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Boston Area's Best Sandwiches: A Food Tour Guide Part I

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 16:16:39 GMT

By Adam Branco

Sandwiches don’t need much introduction. I love sandwiches, you love sandwiches. Let’s get into some of my favorites in the Boston area.

A North End Institution at Monica's

Monica’s : Located on Salem St in the North End, their Italian sub is one of the essentials for sandwich enthusiasts in the area. It's giant, they don't skimp out on portions, and it can easily be split among two people. I also love their Andy Boy and their Italian sausage special, and for non-meat eaters, the caprese is very popular. Fair warning, this place has gotten TikTok-ified in the past couple of years, so the lines can get egregious at peak hours.

The Freshest Store in Town at New Deal Fruit

New Deal Fruit : In a bit of no man's land transit-wise, this Revere institution is a legitimate pilgrimage spot for sandwich lovers in the Boston area. Their special Italian is truly spectacular. If someone told me they think it’s better than Monica’s, I wouldn’t argue with them. They have an enormous menu of sandwiches, just go and eat there.

A Guy Fieri-Worthy Spot at Cutty's

Cutty’s : As seen on Triple D , you’ll see this remarkably popular Brookline shop on any Boston sandwich list, and for good reason. My favorite is the Rabe T.J., which has broccoli rabe, mozzarella, sharp provolone, and tomato jam on a sesame seed roll.

Photo courtesy of Cutty's

Somerville's Best Sandwiches at Dave's Fresh Pasta

Dave’s Fresh Pasta : One of my very favorite shops and the one I probably go to the most on this list, this Davis Square spot is a staple among Somerville locals. I’ve been partial to their Steak & Blue lately, but they have over 40 sandwiches and wraps to choose from, and you can also customize your own if nothing on the menu entices you. Dave’s also sells homemade pasta (hence the name), a bunch of terrific wine, and specialty groceries. I’ve also done multiple free wine tastings. Coming here will not be a one-time occasion.

A Highlight of Boston's Vietnamese Scene at Ba Le

Ba Le : One of the best sandwich shops in Boston? Yes. The best bang for your buck meal? Possibly. This Vietnamese shop in Dorchester does brilliant banh mi sandwiches for maybe $8, and they now have a second location by the Malden Center stop. Each one is served with homemade mayo, fish sauce, scallion oil, cucumber, pickled daikon and carrots, cilantro, and optional hots, making them fragrant and balanced without leaving you feeling terrible afterward. I love their spicy beef, but you can't go wrong with whatever they serve. Don’t worry about the line, either. They move very quickly.

Filipino Offerings at Johnny Boy

Johnny Boy : The newest addition to this list, this Union Square gem that's now back to being a pop-up and looking for a permanent home is the only Filipino sandwich spot in the area and is quickly becoming one of the best around. Their fried chicken sandwich is served with a Maple sweet potato bun, double-dredged fried chicken thighs, pickled papaya, and sweet & vinegar adobo sauce, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better one in the area. Their breakfast sandwich is also fantastic, but that’s for another article.

Top Shelf, Low Brow at the Quiet Few

The Quiet Few : A near-weekly go-to when I lived on Sumner St in East Boston for 2 years, this is one of the neighborhood’s great casual weekend spots and serves some terrific fried chicken sandwiches. Their Nashville hot is a menu staple, but the chicken parm sub they do in the colder weather is one of the city’s great comfort meals. Additionally, the Abe Maisel (the steak sandwich shown above) was a menu special back in 2023, and it's still one of the best things I've eaten in Boston. Bonus points for washing it down with a spicy pickleback or two.

Join Up & Adam Food Tours

Excellent news, the Italian from Monica's is now part of my North End Food Tour ! Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

Discover the Boston Area's Best Cafes: A Food Tour Guide Part IV

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 23:16:22 GMT

By Adam Branco

It's been far too long since I put up a blog for all of you, but I've visited some more great cafes and moved to a wonderful new neighborhood with plenty of them, so this one is long overdue. Those who haven't read the previous installments can click here for Part I, here for Part II, and here for Part III. For those who are already caught up, here's Part IV:

It Means Magic at Jadu

Jadu: Let's set it off with a new cafe in my new neighborhood in Jamaica Plain that's quickly becoming one of Centre St's great hangout locations. From the word meaning "Magic" in Hindi, Jadu is barely 6 months old but has been nothing but packed to the brim each time I've gone. The menu is largely inspired by the owner Maya Mukhopadhaya's time in India and Lebanon, and they get their chai from Dorchester-based Madhrasi (I met them in Union Square's weekend market; they're very nice people). They also started serving wine in the evening about 3 weeks ago, and they have a spacious out-the-door-and-around-the-corner patio that they share with Vee Vee. I had Remnant Brewery in Union Square, and now I have Jadu in JP.

Boston's Only Cinema Cafe at The VU

The VU: Does it count as a cafe if there's no seating? It's my blog and my rules, so I'll allow it. Short for Video Underground, The VU is Boston's only video rental store, a small-batch coffee roaster, and a full-service coffee shop that truly encapsulates the JP community. Go more than twice, and Kevin will be able to call out your order the next time you walk in before you even say a word. If you do in fact have a DVD player, they have about 4,000 titles available for rental. Prices are also shockingly low, which is a breath of fresh air. Just don't ask him about Forrest Gump.

Nourishing Food and Soulful Community at Ula Cafe

Ula Cafe: Extremely coz y and decked with local art, this cafe, located in JP's Brewery Complex, is a black-owned, woman-owned, and veteran-owned cafe, bakery, and lunch spot. The whole complex is a pretty fantastic case study of mixed-use development, and Ula has become a classic JP staple. Come in, get snug with everyone else trying to get some work done, and enjoy.

