Blog

  • Kermit Rides in Style in Provincetown

    Only in Provincetown could Kermit the Frog flaunt his fluorescent colors and ride proudly through the town on the handlebars of a bike, on the way to work at an art gallery.

    IMG_7380 - Version 22014-04-26kermit, provincetown, being green, okay here, best use of bike,© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Provincetown is a place where it is actually easy, "Bein' Green." If you haven't seen this video in a while, please watch it. You are okay just as you are. Kermit says so!

    Be Green as often as you can.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

  • Dash Is Our Dashing South End Sunday Dog!

    DSC_3119 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    What makes our Sunday Dog Dash so dashing (as in: attractive, lively, adventurous, bold, daring, dapper, and debonair)? Just look at that face! Any more questions?

     

    I mean, this pup’s photo should appear alongside search results for “dashing” on the internet.  

     

    DSC_3100 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    Of course, before Dash arrived from Above and Beyond English Setter Rescue, his family-to-be had to decide on that name. After considering lots of possibilities, an interest in mystery novels and writer Dashiell Hammett helped seal the deal.

     

    DSC_3167 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    “And, then,” according to his person, “when he arrived, he had a big DASH on his side and when he wants to run he’s very speedy!” Perfect!

    DSC_3144 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    At two years old, Dash, who we’re told is “a mix of English Setter, Lab, Great Pyrenees, and some added mutt,” is having fun discovering his world. Right now, he’s going to a “Nosing Class” at the Animal Rescue League.

     

    The instructors, “Start by teaching him to find a treat, then keys, then [they] put things under boxes. It’s how they train [detection] dogs to find illegal drugs, missing people,” specific substances, etc.

     

    DSC_3116 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    As far as we could tell, Dash is already pretty good with his nose. Before saying goodbye to this South End charmer, we offered him a treat that he had no trouble sniffing out. Dash, you’re gonna ace that class!

     

    Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

    And, here's a post about some dogs that aced that "Nosing Class."

     

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2014 Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Dash Is Our Dashing South End Sunday Dog!

    DSC_3119 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    What makes our Sunday Dog Dash so dashing (as in: attractive, lively, adventurous, bold, daring, dapper, and debonair)? Just look at that face! Any more questions?

     

    I mean, this pup’s photo should appear alongside search results for “dashing” on the internet.  

     

    DSC_3100 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    Of course, before Dash arrived from Above and Beyond English Setter Rescue, his family-to-be had to decide on that name. After considering lots of possibilities, an interest in mystery novels and writer Dashiell Hammett helped seal the deal.

     

    DSC_3167 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    “And, then,” according to his person, “when he arrived, he had a big DASH on his side and when he wants to run he’s very speedy!” Perfect!

    DSC_3144 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    At two years old, Dash, who we’re told is “a mix of English Setter, Lab, Great Pyrenees, and some added mutt,” is having fun discovering his world. Right now, he’s going to a “Nosing Class” at the Animal Rescue League.

     

    The instructors, “Start by teaching him to find a treat, then keys, then [they] put things under boxes. It’s how they train [detection] dogs to find illegal drugs, missing people,” specific substances, etc.

     

    DSC_3116 - Version 22014-06-22-Dash-sunday-dog-south-end-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

     

    As far as we could tell, Dash is already pretty good with his nose. Before saying goodbye to this South End charmer, we offered him a treat that he had no trouble sniffing out. Dash, you’re gonna ace that class!

     

    Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

    And, here's a post about some dogs that aced that "Nosing Class."

     

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

     Details:

    Words: Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2014 Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Happy July 4th 2014 from the BostonZest Team

    For those of you who didn't see the fireworks in person last night, we offer some outstanding photos of past fireworks as our Friday Link. Enjoy!

    5904209572_828e354b05_b

    5904218952_568dd15753_b

    These fireworks photos are by H.Powers and used under this creative commons license. 

    Head over to the H.Power's photostream to see his outstanding photography.

    What's on your Summer Fun shopping list? Shop Amazon Everything You Need for Summer Fun and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: by H.Powers and used under this creative commons license. 

  • Happy July 4th 2014 from the BostonZest Team

    For those of you who didn't see the fireworks in person last night, we offer some outstanding photos of past fireworks as our Friday Link. Enjoy!

