Fresh
Leave the hubub of Newbury Street behind as you step downstairs into this olfactory paradise. Having a bad day? Pick up a bar of bergamot-scented soap to restore your spirits. Looking for a little something to bring your in-laws? Fresh's stylishly packaged gifts are light years ahead of the other shrink-wrapped varieties. 121 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Russo's
Gourmet purveyors offering just five perfect pears tagged at $5 apiece are all well and good, but we prefer this veggie Valhalla, where fresh fennel and pluots are piled alongside everyday cooking staples. 560 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA russos.com.
The Tannery
Whether you're lacing up for work or a workout, the Tannery has your soles covered. The vast selection of footwear encompasses most makes—Clarks, Sperry, Converse—and models—wingtips, boat shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals. 711 Boylston St., Boston, MA thetannery.com.
Thom Brown
From high-heeled sparkle jellies to earthy crunchy sandals, this shop is the place where feet get happy. Both men's and women's styles. Particularly strong in boots and funky sneakers. 331 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Barneys New York
If you're past the age of 30, Barneys' exaggerated shoes styles may look like orthopedic gear. But for cutting-edge footwear, names like Robert Clergerie, Accessoir, and Freelance are the very definition of au courant. The Mall at Chestnut Hill, 199 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill, MA .
Windsor Button Stores
When you've lost your buttons or the buckle on your trenchcoat, Windsor is still the best place to look for a replacement. The selection of buttons, thread, trims, and other sewing supplies is staggering. 35 Temple Place, Boston, MA .
Fishelon Florist
If it's green and grows, you'll probably find it here: an Eden of house plants and cut flowers. If they don't have what a customer is looking for, the owners are happy to special order it. 23 Charles St., Boston, MA .
Wang Laboratories, the hardware giant turned midsize software manufacturer.
Just when it looked like the ball game was over, Wang emerged from bankruptcy, auctioned off its signature towers for a song, and, miracle of miracles, began turning a profit.
"The Blooming of Bird"
"The Blooming of Bird," Globe sportswriter Bob Ryan profiles Larry Bird in Globe magazine. Tells readers to look for new biography of Bird, written by Globe sportswriter Ryan.
Jake's Ribs
Great ribs in cold roast Boston? You bet. Just look for Kenton "Jake" Jacobs in the big orange trailer parked on Talbot Street every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night—until midnight or as long as the ribs last. about a quarter mile from Blue Hill Ave. on Talbot St., Roxbury, MA .
Bread & Circus
Why is it that people who work in "health food" places look a if they're about to keel over? They probably don't drink and smoke enough. But the meat counter here will tempt the most devout vegetarian. 916 Walnut St., Newton, MA .
The Opera Company of Boston's performance of Puccini's <em>La Bohème</em>
Just when the future of the Opera Company could hardly look bleaker, Sarah Caldwell came through with her finest direction. Suddenly, people remembered why it is so important to keep the OCB alive.
Moody's Delicatessen & Provisions
Hold the James River barbecue sauce, American cheese, and extra mayo. Accented by horseradish crema, fontina, and onion marmalade, Moody's slow-cooked-beef sando may not be traditional, but it sure is tasty. 468 Moody St., Waltham, MA 02453, moodyswaltham.com.
Newbury Boston
Looking for picturesque views to go with your room-service breakfast and Frette robe? Touch down at the Newbury Boston, where the sparkling-new rooms overlook the Public Garden and the Common. One Newbury St., Boston, MA 02116, thenewburyboston.com.
B & G Oysters
An order of the fried Ipswich clams comprises two heaping piles—one of plump bivalves, and the other of twice-cooked, almost caramelized French fries. Follow our lead and generously dunk both in the house-made, lemon-aioli-based tartar sauce. 550 Tremont St., Boston, MA 02116, bandgoysters.com.