so it’s a perfect place to go to before or after a show. Fast, no-nonsense service complements the terrific food here, and there are plenty of options for vegetarians and carnivores alike. $. B, L, D daily. 682 Washington St. 617-482-7467 www.phopasteur boston.net.
Beacon Hill
Carmen. Intimate, romantic, and expensive, Carmen is a top choice of North End residents. Chef Jeff Malloy’s Italian cuisine consistently earns highest ratings from Zagat and other food guides. Candlelit and sure to please—if your expense account allows. Reservations recommended. $$$$. D Tues.–Sun., L Fri.–Sat. 33 North Square. 617-742-6421. www .carmenboston.com. l’Osteria. Another consistent Italian favorite with the locals, l’Osteria has a warm and friendly atmosphere with plenty of extraordinary specials, especially the chicken and veal dishes. It’s a great choice for lunch too.
$$$. L, D daily. 104 Salem St. 617723-7847. www.losteria.com. Grezzo Restaurant. The food at Grezzo is Italian-inspired and all organic, raw, and vegan. They serve specialty drinks along with vegan and biodynamic beers and wines. The food is on the pricier side, so going in for a drink or two along with a couple of desserts is an acceptable option. $$$. L, D Tue.–Sun. 69 Prince St. 857-362-7288. www.grezzo restaurant.com. Mike’s Pastry/Modern Pastry. Many wonderful North End restaurants do not serve dessert. Why? It’s because everybody has dessert at one of these Hanover Street rivals. You decide who has better cannoli and join the best debate in Boston. Mike’s Pastry: 300 Hanover St. 617742-3050. www.mikespastry.com. Modern Pastry: 257 Hanover St. 617-523-3783. www.modernpastry .com. The Green Dragon Tavern. Established in 1654, The Green Dragon was a favorite haunt of Paul Revere
january/february 2010
Antico Forno. The name means old oven, and out of this oven comes some of the best brick oven pizza in Boston. Antico is more than pizza, though. Its ribollita or Tuscan white bean soup gets a lot of raves—the perfect thing for chilly nights. A favorite in the neighborhood. $$–$$$. L, D daily. 93 Salem St. 617-723-6733. www.anticoforno boston.com.
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King and I. Also on Charles Street, King and I is a decent Thai restaurant in a city that really needs more. King and I has a vegetarian menu and a fair number of regular menu items that aren’t cooked in oil, and they are also open to adding and mixing up items. $$. L Mon.–Sat., D daily. 145 Charles St. 617-227-3320. www .kingandi-boston.com.
North End
american libraries
Panificio. Beacon Hill is quintessential Boston, and the best way to take it in is by viewing the homes, antique stores, and restaurants on Charles Street. The restaurant is located on the last block and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner; but if all you try are the baked goods and coffee, that’s a great start. $$$ ($ for coffee and baked goods). B, L, D daily. 144 Charles St. 617227-4340. www.panificioboston .com.
Antico Forno in the North End.
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Anna’s Taqueria. Straight-up, simple, hearty, fast Mexican food. You can eat and eat well for under $6! When you’re walking around Beacon Hill get your energy up with a filling burrito or some carnitas. Vegetarians have options too, but make sure to specify the veggie rice, because the regular rice is made with chicken stock. Cash only. $. B, L, D daily. 242 Cambridge St. 617-227-8822. www.annastaqueria .com.