    5904209572_828e354b05_b

    5904218952_568dd15753_b

    These fireworks photos are by H.Powers and used under this creative commons license. 

    Head over to the H.Power's photostream to see his outstanding photography.

    What's on your Summer Fun shopping list? Shop Amazon Everything You Need for Summer Fun and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: by H.Powers and used under this creative commons license. 

  • Shake Shack Harvard Square

    A craving for a "drive-in" style crusty burger took us to Harvard Square Shake Shack, recently.

    DSC_1935 - Version 22014-05-08_shake-sahck-harvard-square-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We're not usually fans of chain restaurants, but this chain is an exception to our rule because it is owned and operated by a group that has been exceptionally good for the hospitality business. (Penny was rooting for Shake Shack when the city was considering a vendor for the Boston Common.)

    We had Poppy with us and planned to lunch in the park near the river. Poppy approves of anything that means we'll be sitting on a park bench for awhile. And, Shake Shack makes it easy to dine on a bench with their well designed wrappers and trays.

    8274646948_9ddf246b69_z

    Photo by Robyn Lee used under this creative commons license.

    Ed had the ShakeBurger with a Fair Shake Coffee shake. Penny had the SmokeShack with a root beer float and we shared an order of fries. Both burgers were minus the ShakeSauce because we don't do mayo dressings.

    227916124_1a914ea0f6_z

    Photo by Robyn Lee used under this creative commons license.

    This is the type of burger that Penny enjoyed at diners and drive-ins in Rhode Island once upon a time. And, the addition of frozen custard – another of her memory foods – makes this an occasional craving that must be addressed.

    We keep watching for any sign that the Newbury Street location is on its way and we'd still like to see a Shake Shack on the Boston Common.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: Harvard Square © 2014 Ed Cherubino, Food Photos by Robyn Lee of Serious Eats used under this creative commons license.

  • Shake Shack Harvard Square

    A craving for a "drive-in" style crusty burger took us to Harvard Square Shake Shack, recently.

    DSC_1935 - Version 22014-05-08_shake-sahck-harvard-square-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    We're not usually fans of chain restaurants, but this chain is an exception to our rule because it is owned and operated by a group that has been exceptionally good for the hospitality business. (Penny was rooting for Shake Shack when the city was considering a vendor for the Boston Common.)

    We had Poppy with us and planned to lunch in the park near the river. Poppy approves of anything that means we'll be sitting on a park bench for awhile. And, Shake Shack makes it easy to dine on a bench with their well designed wrappers and trays.

    8274646948_9ddf246b69_z

    Photo by Robyn Lee used under this creative commons license.

    Ed had the ShakeBurger with a Fair Shake Coffee shake. Penny had the SmokeShack with a root beer float and we shared an order of fries. Both burgers were minus the ShakeSauce because we don't do mayo dressings.

    227916124_1a914ea0f6_z

    Photo by Robyn Lee used under this creative commons license.

    This is the type of burger that Penny enjoyed at diners and drive-ins in Rhode Island once upon a time. And, the addition of frozen custard – another of her memory foods – makes this an occasional craving that must be addressed.

    We keep watching for any sign that the Newbury Street location is on its way and we'd still like to see a Shake Shack on the Boston Common.

    Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: Harvard Square © 2014 Ed Cherubino, Food Photos by Robyn Lee of Serious Eats used under this creative commons license.

  • Toast July with American Sparkling Wines – A Few of Our Picks

    Celebrate the happy new month of July with sparkling wines from the good old USA! 

    DSC_2856 - Version 22014-06-12-wine-sparkling-american-bottles-basket-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Gather a basketful from across the country. Above, you see Schramsberg Brut Rosé and Mumm Napa Brut Prestige from California, and Gruet Rosé from New Mexico.

    Wine Spectator has a list of American sparkling wines that they rated in a 2012 tasting. One thing that may surprise you is that several of these are more expensive than some of the Champagnes we’ve featured in our wine selections.

    6a00e54fc42bb8883401157060d455970b-800wi

    But, you will also find value wines on this list. The Gruet family offers wines for many tastes at good prices. Our favorite is their Blanc de Noir. (shown above)

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017ee48eab0e970d-500wi

    You can pick your favorite and serve it by the flute-full to happy guests who may not realize just how good American Sparklers can be.

