Massachusetts – Camera & Carry On

Jaws, Is That You? Photo on the Map: Cape Cod, MA

Shannon — Mon, 20 Jul 2015 18:54:44 +0000

There's something eerily alluring about weekending in a place that openly advertises its shark-infested waters. Souvenir shops abound with half eaten baseball hats and tee-shirts. And then there's the local news headlines like Great White Spotted Just Feet From Shore. Did I mention "Shark Week" is filmed here? Jaws fans flock to Cape Cod's beaches in search of a thrill, and some for respite from hot & sticky summer days in the city of Boston. It's like skydiving, or week old leftovers - a little flirt with danger to get the blood pumping. Sharks like that.

I mostly spent the day with my head in a book, but from time to time would gaze beyond the pages of my novel to the beach goers below; a touch of anxiety in my heartbeat. Happy-go-lucky teenagers bounced around on a tube pulled by a 20 foot motorboat, kids made sandcastles, and seagulls circled in the sky. Just checking. Choppy waters and laughter tend to make a swell setting for a horror film plot to unfold. [Da nun. Dan nun...]

Alas, no dramatic sequence ensued. THAT would've made for quite the vacation memory. Instead I lolled around sand dunes fit for a Nicholas Sparks romance, soaked up a tad too much sunshine (they call me 50 shades of Shannon now), and relaxed more than I deserved. The Cape is the Northeast's answer to NYC's Hamptons, where the wealthy wasps spend the warm months, and families visit for the day to get their lobster roll fix and splash in the deep blue. Have you been to Cape Cod? Or more exciting still, had a brush with white death? [Muwahahaha]

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My Unicorn: In Search of the Perfect Swimsuit

Shannon — Wed, 20 May 2015 16:56:51 +0000

Farewell, Hello, Yippee!

Goodbye, Old Friends

With my dreamy trip to St. Croix and the summer season just around the corner, I knew it was time to evaluate my swimsuit situation. I opened my top dresser drawer to reveal some uninspired intimates (a challenge for another occasion, I assure you) and two worn, weathered bikinis, bundled tightly in the corner. Sad things. They had seen better days, but sun, sand, and salt water had done them in. I laid them on the bed for better inspection: frays, loose seams, one cup missing a liner... for shame! Wondering how these survived as long as they did, I let out a weak sigh and faced the music. It was time to find a new swimsuit and say farewell to the oldies, like this one (pictured below) that has been with me for 5+ years!

Moving On

Oh, the dread. I've never met a woman that enjoys swimsuit shopping. Even the sveltest, fittest, most confident ladies know the challenge of finding the one, let alone an option that will work. But you gotta do what you gotta do, and a swimsuit will not find itself. Reluctantly, I put on my big girl pants and set out in search of the unicorn (aka the mythical "perfect swimsuit"). I generally shop online (free shipping, baby!) because the whole routine of sorting through endless racks of clothes, waiting for 20 minutes to try them on, then ultimately leaving empty handed is not my favorite past time. This time though I didn't feel like waiting a week to see/feel/try different styles and prints - I wanted to try them in person - and shopping local is always a plus.

Finding the Unicorn

Forty Winks was just the ticket! A hop, skip and a jump away, I was at the lingerie boutique lickety-split, eager to find my new swimsuit. I did a little pre shopping online and loved what I saw on the website, so I had a feeling what I'd find in their brick & mortar. Warmly welcomed by co-owner Rachel, she took me under her wing and made me feel at ease immediately. Then, we set to work! After browsing the styles, a few changes in the dressing room, and honest feedback (so crucial!) from the Forty Winks gals, my decision was easy. In my mind I had already made my selection, but their synchronized nods made it official. I left there with a gorgeous swimsuit, pep in my step, and feel-good vibes. I had found my unicorn and an attitude I'd be taking with me to the Caribbean.

How to Find the Perfect Swimsuit

If you're in same boat, fret not my dear, bikini-needy friends. Intimates expert Rachel, was happy to divulge her tried and true tips, advice, and words of inspiration when it comes to shopping for swimwear. Whether you're surfing the web or visiting your local swim shop, use this guide to help you on your quest to find the right one for you.