Imagine a Nameless Cafe at Kismet

Kismet: Out of the countless social media phrases regarding food & drink that have become exhausted and watered down, some random Instagram reel or TikTok calling the 10th different spot of the week "viral" has become particularly irksome; there's no way all of these spots are that great. So, when my friends sent me a video of a "viral nameless cafe" in Cambridge about 1.3 miles northwest of Harvard Square, I rolled my eyes. However, I wanted to give it a shot, and I'm happy I did. This is one of the cooler hangout spots I've been to in a while. Created by the team behind Iggy's Bread, its official name is Kismet and is also referred to as Imagine Cafe. Nicole M. Hernandez Abud from the Harvard Crimson said it best:

"The small space is beautifully decorated with furry carpets, fluffy cushions, and a fireplace whose lively flames warm the room. A monochromatic palette — off-white, beige, and light grays — is complemented by the dark wood of the counter and the pops of green from the succulents spread around. Although limited, the seating is arranged at the edge of the walls as a continuous banquette to be shared by all customers, rendering the place more inviting."

It's certainly worth the trek.

Funny Business at Circus Cooperative Cafe

Circus Cooperative Cafe: A vibrant employee-owned and operated cafe at one of the former Darwin's locations on Putnam Ave by the Central Square stop has gone through, as Cambridge Day called it, a bohemian reboot. With turquoise walls and couches suitable for Sunday naps, this cafe is as quirky as it is inviting and certainly encapsulates what a hip Cambridge hangout spot should feel like.

Turkish Delights at Sip of Joy

Sip of Joy: In the South End for this one, Matt, who was an absolute joy to talk to, and Burju Sari make small-batch Turkish coffee (along with George Howell coffee) to go with Turkish and American small bites in a tremendously relaxing space. The South End is one of the great Boston neighborhoods, and this is a terrific addition to it.

Join Up & Adam Food Tours

If you'd rather try some new food in the area instead of a new cafe, come join of one of my food tours! Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

My Favorite Boston Comfort Meals: A Food Tour Guide Part II

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 22:53:19 GMT

By Adam Branco

I hope you all enjoyed Part I of my favorite Boston area comfort meals. If you haven't read it yet, click here . If you already have, here's another list of my favorites:

A Reminder of Simpler Times at Sound Bites

The Broadway Bowl from Sound Bites : A callback to the days of living in Ball Square, Somerville, this was a staple on lazy Sundays when all we could muster up was a 3-minute walk from the apartment. Home fries (which are kind of like mashed potatoes but seared on the flattop) * topped with sautéed tomato, peppers, onions, and fresh avocado, with three eggs your way on top and cheddar cheese. Eating this and then crawling back to our couch made for an excellent Sunday.

*Per a Reddit post , the restaurant has new owners, and they might have changed the hash browns. I’ll have to go back and confirm. If true, this is a huge bummer.

Warm Your Insides With Dorchester Pho

Pho in Fields Corner, Dorchester: When I lived in a sublet by Andrew Square in South Boston, I had the chance to discover Dorchester’s vibrant Vietnamese food scene, especially its pho, which was perfect for cold Boston winters and the day after a late night out. There are many options to choose from, but while living in Southie my go-to was Anh Hong. Sadly, they closed, but they merged with Pho Hoa and I very much enjoy everything that they have to offer.

Peruvian Comfort Food at Rincon Limeño

Tacu Tacu from Rincon Limeño : More Peruvian food, this time in East Boston by the Airport stop. This soothing dish consists of rice and canary beans in a creamy sauce topped with shrimp, mussels, and squid. Bonus points for also getting an empanada.

A Harvard Square Favorite at Felipe's

Super burrito at Felipe's Taqueria : A special thank you to Jake Morrissey for introducing me to Felipe's in 2018, which is when this picture was taken as you can see from the questionable resolution. Sometimes you need to decompress by devouring a fat burrito and people-watching for a little while. It's also pretty incredible how reasonable prices have stayed post-COVID. If you want to get the night going, their $8.50 margarita with homemade curacao is just about the cheapest you'll find in the Boston area and it's quite good.

Feels Like Home at Mi Pueblito East Boston

Seafood soup from Mi Pueblito : For any East Boston residents bearing the brutal Boston winters, this is a proper soup to indulge in and stay warm. They fill it to the brim with seafood and it’s so comforting. Another excellent seafood soup option for the Somerville/Cambridge residents is the parihuela from Machu Picchu in Union Square.

Easy Like Sunday Morning at Puritan & Co

Smoked brisket hash at Puritan & Co : A popular restaurant in Inman Square, Cambridge's rather underrated food scen e, Puritan & Co's smoked brisket with roasted peppers, potatoes, sunny eggs, and honey mustard crema is a great weekend brunch choice to consume before retreating to your couch and watching Brooklyn 99 for the rest of the afternoon.

A Perfect Morning After Breakfast at Mike & Patty's

Mission Breakfast Burrito from Mike & Patty's : The Fancy breakfast sandwich from Mike & Patty's will be mentioned multiple times throughout these blogs (and is a dish on my Union Square Breakfast Tour!), but if you need a proper comfort meal for weekend breakfast, I strongly recommend their breakfast burrito. Loaded with scrambled eggs, American, Jack, and cheddar cheese, golden hash brown, avocado, pico de gallo, roasted poblano, salsa verde, salsa roja, and crema on a supersized flour tortilla (bacon is a la carte, which as a businessman I understand but as a patron is a bit annoying ), it's all parts hearty and filling and comforting.

