Coolidge Corner isn’t usually a top-of-the-list neighborhood when reviewing Boston’s suburbia—but it sure should be. This quaint little area is packed with hip restaurants, cozy theatres, fun local bookstores, and action-packed sidewalks without the hassle of crowds. The social scene includes fresh college grads, uptown trendsetters, and successful professionals looking for a weekend getaway. With a subtle vintage feel, Coolidge Corner provides a variety of entertainment for daytime and evening. Plus: take the C line transit from Kenmore Square that will take you directly to the destination in a few short minutes.
Restaurants:
*Knight Moves: This unique café offers a quiet place to work, but also a board game setting for friends and family. All food and drink are 100% organic, and absolutely delicious.
*Lineage: A cute bistro that offers fresh seafood and other original plates that are locally grown with seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is warm, comfortable and very welcoming.
*Bottega Florentina: A casual Italian restaurant that offers a simple fine dining setting, and the most delectable pasta dishes. Take out is offered if you’re on the go.
*Zaftigs: This Jewish Delicatessen brings a whole new meaning to brunch. Their challah french toast is a must try, and they have lunch and dinner as well, with traditional jewish food as well as modern classics.
*OTTO Pizza: Gourmet (but cheap) pizza comes by the slice or as a full pie. Definitely a go-to for a casual cheap meal.
Entertainment/Nightlife:
*Coolidge Corner Theatre: Boston’s only non-profit independent movie house that specializes in international, documentary, animated and independent film selections. A must-see.
*JFK National Historic Site: Check out the childhood home and birthplace of John F. Kennedy; an exciting site if you’re looking to dive into the famous history of the neighborhood.
*Coolidge Corner Clubhouse: This bar is known as the nightlife spot in Coolidge Corner—with a variety of flat screens and ultra large helpings of pub food and beer.
*Hops N Scotch: An original bar with over 100 scotches available and over a dozen beers on tap. Southern comfort food and a comfy setting promise a fun filled night.
*The Regal Beagle: An eccentric bar with dim lighting, creative cocktails and different takes on American food favorites.
Shopping:
*The Pear Tree: Stores international beads of all sorts and offers jewelry-making tutorials and supplies. Also includes customized designs and jewelry repair.
*Mint Julep: A very charming boutique that houses women’s clothing and accessories from both local and international designers for great prices.
*Brookline Booksmith: An independent bookstore that provides two floors of new and used books of all kinds, as well as a gift shop.
*New England Comics: A well-known chain filled with vintage and new comics and displays. Definitely the place to go for some laid back browsing and interesting insights.
*Wild Goose Chase: A slightly higher-end modern and creative jewelry store, that also specializes in Pottery and home decor. They also have some funky clothing as well.
Hotels:
*The Verb Hotel: Designed with a hipster feel, the verb is equipped with an outdoor pool, lounge and an outdoor balcony for every room.
*Hotel Buckminster: Located next to Fenway Park, Hotel Buckminster is a relaxed and simple setting yet offers the perfect place to get friendly with Boston’s attractions.
*Hotel Commonwealth: Known as the hotel of the Boston Red Sox, this hotel is always action packed yet equally as accommodating—housing one of Back Bay’s finest bars: The Hawthorne.
*Eliot Hotel: With a traditional, English design, the Eliot Hotel provides a classic setting with friendly staff and spacious rooms. Additional plus: includes Uni Sashimi Bar and Clio Restaurant—perfect for late night dining or early breakfast/brunch.
If you’re looking for a fun-filled place without the direct urban setting, Coolidge Corner is an essential location to look at. Even if you don’t plan on getting a place in Brookline, making the quick trip on the T there for a day of shopping or evening of dinner and drinks is a must.