Stuff Boston : Shopping

Gone More Than Fishing

Tamara Wieder — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 17:07:00 GMT

Adventure gifts for the fearless on your list

Me, I'm an armchair adventurer. Sure, I jumped out of an airplane once. But I’m also the girl who screamed “When will it be over?” throughout my one and only rollercoaster ride, and the person who literally keeps the home fires burning in the slopeside condo while my friends are whizzing down the mountain. Were it not captured on video, I might even doubt that my afternoon of skydiving ever took place at all.

Still, I recognize that there are (crazy) people out there who actually enjoy the rush of adrenaline that comes from speed, turbulence, and pushing limits. For them, try these appropriately adventurous gifts on for terror — er, size.

Fight and flight
For Top Gun viewers who were more smitten with the flight scenes than with Tom Cruise, it’s actually possible to be a fighter pilot for a day through Air Combat USA. N simulator, no experience, no license: just show up, get briefed at ground school, and hop into a light-attack-fighter with an instructor. Once airborne, you’ll have an opponent to out-maneuver and out-gun. “We’re talking about six Gs of pure rock and roll in the sky,” boasts Air Combat’s press materials. Shoreline Aviation (Marshfield Airport, 93 Old Colony Lane, Marshfield) hosts two local Air Combat weekends in 2009: June 13 through 15 and September 26 through 28. The cost is $1395 for Phase I Basic Flight Maneuvers, which includes multiple dogfights and a digital video of your experience. Call 800.522.7590 or visit www.aircombat.com for more information and to book.

Tunnel vision
Why wait for the perfect weather conditions to go skydiving? At SkyVenture (3 Poisson Avenue, Nashua, New Hampshire, 603.897.0002), thrill-seekers can experience the same freedom of flight and freefall in an indoor vertical wind tunnel. After a 20-minute training class, suit up and head into the flight chamber with an instructor; when it’s your turn, you’ll fly in the same tunnel where many skydiving teams do their training. Prices start at $48 for a two-minute flight; call 888.SKYVENTURE or visit www.skyventurenh.com for information.

Ice, ice, baby
If you like your ice in more than just cocktails, bundle up and head north to Eastern Mountain Sports Climbing School (1498 White Mountain Highway, North Conway, New Hampshire, 800.310.4504) for an ice-climbing course. For $140, you’ll learn about the equipment, including boots and crampons; how to tie in and belay; and, perhaps most important, how to stay warm. Then you’ll get a day of ice-climbing on a frozen waterfall. A maximum of three people are scheduled for groups; if you want even more personalized attention, opt for a private class for $250. Call 800.310.4504 or visit www.emsclimb.com for reservations and information.

Kites of fancy
Know someone who isn’t content — as I am — to simply watch the swooping kitesurfers in Pleasure Bay? Boston Kite School (8 Winthrop Avenue, Quincy, 617.331.3786) is the answer. From mid-May through the end of October, the school offers private and group kitesurfing lessons featuring instruction in piloting a trainer kite on land ($125; classes are held in Revere) and instruction in water skills ($200; held in Falmouth). The Ride the Wind Package ($299) includes five hours of lessons both on land and in the water; you’ll be harnessing the power of the ocean and the wind in no time. After May 15, ccall 617.331.3786 or visit www.bostonkiteschool.com for information and to book.

Need for speed
Just because one doesn’t live in the Deep South doesn’t mean one doesn’t have a NASCAR jones. For those who’d love nothing more than to buckle up and hit the gas without the — yawn — restriction of a pace car, there’s the Racing School (877.CAN.RACE), which allows drivers to get behind the wheel of a Nextel Cup racecar for anywhere from eight to 240 laps — depending on how much cash you want to shell out, of course. On April 21 and 22, the Racing School sets up shop at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway (1122 Route 106 North, Loudon, New Hampshire); on June 14, you’ll find them at the Seekonk Speedway (1710 Fall River Avenue, Seekonk). Either way, expect classroom instruction followed by burning rubber. Call 877.CAN.RACE or visit www.theracingschool.com for info.

Current Events

Erin Souza — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 16:53:00 GMT

In tough economic times, turn your over-the-top holiday bash into something more reasonable — without sparing the staples

We hate to be the Grinch who stole your holiday hope, but we have to be honest: in a time of economic uncertainty, you can be sure about one thing: ’tis the season to be frugal. But that doesn’t mean you have to forgo the festivities in lieu of a financial-woes pity party. We scoured the city for some cheap-but-chic party necessities, then checked in with events guru Bryan Rafanelli for pointers on how to make the most of what we found.

>>Click here to find out how to throw a party on any budget<<

Wannabe Wishlists

Erin Souza — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:51:00 GMT

>>Click here for the Wannabe Wishlists slideshow<<

What to get for the guy who wishes he was in a rock band? How about the girl who wants to be the next Rachel Zoe? We've taken the guesswork out of your holiday shopping by compiling some ideas for what to buy the aspiring jetsetter, fashionista, musician, chef, and domestic diva on your list.

Text by Erin Souza
Illustrations by Kevin Banks

A Real Trip

Erin Byers Murray — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 02:10:00 GMT

Having grown up in Cambridge, Jessica Good, a frequent traveler, thought it was only logical to open her travel boutique, Passport, in the heart of Harvard Square. The store is stocked with easily packable gear and clothing, most of which she’s tested personally over the course of her own journeys. Now that she’s a store owner, her passport is getting a much-needed rest and she has an excuse to spend her nights hanging out around Harvard Square.