Join Up & Adam Food Tours

But if you don’t want to go for a comfort meal and try something you haven’t before, consider hopping on one of my food tours! Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

Discover the Boston Area's Best Irish Pubs: A Food Tour Guide Part I

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 20:44:08 GMT

By Adam Branco

St Patrick's Day is quickly approaching, and given its importance in Boston , you're probably looking for a proper pub to celebrate the holiday. Don't worry, I'll help you out. Here's part I of some of the best Irish pubs in the Boston area:

A Little Piece of Ireland in Cambridge at The Druid

The Druid : Let's keep it close to the home base with this Inman Square, Cambridge favorite. The red walls, paper lantern-like figurines hanging from the ceilings, blaring live Irish music, proper pints of Guinness, and eclectic mix of students, professionals, hipsters, and old-timers make The Druid one of those spots that make you say "Yeah, this isn't my final visit" the instant you walk in. The only downside for the average tourist is that it's at least a half mile from any train stop, but that probably doesn't upset the locals much.

Sláinte at Mr. Dooley's

Mr. Dooley's : One of the quintessential downtown Boston Irish pubs, Dooley's has been doing proper pours and featuring lots of fiddle sessions for over 30 years now. You will see a fun mix of clientele here, and this is a great starter if you're new to the area and haven't been to any Irish pubs yet.

Photo courtesy of Mr. Dooley's

Up the Rebels at The Tam

The Tam : The term "dive bar" gets thrown around quite a bit, and proper ones in the everchanging downtown Boston landscape are few and far between. The Tam, however, stands strong. Located mere steps from the Boston Common, the green awning with the old-school Michelob Budweiser sign is as recognizable of an entrance as any Boston institution. This spot will quickly suck you in, and it'll make for a rather fun few hours.

Photo courtesy of Time Out

An Empty Sack Does Not Stand at Biddy Early's

Biddy Early's : Let's continue the theme of proper dives left in downtown Boston. Biddy's is like a couch that might not be the most aesthetically pleasing but is perfect for napping because of how broken in it is. Surrounded by corporate office buildings and 5-star hotels, this spot still has much utility in Boston's nightlife scene and hopefully remains for just a while longer.

Photo courtesy of Biddy Early's

Boston's Best Irish Coffee at Emmets

Emmets : Just steps from the State House, Emmets is a cozy Irish pub/restaurant and is a perfect stop for a drink as you bounce around the Beacon Hill area. While the Irish Coffee isn't on the level of The Dead Rabbit in NYC or Swift Soho in London, it's still quite good and a proper pick-me-up. Here, plus Roxanne's, 21st Amendment, and Carrie Nation would make for a pretty fantastic neighborhood bar crawl.

A Century Plus of Irish American Tradition of J.J. Foley's Cafe

J.J. Foley's Cafe : If you close your eyes and imagine a Boston Irish cop dive bar, J.J. Foley's will almost certainly be the end result. First established in 1909, this is the oldest Irish bar in the city. if walls could talk, there'd be some pretty fun stories of what once was.

Photo courtesy of Imbibe Magazine

Old Reliable at Durty Nelly's

Durty Nelly's : It's been quite a while since all the guys and I met up here and lost track of the amount of Guinness and whatever else we consumed that night, but man, if it wasn't a lot of fun. If you're by the North End, it's worth stopping by for a quick drink.

Photo courtesy of Durty Nelly's

Join Up & Adam Food Tours

If you'd rather try some new food in the area instead of an Irish pub, come join one of my food tours! Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

$20 Dates in Boston: A Food Tour Guide Part II

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:49:37 GMT

By Adam Branco

I hope you all enjoyed the first installment of this $20 date series. If you haven't checked it out yet, click here .

If you're looking for more ideas, don't worry. Here's another list for you.

How Can You Not Be Romantic About Baseball at Fenway Park

Fenway Park Student 9's : This one's for the students; after all, there are about 200,000 of them in the Boston area. Fenway's the Mecca and a game there is one of the quintessential Boston experiences, but tickets can get expensive quickly. Luckily, there's the Student 9s program. As long as you have a working school email address, you can get discounted $9 tickets from the Red Sox website. Every time I'm there, I see hoards of BU students walking over to enjoy the game in right field.

All the Classic Pinball Games in Bow Market

Pinball in Bow Market : Bow Market, one of the great gems of Somerville and a stop on each of my Union Square tours, now has a cozy pinball arcade with 11 machines ranging from the 1970s to the 1990s. They have a machine inside for change, and most games are only about $1 - $3 to play, so bring a $20 bill and you’ll be able to play quite a few games between the two of you.

A Jamaica Plain Gem at the Arnold Arboretum

The Arnold Arboretum : A botanical research institution and free public park affiliated with Harvard University and located by the Forest Hills stop in Jamaica Plain, the Arboretum is one of Boston's prettiest escapes from busy metropolitan life and a wonderful spot to wander around. I've biked through it with friends, had picnics there, and walked through it aimlessly more times than I can count.

A Date on Wheels with Blue Bikes

Blue biking day pass : As someone in the top 1% of Blue Bike riders in the city, I'm rather biased when I say that it's one of the best ways to explore the city. It also makes for a great $20 date, as it's only $10 per person for 24 hours of access to the bikes with free unlocks of classic bikes and e-bikes. Per the website, you can keep a bike out for up to 2 hours at a time. If you're enjoying a long ride and want to keep a bike out longer than 2 hours at a time, it’s only an extra $0.25 per minute. When you choose an e-bike you'll pay $0.25/min for the duration of your ride with no unlock fee. You can take a bike out from any station within the system and return it to any other station.

Free Admission at the Harvard Art Museums

Harvard Art Museum free admission: The Harvard Art Museum is now free admission for all visitors! If you're ever in the area, they have some fascinating pieces of work and on the final Thursday of every month they keep it open late for food, drinks, music, and rotating exhibitions.

Boston Sunsets at Dorchester Heights

Slices at Alfredo’s and Sunset at Dorchester Heights – When I lived in a South Boston sublet on Telegraph St from the beginning of August to the end of December 2020, Dorchester Heights became one of my favorite local hangout spots. I also saw 4 proposals up there during that summer, so clearly people see it as a rather romantic spot. Get some pizza slices (or even a sub) at Alfredo’s* at the base of Telegraph St, stroll up to the top of the hill, and enjoy.

