#even if in the wild that lobster is a crawfish

[augustheart]

as i mentioned briefly in yesteday's post i found these panels of hooty being hand-fed lobster on a fork. and i'm obsessed with them.

[menuandprice]

FABULOUS FISH DISHES YOU MUST TRY

If you love nothing more than a great fish dish we have some great news for you. Looking into some of our favorite restaurant menus we have come up with some local places you will need to check out next time you want to get a great meal with friends. Check these out and you will not be disappointed. PAPPADEAUX SEAFOOD KITCHEN – Shrimp & Crawfish Fondeux Let’s get straight into it with this fantastic restaurant full of seafood sensations. The appetizers will get you on your way, but make sure to share with friends so you don’t get too full before your meal. Try the Shrimp and Crawfish Fondeaux with garlic bread or step on the wild side and grab a bite of the Crispy Fried Alligator. It comes served with potato sticks and some creole dipping sauce. You have to try their specialties like the Jumbo Shrimp Brochette that comes wrapped in bacon and a side of dirty rice and their Shrimp Creole and Grits is to die for. There are so many amazing edibles on their menu that it is difficult to select just one thing so make sure to head over there and find something out. BONEFISH GRILL –  Prince Edward Island Mussels Josephine Well, does the Bonefish Grill have an array of treats for you! Head over and check out their Prince Edward Island Mussels Josephine, which is basically heaven with a side of tomatoes, red onion, garlic, basil and lemon wine sauce. Need we say anything else? Probably not but we will. Also on the menu you will find Thai Coconut Shrimp, Maryland Crab Cakes, Crab Crusted Alaskan Cod and, wait for it – Pecan Parmesan Crusted Rainbow Trout. Ridiculously delicious. RED LOBSTER –  Customized Shrimp Linguine Alfedo, Dragon Shrimp Dive into Red Lobster and you may not want to come up for air. From shrimp platters that you can come up all on your own to Shrimp Linguine Alfredo, there isn’t much left to the imagination when it comes to Red Lobster and their menu. They have a globally inspired menu also from which you will want to order the Dragon Shrimp if you find yourself a little on the spicy side of life. Served over rice you will have crispy fried shrimp paired with broccoli and topped with a fiery dragon sauce. Mixing land and sea dishes isn’t unfamiliar to them and they do it with a bang, whilst the lobster platters will have you making a reservation for next week before you even leave the place. JOE’S CRAB SHACK –  Popcorn Shrimp, Crab Stuffed Mushrooms There isn’t a customer that doesn’t come away a winner at Joe’s Crab Shack, especially the seafood lovers. You can try their Popcorn Shrimp or Crab Stuffed Mushrooms to start with. Their main catch options vary from Twin Lobster Tails as well as Cedar Roasted Salmon. Nothing fishy about that! To go with all of that you should try some of their sea inspired cocktails. We dare you to choose just one. They have cool drinks like the Shark Bite, Patio Punch and Barefoot on the Beach. Yum! Step into any one of these restaurants and count your lucky stars because your taste buds will go on the ride of their life.   The post FABULOUS FISH DISHES YOU MUST TRY appeared first on Menu Prices Genie. Read the full article

[encyclopika]

Animal Crossing Fish - Explained #128

Brought to you by a marine biologist with the real McCoy...

CLICK HERE FOR THE AC FISH EXPLAINED MASTERPOST!

We covered the spiny lobster yesterday, which was not a true lobster. It didn’t have any claws, even though the rest of the body shape was similar to today’s true lobster. The difference is stark - look at those giant claws! Meaty and delicious and able to pinch with 100 pounds of pressure per square inch, those claws are not to be messed with! I’ve met my fair share of wild lobster (they do NOT come with the rubber bands on their claws) and they are so fascinating and beautiful! Lobsters are great. Fact.

Another one I just missed covering, but that’s okay - they will be back in April for us Northern Hemisphere people. But why the crazy schedule? IRL, the American Lobster (Homarus americanus), which this definitely is, is harvested throughout the year using lobster pots (basically big cages set on the bottom with an opening that’s easy for the lobsters to get in but hard for them to figure out how to get out), otter trawls (big nets dragged along the seafloor), and other methods. However, the lobsters move in- and off-shore through the year because they prefer a particular temperature range which coincides, somewhat, with what we see in ACNH. They don’t like it so cold (they are not an Arctic species), but they also can’t survive in very warm water due to disease and just generally being a more cold-water animal. (I am very disappointed they put this thing in the coral reef tank...that’s not where this goes smh) Even still, they have a means of defending themselves against predators, so they are out and about a lot looking for food once they are as big as depicted in ACNH.

Anyway, this is a true lobster boi, hailing from the Family Nephropidae. It’s closest relative in the game is not the spiny lobster, but actually the Crawfish which we covered a LONG time ago (it was #8, holy crap). Anyway, like I said above, this is the American Lobster (Homarus americanus), a native to the Northwest Atlantic around the US and Canada.

By U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - https://www.flickr.com/photos/noaaphotolib/5114738480/, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17176793

American lobsters steal the title for heaviest arthropod alive today, with some individuals creeping to 40 lbs (18 kg) and sometimes beyond. I’ll never forget the fishing trip in which I weighed a 37-pounder for work - it was almost as big as me! I’m not a very large human, but this was a very large lobster for sure! So, yeah, they get big! And they also get really old! American lobsters often live to be 50 years old in the wild, and many specimens have been estimated to reach over 100 years old, especially before fishing of the species occurred. In fact, lobsters may be functionally immortal! They do not slow down, weaken, or become less fertile as they get older thanks to a special enzyme that fixes their chromosomes and basically stops aging. The only thing that seems to naturally kill a healthy lobster (besides predation) is the stress from molting.

Ya see, when you’re an arthropod, you have an exoskeleton. It’s a hard outer layer, a cuticle, that protects the body and makes it rigid, providing a stiff place for muscles to attach and work. However, it doesn’t grow with the animal. Throughout their lives, arthropods must molt their exoskeleton and regrow a new one in order to get bigger. However, molting is insanely stressful - imagine how hard it is to get out of really tight-fitting clothes, and you have some idea. Now imagine taking off those clothes makes you really vulnerable to attack from predators and also conspecifics, because your species is cannibalistic at any opportunity. It takes days to re-harden, too, if you manage to get those clothes off. Molting, for the largest individuals of American lobster, is so stressful and difficult that they die in the process. And this literally seems to be the only thing stopping them from living forever.   

And there you have it. Fascinating stuff, no?

[petculiars]

What Do Crayfish Eat? The Crayfish Diet

New Post has been published on https://www.petculiars.com/what-do-crayfish-eat/

What Do Crayfish Eat? The Crayfish Diet

Although crayfish are among the most popular pets to own, there are a lot of people that still have no idea about what this creature likes to eat. The answer is funny, actually. Crayfish are considered omnivorous and eat anything from insects, to fish, meat, and shrimp, as well as vegetables and plants like Java moss.

Crayfish as a State Symbol

Let’s first start with a cool little nugget of information. The Pocambarus Clarkii, also known as the crayfish is the official state crustacean of Louisiana. This was established in 1983.

Some people also call Crayfish either crawdads or crawfish. Scientists say that currently, we know of 540 different species of crayfish all around the world. These types of crustaceans will use freshwater bodies as their natural habitat. In the wild, they can be found in the running water of rivers and other small streams. As long as their gills are wet, they can survive on land, although they are aquatic creatures. They are related to lobsters and in many ways are just smaller versions of these creatures.

You might also like my articles on octopus species that can be kept as pets, on how to stop fish from getting stuck to filter intake, and whether you can put a fish tank inside your bathroom.

The lifespan of the average crayfish is anywhere between 2 and 3 years.

Their Classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Subphylum: Crustacea

Class: Malacostraca

Order: Decapoda

Superfamily: Astacoidea

Their Diet

Because they are omnivorous, crayfish are able to eat basically anything that they find. This means that their diet can be any combination of plants like Hava moss, carrots, frozen peas, and other vegetables, along with table scrap, sinking pellets, insects that fall into their tank, fish, some types of meat, and even shrimp.

While in the wild, these crawdads won’t refuse a meal made of decomposed plants and grass that are rotting in the water. These are very easy to eat because decayed leaves are a lot easier to rip with their claws because they are soft. This means that your crayfish can also eat rotten plants from around your house. If you have spinach leaves or lettuce leaves that are going bad, just cut them into smaller pieces and throw them in the tank. These will be a great treat for these creatures.

If you want to diversify the diet of your crayfish you can even feed it small minnows, guppies, and other types of smaller fish. If you want to get more than one crayfish, make sure you keep them each in their own tank. Also, if you add other fish in the same tank as your crayfish, it might take only one day until you notice that the crawfish has eaten all of the fish in the tank.

If you throw in their tank dead fish from other tanks, they will happily eat those as well.

Crawfish are also known to eat a lot of snails, bacteria, and algae because these are found in abundance in their natural habitat along rivers and streams. This means that this pet will have no problem eating any bacteria and algae that might grow in its tank. This means that the water inside the tank will be most of the time purified and clean.

You shouldn’t expect your crawfish to feed off only algae and bacteria. You should also make sure you give it enough food to prevent it from starving. If you have more than one crawdad in a tank and they don’t have enough food, they will quickly resort to cannibalistic practices and will fight and even eat each other.

Another important thing to know about their diets is that as soon as they reach adulthood, they will start eating considerably fewer proteins per meal. This means that when your crayfish becomes an adult, you will have to switch its diet from a meat and fish one to one that is more inclined towards vegetables.

Physical Description

Different crayfish species will have different colors and sizes. Usually, you will notice that young specimens have a light tan color on their body, while adults will become a deeper shade of reddish-brown. These aren’t de only colors a crawdad can have. Some will be blue, while others will be green. The usual crayfish will have a size that varies between two and seven inches. They have a hard shell that covers their body and protects it. They also have sensory bristles on both their pincers, appendages, and legs, which will help them to smell, hear, feel, touch, and even eat things. They use their gills for breathing.

Reproduction

Crayfish are considered oviparous creatures. This means that after mating, the female will keep all of the eggs in its swimmerets that are located close to her tail, just under the abdomen. The small baby crayfish won’t just leave their mother when they hatch. Instead, they will stick to her tail until they are old enough to be self-sufficient. They will be able to eat on their own and will usually feed off of the tiny pieces of food that they will find in the water. They will go on their own way only when they are old enough to do so.

Their Bite

If a crayfish bites you, you shouldn’t feel anything more than a little sting. It won’t be very painful. Only if you have a larger specimen of crayfish will the sting bite feel more painful. If you know how to pick up this creature, they won’t be able to bite or escape. YOu should pick them up by grabbing them from the midsection to prevent any issues. It will take a little while for you to understand how to pick them up properly, but as soon as you do, you will never get bitten by a crawfish again.

The Uses of Crayfish

This creature is intensively used as a food source, being part of many recipes. People from many parts of the world consider the crayfish a delicacy. One of the most popular recipes will be made using boiled crawfish.

Some fishermen also use crayfish as bait. They will be great bait for catfish, pike, and other fish.

A lot of people also keep them as pets in aquariums. They have beautiful colors and their species are varied, making them great for aquarium life lovers.

Being so versatile, crayfish will be used for a lot of reasons. The fact that they can be both raised as pets and cooked in recipes causes a lot of tension between animal lovers and food lovers.

[informativeblogging]

The best guide on how to eat crawfish in 2022

While crawfish is unquestionably delicious, it is not the most convenient item to consume. As a result, people have been prevented from trying this delectable southern dish. It is, however, something you will be able to learn quickly. If you know what you're doing, learning how to eat crawfish isn't tough. 

To help you out, we've put together a beginner's guide to eating crawfish. We'll go over which pieces you should eat and which you should avoid. We'll finish with step-by-step instructions on how to eat Crawfish to make things even easier. Maybe you'll be on your way to the nearest crawfish restaurant after reading this guide!

Crawfish are little freshwater crustaceans that resemble lobsters but are not the same.

95 percent of the country's live crawfish are produced in Louisiana. Crawfish farming generates 100 million pounds of crawfish every year, so it's no wonder that it's ingrained in Cajun New Orleans culture.

Although Crayfish are more frequent in North America, Crawdads and Crawfish are more common in the south.

Hundreds of different species of crawfish may be found all over the world!

The head (cephalothorax) and the belly, which scoots backward, are the two main body sections of crawfish. Have you ever used the term "to crawfish" to get yourself out of a jam? This beast is the origin of the term... it's akin to fleeing from something.

The lifespan of a crawfish varies between 3 and 8 years, depending on whether it is wild or farmed. They are eaten by a variety of animals, including birds and fish. Many fishers actually use them as bait.

What Is the Taste of Crawfish?

Crawfish has a pleasant flavor that is comparable to that of shrimp and crab. It does, however, have its own particular flavor. There's no way to mix it up with anything else.

