As you pass by this North End coffee shop, the first thing you notice are the laptops on all of the tables by the window. No wonder, the cafe offers free wifi. Beautiful unique artwork on the walls by featured local artists make this a funky spot to get your java fix. A true neighborhood gem and hang out with a fireplace, huge couches and chairs, and a friendly, laid back vibe.

The North End holds many treasures for the foodie palate. Need a good butcher? Check. Old school baker with fresh bread any time of the day or night? There are dozens to choose from. Great seafood merchant? There used several fish mongers abounding that have slowly dwindled away to make room for the boutiques and trendy hot spots opening left and right throughout the neighborhood. However, the ladies of Mercato del Mare moved in Summer of 2008 to fill that void and currently offer a variety traditional Italian fave's as well as staples and exotic fish for your next feast.

Polcari's has so many herbs, oils and spices. If you want to prepare authentic Italian food at home, this is the place to get your ingredients. You won't find this stuff at the supermarket chains, and a lot of it can be bought out of bins or is packaged at the store. Old style shop where they will soon know your name. Just go for the experience of the visit, for that real 'North End' feeling, complete with creaky, wooden floors. This place changed hands some time ago, but from what I hear it went to a former employee who maintains the original feel and charm.

Do not miss the lemon slush in the summer here, it's not too sweet and very refreshing. You'll see the slush cooler, disguised as the 55 gallon drum that it was made from, out in front of the door. You scoop it yourself and then pay.

The storefront sign says that the name of this place is actually "The Wild Duck", which is kind of odd, but it must have been a serious liquor store in a previous incarnation. To further prove this theory, there is a sign over the door reading "Beer Necessities." I don't know about you, but beer itself is always a necessity, athough I don't know what else you may need in order to drink it. Chips perhaps? A bottle opener? Don't think too long or hard about this, because tragically there is not much alcohol within. They have a couple of touristy items that you can see from the window, but the basic function of this place is that of a convenience store, and a rather sad little one at that.

A small and intimate restaurant that serves modern Italian dishes. Popular choices include the open-faced scallop and lobster ravioli and the pan-roasted filet mignon. It has a wonderful wine list, and you are likely to have the same server on each visit. Terramia is not your typical mom-and-pop restaurant in the North End and a great place for a romantic dinner. Decor is gorgeous. Comfortable, stylish and modern. I wish every room in my house looked this good. If there is a wait for a table (which there often is) they suggest you grab a drink at the bar in Bacco Ristorante, a restaurant just across the street. The hostess will come and get you in Bacco once your table is ready.