Charlestown - Bunker Hill Monument

Time to switch from some of our recent travels to sightseeing in our own back yard!

Growing up north of Boston, I came into the city quite a bit for school field trips, shows and some shopping. Every time I came in, I could see the Bunker Hill Monument in the distrance from the highway, but somehow never actually climbed it! Back when we did out Freedom Trail Pub Crawl the Monument was closed, so I was out of luck. This summer, though, after a year of actually living with views of the Monument, I was determined to make the climb. On a sunny Saturday, Nick and I wandered over to the museum and grabbed our free tickets to make the climb.

Bunker Hill Monument

East Cambridge Rib Fest!

When I was invited back to judge the East Cambridge Business Association's "Smoke This" Rib Fest, I immediately agreed. After having such an amazing afternoon last year, I was eager to see what the chefs brought out this year. The goal again this year was to taste and photograph ALL of the rib offerings and try not to get sauce all over me. Once again it was a beautiful afternoon for this event, the streets were packed with people and the air was filled with sweet and smokey smell of BBQ.

Cambridge Street

Lets Talk About Food Competition!

If there is one thing I LOVE to talk about it's food.  I mean, I started a blog so that Nick and the dogs didn't get too sick of me talking about food all the time! So when I was contacted by a group called Let's Talk About Food, I was hooked. The goal of Let's Talk About Food is to start a food revolution by simply talking about it. Since then, the group has become a citywide umbrella organization that presents educational events in partnership with all sorts of organizations and non-profits.

The Winning Dish! Officer Matt Brown's Ginger Glazed Salmon 

Southie Day - Sullivan's and Harpoon

We recently had some out-of-towners come for a visit. Lobster rolls were on their list of Boston things to try, so Nick brought them to Neptune Oyster their first day for lunch, but I thought a fun activity would be a trip to Sullivan's on Castle Island where we could grab lunch and tour around the island itself. This way, we made sure they got to try all sorts of New England classics (including more lobster rolls). Since I had never been, I was also excited to play tourist in my own city.

Sullivan's

Fishing in Boston Harbor

For Nick's birthday this year I actually got my act together and planned a day fishing trip out of Boston Harbor.  Honestly, the reason it took a couple of years to get around to it was that finding a good, convenient boat proved to be more difficult than I originally thought.  Finally I reached out to some friends on the North Shore thinking they would know of places up there, and one good friend actually recommended a boat out of Constitution Wharf in Charlestown - PERFECT.

Nick's Fishing!

Fishing Frenzy is owned by Captain Scott, who has a day job but during the summer takes groups out on fishing trips.  The whole atmosphere was totally relaxed; the only rule was there were no rules. Scott and his first mate, Brian, were super helpful and eager to please. Rather than spending the time trolling, their eyes were on the water, watching the birds and looking for splashes. We were constantly moving around in search of the fish. Once settled, the two of them were casting and the minute a fish was hooked, they let us have the fun and reel it in.  Nick actually cast and caught his own fish!

The Naumkeag Ordinary - a Trip to Salem, Massachusetts

When you see friends' dreams come true, it is always something exciting.  This is definitely the case when it comes to Naumkeag Ordinary. After working as the GM at CoDa for a number of years, our friend Matt Brady and chef Dan Bitler took their culinary skills to Salem to open their own restaurant, which as most of you know is no easy task!  After a couple of months renovating the space of a former Polish restaurant, Matt and Dan opened Naumkeag Ordinary, which specializes in local cuisine and seasonal influences.  The bar has a rotation of beers on tap that can change daily depending on what the locals favor.  One beer was gone within the day after word got out that Naumkeag had it on tap!

Deviled Eggs

To give some context behind the restaurant's name: "Naumkeag" is the name of the native American tribe that originally lived in Salem and the name that was originally used for the town, and an "Ordinary" is a colonial term for a tavern.  The name harkens back to the history that Salem is so famous for (when you're there, you can see some cool historical photographs, including those of a baseball team with "Naumkeag" across their uniforms!)

