Brattle Theatre
Fundraising is still under way to save this beloved Harvard Square institution from the pernicious encroachments of Netflix and TiVo, and the outcome remains uncertain. All the more reason to buy tickets for the Brattle's screenings of foreign gems, art-house premieres, tributes to Golden Age Hollywood, and annual Bugs Bunny Film Festival. Skip the DVD for once, and watch Casablanca the way it was meant to be seen: on the big (independent) screen. 40 Brattle St., Cambridge, MA 2138, brattlefilm.org.
Avalon Ballroom
In Boston, the "mists of Avalon" refer not to the foggy shores hiding King Arthur's final resting place, but the dry ice curling around the feet of the club's performers. Whether your taste is for Aimee Mann or Franz Ferdinand, the light show and acoustics in this cavernous ballroom are fantastic—as is its size, which is midway between nosebleed big and sell-out small. 15 Lansdowne St., Boston, MA .
Regattabar
Some may complain that it's a bit pricey, but it still delivers the highest-caliber jazz acts in town. From Sonny Rollins to Herbie Hancock, Don Byron to Tito Puente, you know that Raggattastars have earned their way to the top. Sure, the atmosphere's more still upper lipstick than whiskey-soaked back-alley, but sit close to the stage and close your eyes. The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Cambridge, MA .
Henry Bear's Park
Have a birthday party in 30 minutes and need a present, stat? We’ve been there — and so have the folks behind this expertly curated toy shop, which stocks something for every child: DIY jewelry kits for the crafty types, Magna-Tiles for the future architects, and costumes for the performers. The only challenge will be getting your own kiddo to leave. 17 White Street, Cambridge, MA 02140, henrybear.com.
Eye & Eye Optics
It’s not just your vision that’ll be sharp after shopping for specs here. The gem of a store carries a wide variety of frames — including brands like Versace and Tom Ford — to suit whatever look you’re going for, and at almost any price point, from $60 to $1,000. The father-and-son team behind the counter, meanwhile, are so easy to work with, you might just be happy you need glasses. 2271 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester, MA 02124, eyeandeyeoptics.com.
Stacey Frasca, Studio 28
What do Lorraine Bracco, Bryan Cranston, and Boston’s own Gretta Monahan have in common? They’ve all taken a spin in Stacey Frasca’s chair. With three decades of experience, the makeup artist’s glam yet natural style has attracted countless VIP clients and locals alike, who stop by Studio 28 for special-occasion makeup, spray tans, and one-on-one lessons. And with virtual services, you can up your cosmetic game without ever leaving home. 568 Washington St., Wellesley, MA 02482, studio28wellesley.com.
Lenox Sophia
Southie didn’t need another pub. It needed, and received in Lenox Sophia, a fine foodie destination for popping in on the way home from work — having reserved one of the four chef’s-counter seats, ideally — and decompressing over a set prix fixe: steaky king trumpet mushrooms with honey-fermented garlic, miso, and tart dried plum might be on the menu from ones-to-watch chefs Shi Mei and Yesid Areiza. The wine? That’s whatever you bring: It’s BYOB. 87 A St., Boston, MA 02127, lenoxsophia.com.
Mirbeau Inn & Spa
Hotels should be more than just a place to rest your head. That was the mindset, at least, of Mirbeau founders Linda and Gary Dower, who opened this luxury retreat by the water in Plymouth nearly a decade ago. Whether you’re looking for a weekend away or a weeklong vacation from reality, you’ll find plenty to do here. Relaxing with a candlelight yoga class? Check. Unwinding in a mineral bath? Sign us up. Sipping on a glass of the new hotel-branded vino at the wine bar? Every single night. 35 Landmark Dr., Plymouth, MA 02360, plymouth.mirbeau.com.
Community Bike Shop
Whether you’re looking for a commuter bike or a rugged ride for your next off-road adventure, this family-owned neighborhood favorite has the goods (including top-notch Specialized and Fuji bikes and a unique assortment of used bikes). And with a full-service workshop that excels at tune-ups, overhauls, and brake services — not to mention a remarkable range of accessories — you’ll never have to pedal elsewhere. 496 Tremont St., Boston, MA 02116, communitybicycle.com.
System 7
For those of us who find navigating the myriad of home-technology systems overwhelming and stressful, System 7’s Experience Center is a godsend. The pros at the company’s two locations in Boston and Wellesley are as tech-savvy as they are patient. They’ll enlighten you on intuitive access controls, motorized shading systems, lighting, and about integrating it all together through wireless networking. And when you’re ready, they’ll create a plan tailored to your home’s specific needs. Boston Design Center, Ste. 130W, Boston, MA 02210, systemseven.com.
Chuck Bass, Patrice Vinci Salon
Why do we love Chuck Bass? Let us count the reasons. For one, he comes in as early as 6 a.m. to accommodate busy schedules. Two, he works quickly and quietly. Most important, his talent for creating gorgeous textural haircuts — including on curly hair — is unmatched, having honed his craft throughout Boston and New York City. Whether you’re looking for a big makeover or a subtle upgrade to your signature style, you’ll always leave his chair happy. 91 Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, chuckbass.com.
The Newbury Boston
The picture-perfect Public Garden views alone are enough to justify a staycation at this iconic address, which reopened as the Newbury in 2021. But add in the buzzy on-site restaurant, in-room afternoon tea service, and a “fireplace butler” to build a cozy wood-burning fire in your suite after a day of shopping, and you have the makings of a truly luxe getaway in the place where everyone wants to be. One Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, thenewburyboston.com.
Magic Beans
Now that a certain big-box retailer has closed its doors (sob!), having a top-notch local option for baby gear is more important than ever. Thankfully, this tot-prep goldmine is still offering essential services such as in-person consultations and a help line staffed with equipment experts who actually answer. The best part? When you’ve finally made your choices, registering for that UppaBaby stroller or leopard-print BabyBjörn carrier can be done with the click of the mouse online. 200 Linden St., Wellesley, MA 02482, mbeans.com.
Lego Discovery Center
The best way to keep the words “I’m bored” at bay on gloomy days? Buying a day pass to Assembly Row’s freshly renovated Lego wonderland. Kids can get moving in the Hero Zone, which features a laser maze and climbing wall; rescue a princess on the Kingdom Quest ride; and build, build, build to their heart’s content — without scattering tiny pieces all over your living room floor. 598 Assembly Row, Somerville, MA 02145, legodiscoverycenter.com/boston.
The Dubliner
Irish cuisine in America has long been stuck in a pub-food rut, despite Ireland’s steady evolution into a destination for European fare. Chef Aidan McGee, formerly of Michelin-starred restaurants in the U.K., is nudging Boston in that fresher direction at this bustling hot spot opposite Government Center, which plates exemplary versions of classic dishes, including the finest fish and chips in town and a spectacular take on the traditional Irish Sunday roast while pouring a proper pint of Guinness and a global slate of whiskeys. 2 Center Plz., Downtown, MA 02108, thedublinerboston.com.