Received: from SOUTH-STATION-ANNEX.MIT.EDU by po5.MIT.EDU (5.61/4.7) id AA07391; Fri, 6 May 94 13:36:22 EDT Received: from panacea.media.mit.edu by MIT.EDU with SMTP id AA03278; Fri, 6 May 94 13:36:08 EDT Received: by panacea.media.mit.edu (NX5.67d/NX3.0M) id AA12341; Fri, 6 May 94 13:27:26 -0400 Date: Fri, 6 May 94 13:27:26 -0400 From: Pascal Chesnais Message-Id: <9405061727.AA12341@panacea.media.mit.edu> To: mkgray@MIT.EDU Subject: reviews F D S C -- -- -- I Pampas 928 Massachusetts Ave. (bet. Central & Harvard Sqs.), Cambridge, 617-661-6613 Boston welcomes its first true Brazilian barbecue with open arms; this pampaslike (read: "plain and open spaced"), lively spot serves ten or so different meats (churrasco), which are carved onto your plate and supplemented by an extensive salad bar -- it makes a $15.95 prix fixe that can't be beat; P.S. go famished, because portions are pampas-size. Cuisine: Brazilian, Bar-B-Q. Features: Noteworthy Newcomers Post-Theater/Prix-Fixe F D S C 19 14 19 $18 Casa Portugal /S M 1200 Cambridge St. (Prospect St.), Cambridge, 617-491-8880 U - An all-around winner for big portions of "hearty" stews, salt cod dishes and the like, this Portuguese near Inman Square has a "homey", slightly "seedy" atmosphere brightened by "warm, friendly" owners and modest prices. Cuisine: Portuguese. Features: Fireplaces Late Dining (11:30 AM) Offbeat Sunday Dining (Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 21 10 16 $23 Cajun Yankee 1193 Cambridge St. (near Prospect St.), Cambridge, 617-576-1971 U - Our participants have a love/hate relationship with this Inman Square Cajun "hole-in-the-wall"; the draw is the spicy food, served in big portions; the drawbacks are the hygiene ("bring your own sponge"), sometimes "rude service", "ugly decor", noise and prices; some say it's "living off its reputation." Cuisine: Cajun, Southern/Soul. Features: Offbeat Takeout F D S C 18 14 18 $17 Sunset Cafe /S 851 Cambridge St. (Inman Sq.), Cambridge, 617-547-2938 U - Inman Square's "local Portuguese community diner" specializes in "very tasty", homey fare served in "outlandish portions"; add "terrific people-watching" and "great weekend singalongs in Portuguese", and you've got "excellent value for money"; P.S. the bar will "make you feel old if you're over 25." Cuisine: Portuguese, Spanish. Features: Entertainment (violin-guitar) Offbeat Post-Theater/Prix-Fixe Menu Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout F D S C 17 19 20 $19 Portugalia* 723 Cambridge St. (Portland St.), Cambridge, 617-354-9340 M - This "relatively undiscovered" Inman Square Portuguese is hard to get a handle on; while some have found it "excellent" and "very welcoming", others have encountered "disappointment"; ratings indicate fans are in the majority. Cuisine: Portuguese. Features: Fireplaces Parties Post-Theater/Prix-Fixe Menu Saturday Dining (Brunch, Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch, Lunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access Young Children F D S C -- -- -- I Daddy O's Bohemian Cafe 134 Hampshire St. (bet. Norfolk & Elm Sts.), Cambridge, 617-354-8371 This Spartan Cambridge restaurant puts a lot of heart and soul into its down-to-earth Eclectic fare; there's an interesting selection to choose from, most of which is the type of food your cardiologist warns you about; with its rhythm 'n' blues theme, laid-back service and '60s-style prices, it's a blast from the past. Cuisine: Eclectic. Features: Offbeat F D S C 22 11 16 $16 India Pavilion 17 Central Square (near Mass. Ave.), Cambridge, 617-547-7463 U - A "longtime favorite" for "excellent", "authentic" Indian cuisine, this tiny, crowded Cambridge standby's decor strikes some as "tacky" and the service as sometimes "hostile"; nonetheless, it's unquestionably the "best Indian in town" -- and a great value. Cuisine: Indian. Features: Delivers Parties Saturday Dining (Lunch) Smoking Prohibited Sunday Dining (Dinner) Takeout F D S C 23 11 18 $21 GREEN STREET GRILL /S 280 Green St. (bet. Magazine & Pearl Sts.), Cambridge, 617-876-1655 U - This "great dive" behind Central Square has "innovative", "spectacularly well-prepared" Caribbean food, especially the sausages so hot they can "make your eyes water"; however, most love the burn as much as they do chef John Levins, who is a "sorcerer"; all in all, "the best dump in Cambridge." Cuisine: Caribbean, Mexican/Tex-Mex. Features: Caters Entertainment (jazz - blues) Offbeat Reservations Not Accepted Takeout F D S C 20 13 16 $17 Shalimar of India /S 546 Massachusetts Ave. (Central Sq.), Cambridge, 617-547-9280 U - Its "rich and complicated tastes" make this Central Square Indian "a favorite", even though it can be "uneven"; the "housekeeping needs improving" and service is perfunctory; "ask for the food spicy" and you won't be disappointed. Cuisine: Indian. Features: Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access F D S C 17 15 16 $14 Goemon /S 1 Kendall Square, Bldg. 100 (Hampshire & Cardinal Medeiros Sts.), Cambridge, 617-577-9595 M - At these sleek, Japanese-style noodle shops, you design your own steaming bowl of soup from a long list of ingredients (there are other light Japanese meals, too); the price is right and the concept novel, but service is "erratic." Cuisine: Japanese. Features: Dining Alone Reservations Essential Saturday Dining (Lunch) Senior Appeal Sidewalk Cafes Takeout Wheelchair Access Young Children Other Locations: 267 Huntington Ave. (bet. Massachusetts Ave. & Gainsborough St.), 617-859-8669 F D S C -- -- -- E Blue Room, The 1 Kendall Sq. (Hampshire St. & Broadway.), Cambridge, 617-494-9034 This chic Cambridge newcomer is free 'n' easy with a fun-loving but competent staff; however, owners Stan Frankenthaler (the chef), Chris Schlesinger and Carrie Wheaton (of Cambridge's ever-popular East Coast Grill) are very serious about their ever-changing fresh and delicious International fare that's cooked on an open fire in an open-to-view kitchen; this is a great spot to eat tapas-style, but watch out -- the tab adds up. Cuisine: International. Features: Noteworthy Newcomers F D S C 21 19 20 $23 Buoniconti's 143 First St. (bet. Bent & Rogers Sts.), Cambridge, 617-491-3663 U - This East Cambridge newcomer is a "favorite" for its "very good", moderately priced Contemporary Italian food in a "flea-market chic" room; "service has improved" since opening, and though some say the food is "indifferent" and comes in "tapas-sized portions", most consider it a "winner." Cuisine: Italian (North and South), Italian Nuova Cucina. Features: Delivers Noteworthy Newcomers Parties Private Rooms Sunday Dining (Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 20 10 16 $10 Boca Grande 149 First St. (bet. Bent & Rogers Sts.), Cambridge, 617-354-5550 U - These Mexicans with very low prices are much more than "dressed-up Taco Bells" -- for one thing, they use "top-quality ingredients" in their cooked-to-order food; the drawbacks are no table service and minimal settings. Cuisine: Mexican/Tex-Mex. Features: BYO Wine or Beer Other Locations: 1728 Massachusetts Ave. (bet. Harvard & Porter Sqs.), Cambridge, 617-354-7400 F D S C 24 21 21 $36 MICHELA'S 1 Athenaeum St. (bet. 1st & 2nd Sts.), Cambridge, 617-225-2121 M - This Italian trendsetter, led by the stylish Michela Larson, is "hot, hot, hot" and since chef Jody Adams (ex-Hamersley's) moved to Cambridge, it's sizzling; the "Spartan" decor and noise bother some, and so do the prices in the dining room, but many reviewers call its atrium caf "one of the best deals in the city", and everyone swoons over the delicious food and "great bread." Cuisine: Italian Nuova Cucina. Features: Bar Scenes Business Dining Caters Game in Season "In" Places Parties Private Rooms People-Watching Power Scenes Romantic Sidewalk Cafes Visitors on Expense Accounts Wheelchair Access Winning Wine List F D S C 20 13 16 $17 Shalimar of India /S 546 Massachusetts Ave. (Central Sq.), Cambridge, 617-547-9280 U - Its "rich and complicated tastes" make this Central Square Indian "a favorite", even though it can be "uneven"; the "housekeeping needs improving" and service is perfunctory; "ask for the food spicy" and you won't be disappointed. Cuisine: Indian. Features: Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access F D S C 19 16 17 $22 La Groceria Ristorante Italiano /S M 853 Main St. (Bishop Allen Dr.), Cambridge, 617-497-4214 M - A "lively", "casual" neighborhood spot for "reliable" Italian food; although a few say that it has "gone downhill"; the clear majority goes for its "straightforward and well-executed" menu and crowded-but-fun atmosphere; "an Italian family's family restaurant"; N.B. there may be a wait. Cuisine: Italian (Northern). Features: Caters Delivers Dessert Dining Alone Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 23 15 17 $24 LEGAL SEA FOODS /S M 5 Cambridge Center (Kendall Sq.), Cambridge, 617-864-3400 M - Once again, this seafood chain drew the most comment of any restaurant in the Survey, so it's not surprising that so many complain of "annoyingly overcrowded" and clamorous conditions at its many branches; as for the food, the majority still find it "consistently excellent", "always fresh" and "perfectly prepared"; locals recommend Kendall Square as the best (and calmest) overall; the Copley Square branch