This bustling spot on Washington Street serves up everything from classic breakfast meals such as French toast, to sandwiches and salads. Crab mac-and-cheese and a conch po’boy are some of the more unusual offerings. And if you just want a sweet treat, there’s plenty to choose from at the tempting display case.

Everything from wooden utensils to dinner plates can be found at Birch Home & Garden. Look for the funky vintage garden furniture and tools mixed in with new products. The offerings are constantly changing, so the store is never the same place twice.

The Arnold Arboretum is the oldest public arboretum in North America and one of the world’s leading centers for the study of plants. It’s also a link in Boston’s Emerald Necklace of parks, and a fantastic place to walk, bike, skate and just enjoy the outdoors (no picnicking, though!).

Fornax was one the first businesses to reignite Roslindale’s business district when it was in decline and locals have repaid it with their loyalty, for good reason. At any given time there are a variety of breads -- we’re partial to the garlic twist -- plus cookies, scones, sandwiches, soups and salads. Enjoy coffee or a meal at one of the mismatch... Moreed Formica tables, which feels like sitting in a favorite aunt’s toasty, good-smelling kitchen.Less

With dozens cheeses on offer from around the world, it’s an excruciatingly delicious process to pick out what you want. No doubt, you’ll have to sample at least a few before you settle on something. In addition to cheese, the store sells marmalades, dips, pastas and other goodies to stock the larder. If visiting around lunchtime, order a “Ploughman... More’s Lunch.” It includes the cheese of the day, bread, relish and fruit.Less

You never know what you’ll find at Joanne Rossman Design, where the artist/owner calls herself a “purveyor of the unnecessary and the irresistible.” The eclectic offerings at her shop range from a variety of Buddhas to hand made slippers (by Rossman) to Kanthas (saris turned into gorgeous blankets) to unusual jewelry. The ever-revolving stock is ne... Morever the same and it’s almost impossible to leave the store empty-handed.Less

This boutique wine shop is pretty as a picture and the proprietress and her staff remember their customers’ likes and dislikes. If you come in just once, you can be assured that next time you’ll be greeted like an old friend. With a focus on smaller vineyards and less well-known wineries, it is easy to discover a new favorite, especially with the s... Moremart suggestions and guidance always offered.Less

Tucked in an alley off Birch Street, Sophia’s Grotto feels like a secret discovery. The cozy Italian restaurant serves up classic antipasto and risotto, but the spicy mussels in a tomato fennel stew are to die for. In warm weather, sit outside under twinkling lights with a glass of sangria and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported far from Bosto... Moren to a piazza in Florence. The restaurant is open for dinner every night and lunch and brunch on the weekends.Less