*You can also substitute this for a 4-pack or a cheap bottle of wine.

Longstanding Cambridge Music Talent at The Lilypad

Jazz at The Lilypad : An intimate 80-person capacity (60 for seated shows) venue in Inman Square, the Lilypad is largely known for its bebop and avant-garde jazz scene. They have shows for as cheap as $10 per person, and shows featuring the Jerry Bergonzi Quartet and the Fringe (who recently celebrated 50 years as a group) are $10 for student tickets.

Oyster Happy Hour Deals in Boston

$1 Oysters : Oysters are delicious, but can run up a serious bill very quickly. Additionally , Boston famously doesn't have happy hour, but restaurants have attempted to skate by that rule by offering discounted food since they're not allowed to offer discounted drinks. You can find $1 oysters throughout the week in downtown Boston, Southie, Dorchester, Somerville, Cambridge, Charlestown, and more neighborhoods.

An Ice Cream Date in Boston and Cambridge

Ice cream – Ice cream's my favorite food and it makes for a great casual date. When it gets warmer, I'll make a whole blog about it, but for now here's a pic from Toscanini's , one of the Boston area's most notable ice cream shops.

Join Up & Adam Food Tours

But if you feel like you should spend more than $20 on a date, consider going on one of my food tours! Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

$20 Dates in Boston: A Food Tour Guide Part I

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:41:07 GMT

By Adam Branco

Being single in Boston can be a wonderful adventure if you let it be. I want you all to go to cool places, see new parts of the city, and spend time with people you’re excited about, but I don’t want you to empty your bank account to do so.

So, behold. An ongoing list of $20 (plus or minus a dollar or two) dates that are unique, interactive, and not a couple of rounds of overpriced cocktails downtown for the 3 ^rd time this month.

North End Sandwiches at Monica's and Dino's

Split a sandwich from Monica’s or Dino's and walk around the North End : The Italian at Monica’s is $20 plus 7% Massachusetts tax, and the steak bomb with the works at Dino’s is $19 price tag plus 7% Massachusetts tax. They’re also huge, so splitting the sandwich between two people shouldn’t be an issue. Take your sandwich and hang out in the Paul Revere Mall, the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, or along the harbor walk.

Free First Thursday's at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum free admission first Thursday of each month : Museum nights will be an ongoing theme for these blogs, but this museum will be the first installment for a couple of specific reasons. First, the ISG is a more uniquely Bostonian museum than the likes of the MFA. Second, it used to be much cheaper when I first went in 2017, but thanks to Covid, inflation, and a Netflix documentary , admission is now $22 per person. In my opinion, it’s not necessarily worth it at that price point. The courtyard is gorgeous, and the origin story and subsequent robbery story are fascinating, but because it’s someone’s personal art collection and much of it was stolen and not replaced, there’s just not a ton to see. If you take your sweet time, you only need an hour and a half there.

That’s where the free admission night comes into play. The museum stays open late, they’ll have music or poetry in the courtyard, the lights are dim, and it’s a lovely date night in one of the more charming locations in Boston. Take the $44 you’ll save between the two of you and allocate it towards the second date.

My Favorite Pizza in Boston and My Favorite View of Boston

Pizza at Santarpio's (and assorted Eastie foods) and walk to the docks: I lived in East Boston for two years. It was wonderful, and I miss it a bunch. It also has the city's best views at the docks along East Pier Dr, and I’ve brought plenty of friends and dates there. Additionally, as a New Haven County-raised pizza snob, Santarpio’s is my favorite pizza in Boston, and a cheese pizza will run you $14 before tax (and tip). Grab a pie, head down to the docks, and enjoy.

Exploring Central Square's Art Scene

Coffee and graffiti hunt in Central Square : This is neither the first nor the last time you’ll see coffee as a casual first date suggestion, but while you’re in Central Square, take advantage of the eclectic art and mural scene . Graffiti Alley is ever-changing, there are some wonderful murals on and off Mass Ave, and if you’re really up for an adventure, the city of Cambridge put together a self-guided art tour . My favorite coffee shops in the neighborhood are Cicada and 1369 Coffee House .

A Cambridge Arcade Night at Roxy's

Roxy’s Arcade : Staying in Cambridge for this one, Roxy’s is a grilled cheese shop and an arcade bar mashed together to create a bit of an adult playground. With $20, you and your date can play at least 4 or 5 different games each and have quite a bit of fun. Just do the best you can to avoid going during peak hours on Friday and Saturday.

Photo courtesy of Roxy's Arcade

One of Boston's Most Creative Communities at SoWa

SoWa : Short for South of Washington St, SoWa is a South End community of artist studios, vintage clothing, galleries, retail shops, design showrooms, and restaurants. The Vintage Market and art studios upstairs are open every Sunday year-round. The Open Market , featuring over 100 regional and local vendors and food trucks, is open every Sunday from the beginning of May till the end of October. The Christmas Market in the Power Station is also wonderful, and First Fridays , which goes on from 5:00 – 9:00 the first Friday of every month, is free to the public. Go to any of these events for a lovely South End adventure.

Boston's Greatest Musicians at Berklee College of Music

Berklee College of Music performances : I don’t know about you, but I certainly take for granted the sheer amount of talent in the Boston area across an array of industries and specialties. Berklee College of Music is a top 3 to 5 music school in the country right in our backyard, and many of the best musicians in the country perform at the school and all around the city for quite cheap or even free. You’ll also see Berklee students perform in spots like Warehouse XI or throughout the ongoing Sofar Sounds series.

