More Than Words - Waltham

More Than Words
376 Moody St.
Waltham, MA 02453
(781) 788-0035
www.mtwyouth.org

Used bookstores rock. Even better are the inexpensive used bookstores. Let's go so far as to one-up that with a used bookstore that has coffee (which you can sip while perusing books) and wireless internet. All that is wonderful. Now, using an imaginary, figurative, yet highly effective calculator, calculate the sum of everything listed PLUS the fact that the employees are teens with backgrounds such as "the foster care system, court involved, homeless, or have dropped out of school" working here for the purposes of receiving employment and entrepreneurship training. This is a winning equation.

The coffee is Starbucks (which has donated equipment and training), the books are great, there are CDs and DVDs, and there are open-mic nights and other community activities on a regular basis.

When I go here, I find myself buying more than I usually would, just to support the great cause. I suggest you do the same.

Why it's a gem:

Seriously? It's a great cause, inexpensive books, CDs, and DVDs. And there's coffee involved.

Tips:

Go there. Now.

Lake Quannapowitt - Wakefield

Lake Quannapowitt
Lowell St & Main St
Wakefield, MA 01880
www.visitingnewengland.com/wakefield

Boston is pretty.

There are plenty of very pretty spots in and around Boston for picnicing, running, frolicking, and whatnot. For example, the Charles River, one of the most gorgeous rivers I've seen, has some the best spots for engaging in the above activities. But if you feel like venturing away from the lovely Charles, I suggest a visit to Wakefield, a cute little town which houses an obscenely spectacular lake.

I stumbled upon this town one weekend afternoon and thought it was great: little shops, a pretty fountain, and an annual book sale that rocked my world. And then I saw the lake. It didn't even make sense. Gorgeous. And plenty of room for picnics and stretching out in a wonderful atmosphere -- just far enough away from the city to feel as though you've "gotten away."

Why it's a gem:

Gorgeous-ness in the middle of nowhere
An excellent not-getaway

Tips:

Swimming is supposedly unsuggested

Sunset Grill and Tap - Allston

Sunset Grill and Tap
130 Brighton Avenue
Allston, MA 02134
(617) 254-1331
www.allstonsfinest.com

So this one is obvious. I wouldn't call this a hidden gem by any means, but it sure is a gem nonetheless. Sunset boasts the largest selection of beer on the east coast, with 112 taps (changing frequently) and "380 microbrews and exotic imports." Yay!

This place is great for big groups, has a large and somewhat inexpensive menu, and has staff who know their beer.

There really isn't much else to say. If you like beer, then please keep two things in mind: 1) You and I can be friends. 2) Go to the Sunset.

Why it's a gem:

With that many beers on tap, how can it not be a gem?
Large space
Knowledgable staff

Tips:

They supposedly have a club you can join. I like clubs.
Above it is Big City, a bar/pool hall they own. Good beer and pool.

Giacomo's - South End

Giacomo's Ristorante
431 Columbus Ave
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 536-5723 (use this number to make a reservation, which you should do -- or else)
www.giacomosblog-boston.blogspot.com

I'm not sure what can be more gem-tastic than delicious, affordable, seafood-based Italian food, in a cozy atmosphere with an open kitchen. Ahhhhhhh.

The North End location is much more known than this one; however, I have avoided it due to the wrap-around-the-block lines and the reputation for having very tight seating and rushing customers out. I'll take this version any day: a neighborhood restaurant that remembers the regulars, takes reservations, and serves out consistently delicious and unique food.

I must reiterate the last point -- it is seldom one finds a restaurant that always serves good food. There are times that are better than others, but I know I can come here and always get a good meal. And for a city that raves about its seafood, I haven't found many "gems" in the typical Legal-McCormick offerings. The seafood here is fantastic, and the dishes are unique. Take, for example, lemon fettuccine with grilled shrimp and scallops, squid ink pappardelle with swordfish and tuna, and a variety of mix and match pastas with choice of seafood and sauce.

And to add to this, the fish and meat entrees are wonderful -- cooked and seasoned perfectly. The tuna is sushi grade and can be served raw on the inside with a red wine truffle sauce. For $19, this is a steal. I'm sure the restaurant is filled to the brim with maniacal laughter when no patrons are present, basking in the glory of serving wonderful things for low prices and getting away with it.

