Happy Hour at it's Best: Back Bay Social Club

If you have yet to make your way to the Back Bay Social Club, we suggest you try them out. Just 8 months since their opening, they already have a large group of dedicated regulars who talk up the place just as much as they do. Their burger is arguably one of the best in town, and the Harvey Wallbanger is very popular amongst the young crowd of professionals: Variation Rain Vodka, Prosecco, Fresh Orange Juice & Gallian.

If you feel like getting a bit more rowdy then your usual after work scene, head downstairs to the chic lounge. The ambiance is a bit old Hollywood. With the dark lighting and strong drinks, Back Bay Social Club makes any evening feel like a Saturday night out.

HINT: With Spring around the corner, the front glass walls open and create the perfect outdoor spot for cocktails, bites, & people watching.

Phone: 617-247-3200

867 Boylston Street

Boston, MA 02166

ZUZU - Dance on Tuesday

7 days a week, ZuZu always promises a good time. With live music and DJ's from far and wide, an eclectic and fun crowd will never disappoint. They serve an array of great cocktails, and we suggest trying the ZuZu PuPu Platter to start off the night right: Grape leaves, Spinach Dumplings, Empanadas, Brik, Kibbeh Mishi, with choice of Chicken, Lamb, or beef kababs. Hummus, baba ganooj, harissa $ whipped garlic.

HINT: ZuZu hosts possibly the best dance party in Boston every Tuesday evening from 9:00PM on! You are in Cambridge, so $2.00 PBR's are always on the menu.

Phone: 617-864-3278

474 Massachusetts Avenue

Cambridge, MA 02139

Neighborhood Watch - Ice Skating, Coffee & Art in Kendall Square!

Most Bostonians have ice-skated and fallen on The Boston Commons Frog Pond at some point in their lives. However more recently, we discovered Kendall Squares Community Ice-Skating Rink! Although the rink is not quite as large as the Frog Pond, we prefer Kendall's rink for several reasons. The rink is less crowded, the rental skates are new, and the music is far better!

When your fingers are numb, warm up at Voltage Coffee & Art. Just a short walk from the rink, Voltage offers a unique and hip experience. From tea sandwiches, to ants on a log, they serve the best in little bites. Voltage offers 9 varieties of Exotic Latte Flavors. Try the Madame X: Earl Grey infused White Chocolate Ganache. Hope you enjoy these hidden gems, we certainly did minus taking a spill on the ice:)

HINT: Did we mention the Art Gallery at Voltage is kick-ass?

Tremont647 & Sister Sorel $45 5 Course Tasting Menu and $2 Tacos!

If you are looking for the best of both worlds in drinking and dining, then Tremont647 and Sister Sorel is the spot for you! Open candelabras, filthy martinis, intimate seating and very friendly regulars makes Sister Sorel a great spot for pre-dinner drinks! In the dead of winter, no need to run out to the cold to make your dinner reservation. Connected through the bar, take a step into Chef Andy Husbands Tremont647. The restaurant menu features one of our favorites: a Greek Style Wood Grilled Ahi Tuna Salad $19.

You might also enjoy the $2.00 Taco Tuesday night. The Livin’ La Vida Coco $10.50: featuring a house infused Pineapple vodka, Bacardi rum, Coco Lopez, Pineapple juice & a Meyer’s float all served in a pineapple (took us back to our Spring Break days, ahhh.)

HINT: Try the Chefs 5 Course Tasting menu for just $45.00. We aren't joking, it is one of the best deals in town!

Phone: 617-266-4600
647 Tremont Street
Boston, MA 02118

OM - Ambiance, Asian Fusion, and more!

Looking for something different in Harvard Square? Look no further than Om. Featuring authentic artwork and artifacts from Nepal, Tibet and Thailand, Om is worth a visit for the magnificent decor alone. However, that didn't stop us from ordering our fair share from the enticing Asian fusion inspired menu. We started with the warm roasted locally grown pear salad complimented perfectly with spiced pumpkin seeds and a delicious sweet ginger vinaigrette dressing. Be sure not to miss their signature app which is an order of Momos, or Tibetan style steamed dumplings. We tried all three flavors, beef, pork and vegetable which are served with soy sake and sweet chili sauces.

We also loved the Chinese BBQ Tofu, served crispy with Chinese broccoli and Himalayan red rice; and the Lamb Ribs which are sweet and spicy, served with crumbled cashews and a cool cucumber salad.

HINT: Try one of Om's "aromatherapy" cocktails, a hot new trend in mixology, which are infused with lavender, jasmine, lemongrass and rose. We had the Purple Rain, essentially a mojito with fresh lime, mint, blackberries and a hint of lavender. Yes, it is as good as it sounds.

Phone: 617.576.2800
92 Winthrop Street
Cambridge, MA 02183

Written by Guest Blogger: Kurt Stiegel

Get at him: kstieg1@gmail.com

Greek Food Festival this weekend!

Every September, we look forward to the Saint John Baptist Hellenic Orthodox Church Greek Festival! This Friday, September 17th through Sunday September 19th, enjoy homemade traditional Greek cuisine and pastries. Saturday night includes live music, and the entire weekend hosts indoor and outdoor seating!

