As comically old-school as it may be, Locke-Ober invariably delivers on its biggest promise: a wildly decadent, scotch-and-cigar-laden immersion in all things traditionally New England—and Harvard, of course. This restaurant's ancient leather chairs, pheasant prints, sprawling chandeliers, and heavy panelled walls once watched only the wealthiest of men. Now, as our waiter lamented, the dining room is open to ladies, though “it is not designed for it.” The spookily stiff waiters invisibly deliver dishes from a menu leaning heavily toward expensive meats and seafood, from appetizers such as the divine Jonah crab cakes ($14) all the way through the entrees (tasty, fatty sirloin; $36) and sickeningly rich and delicious desserts. For the pyromaniacs among us, ample opportunities exist to have various dishes flambéed (read: lit on fire) tableside. For good reason, the Hasty Pudding Theatricals still bring their Man of the Year here annually. For a bit of Boston history in your belly, order a "Ward 8." This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Kingston Station is hidden away in a cross section of the Financial District, Chinatown, and the Leather District but it's worth checking out, it took the space of the old Peking Tom's. As for the atmosphere- the decor is understated and classy/ casual. White tiles, red leather booths, cafe tables. The music was a chill mixture of 80s to current, with live jazz being performed on the weekends from time to time. Is hopping as an after work watering hole, and busy on the weekends as well. Known as a great bar to rent out for special functions.

An outdoor patio attached to the Hyatt hotel, Avenue One offers cocktails, light fare, and a relaxing and romantic atmosphere for whatever the situation. Avenue One serves contemporary New England cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Conveniently situated in the heart of downtown, just steps from many theatres, hip bars and South Station. Avenue One is a great location for a hearty breakfast, power lunch, after work drinks and pre-theatre meals.

The dramatic ambience and fashionista crowd at Mantra almost overshadows the stunning French-Indian fusion cuisine served up my chef Thomas John but his classic culinary instincts and clever use of spices ultimately prevails at this fine-dining must where Boston’s Downtown Crossing and Theatre District intersect. The décor is breathtaking. This former bank from the 1800s has been transformed into an avant-garde masterpiece with its Italian marble walls and floors, halogen lights and saffron-colored silk drapery that makes seem like an experiential journey of the senses. Chain mail curtains and stepped tables evoke multiple rooms in the Beaux-Arts marble hall of the Old Colony Bank. Tip: Gentlemen, the urinals are disguised as ice machines. Ladies, your privacy is secure: the glass is one-way.

Max & Dylans is located in the Downtown Crossing location as the Old West Street Grille and has been opened by Brad Dalbeck and Chris Damian, the owners of Scollay Square in Beacon Hill and Tavern on the Water in Charlestown, and is named after their two sons. Their vision is for a cool, hip, and trendy eatery and watering hole with a laid back vibe, great cocktails and good food. The space is decorated with large black and white photographs, intimate bar tables, and a large mirrored bar. Dancing optional. Zagat-Rated.

Nestled in between the Downtown Crossing and Financial District neighborhoods of Boston, you will find The Good Life: full lunch/dinner/bar/lounge experience. Catering primarily to the business lunch during the day, when the sun sets The Good Life serves up delicious fare for dinner as one heck of a good time. The first level of the newly renovated and family owned establishment contains a bar and dining room but down one level is the Afterlife lounge: home to over 150 frozen vodkas (kept at 10°)and DJs spinning quality music from all genres most days of the week. The Good Life has a vodka for everyone. From flavored, potato, and regular distilled, they are primarily from countries like Russia, Poland, and Antarctica. However, you can even find quality American vodka in their growing collection. The full dinner menu is also available in the Afterlife lounge. Although mostly known for serving up fun times, sophisticated cocktails, and nightly entertainment, The Good Life also serves up interesting and appetizing fare. Open for lunch and dinner, the menu consists of everything from the lauded tuna tartare and crispy salmon, to "not your mom's meatloaf", and classic fish and chips. They also have a variety of pizzas, sandwiches, appetizers, and sides. The Good Life believes in supporting local artists by showcasing their art on the walls, which are available for purchase. Entertainment is a large part of the scene here with DJ's performing throughout the month. The music selection ranges from down tempo electronic, deep sexy house, mash ups, rock ‘n' roll, reggae, funk & soul, dub step, and hip hop. Private parties are a popular option as the Good Life can accommodate food, drink, and music for up to 200 people. Their Event Coordinator, Callie Laquidara, will prepare an event catered to your needs utilizing the Good Life's dynamic space. The downstairs Vodka Lounge is a more intimate setting and more suitable for larger groups. This area was created for a more private space with more of a cocktail and small plate backdrop. The upstairs dining room is the perfect location for smaller events.

Aujourd'hui is closing on June 27th; afterward it will only be available for private functions^[1] Forget Rialto when you really want to lay it on thick, head to Aujourd'hui. Perched above the Public Garden in the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel, Aujourd'hui's old-money-coated dining room and immaculate service make every customer feel like royalty (probably because most of them are). The food follows through as well, with a constantly changing menu that never falls flat (entrees $30+). Don't miss the lobster bisque with butternut squash; the rabbit is especially succulent. Reservations required, and although jacket no longer is required for service, it is highly suggested. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard. UPDATE: This hotspot recently has been refurbished and outfitted with a classy new bar. Score!

Designer silks swish to-and-fro past the plush, upholstered chairs and leafy potted plants. This emblematic restaurant and lounge within Boston's famously posh Four Seasons serves as a more casual hangout for wealthy patrons than the stellar Aujourd'hui. The menu, however, is nothing less than professionally executed. Start with their Maine lump crabcakes, then proceed to their signature Bristol burger, which is worth every bit of its $17 price-tag. Entrees range from $15-27. Daily specials, which often feature fresh seafood, are another delectable albeit expensive option ($35). Dessert here could be a whole meal unto itself; brace yourself for the gigantic slice of triple layer chocolate fudge cake with raspberry coulis. And if you're feeling especially pretentious, drop in for a spot of tea-, complete with scones, tea sandwiches, tea bread, and pastries, daily from 3-4:30. Great Views of the Boston Public Gardens and the beautiful swan boats, people watching, tea with friends, drinks after work at the chic new bar, a cozy table by the fireplace on a cold winter night, friendly service.... What more could you possibly want out of a restaurant?

I have to give the nod to El Triunfo for best west-coast style Burritos in Boston, but Herrera's is very good and whenever I'm in the area for lunch its my first choice. Their hours are limited, but for workday lunches it's a great option. Service is always pleasant and speedy.

UPDATE: Bina Osteria and Bina Alimentari officially open Monday, Nov. 17. A new Italian restaurant and gourmet eatery in Downtown Crossing--Bina Osteria and Bina Alimentari--are coming to the corner of Washington Street and Avery Street near the Boston Opera House, with both the restaurant (Bina Osteria) and the shop (Bina Alimentari) slotted to open before Thanksgiving 2008.