Before You Go

Know your budget, size (roughly), best colors, and what you feel comfortable in. Ask yourself a few key questions, and be honest with your answers. Having clear expectations about what you want and can manage will make the whole process a LOT easier. Why go into a store with $300 swimsuits if your max is $50? And having a good sense of your body, what you feel happy wearing (maybe bikinis are too much skin for you), your focus will narrow and make the selection process simpler.

What size, how are you going to be wearing it, what colors do you think looks good on your skin tone, and what cuts you're comfortable (or not comfortable) with. ~ Rachel

Where Will You Wear It?

Consider the function of your swimsuit. Are you going to be hanging ten off the Costa Rican coast, or sipping Mojitos poolside in Miami? If you're the active girl, you'll want a suit that stays put like a one piece, monokini, or a suit with structure. A tiny triangle top and Brazilian cut bottom may not be the way to go. Similarly, if you're looking to work on your tan and don't want funky/splotchy tan lines, look at where the fabric is covering and decide if you want less of it between you and the sun.

A tight bandeau top with detachable strings offers security while you're swimming while the detachable strings can be easily removed for tanning purposes. ~ Rachel

Show It Off or Play It Down

There are tons of style choices, but no one-style-fits-all for everybody. With so many cuts, colors, and prints out there, the sky is the limit! Plus it means you can emphasize your favorite bits and camouflage your lesser ones. Ruffles, texture, and details create a focal point, so use those in areas you wish to bring attention to. Darker colors generally make shapes look smaller. But don't make the mistake of assuming more coverage = slimming, especially for the derriere, ladies.

Try lots [of styles] and don't assume that more coverage is more flattering. Sometimes a lower cut or cheeky bottom works better than a full coverage style. ~ Rachel

Classic or Trendy?

Why not have it both ways? Depending on your piggy bank, you might be able to swing one from each category. Consider your purchasing history, how often you'll wear the suit, and if you see it as an investment. Some suits when properly cared for can last years and years. If you're in the market for a season-filler, think big brands at discount prices.

If you don't want to buy them a lot or spend a lot on them, buy something classic that you'll wear a ton and that you can mix and match with cheaper separates. ~ Rachel

Be Supportive

You want it to work with you, not against you. Well endowed ladies will want reliable support when it comes to picking a top. Some bandeau styles have removable straps for life and easily convert to tan friendly (best of both worlds!). Halters are also a good bet. Gals with less to manage have a little more freedom to explore.

Just like bras, I think everyone needs a little something different. Some people can wear anything, but most of us need something that flatters OUR particular body. ~ Rachel

But Most of All...

A swimsuit should reflect your personality, and make you feel comfortable in your skin. Have confidence when you put on that new swimsuit. Sexy is such a personal thing, but I think we all want to have a little extra oomph when we take off the layers and parade around in our near-birthday attire. Are you loving all things retro? Try a high waisted bottom. Surfer girl at heart? Try bright, tropical colors. But whatever you choose, make sure you feel good in it.

When you're baring skin you want to feel confident and a well fitting suit gives you that extra moxie on the beach. Don't hate your body - period. And avoid fluorescent lighting. ~ Rachel

•••••

A big thanks to Forty Winks for sponsoring this post. Visit their boutique in Cambridge, MA or their online shop here. As always, all opinions, text, and images are my own. See our ethics page for more information. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make life a little better here at Camera & Carry On.