HINT: Go for the Gyro, and ask a Greek how to pronounce it correctly:) For dessert, order the Loukoumades (Greek Honey Dumplings), although these tend to sell out fast!

Phone: 617-536-5692

15 Union Park Street

Boston, MA 02118

Hungry Mother - The Ultimate Neighborhood Restaurant!

It took us a while, but we finally tried Hungry Mother in Cambridge. The reason for the buzz around the streets would be: Chef Barry Maiden. Maiden was named Best New Chef of Food & Wine Magazine in 2009 and has continued to create new and original items for the HM menu.

Our favorites included The Salmon Croquettes and French Gnocchi. The atmosphere is very cozy, simple, chic with vintage accents throughout. They also offer a extensive cocktail and whiskey list. Some liquors will not be arriving until Winter and are guaranteed to be rarities that you will not find in many parts of the U.S.

HINT: Although a great place for dinner, the late night bar scene is just perfect. Fabulous drinks, great bar menu, and friendly neighbors!

Phone: 617-499-0090

233 Cardinal Medeiros Avenue

Cambridge, MA 02141

Brimfield Vintage/Antique Show

Yesterday we ventured out to the Brimfield show, going on now through September 12th. About an hour away from Boston, one of the largest vintage shows around takes over several acres of land in Brimfield, MA. You will find everything from vintage jewelry, bags and clothing, to furniture, decorative home accents and much more!

After 4 hours of walking around, we had not seen it all. The town of Brimfield is home to many great Vintage and Antique stores. The fair grounds are also a short ride to good old Sturbridge Village where many Bostonians were once dragged to on a school field trip. This is an all day adventure, and one that we highly recommend. Happy Shopping!

HINT: You will most likely be browsing between celebrities and buyers from Bloomies! Although we weren't lucky enough to spot anyone yesterday, we did return home with a vintage Fendi and Louis Vuitton and lots of fabulous jewelry! GOOD LUCK!

Phone: 800-628-8379

23 Main Street

Brimfield, MA 01010

Eat your heart out - Breakheart Reservation

Breakheart Reservation is just 15 minutes outside of the city, although you will feel like you are in the Berkshires. With over a dozen hiking trails, a huge open lake for swimming, rock climbing, fishing, biking, and more, it would be easy to spend an entire weekend on the grounds!

HINT: Don't forget to bring a picnic and grab your furry friend, Breakheart Reservation is Pet Friendly!

Phone: 781-233-0834

177 Forest Street

Saugus, MA 01906

Sowa Sundays - South Ends Open Market!

A little bit of NYC's open market life comes to Boston every Sunday! Sowa Sunday is an outdoor Art and Indie Design Market. The market is free and open to the public! Local artists and more come together to share the best hidden gems around.

The group of artisans change every week and range from bakers, photographers, jewelry designers, and more!

HINT: The market stays open throughout the entire year! Visit in other seasons for Concerts, Holiday Markets, Open Galleries and more! Click on this link for more info and Happy Shopping!

Phone: 800-403-8305

540 Harrison Avenue

Boston, Massachusetts

Catherine Hinds Student Spa Clinic - Facials for $24!

Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics offers a student clinic with professional spa services ranging from $24.00 facials, to "The Works" which includes steam, body exfoliation, body wrap, mini facial & a soothing session for just $120.00. This clinic is such a Hidden Gem for Spa-goers!

Students must complete a minimum of 150 hours before performing services in the clinic, and with instructors monitoring the student’s technique; you are guaranteed only the best treatment! We know, it really is too good to be true.

HINT: Try their famous Enzyme Facial $34.00, you will be glowing all week!

Phone: 781-935-3344

300 Wildwood Avenue

Woburn, MA 01801

Athan's Bakery - The best Frappe in town!

Athans Bakery has been a Boston staple for years. Coffee snobs like us appreciate their long list of European coffees and teas. Athan's also offers great Panini's, Salads and more. With large table space and free WiFi at both locations, Athan's is the perfect place for an afternoon escape! Maybe someday, you can escape to their third location in Kalamata, Greece.

They have so much to offer, yet we have not mentioned their daily homemade Cookies, Cakes, Gelato and more baked goods then you can ever imagine! If you have yet to visit the bakery, their famous Baklava is waiting for you and your afternoon craving.

HINT: Athan's is the only place in Boston to find a Nes Cafe Frappe. A popular European Iced-Coffee drink. Trust us, you will never order a regular coffee again. (Pictured Above)

Brookline
Phone: 617-734-7028
1621 Beacon Street
Brookline, MA 02446

Brighton
Phone: 617-783-0313
407 Washington Street
Brighton, MA 02135

Moore Massage - Best of Boston for a reason!

Moore Massage has been voted Best Of Boston for many reasons, one being...it really is the best! Michael Moore was coined the best massage therapist in Boston years ago, and still holds true to his title. This must be why Moore has regular clients from professional athletes, to top Boston Ballet dancers.

