Simco's
Photo by Jesse Burke There's no seating at this Mattapan institution, so after ordering at the window, be prepared to tear into your thin, footlong dog—slathered with chili, onions, and mustard and wedged into a hot, buttered-then-griddled bun—right there on the street (or, if you have the self-restraint, back in your car). 1509 Blue Hill Ave., Mattapan, MA .
Turner Fisheries
A more self-consciously trendy restaurant than Turner Fisheries might call this a deconstructed buffet: Solicitous staffers bring to your table two apps, an entrée, side, dessert, and adult libation. Your in-laws won't even miss the omelet station. 10 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA 2116, turnersboston.com.
Indra Salon
Photograph courtesy of Indra Salon Cut, color, wax, polish, massage—this sleek hideaway can do it all, whether you’re looking for a simple blowout for your next dinner party or a full-on beauty transformation. Whatever services you select, you’ll be treated to a highly personalized experience that will leave you looking (and feeling) your very best. 8 Main St., Andover, MA 1810, indrasalon.com.
Brad Duncan, Brad Duncan Skin Care
Brad Duncan’s laid-back demeanor puts you at ease, while his gentle holistic approach revives your tired physiognomy. He’ll give expert suggestions on how to keep your skin healthy and fresh for years to come without the uncomfortable product push you get in most spas and salons. 530 Tremont St., Boston, MA 2116, bradduncanskincare.com.
The Altered Bride
We all know it: Accessories make or break an outfit. It's as true on your wedding day as it is on a Saturday night out. Which is why the Altered Bride has a huge assortment of veils, tiaras, gloves, wraps, and shoes in styles to suit almost every taste—and to accent your dream gown with the pretty panache it deserves. 376 Boylston St., Boston, MA .
Vizio Optic
Regardless of your spectacle tendencies—quirky or clean—Brookline's Vizio Optic will identify the most flattering frames for your face, then present you with options: Chanel, Beausoleil, and Ray-Ban are just a few of the brands carried. An optician on site guarantees that you'll soon be seeing—and looking—much better. 11 Harvard St., Brookline, MA viziooptic.com.
Appetito
The Sunday brunch buffet at Appetito is to die for, with scrumptious eggs benedict, fluffy muffins, and perfectly seasoned homefries. Alas, eating any of it is out of the question: Everyone's checking out the tautness of your abs and the number of fat grams piled on your plate. Stick, good sirs, to the fruit. 1 Appleton St., Boston, MA .
Constitution Marina
Dock your boat, park your dinghy at no extra charge, fish for striped bass around the corner, and best of all, swim in Constitution Marina's new outdoor pool. One added perk that makes this the best deal in town—free parking for boat-owners. 28 Constitution Road, Charlestown, MA .
Teuscher
Ever wonder why the church once outlawed chocolate as too sensual? Airlifted weekly from the little chocolate gnomes in Zurich, delectable with the finest cream, butter, and milk chocolate, these are the kind of chocolates you eat so slowly that they melt in your hand long before they get to your mouth. 230 Newbury St., Boston, MA .
Galleria Italiana
By day it's a fast-food Italian eatery, but four nights a week Galleria Italiana is transformed into a trattoria, complete with background opera music and an Abruzzi-inspired menu. Try the risotto with spinach and four cheeses or the pasta with tiny mussels from New Zealand. 177 Tremont St., Boston, MA .
Baker's Best
Fabulous chicken (the piccata is especially wonderful), great veggie pizzas and calzones, and some of the best Caesar salad we've ever had. They'll even cater your weekend party, or—chicken soup to shank bone—your Passover Seder. 27 Lincoln St., Newton Highlands, MA .
The Rooftop Pool at the Colonnade Hotel
If summer finds you in the city instead of on the Vineyard, console yourself with a noon swim at the Colonnade's rooftop pool, then have lunch and work on your tan. For $20 you get use of the pool, towels, and a changing room, plus a light salad or sandwich. Bring your own sunscreen. 120 Huntington Ave., Boston, MA .
Continental Café
Garlic soup at the Continental Café (the Portuguese half), 445 Somerville St., Somerville. This pungent broth, supporting croutons and a perfectly poached egg, is strong enough to clear your sinuses but subtle enough so that it won't leave your close friends gasping. 445 Sommerville Ave., Somerville, MA .
Brick Cellar at Atria
Estonian beer, caipirinhas with a citrus twist—this swanky underground bar is not your typical Vineyard watering hole. The drinks are fun, the atmosphereis cozy and intimate, and the food (including 10 different burgers) is tasty. Don't miss the photo booth on your way out. 137 Main St., Edgartown, MA atriamv.com.
Interlocks
The stylists at Interlocks don't just cut your hair. They teach you how to maintain the style, and which products to use to keep your tresses looking salon-perfect long after you've left the chair. And with an adjacent full spa, this is a one-stop shop for hair, nail, and body needs. 58 Merrimac St., Newburyport, MA interlockssalon.com.