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Packing Q&A: Travel Essentials + Oddities

Shannon — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 15:07:06 +0000

A little over two weeks ago, I attended my very first travel/blogger/women/awesomeness event right here in Boston. I'm not sure how I found out about the Women in Travel Summit (WITS15) to begin with - insignificant detail - but I met the basic profile (female, travel nut, writer optional), did a happy wiggle when I saw the location, selected "1" and clicked "purchase." Ready to amp up my game, make connections, soak up expert knowledge, and rub elbows with some famed names in the community put a sparkle in my eye. The doors opened to reveal 300 extra-strength doses of estrogen (slightly overwhelming!), but once we were given the green light to mingle, the feeling was nothing short of positive, supportive, and enthusiastic. Hallelujah! So many personalities, so many perspectives, so many adventures and places explored! Questions. I must ask questions! I wanted to know more: where they were going, where they'd been, how/why they travel... and yes, the luggage! Bags are sacred spaces, and packing for travel is such a personal thing. I wanted to know how these travelistas tackled the challenge. No doubt thanks to my natural charm and wit, several ladies agreed to answer my inquiries and overwhelmed me with responses. Some insightful, some quirky, and some I could totally relate to. Secrets revealed, here are the essentials and oddities in my traveling friends' bags!

What are your travel essentials - anything you can't leave home without?

Bag ladies, unite! I'm a fan of them, big and small, because you never know when you might need one.

Of course my new We Travel Far carrying case. Also, you would find a plastic bag, holding more plastic bags. I am a freak about making sure my 3oz liquids do not spill on anything! I once had shampoo explode and coat everything in my bag… so, I now double bag my liquids and pack extras to re-pack in fresh bags at the end of the trip. I call it "genius!" Tiffany Moorhead, We Travel Far

Little bags. Everything I travel with is packed into smaller bags so that I can just grab and go. For example, I throw all of my adapters, chargers and cords into a zipper pouch that goes in my backpack. OTCs, bandaids go into another. My clothes get squashed down into a compression bag and shoes with dirty bottoms slide into old TWA pillowcases I scored when the airline was absorbed. I'm never frantically searching for anything and I can be on the move quickly. I like stuff from Flight 001, LeSportSac and eBay. Juliana Dever, Clever Dever Wherever

When I'm traveling for a longer amount of time but only want to bring a carry-on, I've started organizing by using jumbo sized clear ziplock bags! It allows me to rummage through my bag and grab something specific without making a complete mess of everything else. I organize them by type of clothing; such as one for sweaters, one for pants, one for shirts, etc. I've also found that if I need to do laundry in the sink, they serve a double purpose! Sara Weiskotten

Cameras and electronics keep these gals on point and ready to capture the moment.

My travel essentials are iPhone and portable charger, quality camera - sometimes I shoot film with a twin lens. Also, a toothbrush, hair ties, Oil of Olay face cloths, baby wipes and broken-in shoes. Depending on local, I often bring a hammock, too. Crystal Martin, Midlife Break

I always have way too many electronics (iPhone, point and shoot camera, SLR camera, laptop, iPad, sometimes my underwater camera - the life of a travel blogger!), a water bottle to refill at the airport, granola bars, neck pillow, and warm cardigan/sweater/hoodie. Andrea Marlowe, Andrea on Vacation

In addition to the basics (travel docs, currency, dslr, etc.), this pensive traveler brings something from within.

Passport/ID, travel documents, credit card/cash in the correct currency, laptop, and always my cameras (compact, DSLR + lens options, and depending on the place, my GoPro)… Most importantly, remembering a smile, open mind, and patience. Alyssa Setia, AlyssaSetia.com

Armed with tools of the trade to get busy whenever the creative mood strikes.

I'm a journalist by trade, so it's a force of habit to never leave the house without a notebook and pen. You can't guarantee that your phone or iPad will have enough power to record that conversation with a city local, or type up those notes about that cafe with the amazing coffee, so having an old-school back-up is always a good idea. Katie MacLeod, Stories My Suitcase Could Tell

I never leave home without a travel journal, and the few supplies that go with it (a glue stuck, waterbrush, pencil & pens). Beyond that, lip gloss, individually wrapped hand wipes, tissues and a scarf. Kristin Crane, KristinCrane.com

Gotta keep the lips smoochable!

