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Munch Madness!

Posted by Devra First  February 4, 2010 11:20 AM
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bracket.jpgbball1.JPGYou've heard of March Madness. It's competitive, but not always tasty. Now, welcome to Munch Madness: competitive and tasty. We'll pit 64 local restaurants against one another to determine the champion of the local dining scene.

On March 17, we'll post our bracket in the paper and online. Rounds 1 and 2 will take place March 18-21 (we'll skip the play-in game), and you'll be able to cast your vote online. Of course, there will be a forum for you to argue vociferously with others. We're fashioning ourselves after March Madness, after all. Following rounds will correspond with March Madness games.

plate1.JPGThe first steps are determining who gets a ticket to the dance and seeding the restaurants. You can help. Let us know which restaurants you feel absolutely, positively must participate in the tournament. These can be anything from the most expensive restaurant in town to the tiny mom-and-pop on your corner. We want to hear who's deserving and why. Post your suggestions in the comments section here, or let us know on Twitter. I'm @devrafirst. Be sure to tag your suggestions #munchmadness.

Who gets to play? Who will make it to the Final Four? And who will take the crown? In Munch Madness, it's up to you.

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211 comments so far...

  1. Trattoria Toscana on Jersey St.

    Posted by Lauren February 4, 10 12:41 PM

  1. Craigie on Main in Cambridge must be in the running!!

    Posted by Chris Yorty February 4, 10 02:12 PM

  1. Erbaluce
    Hammersley
    Toscano on Charles Street
    Union Bar and Grill

    Posted by Barbara February 4, 10 03:04 PM

  1. Cafe Mangal in Wellesley

    Posted by CB February 4, 10 03:31 PM

  1. Monica's and Taranta in the North end.
    Il Casale in Belmont.
    Dalya's in Bedford.
    The Grapevine in Salem.

    Posted by Jaden February 4, 10 03:58 PM

  1. kebab factory in somerville

    Posted by dj February 4, 10 03:58 PM

  1. Villa Mexico, the burrito place in the gas station in Beacon Hill. I hate to see it because I love them, too, but their food's better than Anna's Taqueria.

    Posted by avisquare February 4, 10 04:00 PM

  1. Sorry folks but the Prince Pizza House on Rt1 in Saugus has to be in the running. We have been going here for 25 years (maybe more) and never once had a bad experience. I can't say that about any other restaurant, including the pricey steak houses in town and even the North End. Its really a great place to take the family.

    Posted by Ray February 4, 10 04:03 PM

  1. Some places that MUST be included:
    Gaslight
    Sorellina
    Market
    Woodward
    Grill 23

    Posted by Tiffany February 4, 10 04:11 PM

  1. I had this idea 8 years ago and actually did this and had a scoring rubric.

    munch madness is so 2000 and late

    Posted by Ian Haffer February 4, 10 04:11 PM

  1. CRAIGIE, HUNGRY EYE, HUNGRY MOTHER, MARCOS, ORINOCO, TORO, GRUMPYS GAS STATION MEXICAN FOOD STAND, MIKE AND PATTYS. (DINNER AND/OR LUNCH?)

    Posted by DAVID February 4, 10 04:15 PM

  1. Il Casasle, Belmont
    Tuscan Grill, Waltham
    L'Anadana, Burlington

    Posted by AceOn6 February 4, 10 04:17 PM

  1. DEAD ON WITH VILLA MEXICA!!

    Posted by mike February 4, 10 04:20 PM

  1. Elephant Walk on Beacon St. Also one in Cambridge and Waltham I believe...a must add!

    Posted by Tom B February 4, 10 04:21 PM

  1. Looks like you were two years too late. What were your results? I don't agree with your reasoning, but if Munch Madness bores you, you don't have to participate.

    Posted by Devra First Author Profile Page February 4, 10 04:25 PM

  1. Top favorites to include:
    Coppa
    Sorrellina
    Lineage
    Biltmore (Newton)
    Fugakyu (Brookline)

    Posted by UrbanSuburban February 4, 10 04:27 PM

  1. The Garden at the cellar in Cambridge!!!!

    Posted by Hill February 4, 10 04:29 PM

  1. Meritage and No. 9 Park.

    Posted by Enzo February 4, 10 04:29 PM

  1. Taranta is WIN

    Posted by Nonya Business February 4, 10 04:33 PM

  1. Plough & Stars Cambridge
    The Helmand, Cambridge

    Posted by lyregrl February 4, 10 04:34 PM

  1. Coppa
    Toro
    Angela's Cafe
    Franklin Cafe
    Orinoco

    Did I say Coppa?!