The texture is firm, comparable to shrimp, but the shell is much tougher, requiring a longer cooking time.

When boiling, a lot of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper are normally added (to puncture that shell), although this may be modified to taste. We like it in the middle; our kids don't mind a little spiciness, but not too much.

Crawfish Cooking Instructions: Step-by-Step

Now we can talk about how to consume crawfish. We recommend picking the biggest Crawfish possible to make things easier for you. You should anticipate getting your hands a little dirty.

Take the head and tail of the crawfish.

Pinch and drag the tail away from the head until it comes free.

As you would with a shrimp, peel the tail away from the meat.

Now is the time to start eating...

To be really honest, it's that easy. All you have to do now is go to your favorite crawfish restaurant and place a hefty order.

Final thoughts on how to eat crawfish

It's always rewarding to try new things. Eating crawfish can be a lot of fun if you get the hang of it. Why not host a crawfish boil for your friends and family? It's a supper that's best enjoyed by a group of people. When you go to your local Crawfish restaurant, keep all of the information on this post in mind.

Visit our website for the ultimate guide on how to eat crawfish.

[werewolfwilds]

i redid an ask meme that i had originally done ~3 years ago to see the comparison so for archiving purposes im putting it in a lil journal entry here ! i wanna start doing small journal entries again it was fun when i did that

new answers bolded

1) what images do you have set for your desktop/cell phone wallpapers?

my desktop bg is literally just…. a collage of kageyama manga screencaps a h a,,,, and my cellphone bg are drawings some gay drew me like 74724 years ago :v // my desktop rn is actually a background from one of the dmmd routes LMFAO..... idk which one it is but i’ve always liked those bg pics!! my cell lock screen is p5 art and my bg is leopika

2) have you ever had a crush on a teacher?

nooooope // nah

3) what was your last text message?

my phone is dead so i wouldnt be able to tell you lmfao i dont even remember // it was a gif from kelly lol

4) what do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

hopefully working a job i enjoy and making costumes and being happy!! // god i have no idea and it freaks me out... hopefully working,,

5) if you could be anywhere else right now, where would you be?

hoommee ((or at katsucon tbh)) // at the beach with friends maybe

6) what was your coolest halloween costume?

a white cat probably lmao // i dont think ive ever had a particularly exciting halloween costume but one year i was sharpay from high school musical and i think i peaked then tbh

7) what was your favorite 90s show?

uhhhh….. i didnt really… start watching tv until like… the 2000′s so i really cant tell you man lol // spongebob started in 1999 does that coUNT,

8) who was your last kiss?

(answer redacted) // :/ someone should kiss me so i can change this answer lmao

9) have you ever been stood up?

nope //  nah

10) favorite ice cream flavor?

vanilla w/ vanilla oreos ok u need to underst a n d // this hasn’t changed i haven’t had this particular ice cream in a long time but i still stand by it

11) have you been to las vegas?

nahh // nope

12) your favorite pair of shoes?

idk i have these black ones i wear everywhere lol // i have a pair of white sneakers that i refuse to stop wearing now

13) honestly, have you ever cheated on your significant other?

i wouldnt even consider it. // no bc i’m not a piece of shit lmao?

14) what is your favorite fruit?

hmmm…. pineapple orrr…. strawberries but only if they’re the really good kind like they have to be perfect // pineapple!!

15) have you talked to anyone on tumblr that you could see yourself  dating/having sex with? if possible?

….. ye s… yes. // in the past apparently so but thinking about it now nah lol

16) are you into hookups? short or long term relationships?

hookups arent my thing eh i prefer long term relationships altho i cant really say ive been in a “long” term relationship pffff // i don’t think hookups will ever be my thing, emotionally long term relationships are what i’m here for but i’m also a Very Impulsive Person so i cant tell you if this will stay a fact :’)

17) do you smoke? if so, what?

nope dont wanna // no thanks

18) what do you do to get over your anger?

usually talk to people or shout into word // i have to vent about it to someone probably a thousand times even months or years after it happens tbh

19) do you believe in god?

nahh // nah

20) does the person you’re in love with know it?

i aint in love with anyone rn so no? // i’m not in love with anyone.

21) favorite position?

………….. for w hat��……. // oh honey lmfao... N/A

22) what’s your horoscope sign?

virgo/ox ovob // Virgo/sun, Aries/moon, Libra/rising and Cancer/midheaven

23) your fears?

literally everything i already named a few so ill name some others… ghh anything in… the ocean or lakes and stuff frightens me and i really dont know why bu tlike…. fish and crabs and jellyfish and seaweed cuz it’s evil and stu f f basically anything that’s not a mammal or turtles or penguins…. lo l im a baby // uncertainty is a big fear of mine and also people being mad at me lmao... as far as physical fears though i have debilitating fears of almost all insects/arachnids and lobsters/shrimp/crawfish :^)))))

24) how many pets do you have? what kind?

two cats and a dog!! // one cat one dog

25) what never fails to turn you on?

i dunno,,/////// // lol neck biting/kissing oof

26) your idea of a perfect first date?

im okay with mostly anything i just really like spending time with the person ; v ; // i’ve never really had an answer for this? thinking about dates has always made me so anxious for whatever reason but i’ll be happy to just spend time with them doing whatever honestly, i’m a super indecisive person aha

27) what is something most people don’t know about you?

i dont really know tbh lmfao // i’ve considered in the past looking into mental conditions (anxiety/bpd/etc) to see if i might have one or two but i never want to say anything about it because i don’t want to self-diagnose anything.

28) what makes you feel the happiest?

nice weather and nice conversations w/ best people u//v//u // nice weather and hanging out with people who are fun and easy to talk to

29) what store do you shop at most often?

does….. arda wigs count or… // does arda wigs still count bc mood lmao but truthfully now it’s probably target

30) how do you feel about oral? giving and/or receiving?

kkdkjsfkjkjfj??fsfj/// go for i t??? i have no problems with i t??? i dont think ill ever be willing to put a dick in my mouth though // these random sexual questions thrown in here are something aren’t they lmao. not going to disclose much but i will stand by the fact that i will not put a dick in my mouth lo l

31) do you believe in karma?

sometimes ye // i believe that people will eventually get what’s coming to them but i don’t believe in karma as a solid concept if that makes sense? like i don’t think it’s guaranteed

32) are you single?

yup yup // yeah it’s been wild lmao

33) do you think flowers or candy are a better way to apologize?

i think being sincere is the best way to apologize– if you truly mean it the person will know. you dont need to buy your forgiveness. // the best way to apologize is just to apologize sincerely and change your behavior if it’s applicable.

34) are you a good swimmer?

ehh??? im ok i guess– i took swimming lessons as a kid but i havent done legit swimming ever since then lmao,, ive always been best at the backstroke tho yea // i mean i have the ability to swim but i’m not olympic-worthy or anything lmao

35) coffee or tea?

ehhh im not big on either tbh // chocolate milk and you can fight me

36) online shopping or shopping in person?

depends what your shopping for i guess?? online is more relaxed i guess // online probably because shopping in person Gives Me Anxiety

37) would you rather be older or younger than your current age?

ehhh im happy where i am tbh // older

38) cats or dogs?

do not make me choose // cats and dogs* there i fixed it for you

39) are you a competitive person?

ahaa,,,,, oh god yeah,, // OOF yeah

40) do you believe in aliens?

i believe there’s life on other planets somewhere?? so i guess?? // i believe in aliens in the sense that there’s no way we are the only living life forms in the universe but not in the science-fiction way you feel me

41) do you like dancing?

i do but i suck at it lmao // i do but i: A- suck, and B- have no stamina

42) what kind of music to you listen to?

nearly everything tbh // i’m not picky when it comes to music but imma be real w u. almost all of the music on my phone is kpop. seventeen is my favorite group along with astro, and i also enjoy super junior, shinee, red velvet, etc among so many others,,, im pretty wide spread !

43) what is your favorite cartoon character?

i will never be able to pick just one // i’ll literally never be able to answer this

44) where are you from?

philadelphia uvu // philly!

45) eat at home or eat out?

hmmm at home. // at home

46) how much more social are you when you’re drunk?

i never plan on being drunk tyvm // i’ve never consumed alcohol in my life and to be Quite Fucking Honest i want nothing to do with it

47) what was the last thing you bought for yourself?

bracelets ! ; u ; // uh... excluding food and music... earrings i think

48) why do you think your followers follow you?

uhhhhhhh lmfao i have no idea i think… a good amount are for my cosplays at least?? or id like to think so lmfao but i really dont know pfft // my followers have just accumulated and hung around over the years... i know i gained a good amount from my snk days as arlert-the-troops and then through my haikyuu phase, whether it was for my cosplay or other posts that i made... whenever someone follows me now im not entirely sure what its for but i appreciate everyone who’s stuck around!

49) how many hours do you sleep at night?

it’s never regular man // 6-9 (lol) hours is pretty normal for me

50) what worries you most about the future?

everything tbh // the future as a concept worries me lol

[dola34]

Voltron Defenders of Atlantis

Chapter 4

“So this is what the inside of a submarine looks like.” Shiro said as brought his stuff to his assigned room. “Room 300B,” Shiro muttered to himself and opened the iron casted door.

Inside were two bunk beds and stuff on all but one were scattered across the room. Shiro shrugged and claimed the one not filled with stuff. Which was the bottom bunk and to the right. He sighed and laid down, ready to take a power nap before dinner. He looked to his left to see the one person he didn’t want to see in the entire world.

“Slav!” He shouted and got up to bang his head on the bed top. He groaned in pain while Slav got down from the top bunk. “Hello Shiro. The probability of meeting you here in this dimension was 300%.” He said smiling at Shiro and who turned his back to him.

“Shiro-” Slav said as he look at him with sadness. Slav gulped and he went to touch him. “Why are you here? After all isn’t Atlantis just a silly wild goose chase.” Shiro snapped causing Slav to freeze.

“A wild goose chase it maybe but the probability of finding Atlantis is not zero.” Slav whispered out and Shiro looked towards him. It was silent as both of them stared at each other until Shiro sighed. Laying back down on his bed Slav smiled and slithered onto Shiro’s chest.

“Slav get off! Your heavy!” Shiro cried but Slavs lanky body curled around him like snake. Forcing Shiro to lay in his bed. Shiro struggled to get Slav off. They continued to wrestle with each other until the squeaking of metal told him another was joining. Both he and Slav looked up to see a man with dark skin walking inside.

He had dark brown hair with brown skin. A towel hung around his neck and he had no shirt on and wore brown pants. “A nice shower after a strenuous work out.” He said then looked down to see Shiro and Slav. Who paused their struggle to look at the newcomer.

“Did I interrupted anything?” He asked raising his eyebrow at them. Shiro and Slav froze. Silence eclipsed the room until the man shrugged and went over to his bunk.

Shiro gasped snapping out of his frozen state to shout, “no no no nonono!” Renewing his pushing to get Slav off to no avail. After struggling for a few more seconds Shiro sighed and laid back down.

“The name is Shiro and this,” pointing to Slav “is Slav.” Shiro said then offering his hand to him. Rax arched a thick eyebrow but took his hand. “Rax. You better not go near my sister.” Rax grumbled the last part out and Shiro quickly nodded.

“What who’s your sister?” Shiro asked. “The girl on the intercom. So stay away from her. Its bad enough one man is after her. I don’t need another suitor to chase away.” Rax grumbled out and dug in his bag for some cloths.

“Attention. Attention. Can Mister Shiro please go up to the observation deck. Can Mister Shiro please come to the observation deck.” Shay’s voice said from the intercom. Shiro sighed out and looked at Slav as he looked up at him with innocent eyes.

“Slav. Get off.” Shiro said looking down at him. “The probability of that happening is .0009 percent.” Salv said hugging him tighter. Shiro stared down at him and sighed. “Desperate times call for desperate measures.” Shiro stumbled up and walked over to a crack.

“Don’t make me step on a crack.” Shiro said and Slav looked up at him in horror. “What about your mother back?” Slav cried out looking up at him. Then looked down at the crack right in front of them. “She’ll live.” Shiro deadpanned and Slav started to tear up.

“Your so heartless and cruel!” Slav cried letting go of Shiro to scrambled up into his bunk bed. No one made a peep as Rax looked up at the quivering pile of blanket where Slav hide. “He actually believes in that nursery rhymes?” Rax asked looking at Shiro and who shrugged. “It could happen! In alternate dimensions!” Slav cried from under his blanket.

Rax snorted and went back to his cloths as Shiro went to leave for the observatory deck. “This trip is going to be interesting.” Rax said as he hopped into his blue jumper. Shiro couldn’t help but agree as he closed the door to their shared room.

Up at the observation deck

The deck was huge and could easily fit 100 men. There were stairs leading to the steering wheel and observation deck. Underneath it was the control center and communication center where a young girl with dark brown hair and brown skin was talking.

