Eating Boston

The Butcher Shop
This wine bar and boucherie features high-style house-made charcuterie and bistro-style cuisine. The signature Gulliver-sized butcher-block in the front room is one of the most clever restaurant design elements I have seen in the last decade. 552 Tremont St., 617-423-4800

Durgin–Park
This restaurant has been a Faneuil Hall landmark since opening its doors in 1827. The prime rib, wood-grilled chops and steaks, and touchy waitresses, some of whom have been working there since opening day, are all justifiably famous. 340 Faneuil Hall Marketplace, 617-227-2038

Hamersley’s Bistro
Another of my regular haunts in the South End. The cassoulet here is second to none, and the dining room, which resides in an old brick piano factory and features a comfy patio, is one of the most congenial places to eat dinner in the city. 553 Tremont St., 617-423-2700

Locke–Ober
Locke–Ober is a historic restaurant with a global reputation. Sit in the ancient dining room and slurp the same lobster bisque that JFK couldn’t get enough of. The men’s club atmosphere is not for everyone, but Locke–Ober’s oozes gravitas. 3 Winter Place, 617-542-1340

No. 9 Park
This Beacon Hill charmer is one of Boston’s toughest tables, but it’s well worth the effort. Chef-owner Barbara Lynch’s Franco-Italian menu changes like the weather, but last winter the chestnut ravioletti and the veal breast confit made for one of the best meals I had all year. 9 Park St., Boston, 617-742-9991

Santarpio’s
Pizzeria Regina, Upper Crust, and several other pizzerias are good, but only Santarpio’s features great pie, a gritty and urban boxing bar atmosphere, and a wood grill that only offers two items: grilled sausage and lamb skewers. 111 Chelsea St., East Boston, 617-567-9871