is "surprisingly pretty." Cuisine: Seafood. Features: Caters Delivers Health/Spa Menu Hotel Dining (Park Plaza Hotel) Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Lunch) Senior Appeal Sidewalk Cafes Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access Winning Wine List Young Children Other Locations: Park Plaza Hotel, 35 Columbus Ave. (Park Sq.), 617-426-4444 Copley Place, 3rd floor, 100 Huntington Ave. (Dartmouth St.), 617-266-7775 43 Boylston St. (bet. Hammond St. & Hammond Pond Pkwy.), Chestnut Hill, 617-277-7300 Burlington Mall, 1131 Middlesex Tpke. (Rte. 128), Burlington, 617-270-9700 1400 Worcester Rd. (across from Shoppers World), Natick, 508-820-1115 F D S C 20 15 16 $21 Rebecca's /L S M 290 Main St. (Kendall Sq.), Cambridge, 617-494-6688 M - These yuppie take-out gourmet delis -- except for the highly-regarded Charles Street location, which is a proper restaurant -- turn out food that's "uninspired", though often "very good"; the muffins and scones bring a booming breakfast trade, but the "too self-conscious", "too anxious" service doesn't please many; though "a little expensive", they're generally considered "good standbys." Cuisine: Delis, Eclectic. Features: Breakfast Caters Delivers Dessert Dining Alone Game in Season Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Takeout Other Locations: 21 Charles St. (bet. Chestnut & Branch Sts.), 617-742-9747 112 Newbury St. (near Clarendon St.), 617-267-1122 18 Tremont St. (near Government Ctr.), 617-227-0020 56 High St. (bet. Federal & Congress Sts.), 617-951-2422 65 JFK St. (Harvard Sq.), Cambridge, 617-661-8989 F D S C -- -- -- M Florentina Restaurant 143 Main St. (Third St.), Cambridge, 617-577-8300 Long a favorite lunch spot for the Kendall Square neighborhood, this country-style Northern Italian has taken on a supper persona with an ambitious menu that doesn't always hit the mark; due to get better, this is a good I-don't-feel-like-cooking weeknight choice. Cuisine: Italian (Northern). F D S C 17 16 16 $16 Cambridge Sail Loft 1 Memorial Dr. (Kendall Sq.), Cambridge, 617-225-2222 U - These squeaky-clean singles hangouts are "good for lunch", though "after 5 it's preppy paradise"; the "only topsiders allowed" ambiance turns some off, as does the emphasis on fried food, but both locations are popular for good "value" and good views. Cuisine: American (Traditional). Features: Garden/Outdoor Dining "In" Places Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch) Other Locations: Boston Sail Loft 80 Atlantic Ave. (bet. Commercial Wharf & Lewis Wharf), 617-227-7250 F D S C -- -- -- I Miracle of Science 321 Massachusetts Ave. (Central Sq.), Cambridge, 617-868-2866 If you don't have time to leave the lab to eat, you'll feel very comfortable at this MIT-area bar and grill (petri dishes to boot) with its light American fare; a welcome addition to the neighborhood, but don't expect a miracle in food -- just standard, decent fare at down-to-earth prices. Cuisine: American (Traditional). Features: Bar Scenes Noteworthy Newcomers F D S C 16 24 18 $25 SPINNAKER ITALIA Hyatt Regency Hotel, 575 Memorial Dr. (Amesberry St.), Cambridge, 617-492-1234 M - To "take a spin around Boston", head for this "tr Cuisine: Italian (Northern), Italian (North and South). Features: Happy Hour Hotel Dining (Hyatt Cambridge) Parties Reservations Essential Senior Appeal Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 20 19 19 $27 Sally Ling's /S M Hyatt Regency Hotel, 575 Memorial Dr. (Amesberry St.), Cambridge, 617-868-1818 M - Lower ratings suggest that at these "upscale Chinese" "the care and concern seem to be disappearing"; while many voters still find them "classy", a growing group bemoans the "watered-down" cooking, "desultory" service and "high cost/quality ratio"; at least the Cambridge version's "breathtaking views" haven't changed. Cuisine: Chinese. Features: Caters Hotel Dining (Hyatt Cambridge) Jacket/Tie Required Parking/Valet Parties Private Rooms Reservations Essential Sunday Dining (Dinner) Wheelchair Access Other Locations: 10 Langley Rd. (Centre St.), Newton Center, 617-332-3600 F D S C 15 18 16 $25 Jonah's /L S M Hyatt Regency Hotel, 575 Memorial Dr. (bet. Mass. Ave. & B.U. Bridges), Cambridge, 617-492-1234 U - The "decent" though uninspired American-Continental food is pricey at this "pretty" Cambridge Hyatt Regency dining room, but people don't seem to mind -- they report liking the "relaxing brunch", health-conscious dishes and Friday seafood buffet; perhaps this restaurant's name is prophetic. Cuisine: American (Contemporary), Continental, Seafood. Features: Entertainment (jazz piano trio) Happy Hour Health/Spa Menu Hotel Dining (Hyatt Cambridge) Late Dining (11:30 AM) Parties Private Rooms Pre-Theater/Early-Bird Menu Saturday Dining (Lunch) Smoking Prohibited Sunday Dining (Brunch, Lunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 15 18 16 $25 Jonah's /L S M Hyatt Regency Hotel, 575 Memorial Dr. (bet. Mass. Ave. & B.U. Bridges), Cambridge, 617-492-1234 U - The "decent" though uninspired American-Continental food is pricey at this "pretty" Cambridge Hyatt Regency dining room, but people don't seem to mind -- they report liking the "relaxing brunch", health-conscious dishes and Friday seafood buffet; perhaps this restaurant's name is prophetic. Cuisine: American (Contemporary), Continental, Seafood. Features: Entertainment (jazz piano trio) Happy Hour Health/Spa Menu Hotel Dining (Hyatt Cambridge) Late Dining (11:30 AM) Parties Private Rooms Pre-Theater/Early-Bird Menu Saturday Dining (Lunch) Smoking Prohibited Sunday Dining (Brunch, Lunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 18 14 16 $21 La Trattoria /L S M 288 Cambridge St. (near Mass General), 617-227-0211 M - Though a "good neighborhood Italian" for Beacon Hill, this would fare poorly in the North End, say unimpressed non-locals; the "basic" menu is "good, but nothing exceptional" and the room is "too little, too dark and too smoky" to pick up any slack. Cuisine: Italian (North and South). Features: Post-Theater/Prix-Fixe Menu Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access F D S C 10 6 13 $14 Harvard Gardens 310-320 Cambridge St. (bet. Grove & Charles Sts.), 617-523-2727 U - A "grubby standby" where Mass General workers and sports fans en route to or from the Garden get "cheap, decent" hamburgers, this "dark" room "hasn't changed in 30 years"; in sum, it's an "if you're in the immediate vicinity and it's raining" sort of place. Cuisine: Eclectic. Features: Parties Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch) Wheelchair Access F D S C 20 12 18 $17 King & I /S M 145 Charles St. (near Charles Circle), 617-227-3320 U - These two family-run Thais draw crowds for curries and pad thais in simple surroundings, with prices to match; however, what keeps them so popular are the "friendly folk" who make people regard these as the "most charming" Thais in Boston; lunch is recommended. Cuisine: Thai. Features: Parties Private Rooms Sunday Dining (Dinner) Wheelchair Access Other Locations: 259 Newbury St. (Fairfield St.), 617-437-9611 F D S C 12 14 13 $11 Sevens, The 77 Charles St. (bet. Beacon & Cambridge Sts.), 617-523-9074 U - A "great tavern to hang out in", say locals who call this Beacon Hill neighborhooder "the real Cheers", where "Beacon Hill ladies as well as bikers" and "the J. Crew crowd come to forget their troubles"; homemade soup and chili are the highlights -- though the food's not the point here, the French dip sandwich is worth a try. Cuisine: American (Traditional). Features: Bar Scenes Offbeat Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) F D S C 22 20 21 $33 Hungry I /S M 71 1/2 Charles St. (bet. Mt. Vernon & Revere Sts.), 617-227-3524 U - There's "charm galore" at this tiny downstairs Beacon Hill Contemporary American, where good waiters serve "imaginative" game and other dishes to couples who dote on the "quaint", "utterly romantic" atmosphere; a few quibble with the prices. Cuisine: American (Contemporary). Features: Fireplaces Game in Season Garden/Outdoor Dining Parties Romantic Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) F D S C 22 21 21 $34 ANOTHER SEASON /M 97 Mt. Vernon St. (bet. Charles & W. Cedar Sts.), 617-367-0880 U - Chef-owner Odette Bery has kept a loyal clientele coming to her ground-floor Beacon Hill townhouse as much for her restaurant's "romantic", "intimate" rooms with whimsical murals and boiseries that recall Paris as for her "imaginative" French-American food; N.B. parking is "impossible", and there's no valet. Cuisine: Continental. Features: Caters Dining Alone Game in Season Parties Private Rooms Power Scenes Romantic F D S C 24 19 21 $34 RISTORANTE TOSCANO /S M 41 Charles St. (bet. Mt. Vernon & Chestnut Sts.), 617-723-4090 M - The "only authentic Northern Italian in Boston", this Beacon Hill class-act has become a "local favorite" with its "wonderful menu" and "wonderful flavors"; a small number find it "correct but rather boring", but they're outvoted by those who say it's "absolutely fabulous." Cuisine: Italian (Northern). Features: Dining Alone Game in Season Parking/Valet Parties Private Rooms Reservations Essential Romantic Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Dinner) Winning Wine List F D S C 16 13 14 $13 Bel Canto /S M 42 Charles St. (near Chestnut