Photo courtesy of Berklee College of Music

Exploring Boston's Parks at the Boston Public Garden and the Esplanade

A sunny day at the Boston Public Garden and the Esplanade : Dating isn't always a walk in the park, but sauntering through the Public Garden and the Esplanade is. It's very hard to beat Boston's green space in the warm weather, and good company would make it even better. Even in the winter, the pond frequently freezes over, which has become one of my favorite Boston traditions and it makes for an eventful stroll.

The Esplanade, a riverfront park running from the West End to Boston University, makes for one of Boston’s most pleasant walks as the weather gets warmer. Stop at the Owl’s Nest for a beer while you’re out and about.

Intern Heaven at Coogan's

$1 Bud Lights at Coogan’s – I’m kidding (unless).

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Discover the Boston Area's Best Cafes: A Food Tour Guide Part III

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 21:29:47 GMT

By Adam Branco

I do dry January every year, so instead of going to bars, I went to some more terrific cafes. I went to enough where it warranted making another blog for all of you. Those who haven't read the previous installments can click here for Part I and here for Part II. For those who are already caught up, here's Part III:

A Taste of Rwanda at Yego Coffee

Yego Coffee : For the Somerville, Medford, and East Arlington locals looking for a new place to grab a cup of coffee, certainly check out this Teele Square cafe. This husband and wife team has created a sleek, minimalist hangout spot with coffee made from beans directly from their family farm in Rwanda. Bonus points for the fun Bolivian art they put up.

Friends of Friends at Tilde

Tilde : Shoutout to my friend Kara for telling me about this place her friends recently opened up (Also, when you and Nisha see this, let's kick our feet soon). This few-months-old cafe about a 10-minute walk from the Porter Square stop is a wonderfully vibrant but relaxing cafe by day and a hip wine bar by night. If the owners ever see this, you nailed it with the burnt orange interior.

Antiques and Waffles in Cambridge at Curio Coffee

Curio Coffee : With some hanging plants and fake taxidermy adorning the walls along with a serpent constricting a cup of coffee as its logo, Curio is the perfect hip and quirky cafe for East Cambridge's surprisingly eclectic food scene. Also known for their waffles, getting a coffee here then pastries down the road at Cafe Beatrice would make for a rather good couple of hours.

For the Cambridge Community at 1369 Coffee House

1369 Coffee House : With two Cambridge locations, one in Inman Square and one in Central Square, this cafe has now been a cozy hangout for locals and students alike for over 30 years. Both places also sell pieces from local artists, which not only adds charm to each location but helps support the people who make these neighborhoods what they are.

From P-Town to Boston at Kohi Coffee

Kohi Coffee : Originally founded in the Cape Cod town of Provincetown, Kohi now has two Boston locations in Brighton by the New Balance building and in the South End. I've gone with friends to the Brighton location; it's a wonderful addition to the growing area and for those with dietary restrictions, they have some rather good vegan snacks.

Photo courtesy of Maggie Hall and Kohi Coffee

Small but Mighty at Gracenote Coffee

Gracenote Coffee : This Leather district cafe by South Station has to be no more than 300 square feet, but what they lack in seating room they make up for in quality ingredients and hospitality. I had their ginger chai that they make with fresh ginger and I can't wait to have it again.

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Boston's Best Hot Chocolate: A Food Tour Guide

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 22:46:27 GMT

By Adam Branco

It's winter in Boston and we need to warm up, what else is there to say? Here's a list of my favorite hot chocolate spots in the Boston area:

Excellent South End Sweets at Cacao

Cacao : Quickly rising the ranks of my favorite chocolate spots in the area, husband-and-wife team Perla Rosario and Leo Baez founded Cocao in 2018 to show what the Dominican Republic offers through chocolate. Their rich and deep hot chocolate might be my second favorite in the city, and their cafe on the corner of Mass Ave and Columbus in the South End is a lovely hangout spot. They have additional locations downtown and in Newton.

Joanne Chang's Creations at Flour Bakery + Cafe

Flour Bakery + Cafe : Founded by Harvard alum Joanne Chang in 2000, the casual sit-down bakery Flour has exploded into 10 locations around the Boston area. With so many spots, their quality control for both sweet and savory products is to be commended. They also do a rather good hot chocolate that would pair great with one of their cookies. If you're feeling a little more adventurous, they have a spicy version that makes your taste buds feel just a little bit more alive.

Artisan Chocolates From Around the World at Beacon Hill Chocolates

Beacon Hill Chocolates : We head to Beacon Hill for an adorable shop on Charles St. Beacon Hill Chocolates has a wide variety of chocolate treats as well as a pleasantly nostalgic hot chocolate that's nothing to sneeze at. While you're there, make sure to buy some salted caramel chocolates and I strongly recommend checking out Beacon Hill Books & Cafe just a few doors down.

Creating Community in Cambridge at 1369 Coffee House

1369 Coffee House : Spoiler alert: I'm doing a Best Cafes part II blog at some point and this will absolutely be on it. With one spot in Inman Square and another in Central Square, 1369 is one of Cambridge's quintessential coffee shops. Their hot chocolate is also a quality menu edition and will quickly warm you up during this particularly cold Boston winter.

With Help From a Somerville Chocolate Company at Cafe Beatrice

cafe Beatrice : As you can tell from other blogs , I'm a huge fan of the pastries from here. They also do a rather good hot chocolate that uses Somerville's very own Taza Chocolate , which uses a stone-ground technique to give its own unique texture. Pair this with their maple kouign amann for a particularly indulgent treat.

An East Cambridge Favorite at Curio Coffee

Curio Coffee : A straight shot down the road from 1369, Curio Coffee is a quaint and eclectic coffee shop not too far from the Lechmere stop. Like Beatrice, they also use Taza Chocolate, but the way they prepare it gives it a texture that makes it richer and an adventure for your palette. They're known for their waffles, so feel free to pair the two of them for another indulgent treat while in East Cambridge.