Calamari: perfect. Tiramisu: best I've had in Boston.

Two important things: 1) This place can get noisy, especially on weekend nights, so if the noise bothers you, give it a miss. 2) Boys, the waiters may wink at you. Just remember you're in the South End. Get used to it.

Why it's a gem:

Affordable, great atmosphere, fresh seafood
Decent bottles of wine for under $20.
Remembers the regulars
Consistently good food

Tips:

Great for a date on a week night when it's not as noisy
The Giacomo's sauce (lobster-based red with a pinch of bechamel) can be combined with the fra diavolo (too spicy on its own). Order the Fracomo's sauce. Awesome and not on the menu.
Calamari is the best app (order well done), and the tiramisu is the best dessert (you'll thank me)
Great coffee

Taco Loco - Somerville

Taco Loco - Somerville
44 Broadway
Somerville, MA 02145-3331
(617) 625-3830

Sometimes, I'm in the mood for a quick, tasty snack. Actually, that sounds like a good idea most of the time. In fact, I'm going to get one. Be right back.

Okay, so since that's done -- Taco Loco serves a fantastic taco, and food in general, for ridiculously little money. Upon walking in, I was greeted by an American television showed dubbed over in Spanish and a long counter where all food is visible. And I liked that. The food, and especially the chicken, looked wonderful and fresh. Behind the counter is a clear view of the pupusas and tortillas being made. Different. And fantastic.

I ordered 1, carnitas taco, and it was $2. This price appears to be the standard single taco price around Boston. Great. What I didn't expect was a freshly made tortilla packed with meat, salsa, cilantro, guacamole, and cheese, with a radish and lime garnish. I'll take it. And 14 to go.

The chicken looked so good behind the counter that I came back for a piece and added guacamole to the order. I believe it cost barely more than the taco. If you're reading this and familiar with this venue, you're probably wondering why I haven't mentioned the burritos. People seem to love these burritos, large and supposedly delicious. I did not try one. YET. But I do believe that if the other, standard fare, is fantastic, then those burritos will be too.

Why it's a gem:

Excellent, fresh Mexican food for little money
Take-out central

Tips:

Although it's great for take-out, they have a downstairs, cellar-like area that is insanely charming, with little TVs playing the same, dubbed over shows. I ate there. And liked it.

Bazaar - Allston

Bazaar on Cambridge
424 Cambridge St
Allston, MA 02134
(617) 787-1511
www.bazaarboston.com

I'm really not sure why a lot of the great grocery stores around this city fall under the radar. Despite the fact that I can read very few of the labels or ingredients on the, oftentimes, Russian products, Bazaar is a true gem.

Gazing at the surprisingly large assortment of smoked meats, smoked fish, caviar, and frozen meats, most of which I didn't even realize were even available, I feel as though I'm in a different world -- one with amazing and unusual foods. It has taken me countless visits to begin to take in the things are here. I recommend you do the same. It's worth it.

Where to begin? Really not sure. Okay, so the raw meats are decent and inexpensive (veal chops, chicken thighs and breasts, chopped beef, and random other things). According to the website, there are about 80 types of smoked fish. I've seen several types of caviar there ranging from about $8 to, well, what you'd imagine the price of good caviar to be. I've never seen so many smoked meats, including smoked chicken (which is an excellent addition to dishes such as paella and casoulet). The frozen section is unbelievable, with so many pierogis with different fillings that I probably couldn't carry one of each without a backpack. There are also frozen shrimp, calamari rings, whole fish, quail, duck, and much, much more.

Produce is plentiful, as well as dried nuts and fruits. There are European chocolates galore. Farmer's cheese, which is not too easy to find and MUCH healthier than cream cheese and nearly every other spreadable product, comes in several varieties.

Just as I know I miss something wonderful every time I'm there, I'm sure I'm forgetting to write about certain things now. Many apologies. I guess you just have to go there.

Why it's a gem:

Smoked meats and fish that are difficult to find elsewhere
Unusual beer and wine for good prices
Inexpensive

Tips:

Check out the wine and beer, and don't be afraid to experiment.
Monini is a popular company for flavored olive oils. This is one of the only places I've seen their Porcini oil. And all the oils, I believe, are $7.99, including the white truffle -- cheapest I've seen.

