South End Buttery

314 Shawmut Ave 617-482-1015

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

Looc

12 Union Park St 617-357-5333

Chockful of hard-to-find brands, the bright shop has a well-edited collection of super-chic finds. Take time to spy into the jewelry case for baubles that are truly irresistible. Ask owner Audra Boyle for tips on the best way to accessorize (she’s the master).

Photo: Courtesy of Looc

Hudson

12 Union Park St 617-292-0900

Whether you’re looking to furnish and accessorize your entire house, or you just want to find one fabulous piece, Hudson has what you’re after. From Oly and Jacqui furnishings to Lanai picture frames, Nautilus pillows, and vintage finds, it’s a one-stop home shop.

Photo: Courtesy of Hudson

Formaggio Kitchen

244 Huron Ave 617-354-4750

A mecca for unique gourmet items, stock your basket with imported Italian jams, house-made pastrami, and artisanal cheeses from every corner of the world (Belgium, Spain, France, Italy). If you don’t want to do the cooking yourself, Formaggio caters and offers take-out meals.

Photo: Getty Images

Stella

1525 Washington St 617-247-7747

Stella slings some of the neighborhood’s only authentic Italian food. Seasonal specialties like rock shrimp with zucchini blossom and summer squash. And there’s the veritable slew of alfresco tables facing the adjacent park, enough to create a serious outdoor dining scene on the block — and to hold packs of hungry South Enders. 

Photo: Courtesy of Stella