Limelight
There are two kinds of karaoke-goers: traditionalists "just in it for the music" and Axl-style mike hogs. Limelight suits both. More than 5,000 songs provide variety, and an always appreciative, largely tipsy audience supplies the right amount of Idol-esque egging on. (Those suffering from stage fright can "Sweet Child o' Mine" it up in private studios modeled on clubs in Tokyo, where subtitled singing is practically a professional sport.) The food may be greasy and the drinks can be weak, but never having to share stage time with "Sister Christian"-loving frat boys is more than a fair exchange. 204 Tremont St., Boston, MA limelightboston.com.
Artepicure
Armed with the diplomacy and precision that come only from years of European-training—and a tricked-out kitchen sporting the latest sous vide accoutrements—chef Mark DesLauriers helps novices and gourmets alike sidle up to the stove with confidence. New this year: couples’ cooking classes ($170 per duo) on Friday evenings. Woo that special someone over a meal of roast duck breast with warm shallot dressing, red-wine-braised duck leg and pan-seared foie gras with vegetables roasted in duck fat, and chocolate pot de crème. One Fitchburg St., Somerville, MA 2143, artepicure.com.
Manny Ramirez
His slugging kept the BoSox neck-and-neck with the heated Yanks through early summer... even with Nomar on the DL.
National Jean Company
This suburban denim depot was long overdue for a city location, and its sophisticated Newbury Street storefront was well worth the wait. Browse five pockets from J Brand and DL1961; premium selvage denim; and tops, dresses, and accessories from a slew of other brands. 218 Newbury St., Boston, MA njcboston.com.
The "Rescued" Red Sox Banner
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Photo by David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images[/caption]
“We need to negotiate heah,” said Louie Iacuzzi in an epic pseudo-ransom video after he and James Amaral found a lost Sox banner. They got squat, but we got a good, hearty laugh.
Bud's Goods & Provisions
Bud's Goods & Provisions. It feels like home walking into Bud’s Goods in Watertown, and that’s just what was intended. The theme of the dispensary’s third and latest location is home, after all, bringing the customer on a journey from the store’s porch (ID check) through the pantry (edibles, anyone?) and ending in the grand room for checkout. But it’s the library that lures us in, with charming New England tchotchkes on curated shelves and undulating brass pendants spotlighting the custom-built display case filled with high-quality flower. The selection stuns, too, from classic pre-rolls to hazelnut espresso bonbons and grapefruit rosemary tonic. Worcester, Abington, and Watertown, budsgoods.com.