Russo's - Watertown

A Russo & Sons, Inc.
560 Pleasant Street
Watertown, MA 02472-2408
(617) 923-1500
www.russos.com

Have you ever read a recipe and come across ingredients you a) had never heard of, and b) had no clue where to get them? To solve the first predicament, look the ingredient up on the internet. To solve the second, go to Russo's. Not only do they have the most ridiculously diverse assortment of fresh (and often local) produce, but it frequently costs a fraction of the price compared to major grocery stores.

There are huge packages of fresh herbs, many herbs, vegetables, roots, and more used by other cultures, and nearly everything is available individually, as opposed to forcing you to buy way too much of something you'll never finish. The bakery is sinful, including both breads and sweets, and the cheese selection is absolutely incredible. Their pasta is made fresh each day and costs less than pre-packaged imported pasta from the supermarket. These markets are no longer "super" to me.

And this is all inside. The outside boasts an amazing selection of plants and flowers. During the fall, this is your pumpkin resource.

Every time I mention Russo's to anyone, I always hear the reply, "I love that place!" And how couldn't you? Many, many products are from New England and everything else is as fresh as it can be. Kinda strange, but this place gives me a reason to call "gourmet" inexpensive. And please ignore me if you see me frolicking in the flowers.

Why it's a gem:

Fresh, often local produce
Great cheese selection
CHEAP, compared to major grocery stores
Pretty, very pretty

Tips:

A great place for fresh pasta. In the section with ingredients for many Asian foods, there is freshly made lo mein for $1 per pound; each bag is about a pound. So yeah.
The website tells you the best foods for the month.

Scup's in the Harbour - East Boston

Scup's in the Harbour
256 Marginal Street
East Boston, MA 02128
(617) 569-7287
www.scupsintheharbour.com

I love to find great spots for breakfast. Even more, I like hidden breakfast spots. I will happily pronounce Scup's to be the most hidden breakfast spot I have yet to find. I'm sure the challenges await.


Scup's is located in a Boston shipyard, away from any other food establishments. In fact, one can see boats, strange sculptures (a seawoman, a cleaver, a giant fish), airplanes, and peculiar yield signs, including someone with a fork in his/her back. Although this blog is not limited to those gems which are hidden, this eatery defines "hidden gem." And if there was such a term as "random gem," it would claim that too.

Aside from the sheer hidden-ness of it all, the food is fantastic. The breakfast menu is somewhat small, but it changes often. The brioche French toast is spectacular, with interesting, fresh toppings, such as orangy rum bananas and blueberries with brown sugar whipped cream. And the owner called me a "man" for eating it. Imagine me grunting now.

The menu further includes breakfast sandwiches, including one with potato chips and "trust us" in parentheses (and you should trust them), baked eggs with your choice of fillings, and the millionaire's bacon with brown sugar and spices. The funny thing is that Scup's seems to accolades in local publications for BLTs and frankfurters, neither of which I've tried. But I imagine they are as delicious as breakfast. Ah, and another thing: the beer list is small, but good and local. Ooh, ooh, and they have a mimosa with lemonade instead of OJ.

Scup's was named after the owners' dog, who was found close by. When attending Scup's, you will find many wonderful things, including an owner chatting it up with everyone, long tables to encourage community and mingling, things hanging from the pipes, a picture frame with no picture, a fake spider, and a warm fireplace. Oh yeah, and a gem, the likes of which you have yet to find.

Why it's a gem:

Um, it's in the middle of nowhere. In a city.
Fantastic, creative food -- all of it.
Community oriented
Quirky

Tips:

It's located next to Piers Park, which has what I believe to be the best view of the city.
Talk to people -- you're supposed to.
Subscribe to the newsletter -- it's written from the point of view of Scup.

S&L Cold Cut Center - Chelsea

S&L Cold Cut Center
462 Eastern Ave
Chelsea, MA 02150
(617) 884-9381

There are plenty of good sub shops around. No doubt. But these are crazy.

S&L is located on a little corner, has a little entrance, and looks as though it's a little dive from the outside. And it is. But the subs are most definitely not little. These things have great fillings and are HUGE. Plan for two meals, such as two lunches, a midnight snack and breakfast, dessert and the next night's dinner, etc.

I've heard the red sauce is great, and I know the fish and tartar are. The people are friendly and the rush during lunch is just that -- a rush. If you're that side of the city, get a sub. But if you plan to finish it one sitting, don't eat for a day. Or three.