@ 6:15 p.m.: I’ll still be shutting down the store and locking up. I’ve been trying to get my friends over to the Square because there’s so much to do, so I’ll have them meet me at the store before we head out.

@ 7:30 p.m.: I like to eat pretty late, so first we’ll do something fun, like take in a movie at the Brattle Theatre in Cambridge. I love old movies and they just did a Bette Davis series.

@ 9:45 p.m.: Afterward, we like to go to Z Square, especially while the patio is still open. They have the best crêpes, all different kinds, so we’ll split a couple, both savory and dessert ones. And they have great key lime martinis.

@ midnight: From there, I might head over to Charlie’s Kitchen and hang out for a couple beers in their beer garden if it’s nice.

@ 2 a.m.: I’m a late-night person and would probably come home and check my work email. My two best friends usually come back and hang out at our place, so we’ll have one more drink before bed. Then, eventually, we’ll crash.

Man up! 10 ways to be a better guy in Boston

Heather Bouzan — Mon, 19 May 2008 17:41:00 GMT

Yes, we realize you can down 12 tequila shots without puking, score any phone number you desire, and burp the alphabet backward. But how ’bout a little self-improvement once in a while? Keep reading for tips on how to be a better man in Boston (though we certainly won’t frown on the occasional selfish splurge or six-cocktail evening).

1. Learn something. Yes, your comprehensive knowledge of Seinfeld plot lines and baseball stats count for
something, but your material is getting a smidge tired. We’re not suggesting you load up on organic chemistry or advanced calculus classes after a long day at the office. Instead, immerse yourself in a subject you’ve long been interested in learning more about. Always felt you were a budding Picasso? The Museum of Fine Arts (465 Huntington Avenue, Boston,
617.267.9300) offers art classes for guys like you — and yes, there are options for a variety of skill levels. If you’re the wordy type, try a one-night seminar or a weekend workshop at Grub Street (160 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.695.0075). Topics range from “Surviving the Slush Pile” (June 28 and 29) to “Writing Sex Scenes” (June 7). And for a more formal education, there’s always the namedropworthy Harvard Extension School (51 Brattle Street, Cambridge, 617.495.4024).

2. Volunteer. There are so many opportunities to do good in this city — purchasing admission to some big-ticket charity gala, giving an hour a week through a Big Brother or Big Sister mentoring program, spearheading a campaign aimed at effecting positive change — that it’s difficult for us to single out one worthy group. It’s up to you to figure out what kind of time you’re willing to give (and yes, no matter how crazy your work schedule, you’ve got at least a few hours to spare each month). Then decide what kinds of skills you can bring to the table and how your personal interests and hobbies might translate into doing some good for someone else. Say you turned your English major into a lucrative finance job but you miss dreaming up quirky characters and intricate plot lines. Why not join up with 826 Boston (www.826boston.org), whose mission is to get young students writing? Totally nostalgic for your days as a highschool lacrosse star? Look into MetroLacrosse (www.metrolacrosse.com), which provides innercity youth with opportunities to play the game. If you’re feeling totally overwhelmed and aimless, try connecting with a broader organization like Boston Cares (www.bostoncares. com), which organizes hundreds of different volunteer opportunities each month.

3. Get yourself a good pair of shoes. Hint: girls can tell when your shoes cost under $30 a pair (and even the girls who love a good bargain won’t respect you for wearing them). Think leather, preferably from somewhere in Italy. Looking for some professional guidance? March yourself into the men’s shoe department at Saks Fifth Avenue (800 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.262.8500) and ask for Christopher Harrison. He knows exactly what he’s talking about when it comes to men’s fashion, and if you’re a pricyshoe novice, he won’t lead you astray. You might also peruse Harvard Square’s The Tannery (11A Brattle Street, Cambridge, 617.491.0810).

4. Take your mother to lunch. When it comes to appeasing Mom, a little effort goes a long way. Call her up (yes, use the phone) and invite her to lunch some Saturday afternoon. Wear something nice, don’t you dare arrive hung over, and put some thought into where you take her. We suggest peoplewatching from the patio at Stephanie’s (190 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.236.0990), taking in the fizzy pink-and-green décor of the Monday Club Bar at UpStairs on the Square (91 Winthrop Street, Cambridge, 617.864.1933), or tucking into something lovely and French at Petit Robert Bistro (468 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.375.0699; 480 Columbus Avenue, Boston, 617.867.0600). Be sure she orders dessert, and bonus points if you allow her to grill you about your job/finances/ relationship status/eating habits.

5. Remember your pleases and thank yous. Go that extra mile to express your gratitude and people will notice. Your mother will be proud. You’ll start to be known as that really nice guy who always says “thanks.” And knock it off with the f-bombs while you’re at it. This isn’t a pub.

6. Take a break from the weight room. We understand that assuming the Downward Facing Dog pose doesn’t go over well with a lot of men, but for your sanity’s sake, give yoga a shot and prove all the towel-snapping meatheads you usually work out with wrong. Two newish spots where we’d recommend getting your “om” on: North End Yoga (256 Hanover Street, Boston, 617.227.YOGA), a tranquil space you’d never expect in the middle of the city’s carboloading district, and South Boston Yoga (141 Dorchester Avenue, Boston, 617.292.0040), which incorporates green elements (it’s located in the übereco Macallen Building) into its practice. We promise you’ll emerge all calm and refreshed, no matter what your skill level. And worstcase scenario, you just spent an hour in a room full of athletic girls in spandex.

