Best of Boston

2012 Best Brasserie

Eastern Standard

Why do we love this place? Well, there’s the exquisitely complex cocktails, the inventive late-night fare (rock shrimp beignets, anyone?), and a stunning grilled cheese sandwich. That it’s all executed with hotel-dining-room efficiency in an opulent French bistro setting makes it a destination for food aficionados, upscale Sox fans, and visiting parents of BU coeds.

528 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-532-9100, easternstandardboston.com