Superb Bicycle
Whether you’re a car-dodging commuter or a weekend warrior who heads to the hills, the pedal pushers behind this shop will size you up, find a frame that fits, and build your dream two-wheeler. 842 Beacon St., Boston, MA 02215, superbbicycle.com.
Jean Therapy
Always looking for the Next Big Jean, owner Leah Eckelberger offered hot brands like Oligo Tissew, Those Are Mine, Farmer, and Drifter (as well as frank opinions on your derriere) before anyone else. 524 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, MA 2215, jean-therapy.com.
Salon Eva Michelle
Want a style that stops traffic? Book an appointment with Eva Mustafai. She handles her scissors with race-car-driver precision, and will find a cut that flatters your face and has lift and movement. 118 Newbury St., Boston, MA 2116, salonevamichelle.com.
Rialto at the Charles Hotel
Chef Jody Adams continues her exuberant exploration of the foods of France, Italy, and southern Spain. Who needs the hassles of monetary conversion and translators when you can take a culinary armchair tour on the banks of the Charles? Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA .
Legal Sea Foods retail outlets
Day in and day out, all year round, the most dependable source for high-quality fresh flappers and crustaceans. And the frozen fish stock is excellent for making your own soups at home.
Ritz Bar
This is a perennial, and while you might be able to get more booze for your money elsewhere, you'll not get the ambience, service, and joie de vivre that accompany every martini here. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 15 Arlington St., Boston, MA .
Ryles
Lean prime ground sirloin stuffed with your choice of cheddar, Swiss, American, Boursin, or blue cheese and tomato, pepper, onion, mushroom, bacon, or spinach. Served on an onion roll with a salad, it goes for $3.50. Inman Square, Cambridge, MA .
Paddle Boston
Looking to canoe, kayak, or paddleboard your way through the city? Let these experts hook you up with the gear — and the guidance — you need to get out on the Charles or the harbor. Multiple locations, paddleboston.com.
Martin's Coffee Shop
This cozy diner offers a hearty breakfast with your cup of joe. 35 Harvard St., Brookline, MA 2445, martinscoffeeshop.com.
Thai Cuisine
The hot food here'll bring tears to your eyes. 14A Westland Ave., Boston, MA .
Dover Sea Grille
Great food in one of the very few Boston fish houses that take reservations. 1223 Beacon St., Brookline, MA .
Coolidge Corner Theater
Very intelligent recycling of cults and classics in an attractive movie house. 290 Harvard St., Brookline, MA .
The Book Case
Bring in your used books and get cash or credit on their fine, wide selection. 42 Church St., Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA .
Foodie's Urban Market
One-stop shopping (truffle oil, seaweed) for your dinner party. 1421 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02118-2009, foodies-urban-market.com.
Jay Jakubowski, Villge Veterinary Clinic
A no-nonsense, full-service vet who makes house calls. 223 Boylston Street, Brookline, MA .