The entire deck was made of glass. Allowing the people to see outside into the murky depths of the ocean. Shiro walked over to the stairs slowly as he took in the sight.

At the front was Zarkon next to the wheel along with Allura and Lance. Lance was busy flirting to an unresponsive Allura who was looking at her clipboard. Lounging around the railings were Pidge, Coran and Hunk. Pidge was working on a toy robot while Hunk was busy looking over a recipe book with Coran.

“Shiro reporting for duty.” Shiro said and saluted Zarkon who saluted back. Everyone turned to him and Zarkon as put their stuff away. They formed a single line in front of Zarkon and behind Shiro. “Shiro brief us on what you know about Atlantis.” Zarkon said

Shiro nodded and started to dig through his backpack for something. “Where are they?” He mumbled out as a black board and projector were pulled up by an assistant. They were set across from each other.

Shiro cleared his throat and went over to a projector. Picking through the slide cards they suddenly tumble out of his shaky fingers. He smiled while scratching his neck and bent down to pick them up.

“He’s not going to last one month like that on this expedition. I used to take lunch money from guys like him.” Pidge said as he leaned onto Lance. Lance snickered then winked at Allura who rolled her eyes and Coran glared at Lance. Pidge rolled his eyes as well and elbowed him in the ribs.

A buzz came from the projector as Shiro turned it on and placed a slide inside to show a picture. On it were Atlantian words and a picture of a crustacean like beast with its pinchers tearing ships in half.

“Before we head into the entrance of Atlantis it is said that a huge creature called the Leviathan guards the entrance. Its said to be so terrible that sailors were driven mad by just seeing it.” Shiro said and they all looked at him unimpressed.

“So its a crab.” Shiro looked at Lance and raised an eyebrow at him. “Isn’t it a crawfish?” Shiro asked. “Looks like lobster to me.” Pidge pipped up and everyone looked at him. “Wrong. Its a crab.” “Crawfish!” “It can’t be because Crawfish are teenie weenie little things. Who would base a monster off of them!” Lance cried. “Crabs aren’t that big either.” Shiro pointed out. “W-well…at least their cooler than yours.” Lance cried.

“What about a lobster?!” Pidge cried. “What are you talking about Pidge. Look at those pinchers. Their huge. Definitely a crabs pinchers.” Lance cried pointing to the paintings pinchers. “What about those smaller mouth pinchers. Those belong to crawfish!” Shiro said pointing to the smaller pinchers that were near the creatures mouth. “But its body is that of a lobster!” Pidge pointed to its body and everyone had to agree there.

“So which is it?” Hunk asked and everyone debated over it while Zarkon and Allura tapped their feet. They both had their arms crossed and faces flushed with anger. Their tapping grew quicker and Coran quietly backed off as their faced pinched in anger.

“Enough!” They both yelled causing everyone to look at them. “It doesn’t matter what it is. But if that thing is real then we’ll become the prey on this expedition!” Allura said. “Shiro continue on with the presentation and no more distractions!” Zarkon said glaring at Hunk, Pidge and Lance.

Shiro nodded then cleared his throat and went back to explaining. “The Leviathan is a creature described in the Book of Job. The Bible says that out of his mouth comes burning blue lights. Sparks of fire shooting out. But its probably just a statue or a carving to scare away superstitious folks.”

“Thats one hell of a carving then.” Lance said and Zarkon glared at him. “So how are we going to get to the entrance of Atlantis?” Allura asked and everyone nodded their heads. “Do we have to dig our way in?” Coran perked up at that and straightened up.

“We don’t have to.” Shiro turned off the projector and started to draw. “When we reach our destination we will be going down a curve that leads to an underground cavern. There we should find remnants of an ancient highway leading to Atlantis.” Shiro said and Coran slumped back down.

“Captain Zarkon. You might want to see this.” An older woman said from the steering wheel. The lady was hunched over wearing a cloak with a hood over her head. Her long white hair and yellow eyes creeped everyone out.

“Haggar whats the matter.” Zarkon asked walking up to where she was. “I’m turning the lights on now as we speak.” She flipped a switch and lights turned on and lit up the bottom. To show wreckages of boats littering the sea floor. Shiro gaped in amazement as he slowly took in the boats.

“There’s ships here from every era. Greece, Italy, Rome and even Viking!” Shiro said as the submarine pasted by them.

“C-commander Zarkon. I think you would really want to hear this.” Shay’s voice said over the intercom and echoed in the quiet room. “Shay what is it?” Zarkon asked ignoring Shiro’s mumbling as he translated the Shepherds Journal.

“I picked up something on the Hydrophone that just isn’t natural.” Shay said and Zarkon raised an eyebrow. “Put it on speakers Shay.” Zarkon commanded and a click could be heard.

A deep groan echoed through the submarine causing workers look up. Their eyes wide as they looked at each other.

“What is is? A pod of whales?” Zarkon asked joining Shay in the communications center. Allura and Coran right behind him. “Its bigger and there’s only one.” Shay said turning the dial up. “It sounds almost metallic.” Allura said pressing her ear to the microphone.

“Is it getting louder?” Lance asked looking around the observation deck. Pidge nodded and slowly looked around while Hunk tried to hide behind Lance. The noise died down and everyone released a breath they didn’t know they were holding.

“Whatever it was. Sounds like its gone now.” Coran said but Allura narrowed her eyes with her lips pursed. “Haggar bring us about. Its time we searched for that curve.” Zarkon boomed out but Allura continued to stare at the microphone. “Allura sometimes the matter?” Coran asked. “I don-” the ship violently rocked and tumbled like they were hit by something. Causing everyone to fall onto the floor. The screams of men and women filled the air.

[multipleforks]

The Daniel. For anyone who has ever dined here, you know, it’s that one name, one word that embodies so many descriptors. Exquisite, lavish, classy, opulent, wealthy, elegant. It’s a place that should be on everyone’s list when it comes to fine dining in America (assuming of course, you have that list!) There’s something about the main dining area that makes you feel like you’re living in the affluent and prosperous Roman Empire days. Perhaps it’s the large, white, coliseum pillars that outline the room or maybe it’s the high vaulted ‘church like’ white ceiling? In any case, it is hands down one of the fanciest and classiest restaurants in New York City and if you ever have the opportunity to eat here, you definitely should!

The restaurant itself has many rooms. There’s the quaint, upscale bar area, which is a bit reminiscent of the 1970s bar in the movie, The Shining, as there are only four bar chairs and there’s a dim yellowish/greenish lighting. Then there’s the luxurious, and extensive main dining room and the private rooms that can be rented out for special occasions, like the Bellecour room, off the restaurant’s lounge, which is named after the historic town square located in the hometown of Daniel Bloulud’s hometown, Lyon to the super exclusive Skybox which offers a bird’s eye view of the Daniel kitchen, and is easily one of the most unique dining experiences in all of New York City.

On the random Monday evening we dined here, our party was lucky enough to have a table front and center in the dining room which allowed a wonderful 360-degree view of everyone around us. On the walls surrounding the dining room area, which is squared off by the Romanesque pillars, are large artwork masterpieces of miscellaneous things, along with lots of beautiful plants and flowers, giving the room a nice, soft touch. Looking up, the ceiling is also reminiscent of the Ancient Roman Empire, but oddly enough the magnificent curricular chandeliers that hang from the ceiling have a playful 1970’s disco ball feel to them, it’s quite the dichotomy.

The restaurant, which is only open for dinner, offers three options for dining, the prelude, before 6pm three-course prix-fix, the four-course tasting, or the seven-course tasting menu prepared by the chef. (There is also the option of pairing wine with your meal). We opted for the four courses which was ever so perfect for us. (For four courses we were there for three hours, I can’t imagine how long seven courses would take, we might need to sleep there!) Luckily the menu is arranged in terms of first course, second course and third course so that you aren’t completely confused where to start. All options sound so uniquely spectacular, it really was hard to choose just three! (Ask your waiter for recommendations, I allowed him to choose my entire menu. The man has been there for most of his life, he definitely knows what’s up!)

Once we ordered our three main courses, they came by with mini mushroom tarts to start accompanied by a poached lobster dish with seasonal green vegetables. After that we were given a taste of their chilled pea soup with smoked cheese. It was beautifully pureed and tasted like the peas had just been picked from the local garden. Delightful, pallet cleansing starter.

For the first course, the very respectful cordial, knowledgeable, and direct waiter suggested the New Orleans Crayfish with Pike Mousseline, Wild Daylilly, Crystalline Tempura, and Fava Beans. The dish was such an incredible burst of flavor. It had a creamy taste up front, mixed with a slight fishy taste from the crawfish, and a crispy flavor from the tempura. The seasonal veggies also added a nice, earthy finish. It was a bit like eating a creamy Mexican dish exploding with cream and tons of spices.

For course two, our lovely waiter recommended the white asparagus, which is in season this spring. Europeans go crazy for white asparagus when the season begins. In fact, it is so revered that full blown festivals mark the season. Chefs go crazy for this mild, colorless, almost sweet tasting vegetable. What is white asparagus you might ask? Its asparagus that never sees the light of day as it’s grown underground. Growers cover the spears in mounded dirt or black plastic tunnels so that they’re not exposed to light and don’t produce chlorophyll (which would turn them green). As delightful as this vegetarian dish sounded, it’s also not everyday you see squab breast on the menu, so I went with that. (For those of you unaware, squab is a young pigeon, it cuts like duck meat, hearty, dark meat poultry). Apparently, it’s a very difficult meat to cook, so you will very rarely see it on the menu. (Interesting how Michelin restaurants serve ‘flying rats’ on their menu, huh? I digress). The broiled squab was served medium rare and had a delicious skin on it, made of a French curry spice blend. The dish also came with a delightful green puree and fresh green asparagus.

Course three offered so many unique and creative dishes. The quail was stuffed with foie gras in a pastry like casing. It was served with cabbage and mushroom on the side with a splash of white wine and sherry sauce both on top and to the side of the meat. It came with a side of ‘crispy rice’ that was almost like eating Rice Krispies with a delicious cheesy finish. Another diner at our table ordered their notable Elysian Fields Farm Roasted Lamb Chop with barley, young radishes, and nettle emulsion, which well a picture does equal a thousand words…

Throughout the course of the evening, the bread server came out numerous times to offer us a variety of bread options, which we gobbled down like there was a bread shortage somewhere in New York City. The brioche was warm, with a delightful crispy, slightly buttery outside with warm, delicious dough on the inside and the Parmesan bread had the most delightful flavor of Parmesan and fluffy ‘cloud like’ dough.

Finally, came the best part of the evening, the wonderful finale, dessert. The dessert menu was unlike anything I had ever seen before (and apparently it changes often!). We decided to order four different desserts and do a ‘musical dessert’ so that we could all try one another’s. The pistache was a definite favorite. It was pistachio ice cream in a hard chocolate casing with salted caramel and praline with a sweet and savory dash of ice cream on the side. Another dessert was a unique taste on lemon meringue. The dish came with two little hardened shells of meringue, with a lovely dash of lemon on the inside. As with most Michelin restaurants, little compliments from the chef were aplenty. We were bestowed with warm madeleines (lightly browned pieces of dough, shaped similarly to muffins, dusted with powered sugar), along with a plate of homemade chocolates and little ‘Daniel’ boxes to take home that were filled with little cakes dusted in brown syrup.

After the meal, Chef Daniel Boulud came out and said hello and offered to briefly show us the kitchen. The kitchen staff were busy at work, winding down for the evening, and thoroughly cleaning and re-cleaning every nook and cranny of the kitchen, but most were happy to say hello. As you would expect, the kitchen was impeccable, with ‘Michelin two stars’ signs hanging front and center. Chef Daniel was more than hospitable and was happy to briefly chat with us and take pictures. He also pointed up to the Skybox and joked that we needed to eat there next time as we could watch the chefs prepare our food for us. (Funny he mentioned that, as there was a table of four eating front and center in the kitchen when we arrived. Best table in the house for sure! Overall, it was a spectacular meal. The service was outstanding, the food was incredible, the ambiance was second to none. Just about everything was as close to perfection as humanely possible. A highly recommended dinner for your next celebration (or a random Monday evening, who’s judging?!)

A Review of the Daniel The Daniel. For anyone who has ever dined here, you know, it’s that one name, one word that embodies so many descriptors.

[tonyduncanbb73]

Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend Around Boston: The New Restaurant Edition

Pay a visit to these recently opened spots

Welcome back to Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, a weekly column in which the Eater Boston team recommends, well, five restaurants to try this weekend. Every Friday, we offer up a blend of old and new spots, typically including a mix of suggestions in Boston proper, Cambridge/Somerville, and farther afield. Sometimes there’s a topical theme; sometimes we just share our favorite standbys or the new places that are exciting us. Bookmark this page for updates; we add new recommendations to the top each week. Can’t hit ‘em all in one weekend? That’s what next weekend is for.

