Time to make reservations, if you plan to treat Dad to a meal out on Father's Day, Sunday, June 17, 2012.

Would your Dad love to get his hands into some great BBQ at Sweet Cheeks Q?
For Father's Day dining ideas, here are two excellent lists of restaurant suggestions.
Open Table always does a great job guiding you to the right reservation. What's more, you can just click through and reserve from this list.
Boston Chef's has a special list from their members. Updated info: June 10th!
Our picks:
On chowhound recently, one contributor said that, "Island Creek is the one to beat these days…" We agree. In our opinion, Island Creek Oyster Bar sets the standard for relaxed, comfortable dining with outstanding food and great cocktail and wine programs. We haven't given them nearly as much coverage as we should, considering how much we like the place. Here's a post from their early days, and they continue to set the bar high. So, if you want a table there, call right now.
Sweet Cheeks Q in the Fenway may seem to be just for the meat lovers in the clan, but they put out some great veggies and a tray of hot and cold scoops (as they call them) with a remarkable farm salad that will put a smile on any one with a preference for vegetarian fare. And, remember to order the crazy-good biscuits. (You may want to treat Dad to a doggie bag of them for the rest of the week!) Check out our Sweet Cheeks posts:
Sweet Cheeks BBQ: A First Look
Sweet Cheeks Q- Great Northern Brisket
Salt & Pepper Potatoes at Sweet Cheeks Q
Bourbon Beer? at Sweet Cheeks
How about simple Italian-American food in a very comfortable setting. We suggest Artu in the North End or on Charles Street in Beacon Hill. Here's one of our favorite menu items.
If you'd like to treat Dad to something really special, consider the ultimate hamburger at the Bristol Lounge at the Four Season's Hotel. Lunch there for just the two of you, some quiet afternoon, could be a great IOU if you can't be together on the 17th. Here's what we wrote about that burger.
Another great spot to share a meal, any day of the week, is Coppa in the South End. You can even top off your meal with a quick shopping trip to South End Formaggio across the street. We always do! And, that will let you create a super take-home gift that Dad can help select. Need more convincing? Take a look at:
Friday Lunch at Coppa, an Italian Seduction
Coppa Italian Grinder: A Best Bite
Coppa- A First Look
And, if you're thinking of adventure and the South End, how about a guided tour of the food trucks gathered at the SOWA Open Market each Sunday. No resevations needed! Check out:
SOWA Market: Where to Find Food Trucks!
And, for the best gift, let Dad choose something from his wish list. Get an Amazon gift card
! You can send it by email or print it out to tuck into a greeting card. And, if he doesn't shop online, offer to sit with your Dad and take him on an Amazon shopping trip.
Details:
Writers: Penny & Ed Cherubino
Photography: © 2012 Penny Cherubino
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