    Posted by J February 4, 10 04:36 PM

  1. Reginas Pizzeria in the North End best pizza Warren Tavern in Charlestown

    Posted by sophie08 February 4, 10 04:37 PM

  1. For Goodness Sake Devra! Burton's Grill! Have you still not been there?

    Posted by nate February 4, 10 04:43 PM

  1. Albas in Quincy, better or equal to any steakhouse in town

    Posted by Ian D February 4, 10 04:43 PM

  1. Via Alto and, of course, The Old Timers, both in Clinton.
    Il Camino and Monument Grill in Leominster.
    111 Chophouse and Via in Worcester.

    Posted by HummBugg February 4, 10 04:44 PM

  1. Union Bar & Grill in the South End
    Eastern Standard in Kenmore

    Posted by Jen February 4, 10 04:45 PM

  1. Oh, Nate, I heart you for your persistence!

    Posted by Devra First Author Profile Page February 4, 10 04:47 PM

  1. Prezza

    Posted by AG February 4, 10 04:47 PM

  1. Gari Japanese Restaurant for their Maki Madness. $4.50 sushi rolls on Sundays. Woo hoo!

    Posted by DK February 4, 10 04:48 PM

  1. Sel de la Terre

    Posted by MJL February 4, 10 04:52 PM

  1. Cafe Polonia in South Boston

    Posted by Althea February 4, 10 04:55 PM

  1. Zaftig's in Brookline

    Posted by Brooke February 4, 10 04:58 PM

  1. I second Trattoria Toscana and want to add Gran Gusto.

    Posted by Piccola February 4, 10 04:58 PM

  1. Casa Portugal in Cambridge

    Posted by reggie February 4, 10 04:59 PM

  1. Burton's Grill ( I have to agree with nate!)
    Solstice in Kingston
    And, of course, Haddad's in Marshfield

    Posted by petail February 4, 10 04:59 PM

  1. Mooo
    Da Vinci
    Sorellina
    Rocca
    Toro
    Mike and Patty's
    Beehive
    Addis of the Red Sea
    No. 9 Park
    Cafe Mangal (Wellesley)
    Casa Romero
    Scampo
    Rod Dee (Brookline)
    Aceituna (Cambridge)

    Posted by OMK February 4, 10 05:00 PM

  1. 111 Chop House in Worcester
    Ixtapa Cantina in Lunenburg
    Moonstones in Chelmsford
    The Chateau in Waltham

    Posted by Brian February 4, 10 05:00 PM

  1. Marliave
    Franklin Cafe
    The Helmand
    No. 9 Park
    Toro
    Craigie On Main
    Hungry Mother
    Petit Robert
    La Voile
    Ten Tables
    TW Food
    Ole
    East Coast Grill

    Posted by Patrick February 4, 10 05:13 PM

  1. Fugakyu (Brookline)
    Masa
    East Coast Grill

    Posted by sarah February 4, 10 05:17 PM

  1. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Boston
    Tapeo, Newbury St.
    Dali
    Blue Ribbon BBQ, Arlington - divine Beef Brisket, best pecan pie

    Posted by amor February 4, 10 05:17 PM

  1. Sei Bar in Medford for sushi

    Posted by Jwoww February 4, 10 05:27 PM

  1. The Melting Pot has to be put into the bracket!!! Whether you want, cheese, a fondue entree, chocolate, or bar food this place is awesome. They also have a ten page wine list with over 200 different wines.

    Posted by Marie Goggin February 4, 10 05:28 PM

  1. Must have The Tavern from Tower Square in Plainville.
    Food is excellent as is service. Prices moderate. Great family owned restaurant

