Get us in your inbox

Tanya Edwards

Tanya Edwards

Contributor

Tanya Edwards is a freelance writer based in coastal New England. Her work has appeared in the Boston Globe, Refinery29, CNN, Better Homes & Gardens, Food Network and more. She knows exactly where to get the best happy hour oysters and Guinness in Boston, and beyond.

Follow Tanya Edwards

Articles (55)

The Best Pho in Boston: 9 Spots for Vietnamese Noodle Soup

The Best Pho in Boston: 9 Spots for Vietnamese Noodle Soup

There’s little more satisfying in life than sitting down to a steaming, fragrant bowl of brothy noodles, and the best pho in Boston has got you covered. This classic Vietnamese dish—which features a painstakingly brewed, aromatic bone broth accompanied by a melange of meats, vegetables, herbs and rice noodles—is a surefire, slurpable way to soothe your soul. Fortunately for us, our city and its surroundings offer some of the best spots to find pho in the country, and we’re letting you in our top picks.  In the mood for something slightly different? A heaping bowl of the best ramen in Boston might do the trick, or see our guides to  best Japanese restaurants, best Korean restaurants and best Chinese restaurants in town.

The Best Outdoor Dining Boston: 16 Spots for Patio Eating

The Best Outdoor Dining Boston: 16 Spots for Patio Eating

When spring has finally sprung, and the sun is on our shoulders, crowds descend upon the best outdoor dining in Boston. It’s basically a known fact that food tastes better when eaten on a patio, roof deck or really just about anywhere that's open to the fresh air. Now that al fresco season has arrived, and we’re giving you the best restaurants in Boston with outdoor seating, good vibes and even better food. From waterfront restaurants to rooftop spots to patio bars, we’ve got your sun-drenched socializing covered. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best food and drink in Boston

The 9 best picnic spots in Boston

The 9 best picnic spots in Boston

Boston in the spring and summer can be pure bliss, and we know we should never take a beautiful day for granted. What better way to take advantage of the warmer weather than to head outdoors for a city picnic. The best part? You don't need a reservation—just grab a blanket, pack up your meal (and maybe a sneaky bottle of wine) and find your way to one of the most peaceful picnic spots in Boston. You'll find them hiding in Boston parks and gardens, outside cultural landmarks and along the waterfront. Looking for more fresh air finds? Check out our lists of the best patio bars and best outdoor restaurants. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Boston  

The Best Wings in Boston

The Best Wings in Boston

There are few classic American bar snacks that can compete with chicken wings. Whether you like drummies or are a fan of flats, the best wings in Boston will offer a savory note to your nights out. Some wings may stick to tradition, being smothered in Buffalo sauce and paired with blue cheese, while others may be more bold, boasting a crispy, Korean-style preparation. And some of the best wings in town don’t even come from chickens! You can find some of them at our best sports bars, or if you’d like something a little different, try the best burgers and best beer bars in town. RECOMMENDED: Our guide to the best bars in Boston

Where to Find Karaoke in Boston: The 9 Best Bars for Singing

Where to Find Karaoke in Boston: The 9 Best Bars for Singing

Whether or not you have American Idol-worthy vocal talent, sometimes, you just need to belt it out—and luckily, the best karaoke bars in Boston are here for it. Our city boasts lots of bars and restaurants that have weekly or even nightly sing-along sessions, where patrons show-off their vocal and performance skills. If you prefer to forego the karaoke for a more low-key evening, try one of Boston’s best dive bars. Looking for something more romantic? Try one of the best date ideas in Boston. Or, if you want to watch a pro hit the mic, head to one of Boston’s best music venues. RECOMMENDED: See the full list of the best bars in Boston

Things to Do in Boston for College Students: The Ultimate Guide

Things to Do in Boston for College Students: The Ultimate Guide

Whether graduation is just around the corner or a few years away, figuring out what to do as a college student in Boston can be overwhelming. Add in a limited budget, and you might find yourself just hanging out in your dorm room. We’re here to save you from that fate, with dozens of affordable things you can do in the city, including going to cultural events and walking tours, and, of course, taking advantage of deals and dive bars. Additionally, you can find well-priced meals at the best Mediterranean restaurants, best Thai restaurants and best Indian restaurants in town. Of course, you’ll want to read the best things to do in Boston so you can check them all off your list.