To be honest, there's really only one thing: Burt's Bees chapstick. I can live without absolutely anything else....just not my Burt's Bees! Kristin Winet, Bon Touriste

Small cross-body purse (I downsize from my regular purse when I travel - this one is so much lighter) and Chapstick; always, always, always need the Chapstick. I would lose my mind without it. And last fall I bought a great hard case, Samsonite spinner carry-on (at TJ MAXX for way cheap) and it's like a dream come true. It's super maneuverable and I love it, but during my round the world trip I will probably opt for a backpack. Rachel Sasser, Trailing Rachel

If I took a peek in your bag, what odd thing would I find?

This gal keeps a healthy snack handy at all times, even if it's a touch risque.

An avocado. I'm a vehemently healthy eater (local, organic, grass-fed everything), and it's hard to fill up when I'm traveling for long stretches of time. I'd rather eat nothing than eat plane food. My body runs really well on healthy fats, and if I have an avocado I can put it on anything: salads, sprouted bread, veggie sticks, even eat it alone with a little bit of sea salt. Once when I was younger and experimenting with being raw vegan, I would sneak avocados into restaurants when they didn't offer them. I'm a rebelle like that. Amy Segreti, Live All of You

It seems stitch and hook hobbies are popular! Two globe trotters claim to keep their supplies in easy reach!

My cross-stitch supplies. It seems weird to bring sewing on the road, but it's such a great and satisfying activity on long plane flight. Stephanie Yoder, Twenty-Something Travel

Probably my crochet hook. Last summer when I was abroad, I wanted to make a gift for someone, but I didn't have my crochet supplies, so now I always carry one around with me just in case I have a "crochet emergency!" Alana Simpson, Adventure Spices

The awards for most unexpected and whimsical goodies go to...

The rainbow tutu, bunny ears and bow ties are a must. Literally they take up about 1/6th of my space and I'm 100% ok with that! I also travel with a lacrosse ball; it helps with sore muscles after carrying my bag for a long period of time. I use it to massage my shoulder muscles normally. Adrian Hollingsworth, Adrian's Travel Tales

Because I pack light, I mostly pack the expected necessities — not much out of the ordinary in my bag! Although lately I've been a bit of a diva and putting slippers in my purse to change into during flights. I feel really fussy doing it, but it makes such a difference during long flights, especially overnight ones. Theresa Christine, Tremendous Times

And some other oddities that keep these travelers smiling and moving.

You might be surprised to find two liquid glitter eyeliners by Urban Decay: Midnight Cowboy (gold) and ACDC (purple). I'm really into makeup and these definitely aren't your typical items -- but they look great on everyone and add a little bit of pizzazz to any night out. I lend them to my girlfriends all the time. Kate McCulley, Adventurous Kate

A tiny 3D printed truck that the bf made. Just a funny keepsake. Becca Barnett, BringFido.com

Miscellaneous gift cards my husband has received from parents for being a soccer coach (Starbucks, Chili's, Olive Garden, Dunkin' Donuts, etc.). You never know when you're going to be out, whether traveling or in town, and could use one since they all have multiple locations across the country. Erin Gifford, Kidventurous

These days, travels rely on digital photographs more than ever, but I still carry printed photos of my family. Passing my pictures around is one way I can connect to every culture as we share the people most important to us and remember we have something in common. Becky Pokora, The Girl and Globe

So many, many thanks to the amazing women that were gracious enough to answer my silly questions. I'm huge fans of theirs, and if you don't follow/read their work yet, you absolutely must! Do you have any oddities in your bag? Or what things can you not travel without?

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A Local’s Food Guide to Boston’s South End

Shannon — Tue, 24 Mar 2015 01:30:32 +0000

The South End is one of those neighborhoods only locals seems to know about. To the visitors of this great city, consider this your private invitation to step beyond the invisible tourist fence and frolic in my 'hood. It's a bit off the Freedom trail, so don't expect to find another souvenir tee or Paul Revere impersonator. But if it's palate satisfaction you seek, this is the place to be, with thigh-smackingly good wings, heavenly sweets, fresh off the press sandwiches, and a pre-Prohibition era watering hole, brought to the hungry masses by kickass chefs and delivered with wicked awesome service. Here are my top picks for where to get your foodie fix in Boston's South End. And don't forget to tell them Shannon from C&C sent you!