    Posted by Jack February 4, 10 05:33 PM

  1. Sunset Grille and Tap in Allston

    Posted by Robbo February 4, 10 05:34 PM

  1. COPPA!, Toro, O Ya, Tupelo, Felipe's, Oleana, Dali, Lord Hobo

    Posted by eaty eaterson February 4, 10 05:50 PM

  1. The Biltmore
    La Morra
    Les Zygomates

    Posted by michela February 4, 10 05:52 PM

  1. Johnnys Luncheonette in Newton Centre! Boom!

    Posted by Arlen February 4, 10 05:52 PM

  1. L'Espalier
    Mr. and Mrs. Bartley's Burger Cottage

    Posted by Michael February 4, 10 06:01 PM

  1. Brookline Lunch in Central
    J's Sushi on Mass Ave

    Posted by Em February 4, 10 06:03 PM

  1. Santarpio's East Boston
    Bukhara JP

    Posted by Carol February 4, 10 06:27 PM

  1. Oleana
    Toro
    Myers & Chang
    Craigie on Main

    Posted by saffronaddict February 4, 10 06:31 PM

  1. Neptune Oyster
    The Butcher Shop
    Meyers and Chang
    Oishii (Chestnut Hill)
    Toro
    Petit Robert Bistro

    Posted by BKB February 4, 10 06:31 PM

  1. Red bones
    Ole
    S and S deli
    Kelley's at Revere not the one in Medford

    Posted by sophie08 February 4, 10 06:38 PM

  1. The Real Deal in JP!!! They are the best!!!!!

    Posted by MMA94 February 4, 10 06:44 PM

  1. Pie Bakery and Cafe in Newton Center. Great neighborhood spot!

    Posted by eboy121 February 4, 10 06:59 PM

  1. scarlett oaks tavern. hingham the best

    Posted by r baciulis February 4, 10 06:59 PM

  1. fox and hounds steak tips quincy awesome++++++++

    Posted by raybo February 4, 10 07:03 PM

  1. Stone Soup, Ipswich, MA

    Posted by Ipswich February 4, 10 07:10 PM

  1. Kings Restaurant in Boston www.backbaykings.com

    Posted by Rin February 4, 10 07:30 PM

  1. Woodward!!! The only place that is doing what they are doing in Boston!

    Posted by Ering February 4, 10 07:39 PM

  1. The Melting Pot on Arlington St, Boston, MA. Best fondue place ever!!!!

    Posted by scorn227 February 4, 10 07:54 PM

  1. Tryst - Arlington
    Flora - Arlington

    Posted by MortimerPickle February 4, 10 07:56 PM

  1. The Blue Ox, Lynn!

    Posted by AM February 4, 10 08:02 PM

  1. Gran Gusto in Cambridge is a must: only place in Boston where you can eat the real neapolitan pizza, not to mention the calamari and the whole truffle menu!!!

    Posted by cunj February 4, 10 08:05 PM

  1. Tupelo and the Friendly Toast - easily the best places in Cambridge right now! Also, Tangierino and Marliave...

    Posted by nrl February 4, 10 08:26 PM

  1. So many good ones out there.
    L'Espalier
    Tapeo
    East Coast Grill
    The Melting Pot - All 3 MA Locations

    Posted by Kirstie February 4, 10 08:34 PM

  1. Catch in Winchester
    Clio
    Toro
    Grill 23
    Big Fresh in Framingham
    Hammersly's Bistro

    Posted by Jenn K February 4, 10 08:41 PM

  1. McDonalds
    Wendy's
    IHOP
    Subway
    just kidding

    Posted by suz February 4, 10 08:46 PM

  1. Joyful Garden in Alston.
    Not Your Average Joe's in Watertown.
    City Slicker Cafe in Somerville.

    Posted by Scott February 4, 10 08:47 PM

  1. Sonsie
    Casa Romero
    Abe & Louie
    Moo
    Henreitta's Kitchen

    Posted by evelyn February 4, 10 08:57 PM

  1. Dalya's in Bedford

    Posted by Brian February 4, 10 09:11 PM

  1. Myers&Chang
    Toro
    Ole
    ElSerape (Weymouth)
    Solstice (Kingston)
    Neptune Oyster

    Posted by Sir-eat-a-lot February 4, 10 09:12 PM

  1. The Melting Pot in Boston (So delicious!)

    Posted by Janice Plado Dalager "The JPD" February 5, 10 01:51 AM

  1. La Morra

    Posted by amy February 5, 10 07:43 AM

  1. The Melting Pot at Arlington St (in the Park Plaza Hotel). Great wine selection - nice private booths for a romantic night out. Delish cheese fondue, and the chocolate fondue - how can you go wrong dipping fresh fruit, pound cake, brownies, etc into a pot of yummy chocolate?

