '97: Dominique Wilkins.
Laugh Boston
Overlook the corporate location at the Seaport’s Westin Boston Waterfront and instead enjoy the cleanliness and spaciousness (300 seats!), the roster (rising and acclaimed national acts), and a surprisingly delicious bar and cocktail menu, complete with a “Heckler” fishbowl to share. 425 Summer St., Boston, MA 02210, laughboston.com.
Cafe Sushi
This haven for transcendent sushi is nestled in a strip-mall-style building on Mass. Ave. We're most fond of the creatively dressed, impeccably fresh nigiri, ordered á la carte. 1105 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA cafesushicambridge.com.
Gift at the Gardner
Unveiled as part of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum's new wing in January, this shop's jewelry, housewares, books, and children's items are crafted by artists from all over the world. Plans are also in the works to sell prints of artworks. 280 Fenway, Boston, MA 2115, gardnermuseum.org.
Cottonwood Cafe
Ask bartender Kevin Shannon for an Ultimate Margarita ($6.95) with Cointreau. It's a tart, smooth, and potent libation with Patron Silver Tequila, fresh lemon and lime juice, and a splash of sugar, water, and Triple Sec. 222 Berkeley St., Boston, MA .
WXKS's Annual Birthday Party
Open bars, hors d'oeuvres, an exclusive guest list, and top national acts. For example, the 1983 list included the Gap Band, Laura Branigan, the Manhattans, the Weathergirls, and (yes) Pia Zadora.
Borromeo
One of the hottest classical acts in the country, the Borromeo Quintet is in residence at the New England Conservatory this year. Keep a close watch for local show times—these international performers are in high demand.
<em>Importance of Being Earnest</em>
The deliciously tart Importance of Being Earnest at Lowell's Merrimack Repertory Theatre; and the epic staging of Robert Penn Warren's All the King's Men at the Trinity Repertory Company, in Providence.
Mitt Romney
Mitt Romney's taking the Republican gubernatorial nomination away from acting Governor Jane Swift before the race even started.
Laurie Beechman
For her showstopping number, "Memory," in Cats, at the Shubert Theatre, and for her act at the Bradford Cabaret on late weekend evenings.
Newbury Tailoring Co.
Here, talented staffers act like whatever garment you bring them is the most beautiful they’ve ever seen—and yet somehow they manage to make it even more beautiful, whether they’re hemming jeans or mending a torn handbag. 324B Newbury St., Boston, MA newburytailors.com.
Paradise Rock Club
Stoner dads and undergrads alike loiter outside these vaunted doors, thanks to the ’Dise's reliably eclectic roster. The sense of égalité only continues once inside: Don't be surprised if you spot the opening act dancing in the crowd behind you. 967 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 02215, thedise.com.
American Provisions
With as many as 80 varieties of small-batch fromage available, this Southie shop is small on space but big on nutty, pungent flavor. Staffers are ready with recommendations and armed with anecdotes about the herd of Vermont goats that produced your selected wheel, making this a destination for turophiles citywide. 613 E. Broadway, South Boston, MA 02127, americanprovisions.com.