Click the icons to jump!

Tremont 647

While it may not be the shiny new penny, Tremont 647 sure has the new kids on the block watching their backs. Holding down the corner of Tremont and Brookline for 19 years now with casual confidence, it takes something special to not only remain, but thrive. My hat goes off to the cuisine, prepared by a rock star, female-driven kitchen staff, attentive servers, and all around good vibe. The driving force behind it all is executive chef/owner, Andy Husbands, with a vision and passion for food that just won't quit. We had the pleasure of dining by the open kitchen with Andy as expediter that night, punctuating unidentifiable kitchen code with laughter and wit, as he divulged a bit of his philosophy with us. At his core, a desire to make really good food that hits the spot and makes you beg for more. "One bite should lead to another," defines his quest as a chef and creator. He'll put his burger against any restaurant patty out there (Do I smell a challenge?), and has crushed it in the world of BBQ in his spare time (rib pun... sorry). From apps to dessert, we gave our thumbs up, but it's really the whole package that garners this place a round of applause. I think I might just become a regular.

Favorites: Wings, Beef Dumplings, Confit Chicken, and Bacon Bark • Insider Tip: Small plates are great for sharing, and even a few of the mains comes in half portions, for the smorgasbord route • Go: They do a fun pajama brunch (pjs encouraged!) on the weekend and Taco Tuesdays are a lively night • www.tremont647.com

Blunch

At just 400 square feet, this unassuming sandwich shop is more than meets the eye. No frills and little seating, some of Boston's best meals between two slices of bread come from behind the counter of owner Nikki's pint-sized brick and mortar. "The best part of a good meal is the sandwich you make from the leftovers," she says, and that's exactly the concept behind what's happening at Blunch. Part breakfast, part lunch, this sandwicherie has been slicing and pressing crowd pleasing sammies for years with a strong local following. Not only do they kill it with thoughtful, developed flavor combos that pack a punch, every sandwich is pressed (aka awesome). And where some cafes claim it's all about the bread, Nikki takes the opposing view, saying they tried "fancy" at one point, but it's the simple goodness of local baker Quinzani's bread that takes to the heat best and lets the insides shine. There you have it: sandwich perfection. One last thing? Do yourself a favor and bring home one of the in-house baked goods. You won't regret it.

Favorite: The Colonial (it's all in the preserves!) or the "Whim" of the Day • Insider Tip: They've been catering to the gluten free community for years, with special prep and ingredients to ensure there's no cross contamination (a big plus for anyone with a real allergy). And, YES, Blunch has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives • Go: Breakfast or lunch (either all day!) • www.eatblunch.com

Blackbird Doughnuts

Doughnut. Is there no word sweeter in the English language? This craveable treat, loved by old and young, is brought to new heights by Blackbird Doughnuts. Self-proclaimed "Boston's finest gourmet doughnut," I found no reason to doubt the bold claim. While you ponder over risen vs. cake, peek through the massive window to the kitchen and you'll see these guys know a thing or two about making carbs as good as they can be. Open for just a few months, Blackbird has quickly advanced to neighborhood staple status. With a kaleidoscope of ever-changing flavors, from classics like vanilla glaze and chocolate cake, to showstoppers Irish coffee, salted toffee, and buffalo frito (yeah, I said it), there's no chance for taste bud boredom. What crazy flavor comes next? I don't have the answer, but I leave it to these dough mavens to dazzle us with their next made from scratch daily creation.