Hot Chocolate From the Group Behind One of Boston's Best Bakeries at Atelier Colette

Atelier Colette : Owned by the same people who own Colette , one of my favorite bakeries in the area, this Beacon Hill shop does not only lovely artisan chocolates but also a rich hot chocolate that's worth picking up and bringing with you for your adventure in the neighborhood.

Boston's Best Chocolate at LA Burdick

LA Burdick : Anyone who's been on my website for more than 5 seconds knew this was coming. Ridiculously rich and decadent, this institution is the spot you will compare every other Boston area hot chocolate to once you have it. The Boston area shops in Back Bay, Harvard Square, and Coolidge Corner are all decked in Parisian brown tones and offer an array of chocolates and other baked goods that make for a wonderful hangout.

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You can try LA Burdick's hot chocolate on either of my Back Bay Chocolate Tours! If you're not a fan of chocolate, I run three other food tours that might suit your taste a bit better. Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

My Favorite Boston Comfort Meals: A Food Tour Guide Part I

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 21:20:26 GMT

By Adam Branco

Not every time I go out to eat consists of some grand adventure to find the next great Boston area dish. I have go-to comfort meals just like the rest of you, ones that are close by, warm, filling, and don't break the bank. Here’s part I of my list:

Switching It Up from Sushi at Ebi Sushi

Chicken teriyaki at Ebi Sushi : I love sushi as much as the next person, but you need to be in a certain mood for it and it quickly runs up the bill. As a comfort food alternative, I often get this dish at Ebi Sushi about a 3-minute walk from where I live in Union Square. 5 or 6 pieces of chicken teriyaki thighs, garlic noodles, carrots and broccoli, a bowl of miso soup, and a bowl of rice all for $20. Pro tip: eat everything except the rice first, then dump the rice onto the plate to let it soak up the leftover sauce and enjoy.

Sooth Your Soul in Chinatown at Tora Ramen

Black garlic tonkotsu ramen at Tora Ramen : Different Asian soups and noodle dishes will appear on this list, and for a good reason. How much more comforting does it get than a warm broth? Personally, this has been a specific kind of comfort meal during my time in Boston. I don’t go out like that anymore, but when I used to really boogie, I had specific day-after meals depending on how terrible I felt when I woke up. When I felt especially rough, I would resort to the black garlic tonkotsu ramen at Chinatown’s Tora Ramen. Perfectly fatty, salty, and soothing, it was the perfect meal to take down before falling asleep on my friend’s couch while watching football for 8 straight hours.

A Taste of Peru Without the Flight at Machu Picchu

Aji de gallina at Machu Picchu : While Peruvian food is mostly characterized by ceviche, this dish is my go-to at Machu Picchu in my neighborhood of Union Square. Poached chicken in a creamy nut-based sauce is served over white rice and boiled potatoes. Bright yellow—amarillo—in color, thanks to the ají Amarillo pepper, and rich from the unusual sauce of ground walnuts, this dish is hearty, filling, and delicious.

One of Chinatown's Essential Restaurants at Taiwan Cafe

Taiwanese-style pan-fried dumplings from Taiwan Cafe : This dish is also a very specific comfort meal, as this Chinatown restaurant is only about a 10-minute walk from South Station. Whenever I’m coming back from hanging out in NYC or the holidays in CT, I’ll head over here for a late-night bite to eat. Perfectly fatty, crispy, and satisfying, these dumplings are my go-to in the city.

My Go-To Union Square Restaurant at Himalayan Kitchen

Chicken Madras at Himalayan Kitchen : One of the dishes I always order when I bring friends here, this is a rich and fragrant curry and a great deviation from the tikka masalas of the world. The dish consists of chicken cooked in a tamarind sauce with a touch of ginger, coconut, mustard seed, curry leaves, and garlic, served with rice. It’s about as comforting as it gets in Union Square.

*Photo courtesy of Himalayan Kitchen

A Taste of X'ian at Gene's Flatbread Cafe

Hand-pulled noodles from Gene’s Flatbread Kitchen : One of my favorite Boston hole-in-the-wall restaurants, their hand-pulled noodles have been a lunch staple of mine for years now and are one of the great value meals in downtown Boston. Bonus points for the lamb sticks.

Hearty Colombian Food at El Peñol

Bandeja paisa at El Peñol : A traditional Colombian dish with beans, rice, arepa, chorizo, plantain, chicharrón, avocado, and beef, this was one of those dishes where I would finish the workweek on Friday, get in my workout, devour this, then retreat to my cave of a bedroom for the night.

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Discover the Boston Area's Best Cafes: A Food Tour Guide Part II

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 22:08:02 GMT

By Adam Branco

Much like the bakery blogs, we have so many lovely cafes in the Boston area that I needed to make a sequel. For those who haven't read Part I yet, you can click here . For those who have, here's Part II:

Union Square, Somerville History at Bloc Cafe

Bloc Cafe : Right in my neighborhood of Union Square, Somerville, this is set in an old bank, and you can hang out in the old vault! It’s certainly a very cool, unique hangout spot. They have a lovely courtyard for the warmer weather and they turn on the fire in the back room for the colder weather. If we’re being completely honest, though, most of the food they serve isn’t worth the price point. I enjoy the avocado toast, though.

A Proper Neighborhood Hangout at Diesel Cafe

Diesel Cafe: Owned by the same people who own Bloc Café, Diesel has been located in Davis Square, Somerville for a little over two decades now. The menu is more or less a duplicate of Bloc Café, but the place itself has its own unique feel thanks to some recent renovations. Sandwiches at Dave’s Fresh Pasta then a coffee here would make for a very nice afternoon.

A Caffeinated Surprise at Remnant Brewing

Remnant Brewing: Yes, I said brewery. Set in Bow Market in Union Square, Somerville, Remnant is a café by day. You can take the coffee you buy and bring it anywhere around Bow Market, or sit around their spacious interior. They also have a satellite location that's quickly becoming a quintessential Inman Square neighborhood spot.

