This piece also appeared in The Homesteader

While it may take longer to say “The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations” (which is the state’s official name) than it is to drive through it. Rhode Island punches well above its weight class in many divisions. In addition to being the world HQ for such international juggernauts as CVS, GTECH, Hasbro (see sidebar), Narragansett Brewing Co. (and over a dozen other breweries), and Textron, it is also the home of Brown University, RI School of Design (aka, RISD) and the original campus of Johnson & Wales University, all of which add to the breadth and depth of intellectual, creative, and culinary clout of the first state to declare independence and still one of the most independent states in the union.

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When a place makes its mark in a neighborhood, it can be hard to say goodbye.

Fortunately, for those who loved Sonny’s in Dorchester’s Adams Village, the name and menu have changed, but the welcoming food and familial vibe have remained in the new incarnation known as The Industry (http://theindustryonadams.com).
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While Lizzie Borden may have used hers for matricide, perhaps the most famous ax in Boston is that of (in)famous Temperance leader Carrie Nation. Combining tight morals and loose-fitting clothes, Ms. Nation wielded a weapon that wrecked many a good time.

Perhaps ironically, it is her name that now appears on one of the most fun drinking and dining establishments in Boston!

Located steps away from the State House (the source of Prohibition in the Commonwealth), Carrie Nation Cocktail Club (www.carrienationcocktailclub.com) is a perfect place for legislators, lobbyists, lawyers, and even lovers (or those who want to be such) to linger and lounge while enjoying delicious food, delicious drinks, and perhaps a bit of delicious debauchery.

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As more and more companies pour into the 128 corridor in Waltham, the hospitality industry has being working overtime to handle the traffic.  From new eateries like Whole House Group’s family-friendly Flank to suburban outposts of Bonefish Grill, Posto and Ruth’s Chris, the area is getting to be known for much more than a highway-side Market Basket. While the hotel scene also strives to keep pace, one rentable residence offers the best of both worlds, having tucked into its lower corner a hotel restaurant that is well worth a visit even if you do not intend to stay.

With its tap-laden bar and beer-inspired décor, Copper House Tavern (http://copperhousetavern.com) in the Best Western may appear at first like an after work bar. And it is that- with over 40 craft beers that are conveniently organized by type (e.g., IPA, Pilsner, Belgian-style, cider, etc.) and available in flights so guests can find new favorites all the time, as well as glasses and bottles of wine from near and far, entire menus of Bourbon, Whiskey, Scotch Tequila, Port, and Cognac, and craft cocktails that range from a signature Tito’s vodka-based Kicking Mule to a tantalizingly tasty cinnamon-spiced cranberry whiskey sour to seasonal selections and a handcrafted Sangria.

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While there is nothing like scarfing down a pretzel and souvenir cup soda at Gillette Stadium or tailgating with friends outside, many savvy fans know that the best place to eat before the game (or even if there is no game) is Davio’s (www.daviois.com).

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Though it has been many years since I lived anywhere near the South End, I have recently found another reason (other than my long-time fave, Tremont 647) to head back to the old neighborhood. 

Frenchie (www.frenchieboston.com) is a new twist on classic French cuisine that is authentically, beautifully, and deliciously pulled off by French natives Sandrine Rossi and Loic Le Garrec (who, as may not surprise anyone who loves good French food with flair, also runs Petit Robert Bistro).

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As I was a music writer before I was a food journalist, I have a long and storied history with the Charles Hotel and its world-famous Regattabar. Many has been the night when I would enjoy an evening repast at one of the Hotel’s many fine dining establishments and then head to the second floor to catch a legend close up and personal.

So you can imagine my dismay when I learned that Jody Adams’ equally legendary Rialto was moving out and how worried I was that its successor would not live up to its reputation or classy deliciousness.

I need not have worried!

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With its famous Mall and other assorted shopping centers, Burlington has more than its share of places to grab a bite between stores. If you are looking for a high-quality, reasonably-priced meal, however, the options are more limited but you can use this interactive wayfinding to find other options available around the area. Among them is Chopps (www.choppsamericanbarandgrill.com), the restaurant in the Marriott Burlington that is overseen by Boston Harbor Hotel Chef and Boston Wine Festival organizer Consulting Chef Daniel Bruce and Executive Chef Stefano “Steve” Zimei and that is also quickly becoming a favorite for hotel guests, locals, and many others.

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For those who miss Po’Boys in Newton and those who may not have the time to luxuriate in a repast at Chef Jason Santos’ new Buttermilk and Bourbon, there is now a N’awlins flavor source that can literally come to you!

Revelry Nawlins Cuisine (www.revelryboston.com) is one of the latest and most follow-worthy food trucks on the burgeoning Boston scene. More than just Southern, this authentic Crescent City carrier offers everything from Barq;s root beer, Zapp’s potato chips, and legendary Leidenheimer bread (which is dern hard to find outside of the Big Easy) to Crystal Hot Sauce and Zatarain’s spices.

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