    Posted by Marie Chumley February 5, 10 08:47 AM

  1. Toro
    B&G Oysters
    Sibling Rivalry
    Sportello
    Les Zygomats
    Sorrelina

    Posted by Marie February 5, 10 09:45 AM

  1. O Ya ftw
    Radius
    No 9 Park
    Uni

    Posted by Vick Ditale February 5, 10 09:57 AM

  1. La Morra in brookline for sure!!!

    Posted by Lori February 5, 10 10:48 AM

  1. ERBALUCE!!!
    Myers + Chang
    Trattoria di Monica
    Ristorante Damiano
    Harvest
    Hammersley's
    Coppa
    Upstairs on the Square
    Zaftigs

    Posted by Vanessa February 5, 10 11:10 AM

  1. Union
    Metropolis
    Grill 23
    Erbaluce
    St. Alphonzo's Kitchen
    Neptune Oyster

    Posted by JackB February 5, 10 01:11 PM

  1. Another vote for Trattoria Toscana!

    Posted by Danielle370 February 5, 10 01:32 PM

  1. LaMorra in Brookline...amazing!!

    Posted by Nancy February 5, 10 02:30 PM

  1. Cragie on Main is definitely the top.

    throw Coppa and Toro up there too.

    Posted by ChefMattRock February 5, 10 02:50 PM

  1. Craigie on Main!

    Posted by MITfoodie February 5, 10 03:01 PM

  1. craigie on main
    solstice in kingston - was just there for the second time and it was excellent
    eastern standard

    Posted by laura February 5, 10 03:10 PM

  1. What is up with all of the votes for the Melting Pot?

    My votes go to Regina's Pizza in the North End, The Helmand, Ten Tables, and Shanghai Gate.

    Posted by allstonian February 5, 10 03:29 PM

  1. Toro

    Posted by Todd February 5, 10 03:52 PM

  1. Perhaps it has something to do with the Melting Pot asking its Twitter followers to write in. The truth will out in competition.

    Posted by Devra First Author Profile Page February 5, 10 03:53 PM

  1. O Ya

    Posted by jerseykid February 5, 10 04:00 PM

  1. The Melting Pot in Boston. Wine down Wednesday is my favorite. 2 glasses of wine, a pot of cheese, two appetizers, and a pot of chocolate for only $25!. The food is soooo delicious.

    Posted by Bostongirl February 5, 10 06:30 PM

  1. Clio (can I just vote for the tasting menu?)
    Presto Pizza in Cleveland Circle

    Posted by John Cococtosan February 5, 10 07:52 PM

  1. myers + chang, sportello, upstairs at the pudding, houstons

    Posted by xan February 5, 10 10:15 PM

  1. Oleana
    Kouzina
    Il Cappricio
    Solea

    Posted by Bobbie February 6, 10 12:09 AM

  1. Dont forget cape cod. La cucina sul mare..falmouth

    Posted by sean February 6, 10 08:17 AM

  1. No. 9 Park
    Hungry Mother
    Tupelo
    Craigie on Main
    Highland Kitchen

    Posted by CoraJ February 6, 10 09:25 AM

  1. The Blue Ox in Lynn! A great addition to the North Shore.

    Posted by JSchum9008 February 6, 10 10:12 AM

  1. La Morra in Brookline!

    Posted by Steve February 6, 10 11:56 AM

  1. Craige on Main, Oleana, Toro

    Posted by Mel February 6, 10 03:40 PM

  1. Locke Ober + Erbaluce + The Garden @ The Cellar + Stella

    Posted by GL February 6, 10 03:58 PM

  1. Sunmer Shack - Cambridge

    Posted by GL February 6, 10 04:03 PM

  1. LaMorra, Brookline amazing food great ambience

    Posted by Dotty February 6, 10 04:14 PM

  1. Ten Tables

    Posted by Doan Q February 6, 10 04:27 PM

  1. LaMorra, Brookline.. awesome

    Posted by Dotty February 6, 10 04:30 PM

  1. DeMaino's in Revere

    Posted by pane242 February 6, 10 07:21 PM

  1. The Blue Ox! Lynn MA; It has changed dining on the North Shore.

    Posted by Mark DeJoie February 7, 10 10:26 AM

  1. Blue Ox in Lynn.....Awesome

    Posted by Marie Murray February 7, 10 10:26 AM

  1. The Blue Ox in Lynn should definitely be on there! GREAT atmosphere and even better food! Their burgers and fries are my absolute favorite. My husband always orders a different entree and has never been disappointed!

    Posted by CME February 7, 10 10:30 AM

  1. Let's travel a little north of boston...

    THE BLUE OX in Lynn

    Beautiful restaurant and the food is out of this world. A great combination of ambiance, taste and cost. Please include it!