    This happened a few years ago at one of our July 4th parties with magnums of Argyle Brut. Our guests thought we had broken the bank with all that great wine but, back then, this little treasure from Oregon was an unbelievable value. 

    Times change and appreciation for American Sparkling wine has driven up the price, but Argyle remains close to our hearts. It’s a wine we associate with friends far and near. (Why we do is explained here.)

    6a00e54fc42bb888340133ef5c0d5a970b-800wi

    Of course, we in Massachusetts have our local, award-winning sparkling wines from Westport Rivers Winery to serve with pride.

    6a00e54fc42bb888340163011640c5970d-800wi

    As you travel this summer, be sure to add a local wine search to your trip planning. These days, you can Google “Long Island Sparkling Wine,” “Finger Lakes Sparkling Wine,” “Oregon Sparkling Wine,” or “Best Amercian Sparkling Wine” to create a list to scout. 

    Some, like the Soter Brut Rosé, we save for special occasions. Others are everyday roof deck and beach house fare. Explore, choose, sip, and enjoy buying American in July.

    What’s your favorite American Sparkling Wine? Let us know!

    Here’s More About Our Sparkling Resolution

    And, Our Sparkling Resolution Winner’s List

    Want to learn more about wine? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site! Here are three of our favorite wine books.

    The Food Lover’s Guide to Wine

    The New Wine Lover’s Companion

    The Wine Bible

     

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2008-2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

  • Toast July with American Sparkling Wines – A Few of Our Picks

    Celebrate the happy new month of July with sparkling wines from the good old USA! 

    DSC_2856 - Version 22014-06-12-wine-sparkling-american-bottles-basket-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Gather a basketful from across the country. Above, you see Schramsberg Brut Rosé and Mumm Napa Brut Prestige from California, and Gruet Rosé from New Mexico.

    Wine Spectator has a list of American sparkling wines that they rated in a 2012 tasting. One thing that may surprise you is that several of these are more expensive than some of the Champagnes we’ve featured in our wine selections.

    6a00e54fc42bb8883401157060d455970b-800wi

    But, you will also find value wines on this list. The Gruet family offers wines for many tastes at good prices. Our favorite is their Blanc de Noir. (shown above)

    6a00e54fc42bb88834017ee48eab0e970d-500wi

    You can pick your favorite and serve it by the flute-full to happy guests who may not realize just how good American Sparklers can be.

    This happened a few years ago at one of our July 4th parties with magnums of Argyle Brut. Our guests thought we had broken the bank with all that great wine but, back then, this little treasure from Oregon was an unbelievable value. 

    Times change and appreciation for American Sparkling wine has driven up the price, but Argyle remains close to our hearts. It’s a wine we associate with friends far and near. (Why we do is explained here.)

    6a00e54fc42bb888340133ef5c0d5a970b-800wi

    Of course, we in Massachusetts have our local, award-winning sparkling wines from Westport Rivers Winery to serve with pride.

    6a00e54fc42bb888340163011640c5970d-800wi

    As you travel this summer, be sure to add a local wine search to your trip planning. These days, you can Google “Long Island Sparkling Wine,” “Finger Lakes Sparkling Wine,” “Oregon Sparkling Wine,” or “Best Amercian Sparkling Wine” to create a list to scout. 

    Some, like the Soter Brut Rosé, we save for special occasions. Others are everyday roof deck and beach house fare. Explore, choose, sip, and enjoy buying American in July.

    What’s your favorite American Sparkling Wine? Let us know!

    Here’s More About Our Sparkling Resolution

    And, Our Sparkling Resolution Winner’s List

    Want to learn more about wine? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site! Here are three of our favorite wine books.

    The Food Lover’s Guide to Wine

    The New Wine Lover’s Companion

    The Wine Bible

     

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2008-2014 Penny & Ed Cherubino  

  • Where to Pick Up Great Food for Boston Summer 2014 Events

    This is going to be a big week for events around Boston with both the July 4th Celebration on the Esplanade and Boston Harborfest. If you want to pick up a picnic to enjoy at a summer event, we have some great links. (A tip to our often confused visitors to Boston on July 4th – the Boston Pops concert and fireworks are on the Charles River NOT on the harbor!)