Favorites: Pineapple Habanero and Pepperoni Pizza (Oh, yeah) • Insider Tip: Grab a coffee to go with those doughnuts. Sourced from JP's Fazenda, Blackbird has their own, special blend. And ask your Pizza doughnut to be warmed • Go: Before they run out! • www.blackbirddoughnuts.com

Orinoco Kitchen

I opened the door to Orinoco and was instantly met with sultry, slow-cooked scents that enveloped and ushered me into a Venezuelan frenzy. Like a hungry pup to the dinner bell, my mouth began to water and I longed to know the taste of what my nose insisted I try. And try, I did. Amidst colorful decor and photos from owner Andres' family from Valencia, the food took on my hunger with mighty force. How I wished it was a warm, sunny day and not a wintry mess. I pictured myself in a sundress, bathing in the golden light on the patio with my zesty caipirinja in one hand and an empanada in the other. Instead, I cozied into the booth and drowned my cold weather blues with a few more almond/bacon dates and second helping of chicken adobo, because good food makes everything better.

Favorite: Empanada trio with [crack?] sauce (seriously, I have no idea what's in it but I wanted to put that stuff on everything) and the Mojito Cojito (the tropics in a glass) • Insider Tip: Come thirsty and ready for a good night, because the drinks are stiff and sassy • Go: While the prix fix is offered, or when the warmth comes to stay a while • www.orinocokitchen.com

Appleton Bakery & Cafe

Bright and sunny, in looks and disposition, Appleton is lovely for take away, but begs you to come in and stay a while. Cozy cafe tables are bathed in natural daylight, making for an ideal spot to enjoy a lunch break, meet up with a friend, or read a book and savor a sweet snack. A melange of healthy breakfast and lunch options catering to the veggie lover as much as the must-have-meat eater are handwritten on the chalkboard menu. Freshly baked goods line the display case instigating a little indulgence, because, why not? Warm and friendly smiling faces greet a mixed bag of patrons, from grandma with her smallest grand baby, to the handsome novelist typing away, to the bricklayers working on the house down the street; this is a neighborhood affair. To wrap it all in a bow, the staff are just the sweetest, lightening even the dullest of moods. And if you ask me, that's all it takes to turn a good place into a great one.

Favorites: Latte of the Day and Apple Pie Cheesecake Bar • Insider Tip: Check in for menu updates reflecting the change in season, and specials daily • Go: Pancakes anytime (score!), and the waffle maker comes out on the weekend • www.appletoncafe.com

The Elephant Walk

With my infatuation for Southeast Asian cuisine, it's a wonder Cambodian is foreign to me. At least it was until The Elephant Walk. With flavors bolder than Chinese but less aggressive than Thai, I thank Nadsa, sweet chef and master of the kitchen, for making my first time a memorable and eye-opening one. In the swanky dining room, I sipped a glass of wine and took my time perusing the selection. The menu is extensive and varied, boasting an impressive French-with-a-twist selection, but it's the other of the spectrum that hooked me. Crisp spring rolls, a colorful julienne salad, caramelized beef tenderloin... We dined on a spread fit for a king, taking a note from the traditional style where many plates make a well rounded meal. A range of taste, color, contrast and vibrancy that can only be described as uniquely Cambodian, consider me a fan.

Favorites: An out of this world pork/coconut dish called Keing M'Noa and tuna spring rolls • Insider Tip: Portions are a good size, but a sampling of plates gives your mouth the rainbow treatment • Go: Break up the weeknight routine for a casual affair with zing • www.elephantwalk.com

Cafe Madeleine

It's all about the butter at Cafe Madeleine. Take their croissant, for instance. As one might expect from a pretty, French bakery, they certainly look the part, but the taste, the experience, that's where the magic happens. One flaky mouthful in and the heartbreaking melody of La Vie En Rose fills my ear, a suave gent with a smirk and a cigarette walks past, and fireworks pop in the silhouette of the Eiffel Tower. Paris, is that you? 84% butterfat is where it's at. The desserts are no exception in the hands of world renowned pastry chef, Frederic Robert, as he and his skilled pastry chefs gives the American classic an elegant, French makeover. Silken, smooth, and creamy beyond belief, thanks to a sousvide style method, shortbread crust, and (you guessed it) the most decadent dairy spread Vermont has to offer. The concept of a neighborhood bakery, where anyone can pop in for a good croissant and cup of coffee, is a humble one wherein results far exceed ambitions. I found the answer to the age old mystery of why ladies of France stay so svelte; there's not need to overindulge when you're so fully satiated. But just in case, there's always the expertly caramelized canele to fill that last bit of real estate.