    Posted by twoboysintow February 7, 10 10:44 AM

  1. La Verdad
    Taberna de Haro
    Zocalo
    Butcher Shop
    Tasca

    Posted by dsnrt February 7, 10 10:51 AM

  1. BLUE OX
    most def...
    CHEERS all around
    da NorthShore ! foodfriendscocktailsappsyo

    Posted by rdriscoll February 7, 10 11:03 AM

  1. The Melting Pot

    Posted by Elise February 7, 10 11:54 AM

  1. The "Blue Ox" in Lynn is my vote!
    The food is mouthwatering the service has been great & the contemporary pub decor is warm & inviting.

    Posted by Stacey February 7, 10 12:54 PM

  1. Alia in Winthrop -- delicious food, great service

    Posted by Tara February 7, 10 01:52 PM

  1. The Blue Ox in Lynn -- the Cinderella of this year's bracket!

    Posted by Bill February 7, 10 02:33 PM

  1. The Blue Ox, Lynn!

    Posted by bcf February 7, 10 08:14 PM

  1. Blue Ox in Lynn

    Posted by steve February 8, 10 09:58 AM

  1. Craigie on Main, hands down!

    Posted by Jessica Rodriguez February 8, 10 10:43 AM

  1. The BLUE OX in Lynn FO' SHO!!!!!

    Posted by Aaron B February 8, 10 10:50 AM

  1. The Blue Ox in Lynn gets my vote-love those Blue Ox Burgers!

    Posted by bmd February 8, 10 11:59 AM

  1. I feel like I am reading from Phantom Gourmet LOL Best of luck, we all have our own hidden jewels....The Warren Tavern in Charlestown is great for Sunday breakfast. You may need to hunt for a parking spot but when you do the breakfast is worth the effort

    Posted by sophie08 February 8, 10 12:17 PM

  1. Orinocco
    Ole
    Mare
    Toro
    Dali
    Cuchi Cuchi
    Ten Tables
    Sushi Teq

    Posted by Devin Bramhall February 8, 10 01:19 PM

  1. Gibbett Hill in Groton

    Posted by country mouse February 8, 10 01:55 PM

  1. **Harringtons Pub - Wakefield**
    Domenics - Waltham
    Angela's - rt. 1, Saugus
    Kowloon - rt. 1, Saugus
    Regina's
    Louie's Pizza - Woburn

    Posted by Ryan February 8, 10 02:50 PM

  1. Oleana-Cambridge
    Craigie-Cambrige
    Maxwell's - natick
    Masala Art- Needham
    Blue Ginger- Wellesley

    Posted by Dee Larson February 8, 10 02:56 PM

  1. Sorellina
    Il Casale
    Oleana
    Deluxe Town Diner

    Posted by Kate February 8, 10 03:38 PM

  1. Blue Ox Lynn!!

    Posted by Amy A. February 8, 10 03:54 PM

  1. Rialto
    West Side Lounge
    Emma's Pizza
    Za (in Arlington)

    Posted by Holly February 8, 10 04:43 PM

  1. The Real Deal !!!
    J.P. and West Roxbury

    Posted by Mike February 8, 10 05:46 PM

  1. absolutely Craigie on Main!

    Posted by Marianne February 9, 10 07:39 AM

  1. Oishii (South End)
    Tangierino (Charlestown)
    Metropolis Cafe (South End)
    Santarpios (East Boston)
    Friendly Toast (Cambridge)
    Viva Burrito (West End)

    Posted by Mike February 9, 10 08:32 AM

  1. The Blue Ox in Lynn. Tuna Tartare with homemade paper thin potato chips - yummy (and feels very healthy!!?!)

    Posted by Mary Ellen February 9, 10 08:40 AM

  1. The Blue Ox in Lynn. The tuna tartare with paper thin homemade potato chips - delicious and feels downright healthy!

    Posted by Mary February 9, 10 08:46 AM

  1. Real Deal Jamaica Plain - they are the best!

    Posted by Kristin February 9, 10 08:53 AM

  1. Ziti's in Westborough on Rte 9 - excellent Italian without going to Boston

    Posted by cj February 9, 10 09:03 AM

  1. The Real Deal in JP is a must!!!!

    Posted by Tamara February 9, 10 09:05 AM

  1. The Real Deal
    JP and West Roxbury

    Posted by Jenn February 9, 10 09:13 AM

  1. The Real Deal in W. Roxbury and JP

    Posted by Patrick February 9, 10 09:18 AM

  1. The Real Deal in JP. It don't get any better than this !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Posted by mike February 9, 10 09:27 AM