    Along the Charles on July 4th, both sides of the river will be filled with fireworks fans. Here are some of the places where you can pick up a meal near an entrance to the Esplanade or close to Memorial Drive on the Cambridge side. You do need food while you stake out your spot for the big show.

    Be sure to check the July 4th official site for the latest security restrictions for the Hatch Shell Oval and island areas before you plan your picnic and figure out how to carry it to the concert and fireworks.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834011570c3f2e4970c-500wi

    Fireworks Barges on the River

    Back Bay

    Marlboro Market (map & reviews) has a deli counter where they make some of the best sandwich values in the area. Simple, hearty fare made to your specifications by the friendly crew behind the counter. Bonus – you can fill your cooler with soft drinks, chips, and anything else you need here. They even sell the coolers!

    Thinking Cup has a new location at 85 Newbury Street, between the Arlington and Dartmouth Street footbridges to the park, and offers a great selection of take-out. They also have locations across from the Boston Common at 165 Tremont Street and in the North End at 236 Hanover Street.

    IMG_7520 - Version 22014-06-20-Picnic- public-garden-boston-Bacco's-Bento-Box-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Bacco's Wine and Cheese is on St. James right off Arlington making it the perfect place to pick up a meal for either the Esplanade or The Boston Common. Above is their ready-to-go Bento Box. Each day, they offer a selection of cheese, bread, meat, and condiments in a box. This one was $7.50 and had two cheeses, salami, bread, fig jam, olives, pickles, and caponata. 

    Next door at Bacco's Fine Foods you can find sandwiches, hot meals, and everything you might want for a day outside enjoying the best of a Boston event.

    Cambridge Central Square

    This is becoming a true food destination and not just for all the great restaurants located there. 

    central bottle wine + provisions will be open on the 4th and is great for those who'll be coming to the river from the North. They have a great selection of cheese, salumi, and an ever changing daily food selection.

    The new H-Mart in Central Square said they are open every day of the year including July 4th. This makes the Food Court a prime spot for gathering a great picnic to take to the river.

    On days other than this holdiay, you can add a great dessert to your basket from flour bakery + cafe next door. (We called and confirmed that flour is closed on the 4th.)

    Beacon Hill

    Savenor's Market built its reputation on excellent meat but they have always offered a fine selection of other food. Now, the Cambridge Market has a deli, and they are delivering "Grab & Go" sandwiches to the Charles Street store, so that you can pop in on your way to an event and walk out with everything you want.

    Other favorite picnic pick-up locations from Charles Street are: The Paramount, and Panificio. And for great healty snacks stop at the new Fastachi shop at 83 Charles Street.

    Boston Common

    There is now some good food right on the Common. You'll find a Clover Food Lab truck stationed by the newly restored Brewer Plaza for long hours each day. There is also The Frog Pond Cafe in-season with some very nice options.

    Across from the Common is the Thinking Cup, as we mentioned above. This cafe has built a solid reputation on its outstanding coffee service but it also has great sandwiches and pastry.

    Keep these in mind when you plan your Shakespeare on the Common evening this year.

    Waterfront & North End

    Gathering food in the North End is a regular habit of ours. We love Salumeria Italiana and will often pick up a quick meal from their offerings.

    If we want prepared foods, we head for J. Pace & Son where they can fill your cooler with sandwiches, salads, calzones, and other Italian favorites. And, they also have shops in the West End and Seaport. 

    We love the recent addition of good Mexican food from Tenoch at 3 Lewis Street in the North End. We found it perfect for a picnic in Christopher Columbus Park.

    Along the Greenway, there is an ever changing collection of food trucks and carts for meals and snacks. They have a schedule posted here. You can consult our food truck tab to learn more about some of the rolling restaurants. 

    We've given you a start and told you about the places we go and enjoy. Tell us about your favorite places to enjoy an event or a meal, and where you love to go to pick up your food. 

    What's on your Summer Fun shopping list? Shop Amazon – Get Ready for Summer – Everything You Need and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2012 Penny & Ed Cherubino