One of the classic Boston steakhouses, however Abe and Louie's was hot even before the recent steak craze. Dark and decadent, this Boylston street hotspot offers a variety of steaks, fabulous wines, and even a wonderful weekend brunch. Over-sized leather courtroom chairs and Hollywood-style booths in the dining room create an inviting atmosphere while impressive bronze chandeliers, massive torchieres, traditional mahogany detailing, and the gold leaf barrel vault ceiling add an air of elegance. Make sure to try the steak benedict!

The Vox is the perfect place to see and be seen. Although quite the meat market, if you are in the mood to schmooze it up and look your best on a Saturday night, it is a fun place as an outing with friends. Serving 27 of the most creative martinis around in a hip but unpretentious milieu, this swanky bar is Boylston Street's “It” spot. A mostly twenty- and thirty-something crowd fills the bar on weekend nights to down $9 martinis. It kind of has that 'beautiful people' vibe going on... which can be oh so good, and can also be a complete nightmare. There are some creepy types who frequent the place hoping to pick up the aforementioned beautiful people, but thankfully they are amusing to watch. Granted, the drinks are expensive, but with such tempting varieties as the Tiramisu Martini and White Crantini (a clear martini made for men who “don't want to be seen with a pink drink”), who can resist? 8 types of scotch ($8-14), 12 bottled beers and 6 on tap, traditional cocktails ($6-9), and wine by the glass ($7.50-10.50) provide ample variety for those morally opposed to martinis. Thanks to Vox Pop's massive space there's always a quiet corner to retreat to, even on busy weekend nights. No cover.

Best Cellars sells smart wine for a reasonable price. If you know what kind of wine you like (white-sweet, bubbly, red-bold etc.) then they have a clearly labeled section for you. They often pair with restaurants for free samples and wine tastings. If you aren't' an avid wine follower, just ask the well-versed staff.

Like a final club for grown-ups, this smoky venue attracts Wall Street types and Polo boys who convene among leather couches and potted palms to relish the simple pleasure of a good smoke. The walk-in humidor houses 300+ varieties of stogies ($6-50). Enjoy a solid selection of wine, beer, port, and sherry from the hardwood bar, brought to you by the necessarily waifish blonde, while backgammon, chess, or sports play on the telly. For a paltry $1200/yr, you too can have your own locker with brass plaque in the humidor. Reservations recommended. Also available for private parties.

Legal Sea Foods is a culinary classic on the east coast. A Boston-based chain Legal Sea Foods offers a variety of high quality sea food. The clam chowder has been served at the last seven presidential inaugurations. The food and service are consistently great. Located in the Prudential Building- Legal Sea Foods attracts the mall walker and the couple on a serious date. Expect lines, and try the chowder! Live jazz during Sunday Brunch.

This restaurant is located at the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. It is one of Boston's finest dining destinations, the award-winning Top of the Hub features outstanding cuisine, impeccable service, and a sophisticated ambiance. Soaring 52 floors above the Back Bay, the restaurant and adjoining Skywalk Observatory offer guests a spectacular view of the Boston skyline from every table.
Top of the Hub's creative menus reflect a balance of New England dishes blended with contemporary cuisine influenced by the cooking styles of Asia and California. Selections strongly emphasize the freshest New England fish and shellfish available, including Boston lobsters, New England clam chowder, along with the highest quality beef, veal, lamb, chicken, and game that make up the changing, seasonal menus.

This restaurant is across from the Prudential Mall. Uno's in Uno's, there isn't much more to say about the chain deep-dish pizza place. The most interesting thing about this location, however, is that they now serve breakfast. It's basically an a-la-carte breakfast (cereal, croissants, coffee, tea, fruit) with a menu for things like eggs and pancakes.

Deluca's is the Back Bay grocery for your last minute items. The shop carried a small variety of most goods, but plan on paying a hefty fee for more grocery items. Downstairs has liquor, beer, and wine. (The staff have recommendation cards placed around the great wines). Upstairs there is a deli that makes a HUGE sandwich for a small price. In the summer, there are tables and benches set up around the bundles of flowers for sale. Try and nab a table, sit back, and watch the passer-byers. While the setting is idillyic and the shop charming, don't expect a large variety of goods in the small store as well as high prices.

Italian restaurant on Boylston. Vinny T's offers typical Italian fare includes pastas, pizzas, and Italian style entrees. Although good, Vinny T's isn't a front runner for a "place to go" for Italian (but who can blame it, it's competing with the North End). A great place for large parties(or friends) and consistent service, but by-pass it for dates or when you're trying to impress someone.

French style cooking in a cozy nook below a bed and breakfast in the Back Bay on Newbury Street. The warm colors give you a feel for the inventive menu. Rumored to be the child of a famous restaurant in Cannes, France- the chef has a high-profile reputation as well. The food is made with the best french ingredients, so expect a large bill. The restaurant is a "brasserie by cuisine and a bistro by atmosphere", serving Mediterranean style dishes in clean and authentic presentations. They also offer up their own takes on the French classics, such as steak or moules frites. french, restaurant, outdoor dining, wine list