  1. The Real Deal!!!
    West Roxbury!!!

    Posted by Carrie Murphy February 9, 10 09:29 AM

  1. The Real Deal is #1
    Top shelf place, high quality and great service!

    Posted by Drew February 9, 10 09:45 AM

  1. THE REAL DEAL in JP!!!!!

    Posted by Diana February 9, 10 09:57 AM

  1. Grill 23 and Redbones. Ya Gotta Love Meat!

    Posted by Karin February 9, 10 10:13 AM

  1. Carl's Subs on Prospect St in Waltham. The BEST SUBS ever

    Posted by Frank February 9, 10 11:10 AM

  1. The Real Deal Rules!!!! JP and West Roxbury.

    Posted by Scott February 9, 10 12:49 PM

  1. Wow, sudden bursts of love for the Real Deal, the Blue Ox, the Melting Pot. So very unsuspicious.

    Posted by Devra First Author Profile Page February 9, 10 01:06 PM

  1. Lala Rohk
    Zocalo

    Posted by mk February 9, 10 01:13 PM

  1. The Real Deal Rules!!!! JP and West Roxbury.

    Posted by matthew February 9, 10 01:41 PM

  1. La Morra Brookline...."The Best "

    Posted by j Geisinger February 9, 10 02:45 PM

  1. Craigie on Main in Cambridge
    Tresca's in North End
    Pigalle in Theatre District
    Grill 23 in Back Bay

    Posted by Jon February 9, 10 03:47 PM

  1. REAL DEAL AND SUGAR in West Roxbury and REAL DEAL in Jamaica Plain!!!!

    Posted by Cal February 9, 10 08:38 PM

  1. real deal is the best

    Posted by Jason February 9, 10 09:05 PM

  1. There should be divisions. Fine dining, casual and pub. How do you compare La Morra, one of my favorites, with Carl's Sub, which I never heard about?

    Posted by JohnT February 10, 10 09:25 AM

  1. The Real Deal in West Roxbury and JP is a must!

    Posted by Stephanie February 10, 10 10:46 AM

  1. Dogwood Cafe (JP)
    Ten Tables (JP)
    Casa Romero
    Tapeo
    Gaslight
    Henrietta's Table

    Posted by Sarah B. February 10, 10 11:19 AM

  1. Lumiere in Newton! http://www.lumiererestaurant.com/

    Posted by Jessica February 10, 10 11:38 AM

  1. How about Lucky's in South Boston? Surprisingly delicious and I love the Sinatra Sundays!

    Posted by Mmmm Hmmmm February 10, 10 11:39 AM

  1. Rinos in Eastie has the best Italian in the city
    Cafe Marliave keeps getting better and better
    Sportello on Congress gets a nod
    Bakeys on Broad has great sandwiches
    Sel de la Terre at Long Wharf never disappoints.

    Posted by Mr. Pibb February 10, 10 12:20 PM

  1. Good point. The same way Duke and Rhode Island might both play in March Madness. We'll be seeding restaurants.

    Posted by Devra First Author Profile Page February 10, 10 01:46 PM

  1. Trattoria 89 Milford
    Not Your Average Joe's

    Posted by William Ferguson February 10, 10 01:56 PM

  1. craigie on main
    coppa
    toro
    deluxe town diner
    santarpio's
    all-star cafe
    falafel king

    Posted by katie February 10, 10 04:31 PM

  1. Highland Kitchen
    The Greek Corner
    East Coast Grill
    Christopher's
    Cafe Barada

    Posted by jr February 10, 10 05:02 PM

  1. Rialto, Oleana, Rendevous, TW Food, Coppa, Tacos Lupita, The Neighborhood, Ashmont Grill, Gran Gusto, Basta Pasta, Orinoco, 9 Park

    Posted by conchita February 10, 10 05:26 PM

  1. Highland Kitchen
    Channel Cafe
    Tavern @ The End of the World
    Redbones
    Barlowes

    Posted by Zac February 10, 10 05:27 PM

  1. The Blue Ox in Lynn is unbelievable!!! Great food & atmosphere...a hidden gem!

    Posted by Katie February 10, 10 05:38 PM

  1. Tresca
    Lucca
    Stella
    Regina Pizza
    Border Cafe
    Dino's (N.End for Cheap Eats, Pasta and Sandwiches)
    The Real Deal
    The Met

    Posted by Mike February 10, 10 08:19 PM

  1. The Beacon Hill Bistro

    Posted by Monnie February 10, 10 08:30 PM

  1. Redbones - nothing beats the Barbecue Belt
    Charlies Kitchen in Harvard Sq - Double Cheeseburger
    Scarlet Oak Tavern in Hingham - better than Boston steakhouses
    Post 390 - love the Narragansett Tall Boys
    Carmen in North End - always exceed expectations

    Posted by Bill February 10, 10 11:26 PM

  1. RINO'S PLACE IN EAST BOSTON. "THE BEST ITALIAN FOOD AROUND". PHANTOM APPROVED, CHEAP EATS, AND PLENTY OF WITE UP'S............

