Think coffeeshop spiked with alcohol. Overlooking the Mass Pike sits this quirky alternative pit stop, with a truly diverse clientele, an alt-rock soundtrack, and a skater-punk-themed decor. A busy lunch crowd lines up for hummus platters ($6.50), sandwiches and wraps ($6.20-7), and salads ($5.75-6.75). At night, the Other Side feels much more like a bar, as friends relax over pitchers of domestic and imported beer ($16-20) and chips and salsa. Despite the traffic, the patio makes a surprisingly good place to enjoy one of the special lattes ($4.25), smoothies ($4.50), or desserts; a cozy second-story loft adds another seating option. Half sandwich or salad with soup combo $6.75. The Other Side Cafe, or 'Osc' as it is known by some of the spindly hipsters who frequent it, is also known for its chili. The outdoor seating is a lot less posh than other Newbury cafes, but has a funkier people-watching--the crowd that frequents Other Side can be a lot more fun to watch and talk to! They offer brunch on the weekends, and breakfast food all day during the week. Other great offerings include movie nights and trivia. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

An extraordinarily attentive waitstaff and diverse cuisine from all regions of the subcontinent make Bhindi Bazaar a fun and even eye-opening experience. Light and innovative appetizers such as the shrimp balchow ($7) and chaat papri (chickpeas, potatoes, wheat chips, and yogurt; $4.50) aptly prepare the palate for heartier entrees. Skip the all-too-familiar North Indian dishes like chicken tikka masala ($12) and vegetable korma ($11) and instead try the more exciting biryani ($12-14) plates or the boti kabab (grilled lamb marinated in special spices; 16). Heaping portions leave little room for dessert, but those with a sweet tooth should indulge in one of the many types of lassi ($3.50) or the homemade kulfi (ice cream, $4). This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Trendy yet casual, Island Hopper brings authentic Southeast Asian spices from Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Singapore to this bright and spacious restaurant. Prices are steeper than at other Asian places, but the high quality and large portions make it superb value for money. For starters, try the pie tee (pastry cups filled with spiced fresh vegetables; $6) and the Saigon crêpe (shrimp and coconut omelet filled with fresh vegetables; $9). Most entrees from their diverse selection range $6-16, though specials like lobster and duck go for as high as $36. Fruit smooothies and delicious glutinous black rice with fragrant coconut cream and fresh mango ($8) end the meal on a perfect note. All-day special combos (with rice and appetizer, $8) and lunch ($6) may be the best deal. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

This modern restaurant/lounge maintains an unpretentious yet hip vibe. A sleek fire display and glass wine room are just two of its many features. Half the space is a restaurant and half the space is a bar. The menu features mini kobe burgers and other stylish menu items. Martinis are the drink of choice, but they still might remember what a beer is (just ask nicely). Come dressed to the nines. This is a place to see, and a place to bee seen. Still not completely exposed to Boston's masses, you still have some elbow room to skim the crowds.

It's suprising how many children pass this erotic shop - and hit the balloon that sometimes hangs outside. Good thing your toddler can't read or concentrate on the pretty picture on it- because it would have everyone blushing. This is a chocolate shop and erotic sex toy store. They sell a variety of x-rated shaped chocolates, cakes and other novelty sweets. Plus, they sell all the bachlorette gear to make the bride-to-be feel dirtier that time she drank the whole bottle of vodka in front of the football team. Beyond sweets and bachlor gear, the store has a limited section of vibrators and other "not to novelty" items.

Formerly known as "The Wrap" Boloco has burritos that feed the masses. You can get regular (about $5) or large ($6) in a yummy variety of styles - choose which one and then go with beef, chicken or tofu. You can also do a salad or a smoothie. If you are having a really bad day, go in and order a Nutella burrito - once you bite into that heavenly chocolately goodness things will look a bit brighter. You can order online!!

The pink, white, and black cow-like mosaic counter and larger-than-life cow murals let ice cream fans know they've entered frozen dairy paradise. Traditional classics include Sweet Cream, Cookie Dough, Chocolate Brownie, and Coffee Oreo, while unconventional specials include Myers Rum Raisin (with real liquor), Cucumber, and Pumpkin. The scope of chilly delights ranges from full-fat ice creams to health-conscious frozen yogurts (cones and dishes $2.20-4). The ever-expanding menu includes milkshakes and fruitata drinks ($3), as well as overflowing sundaes ($5-6) and absolutely mammoth banana splits ($6.70). If for some crazy reason ice cream isn't your thing, they also have an extensive drink menu of coffee, cappuccino, tea, and non-dairy freezes. J.P. Licks originated in Jamaica Plain, at 659 Centre St. (617-524-6740). Other branches at 4A College Ave. in Davis Sq. (617-666-5079), and Harvard St. in Coolidge Corner. All products guaranteed kosher. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

With hundreds of locations in the Boston area, Starbucks is definitely one of the largest coffee shop presences in Beantown. Starbucks is not only known for their coffee drinks and pastries, but the relaxed setting, mood music, and open space with comfy couches it provides for their clientele. Although they are mainly known for their coffee, Starbucks also offers a variety of teas, waters, iced drinks, sandwiches, and desserts. Hours of operation depend upon location, and it accepts cash, credit, and Starbucks gift certificates.

Serving "the world's best hot dog", there are also chicken sandwiches, subs, pizza and even veggie dogs for those who prefer to not eat meat. Basic dogs are $2.59, loaded "Junkyard Dogs" are $2.87 and chicken sandwiches are $3.98. Also gigantic hamburgers for $4-5 and huge condiment bar. With prices this low, you can see why this place is a student favorite.

They call this restaurant "the place where chefs dine." Housed in the Eliot Hotel at the top of the Commonwealth Avenue mall, this Japanese-French restaurant really knows no bounds when it comes to imaginative food. From French and American classic cuisine, to a Asian twist with Oringer's affinity for the exotic (as seen in his sashimi bar, Uni) Clio is not to be missed. This quaint space makes the top lists of restaurants year after year, and Oringer is added to the list of the best chefs in the country as well. Clio offers private dining as well.