Want more recommendations from Eater staff and fellow readers? Join the Eater Boston Facebook group. Want to make sure your favorite hidden gem is on our radar? Send tips to us via email.

March 30, 2018: The New Restaurant Edition

If you’re not otherwise tied up with Easter or Passover celebrations this weekend, it may be a good time to score a reservation at one or two (or five) of the hot new dining destinations around town. This week’s Five Restaurants to Try are newish to very new and are quickly making names for themselves. From spicy seafood to fried chicken to sashimi, here are some recommendations for the weekend.

For beautiful ceviche and friendly hospitality: Celesteis tiny and adorable and wonderful. The Peruvian restaurant joined Union Square’s bustling dining scene earlier this month, serving up ceviche, lomo saltado (pictured above), and more, along with a nice selection of booze, with a focus on pisco and mezcal. Want to try it this weekend? Note that it’s closed Sundays but open until midnight on Saturdays, with an abbreviated late-night menu kicking in at 10 p.m. 21 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville

For a taste of Uruguay and beyond in a swanky old diner car: La Bodega— from the owners of Cambridge’sacclaimed Salts, which was forced to close in early 2014 due to a burst pipe — sort of quietly opened around Christmas with plans to slowly extend the menu and hours as time went on. It’s been building up momentum over the past few months, and regardless of whether it’s actually celebrated a “grand” opening yet, it’s already well worth a visit. It’s a unique, romantic space (be warned that it can get loud, especially in the diner car section, so don’t count on a very quiet evening.) Drink some wine; eat some steak and assorted small plates; be happy. 21 Nichols Ave., Watertown

For heavenly hushpuppies and hot chicken: And biscuits, too. Southern Proper really does smell like pine, as promised, and the attractive space is the perfect spot in which to gorge yourself on fried chicken — available in classic and hot styles; get the hot if you can handle a bit of a slow burn. Perhaps it’s a bit of a carb-heavy combo for one sitting, but the hushpuppies, biscuits, and chicken are all must-try items, so wear your stretchy pants and dig in.600 Harrison Ave., South End, Boston

For a fun, messy date night: Another newbie in the neighborhood is Bootleg Special, jumping into Boston’s growing Cajun seafood boil scene. Throw on the provided bib and gloves before diving into a big bowl of spicy seafood — choose from crawfish, lobster, shrimp, and more — and be sure to add something boozy on the side, such as a hurricane or daiquiri. 400 Tremont St., South End, Boston

For pretty plates of Japanese food with a touch of Hawai‘i, not to mention loads of sake: Momi Nonmiis the elder of this batch of recommendations, having opened back in October 2017, but we’ll allow it. Located in the former East by Northeast space (it was briefly a burger joint after that), Momi Nonmi serves up beautiful dishes of sashimi, tempura, and more. Splurge on the wagyu beef dumplings, don’t miss the duck confit rice dish, and try out the sizzling loco moco if you’ve got room left. Fan of sake and shochu? The staff will be eager to discuss options with you. 1128 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge

March 23, 2018: The Bao Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Squid ink oyster bao and pork belly bao at Pagu

Today’s theme is bao, simply because we’ve been eating them a lot lately and want to share a few recent favorites with you. Bao is a bit of an ambiguous word; it pops up on menus all over town to refer both to fully enclosed baozi (steamed or baked buns stuffed with various meats or other fillings) and to the wide world of variations on gua bao, or pork belly buns, which sort of resemble a fluffy taco or a sandwich where the bread’s connected on one side. Boston’s got both, but we’re just going to focus on the latter today — steamed bread folded around the traditional filling of pork belly or a range of other meats, sauces, and toppings.

For a meal that fuses Japanese food with Spanish and beyond: Now a little over a year old, Pagu is part of the increasingly awesome edge of Central Square by MIT, a short stretch of Massachusetts Avenue that includes Saloniki, A4cade, Naco Taco, Abide, and lots more. The pork belly bao, served with pickles, peanuts, and cilantro, is exceptional, and there’s another option as well — jet-black squid ink oyster bao, stuffed with panko oyster, “norioli” (nori aioli, naturally), and purple cabbage. Decidedly less traditional; equally worth trying. Also eat: jamón ibérico, Guchi’s midnight ramen, and cedar campfire black cod. 310 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

For a fun, boozy meal to a loud hip-hop soundtrack: You know it; you love it. Shojo is still going strong in Chinatown — and it’s now a big sibling to two nearby spots, BLR by Shojo and Ruckus. Order a cocktail and get the bulgogi beef bao (with marinated carrots and shinko pear gochujang), the Shojo pig bao (smoked barbecue sauce, kimchi, jalapeno), or the curry cauliflower bao (black bean mayo, onion rings, pea greens). Also eat: pork belly dumplings and shadowless fries. 9A Tyler St., Chinatown, Boston

For a Tiki hangover that is totally worth it: New downtown spot Tiki Rockis a blast. It’s colorful, it’s noisy, and it’s serving up a variety of Tiki drinks that’ll make you happy and pretty tipsy. The food menu focuses on sushi, but there are also some non-sushi entrees, skewers, and appetizers, including the pork belly bun. The pork has a chili maple soy glaze, and it’s served with uni mayo, lettuce, and nori seasoning. Also eat: coconut shrimp and winter squash dumplings, and how about a bowl of ramen at Oisa Ramen next door? 2 Broad St., Downtown Boston

For even more sushi and even more cocktails: Here’s another loud, energy-packed, sushi-packed, boozy option — Fat Baby in South Boston. There’s steak bao (skirt steak, hoisin, pickled Fresnos, bean sprouts) and chicken bao (Thai herbs, carrot, daikon, green chiles, hoisin, and “boom boom” aioli). The Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar sibling also has some solid cocktails. Also eat: the crispy rice cake snack with tuna, any of the crudo options, and the spicy tuna roll. 118 Dorchester St., South Boston

For bao that are not quite bao but eat them anyway: This is theleast bao-like option of the bunch, but Eventide Fenway’s acclaimed brown butter lobster roll and fried oyster bun are served on light, squishy bao-style buns. It’s an easy win for anyone who loves bao and seafood. Also eat: Maine lobster stew, the green salad, and brown butter soft serve. 1321 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

March 16, 2018: The Beard Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Harissa barbecue duck at Sarma

The James Beard awards — aka the “Oscars of the food world” — are coming up fast, and the nominee list was just announced earlier this week, including a handful of local folks. For the inaugural edition of Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, we’re featuring restaurants from Boston’s nominees.

For a truly lovely meal you probably won’t be able to eat this weekend because the restaurant’s basically booked up forever: Look, it’s probably too late to get reservations to Sarma for this weekend; sorry. Plan ahead for next weekend…or, like, a month from now. (Or walk in and put your name on the bar waitlist. Try showing up right at 5 p.m. on Sunday.) From Best Chef: Northeast nominee Cassie Piuma, Sarma — sibling to Oleana and Sofra (home to Outstanding Baker nominee Maura Kilpatrick) — serves up “an exhilarating survey of the herbaceous, sun-baked flavors of the Middle East,” according to Eater’s national critic Bill Addison, who named it to his 2016 list of the best restaurants in America. Highlights on the current menu include the Black Sea cornbread, venison wrapped dates, and harissa barbecue duck (pictured above). When ordering, save room for the specials that circulate the room like dim sum, especially the fried chicken. 249 Pearl St., Winter Hill, Somerville

For a dim sum brunch: Sarma’s got its dim sum-like trays of specials; Myers + Chang has dim sum brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. — you’ve got plenty of time to sleep in. The self-proclaimed “indie diner,” a longtime South End staple, serves a “very personal interpretation of Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese specialties,” which includes brunch necessities like Mama Chang’s pork and chive dumplings; grilled corn with Sriracha butter; tea smoked ribs; wild boar dan dan noodles (“hotterest” on the restaurant’s spicy scale); and lots more. Executive chef and partner Karen Akunowicz is a nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. 1145 Washington St., South End, Boston

For a mai tai-soaked brunch: Let’s say you make it to Myers + Chang for Saturday brunch. Why not hit up Tiger Mamafor Sunday brunch (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), from Best Chef: Northeast nominee Tiffani Faison? There’s everything from Fruity Pebbles doughnuts to a bacon and cheddar-stuffed waffle that comes with Thai chili butter and maple-glazed bacon, not to mention a rotating selection of enticing cocktails. Past Sundays have featured mai tais; a bloody mary that included tamari, sambal, and wasabi; and more. 1363 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

For a baller sushi feast: Go nuts at Uni, and don’t even worry about thinking — there are a number of omakase options that leave it all in the hands of the chef, spanning from a 10-piece nigiri omakase ($58) up to $185 for an epic tasting of the restaurant’s immaculate sushi. There are plenty of other ways to drop some major cash here as well, from a whole tray of Maine uni for DIY hand rolls ($65) to beluga hybrid caviar ($375). While sushi’s the focus, there are some don’t-miss hot dishes as well. Our pick: the Korean rice cakes with kalbi oxtail, kimchi butter, and gremolata. Chefs and partners Ken Oringer and Tony Messina are both up for Beards — Oringer for Outstanding Restaurateur and Messina for Best Chef: Northeast. 370 Commonwealth Ave., the Eliot Hotel, Back Bay, Boston

For the weirdest “I can’t believe this menu actually works” menu: Oringer is also behind, among other spots, Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square, which he co-owns with Jamie Bissonnette. (The two of them recently debuted a ready-made food crawl that brings diners to Toro, Coppa, and Little Donkey in a row, with transportation included in the price.) When the duo opened Little Donkey in 2016 — one of the top newcomers of the year — they spoke about how they’re tied to certain themes at their other restaurants, but Little Donkey is a place to break the rules and cook whatever they want. That means that matzo ball ramen co-exists with an extensive raw bar selection, duck nachos, seriously spicy Jamaican jerk chicken wings, and lots more. It shouldn’t work. It does. Don’t miss the manti (Istanbul meat ravioli), poke, or Parker House rolls. 505 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

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Top 12 Spring Honeymoon Destinations For All Travelers

Alright Spring brides and grooms, the countdown is on! Two, three, maybe four months away from your wedding day we have to ask you…have you booked your honeymoon? Put away that guest seating chart and let’s do some fun travel planning for a change, we’ve got our top twelve favorite honeymoon destination for Spring newlyweds!

We’ve chatted a bit recently about reasons you don’t need to put off your honeymoon, and if it’s getting down to the wire on honeymoon planning, we’ve rounded up all the best destinations for all types of travelers. Whether you’re an adventurous Airbnb trekking couple, or more “fresh towels everyday” luxury lover, there’s a perfect Spring honeymoon destination for you.

Photo by Greg Finck via Bridal Musings

Honeymoon Destinations For Adventure Seekers

Backpackers, Airbnb lovers, thrill seekers rejoice! So many adventurous honeymoon treks are in their height during the spring, thanks to thawing snow and ice in the Northern Hemisphere and cooling temperatures in the Southern realm.

Safari dreamers will want to head to Tanzania in March, when the humidity drops and before the crowds grow large. Take a tour to the wildlife-rich Serengeti, let a luxury camp plan your stops and safari or DIY your own wildlife trek stopping at smaller wildlife outfitters along the way.

Photo by Jordan Voth via Green Wedding Shoes

Newlyweds who’ve always dreamed of a tour through the Southwest, United States should take advantage of the winter thaw and lack of crowds. While the Grand Canyon and Zion are undoubtedly beautiful, consider under-the-radar, and just as majestic Canyon de Chelly.

With the Navajo Nation still residing within the canyon’s walls, you get a more authentic, less touristy experience – as in, no tourists at all. Camp for free at the canyon’s mouth, or pay a ($11) visit to Howard’s Spider Rock Campground with one of the most incredible views I, myself, have ever seen in my life. Listen to the echoes of wild horses stampede through the canyon below, and see if you can count the millions of stars above.

Photo by Darin Images via Bridal Musings

Luxurious Honeymoon Destinations

Beachside massages, Balinese teak wood cottages, incredibly crafted cuisine, and a whole lot of relaxation are to be had anywhere along the coast of Vietnam. Thanks to the country’s incredible affordability, you can find a luxury honeymoon that fits most any couple’s budget.

Visit the charming small beach village of Hoi An, and stay for $60 a night in this antique filled Vietnamese villa, (away from the backpacker crowd) just steps from the sand. The villa comes with bicycles to tour the rice paddies and make friends with water buffalo, and a private chef who arrives daily to prepare authentic and bountiful traditional Vietnamese meals as part of the nightly rate!

Photo via Six Senses

Looking to splurge? A number of eye-catching, five-star resorts lie along the Southern coast in Nha Trang. We have our eyes on Six Senses, with their private villas, sexy bathrooms, spa treatments and gorgeous seaside views.