St.), 617-523-5575 M - Its "healthy" pizza with a whole-wheat crust and vegetarian toppings was a fresh idea in the '70s, but now this local chain seems tired, producing comments such as "too much dough, too little topping", "amateurish" service and "last resort for college students"; nevertheless, many people seem willing to settle for fare that's "decent Italian, nothing special." Cuisine: Italian (North and South), Pizza. Features: Garden/Outdoor Dining Parties Private Rooms Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout Teenagers & Other Youthful Spirits Wheelchair Access Young Children Other Locations: Wellesley Center, 92 Central St. (near Weston Rd.), Wellesley, 617-237-2692 1709 Massachusetts Ave. (Lexington Ctr.), Lexington, 617-861-6556 F D S C 24 19 21 $34 RISTORANTE TOSCANO /S M 41 Charles St. (bet. Mt. Vernon & Chestnut Sts.), 617-723-4090 M - The "only authentic Northern Italian in Boston", this Beacon Hill class-act has become a "local favorite" with its "wonderful menu" and "wonderful flavors"; a small number find it "correct but rather boring", but they're outvoted by those who say it's "absolutely fabulous." Cuisine: Italian (Northern). Features: Dining Alone Game in Season Parking/Valet Parties Private Rooms Reservations Essential Romantic Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Dinner) Winning Wine List F D S C 20 15 16 $21 Rebecca's /L S M 21 Charles St. (bet. Chestnut & Branch Sts.), 617-742-9747 M - These yuppie take-out gourmet delis -- except for the highly-regarded Charles Street location, which is a proper restaurant -- turn out food that's "uninspired", though often "very good"; the muffins and scones bring a booming breakfast trade, but the "too self-conscious", "too anxious" service doesn't please many; though "a little expensive", they're generally considered "good standbys." Cuisine: Delis, Eclectic. Features: Breakfast Caters Delivers Dessert Dining Alone Game in Season "In" Places Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Takeout Other Locations: 112 Newbury St. (near Clarendon St.), 617-267-1122 18 Tremont St. (near Government Ctr.), 617-227-0020 56 High St. (bet. Federal & Congress Sts.), 617-951-2422 290 Main St. (Kendall Sq.), Cambridge, 617-494-6688 65 JFK St. (Harvard Sq.), Cambridge, 617-661-8989 F D S C 14 16 13 $16 Bangkok and Hong Kong Cuisine (fka Ahan-Thai) 26 Charles St. (Beacon St.), 617-723-6570 M - A "nice addition to the neighborhood", this Beacon Hill Asian's elaborate decor gets better reactions than its moderately priced Thai and Chinese menu and its service, which can be "sloppy." Cuisine: Chinese, Thai. Features: Fireplaces Parties Saturday Dining (Lunch) Smoking Prohibited Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 18 15 18 $26 Charles Restaurant, The 75 Chestnut St. (bet. Charles & Brimmer Sts.), 617-523-4477 M - This Beacon Hill North End-style Italian is located on a lovely residential street; while naysayers note the dowdy Yankee decor and call it only a "notch above mediocre", others consider it a "great little secret" with "good burgers." Cuisine: Continental, Italian (North and South). Features: Jacket/Tie Required Parking/Valet Reservations Essential Romantic Senior Appeal Sunday Dining (Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access F D S C 18 15 18 $26 Charles Restaurant, The 75 Chestnut St. (bet. Charles & Brimmer Sts.), 617-523-4477 M - This Beacon Hill North End-style Italian is located on a lovely residential street; while naysayers note the dowdy Yankee decor and call it only a "notch above mediocre", others consider it a "great little secret" with "good burgers." Cuisine: Continental, Italian (North and South). Features: Jacket/Tie Required Parking/Valet Reservations Essential Romantic Senior Appeal Sunday Dining (Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access F D S C 14 15 12 $15 Bull & Finch Pub 84 Beacon St. (bet. Arlington & Charles Sts.), 617-227-9608 M - TV fans line up behind velvet ropes to see the original site of "Cheers" -- although this dark basement bar opposite the Public Garden inspired the series, it doesn't look like the set; "disappointed tourists" nevertheless leave carrying yellow bags full of souvenirs, and they sometimes find the burgers "surprisingly good." Cuisine: Hamburgers. Features: Reservations Not Accepted F D S C 18 22 19 $30 Library Grill at Hampshire House /S M (fka Hampshire House) 84 Beacon St. (across from Public Garden), 617-227-9600 M - Much of the crowd at this Classic American, on Beacon Hill by the Public Garden, is drawn by Cheers, the downstairs pub; though respectable, the food upstairs "doesn't compare with prices