7. Clean up your act. A quick shower, a scratchy shave, and a few swipes of deodorant and you’re out the door. But now that you’re no longer sloshing around in puddles and rooting around in the dirt (on a daily basis, anyway), we think it’s time you step your grooming rituals up a notch. Get the grit out from under your nails with the Sports Manicure ($30) and Sports Pedicure ($65) in the Men’s Club at Emerge (275 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.437.0006). If you’re feeling a bit more daring, give the 60-minute Gentleman’s Facial ($80) at Spa Christine (699 East Broadway, South Boston, 617.269.0019) a go. If you’re not up for the challenge, at least spring for the indulgent Hot Lather Shave ($34) at State Street Barbers (1313 Washington Street, Boston, 617.753.9990), where the professionals surely do it far better than you do. For more tips (nothing scary, we promise), see this issue’s dedicated-to-the-boys Primp column.

8. Surprise her with flowers. And not because you screwed up and forgot some anniversary, like last time. Send them to her office just because. Jealous coworkers translate to a very happy girlfriend. And come the next social eventwith her colleagues, you’re a total hero. Keep Winston Flowers (various locations, 800.457.4901) on speed dial.

9. Learn your way around a nice bottle of wine. Nose-in-the-air wine snobs are a total turn-off, but a guy who knows a little something about wine — or at least expresses an interest and asks the right questions — is markedly more interesting than your average shotslugging dude. A formal education isn’t necessary, though the Boston Wine School (1354 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.784.7150) and the Boston Center for Adult Education (5 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.267.4430) hold unique classes that are as much extracurricular enjoyment as they are higher learning. You can also turn your schooling into an out-of-the-box date night with a wine tasting, like the “Wine Wednesday” dinners held at Sel de la Terre (255 State Street, Boston, 617.720.1300) every week. Or, even more informally, score a quick lesson as you’re grabbing a bottle to bring home for dinner: BRIX Wine Shop (1284 Washington Street, Boston, 617.542 BRIX ext. 1; 105 Broad Street, Boston, 617.542.BRIX ext. 2) is known for its knowledgeable staff, and the North End’s Wine Bottega (341 Hanover Street, Boston, 617.227.6607) is a good go-to when you’re looking to learn a little something about what you’re drinking.

10. Upgrade your frathouse-chic décor. Face it: those tackedup band posters and scratchy, stained sheets aren’t sending the right message to the ladies who visit your humble abode (though if you’re hoping to avoid a second date, maybe you’re on to something). There’s no need to pair floral prints and frilly doilies with your bigscreen TV and Pats memorabilia, but swing by West Elm (160 Brookline Avenue, Boston, 617.450.9500) for some basics. They’re known for classic shapes with an interesting twist, and their frillfree, quasiminimalist style is perfect for men. The arty Design Within Reach (519 Tremont Street, Boston, 617.451.7801; 1030 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617.576.3690) and sophisticated Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams (142 Berkeley Street, Boston, 617.266.0075) are resources for larger pieces, and Vessel (125 Kingston Street, Boston, 617.292.0982) stocks accessories infused with quirky style. South End standby Lekker (1317 Washington Street, Boston, 617.542.6464) is the place to score place settings and other kitchen accessories, while men looking to add an ecoelement to their place should buzz over to Greenward (1776 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617.395.1338). And remember: it’s all in the details. Go see Doug Palardy at Motley (623 Tremont Street, Boston, 617.247.6969); along with apparel, his store is stocked with all sorts of cool, guyfriendly knickknacks. And yes, we’ll even allow you a maximum of three IKEA (1 IKEA Way, Stoughton, 781.344.IKEA) purchases, okay? Choose wisely.

In Recovery: The holidays are finally over. Here’s how to unwind and chill out, stat.

Heather Bouzan — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:54:00 GMT

ALL THE THINGS we love about the holidays - the expensive bottles of wine, the multi-course meals, the fancy soirées that end with breakfast - are also the things that leave us bleary-eyed, pudgy, and hating ourselves come the season's proverbial "morning after." As much as it pains us to admit it, even we find ourselves craving a few nights in, a simple salad ... in a word, a little detox. So here's a roundup of nightspots, spa treatments, classes, and cultural activities that give our puffy lids time to shrink and our livers a chance to regenerate. Trust us, after a few calm days and quiet nights, you'll be yanking your Louboutins out of the back of your closet rejuvenated and ready to make your re-entry onto the social scene.

raising the bar on relaxing
Yes, we said we wanted to chill out - but we never purported to swear off drinking entirely. Instead of heading to the city's latest hotspot only to endure long lines, cramped bars, and far too many air kisses, we recommend a low-key hangout where you can disappear into a corner with a well-mixed drink and - if you're feeling social - a chatty friend. We love the way the low-lit, bookish Washington Square Tavern (714 Washington Street, Brookline, 617.232.8989) quiets us upon entering; once the bartender slides us a glass of wine from a well-chosen list, we've all but melted into our stool. There aren't many bars in this city where we'd hang solo, but this is one of them. A quick cab or T ride down Beacon Street is Audubon Circle (838 Beacon Street, Boston, 617.421.1910), where we can't help but feel as relaxed and casual as the clientele - no buttoned-up business types here. Cambridge Common (1667 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617.547.1228) has always been a comforting spot to grab a post-work beer without the nuisance of eager, chatty singles, and we've always felt at home at Clery's cousin Brownstone (111 Dartmouth Street, Boston, 617.867.4142), with its slightly older, slightly more sober crowd. Another option? Hit your favorite nightspots when it's - the horror! - still light out. Alibi (Liberty Hotel, 215 Charles Street, Boston, 617.224.4000), still new and hot enough to be mobbed at peak hours, envelops us in its basement calm on off nights, and 28 Degrees (One Appleton Street, Boston, 617.728.0728) is an early-evening treat.