Favorites: Plain croissant and Canele • Insider Tip: Make sure to pick up the fresh fruit puree to balance the rich butter flavor of the cheesecake • Go: Pick up dessert for your Friday Night Soiree and a signature baked goodie to nibble on for the walk home • www.cafemadeleineboston.com

J.J. Foley's

If walls could talk, they'd speak of family ties, change, the importance of tradition, and how regardless of the here and now, a good pint never goes out of style. Not just another Irish tap house, this has been a local landmark for over 100 years and favored pub of famed personalities and unknown alike. Pony up for a glass of Guinness and plate of bacon and cabbage or shepherd's pie, fit for sharing, because here you're among friends. A family affair, the business has been ushered down the generations, carried with modest pride and strong sense of heritage. The feeling at the bar is as familiar as stepping into an old pub in Ireland: warn, wooden decor, bartenders that double as confidantes, and a genuine, convivial spirit. It's a timeless nod to yesteryear and holds down the foundation of Boston beneath an ever evolving landscape.

Favorites: Curry Chips and a proper pint of Cider • Insider Tip: The wall art reflects the rich history and events over the last hundred years, with J.J.'s at the heart of it; fodder for deep conversation over equally deep glasses of the dark stuff. • Go: After work drinks and a taste of what you'd get from the Emerald Isle • www.jjfoleyscafe.com

Cinquecento

Conceived as a spot where anyone can stop in for a nice meal wherever they're going or coming from, I have to say, this far exceeded my expectations. Cinquecento is more than just another restaurant group restaurant. Or "Italian joint." The food here is delicious, period. As for the servers, not only are they knowledgeable about what goes into the cuisine and how it's prepared, they are willing to take the time to make sure your experience is as good as it can be; a mark of quality and longevity. Cinquecento is newish to the South End, with 2 years under its belt and no sign of slowing down. The space is very uncommon for the area: huge, open, modern-meets-rustic, Roman trattoria vibe, and yet maintains a sense of intimacy. It's got class, panache, and a pretty killer menu with wide appeal, whether you're up for a glass of wine and sharing a plate at the bar, or prefer to do the whole multi-course, big night out thing. I came with an open mind and left a believer. Now, if I could only get my hands on some more of that ricotta toast...

Favorites: Ricotta fresca, Rigatoni alla Norcia, and Bresaola with Figs • Insider Tip: Request a corner booth and ask for Bill • Go: After work drinks or a dressed up Saturday dinner • www.cinquecentoboston.com

Merrill & Co. (update: unfortunately Merill has closed it's doors)

Grab some friends, throw on your finest pair of skinny jeans, and hit up Merrill & Co. for some elevated diner food. I say that with love and mean it in the best way possible. How so? The staff is super cool, laid back yet attentive, serving up food that feels both new and nostalgic. Let your hair hang down as you jam to "Pumped Up Kicks" on the sound system and dip your pizza rolls to the beat, because groovy tunes have that effect. The mood is upbeat and fun, so all you stiff, no-good-time Charlies might as well stay home. I don't often associate dinnertime with a seat dancing. Satisfying, pleasant, nice, sure, but Merrill & Co. changes everything. This spot is all about comfort food taken up a notch with a feel good vibe. Some nights feature a DJ, others trivia competitions, and, oh yes, brunch!

Favorites: Open faced buffalo chicken sandwich, Mac & Cheese, and Root Beer Float • Insider Tip: Show up with your best buds and hunker down for some good times, or just make a friend at the bar• Go: Trivia Night! Or post-work out to negate all those burnt calories. • www.merrillandcoboston.com

Find these 10 restaurants in the South End

BONUS: Cookie Monsters!

Blunch, Cafe Madeleine, and Appleton Cafe & Bakery have just the thing to curb your afternoon sweet craving. These giant, chocolate chip creations are perfect for sharing, or rewarding yourself for being so darn awesome, all are baked in house and will give your mama's winning recipe a run for its money.