Budget-Friendly Honeymoon Destinations

Looking to get the most bang for your buck on your honeymoon? Spring is luckily the “shoulder-season” for so many popular destinations, helping you snag that coveted honeymoon suite. But you don’t necessarily have to sacrifice the best weather for a good price; we’ve selected destinations that are both budget-friendly and have fabulous Spring climates.

Photo by Claire Eliza via Bridal Musings

Discover Morocco at its best in the Springtime. Temperatures range in the 70s throughout the country, and prices are always cheap, whether travel is peak or off-peak. Visit the gorgeous blue-walled city of Chefchouen, shop the souks of Marrakech while relaxing at a luxurious riad for just $30 a night, enjoy one euro lobster and easy-going beach vibes in Essaouira and take that once in a lifetime desert trek through the Sahara.

While most of Europe has yet to warm to beach weather, the Canary Islands are nearly always honeymoon-ready. With inexpensive flights from nearly all of Europe (and falling prices even from the USA!) the Canaries remains one of the warmest and most budget-friendly destinations in Europe each Spring. Rent an ocean view private chalet for $70 a night, visit the moon-like volcanic wineries, and enjoy fresh from the boat seafood.

Honeymoon Destinations For Foodies

Maybe you’re like Jack and I and you travel purely for food? While your taste certainly decides what destination is honeymoon worthy, our picks are diverse in flavor and price.

Photo by Claire Eliza

The smallest city in America with enough fine dining to earn it’s own Eater office, and the refuge of many NYC chefs and sommeliers, is the charming Southern food mecca, Charleston, South Carolina. The weather in the Spring is divine, and the summer crowds have yet to arrive.

Stay in one of the classic, colorful colonial homes on the peninsula, and spend your days sampling the city’s Southern food (until you can’t walk anymore). Visit Sean Brock’s celebration of Southern cuisine at Husk and have a whiskey cocktail and aged ham at his historic bar next door. Find out what makes low-country oysters so special at 167 Raw, and don’t leave town until you’ve had a few pounds of garlic crab and crawfish at Nonna’s Seafood.

Photo by Greg Finck via Bridal Musings

While most of Thailand is growing hellishly hot, Chiang Mai, in the northern high country, remains quite pleasant into Spring. Boasting one of the world’s greatest food scenes – vibrant markets, gloriously inexpensive street food, and a number of foodie festivals every year- this destination should be tops for any foodie newlywed couple. Rent a gorgeous Thai home, take cooking classes t0 perfect your som tum and sticky rice, and frequent the market stalls for arguably the best street food in Thailand.

Culture Lovers’ Honeymoon Destinations

My own dreamy image of Japan is temples surrounded by fluffy pink cherry blossoms, and I bet yours is too. Spring, of course, is the one and only time you can catch this natural explosion of pink blossoms. Stay in a zen friendly space in Kyoto, explore the town’s many temples and gardens, experience Japan’s culture and tantalizing cuisine, and see the city’s famous display of cherry blossoms.

Another bright and flowery destination rich with culture and history is The Netherlands. The yearly tulip festival spans from mid-March to the end of May, making it a very flexible journey. Visit Van Gogh’s museum in Amsterdam, traverse the many canals and rent a car to drive out of town through fields and fields of colorful tulips. Dreaming of visiting Holland’s many charming windmills? Why not stay in one?!

Photo by Greg Finck via Bridal Musings

All-Inclusive Honeymoon Destinations

Did wedding planning wear you out? Would you rather leave the honeymoon plans in the hands of the pros? Consider an all-inclusive style honeymoon where the only planning you have to do is the destination itself.

The Caribbean boasts beautiful weather in the Spring, with dry days and respite from cold weather in the North. Located on one of the most serene and beautiful beaches of the Dominican Republic (and perhaps even the Caribbean) is Sublime Samana. Far away from the heavily touristed resorts of Punta Cana, you’ll find refuge in your own villa just steps from the sea. With sweet breakfasts of local fruit and coconuts, and a beachside restaurant grilling up the fresh catch of the day on a nightly basis, you may never find a reason to wander off the luxury compound.

Photo via Be Tulum

Just south of Cancun is the now trending little eco-resort town, Tulum. Hip city folk are flocking to this ruin filled Mexican beach town, we predict Tulum may gain a nickname as the sixth borough soon (are you from Brooklyn? Have you been to Tulum? Thought so!) As the town rises in popularity amongst hipsters and luxury travelers alike, you’ll find all-inclusive style hotels less polished than their neighbors in Cancun – in a good way.

Be Tulum offers everything you could need from an all-inclusive resort – meals, drinks, private access to the beach – but doesn’t require you to buy into everything at once. Enjoy all the luxurious amenities the resort has to offer, and wander into town whenever you fancy trying the local gourmet fare.

Looking for more honeymoon inspiration? Visit our handy travel section!

[crossingcontinent-blog]

It’s interesting to learn about ourselves that we are more happy spending time in more remote places than being located in very touristy caravan parks with all the facilities. Being at caravan parks is necessary so now and then so we can wash our clothes, top up the water and wash ourselves with warm water. Also it’s nice for the children and ourselves to dip in the swimming pool. After a few days we desperately want to get back on the road again. What is it exactly with remote places what attract us? In the basic it’s about being surrounded by beautiful nature. Our camper trailer has still some “luxury” elements when staying on an unpowered location in the bush. We still have a running fridge (and freezer), we can use the stove to cook our meals and we can use the light (solar panels). So we can fully maintain ourselves for a week.

Ok, we don’t have a toilet and a shower. Worst case scenario we have to dig a whole when we need to do a big one but that’s something you just don’t think about while doing. When we decide to camp in the wild we fill up our tank with water, go to the store to stock up our food and fill up the tank with diesel. I’m not sure if I am (Heidi) that type of person who can camp in a tent in the wild and eating out of cans. I prefer a little bit of luxury. The nature gives us a very calm feeling. Camping in the wild makes you appreciate the simple things in live. We are not exposed to television, traffic, news or other “abstractions”. It’s so easy to live in the here and now.  You wake up with bird sounds and it’s nice to hear the sounds of leaves on the trees. In the morning we have breakfast outside while enjoying the rustic moments. I always enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the boys play. The boys can dig holes in the ground and play for hours with everything what’s there: leaves, sand, water, bones and sticks. Warroora Station is a very good place with no facilities however with the most stunning beaches in a secluded area. 

Warroora Station is located on the west coast. The area is bringing us nice weather (around 30c), white beaches, blue sea and a lot of underwater fish. Our camping spot is behind the dunes near the lagoon 30 min drive away from the main station and another hour from the first town (coral 20 houses). I really like the (semi) remoteness of the place we stay. In the night you only hear the waves, some birds and other night animals. During the day you can jump in the water for a swim and catch your fish for the evening meal. We are located between the dunes close to the old lagoon of the river that is dry. On top of the $11 a night you will get a million stars in the sky free of charge.

We already bought all the presents and cake in Carnarvon for Julien’s birthday. Within this beautiful surrounding we decided to celebrate his birthday a couple of days early. The evening before Heidi decorated the trailer will balloons. In the morning he waked up and was truly amazed of the transformation of the trailer. We had chocolate mud cake and Julien wanted to decorate the cake with marshmallows, glitters and other candy. So after breakfast Jens and Remco left to enjoy the beach. After an hour everything was ready for the birthday boy. Presents ready, cake prepared and Jens was ready to sing Happy Birthday.

Julien had a great time unpacking the presents and as always with boys it is the toys with the most noise that impressed the most. The stars wars mask and sword where his top presents.

He also got a mask and wetsuit to enjoy the (shark) waters around us. That afternoon we all got ready to take the dip in the sea. Heidi well prepared, Julien in his new suite both ready to go for a snorkel around the reef. When we reached the sea Heidi led Remco to jump in first with Julien to practice his snorkel skills. Both were playing around 50 meter from shore and where looking for fish.

Suddenly Heidi noticed a fin in the water not far away from the two boys. She shouted and Remco noticed that something was not right. He looked around and for a short moment he noticed also the fin out of the water near him. He looked below him however not able to see far underwater for the shark. He took Julien and swim as fast possible back to shore. Near the beach the waves where high and he had to wait a second to bring Julien and himself in safety. The wave came and both ended on the beach…

On the beach they were able to see the fin sticking out of the water again. Remco walked to a local fishermen and asked what that fin was. He responded “not a shark mate, a friendly manta ray cruising the coast. Yesterday my mate and I had a swim with them”.

Remco was already halfway the water again while Heidi was still catching her breath. She was only able to tell Remco that this time he could leave Julien on shore. Remco was swimming in the direction of the Manta Ray. The Manta Ray however was on his way out again. Remco and Julien survived the first day snorkelling.

The next couple of days the boys are spending most of the time in the water and Remco was bringing different fish back on the table. He starts to get the feeling of shooting the right fish and loves to search for crawfish (lobster). Only a shame that we did not have that opportunity for an evening meal.

Warroora Station was one of the most beautiful places we have seen so far. There are no facilities only beautiful white sandy beaches and clear water. But that’s all we need. We only stayed for four days but we could have stayed there for a few weeks.

Julien’s Birthday – Warroora station (Ningaloo reef) It’s interesting to learn about ourselves that we are more happy spending time in more remote places than being located in very touristy caravan parks with all the facilities.

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Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend Around Boston: The New Restaurant Edition

Pay a visit to these recently opened spots

Welcome back to Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, a weekly column in which the Eater Boston team recommends, well, five restaurants to try this weekend. Every Friday, we offer up a blend of old and new spots, typically including a mix of suggestions in Boston proper, Cambridge/Somerville, and farther afield. Sometimes there’s a topical theme; sometimes we just share our favorite standbys or the new places that are exciting us. Bookmark this page for updates; we add new recommendations to the top each week. Can’t hit ‘em all in one weekend? That’s what next weekend is for.

Want more recommendations from Eater staff and fellow readers? Join the Eater Boston Facebook group. Want to make sure your favorite hidden gem is on our radar? Send tips to us via email.

March 30, 2018: The New Restaurant Edition

If you’re not otherwise tied up with Easter or Passover celebrations this weekend, it may be a good time to score a reservation at one or two (or five) of the hot new dining destinations around town. This week’s Five Restaurants to Try are newish to very new and are quickly making names for themselves. From spicy seafood to fried chicken to sashimi, here are some recommendations for the weekend.

For beautiful ceviche and friendly hospitality: Celesteis tiny and adorable and wonderful. The Peruvian restaurant joined Union Square’s bustling dining scene earlier this month, serving up ceviche, lomo saltado (pictured above), and more, along with a nice selection of booze, with a focus on pisco and mezcal. Want to try it this weekend? Note that it’s closed Sundays but open until midnight on Saturdays, with an abbreviated late-night menu kicking in at 10 p.m. 21 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville

For a taste of Uruguay and beyond in a swanky old diner car: La Bodega— from the owners of Cambridge’sacclaimed Salts, which was forced to close in early 2014 due to a burst pipe — sort of quietly opened around Christmas with plans to slowly extend the menu and hours as time went on. It’s been building up momentum over the past few months, and regardless of whether it’s actually celebrated a “grand” opening yet, it’s already well worth a visit. It’s a unique, romantic space (be warned that it can get loud, especially in the diner car section, so don’t count on a very quiet evening.) Drink some wine; eat some steak and assorted small plates; be happy. 21 Nichols Ave., Watertown

For heavenly hushpuppies and hot chicken: And biscuits, too. Southern Proper really does smell like pine, as promised, and the attractive space is the perfect spot in which to gorge yourself on fried chicken — available in classic and hot styles; get the hot if you can handle a bit of a slow burn. Perhaps it’s a bit of a carb-heavy combo for one sitting, but the hushpuppies, biscuits, and chicken are all must-try items, so wear your stretchy pants and dig in.600 Harrison Ave., South End, Boston

For a fun, messy date night: Another newbie in the neighborhood is Bootleg Special, jumping into Boston’s growing Cajun seafood boil scene. Throw on the provided bib and gloves before diving into a big bowl of spicy seafood — choose from crawfish, lobster, shrimp, and more — and be sure to add something boozy on the side, such as a hurricane or daiquiri. 400 Tremont St., South End, Boston

For pretty plates of Japanese food with a touch of Hawai‘i, not to mention loads of sake: Momi Nonmiis the elder of this batch of recommendations, having opened back in October 2017, but we’ll allow it. Located in the former East by Northeast space (it was briefly a burger joint after that), Momi Nonmi serves up beautiful dishes of sashimi, tempura, and more. Splurge on the wagyu beef dumplings, don’t miss the duck confit rice dish, and try out the sizzling loco moco if you’ve got room left. Fan of sake and shochu? The staff will be eager to discuss options with you. 1128 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge

March 23, 2018: The Bao Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Squid ink oyster bao and pork belly bao at Pagu

Today’s theme is bao, simply because we’ve been eating them a lot lately and want to share a few recent favorites with you. Bao is a bit of an ambiguous word; it pops up on menus all over town to refer both to fully enclosed baozi (steamed or baked buns stuffed with various meats or other fillings) and to the wide world of variations on gua bao, or pork belly buns, which sort of resemble a fluffy taco or a sandwich where the bread’s connected on one side. Boston’s got both, but we’re just going to focus on the latter today — steamed bread folded around the traditional filling of pork belly or a range of other meats, sauces, and toppings.