lose the booze
If your holiday revelries have left you unable look at another alcoholic beverage without needing to hightail it to the restroom, plenty of local bartenders have created mocktails with you - and your hard-drinking reputation - in mind. Want to enjoy Sushi Teq (InterContinental, 510 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, 617.747.1000) without indulging in the latter half of the restaurant's moniker? Pair your spicy tuna rolls and salmon sashimi with booze-free margaritas offered in lush, fruity flavors, including Blackberry Mango ($6) and Blood Orange Strawberry ($6). Meanwhile, the doting bartenders at Eastern Standard (528 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.532.9100) have devoted a whole section of their cocktail list to non-alcoholic tipples. The Stormy Monday ($5), a ginger-beer-based beverage, can assuage even the queasiest of stomachs, and the Sophisticated Lady ($5), which melds cranberry and cucumber, is just that. And we love the connotations of the Lemmy Tum Tum ($5), described as a "cure for what ails you." If even those are too close to the real stuff for comfort, find solace in a pot of peppermint tea - or another of more than 25 varieties - offered at the 1369 Coffee House (1369 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, 617.576.1369; 757 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617.576.4600), with locations in Inman and Central squares. They're open later than most coffee shops, too, boasting hours until 10 or 11 p.m. nightly.

weighty issues
If it's sustenance you desire, we can only assume that it's the light, low-fat stuff you're looking for after the gluttony that is December. Forgo rich, creamy dishes for tastes from the raw bar at Neptune Oyster (63 Salem Street, Boston, 617.742.3474) or East Coast Grill (1271 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, 617.491.6568), and sate your sweet tooth with the super-fresh Watermelon and Feta Tidbit appetizer ($7.95) at Vlora (545 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.638.9699). Eateries like Harvest (44 Brattle Street, Cambridge, 617.868.2255), Garden at the Cellar (991 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617.230.5880), and Craigie Street Bistrot (5 Craigie Circle, Cambridge, 617.497.5511) are known for their natural, wholesome takes on fresh, simple foods with big flavors, and we've long admired the merits of the salad selection at the Metropolitan Club (1210 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, 617.731.0600). And as we reported earlier in this issue, keep an eye out for the ultimate in detoxifying dishes with the opening of Alissa Cohen's new raw restaurant, Grezzo (69 Prince Street, Boston).

gym dandies
We've always subscribed to the idea that the best way to cure a hangover (no matter that this one has lasted weeks) is to sweat it out. We all have our favorite trainer - or the neighborhood gym to which we've vowed to devote our lives come January 1 - but there are other ways to supplement those hours on the elliptical machine. To get the booze oozing out of your pores quickly, turn up the heat, literally, with a Bikram yoga class. With the average temperature cranked up to 105 degrees and 40 percent humidity, you won't leave the class dry - but you will emerge incredibly clear-headed and cleansed. A number of classes are offered daily at Bikram Yoga Boston (108 Lincoln Street, Loft 1A, Boston, 617.556.9926) and Bikram Yoga Harvard Square (30 JFK Street, Second Floor, Cambridge, 617.54.SWEAT). If you're in need of a little extra oomph (i.e., you'll talk yourself out of that workout with the slightest provocation), we suggest plunging in headfirst with a session at Ultimate Bootcamp (www.ultimatebootcamp.com; 617.787.1224). The program kicks off '08 with a six-week class held outdoors on Boston Common Monday through Thursday mornings beginning on January 7. For less hardy folk, indoor sessions begin on January 7 and February 25. After a few workouts, you won't even think about sleeping through that early-morning wake-up call. Finally, mixing things up with your gym's group fitness classes is always beneficial. Not only will you work muscles you likely never knew you had, you'll also be less inclined to allow yourself an out when the going gets tough - especially when the post-menopausal woman with Madonna arms next to you is crunching her abs double-time. Each gym has its own roster of offerings, some more creative than others (think stripper-pole workouts, samba dancing, ass-class); one of the more innovative and imaginative of the bunch is Equinox (131 Dartmouth Street, Boston, 617.578.8918), which debuts new classes including "Hardbody Meltdown" (exaggerated step-training), "Red Carpet Ready" (covering cardio and toning, plus confidence, poise, and grace), and "Temple Dance" (sexy, exotic moves to world music) in January.

spaaah!
If your definition of "sweating it out" involves a stint in the steam room after a spa treatment, we have some less active (yet still rejuvenating) options worth exploring. Heat up with a 75-minute Hot Stone Massage ($100) at Inman Oasis (243 Hampshire Street, Cambridge, 617.491.0176) - the rocks work wonders on a fatigued body - followed by a soothing soak in one of the wellness center's hot tubs. If you'd rather scrub away your demons, try the Urban Renewal Exfoliating Facial ($125) at G Spa (35 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.267.4772), which incorporates cleansing enzymes; exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids; and hydrating cranberry, pomegranate, and green-tea moisturizers. If your eyelids are puffy from too many carbs, too much booze, and too little sleep, head to Pyara (104 Mt. Auburn Street, Cambridge, 617.497.9300) for the Revitalizing Eye Treatment ($35; $25 as a spa enhancement), while people looking for a full-body experience might do well to invest in the Sea Foam Head-to-Toe Body Ritual ($265) at Bella Santé (38 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.424.9930), featuring two hours of re-mineralizing, oxygenizing masques, scrubs, and creams.

