Dining in Back Bay

Located in a historic brownstone in fashionable Back Bay, L'Espalier is one of Boston's premier "special occasion" restaurants. The intimate and sophisticated atmosphere complements the culinary service and delivery of exceptional and innovative modern French cuisine. Three-course prix fixe or seven-course degustation (chef's choice) menus change seasonally. In addition to a standard meat and fish menu, there are caviar and vegetarian degustation menus.

Next door to the Harvard Club in the Eliot Hotel, Clio is another "must stop" for those who appreciate unusual and creative cuisine. Chef Ken Oringer creates a menu of remarkable French dishes with a strong Asian influence. The menu changes often, and these are only a few of the gastronomic possibilities: cassolette of lobster and sea urchin, Jerusalem artichoke soup, slow-cooked wild Alaskan king salmon and phenomenal pastries.

Chic, upbeat decor sets the tone for Meritage, a new concept in dining. Here, the wine is chosen first--with food to match. Arranged by characteristics of wine suitable for pairing, the seasonally changing menu lists small starter-sized portions or large plates. Typical dishes include rack of lamb, braised pork cheeks, ostrich fan filet, quail, duck, rabbit and fresh seafood. Presentations are truly artistic. A knowledgeable staff provides attentive, unobtrusive service.

The historic institution of Locke-Ober is now under the accomplished and capable hands of Lydia Shire, who has managed to maintain the "Old World" charm and delight her guests with both contemporary and classic cuisine. The menu reflects a traditional steakhouse with creative flair: Black Angus filet mignon with béarnaise sauce; sirloin steak au poivre; wiener schnitzel; swordfish with crisp calamari, artichokes and saffron aïoli. Steeped in history, the restaurant opened in the 1880s and generally excluded women. In fact, female diners were only allowed to enter during morning hours, a policy still in effect well into the 20th century. Thankfully, times have changed, but the décor is preserved, offering a glimpse of another era along with a taste of incredible cuisine.

Jasper White's Summer Shack sets out to create the atmosphere of a New England clambake, and it succeeds. This lively restaurant, with locations in Back Bay and Cambridge, looks like a rustic clubhouse--a big, open space with picnic tables, paneled walls and lights strung from the ceiling. Diners get to experience not only the feel of a Yankee feast but the fare as well. Steamers, lobsters and corn on the cob will appeal to any landlubber.