For a meal that fuses Japanese food with Spanish and beyond: Now a little over a year old, Pagu is part of the increasingly awesome edge of Central Square by MIT, a short stretch of Massachusetts Avenue that includes Saloniki, A4cade, Naco Taco, Abide, and lots more. The pork belly bao, served with pickles, peanuts, and cilantro, is exceptional, and there’s another option as well — jet-black squid ink oyster bao, stuffed with panko oyster, “norioli” (nori aioli, naturally), and purple cabbage. Decidedly less traditional; equally worth trying. Also eat: jamón ibérico, Guchi’s midnight ramen, and cedar campfire black cod. 310 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

For a fun, boozy meal to a loud hip-hop soundtrack: You know it; you love it. Shojo is still going strong in Chinatown — and it’s now a big sibling to two nearby spots, BLR by Shojo and Ruckus. Order a cocktail and get the bulgogi beef bao (with marinated carrots and shinko pear gochujang), the Shojo pig bao (smoked barbecue sauce, kimchi, jalapeno), or the curry cauliflower bao (black bean mayo, onion rings, pea greens). Also eat: pork belly dumplings and shadowless fries. 9A Tyler St., Chinatown, Boston

For a Tiki hangover that is totally worth it: New downtown spot Tiki Rockis a blast. It’s colorful, it’s noisy, and it’s serving up a variety of Tiki drinks that’ll make you happy and pretty tipsy. The food menu focuses on sushi, but there are also some non-sushi entrees, skewers, and appetizers, including the pork belly bun. The pork has a chili maple soy glaze, and it’s served with uni mayo, lettuce, and nori seasoning. Also eat: coconut shrimp and winter squash dumplings, and how about a bowl of ramen at Oisa Ramen next door? 2 Broad St., Downtown Boston

For even more sushi and even more cocktails: Here’s another loud, energy-packed, sushi-packed, boozy option — Fat Baby in South Boston. There’s steak bao (skirt steak, hoisin, pickled Fresnos, bean sprouts) and chicken bao (Thai herbs, carrot, daikon, green chiles, hoisin, and “boom boom” aioli). The Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar sibling also has some solid cocktails. Also eat: the crispy rice cake snack with tuna, any of the crudo options, and the spicy tuna roll. 118 Dorchester St., South Boston

For bao that are not quite bao but eat them anyway: This is theleast bao-like option of the bunch, but Eventide Fenway’s acclaimed brown butter lobster roll and fried oyster bun are served on light, squishy bao-style buns. It’s an easy win for anyone who loves bao and seafood. Also eat: Maine lobster stew, the green salad, and brown butter soft serve. 1321 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

March 16, 2018: The Beard Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Harissa barbecue duck at Sarma

The James Beard awards — aka the “Oscars of the food world” — are coming up fast, and the nominee list was just announced earlier this week, including a handful of local folks. For the inaugural edition of Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, we’re featuring restaurants from Boston’s nominees.

For a truly lovely meal you probably won’t be able to eat this weekend because the restaurant’s basically booked up forever: Look, it’s probably too late to get reservations to Sarma for this weekend; sorry. Plan ahead for next weekend…or, like, a month from now. (Or walk in and put your name on the bar waitlist. Try showing up right at 5 p.m. on Sunday.) From Best Chef: Northeast nominee Cassie Piuma, Sarma — sibling to Oleana and Sofra (home to Outstanding Baker nominee Maura Kilpatrick) — serves up “an exhilarating survey of the herbaceous, sun-baked flavors of the Middle East,” according to Eater’s national critic Bill Addison, who named it to his 2016 list of the best restaurants in America. Highlights on the current menu include the Black Sea cornbread, venison wrapped dates, and harissa barbecue duck (pictured above). When ordering, save room for the specials that circulate the room like dim sum, especially the fried chicken. 249 Pearl St., Winter Hill, Somerville

For a dim sum brunch: Sarma’s got its dim sum-like trays of specials; Myers + Chang has dim sum brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. — you’ve got plenty of time to sleep in. The self-proclaimed “indie diner,” a longtime South End staple, serves a “very personal interpretation of Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese specialties,” which includes brunch necessities like Mama Chang’s pork and chive dumplings; grilled corn with Sriracha butter; tea smoked ribs; wild boar dan dan noodles (“hotterest” on the restaurant’s spicy scale); and lots more. Executive chef and partner Karen Akunowicz is a nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. 1145 Washington St., South End, Boston

For a mai tai-soaked brunch: Let’s say you make it to Myers + Chang for Saturday brunch. Why not hit up Tiger Mamafor Sunday brunch (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), from Best Chef: Northeast nominee Tiffani Faison? There’s everything from Fruity Pebbles doughnuts to a bacon and cheddar-stuffed waffle that comes with Thai chili butter and maple-glazed bacon, not to mention a rotating selection of enticing cocktails. Past Sundays have featured mai tais; a bloody mary that included tamari, sambal, and wasabi; and more. 1363 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

For a baller sushi feast: Go nuts at Uni, and don’t even worry about thinking — there are a number of omakase options that leave it all in the hands of the chef, spanning from a 10-piece nigiri omakase ($58) up to $185 for an epic tasting of the restaurant’s immaculate sushi. There are plenty of other ways to drop some major cash here as well, from a whole tray of Maine uni for DIY hand rolls ($65) to beluga hybrid caviar ($375). While sushi’s the focus, there are some don’t-miss hot dishes as well. Our pick: the Korean rice cakes with kalbi oxtail, kimchi butter, and gremolata. Chefs and partners Ken Oringer and Tony Messina are both up for Beards — Oringer for Outstanding Restaurateur and Messina for Best Chef: Northeast. 370 Commonwealth Ave., the Eliot Hotel, Back Bay, Boston

For the weirdest “I can’t believe this menu actually works” menu: Oringer is also behind, among other spots, Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square, which he co-owns with Jamie Bissonnette. (The two of them recently debuted a ready-made food crawl that brings diners to Toro, Coppa, and Little Donkey in a row, with transportation included in the price.) When the duo opened Little Donkey in 2016 — one of the top newcomers of the year — they spoke about how they’re tied to certain themes at their other restaurants, but Little Donkey is a place to break the rules and cook whatever they want. That means that matzo ball ramen co-exists with an extensive raw bar selection, duck nachos, seriously spicy Jamaican jerk chicken wings, and lots more. It shouldn’t work. It does. Don’t miss the manti (Istanbul meat ravioli), poke, or Parker House rolls. 505 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

[tonyduncanbb73]

Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend Around Boston: The New Restaurant Edition

Pay a visit to these recently opened spots

Welcome back to Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, a weekly column in which the Eater Boston team recommends, well, five restaurants to try this weekend. Every Friday, we offer up a blend of old and new spots, typically including a mix of suggestions in Boston proper, Cambridge/Somerville, and farther afield. Sometimes there’s a topical theme; sometimes we just share our favorite standbys or the new places that are exciting us. Bookmark this page for updates; we add new recommendations to the top each week. Can’t hit ‘em all in one weekend? That’s what next weekend is for.

Want more recommendations from Eater staff and fellow readers? Join the Eater Boston Facebook group. Want to make sure your favorite hidden gem is on our radar? Send tips to us via email.

March 30, 2018: The New Restaurant Edition

If you’re not otherwise tied up with Easter or Passover celebrations this weekend, it may be a good time to score a reservation at one or two (or five) of the hot new dining destinations around town. This week’s Five Restaurants to Try are newish to very new and are quickly making names for themselves. From spicy seafood to fried chicken to sashimi, here are some recommendations for the weekend.

For beautiful ceviche and friendly hospitality: Celesteis tiny and adorable and wonderful. The Peruvian restaurant joined Union Square’s bustling dining scene earlier this month, serving up ceviche, lomo saltado (pictured above), and more, along with a nice selection of booze, with a focus on pisco and mezcal. Want to try it this weekend? Note that it’s closed Sundays but open until midnight on Saturdays, with an abbreviated late-night menu kicking in at 10 p.m. 21 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville

For a taste of Uruguay and beyond in a swanky old diner car: La Bodega— from the owners of Cambridge’sacclaimed Salts, which was forced to close in early 2014 due to a burst pipe — sort of quietly opened around Christmas with plans to slowly extend the menu and hours as time went on. It’s been building up momentum over the past few months, and regardless of whether it’s actually celebrated a “grand” opening yet, it’s already well worth a visit. It’s a unique, romantic space (be warned that it can get loud, especially in the diner car section, so don’t count on a very quiet evening.) Drink some wine; eat some steak and assorted small plates; be happy. 21 Nichols Ave., Watertown

For heavenly hushpuppies and hot chicken: And biscuits, too. Southern Proper really does smell like pine, as promised, and the attractive space is the perfect spot in which to gorge yourself on fried chicken — available in classic and hot styles; get the hot if you can handle a bit of a slow burn. Perhaps it’s a bit of a carb-heavy combo for one sitting, but the hushpuppies, biscuits, and chicken are all must-try items, so wear your stretchy pants and dig in.600 Harrison Ave., South End, Boston

For a fun, messy date night: Another newbie in the neighborhood is Bootleg Special, jumping into Boston’s growing Cajun seafood boil scene. Throw on the provided bib and gloves before diving into a big bowl of spicy seafood — choose from crawfish, lobster, shrimp, and more — and be sure to add something boozy on the side, such as a hurricane or daiquiri. 400 Tremont St., South End, Boston

For pretty plates of Japanese food with a touch of Hawai‘i, not to mention loads of sake: Momi Nonmiis the elder of this batch of recommendations, having opened back in October 2017, but we’ll allow it. Located in the former East by Northeast space (it was briefly a burger joint after that), Momi Nonmi serves up beautiful dishes of sashimi, tempura, and more. Splurge on the wagyu beef dumplings, don’t miss the duck confit rice dish, and try out the sizzling loco moco if you’ve got room left. Fan of sake and shochu? The staff will be eager to discuss options with you. 1128 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge

March 23, 2018: The Bao Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Squid ink oyster bao and pork belly bao at Pagu

Today’s theme is bao, simply because we’ve been eating them a lot lately and want to share a few recent favorites with you. Bao is a bit of an ambiguous word; it pops up on menus all over town to refer both to fully enclosed baozi (steamed or baked buns stuffed with various meats or other fillings) and to the wide world of variations on gua bao, or pork belly buns, which sort of resemble a fluffy taco or a sandwich where the bread’s connected on one side. Boston’s got both, but we’re just going to focus on the latter today — steamed bread folded around the traditional filling of pork belly or a range of other meats, sauces, and toppings.

For a meal that fuses Japanese food with Spanish and beyond: Now a little over a year old, Pagu is part of the increasingly awesome edge of Central Square by MIT, a short stretch of Massachusetts Avenue that includes Saloniki, A4cade, Naco Taco, Abide, and lots more. The pork belly bao, served with pickles, peanuts, and cilantro, is exceptional, and there’s another option as well — jet-black squid ink oyster bao, stuffed with panko oyster, “norioli” (nori aioli, naturally), and purple cabbage. Decidedly less traditional; equally worth trying. Also eat: jamón ibérico, Guchi’s midnight ramen, and cedar campfire black cod. 310 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

For a fun, boozy meal to a loud hip-hop soundtrack: You know it; you love it. Shojo is still going strong in Chinatown — and it’s now a big sibling to two nearby spots, BLR by Shojo and Ruckus. Order a cocktail and get the bulgogi beef bao (with marinated carrots and shinko pear gochujang), the Shojo pig bao (smoked barbecue sauce, kimchi, jalapeno), or the curry cauliflower bao (black bean mayo, onion rings, pea greens). Also eat: pork belly dumplings and shadowless fries. 9A Tyler St., Chinatown, Boston

For a Tiki hangover that is totally worth it: New downtown spot Tiki Rockis a blast. It’s colorful, it’s noisy, and it’s serving up a variety of Tiki drinks that’ll make you happy and pretty tipsy. The food menu focuses on sushi, but there are also some non-sushi entrees, skewers, and appetizers, including the pork belly bun. The pork has a chili maple soy glaze, and it’s served with uni mayo, lettuce, and nori seasoning. Also eat: coconut shrimp and winter squash dumplings, and how about a bowl of ramen at Oisa Ramen next door? 2 Broad St., Downtown Boston

For even more sushi and even more cocktails: Here’s another loud, energy-packed, sushi-packed, boozy option — Fat Baby in South Boston. There’s steak bao (skirt steak, hoisin, pickled Fresnos, bean sprouts) and chicken bao (Thai herbs, carrot, daikon, green chiles, hoisin, and “boom boom” aioli). The Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar sibling also has some solid cocktails. Also eat: the crispy rice cake snack with tuna, any of the crudo options, and the spicy tuna roll. 118 Dorchester St., South Boston

For bao that are not quite bao but eat them anyway: This is theleast bao-like option of the bunch, but Eventide Fenway’s acclaimed brown butter lobster roll and fried oyster bun are served on light, squishy bao-style buns. It’s an easy win for anyone who loves bao and seafood. Also eat: Maine lobster stew, the green salad, and brown butter soft serve. 1321 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

March 16, 2018: The Beard Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Harissa barbecue duck at Sarma

The James Beard awards — aka the “Oscars of the food world” — are coming up fast, and the nominee list was just announced earlier this week, including a handful of local folks. For the inaugural edition of Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, we’re featuring restaurants from Boston’s nominees.