it's academic
Don't be afraid to get studious about your detoxing. The Cambridge Center for Adult Education (42 Brattle Street, Cambridge, 617.547.6789) offers evening and weekend classes in subjects as diverse as "Introduction to Decoupage" (beginning January 15) and "Greek Philosophy" (beginning January 16); visit www.ccae.org to browse the winter course catalog. If you've been itching to put pen to paper and engage in more literary pursuits, enliven your prose with one of the themed writing workshops at Grub Street (160 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.695.0075). Updated listings are posted at www.grubstreet.org. Food and wine education more your speed? The latest addition to the Barbara Lynch empire, Stir (102 Waltham Street, Boston, 617.423.STIR), offers classes with a sophisticated take on both, including an introduction to chenin blanc on January 7 and, on January 8 and 9, instruction on how to assemble Lynch's "No. 9 Classics" such as prune-stuffed gnocchi and steak tartare. And the Boston Wine School (1354 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.784.7150) leaves no bottle uncorked in its quest for vino wisdom.

art attack
If you crave culture's more social side, Boston has a wealth of opportunities. The ICA (100 Northern Avenue, Boston, 617.478.3100) offers date-worthy programming that swaps late nights at the bar for lectures, films, and performance pieces that inspire discussion. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (280 The Fenway, Boston, 617.566.1401) appeals to a young, savvy crowd with its "Gardner After Hours" events every third Thursday of the month; on January 17, attend "People and Portraits," which includes a drawing session, tours of the museum's portrait collection, and, for an additional fee, the Boston debut performance of the International Contemporary Ensemble in "Composer Portraits: Music of Magnus Lindberg." And cultural veterans like the Museum of Fine Arts (465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, 617.267.9300) and the Museum of Science (Science Park, Boston, 617.723.2500) have also stepped it up in an attempt to appeal to more than just big-name donors and grade-school field trippers. The MFA has made a name for itself as an edgy live music venue, and it also sponsors mfafirstfridays cocktail events and "Winesday" wine tastings on the last Wednesday of every month; the scientifically minded can find romance in the Museum of Science's planetarium or rock out to Zeppelin, U2, the Beatles, and Metallica at a laser show. And there's always the cool, dark, hangover-dulling sanctuary of a movie theater: the Somerville Theatre (55 Davis Square, Somerville, 617.625.5700), the Coolidge Corner Theatre (290 Harvard Street, Brookline, 617.734.2500), the Harvard Film Archive (24 Quincy Street, Cambridge, 617.495.4700), and the Brattle Theatre (40 Brattle Street, Cambridge, 617.876.6838) all have eclectic offerings. @

[Photos by Kelly Davidson]

Dine.dance.lounge: New nightlife fashion

Erica Corsano — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 21:37:00 GMT

On Carly: ruffle shirt, $210 at Reiss. 18th Amendment jeans, $218; Madison Marcus cropped leather jacket, $485; Michael Kors clutch, $395; and Kenneth Jay Lane ring, $150; all at Intermix. Belt, stylist’s own. On Johann: striped sweater, $170; striped button-down, $170; and jeans, $155; both at Reiss.

On Johann: Ambiguous T-shirt, $39 at Uniform. Gray jeans, $185 at Reiss. On Carly: dress, $180; and purse, $140, both at Reiss. Kenneth Jay Lane ring, $175 at Intermix.

On Carly: Delman shoes, $595; and Stella McCartney dress, $565; both at Intermix. Belt, $155 at Reiss. Ring, stylist’s own. On Johann: Ambiguous T-shirt, $39; Crate Denim jeans, $170; and Triple 5 Soul jacket, $215; all at Uniform. Hooded T-shirt, $100 at Reiss.

Pillow courtesy of West Elm.

Photographed by Jeff Smith
Styled by Erica Corsano
Models: Carly and Johann of Maggie Inc.
Makeup by Kerri Herlihy
Hair by Derek Yuem of James Joseph Studio
Assisted by Dejan Djordjevic

Change up

Heather Bouzan — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 21:23:00 GMT

THE NIGHTLIFE rut: it’s a common affliction. Your summer spent traipsing all over Nantucket, Kennebunkport, and the Cape — plus Tuscany, if you’re one of the lucky ones — makes your usual haunts in Boston pale in comparison. Instead of giving in and heading to your usual bar stool for the fourth night this week, let us help: we have the tips you need to make over your nightlife in just 30 evenings out.

