Get lost poking through the gourmet condiments (olive oil, chutney, seasoned salt) or press your nose against the massive cheese case. The amazingly friendly staff will help you snack your way through fromage selections or pour you a sip of sweet balsamic vinegar from one of the massive casks.
At Townsend’s, a contemporary American spot, the belief is that the food should match in caliber to beer and wine (amen to that). To wit: a huge international selection of the bubbly soda that makes you feel good (if you can’t pick, get the four-glass sampler) and fare like mussels, shepherd’s pie, and pork steak with sweet pea risotto to go with.
The shop has been a Beacon Hill staple for decades, stocking everything from Harbor Sweets Candies and Chocolates to Ann Marie Murray’s hand-painted porcelain. Prepare to spend some time walking the tight aisles.
Count on cavities after you get a load of the thrilling oatmeal Craisin cookies, cheesecakes, fresh-made napoleans, and cupcakes filled with lush berry creams. And the pooch cakes will even give Fido sweet dreams.
Catch a glimpse of the goods from sweets master Jörg Amsler, patisserie owner and former private pastry chef to the stars. On display for admiration — boxes of edible Boston landmarks, masterful tarts, and platters of pastry sushi.
The eatery’s award-winning Neapolitan pies have thin crusts and slightly sweet, chunky sauce. Go basic with a mouthwatering margherita, try a house specialty like the Uncommon (bacon, pineapple, and jalapeno), or create your own masterpiece!
The parlor doesn’t take the everything-but-the-kitchen-sink approach, but rather stuff of a higher plane — simple but deep flavored. Taste just-churned bites of black raspberry, tangy peach, sweet ginger, and coconut (to name but a few).
The cute little cupcake spot offers flavors like lemon topped with candied lemon ties, organic karat (that’s carrot) garnished with edible gold, and cappuccino crowned with cinnamon.
The chocolatier stocks the cure for what ails you. Fix your worries with luxe artisan truffles like the Astrid, dark chocolate with an almond paste and orange cream center, caramel sushi rolled with white marshmallow, or Oreos dipped in white chocolate.
Pick up a creamy cappuccino and crumbly country biscuit to go, or take a seat at dinnertime and indulge in fresh gazpacho and pan-roasted halibut. The mellow spot provides wireless Internet access so feel free to sit back and relax.
Photo: Courtesy of South End Buttery