To paraphrase Laurie Anderson, talking about Marjorie is like dancing about architecture. Words just don’t do the trick. It’s not just how great the food is. The owner Marjorie sets a tone that is casual, friendly, hip and totally unpretentious. And then the food. I’ve eaten there a number of times, and if I must provide an adjective, it is: sublime.

I went to Matt’s a few times when it was four tables and a bunsen burner. I’ve heard that it has expanded a bit recently, but the idea is the same. Perfect, simple food. The menu is short and based on what’s fresh. This is a great place to go if you really love great food, but don’t give a crap about all of the other foo-fa-ra of high end restaurants. Matt’s is not cheap, but for what you get its a bargain.

If pizza is like sex, then I’m glad I’ve never experienced the carnal equivalent of Serious Pie. Once you’ve tried it, no other pizza will satisfy you.

I had the roasted mushroom and truffle cheese pie once, and now I can’t order anything else.

I’ve had some great meals at Palace Kitchen, but it is also a good place to saddle up to the bar and snack on some tasty food while you share pints with a friend. Palace Kitchen is always bustling, and a good place to go to wind up for a big night out, or wind down at the end.

Great beer, great staff, great food. Sitting outside and quaffing a bitter in the afternoon sun is like, well, the Elysian Fields.