Why it's a gem:

Your typical, mom-and-pop-esque, hole-in-wall, hidden gem sub shop that feeds you several meals in one.

Tips:

For your body's sake, if you're full after the first half, stop. Or be all rock star and go for it.
Subs only come in ONE size.
They have wraps, but they only come in regular size.

Deep Ellum - Allston

Deep Ellum
477 Cambridge Street
Allston, MA 02135
(617) 787-2337
www.deepellum-boston.com

By the time I finally stepped foot inside Deep Ellum, I had already lived within walking distance for 6 months. So when I looked at the cocktail and beer list, I felt ashamed. But don't fret, I have already struck a deal with Doc Brown and will be remedying the situation as quickly as possible.

Deep Ellum is a comfortable bar/restaurant focusing on old fashioned cocktails and good beers. They have a list of "Manhattans 10 Ways" which include a variety of Manhattans, customed to the generation for which they were named. The draft beer list is impressive, and they have plenty of extra special stuff by the bottle. By the way, the wine list is surprisingly good and affordable for specializing in cocktails and beer.

The food -- I will admit that I have not had dinner here, but if it's as good as the brunch and lunch, I'm sold. It's possible I haven't had dinner because it doesn't rhyme with brunch or lunch. The brunch is fantastic, especially the pulled pork with a poached egg. I'm a bit picky when it comes to burgers -- I don't find too many that are juicy enough. But this place is essential for a burger and a beer.

Definitely check it out. It's located in a completely unconventional part of a neighborhood for a gastropub. That makes it even cooler.

Why it's a gem:

AMAZING cocktails -- one of the best lists I've seen in these parts.
Outdoor patio for soaking up the sun. Or the wind. Or the rain.
Beer. Beer. Beer.

Tips:

If you're a nerd like me, you'll be happy to know they give you the key to their wireless network.

Sazerac, defined

So I'm sort of obsessed with this drink, as you'll very quickly notice.

When I went to New Orleans, I was introduced to this drink soon after my arrival, since whiskey often comes up in conversations with me. I was told this drink is very traditional to New Orleans. I have no problem with that. Its contents most often include rye whiskey (preferably Sazerac rye), Peyshaud's bitters, sugar, and Herbsaint (no worries, I had no idea what it was either - but I believe it is one of many anise-flavored liquors).

According to my very brief research, it has been debated to be the first cocktail created in America; therefore, I feel incredibly patriotic every time I drink it. So if I have several in a row, I will indefinitely be singing The Star Bangled Banner at the top of my lungs.

Since visiting NOLA, I have engaged in an ongoing search to find Sazerac in Boston. You will see this mentioned in my blog. Mostly because it is delicious. Yummmmm.

Russell House Tavern - Cambridge

Russell House Tavern
14 JFK Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
www.russellhouse.wordpress.com

I feel a little guilty proclaiming a bar/restaurant, let alone a brand spankin’ new one, a “gem,” based mostly on one drink, but the fact that I asked the bartender, “Do you make Sazerac?” and she responded, “Sazerac the cocktail? Yeah,” in a manner indicating there is no reason on this earth she shouldn’t be able to, makes this place worthwhile. And her name is Ginny. Her name alone rocks. I have a new home.

In its short time in Harvard Square, Russell House Tavern has sparked quite the positive jibberjab from the locals, always seems pretty occupied, and has hosted events such as wine tastings, hosted by an educator. Pretty good for a spot once occupied by Finagle-A-Bagle.

Aside from the Brilliant cocktail-making, this place boasts a capital-I, Impressive assortment of New England beers, including Berkshire Brewing Company. And looking along the liquor shelves, I find it fascinating to see Hudson Whiskey, straight out of New York State, as well as an overall remarkable collection of whiskeys, overall. And get ready for this: they have wine on tap! And it’s local!

I have not yet tried the food here. But it sounds good. They have oysters sold individually and a “Harvard Square Happy Meal,” with a burger, a beer, and a shot. Oh. Happy. Day.

There is much more to write about the Russell House Tavern, most certainly. But for now, I’ll be content with the bar and the fact that the atmosphere is so cozy that next time I’m bringing my slippers.

Why it’s a gem:

Local liquor, not just beer. Pretty darn cool.

