Upscale casual with macarons and opera cakes. Yes, opera cakes
Eats
HOLIDAY DRINKS: TIKI CHRISTMAS, BOOZY HANUKKAH
Read on to ensure that visions of Kris Kringle Coladas and Manischewitz cobblers dance in your head.
HOLIDAY EATS: ESSENTIAL PIT STOPS AND HIDEAWAYS FOR GREATER BOSTON SHOPPERS
Boston has some vibrant, interesting, and charming neighborhoods where people can do their holiday shopping in a much more enjoyable manner, and there are typically plenty of cozy little local spots to duck in out of the cold to grab a bite to eat or drink.
‘I SAW THOSE ON TV’: METAL CANS, SANTO BLANCO SHOTS, GOOP, AND AL PASTOR TACOS WITH CHIEF PARTY ROCKER GUY FIERI
“I’m a big nacho guy,” Fieri told me. “Who isn’t, right?”
FIRST LOOK: HORSE THIEVES TAVERN, DEDHAM
While some places simply say that their takes are inventive or modern and then offer what everyone else is offering, this spot really does have some interesting takes on New England classics.
HIGH BITES: THE LOW-DOSED, MULTI-COURSE MAGIC OF DOPE DINNERS
"It’s much harder than you think, and it’s important to know the science behind infusions so you don’t create a negative experience for your guests."
PLYMOUTH ROCKS: HIKING, EATS, AND MUCH MORE ON THE SOUTH SHORE
This will take you to the town wharf and with it, a whole lot of good stuff, including a breakwater that goes more than half a mile out into the ocean, various walkways and boardwalks with more views, several restaurants and food spots like the Lobster Hut and Cupcake Charlie’s.
BOSTON BETTER BEER BUREAU: WINTER HILL BREWING
Winter Hill’s home base doubles as a neighborhood bar, one where somebody might actually know your name. With the frigid months approaching, this is a place you’ll want to have on your cozy and comfortable list.
FIRST LOOK: AVENUE KITCHEN + BAR, SOMERVILLE
Its menu includes mostly new American fare and modern takes on old-fashioned items, including black garlic hummus, maple chili duck wings, roasted beets, beer-steamed mussels, a Cobb salad, burgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, steak frites, and, well, you get the picture.
KRISTIN’S, BRAINTREE: A BREAKFAST SPOT FOR PEOPLE WITH A (VERY) SWEET TOOTH
The slightly quieter Braintree Square a short distance to the north is where you’ll find Kristin’s, and it often has much longer lines than the other places in town.