Wingo
The Boston Herald goes bingo. And don't tell us you don't check your card every morning.
Dakota's
Good food, fancy-schmancy marble and brass decor, and tables far enough apart that nobody knows your business. 34 Summer Street, Boston, MA .
The Sunet Grill and Tap
At least 40 varieties on tap and 200 in bottles, most from microbreweries, make the Sunset the place to wet your whistle. 130 Brighton Avenue, Allston, MA .
Julien Restaurant, the Meridien Hotel
Soft piano music and low lights make this your best bet that a first date will lead to a second. 250 Franklin St., Boston, MA .
The Bay Tower Room
Surrounded by the swankiest view in town, your companion won't notice the unexciting food until the second time around. 60 State St., Boston, MA .
Grill 23 & Bar
Used to be the lobby of the Salada Tea Building. Now it's a fine, though expensive, steak house. 161 Berkeley St., Boston, MA .
Chef Chang's
The chef himself carves it at your table. Don't be disconcerted by the fact that it arrives with its head still on. 1006 Beacon St., Brookline, MA .
Apley's
The bucks the chain poured into this showcase continue to pay off. A blend of nouvelle and richesse, Apley's wins for the second straight year. Sheraton-Boston Hotel, 39 Dalton St., Boston, MA .
Joe Shea, at the Black Rose
Shea works the day shift during the week, and pours the best Guinness in town. Friendly, listens well. 160 State St., Boston, MA .
Malben's
A gourmet deli that pours a special cup each day: Colombian, French roast, almondine, etc. Takeout only. 378 Boylston St., Boston, MA .
Brattle Square
Jugglers, street singers, storytellers, and musicians. All now competing for your attention with the construction of the MBTA's Red Line extension. Cambridge, MA
David Godine Press
In a world of quickie books and runaway cost-cutting, Godine remains one of the few houses with a commitment to uncompromised quality. 51 Sleeper St., Boston, MA .
Charley's Eating and Drinking Saloon
A side of some of the best fries in town. The chefs will cook it to your taste. Bartley's Burger Cottage in Cambridge runs a close second. Boston, MA
The Somerville Theater
Good movies in a good house. That's why folks are demonstrating to save it. Long may it endure. Davis Square, Somerville, MA .
Al Halliday and the Hurricanes
Dynamic and powerful. The Hurricanes' "I Can See Forever in Your Eyes" may be the year's best single cut by a local group.