and atmosphere", which is a shame, because people like the "old-time Boston ambiance" at Sunday brunch. Cuisine: American (Traditional), Continental. Features: Entertainment (piano-bass sing-along) Fireplaces Game in Season Health/Spa Menu Jacket/Tie Required Parking/Valet Parties Private Rooms Romantic Saturday Dining (Lunch) Smoking Prohibited Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 18 22 19 $30 Library Grill at Hampshire House /S M (fka Hampshire House) 84 Beacon St. (across from Public Garden), 617-227-9600 M - Much of the crowd at this Classic American, on Beacon Hill by the Public Garden, is drawn by Cheers, the downstairs pub; though respectable, the food upstairs "doesn't compare with prices and atmosphere", which is a shame, because people like the "old-time Boston ambiance" at Sunday brunch. Cuisine: American (Traditional), Continental. Features: Entertainment (piano-bass sing-along) Fireplaces Game in Season Health/Spa Menu Jacket/Tie Required Parking/Valet Parties Private Rooms Romantic Saturday Dining (Lunch) Smoking Prohibited Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 17 13 14 $13 Cafe Paradiso /S M 627 Commonwealth Ave. (Kenmore Sq.), 617-247-0509 U - Twin Italian cafs, one in the North End and one in Harvard Square, with small mirror-topped tables and "excellent coffee"; though they have sandwiches and salads, they're best for late-night cappuccino, cake and "great" gelato; a new location on Commonwealth Avenue just opened. Cuisine: Coffee Shops, Italian (North and South). Features: Dessert and Ice Cream People-Watching Saturday Dining (Lunch) Senior Appeal Sunday Dining (Dinner) Teenagers & Other Youthful Spirits Young Children Other Locations: 255 Hanover St. (bet. Cross & Richmond Sts.), 617-742-1768 1 Eliot St. (Harvard Sq.), Cambridge, 617-868-3240 F D S C 11 11 13 $14 Aku-Aku 109 Brookline Ave. (bet. Overland St. & Burlington Ave.), 617-536-0420 M - "Bad in college, worse now" is one reaction to the "terrible food" and "tacky decor" at these big Chinese-Polynesian eateries, which are in Cambridge and Kenmore Square but "should be in suburban Indianapolis"; on the plus side, the service is "friendly", and if you like sweet "Polynesian" drinks, this is the place. Cuisine: Chinese, Polynesian. Features: Bar Scenes Caters Delivers Entertainment (comedy) Late Dining (1 AM) Parties Private Rooms Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access Other Locations: 149 Alewife Pkwy. (intersection of Rtes. 2, 3 & 16), Cambridge, 617-491-5377 F D S C -- -- -- I Maluken Japanese Restaurant 645 Beacon St. (Kenmore Sq.), 617-859-3149 A real sleeper that's worth seeking out, this little-known Kenmore/Fenway Park Japanese is a restful place to dine with gracious kimono-clad waitresses, attractive soothing decor, very good food and minimal tabs that won't disrupt your rest. Cuisine: Japanese. Features: Sleepers F D S C 18 16 17 $16 Cornwall's /L S M 510 Commonwealth Ave. (Kenmore Sq.), 617-262-3749 U - A "cozy" English-style pub in Kenmore Square combines an "outstanding beer selection" with ambitious food at reasonable prices; those who go say it's a "great find", especially good before a game at Fenway. Cuisine: Continental. Features: Game in Season Late Dining (1 AM) Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch) Wheelchair Access F D S C 18 8 14 $17 Kebab-N-Kurry /S M 30 Massachusetts Ave. (bet. Beacon & Marlborough Sts.), 617-536-9835 M - Opinion is sharply divided on this "crowded" Indian -- it's either "delicious" or "the worst", with either "extremely slow" or "polite and efficient" service; students like the moderate prices. Cuisine: Indian. Features: Delivers Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Dinner) Takeout F D S C 12 11 13 $18 Newbury Steak House /L S M 94 Massachusetts Ave. (bet. Newbury St. & Commonwealth Ave.), 617-536-0184 M - "How does it survive?"; this "relic" of a Back Bay steak house strikes most respondents as "pathetic", with "tough looks" from the wait staff and "tough tastes" on the plate, not to mention "cramped booths" and a "too-dark atmosphere"; the only explanation is that it's cheap, convenient, highly visible and evokes "memories of college." Cuisine: American (Traditional), Steakhouses. Features: Parties Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) F D S C -- -- -- E Capital Grille (fka Fynn's) 359 Newbury St. (Massachusetts Ave.), 617-262-8900 Formerly Fynn's, this spin-off of a popular Providence standby is strictly meat-and-potatoes; this professionally run spot has taken Boston by storm with its succulent steaks, prime beef and extensive wine list; the handsome men's club brass-and-mahogany