Boston - December 19, 2005

Joys ’n the Hood

Columbus Cafe & Bar

Admittedly, there are major inconveniences that come with living in a charming city neighborhood. Lack of cabinet space, for one. Overpriced groceries from corner convenience stores, for another.

But these are generally offset by the benefits: quirky boutiques, elegant architecture, welcoming bistros and cafes.

So when the Claremont Cafe closed earlier this year, upper Columbus-area South Enders were dealt a nigh-tragic blow.

Until, that is, the Columbus Cafe & Bar opened in its place. Serving an affordable menu (dinner entrees all under fifteen bucks) of homey dishes (salads, pastas, crab cakes), the cafe is a cozy spot for whiling away an afternoon (lunch is served Monday through Friday, brunch on Saturdays and Sundays) or an evening. The adjacent bar beckons passersby to stop and grab a drink or three on their way home.

Which is a much more appealing option than stopping at the corner convenience store for overpriced groceries.

You really don’t have room for those, anyway.

Columbus Cafe & Bar, 535 Columbus Avenue, at Claremont Park (617-247-9001).