Shake Shack - New York Burgers in the 'Burbs

Shake Shack is a burger joint that conjures up delicious memories for many people.  Found originally in New York, tourists and city dwellers alike flocked to its various locations to indulge in the burgers and shakes.  When rumors started to spread that Shake Shack was moving to the Boston area people got excited.  When the rumors were confirmed and the doors of the Chestnut Hill location opened, there were lines of people willing to wait over an hour to taste what Shake Shack had to offer.

Single Shake Shack Burger

A Trip to Crane Beach with Holly and Arthur (our new dog!)

Two weeks ago we expanded our family to include a new furry friend - Arthur!  We rescued Arthur through Lucky Lab Rescue and he has been a wonderful addition.  He is just over a year old and may be the sweetest boy around.  We decided to rescue a dog because we did not really want a puppy (although they are available through rescues as well) and there are so many wonderful dogs looking for their forever homes that we knew we would find the perfect fit.

Meet Arthur!

This past weekend we made it up to Crane Beach for the last doggie-friendly weekend (the season ends the last day of March).  After last year, we were looking forward to a day with a bit less wind and some warmer temps; luckily Saturday had both.  The beach had a bunch of people walking with their K9 companions - this was a perfect Easter weekend adventure.

Lamb Jam 2013 - Shanks A Lot!

Yesterday, in the midst of a little (more) snowfall, Nick and I had no problem being inspired to leave the house.  We had Lamb Jam tickets, and since the food was going to be there, so would we!  After having such a great time tasting so many delicious lamb plates last year, we had been looking forward to this year's event for some time.  We arrived just before 3:00 to be sure we would not miss out on anything.  Trying to balance plates, drinks and a camera, I ended up focusing more on eating and drinking, but I managed to grab a few quick shots, including one of the overall winner!

Lamb Cake Pop

Enjoying all things lamb also meant getting a great Q&A with Lisa, owner of North Star Lamb Farm, while the chefs of Tavolo broke down a whole lamb in real time - quite impressive to watch.  There were some really good questions and comments about how best to prepare certain cuts of meat, as well as hints on how to get the most from your own lamb cuts.

Scenes from Nemo - Boston

It all started so innocently.  The snow began to fall mid-afternoon on Friday.  We went out (walking) to a friend's house at about 7:30 and there was only about 4 inches of snow on the ground.  There was a bit of wind, but not too bad - nothing us New Englanders can't handle.

Friday Afternoon

When we woke up on Saturday, however, it was a winter wonderland!  There was a solid 2 to 3 feet of snow on the ground.  Cars were buried and the roads were just a mess.  That morning we had some pancakes and coffee and enjoyed being snowed in.

Aftermath!

There were only foot prints heading down to the main road that would eventually turn into sledding hills :)

Jingle Bell Run and R.F. O'Sullivan's

So you know it's the winter holiday season when the Jingle Bell Run happens.  We were fortunate that the weather was about 20 degrees warmer than last year...thank goodness for small favors.  Dressed in our holiday best, which includes colorful socks and a bell necklace that gets a bit tiresome by the end of the 5K, Nick and I completed the run with some respectable times, and then went in search of some of the free Harpoon that comes with finishing the race!

Ready to Run!

Of course, everyone else running the race is looking for the same types of bars so those in Davis Square fill up quickly.  In search of places with no lines, we joined our friends, jumped on the T, and eventually found ourselves at R.F. O'Sullivan and Sons, known far and wide for their burgers.  Naturally, I was sold on this stop.  Burgers and beer after a race - what more do you need in life?  Fortunately there was not a crowd of runners in sight, so we grabbed some seats at the bar and the bartender was quick to take our orders and get some beer in our bellys!

How am I supposed to eat this?!

In And Around Town On The Move - Literally

Things have been pretty hectic here at In and Around Town.  Two weeks ago we were down in the Bahamas enjoying a little fun in the sun (when we weren't dodging some rain) and diving in the beautiful turquoise waters.  This past week, in the midst of having a fantastic Thanksgiving, we have been packing our little hearts out.  That's right: In and Around Town is leaving Beacon Hill and moving to the greener (and bigger) pastures of Charlestown!

