When the pandemic started, we started getting a lot of takeout for lunch. Because we are not the heroes that the East Cambridge economy deserves, just the ones it needs right now. So we tried a lot of local restaurants. Though it may not look like much, Skampa is by far the best, and we can't stop going back. Noah suggests the Super Beef, 3-Way Style (don't be afraid of the mayo. add bacon and hots if you're ready to have the best sandwich of your life). İpek's favorite is the Grilled Greek Chicken Warp - add pickles, extra lettuce, no onions
Chef Ana Sortun is İpek's favorite chef in the world. And Ana Sortun specializes in Turkish food. Need we say more?
We're putting this here to send positive messages to the universe
One of the most enduring memories of 2020 will be the virtual events that we've participated in with Lamplighter. We go to the brewery to collect beer, and often food to pair, then enjoy hour-long discussion events about the beer. They rotate their beers often, and we recommend trying a handful of whatever is available, because they're always fun and delicious. But if "Bourbon Wolves" is available you will absolutely regret not getting some.
This is our favorite place to spend a nice day! Get a picnic blanket or a lawn chair, grab the book you've been meaning to put some time in on, and enjoy the sunshine! Bonus points if you bring your ball and glove to throw around.
A great place to go for a run, but it also holds the famous "Old Ironsides" U.S.S. Constitution, which is the world's oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat. Other World-War-II-era ships are at the yard and are open for tour in good times.
Site of the second-or-third-most famous battle in the Revolutionary War (depending on how you feel about how much Trenton deserves its mystique), this is another great park for spending the day. We highly recommend climbing to the top of the monument - although perhaps not on the Fourth of July, as we did, unless you plan on changing shirts later. There's a museum nearby that includes more information about the famous battle.
Wonderful rooftop bar, delicious burritos, amazing (and strong) margaritas.
We haven't actually been on site much (thanks a lot, COVID) but we've befriended Chef Gilman and his food through the virtual events that Brato participates in with Lamplighter.
Our favorite diner in the Boston area. There's usually a line out the door, but the food is delicious and worth the wait!
Nearby our apartment, this is the bakery co-founded by our wedding day chef, Will Gilson. İpek is Cafe Beatrice's #1 customer.
Freddie's favorite shop! Best selection of treats and chews for the doggos.