MP3: Heather Bouzan talks to WFNX about spending 30 nights out in Boston (right-click, save-as)

Night 1: Explore a new neighborhood. So much of your scene is determined by where you live, and it’s easy to forgo traveling in favor of a familiar local spot. But tonight, get out of your comfort zone. If you generally never set foot outside of Cambridge, experience the Southie scene: sip a cocktail at the Playwright (658 East Broadway, South Boston, 617.269.2537), then test your tolerance against the locals at the Boston Beer Garden (732 East Broadway, South Boston, 617.269.0990). Never thought you’d leave Brookline? Explore what the South End has to offer: try the Franklin Café (278 Shawmut Avenue, Boston, 617.350.0010), the Beehive (541 Tremont Street, Boston, 617.423.0069), and, if you can stumble over in time for last call, Clerys (113 Dartmouth Street, Boston, 617.262.9874). If you’ve never hung around for a post-cannoli cocktail in the North End, hop from the Waterfront (450 Commercial Street, Boston, 617.523.0613) to the Sail Loft (80 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, 617.227.7280) to the Living Room (101 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, 617.723.5101).

Night 2: Dance — no matter how many drinks it takes you. (Our magic number? Somewhere in the vicinity of six.) Have as much liquid courage as you need, then get out there and shake it. Trust us: you’ll have a good time. Some of our favorite spots to showcase our moves include The Estate (1 Boylston Place, Boston, 617.351.7000), Avalon (15 Lansdowne Street, Boston, 617.262.2424), and Rumor (100 Warrenton Street, Boston, 617.482.6958).

Night 3: Splurge for VIP status. It may not be how you roll on a regular basis, but mingling with the pretty people behind the velvet ropes is an experience you should have at least once. The specifics vary by club and by night, but there’ll usually be a table charge, a minimum order, or some sort of mandatory bottle service that’ll get you in. If you can’t swing it on your own, gather a few friends together and split the fee — just think of it as an advance on all the free drinks you’ll score later from the moneyed VIP regulars. For the hook-up, touch base with some of Boston’s nightlife legends: 6one7 Productions (www.6one7productions.com), East Coast Clubs (www.eastcoastclubs.com), or Two35 Entertainment (www.235ent
.com).

Night 4: Host a rager. If your nightlife’s in a rut, might as well take things into your own hands, right? Get a keg of cheap beer, some bottom-of-the-line vodka, and a refrigerator’s worth of boxed wine, and host an authentic college-style soirée complete with flip-cup, beer pong, and plastic cups. Then E-vite your entire address book and prepare to party until the cops come. And this time, you’re old enough to hire a cleaning service to take care of the morning-after mess. (Dealing with the guy you wake up next to is still your problem.)

Night 5: Relive the ’80s. Even (and especially) if you weren’t old enough to party during the day-glo decade, make like it’s 1985 and spend your evening whooping it up to the sounds of Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Bon Jovi. A good number of bars and clubs host ’80s nights, but we’re loving local ’80s cover band Fast Times. They often play at the Grand Canal (57 Canal Street, Boston, 617.523.1112), Hennessy’s (25 Union Street, Boston, 617.742.2121), and Paddy O’s (33 Union Street, Boston, 617.263.7771); visit www.fasttimes.biz for a list of the band’s upcoming gigs. Bonus points if you wear something stonewashed.

Night 6: Discover your signature cocktail. It’s like your order at Starbucks — nonfat, no-foam, mocha-frappa-latte, anyone? — only much more fun. Everyone should have a signature cocktail: a drink that you order, exactly to your liking, every time you’re out. It should fit your personality and be equal parts obscure and hip. On a low-key night out, sit down with a bartender you trust, ask him or her for suggestions, and experiment. Soon enough, no one will recognize you without an [insert cocktail here] in hand.

Night 7: Participate in some bar athletics. It could be nothing more than a few raucous rounds of Photo Hunt, but you’ll be surprised what a few “drinking games” can add to your standard night out. If you’re in need of inspiration, try retro-bowling at the Milky Way (403–405 Centre Street, Jamaica Plain, 617.524.3740), hitting the pool tables at Jillian’s (145 Ipswich Street, Boston, 617.437.0300), or mounting the mechanical bull at Liquor Store (25 Boylston Place, Boston, 617.357.6800). Burning calories while you booze — what could be better?

Night 8: Participate in a wine tasting. Instead of just guzzling down glass after glass, learn a little something about what you’re drinking. Sommeliers all over the city are just waiting to enlighten you on the ins and outs of a good wine. Wine Mondays begin at 7 p.m. weekly at L’Espalier (30 Gloucester Street, Boston, 617.262.3023), while the Ashmont Grill (555 Talbot Avenue, Dorchester, 617.825.4300) hosts its Monday Night Wine Club in a more casual setting. It’s also worth checking out class schedules at the Boston Wine School (1354 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.784.7150), Gordon’s Fine Wine and Culinary Center (894 Main Street, Waltham, 781.893.1900), and Barbara Lynch’s new demonstration kitchen, Stir (102 Waltham Street, Boston, 617.423.STIR). Another option: host your own wine tasting. Ask guests to bring bottles they love, and sip away.

Night 9: Can you say karaoke? So what if it’s possibly the most cliché drinking activity out there? Nothing says “drunken good time” like belting out “Piano Man” onstage in front of a crowd of strangers. There are plenty of weekly karaoke nights; we like a venue dedicated solely to karaoke: Limelight Stage & Studios (204 Tremont Street, Boston, 617.423.0785).

Night 10: Make out in a bar bathroom. Need we say more?

Night 11: Hit a bar alone. It’s one of those things everyone should try — like solo dining, going to the movies alone, and traveling stag. Settle in with a book or magazine; grab a snack if you need something to do with your hands. Most important, be open to chatting with fellow barflies. After all, you never know who might be lingering on a neighboring stool. A few bars where we wouldn’t mind hanging out sans companions include Bricco (241 Hanover Street, Boston, 617.248.6800), No. 9 Park (9 Park Street, Boston, 617.742.9991), and the Washington Square Tavern (714 Washington Street, Brookline, 617.232.8989).

