Best of Boston

Some might suggest that brunch is a wee bit early for Pearl’s molten chocolate cake. Especially when there are equally delectable and (slightly) less gluttonous alternatives, such as mascarpone-stuffed French toast or smoked salmon Benedict. But from your first forkful of the fluffy outer layer and smooth liquid-cocoa center, you’ll know you made the right decision. The dessert takes 18 minutes to prepare, so order as soon as you’ve been seated, then let your anticipation build while people-watching on the new patio.