decor and high-ish prices attract a suit-wearing expense-account crowd. Cuisine: American (Traditional). Features: Business Dining Noteworthy Newcomers Visitors on Expense Accounts Winning Wine List F D S C 22 13 18 $16 Bangkok Cuisine /S M 177A Massachusetts Ave. (near Christian Science Ctr. & Berklee College of Music), 617-262-5377 U - Boston's No. 2 Thai, convenient to Symphony Hall and Berklee College of Music, keeps patrons coming back to its long, narrow room with "unmemorable" decor for "superior pad Thai" as well as coconut soup, curry dishes and spring rolls; the frustratingly slow pre-concert service is said to have improved. Cuisine: Thai. Features: Offbeat Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout F D S C 17 14 13 $16 Division Sixteen /L S M 955 Boylston St. (bet. Hereford St. & Mass. Ave.), 617-353-0870 U - The "sexual energy and food don't mix" for some at this "noisy" Back Bay meet-market in a former police station, but many respondents love the burgers, nachos and buffalo wings, all served in "mammoth quantities"; service can be "non-existent", but fans still consider the place "fun"; delivery service, with their fleet of trucks, is amazingly efficient. Cuisine: Eclectic. Features: Bar Scenes Delivers "In" Places Late Dining (1:30 AM) Offbeat Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access 19 19 19 $29 Boodle's of Boston /S M Back Bay Hilton, 40 Dalton St. (bet. Boylston St. & Huntington Ave.), 617-266-3537 U - You can choose the kind of wood your steaks and fish are grilled on at this "reliable" restaurant in the Back Bay Hilton, near Symphony Hall; some find it expensive and touristy, but most enjoy the well-spaced tables; "great steaks, no yuppies." Cuisine: American (Contemporary), Grills. Features: Breakfast Hotel Dining (Back Bay Hilton) Parties Private Rooms Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 16 20 15 $19 Cactus Club /L S 939 Boylston St. (bet. Gloucester & Hereford Sts.), 617-236-0200 M - Back Bay "yuppie" bar that's a "frat party with a Tex-Mex theme"; the nachos, fajitas and so on, even if they come in "huge portions", generate few raves -- the exuberant Santa Fe-inspired decor, including a smoking stuffed buffalo, is "the best thing about this place." Cuisine: Southwestern. Features: Bar Scenes Caters Fireplaces Garden/Outdoor Dining Health/Spa Menu "In" Places Parking/Valet Parties People-Watching Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Brunch, Lunch) Sidewalk Cafes Sunday Dining (Brunch, Lunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 16 14 16 $25 Mass Bay Company /S M Sheraton Boston Hotel and Towers, 39 Dalton St. (bet. Boylston St. & Huntington Ave.), 617-236-8787 M - Drooping ratings suggest that this Sheraton seafooder with a natty nautical setting has lost its way; once fashionable, it has "become too expensive" and the food has reportedly turned "mundane"; while you can still "make a meal out of the bread and chowder", nothing about this place inspires our surveyors. Cuisine: Seafood. Features: Business Dining Hotel Dining (Sheraton Boston Hotel) Senior Appeal Sunday Dining (Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 20 20 19 $23 Casa Romero /M 30 Gloucester St. (bet. Commonwealth Ave. & Newbury St.), 617-536-4341 M - Many preferred this long-popular, upscale, "cozy" Back Bay Mexican before it changed hands; now there are complaints that the food is "inconsistent" and overpriced; it does, regardless, have a charming courtyard and ratings that argue for giving it a try. Cuisine: Mexican/Tex-Mex. Features: Fireplaces Romantic Sunday Dining (Dinner) F D S C 23 19 20 $28 DAVIO'S /S M 269 Newbury St. (bet. Fairfield & Gloucester Sts.), 617-262-4810 U - An extremely popular pair of Nuova Cucina Italians in Back Bay and Brookline Village with a new addition in Cambridge, these siblings win praise for their consistency and "classy settings"; most diners prefer the Brookline location, but recommend the upstairs caf on Newbury Street for good, quick pizzas at moderate prices; service can be slow. Cuisine: Italian Nuova Cucina. Features: Bar Scenes Delivers Dessert Game in Season Hotel Dining (Hotel Sonesta) "In" Places Parking/Valet Parties Private Rooms Romantic Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sidewalk Cafes Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout Wheelchair Access Other Locations: Hotel Sonesta, 5 Cambridge Pkwy. (across from Cambridgeside Galleria), Cambridge, 617-661-4810 202 Washington St. (off Rte. 9), Brookline, 617-738-4810 F D S C 11 10 13 $14 Acapulco /S M 266 Newbury St. (bet. Fairfield & Gloucester Sts.), 617-247-9126 M - Our reviewers say this