Night 12: Shots! Forgo the standard salt-tequila-lime combo in favor of more interesting concoctions. The Banderita ($7) at Masa (439 Tremont Street, Boston, 617.338.8884) is taken as a trio: a shot of tequila, a swing of lime juice, and a swallow of tomato-based sangrita. Or peruse the drink list at Eastern Standard (528 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.532.9100), where the selection of nine shots includes the Stardust and the Green Monster ($6 each).

Night 13: Pull an all-nighter. We know Boston is seriously lacking when it comes to options past 2 a.m., but do what it takes to party — literally — until the sun comes up. Once the clubs close, everybody who’s in the know heads over to Rise (306 Stuart Street, Boston, 617.423.7473) for late-night, Red Bull–fueled festivities. It’s members-only, so you’ll need to score an invite, but that shouldn’t be too difficult for a socialite like you. If you’re looking for some sustenance to get you through till morning, we recommend the South Street Diner (178 Kneeland Street, Boston, 617.350.0028) for breakfast fare, and Bova’s Bakery (134 Salem Street, Boston, 617.523.5601) for the sweeter stuff.

Night 14: Slum it. Even the prissiest of partiers has to love a dive bar every once in a while. Feel free to head out in jeans and a T-shirt, and don’t you dare order anything but beer. Our favorite holes-in-the-wall include Bukowski Tavern (50 Dalton Street, Boston, 617.267.5028), the Cantab Lounge (738 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617.354.2685), and the Other Side Café (407 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.536.8437).

Night 15: Host a fancy cocktail party. We’re talking trays of signature martinis, passed appetizers (enlist your younger brother to play waiter), and mood music. Roof decks are ideal for these types of get-togethers, but any urban apartment will do — just dress it up with strategically placed pots of foliage and loads of candles or strings of tiny white lights. Be sure to wear something fabulous, and flit from group to group bearing conversation starters and air kisses. Pitchers of pre-mixed cocktails are key, too, along with a cabinet full of back-up booze.

Night 16: Watch the game in head-to-toe team regalia. It doesn’t matter if you’re an actual fan or just a fair-weather one; arrive in all of the Sox/Bruins/Celtics/Patriots attire you can scrounge up and be prepared to get into the game. We expect chugging every time somebody scores, not to mention obnoxious cheering and booing. After a few beers, you’ll forget that you never really understood the rules. You and your crowd will fit right in with the other die-hards at the Cask ’n Flagon (62 Brookline Avenue, Boston, 617.536.4840), Game On! (82 Lansdowne Street, Boston, 617.351.7001), the Sports Depot (353 Cambridge Street, Allston, 617.783.2300), and the Fours (166 Canal Street, Boston, 617.720.4455).

Night 17: Start drinking at brunch ... and don’t stop until last call. We recently ran a story on great cocktail options at brunches around the city (7.31.07), so take advantage of the chance to start early. A few possibilities: the Living Room (101 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, 617.723.5101), Tremont 647 (647 Tremont Street, Boston, 617.266.4600), and East Coast Grill (1271 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, 617.491.6568). Make a smooth transition from brunch cocktails to alfresco afternoon drinks to a pre-dinner apéritif, and so on. We dare you to make it straight through to 2 a.m., no naps allowed.

Night 18: Flirt with a bartender. Why not? Worst-case scenario, you could end up with a free drink. Best case, maybe a quickie in the kitchen after-hours.

Night 19: Participate in a sing-along. Feel free to start your own on the walk back to your apartment — though your neighbors might not be impressed. Or, take part in the Friday-night piano sing-alongs — songbooks provided — that are hosted weekly at Jacob Wirth’s (31–37 Stuart Street, Boston, 617.338.8586). Also, stop in at the Black Rose (160 State Street, Boston, 617.742.2286) for nightly live Irish music that inevitably turns into a room-wide chorus.

Night 20: Fake a celebration. So what if it’s not your birthday/bachelorette party/graduation/last day of work? Pretend it is, and let everyone else in the bar join the festivities. (We have a friend who owns a fake — and massive — diamond ring for just that occasion.) Revel in the free drinks, high-fives, and congratulatory words, and let your understanding friends steal the spotlight next time. Just be sure to stick to your story: if you’re getting married tomorrow, don’t expect to “cheat” on the groom with the busboy, or the jig is up.

Night 21: Take advantage of extended salon hours. We wish we could go all Hollywood and employ a stylist to get us ready every night, but unfortunately, that’s just not possible. Many salons, however, extend their hours on certain nights to service clients with tight schedules. Arrive dressed and ready to go, then head to your nighttime destination straight from your stylist’s chair. I Soci (8 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.867.9484) is open until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, while James Joseph Salon (30 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.266.7222) celebrates Late Night Thursdays until 9 p.m. The stylists at Shag (840 Summer Street, South Boston, 617.268.2500) can be convinced to hang around until 8 or 8:30 p.m. on Thursdays, and at Avanti (11 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.267.4027), drop by any Thursday for party music and sangria from 8 to 11 p.m.