A Downtown Coffee Lounge at Tradesman

Tradesman: A laidback, stylist lounge by the Aquarium stop. Known for their fun and eclectic croissants, there’s also a cocktail bar in the coffee shop that's open Monday – Thursday from 3:00 – 8:00 pm. There’s an additional location in Charlestown.

*Picture copyright of The Dagny Boston

A Taste of Japan at Ogawa Coffee

Ogawa : A Japanese coffee chain’s first international branch, this in located in the Financial District not too far from the State St stop. You'll see lots of professionals here who work nearby in the Financial District, and it's right next to the Old South Meeting House if you're looking for a quick cup of coffee while exploring Boston's Revolutionary War history.

*Picture copyright of Ogawa Coffee USA

Charming Brazilian Fare at bōm dough

bōm dough: A laidback, largely Brazilian-inspired spot in Inman Square, Cambridge. They do a variety of pão de queijo (cheese bread), coffee, sandwiches, and salads. I honestly need to do a whole article about Inman Square because this is just one of many worthwhile places to check out.

*Picture copyright of bom dough

A Vibrant North End Institution at Caffe Vittoria

Caffe Vittoria: Established in 1929, this bustling café right next to Mike’s Pastry is Boston's oldest Italian cafe. The energy here is always high, and the tightly packed seating will ensure that you'll be making some new friends while hanging out there. Caffè Paradiso down the road is where I like to relax, but this is where I like to bring friends. Cash only.

Dunkin - I'm Kidding (Unless)

Join Up & Adam Food Tours

And a great time to check out the last spot in the North End would be before or after my North End Pastry Tour ! Additionally, you can check out the Somerville/Cambridge spots before or after one of my Union Square tours, and the downtown Boston spots before or after one of my Back Bay tours. Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

Discover the Boston Area's Best Cafes: A Food Tour Guide Part I

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 00:15:43 GMT

By Adam Branco

There are few things better than easing into your morning or wasting your afternoon away at a proper café, and luckily the Boston area has plenty to choose from. Here are some of my favorites:

A Taste of Saigon at Cicada Coffee Bar

Cicada Coffee – Located in Central Square, Cambridge, this is my favorite coffee shop in the Boston area. They’re from Vietnam, so their salt coffee and Cicada latte – characterized by the addition of condensed milk – are menu staples. They also have rather good pastries and very fun banh mi and noodle dishes by day, and it’s a surprisingly sexy date spot by night. Just be prepared for a line on weekends; this place is a poorly kept secret and only one person making coffee at a time creates quite the bottleneck.

Small-Batch Specialties at Broadsheet Coffee Roasters

Broadsheet Coffee Roasters: Located on the Somerville and Cambridge borders between Union Square and Harvard Square, this sleek, modern cafe is frequently packed with locals enjoying their small-batch coffee drinks. You will see their coffee bags being sold at the cafe, as well as on restaurant menus all around the area.

Copenhagen in Cambridge at VESTER

Vester – Named after the Danish town Brøndbyvester, this is a very cool spot by Kendall Square in Cambridge. It's a great place to hang out, and they have a variety of food on their menu. There’s now an additional location in Southie.

Contemporary Vietnamese Flavors at Phinista

Phinista – Another Vietnamese coffee shop, this one’s a bit more contemporary and by Fenway Park. I enjoyed the breakfast banh mi and the ube latte. They also just opened up a shop in Porter Square.

Only the Finest at George Howell

George Howell – Some of the most acclaimed coffee in the area, the Downtown Crossing location is a great hangout spot frequented by students and professionals. There’s an additional grab-and-go location in the Boston Public Market and a sit-down location in Newton.

A Cozy South End Morning at Render

Render Coffee - A proper, cozy hangout coffee shop in the South End not far from the Mass Ave stop. You will see plenty of friends chatting, students working, and everyone just a little bit more relaxed than usual. They have a larger location in the back of Seaport, but you will soon know my feelings about Seaport.

A Warm Ambiance at Brothers & Sisters Co.

Brothers & Sisters Co. - An incredibly cozy spot in Brookline steps from the Brookline Village T stop. This is very much one of those cafes that sucks you in. If I lived closer, I would frequent this place far too often.

A Coffeehouse for Locals at Caffe Paradiso

Caffe Paradiso - Located on Hanover Street right next to Modern Pastry, Paradiso is my spot in the North End to relax. Known for their espresso martinis and pistachio martinis, they also serve rather good coffee and a variety of sweets. Their gelato is more than worthwhile, as well.

Join Up & Adam Food Tours

A great time to check out the last spot in the North End would be before or after my North End Pastry Tour ! Additionally, you can check out the Somerville/Cambridge spots before or after one of my Union Square tours, and the South End spots before or after one of my Back Bay tours. Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

Discover The Boston Area’s Best Bakeries: A Food Tour Guide Part II

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 22:37:57 GMT

By Adam Branco

Those who live in the Boston area are very lucky to have an array of wonderful bakeries to visit. There are so many, in fact, that I need to do a part II blog on my favorites around here so you all have more to add to your checklist. Those who haven't read part I yet can click here . For those who have, here's a list of more of my favorite bakeries,

Exploring Sweet & Savory Flavors at Bakey Babka

Bakey Babka : This kosher bakery right across from the Boston Common is the perfect place to stop for something savory or sweet while exploring all of what downtown has to offer. Their chocolate babka, which is a sweet, braided bread that originated in Jewish communities in Poland and Ukraine, is one of my weekend favorite sweet treats in the city. They also do a variety of sweet babkas, savory and flaky burekas, sandwiches, and salads. Pair with a coffee from George Howell around the corner for a proper late-morning snack.