    Posted by ANNA February 11, 10 08:53 AM

  1. Being A Italian who loves to cook ,I rarely go out for Italian food .When I do there is only one place and thats Rino's in East Boston .Small family run resturant .The food is outstanding .I vote for Rino's

    Posted by Joe Loco February 11, 10 09:48 AM

  1. I second Haddad's in Marshfield - absolute best lobster chowder ever!
    Craigie on Main for high end
    Buff's Pub in Newton Corner
    and O'Hara's in Newton Highlands for great pub food.
    Demos in Watertown or Waltham
    Bollywood Cafe on the Arlington/Lexington line

    Posted by Nancy February 11, 10 10:37 AM

  1. Rino's Place in East Boston. The best Italian Food, great atmosphere and the best prices. When I want "good" Italian Food I go to Rino's.

    Posted by Lori Tritto February 11, 10 11:10 AM

  1. RINO'S PLACE EAST BOSTON

    Posted by MVP24 February 11, 10 01:06 PM

  1. I vote for RINO'S PLACE in East Boston. The number one place for Italian Food in the state!

    Posted by MIKE P February 11, 10 01:28 PM

  1. Rinos Place in East Boston has the best Italian food.

    Posted by shirley February 12, 10 11:34 AM

  1. Maxwell's 148 in Natick
    Sweet Basil in Needham

    Posted by jb February 12, 10 01:40 PM

  1. Buff's Pub in Newton and The Real Deal in JP

    Posted by Diana February 12, 10 03:11 PM

  1. Maxwell's 148
    Sweet Basil
    Aegean

    Posted by NYB February 12, 10 09:48 PM

  1. No comparison for Italian food, Rino's Place, East Boston, awesome!!!

    Posted by Wonda February 13, 10 07:56 PM

  1. Oleana in Cambridge for an in-town splurge
    Kouzina in Waban for a lower-end local splurge
    Blue Ribbon BBQ in West Newton
    Lam's in Newtonville
    Il Capriccio in Waltham for a suburban splurge

    Posted by Bobbie February 13, 10 11:19 PM

  1. Jasmine Bistro in Brighton-elegant,exquisite, delicious. An Afghan chef does great Hungarian dishes.
    And another vote for Trattoria Toscana on Jersey Street. Those Albanians
    do great Italian food.

    Posted by Priscilla Biondi February 14, 10 05:54 PM

  1. Scutra in Arlington for the food alone....
    Greek Corner in Cambridge for value...
    Il Capriccio for high-end magnificence

    Posted by Jim February 17, 10 12:57 PM

  1. Gaslight Du Coin - high end!
    Border Cafe - fun food!

    Posted by Jonathan Bowen February 17, 10 06:59 PM

  1. Gaslight definitely!

    Posted by Moe192 February 17, 10 09:25 PM

  1. Gaslight
    Sorellina
    Coppa
    Toro
    Neptune Oyster
    Mistral

    Posted by DanielleW February 17, 10 10:48 PM

  1. Coppa
    Toro
    Douzo
    Orinocco
    Hungry Mother

    Posted by Ian Martin February 18, 10 12:06 PM

  1. Strip-T's in Watertown should be in the Munch Madness, the food is always, always fresh, as is the name (they use that logo). Daily specials and homemade soups are awesome !! Small neighborhood place serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a great, funny staff to make you smile anyday and everyone is always friendly !!!!

    Posted by Patti February 18, 10 01:44 PM

  1. Gaslight
    Abe & Louies
    Beehive
    Washington Sq Tavern
    Panza
    Atlantic Fish Co.

    Posted by Andrew February 19, 10 02:17 PM

  1. Craigie on Main. Once you've been, you know.

    Posted by AB February 20, 10 09:28 AM

  1. Craigie on Main
    Toscano on Charlest St.
    Gourmet Dumpling House
    Xinh Xinh
    East Coast Grill
    Neptune Oyster

    Posted by mattyl February 20, 10 10:15 AM

  1. Craigie on Main

    Posted by Edith February 20, 10 08:14 PM

  1. Craigie on Main

    Posted by Ted Freedman February 21, 10 12:17 AM

  1. L'Espalier is our favorite splurge. Truly a top notch restaurant with unmistakably good cuisine based on fresh, local ingredients and superb waitstaff.

