Issues → May/June 2010 → Travel → Massachusetts Bests 2010 →

Massachusetts Best Restaurants 2010

COMMENT

SINGLE PAGE

EMAIL

PRINT

SHARE:

Credit: Erick Ingraham

Best Paella
VIVA, Glendale
Sharing is at the heart of Spanish dining, and nothing invites communal eating more than a steaming pan of paella. The full-flavored paellas for two or more ($27 and up) at this rural hotspot are as bold and bright as the chili-red and saffron decor. 14 Glendale Road (Route 183). 413-298-4433; vivaberkshires.com

Best Barbecued Ribs
ROUTE 7 GRILL, Great Barrington
Whether it's the heritage pig breed or the slow-smoked dry-rub BBQ technique that makes the moist, meaty baby back ribs here so tasty yet lean, they're guaranteed crowd pleasers. 999 Main St. (Route 7). 413-528-3235; route7grill.com

Best Licorice Selection
ROBIN'S CANDY STORE, Great Barrington
The whole world loves licorice, judging from the international origins of the 50-plus varieties found at this confectionery temple. Whether you prefer salty double zoute drops, caramel-brown salmiak bella, herb-infused laurel pastilles, long-lasting "marbles," or even vegan and sugar-free varieties, look no further for your licorice fix. 288 Main St. 413-528-8477

Best Soft-Serve
NORTHFIELD CREAMIE, Northfield
An Upper Pioneer Valley institution for more than 50 years, this family-run take-out stand features dairy treats of all kinds, from regional ice cream brands to frappes made with farm-fresh milk. The rich, creamy soft serve is a must-have, dipped in one of a half-dozen flavored coatings and sprinkles. 62 Main St. 323-459-5499; northfieldcreamie.com

Best Casual Dining
HOPE & OLIVE, Greenfield
Delicious food, excellent prices, convivial setting: a cheerful spot emphasizing local grass-fed Black Angus burgers, organic salmon, and free-range chicken roasted with the season's freshest vegetables and fruit chutney. 44 Hope St. 413-774-3150; hopeandolive.com

Best Variation on Surf & Turf
ONYX FUSION BAR & RESTAURANT, Springfield
Bringing Hawaiian pizzazz to the banks of the Connecticut River, this eye-catching restaurant features inventive Pacific twists on New England favorites; the snow crab and seared filet mignon sushi roll unites surf and turf in every bite. 1150 West Columbus Ave. 413-730-6699; onyxfusion.com

Best Multigrain Bread
NASHOBA BROOK BAKERY, West Concord
The seven-grain loaf is studded with bits of organic dates that lend it moisture and a hint of sweetness, perfectly balancing the tang of the sourdough base. You may find yourself consuming half a loaf in one sitting--it's that good. 152 Commonwealth Ave. 978-318-1999; slowrise.com

Best Scones
DORSET CAFE, Wellesley Hills
The real thing: Enjoy subtly flavored citrus and currant scones plain or with traditional clotted cream or lemon curd. 352 Washington St. 781-239-8988; dorsetcafe.com