Valter Vitorino opened Cafe Brazil, Boston's home for Brazilian cuisine, in 1986. Much of the clientele consists of the area's substantial Brazilian population (though that has evolved along with the demographics of Alston), who come to enjoy true-to-home versions of Brazilian classics like and Brazil's national dishes, like feijoada, Moqueca, churrasco, black beans, rice, salads, and desserts. Vitorino himself hails form the town of Minas Gerais, and as it is generally accepted that Brazilian dishes tend to differ slightly from place to place, Cafe Brazil reflects the regional cooking Vitorino grew up on in Minas Gerais. Brazilian hospitality abounds from the moment a customer enters the restaurant, and the staff welcomes you as though you were in their home. Service is prompt and friendly, and the entire staff works together to cover the whole restaurant. The food comes out very quickly, too. The menu is quite extensive, and if a diner is unfamiliar with Brazilian cuisine, the staff will happily guide you to something delicious. Many of the dishes come on sizzling plates, and all of the food is very fresh. There's also a karaoke room with a small stage in addition to 2 dining rooms.

“Sizzling fajitas and frosty margaritas” are the order of the day at this funky, laid-back hangout. It's not the most authentic taco joint, but portions are large and prices are reasonable (fajitas $7-12, large order of tequila wings $10, and chili $3-4). The bar stocks 18 different kinds of tequila—need we say more? Margaritas $4+, pitchers $10+. Best of all, should the José Cuervo bring out your artistic impulses, feel free to doodle on the tables and walls (crayons provided). Entrees $7-13. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Athan's Brighton is an airy space that is much more than just a place for a coffee or a meal. We aim to provide a warm, welcoming and informal atmosphere where our patrons tend to stay longer than originally planned. Our contemporary and comfortable interior is inviting to both groups and individuals, morning, afternoon or night. Let them eat cake...as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner! Our expanded menu is eclectically Mediterranean-inspired and offers selections such as fresh salads, pressed panini sandwiches, as well as interesting entrees. We offer quality coffees and specialty loose-leaf teas (our pots of premium teas have proven to be very popular). We are also an excellent source for made-to-order-food-to-go; catering options, and business buffet lunches.

Carlo's is an Allston secret. Hefty portions, great cooking, and reasonable prices keep this little outfit packed at lunch and dinner almost every day of the week. Try the egg soup with chicken broth and egg noodles ($5) for a taste of some inspired home cooking. Traditional meat dishes are sizable and always well-cooked. The costate di maiale (pork chops and potatoes in vinegar and peppers; $16) is tender and flavorful and so generous that you'll be having it for breakfast the next day. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

A cozy enoteca located off of North Square in the North End. It has been called intimate, romantic, and praised for delicious and authentic Italian dishes. Carmen is small at only 9 tables, but has a small bar for a quick drink or bite.

Devlin's calls itself, "A little bit of downtown, uptown," and it definitely brings downtown style, atmosphere and culinary excellence to Brighton Center. Appropriate for business, social or family dining, its cuisine mixes traditional and innovative American fare with a touch of international flavor and an expansive wine list. They offer both a seasonal menu and year-round upscale comfort food (including their exceptional thin-crust pizza). Critics rave about the lush setting and the delicious homemade desserts, but after the meal is when this restaurant really heats up: the tables are cleared away and the dance floor opens for dancing to music provided by live DJs. The patio at Devlin's fills up fast each night (open May-Oct), so get there early if you want outdoor seating. The patio is also the perfect spot for hosting your next function - Devlin's experienced and professional staff will make it a surefire success. Devlin's also offers full catering services for off-site events, individually tailored to your party's needs.

El Oriental is a cheerful Cuban café which provides bilingual service with a smile. It is a casual, friendly hangout for a diverse crowd of locals. Choose from among the succulent variety plates ($7.50-$11.75), particularly the chicken fricassee and shredded beef, deliciously satisfying meals with rice, beans, and tasty fried plantains served green or ripe. Don't forget the sweet drinks—tropical shakes are only $2, and a creamy orange concoction called “morir soñando” (“to die dreaming”) is only $2.50—or the desserts (sweet, light flan; $1.50). They serve the best Cuban coffee in the City and it's not unusual to see Red Sox and visiting team players here getting their fix, along with Cubans from all over town.
El Oriental de Cuba suffered a fire bombing in mid 2005 but like a phoenix rose from the ashes. Owner Nobel Garcia, an unofficial neighborhood ambassador, never let adversity hinder him. El Oriental does catering and their food is a great way to spice up your meeting (literally) with beans, rice a little pork or beef and platanos. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

The 2nd Flour to open in Boston after the flagship store on Washington in the South End has been earning rave reviews for years. This location has the same menu, some different specials, and more space to enjoy the decadent pastries!

Originally founded in 1991 by Michael Aplin to honor his life partner Geoffrey Seelen, this long-time favorite from Boston's Back Bay recently reopened in Roslindale Square with all a familiar panache reminiscent from its days on Tremont Street. This Washington Street hot spot has a to-die-for menu boasting yummy comfort foods ranging from its spinach & artichoke appetizer dip served with tortilla chips ($7.95) and its tasty chicken saltimbocca chicken plate seared with proscuitto, capers, spinach, balsamic mushrooms served atop mashed potatoes ($14.95). While the food is stellar, it's Geoffrey's funky-chic ambiance, friendly staff and outdoor patio area that will having you coming back for more.

A North End gem for casual take out and dine in. Off the beaten track and tucked away from the craziness of Hanover and Salem Street, Hot Tomatoes is known to North Enders for giving good food fast.