The 16 best ice cream shops in Boston

The 16 best ice cream shops in Boston

We New Englanders know our ice cream—after all, we do have Friendly's and Ben & Jerry's in our blood. So when it comes to the best ice cream in Boston, we set the bar high. Many spots throughout the city strive to satisfy adventurous eaters with their gourmet concoctions and bold ingredients, while other parlors are still cranking out the classics for the traditionalists. Not a fan of frozen treats? You can still get your sugar fix at the best bakeries and the best dessert spots and best places for pie in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Guide to the best restaurants in Boston.

The 17 best burgers in Boston

The 17 best burgers in Boston

Burgers are never a bad idea. There's such beauty in a simple, ground beef patty poised between two buns—and its versatility means that it can serve as a quick grab-and-go lunch, be enjoyed with a glass of good wine at a gourmet dinner or cap off your late night before you head home from the bar. We’ve found the best classic and inventive burgers across Boston, and the one thing they all have in common is that they’re all juicy and delicious. Looking to get your hands on more local, hand-held specialties? Check out the best lobster rolls in Boston, the best sandwiches in Boston and the best tacos in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

The 16 best day trips from Boston

The 16 best day trips from Boston

While many of us could easily spend every waking moment in Boston, it can be refreshing to escape the city for 24 hours or so. Fortunately, this picturesque New England region offers an array of potential day trips from Boston, including quaint seaside villages, historic towns and stunning mountain vistas. So grab your pals or significant other, and hop on a ferry, train or automobile to one of these lovely destinations. Once you're back in town, you'll once again feel ready to take advantage of the best Boston attractions, best free things to do in Boston and best museums in Boston. And when you need a little longer time away check out our list of the best weekend getaways in New England.RECOMMENDED: The Best Hotels in Boston

The best Irish food for celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Boston

The best Irish food for celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Boston

Are you ready to celebrate what could arguably be considered the biggest holiday in Boston? Sunday, March 17, is the big day when the St. Patrick's Day Parade—one of the oldest and most renowned in the United States—will weave through the streets of South Boston. The annual fanfare features marching bands, bagpipers, Irish dancers and floats, attracting locals and visitors alike. As always, Southie will serve as the epicenter of the St. Patrick's Day festivities, with crowds filling the neighborhood to watch the parade and celebrate—but all of that partying and downing pints at the best Irish pubs can work up an appetite. Fortunately, folks can feast on their favorite Irish dishes and drinks, like corned beef and cabbage, pot pies and Guinness from restaurants and bars throughout the city. Here’s where to find St. Paddy’s Day menu specials in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best bars in boston

The 10 best beer bars in Boston

The 10 best beer bars in Boston

One of the best beer cities in the country, Boston has breweries aplenty—and our pubs and restaurants love a local pour. But suds fans can also find brews from around the world at many bars throughout town. From microbreweries to innovative taprooms with collaborations on draft, these spots deserve a place on your beer tour of Boston. You can also go straight to the source and check out the city’s highly rated craft breweries or, if beer isn't your thing, hit up the best wine bars and best cocktails bars in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best bars in Boston

The 13 best ramen restaurants in Boston

The 13 best ramen restaurants in Boston

A steaming hot bowl of ramen, filled with warming noodles and topped with meats, eggs and vegetables is a meal that warms the body and soul. Boston has a bevy of excellent ramen shops spanning from Fenway to the Seaport—and everywhere in between. If you’re seeking a steaming bowl of hot noods, we've got you covered with the finest slurp shops in town—just check out our top ramen picks. For other Asian specialties, take a look at our choices for Boston's best sushi, Boston's best Japanese restaurants and the best Chinese restaurants in Boston. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best restaurants in Boston