Night 22: Do it on the roof. If you undertake this 30-day adventure before fall really sets in, you can take advantage of one of our favorite pastimes: rooftop drinking. If you lack roof access at home, we have a few suggestions: Ristorante Fiore (250 Hanover Street, Boston, 617.371.1176), the Black Rhino (21 Broad Street, Boston, 617.263.0101), the Rattlesnake (384 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.859.7772), and the Baseball Tavern (1270 Boylston Street, Boston, 617.867.6526). Too chilly? Search out the next best thing: heated patios.

Night 23: Party crash. Swathe yourself in something fabulous — there’s no way you’ll get kicked out if you’re the best-dressed person in the place — and schmooze your way in with a smile, a compliment, and, if necessary, a well-placed $20 bill. Whether it’s a corporate cocktail party or some VIP-only event, confidence is key. After all, if you can act like you belong, then you probably do. Stick to a simple story, and bow out with grace if you’re denied entrance. If you do make it inside, take full advantage of that open bar and the oh-so-inviting dance floor, and leave the crowd buzzing about the evening’s fabulous mystery guest.

Night 24: Indulge in some late-night fine-dining. Some people crave the grossest of junk foods when they’re afflicted with the drunk munchies, but we recommend taking it up a notch. A number of Boston’s most chic eateries offer late-night menus that rival anything available during the less-bleary hours. Sel de la Terre (255 State Street, Boston, 617.720.1300) serves a few choice dishes on Wednesday through Saturday evenings from 10 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Upscale North End eatery Lucca (226 Hanover Street, Boston, 617.742.9200) offers a late-night menu until 12:30 a.m. And Miel, the “Brasserie Provençal” at the InterContinental Boston (510 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, 617.747.1000), is open for business 24 hours.

Night 25: Play designated driver (or just chaperone), and watch your friends get sloshed around you. Sounds boring, but if you plan for it, it can be as amusing as getting tipsy yourself. Just be sure to initiate a no-puking rule — and take full advantage of your hangover-free self tomorrow.

Night 26: Scorpion bowls! We don’t know what it is about a bowl full of shady alcohols and questionable juices shared (totally un-hygienically, we might add) among a group of friends, but a scorpion bowl always manages to perk up an otherwise drab night out with a little bit of kitsch. We go for the multi-strawed drinks served in fishbowls at the Landing (Long Wharf, Boston, 617.227.4321) — still open, weather-permitting — and the signature bowls from the deliciously gritty Hong Kong (65 Chatham Street, Boston, 617.227.2226; 1236 Mass Ave, Cambridge, 617.864.5311).

Night 27: Wear something out of character. Everyone has their nightlife “look,” whether it’s jeans and flats, simple black dresses, or flowy tops and heels. For one night only, change things up. Go indie-rock chick in skinny denim, or try something super-short or low-cut-down-to-there if you’re normally the conservative type. Purveyors of “disposable clothing” like H&M (100 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.859.3192), Forever 21 (South Shore Plaza, 250 Granite Street, Braintree, 781.843.2509), and, if you scour the clearance racks, Urban Outfitters (361 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.236.0088) make it easy — and affordable — to try something outside your comfort zone. You’ll feel like a new person, and who knows? Maybe it’ll become a permanent addition to your signature style.

Night 28: Become a groupie. Channel Kate Hudson and the Band-Aids in Almost Famous, then choose an up-and-coming local musician as the new object of your obsession. Arrive early to secure your front-row spot, and after the band’s set, flirt, schmooze, or buy your way backstage for a personal meet-and-greet with your new favorite. We suggest starting small at more intimate venues like the Paradise Lounge (969 Comm Ave, Boston, 617.562.8800), Johnny D’s (17 Holland Street, Somerville, 617.776.2004), or Club Passim (47 Palmer Street, Cambridge, 617.492.7679); you’ll probably have more luck, and lesser-known artists will be more appreciative of your affection.

Night 29: Buy someone (preferably attractive) a drink. It can’t hurt, right? Even if you’re attached, at least you’ll have a conversation partner for the time it takes for him or her to suck down that martini. And if you’re single? Well, the possibilities are endless. At the very least, you’ll make someone’s night.

Night 30: Start your own list of to-dos. Now that you’ve spent 29 nights trying new things, meeting new people, and visiting new places, you’ve surely amassed your own mental list of spots you’re dying to check out and events you simply must attend. Now, the next time your friends whine, “What are we doing tonight?”, you’ll have all the chic, fun answers. So what’s up for tonight? Sampling the beer menu at Deep Ellum (477 Cambridge Street, Allston, 617.787.BEER)? A pub crawl around Beacon Hill? Scamming your way past the line at Revolution Rock Bar (200 High Street, Boston, 617.261.4200)? Or all of the above, and then some ... @

[Illustration by C Smigliani]

Sale alert

admin — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 23:18:00 GMT

Casa de Stile (371 Hanover Street, Boston, 857.233.4885): through August 31, 20 percent off all merchandise for members of Healthworks Fitness Centers.

Firefly (270 Newbury Street, Boston, 866.834.7335): through August 31, 20 percent off all merchandise for members of Healthworks Fitness Centers.

Intermix (186 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.236.5172): while items last, 75 percent off selected merchandise.

Mint Julep (1302 Beacon Street, Brookline, 617.232.3600): while items last, 25 to 70 percent off selected spring and summer merchandise.

Stil (179 Newbury Street, Boston, 617.859.7845): ongoing, up to 50 percent off summer shoes, clothes, and accessories.

Email sale news to style@stuffatnight.com.

-- Sarah Faith Alterman