Living so close to Boston, it’s unusual for me to actually spend the night there. On Thursday, Dan and I used a free hotel night at the Sheraton Boston. This is not your parent’s hotel! Sheraton recently renovated all of their properties and it shows. From the free samples of Starbuck’s Frappuccino in the lobby to the soothing brown and green decor in the room to the oversize photos of Boston landmarks throughout, it’s a very comfortable place to spend the night.
With just one night in town we had to make it count. First stop was Bukowski’s, conveniently located practically out the front door of the hotel. Not for food this time (but the pub menu sounded extremely appealing), but the beers on tap didn’t disappoint. Quite a good selection, and the bartenders knew their stuff, answering our questions knowledgeably.
Dinner was at the Franklin Cafe‘s newest outpost in Southie. I’d heard great feedback about this restaurant’s other locations and was excited to try it myself. Fun drinks and an extensive wine list make up the beverage portion of the menu. We stuck to a seafood theme for dinner; oysters, smoked mussels (I want the recipe!) and tuna tartare for appetizers and a seared scallop and candied bacon (!) entree. The outdoor seating area was pleasant with a sunset view and for such interesting food, the prices seemed quite reasonable.
After dinner we headed over to Central Square in Cambridge to meet up with a friend of Dan’s. He took us to a nearby lounge called Green Street, located on Green St. More good beer here with several microbrews from California, Colorado and Oregon represented. A good crowd was gathered and I found a new Facebook friend ‘Hello Giselle!’
The next morning Dan was much more energetic than I, going for a run while I lounged in the serene surroundings of the room. On our way back to the T station we stopped by Wagamama in the Prudential Center for lunch. What a find! Fresh Asian noodle dishes and fresh squeezed juice drinks are the order of the day at this restaurant. I’m already planning my next trip to one of their locations to try some more of the tempting menu items.
With the Clipper City Rail Trail in Newburyport an easy walk from my house, taking the train to Boston to spend the night was a very enjoyable way to start a long summer weekend.
Photo source: ReneS/flickr
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