Our Beacon Hill condo has been home to me since October 2006, and my first place after law school.  Needless to say, I am very attached!  When I moved in, it was just Holly (the dog) and I, and the 576 square feet, soaring ceilings and 1 bedroom were perfect!  At the time, I did not spend much time in the kitchen, so the small size did not bother me at all (read: lots of take-out!).

First side - I am sure you are admiring the extensive counterspace!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I hope everyone has a fantastic Thanksgiving.  I will be heading to the North Shore to a family friend's house for the holiday, which will also pass as a mini reunion of some of my closest friends - I cannot wait!  We are in charge of bringing an appetizer, which I am sure will be recapped here soon :)

If you are look for some last minute dish ideas, here are some good ones:

Vanilla Apple Sauce

Pumpkin Muffins

Honey Yeast Rolls

Hazelnut Pecan and Cranberry Bread

Homemade Oreo's!

Also, if you are in need of a pie and don't want to make one from scratch, definitely be sure to check out Pie in the Sky.  Since November of 1993, Boston's finest bakers have rallied together to make and donate thousands of pies that over 500 volunteers sell to family and friends.  Each pie is only $25 and totally delicious.  The $25 provides enough money for a week's worth of home-delivered meals to a Community Servings client.  This is definitely a great cause around the holidays.

Keep safe and enjoy the Holiday!

What are you doing for Thanksgiving?

East Cambridge Rib Fest - So Many AMAZING Ribs!

This past Sunday Nick and I spent the afternoon over in East Cambridge at the East Cambridge Business Association's Smoke This Rib Fest, where we walked up and down the street all in the name of determining which of 21 restaurants had the BEST ribs in town.  Proving I was dedicated to the cause, I rolled up my white shirt sleeves (silly decision, I know!) and tasted all 21 ribs!  That is a lot of ribs, but of course, in the midst of eating and smearing BBQ sauce all over my face, I snapped a few (or many) photos!

West Bridge's Rib - cherry mustard confit with beef ribs 

Once I checked in and checked out the map (now covered in sauce!), we decided to start with booth #1 and work our way up from there.  Most of the restaurants were from around East Cambridge and were places I was familiar with, though there were still some new places to experience!

Apple Picking at Smolak Farms

For some reason, this fall I have been on an apple picking mission.  I haven't been on a true apple picking trip since elementary school, and I decided that this was my year to change that.  Given Nick's attachment to Smolak Farms and the two amazing Whim Dinners we have been to, we figured it was time to see the farm during its peak apple picking season.

Eating while picking :)

We arrived at Smolak Farms at around 10:30AM and while the Farm was crowded, there's plenty of room to spread out, so it never seemed too bad.  Shortly after parking, we walked directly to the Antique Orchard that had many varieties of apples not generally sold in stores.  It was about $5 more for a peck bag than the standard Macintosh/Cortland orchard, but it was so fun to get to taste so many apples!  In addition to Macs and Cortlands, the Antique Orchard featured varieties like Pink Ladies, Northern Spy, Winter Banana (which actually taste a bit like banana!), Smokehouse and Sheepnose.

Maki-rrito (aka, the Sushi Burrito!)

When word started spreading that a San Francisco mainstay, the Maki-rrito, was coming to Boston's new Avery Provision, I was excited and knew I would have to check it out.  A Maki-rrito takes the best parts of a burrito and sushi and combines them!  On a Saturday afternoon soon after they opened, Nick and I headed over for some lunch ordered two of the Maki-rritos, made with tuna, cucumber and spicy mayo, all wrapped up in white sushi rice and seaweed.  Each one is made by hand right in front of your eyes.

Maki-rrito

This was definitely a different experience, but in a good way.  The roll is more sushi than burrito - think a REALLY big hand roll - but it works.  This is an easy and simple way to have some sushi without worrying about the pieces from falling apart!  Fresh ingredients and the fun idea will make me stop in again for sure.

Ingredients for Maki-rrito and sushi!