Moore also picks the cream of the crop when it comes to choosing his massage therapists. From the scented oils, to the Zen music that you would find at the chicest lounge in Ibiza, there are too many reasons to mention why you will be walking on clouds when it's over.

HINT: Mention Boston Weekends Blog and receive 20% off your massage, woohoo!

Phone: 617-424-4000

105 Newbury Street

Boston, MA 02116

Voted Best Burger by Boston, MA Facebook Fans!

We asked, and you answered! The question posed to over 70,000 Bostonians? Who makes the best Burger in town? The Winner: Mr. Bartley's in Cambridge. We love our fans, because we couldn't agree more.

If you have yet to try this burger haven, then you are truly missing out. There are 30 burger options on the menu, including The Yuppie: Boursin Cheese, Bacon and French Fries and The Mayor Mumbles Menino: Fried Egg, Bacon, Kraft Cheese & French Fries.

HINT: Just trust us and go see for yourself. No further explanation necessary.

2nd Place: Fuddruckers

3rd Place: Five Guys

Phone: 617-354-6559

1246 Massachusetts Avenue

Cambridge, MA 02138

Eat Pizza, Go Bowling, Be Happy.

The Flatbread Company just opened it's doors in Davis Square two weeks ago! They are known for their Organic wood fired clay oven flatbread pizza. Try the Co-Evolution: Kalamata Olives, Fresh Rosemary, Red Onions, Oven Roasted Red Peppers, Goat Cheese, Mozzarella, Garlic and Herbs.

The genius idea behind their new location? It sits inside of Sacco's Bowl Haven. So you choose your slice, sit down with friends, get some drinks at the bar, or bring your pizza over to enjoy while you bowl!

HINT: All menu items are prepared with Local and Organic produce, free range chicken and nitrate free meats, woohoo!

Phone: 617-776-0552

45 Day Street

Somerville, MA 02114

Pops Restaurant - Where Country Garden meets Urban Chic.

Pops restaurant is simply adorable. This little South End eatery is just perfect! From the cutesy Country Garden aesthetic with an Urban Flair, to the fine tuned seasonal menu, we can count on Pops for an enjoyable dining experience every time!

A few of our favorites include but are not limited to: The Kobe Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes, Glazed Organic Carrots and Gravy $19 and the Truffled Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter and Fried Egg $9.

For Brunch, The Brioche French Toast with Bananas and Nutella $9 are to die for! We recommend finishing off any meal with one of their signature Fizzy Champagne Cocktails.

HINT: Their Garden Room is precious and perfect for private parties of 20 or less, and their outdoor patio is a great spot for people watching!

Phone: 617-695-1250

560 Tremont Street

Boston, MA 02118

Rino's in East Boston - Italian Perfection!

We went to East Boston and came home with a piece of heaven. A little hole in the wall joint called Rino's is by far the best Italian in the city. With helpings that your Italian Grandmother would approve of, Rino's takes care of your cravings from start to finish.

Their appetizer Bruschetta is only $6.00 and can easily feed a family of four. With endless homemade options from the Gnocchi to the Veal Scallopini, everyone is guaranteed to leave happy.

HINT: The Food Networks Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives also picked up on this hidden gem!

Phone: 617-567-7412

258 Saratoga Street
East Boston, MA 02128-1616

Atlantic Beer Garden - Fun on the Waterfront!

Sick of the same old scene at Tia's on a warm summer night? We are too! That is why we finally ventured out to The Atlantic Beer Garden. Here you can expect to find a fab menu, great music, cheaper and larger beer selections, and a loud and lively crowd almost every night of the week!

HINT: Enjoy dinner on the waterfront paired with a killer live reggae band every Sunday from 5:30pm-9:30pm.

Phone: 617-357-8000

146 Seaport Blvd

Boston, MA 02210

The Harpoon Brewery - Tastings and Tours!

The Harpoon Brewery is a great and different idea for a pre-dinner cocktail or just to liven up a boring afternoon! Every Monday-Friday they have tastings at 2:00pm and 4:00pm. The best part is that all tastings are FREE! Weekend tours run from 11:30am every half hour on Saturday until 5:00pm and from 12pm to 5pm again on Sunday. The cost of weekend tours are just $5.00.

During the brewery tours, they will take you down under to watch all of the beer making in action. The Harpoon Brewery also throws several parties each year that you don't want to miss! Check out the pictures from their St. Patrick's Day festival last year.

HINT: Did you taste something that you love? No worries! They will fill up a 64 oz jug of your favorite brew to take home. We loved the new UFO White!

Phone:617-574-9551
306 Northern Avenue
Boston, MA 02210

Johnnie's on the Side - The Best of Both Worlds!

The weekend has arrived, and it's decision time. The question is, do you want to go to a club or a bar? Well, we have good news: Boston finally offers the best of both worlds! Johnnie's on the Side offers a great and may we add HUGE bar scene on the main floor. However this hot spot also provides a lounge/club experience on their lower level complete with cocktail tables and a VIP lounge experience!

HINT: Johnnie's hosts a great Brunch every Sunday featuring a classic live Reggae band and $5.00 mimosas woohoo!

Phone: 617-227-1588

138 Portland Street

Boston, MA 02114