    Craigie on Main in Cambridge is our new favorite restaurant. We'd be over there more often if we lived closer. We love Chef Tony Mawes' creative and oh so good cuisine. The menu is always changing, with great tasting menus and chef's whim experiences, and reflects local and New England supplies. We've finally tried the brunch and it's just as delicious as dinner.

    Zaftig's in Brookline has to be in there, if for no other reason than their French toast, although they're such an excellent Jewish deli it's hard to single out just one dish.

    Orinoco in Brookline Village deserves a nod. The food is just superb, simply done yet so well executed. And the service is excellent, too. We've tried another Venezuelan restaurant, La Casa de Pedro in Watertown, and there's just no comparison: Orinoco is superior.

    Taqueria Mexico in Waltham is our favorite hidden gem. I know Zagat dinged it, but they missed the point in their review. This is a great neighborhood Mexican food joint, with just the right amount of atmosphere (which includes the tired seats and wood panel walls). It's always busy, yet the service is friendly (in fact, people we've dragged there become convinced we're best friends with the owners because of how warmly we're greeted) and the food consistently good.

    Call me a food snob, but I'd love to see locally based restaurants favored over national chains, especially when a major draw for the chains is the wine list. This is called MUNCH madness, not drink madness, right?

    Posted by Anne February 21, 10 10:20 AM

  1. local scene - Townsends in Hyde Park

    Posted by Pat K February 22, 10 03:00 PM

  1. Craigie on Main, hands down.

    Posted by Heidi March 1, 10 04:06 PM

  1. FORTY DALTON - Hilton Boston Back Bay, hidden Gem

    Posted by Jack March 4, 10 10:29 AM

  1. Hungry Mother - Cambridge
    Craigie on Main - Cambridge

    Posted by Christy March 7, 10 11:49 AM

  1. Craigie on Main, hands down.
    O Ya is right up there too

    Posted by escoffier March 7, 10 12:22 PM

  1. craigie on main....exceptional.

    Posted by Bodhi March 7, 10 01:31 PM

  1. Craigie on Main
    L'Espalier
    East Coast Grill
    Le Petit Bistro Robert
    Fugakyu

    Posted by eatfrenchmuch March 7, 10 03:08 PM

  1. Channel Cafe in Fort Point is a must! Best spot in the city for locally grown/affordable menu options.

    Posted by Jessica March 8, 10 09:19 AM

  1. craigie on main
    hungry mother
    no. 9 park
    b and g oysters
    the butcher shop
    toro
    coppa
    eastern standard

    Posted by Sam LINDENBERG March 9, 10 03:43 PM

  1. Taiwan Cafe

    Posted by Noah Roffman March 10, 10 11:20 AM

  1. CRAIGIE ON MAIN, is it even a question?

    Posted by Blair March 13, 10 07:36 PM

  1. Flora in Arlington
    EVOO in Somerville

    Posted by Caramba March 14, 10 09:09 AM

  1. Gran Gusto in Cambridge - off the beaten track but fabulous.

    Posted by JS March 18, 10 12:02 PM

  1. Petit Robert Bistro- Authentic French fare and reasonable. For the price it cannot be beat.

    Posted by TR March 23, 10 10:58 AM

  1. Hamersley's Bistro is consistently the best!
    Myers and Chang must also be included.

    Posted by CC March 25, 10 11:24 AM

  1. Craigie on Main!

    Posted by Bodhi March 26, 10 12:31 PM

  1. L'Espalier -- Best in USA!
    Locke Ober -- an easily overlooked classic with great unfussy New England cuisine. Get your appetite down there because I think they are having an identity crisis and need new customers desparately. The old thrifty yankees are a dying breed and the martini lunch crowd has long disappeared. Nonetheless, the atmosphere is quintessential Boston and the food is quite good. I don't want this to go the same route as Filene's Basement in this odd Downtown Crossing location. One of the oldest restaurants in the nation. Please support it!!

    Posted by Joseph February 24, 11 03:08 PM

  1. Rendez-vous - Cambridge
    Locke Ober - Boston
    L'Espalier - Boston
    Caffe Italia - Marblehead

    Posted by JR February 24, 11 03:10 PM

  1. East Coast Grill
    Foundry on Elm
    Russell House Tavern

    Posted by Heather Booth March 25, 11 08:04 AM
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