For a truly lovely meal you probably won’t be able to eat this weekend because the restaurant’s basically booked up forever: Look, it’s probably too late to get reservations to Sarma for this weekend; sorry. Plan ahead for next weekend…or, like, a month from now. (Or walk in and put your name on the bar waitlist. Try showing up right at 5 p.m. on Sunday.) From Best Chef: Northeast nominee Cassie Piuma, Sarma — sibling to Oleana and Sofra (home to Outstanding Baker nominee Maura Kilpatrick) — serves up “an exhilarating survey of the herbaceous, sun-baked flavors of the Middle East,” according to Eater’s national critic Bill Addison, who named it to his 2016 list of the best restaurants in America. Highlights on the current menu include the Black Sea cornbread, venison wrapped dates, and harissa barbecue duck (pictured above). When ordering, save room for the specials that circulate the room like dim sum, especially the fried chicken. 249 Pearl St., Winter Hill, Somerville

For a dim sum brunch: Sarma’s got its dim sum-like trays of specials; Myers + Chang has dim sum brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. — you’ve got plenty of time to sleep in. The self-proclaimed “indie diner,” a longtime South End staple, serves a “very personal interpretation of Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese specialties,” which includes brunch necessities like Mama Chang’s pork and chive dumplings; grilled corn with Sriracha butter; tea smoked ribs; wild boar dan dan noodles (“hotterest” on the restaurant’s spicy scale); and lots more. Executive chef and partner Karen Akunowicz is a nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. 1145 Washington St., South End, Boston

For a mai tai-soaked brunch: Let’s say you make it to Myers + Chang for Saturday brunch. Why not hit up Tiger Mamafor Sunday brunch (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), from Best Chef: Northeast nominee Tiffani Faison? There’s everything from Fruity Pebbles doughnuts to a bacon and cheddar-stuffed waffle that comes with Thai chili butter and maple-glazed bacon, not to mention a rotating selection of enticing cocktails. Past Sundays have featured mai tais; a bloody mary that included tamari, sambal, and wasabi; and more. 1363 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

For a baller sushi feast: Go nuts at Uni, and don’t even worry about thinking — there are a number of omakase options that leave it all in the hands of the chef, spanning from a 10-piece nigiri omakase ($58) up to $185 for an epic tasting of the restaurant’s immaculate sushi. There are plenty of other ways to drop some major cash here as well, from a whole tray of Maine uni for DIY hand rolls ($65) to beluga hybrid caviar ($375). While sushi’s the focus, there are some don’t-miss hot dishes as well. Our pick: the Korean rice cakes with kalbi oxtail, kimchi butter, and gremolata. Chefs and partners Ken Oringer and Tony Messina are both up for Beards — Oringer for Outstanding Restaurateur and Messina for Best Chef: Northeast. 370 Commonwealth Ave., the Eliot Hotel, Back Bay, Boston

For the weirdest “I can’t believe this menu actually works” menu: Oringer is also behind, among other spots, Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square, which he co-owns with Jamie Bissonnette. (The two of them recently debuted a ready-made food crawl that brings diners to Toro, Coppa, and Little Donkey in a row, with transportation included in the price.) When the duo opened Little Donkey in 2016 — one of the top newcomers of the year — they spoke about how they’re tied to certain themes at their other restaurants, but Little Donkey is a place to break the rules and cook whatever they want. That means that matzo ball ramen co-exists with an extensive raw bar selection, duck nachos, seriously spicy Jamaican jerk chicken wings, and lots more. It shouldn’t work. It does. Don’t miss the manti (Istanbul meat ravioli), poke, or Parker House rolls. 505 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

[tonyduncanbb73]

Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend Around Boston: The New Restaurant Edition

Pay a visit to these recently opened spots

Welcome back to Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, a weekly column in which the Eater Boston team recommends, well, five restaurants to try this weekend. Every Friday, we offer up a blend of old and new spots, typically including a mix of suggestions in Boston proper, Cambridge/Somerville, and farther afield. Sometimes there’s a topical theme; sometimes we just share our favorite standbys or the new places that are exciting us. Bookmark this page for updates; we add new recommendations to the top each week. Can’t hit ‘em all in one weekend? That’s what next weekend is for.

Want more recommendations from Eater staff and fellow readers? Join the Eater Boston Facebook group. Want to make sure your favorite hidden gem is on our radar? Send tips to us via email.

March 30, 2018: The New Restaurant Edition

If you’re not otherwise tied up with Easter or Passover celebrations this weekend, it may be a good time to score a reservation at one or two (or five) of the hot new dining destinations around town. This week’s Five Restaurants to Try are newish to very new and are quickly making names for themselves. From spicy seafood to fried chicken to sashimi, here are some recommendations for the weekend.

For beautiful ceviche and friendly hospitality: Celesteis tiny and adorable and wonderful. The Peruvian restaurant joined Union Square’s bustling dining scene earlier this month, serving up ceviche, lomo saltado (pictured above), and more, along with a nice selection of booze, with a focus on pisco and mezcal. Want to try it this weekend? Note that it’s closed Sundays but open until midnight on Saturdays, with an abbreviated late-night menu kicking in at 10 p.m. 21 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville

For a taste of Uruguay and beyond in a swanky old diner car: La Bodega— from the owners of Cambridge’sacclaimed Salts, which was forced to close in early 2014 due to a burst pipe — sort of quietly opened around Christmas with plans to slowly extend the menu and hours as time went on. It’s been building up momentum over the past few months, and regardless of whether it’s actually celebrated a “grand” opening yet, it’s already well worth a visit. It’s a unique, romantic space (be warned that it can get loud, especially in the diner car section, so don’t count on a very quiet evening.) Drink some wine; eat some steak and assorted small plates; be happy. 21 Nichols Ave., Watertown

For heavenly hushpuppies and hot chicken: And biscuits, too. Southern Proper really does smell like pine, as promised, and the attractive space is the perfect spot in which to gorge yourself on fried chicken — available in classic and hot styles; get the hot if you can handle a bit of a slow burn. Perhaps it’s a bit of a carb-heavy combo for one sitting, but the hushpuppies, biscuits, and chicken are all must-try items, so wear your stretchy pants and dig in.600 Harrison Ave., South End, Boston

For a fun, messy date night: Another newbie in the neighborhood is Bootleg Special, jumping into Boston’s growing Cajun seafood boil scene. Throw on the provided bib and gloves before diving into a big bowl of spicy seafood — choose from crawfish, lobster, shrimp, and more — and be sure to add something boozy on the side, such as a hurricane or daiquiri. 400 Tremont St., South End, Boston

For pretty plates of Japanese food with a touch of Hawai‘i, not to mention loads of sake: Momi Nonmiis the elder of this batch of recommendations, having opened back in October 2017, but we’ll allow it. Located in the former East by Northeast space (it was briefly a burger joint after that), Momi Nonmi serves up beautiful dishes of sashimi, tempura, and more. Splurge on the wagyu beef dumplings, don’t miss the duck confit rice dish, and try out the sizzling loco moco if you’ve got room left. Fan of sake and shochu? The staff will be eager to discuss options with you. 1128 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge

March 23, 2018: The Bao Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Squid ink oyster bao and pork belly bao at Pagu

Today’s theme is bao, simply because we’ve been eating them a lot lately and want to share a few recent favorites with you. Bao is a bit of an ambiguous word; it pops up on menus all over town to refer both to fully enclosed baozi (steamed or baked buns stuffed with various meats or other fillings) and to the wide world of variations on gua bao, or pork belly buns, which sort of resemble a fluffy taco or a sandwich where the bread’s connected on one side. Boston’s got both, but we’re just going to focus on the latter today — steamed bread folded around the traditional filling of pork belly or a range of other meats, sauces, and toppings.

For a meal that fuses Japanese food with Spanish and beyond: Now a little over a year old, Pagu is part of the increasingly awesome edge of Central Square by MIT, a short stretch of Massachusetts Avenue that includes Saloniki, A4cade, Naco Taco, Abide, and lots more. The pork belly bao, served with pickles, peanuts, and cilantro, is exceptional, and there’s another option as well — jet-black squid ink oyster bao, stuffed with panko oyster, “norioli” (nori aioli, naturally), and purple cabbage. Decidedly less traditional; equally worth trying. Also eat: jamón ibérico, Guchi’s midnight ramen, and cedar campfire black cod. 310 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

For a fun, boozy meal to a loud hip-hop soundtrack: You know it; you love it. Shojo is still going strong in Chinatown — and it’s now a big sibling to two nearby spots, BLR by Shojo and Ruckus. Order a cocktail and get the bulgogi beef bao (with marinated carrots and shinko pear gochujang), the Shojo pig bao (smoked barbecue sauce, kimchi, jalapeno), or the curry cauliflower bao (black bean mayo, onion rings, pea greens). Also eat: pork belly dumplings and shadowless fries. 9A Tyler St., Chinatown, Boston

For a Tiki hangover that is totally worth it: New downtown spot Tiki Rockis a blast. It’s colorful, it’s noisy, and it’s serving up a variety of Tiki drinks that’ll make you happy and pretty tipsy. The food menu focuses on sushi, but there are also some non-sushi entrees, skewers, and appetizers, including the pork belly bun. The pork has a chili maple soy glaze, and it’s served with uni mayo, lettuce, and nori seasoning. Also eat: coconut shrimp and winter squash dumplings, and how about a bowl of ramen at Oisa Ramen next door? 2 Broad St., Downtown Boston

For even more sushi and even more cocktails: Here’s another loud, energy-packed, sushi-packed, boozy option — Fat Baby in South Boston. There’s steak bao (skirt steak, hoisin, pickled Fresnos, bean sprouts) and chicken bao (Thai herbs, carrot, daikon, green chiles, hoisin, and “boom boom” aioli). The Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar sibling also has some solid cocktails. Also eat: the crispy rice cake snack with tuna, any of the crudo options, and the spicy tuna roll. 118 Dorchester St., South Boston

For bao that are not quite bao but eat them anyway: This is theleast bao-like option of the bunch, but Eventide Fenway’s acclaimed brown butter lobster roll and fried oyster bun are served on light, squishy bao-style buns. It’s an easy win for anyone who loves bao and seafood. Also eat: Maine lobster stew, the green salad, and brown butter soft serve. 1321 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

March 16, 2018: The Beard Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Harissa barbecue duck at Sarma

The James Beard awards — aka the “Oscars of the food world” — are coming up fast, and the nominee list was just announced earlier this week, including a handful of local folks. For the inaugural edition of Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, we’re featuring restaurants from Boston’s nominees.