Have you tried any of these eateries? What's your favorite? Share your South End picks in the comments below!

•••••

A big thank you to Tremont 647, Blunch, Blackbird Doughnuts, Orinoco Kitchen, Appleton Bakery & Cafe, The Elephant Walk, Cafe Madeleine, J.J. Foley's, Cinquecento, and Merrill & Co. for welcoming and hosting us with delicious food and beverages. As always, all opinions, text, and images are my own. See our ethics page for more information. Thank you for supporting the sponsors that make life a little better here at Camera & Carry On.

The post A Local’s Food Guide to Boston’s South End appeared first on Camera & Carry On.

My Inner 9 Year Old Has Taken Over This Winter

Shannon — Fri, 27 Feb 2015 23:05:09 +0000

I blame my backwards relationship with Old Man Winter on the missed experience of snow as a kid born & raised in Florida. Most Christmases I dreamed that one day I'd wake up to find the white, fluffy stuff coating the palm trees outside my bedroom window. Instead I'd Taylor Swift -- shake off -- the far-fetched fantasy with weather-appropriate shorts and ~~t-shirt~~ a tank top. If I was lucky, there would be a chill in the air that meant we could turn off the a/c and open the windows. Since leaving my birthplace, I have intimately come to know the two faces of winter: the bitter bite (I'm looking at you, Chicago) and [insert something here that equates to the fun/happy things snow and winter means]. Now calling Boston home, I'm reporting on this record breaking season from the front lines. So far, 2015 is #2 in snowfall, with a current total of 101.8" and quickly catching up to 1996's 107.8". Looks like I better start planning the We Hit A New Record winter snowfall party now (i.e., hard cider, cookies, and slow-cooker meal to keep us fat and happy the next time we're stuck in). Back to the point... The winter has coaxed out the kid in me, and I'm not fighting it. Sorry, adult self, you're just going to have to park it until spring. Signs my inner 9 year old has taken over my life: I want to sleep in really late. Ok, so maybe this qualifies more as a tween-aged trait, but all I want to do is stay in bed in the morning. No school today, thanks! When I feel the cold seeping through microscopic cracks in my dated apartment windows, and it still appears to be nighttime, it's really, really hard to fight the urge to pull the covers a little tighter. I could (almost) live on hot chocolate. Were it not for gobs of whipped cream, my sole dietary intake would consist of cocoa powder and sugar. Thanks to spoonfuls of hand-mixed white stuff, I get dose of vitamin D. Cows are the best! I learned to snowboard. It's what all the kids are doing these days. I tried skiing once before and the results were not pleasant [enter snowmobile rescue scenario]. My tin man knees knees did much better stabilized on a single plank, aaaand I only fell about 12 times. One million points go to me! I will challenge anyone to a snowball fight. People on my street, be grateful the snow has not been wet and packable. That hasn't stopped me from jumping, rolling, kicking, and twirling in it; activities well suited for the light and airy flakes. Snow days are a thing! No work for my Michael means we get togetherness time during the week, which is AWESOME, because he has a 'real job' that requires he go to work, while I'm here, blogging away in my designer (pronounced tar-jay) leisure wear. Translation: he is the designated Sumo walker. Fresh snow is my shot of adrenaline. It's snowing? IT'S SNOWIIIIING! My instant perk-up: it's beautiful, makes everything not-so-beautiful look awfully pretty, and brings a big ol' smile to my face. Like a pretty-pretty princess, I prance about with sparkles in my eyes because THIS is what it feels like to be inside a snow globe. Kid food? Me wants it. I didn't really do junk food as a kid, but these sub zero temps have my taste buds yearning for some spare tire makin' grub. I have no shame in eating dessert for breakfast. If it is warm or gooey, or warm and gooey, I will enjoy it. Hells-yeah to some mac & cheese, cinnamon buns, and bacon [anything]. My good side taming the ferocious lion, I attempt to healthify the naughty recipes now and again. Sometimes. What does winter do to you? Are you a kid at heart, like me? Or an old grouch?

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