Cozy

Knowledgeable bartenders – well, at least one for sure

Tips:

If there’s a cocktail you’re looking for, just ask if they make it. If they could make mine, I’m sure they can make yours. If not, get something else – I’m sure it’s delicious.

You can absolutely sit outdoors. Nice.

Blue Ribbon BBQ - West Newton

1375 Washington Street
West Newton, MA
(617) 332-2583
www.blueribbonbbq.com

There seems to be a pattern: I hear about a great BBQ joint around Boston, I go, I get disappointed, I hear about another, I go, I get disappointed. Repeat. I have to say, however, that Blue Ribbon is the one place without complaint from anyone I've met. Only recently, I decided to give in to the hype and go, expecting disappointment. I took a deep breath, walked into the small, narrow venue in West Newton, smelled the aroma while gaping at the menu, and fell over. After the smelling salts brought me to consciousness, I ordered.

Charm appears to ooze from the ceilings and walls of Blue Ribbon, as even the man behind the counter easily rattled off his favorites from the menu and explained the sauce bar with mini, take-out sauce containers.

Speaking of the sauce bar, I came home with five delicious sauces to display across my living room table. There are definitely some hot ones. Of the five, I liked the chipotle mustard, but the best sauce was the one that came with the meal.

Here's the deal: to me, good BBQ is tasty and tender. That's all. Blue Ribbon does it. The dry rub on the ribs was perfect, with the meat smokey and soft. The "burnt ends," soft, small pieces of brisket drowned in sauce, were tasty and tender as well. With good dry rubs and delicious sauces, I pronounce a winner.

Why it's a gem:

Best BBQ I've had this side of the Mason-Dixon line -- so far.
Friendly service
Great atmosphere (including the aroma)

Tips:

Although I have yet to try them, I've heard the sandwiches are great.
I would have no problem eating here, especially with only one or two others, but it's perfect takeout.

Brick House - Brighton

Brick House Pizza & Grille
256 Washington Street
Brighton, MA‎
(617) 789-5559


Shrimp. Scampi. Pizza. Okay, say it all together now: Shrimp Scampi Pizza. I realize this concoction exists in other pizza joints, but I must say, the stuff here rocks. The shrimp aren't too small, the tomato sauce is excellent, and the capers are a must. When I had this delivered one time (of many), the man delivering that night said to me, "Do you know this is the most expensive pizza on the menu?" To that I replied, "Do you know how good it is?" He responded, "Yes, I made it." Best conversation ever.

The pizza at this local, Brighton venue is not middle-of-the-night-dollar-a-slice-pizza, and you get what you pay for. The ingredients are fresh, original, and delicious. For example, ordering a pizza with Gorgonzola is a big plus.

I grew in northern Jersey, just outside of NYC. Pizza there is a staple. Once outside of that area, every pizza joint appears to imitate that style or another, such as Chicago's. Brick House doesn't really try. They do their own thing. And it's great.

Why it's a gem:

Shrimp Scampi Pizza (each word totally deserves to be capitalized)
Delivery
Amazing, fresh ingredients
Thick crust

Tips:

Check out some of their coupons, they're pretty good deals.

‎. Brighton, MA - 617-789-5559

Sorella's - Jamaica Plain

Sorella's
388 Centre St.
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
(617) 524-2016

I think of this as a Boston breakfast staple. And there are so many good reasons why it is. I shall begin with the following: fresh vegetables and other ingredients, creativity, friendly service, and a menu so large I might be better picking up a copy, taking it home, having my friends quiz me on the contents, and coming back to order.

This is your typical, neighborhood place. So much so, that one time when I was there, the mayor of Boston came in and said hi to patrons.

A quick sampling: raspberry butterscotch pancakes, gingerbread french toast, and omelettes with such contents as whole asparagus spears, avocado, smoked gouda cheese, and sprouts. Ummm, what? Very cool. And for what you're getting, the prices are so reasonable that it seems as though you walked in the place donning pantyhose on your head, with a weapon in hand, and said, "Give me your omelettes or else!"

Why it's a gem:

Creative, large, and fresh breakfast menu with so many options you need a break while deciding
Friendly service

Tips:

Become a local, and bring new people there. They really appreciate it, and you can tell.
Get there before 10:30 -- it's kinda strange that breakfast spots are pretty empty until then.