For a truly lovely meal you probably won’t be able to eat this weekend because the restaurant’s basically booked up forever: Look, it’s probably too late to get reservations to Sarma for this weekend; sorry. Plan ahead for next weekend…or, like, a month from now. (Or walk in and put your name on the bar waitlist. Try showing up right at 5 p.m. on Sunday.) From Best Chef: Northeast nominee Cassie Piuma, Sarma — sibling to Oleana and Sofra (home to Outstanding Baker nominee Maura Kilpatrick) — serves up “an exhilarating survey of the herbaceous, sun-baked flavors of the Middle East,” according to Eater’s national critic Bill Addison, who named it to his 2016 list of the best restaurants in America. Highlights on the current menu include the Black Sea cornbread, venison wrapped dates, and harissa barbecue duck (pictured above). When ordering, save room for the specials that circulate the room like dim sum, especially the fried chicken. 249 Pearl St., Winter Hill, Somerville

For a dim sum brunch: Sarma’s got its dim sum-like trays of specials; Myers + Chang has dim sum brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. — you’ve got plenty of time to sleep in. The self-proclaimed “indie diner,” a longtime South End staple, serves a “very personal interpretation of Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese specialties,” which includes brunch necessities like Mama Chang’s pork and chive dumplings; grilled corn with Sriracha butter; tea smoked ribs; wild boar dan dan noodles (“hotterest” on the restaurant’s spicy scale); and lots more. Executive chef and partner Karen Akunowicz is a nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. 1145 Washington St., South End, Boston

For a mai tai-soaked brunch: Let’s say you make it to Myers + Chang for Saturday brunch. Why not hit up Tiger Mamafor Sunday brunch (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), from Best Chef: Northeast nominee Tiffani Faison? There’s everything from Fruity Pebbles doughnuts to a bacon and cheddar-stuffed waffle that comes with Thai chili butter and maple-glazed bacon, not to mention a rotating selection of enticing cocktails. Past Sundays have featured mai tais; a bloody mary that included tamari, sambal, and wasabi; and more. 1363 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

For a baller sushi feast: Go nuts at Uni, and don’t even worry about thinking — there are a number of omakase options that leave it all in the hands of the chef, spanning from a 10-piece nigiri omakase ($58) up to $185 for an epic tasting of the restaurant’s immaculate sushi. There are plenty of other ways to drop some major cash here as well, from a whole tray of Maine uni for DIY hand rolls ($65) to beluga hybrid caviar ($375). While sushi’s the focus, there are some don’t-miss hot dishes as well. Our pick: the Korean rice cakes with kalbi oxtail, kimchi butter, and gremolata. Chefs and partners Ken Oringer and Tony Messina are both up for Beards — Oringer for Outstanding Restaurateur and Messina for Best Chef: Northeast. 370 Commonwealth Ave., the Eliot Hotel, Back Bay, Boston

For the weirdest “I can’t believe this menu actually works” menu: Oringer is also behind, among other spots, Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square, which he co-owns with Jamie Bissonnette. (The two of them recently debuted a ready-made food crawl that brings diners to Toro, Coppa, and Little Donkey in a row, with transportation included in the price.) When the duo opened Little Donkey in 2016 — one of the top newcomers of the year — they spoke about how they’re tied to certain themes at their other restaurants, but Little Donkey is a place to break the rules and cook whatever they want. That means that matzo ball ramen co-exists with an extensive raw bar selection, duck nachos, seriously spicy Jamaican jerk chicken wings, and lots more. It shouldn’t work. It does. Don’t miss the manti (Istanbul meat ravioli), poke, or Parker House rolls. 505 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

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Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend Around Boston: The New Restaurant Edition

Pay a visit to these recently opened spots

Welcome back to Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, a weekly column in which the Eater Boston team recommends, well, five restaurants to try this weekend. Every Friday, we offer up a blend of old and new spots, typically including a mix of suggestions in Boston proper, Cambridge/Somerville, and farther afield. Sometimes there’s a topical theme; sometimes we just share our favorite standbys or the new places that are exciting us. Bookmark this page for updates; we add new recommendations to the top each week. Can’t hit ‘em all in one weekend? That’s what next weekend is for.

Want more recommendations from Eater staff and fellow readers? Join the Eater Boston Facebook group. Want to make sure your favorite hidden gem is on our radar? Send tips to us via email.

March 30, 2018: The New Restaurant Edition

If you’re not otherwise tied up with Easter or Passover celebrations this weekend, it may be a good time to score a reservation at one or two (or five) of the hot new dining destinations around town. This week’s Five Restaurants to Try are newish to very new and are quickly making names for themselves. From spicy seafood to fried chicken to sashimi, here are some recommendations for the weekend.

For beautiful ceviche and friendly hospitality: Celesteis tiny and adorable and wonderful. The Peruvian restaurant joined Union Square’s bustling dining scene earlier this month, serving up ceviche, lomo saltado (pictured above), and more, along with a nice selection of booze, with a focus on pisco and mezcal. Want to try it this weekend? Note that it’s closed Sundays but open until midnight on Saturdays, with an abbreviated late-night menu kicking in at 10 p.m. 21 Bow St., Union Square, Somerville

For a taste of Uruguay and beyond in a swanky old diner car: La Bodega— from the owners of Cambridge’sacclaimed Salts, which was forced to close in early 2014 due to a burst pipe — sort of quietly opened around Christmas with plans to slowly extend the menu and hours as time went on. It’s been building up momentum over the past few months, and regardless of whether it’s actually celebrated a “grand” opening yet, it’s already well worth a visit. It’s a unique, romantic space (be warned that it can get loud, especially in the diner car section, so don’t count on a very quiet evening.) Drink some wine; eat some steak and assorted small plates; be happy. 21 Nichols Ave., Watertown

For heavenly hushpuppies and hot chicken: And biscuits, too. Southern Proper really does smell like pine, as promised, and the attractive space is the perfect spot in which to gorge yourself on fried chicken — available in classic and hot styles; get the hot if you can handle a bit of a slow burn. Perhaps it’s a bit of a carb-heavy combo for one sitting, but the hushpuppies, biscuits, and chicken are all must-try items, so wear your stretchy pants and dig in.600 Harrison Ave., South End, Boston

For a fun, messy date night: Another newbie in the neighborhood is Bootleg Special, jumping into Boston’s growing Cajun seafood boil scene. Throw on the provided bib and gloves before diving into a big bowl of spicy seafood — choose from crawfish, lobster, shrimp, and more — and be sure to add something boozy on the side, such as a hurricane or daiquiri. 400 Tremont St., South End, Boston

For pretty plates of Japanese food with a touch of Hawai‘i, not to mention loads of sake: Momi Nonmiis the elder of this batch of recommendations, having opened back in October 2017, but we’ll allow it. Located in the former East by Northeast space (it was briefly a burger joint after that), Momi Nonmi serves up beautiful dishes of sashimi, tempura, and more. Splurge on the wagyu beef dumplings, don’t miss the duck confit rice dish, and try out the sizzling loco moco if you’ve got room left. Fan of sake and shochu? The staff will be eager to discuss options with you. 1128 Cambridge St., Inman Square, Cambridge

March 23, 2018: The Bao Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Squid ink oyster bao and pork belly bao at Pagu

Today’s theme is bao, simply because we’ve been eating them a lot lately and want to share a few recent favorites with you. Bao is a bit of an ambiguous word; it pops up on menus all over town to refer both to fully enclosed baozi (steamed or baked buns stuffed with various meats or other fillings) and to the wide world of variations on gua bao, or pork belly buns, which sort of resemble a fluffy taco or a sandwich where the bread’s connected on one side. Boston’s got both, but we’re just going to focus on the latter today — steamed bread folded around the traditional filling of pork belly or a range of other meats, sauces, and toppings.

For a meal that fuses Japanese food with Spanish and beyond: Now a little over a year old, Pagu is part of the increasingly awesome edge of Central Square by MIT, a short stretch of Massachusetts Avenue that includes Saloniki, A4cade, Naco Taco, Abide, and lots more. The pork belly bao, served with pickles, peanuts, and cilantro, is exceptional, and there’s another option as well — jet-black squid ink oyster bao, stuffed with panko oyster, “norioli” (nori aioli, naturally), and purple cabbage. Decidedly less traditional; equally worth trying. Also eat: jamón ibérico, Guchi’s midnight ramen, and cedar campfire black cod. 310 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge

For a fun, boozy meal to a loud hip-hop soundtrack: You know it; you love it. Shojo is still going strong in Chinatown — and it’s now a big sibling to two nearby spots, BLR by Shojo and Ruckus. Order a cocktail and get the bulgogi beef bao (with marinated carrots and shinko pear gochujang), the Shojo pig bao (smoked barbecue sauce, kimchi, jalapeno), or the curry cauliflower bao (black bean mayo, onion rings, pea greens). Also eat: pork belly dumplings and shadowless fries. 9A Tyler St., Chinatown, Boston

For a Tiki hangover that is totally worth it: New downtown spot Tiki Rockis a blast. It’s colorful, it’s noisy, and it’s serving up a variety of Tiki drinks that’ll make you happy and pretty tipsy. The food menu focuses on sushi, but there are also some non-sushi entrees, skewers, and appetizers, including the pork belly bun. The pork has a chili maple soy glaze, and it’s served with uni mayo, lettuce, and nori seasoning. Also eat: coconut shrimp and winter squash dumplings, and how about a bowl of ramen at Oisa Ramen next door? 2 Broad St., Downtown Boston

For even more sushi and even more cocktails: Here’s another loud, energy-packed, sushi-packed, boozy option — Fat Baby in South Boston. There’s steak bao (skirt steak, hoisin, pickled Fresnos, bean sprouts) and chicken bao (Thai herbs, carrot, daikon, green chiles, hoisin, and “boom boom” aioli). The Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar sibling also has some solid cocktails. Also eat: the crispy rice cake snack with tuna, any of the crudo options, and the spicy tuna roll. 118 Dorchester St., South Boston

For bao that are not quite bao but eat them anyway: This is theleast bao-like option of the bunch, but Eventide Fenway’s acclaimed brown butter lobster roll and fried oyster bun are served on light, squishy bao-style buns. It’s an easy win for anyone who loves bao and seafood. Also eat: Maine lobster stew, the green salad, and brown butter soft serve. 1321 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

March 16, 2018: The Beard Edition

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Harissa barbecue duck at Sarma

The James Beard awards — aka the “Oscars of the food world” — are coming up fast, and the nominee list was just announced earlier this week, including a handful of local folks. For the inaugural edition of Five Restaurants to Try This Weekend, we’re featuring restaurants from Boston’s nominees.

For a truly lovely meal you probably won’t be able to eat this weekend because the restaurant’s basically booked up forever: Look, it’s probably too late to get reservations to Sarma for this weekend; sorry. Plan ahead for next weekend…or, like, a month from now. (Or walk in and put your name on the bar waitlist. Try showing up right at 5 p.m. on Sunday.) From Best Chef: Northeast nominee Cassie Piuma, Sarma — sibling to Oleana and Sofra (home to Outstanding Baker nominee Maura Kilpatrick) — serves up “an exhilarating survey of the herbaceous, sun-baked flavors of the Middle East,” according to Eater’s national critic Bill Addison, who named it to his 2016 list of the best restaurants in America. Highlights on the current menu include the Black Sea cornbread, venison wrapped dates, and harissa barbecue duck (pictured above). When ordering, save room for the specials that circulate the room like dim sum, especially the fried chicken. 249 Pearl St., Winter Hill, Somerville

For a dim sum brunch: Sarma’s got its dim sum-like trays of specials; Myers + Chang has dim sum brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. — you’ve got plenty of time to sleep in. The self-proclaimed “indie diner,” a longtime South End staple, serves a “very personal interpretation of Chinese, Taiwanese, Thai, and Vietnamese specialties,” which includes brunch necessities like Mama Chang’s pork and chive dumplings; grilled corn with Sriracha butter; tea smoked ribs; wild boar dan dan noodles (“hotterest” on the restaurant’s spicy scale); and lots more. Executive chef and partner Karen Akunowicz is a nominee for Best Chef: Northeast. 1145 Washington St., South End, Boston

For a mai tai-soaked brunch: Let’s say you make it to Myers + Chang for Saturday brunch. Why not hit up Tiger Mamafor Sunday brunch (11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.), from Best Chef: Northeast nominee Tiffani Faison? There’s everything from Fruity Pebbles doughnuts to a bacon and cheddar-stuffed waffle that comes with Thai chili butter and maple-glazed bacon, not to mention a rotating selection of enticing cocktails. Past Sundays have featured mai tais; a bloody mary that included tamari, sambal, and wasabi; and more. 1363 Boylston St., Fenway, Boston

For a baller sushi feast: Go nuts at Uni, and don’t even worry about thinking — there are a number of omakase options that leave it all in the hands of the chef, spanning from a 10-piece nigiri omakase ($58) up to $185 for an epic tasting of the restaurant’s immaculate sushi. There are plenty of other ways to drop some major cash here as well, from a whole tray of Maine uni for DIY hand rolls ($65) to beluga hybrid caviar ($375). While sushi’s the focus, there are some don’t-miss hot dishes as well. Our pick: the Korean rice cakes with kalbi oxtail, kimchi butter, and gremolata. Chefs and partners Ken Oringer and Tony Messina are both up for Beards — Oringer for Outstanding Restaurateur and Messina for Best Chef: Northeast. 370 Commonwealth Ave., the Eliot Hotel, Back Bay, Boston

For the weirdest “I can’t believe this menu actually works” menu: Oringer is also behind, among other spots, Little Donkey in Cambridge’s Central Square, which he co-owns with Jamie Bissonnette. (The two of them recently debuted a ready-made food crawl that brings diners to Toro, Coppa, and Little Donkey in a row, with transportation included in the price.) When the duo opened Little Donkey in 2016 — one of the top newcomers of the year — they spoke about how they’re tied to certain themes at their other restaurants, but Little Donkey is a place to break the rules and cook whatever they want. That means that matzo ball ramen co-exists with an extensive raw bar selection, duck nachos, seriously spicy Jamaican jerk chicken wings, and lots more. It shouldn’t work. It does. Don’t miss the manti (Istanbul meat ravioli), poke, or Parker House rolls. 505 Massachusetts Ave., Central Square, Cambridge