Chauncey
We were one more Creed song away from slitting our wrists when Chauncey's self-titled debut—loaded with swerving melodies, bending rhythms, and emotional truths—revived our faith in rock 'n' roll. Not to mention in the Boston music scene.
The Regattabar
The only place in town to catch big-name out-of-town acts like Sonny Rollins, Cassandra Wilson, and Tito Puente. A front-row table here for Betty Carter or Christian McBride is one of the most intimate world-class jazz experiences around. Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Cambridge, MA .
Governor Weld
Best: Senate president William Bulger. Says he's "intrigued" by the job of UMass president. Even Better: Boston University president John Silber. Said he was "intrigued" by the job of Boston school superintendent. Absolute Best: Governor Weld. Believed to be "intrigued" by just about any job other than the one he was reelected to.
The Lemonheads
They can churn out music that sounds intensely tortured one minute, gently sentimental the next. Maybe it's just us, but is Evan Dando (the group's lead singer and guitarist) brilliant, or what? Who else could write a song about his stove?
Nantasket Beach
A beach day is always family-friendly, but add in an old-fashioned carousel and Paragon Boardwalk’s toes-in-the-sand beer garden for the grownups, and you have the makings of one epic summer afternoon. If you’re feeling adventurous, sign the kids (and yourself) up for standup paddleboard lessons with Paddle Surf MA. Hull, MA 02045,
Kava Neo-Taverna
The abundance of blond wood and white paint in Kava’s dining room is like a promise: The food will be simple and it will be good. It’s one that the kitchen delivers on, too. The tender octopus is perfectly charred; the salads are fresh and bright; and the light, crisp wines will make you feel like you’ve retreated to a café along the Mediterranean. 315 Shawmut Ave., Boston, MA 02118, kavaneotaverna.com.
GreCo
Opened in the Back Bay in 2017, GreCo has since expanded to the Seaport and, very shortly, downtown. Given the super-fresh pitas; tender marinated lamb and pork sliced from vertical rotisseries; and fixings such as spicy whipped feta and crispy fries, we’d put one on every corner if we could. 225 Newbury St., Boston, MA grecoboston.com.
Barmakian Jewelers
Visitors to this vault-like jewel emporium in Downtown Crossing—one of the largest in New England—will find bands in white gold, yellow gold, and platinum that complement even the most singular engagement rocks. Barmakian can also design a match for, say, an heirloom diamond, so that the happy couple always ends up with the perfect set. 333 Washington St., Boston, MA barmakian.com.
Terry Johnson, Aujourd'hui
An excellent waiter is one you hardly notice as he deftly reads the mood of the table, answering questions, offering suggestions, and slipping silently into the background. But we certainly noticed Terry Johnson. He fits the description to a T, plus he's charming and refined. We'll take his table any day. Four Seasons Hotel Boston, 200 Boylston St., Boston, MA fourseasons.com/boston.
Mahoney's Rocky Ledge
We know there are locations throughout the region, but this one rules: peat moss, planters, pails, privet hedges, potting soil, pruning shears, peas (seeds), peonies, and porch furniture. For every gardening item you could possibly need, look no farther. 242 Cambridge St., Winchester, MA .
Diva Indian Bistro
The owners of Kashmir and Café of India have hit the jackpot with their newest entry into the Indian dining scene. The setting is modern and stylish, the service exceedingly attentive, and the menu diverse. One entrée provides a sampling of the scrumptious samosas, tikki, and vindaloos. Cap it off with the ultimate palate cooldown: an icy mango shake. 246 Elm St., Somerville, MA divabistro.com.
The Rosebud Diner
While the rest of Davis Square submits to a yuppified takeover (Coming Soon! Starbucks!), the Rosebud is one of the last holdouts of old-time Somerville. Okay, the bloody brawls are a thing of the past (that's a good thing). But the food is still hearty, the atmosphere classic, and the waitresses downright motherly. 381 Summer St., Davis Square, Somerville, MA .
Hollywood Espresso
Sultry movies and moody java. Is there a better combination on the planet? At this "European Film Cafe," you can watch a recent release on one of three TV screens while sipping a white mocha latte or cafe au lait and munching on a croissant or a slice or carrot cake. 1740 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, WA .
Salon Marc Harris
Have a spare $125 and need a new do? Marc Harris's adroitly angled razor cuts are the sharpest in town. An updated, more sophisticated look—one that actually accentuates your face's particular shap—is always money well spent. 30 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, salonmarcharris.com.
Pear Martini, No. 9 Park
The pear martini is a revelation. A symphonic combination of Grey Goose Vodka, Belle de Brillet Poire, and pear nectar garnished with a dried pear slice, it's dainty yet substantial, and works either with food or on its own. It's the type of cocktail that inspires cravings, and it's nearly impossible to drink just one. 9 Park Street, Boston, MA no9park.com.