simple Mexican standby offers "basic, satisfactory food" at low prices and that there's good people-watching on Newbury Street; however, service by "spaced-out" students and "bland" food produce few ols. Cuisine: Mexican/Tex-Mex. Features: Delivers Reservations Not Accepted Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sidewalk Cafes Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) F D S C 20 12 18 $17 King & I /S M 259 Newbury St. (Fairfield St.), 617-437-9611 U - These two family-run Thais draw crowds for curries and pad thais in simple surroundings, with prices to match; however, what keeps them so popular are the "friendly folk" who make people regard these as the "most charming" Thais in Boston; lunch is recommended. Cuisine: Thai. Features: Parties Private Rooms Sunday Dining (Dinner) Wheelchair Access Other Locations: 145 Charles St. (near Charles Circle), 617-227-3320 F D S C -- -- -- I La Famiglia Plus 250 Newbury St. (bet. Gloucester & Fairfield Sts.), 617-247-1569 Tourists willingly wait at these red-and-white checked tablecloth Italo-Americans for mammoth portions of red-sauce family-style fare -- they're not the best around nor the worst, but with recession-proof prices and treat-you-like-family service -- who needs to go to Italy? Cuisine: Italian (Southern). Features: Senior Appeal Young Children Other Locations: La Famiglia Ristorante 112 Salem St. (near Parmenter St.), 617-367-6711 F D S C 17 17 15 $25 Ciaobella /L S M 240A Newbury St. (Fairfield St.), 617-536-2626 M - While no longer as fashionable, this Newbury Street Northern Italian with its outdoor dining and its stab at a European ambiance remains crowded; "occasionally the food can be very good", but many find it "inconsistent", "bland" and overpriced. Cuisine: Italian (Northern). Features: Game in Season Garden/Outdoor Dining "In" Places Parking/Valet Reservations Essential Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) F D S C 24 18 19 $24 GYUHAMA /L S M 827 Boylston St. (bet. Gloucester & Fairfield Sts.), 617-437-0188 U - Boston's Top Japanese specializes in the "best sushi" and "freshest sashimi" in town; the decor at the Back Bay basement is functional, if less than exceptional, and the service is "sometimes not attentive", but that doesn't concern the sushi addicts who come in droves; the "in" spot for late-night sushi and rock 'n' roll. Cuisine: Japanese. Features: Business Dining Late Dining (2 AM) Parties Private Rooms Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout F D S C 15 15 16 $17 J.C. Hillary's Ltd. /S M 793 Boylston St. (near Fairfield St.), 617-536-6300 M - Outposts of an anonymous, cheerful fern-bar chain, these spots are fine for "good burgers" and popular "light items" that make reliably quick lunches at moderate prices; detractors complain there's "no substance", but most think they're "good for what they are"; the Woburn location is considered the best. Cuisine: American (Traditional), American (Contemporary). Features: Delivers Happy Hour Late Dining (12 AM) Parking/Valet Saturday Dining (Lunch) Sunday Dining (Brunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access Other Locations: 985 Providence Hwy. (Rte. 1 So.), Dedham, 617-329-0800 311 Mishawum Rd. (near Rte. 95), Woburn, 617-935-7200 55 Boston Post Rd. (Rte. 20W at Old Connecticut Path), Wayland, 508-358-5124 F D S C 15 15 15 $19 Atlantic Fish Company /S M 777 Boylston St. (bet. Exeter & Fairfield Sts.), 617-267-4000 M - A formula seafood house with moderate prices, this spot has survived its location near the convention center, is pleasant for sidewalk dining in good weather and has a locally acclaimed pianist at the bar upstairs; otherwise, it's just "middle of the road", best if you "stick to the basics." Cuisine: Seafood. Features: Garden/Outdoor Dining Health/Spa Menu Parking/Valet Saturday Dining (Brunch, Lunch) Smoking Prohibited Sunday Dining (Brunch, Lunch, Dinner) Wheelchair Access F D S C 16 12 13 $16 Stage Deli /S 725 Boylston St. (bet. Exeter & Fairfield Sts.), 617-859-9747 M - The addition of a Harvard Street location results from the success of the Tremont and Bolyston branches of the famous New York deli, but success is a relative thing -- Bostonians who haven't had better sing its praises, but the rest consider it proof that "NY delis don't travel well." Cuisine: Delis, Jewish. Features: Breakfast Caters Dessert Dining Alone Parties Saturday Dining (Lunch) Senior Appeal Sunday Dining (Lunch, Dinner) Takeout Teenagers & Other Youthful Spirits Wheelchair Access Young Children Other Locations: 275 Tremont St. (near Stuart St.), 617-523-3354 335 Harvard St. (Babcock St.), Brookline, 617-731-2828