Dining

In a city synonymous with tradition, Boston chefs have spent recent years rewriting culinary history. The stuffy, wood-paneled formality is gone; the endless renditions of chowdah, lobster, and cod have retired; and the assumption that true foodies better hop the next Amtrak to New York is also—thankfully—a thing of the past. Small, upscale neighborhood spots that use local New England ingredients—fresh fish and shellfish, locally grown fruits and vegetables, handmade cheeses, and humanely raised heritage game and meats—to delicious effect have taken their place. Traditional eats can still be found (Beantown Pub remains the best place for baked beans), but many diners now gravitate toward innovative food in understated environs. Whether you're looking for casual French, down-home Southern cooking, some of the country's best sushi, or Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, Boston restaurants are ready to deliver.

Reservations

Reservations generally need to be made at least a few nights in advance, but this is easily done by your concierge, online at www.opentable.com and www.resy.comor by calling the restaurant directly. Tables can be hard to come by if you want to dine between 7 and 9 pm, or on Friday or Saturday night. But most restaurants will get you in if you show up and are willing to wait.