In addition to the sushi bar, there are tons of other prepared options available, like grilled chicken , a variety of noodles, fish and a full deli counter to make the most perfect sandwiches.

Options!

Deli Counter

Having worked in the area previously, I am a bit sad that I can't make a quick stop in for lunch during the week!  However, this isn't far off from Nick's commute and could definitely make for some easy dinner options.  Regardless, there are plenty of items for you to choose from at Avery Provision, but the Maki-rrito is definitely a good place to start!

Sam Adams Brewery and Grass Fed - a Day in JP

For Nick's birthday this year we decided to do a bunch of random Boston activities, including a trip to the Sam Adams Brewery!  While Nick had already been there, I never had, and with the weather being a bit iffy we thought this would be a good rain-or-shine activity.  The brewery is just a quick walk from the Stony Brook stop on the Orange Line.  Luckily, we happened to beat the rush and only had to wait a half hour for our tour to start.

Awarding Beers!

When the Irish Red group was called (each tour time is assigned a beer type!) we gathered in front of an old-school barrel and readied ourselves to learn about making some beer!  Sam Adams doesn't charge you to tour and taste, but do suggest you make a donation to one of three different charities they support.  These charities include one that helps start-up companies, while another provides money for the preservation of the Granary Burying Ground (resting place of Sam Adams - yay, Boston local!).

Whim Dinner at Smolak Farm

After last year's amazing experience at Smolak Farms' Whim Dinner, Nick and I could not wait to go again this summer.  With a setting next to a pond, an apple orchard and farm animals, it's hard not to be sucked into the picturesque location.

Whim Dinner

This year, we were originally set to go at the beginning of August, but then the rain came and our diner was cancelled.  Luckily, we were able to reschedule for last week's dinner with Mary Dumont of Harvest.  With someone whose restaurant was at the beginning of the farm to table movement (years ago) we knew we would be in good hands.

Massimino's and Caffe Vittoria - an evening in the North End

Nick recently celebrated a big birthday, and since we go out to some pretty nice meals on a regular basis, I decided to indulge in a little nostalgia for this one.  Growing up, Nick's family would drive into the city to go to Massimino's Cucina Italiana in Boston's North End, right before the bridge over into Charlestown.  It had been at least 15 years since he had been there, but we figured better late then never for a return trip (or in my case, a first visit!).  We had reservations for 7:00 on a Thursday evening and were seated straight away in the upstairs area (I guess there is a bar and more dining downstairs).  I was surprised how quite it was when we got there, but shortly after we sat the restaurant filled up.

The servers were more than friendly and I think this restaurant attracts tourists because there is definitely a bit of "Boston showmanship" involved when going over the menu and specials.  After ordering a bottle of Chianti (to complete the Italian feel) we settled in for an evening of Italian-American goodness!  First to arrive was the fried calamari, a MASSIVE portion that was a special for the evening.  The calamari had a nice golden crispy outside and was cooked well.  I don't like peppers, but Nick thought the vinegar bite they provided went well with the seafood.  A rich and satisfying start to a meal.

Fried Calamari

Nick went with another special for his main course, which was a homemade pappardelle with a limoncello sauce topped off with mounds of seafood and a few mushrooms for good measure.  The sauce was rich and the pasta was amazingly fresh!  The seafood was just a great cap to the dish.

Sam's at Louis Boston

One of my favorite concert venues during a summer in Boston is the Bank of America Pavillion, which will always be Harbor Lights to me!  Recently, Nick and I got tickets to see Passion Pit there and we wanted to grab some food before the show, and assuming it was going to be beautiful we thought Sam's at Louis Boston would be the perfect place to enjoy the fresh air and grab a bite.  Unfortunately, Mother Nature did not cooperate with our plans and it POURED! Though we didn't get to sit outside and take in one the best water views in Boston, we did get to look through the window at the same view!

Views from Sam's

I arrived a few minutes early and grabbed a drink at the bar: a Goji PI's, made with Aquavit and Apricot Liquor, OJ, sparkling wine and a goji liquor drizzle.  I thought this was the perfect way to start a Friday night.