A Taste of France & Italy at Clear Flour Bread

Clear Flour Bread: A Brookline institution since 1982, they make some of my favorite croissants and buns in the Boston area, and their breads are excellent as well. They even have a very cute coffee bar next door where you can hang out with your food and any other goods you buy. Fair warning, this place is a very poorly kept secret and the lines can get quite long on weekends

A Unique Spin on the Classics at Third Cliff Bakery

Third Cliff Bakery: Located about a half mile from the Green Street stop in Jamaica Plain, this cozy neighborhood favorite adds its creative twist to classic pastries to stand out in the competitive Boston bakery market. Their kimchi-cheddar and guava-cream cheese croissants are menu staples, and they also sell baked goods like vegan orange cardamom morning buns, cherry chocolate scones, and different breads and olive oil cakes.

Bang For Your Buck in Chinatown at Ho Yuen Bakery

Ho Yuen Bakery: Admittedly, the inspiration for this sequel blog was that I was kicking myself for not adding any of the reliable and cost-effective Chinatown bakeries I've visited countless times while wandering around downtown with some extra cash in my wallet. Ho Yuen is a spot I've visited as much as any on these lists, and the custard bun in the picture above, which costs an earth-shattering $2, has been in my rotation for years. They also do savory Hong Kong-style buns as well as egg tarts.

Brian Mercury's Works of Art at cafe Beatrice

cafe Beatrice: I'm not quite sure who this Beatrice woman is, but I'm very thankful for her. I briefly mentioned Brian Mercury in my other blog , but it's time to discuss cafe Beatrice, where his critically acclaimed pastries are on full display. An unassuming spot only two or three minutes from the Lechmere stop, the passion fruit brioche is quite possibly my favorite tart pastry in the Boston area, and maple kouign amann and the cinnamon roll (which is in the picture above next to a guava and cream cheese brioche) are truly excellent. They also make an array of sandwiches and salad bowls.

A New York City Institution in Boston at Levain Bakery

Levain Bakery: This famous New York City-founded bakery that's made its way to Back Bay and Seaport is nowadays known for its huge 6-ounce cookies, but they also make a variety of breads, scones, and brioches. However, the cookies reign supreme and my current favorite is their caramel coconut chocolate chip, which is shown in the picture above.

Join Up & Adam's Back Bay and North End Tours

If you want to check out Levain while you're in Boston, consider joining one of my Back Bay Chocolate Tours ! If you want to explore the North End pastry scene and see what the hype is all about, come join my North End Pastry Tour ! Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.

Discover The Boston Area’s Best Bakeries: A Food Tour Guide

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:18:49 GMT

By Adam Branco

For as much spirited debate as there is for tourists and locals alike regarding Mike’s, Modern, and Bova’s in the North End, they’re not the only worthwhile bakeries in the area by a longshot. As a matter of fact, there are quite a few terrific bakeries all around the Boston area accessible by the MBTA or a short drive. Here’s a list of some of my favorites.

Exploring Unique Flavors at Yafa Bakery & Café

Yafa Bakery & Café: This Palestinian bakery is only a couple of years old and is on Somerville Ave between Union Square and Porter Square. It quickly became one of my go-to bakeries and one of the most impressive in the area. My favorite goods are the kunafeh pistachio, the classic and chocolate baklavas, the harissa, the stuffed dates, and their chai. It’s also a very laidback hangout spot.

French Delights at Colette Bakery

Colette Bakery: One of the great French bakeries in the area, I’ve been to the Medford location by Tufts University, but they also have a South End location on Columbus Ave and in Melrose by the Wyoming Hill Commuter Rail stop. Their croissants are acclaimed, and their team naming the croissant I bought "almond cho-Colette" makes it worth the visit.

Historical Treats at Lyndell’s Bakery

Lyndell’s : For how old and historical the North End bakeries are, they’re not even close to being the oldest in the area. Lyndell’s, located about a 5-minute walk from the Ball Square stop in Somerville, is the oldest scratch bakery in New England, having been around since 1887. My go-to is the espresso bar, but they have all kinds of pastries, cakes, and breads.

A Taste of France at Michette

Michette : Another fairly new bakery on Broadway in Somerville, this is another one of the great French bakeries in the area. I can’t even say I have a go-to; I get something new every time I walk in. Both their sweet and savory croissants are brilliant, I love their cookies, and their canelés are a lovely little treat. You can’t really go wrong here.

Artisan Pastries at La Saison Bakery

La Saison : This French bakery about a mile and a half northwest of Harvard Square is one of the great ones. They’re renowned for their sourdough bread, but I go for their pastries. They make a pistachio (you’ll see a pattern here) croissant with a saffron mascarpone frosting that is worth every bit of the trek there.

Middle Eastern Flavors at Sofra

Sofra : Part of the same group that owns the acclaimed restaurants Sarma and Oleana, Sofra – from the Turkish word meaning “picnic” - is a brilliant Middle Eastern bakery, café, and retail store about a mile and a half west of Harvard Square by the Mount Auburn Cemetery. Of course, I loved the pistachio roll, but I enjoyed their spanakopita and chocolate tahini donut even more. Grab a bunch of pastries and saunter around the cemetery.

Vietnamese Sweet Treats at Maprang

Maprang : An adorable Vietnamese bakery in Union Square where I live, they’re quickly becoming a staple of mine. They have a wide variety of mini cakes to choose from, but my go-to’s are opera cake and the chocolate almond croissant.

Where to Find Brian Mercury’s Pastries

And last but not least: anywhere that has pastries made by '2022 Best Pastry Chef', Brian Mercury , whether it be Puritan & Co , Café Beatrice , or The Lexington . I can’t praise this guy enough, and neither can the critics .

Join Up & Adam's the North End Pastry Tour

But if you still want to explore the North End pastry scene and see what the hype is all about, come join my North End Pastry Tour ! Check out upandamfoodtours.com , and email me at info@upandadamfoodtours.com or message me at (508) 271-7124 for more details.