Listings and reviews (25)

Lê Madeline

Lê Madeline

Early in 2024, Quincy stalwart Pho Lihn quietly rebranded as Lê Madeline, with a focus on modernized Vietnamese food. With this sister restaurant to Dorchester’s Pho Hoa, the second-generation owner wanted to breathe new life into this location. It’s been a stunning success (the lobster roll is a must). They’ve kept the classic pho dac biet on the menu, and it’s a rich, flavorful example of how this soup should be executed, packed with noodles and all the toppings.

Pho Le

Pho Le

The Le family have been in the Boston-area restaurant business for more than 30 years, and their commitment shows, if you visit their classic Vietnamese restaurant in Dorchester. Hearty bowls of pho are ladled out 12 hours daily. You can’t go wrong with any choice on the menu, but we recommend the house special beef noodle soup, which is loaded with thinly sliced rare eye round, well-done flank, brisket, tendon and tripe.

Pho Viet

Pho Viet

With locations in Newton Centre and Brookline, Pho Viet’s no-nonsense spots dole out big bowls of this noodle dish, along with excellent banh mi. The restaurant has the classic special beef noodle soup, along with fish and seafood versions, and this place has the strongest vegetarian-friendly menu amongst all of the Vietnamese restaurants in town.

Pho Pasteur

Pho Pasteur

With quick-serve spots in Chinatown and Quincy, Pho Pasteur is a must-have. The dac biet here is packed with rare steak, well-done flank, brisket, tendon and tripe, offering an even beefier, heartier take on the classic. The bo vien, which features traditional meatballs, is a savory alternative worth slurping.

Saigon Hut

Saigon Hut

This bright pink spot in East Boston is hard to miss—and that’s a good thing because you don’t want to miss this charming noodle shop. The restaurant serves all of the classics, but we love the pho chicken noodle soup, which includes a comforting natural chicken broth studded with shredded chicken, rice noodles and veggies.

Pho Hoa

Pho Hoa

From the family that runs Lê Madeline comes a Field’s Corner fave since 1992. You’ll find a large selection of Vietnamese entrees and soups, but the stand out here is the 60 Hue special soup, which is based on a recipe from the Hue region in Vietnam. You’ll get a hearty soup of sliced shank, shrimp and pork meatballs, beef tendon and pork knuckle, all suspended within a beef and lemongrass broth minced lemongrass and served with a thick rice noodle.

New Saigon

New Saigon

Tucked into a sweet little counter-service spot in the Orient Heights neighborhood, you’ll find top-notch noodle soups and Vietnamese sandwiches at New Saigon. They offer the traditional styles of this classic soup, but, for something different, try the seafood pho, which is filled with shrimp, squid, fish cakes, crab meat and vegetables. Don’t visit this spot without picking up a decadent Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk!

Noodle Barn

Noodle Barn

Thai-Vietnamese cuisine reigns at this eclectic Jamaica Plain spot. Settle into the cozy space and enjoy a flavorful bowl of dac biet with rice or yellow noodles, and the option to add veggies and tofu. Starters from across Asia—spiced wings, salt and pepper calamari and crab rangoon—round out the crowd pleasing menu.

Mecha Noodle Bar

Mecha Noodle Bar

This Connecticut-based ramen joint has locations throughout New England, and opened up spots in the Seaport and Brookline this past year. The restaurant specializes in ramen and pho, but they also offer boozy bubble tea, like the creamy Thai iced tea spiked with whiskey. The spicy miso ramen has a nice kick but won’t have you reaching for your drink with every slurp, and the tonkotsu is made with a Hakata-stylem 24-hour pork broth that’s packed with flavor.

Hakata Ramen

Hakata Ramen

Take a trip on the Red Line to Quincy for ramen made with a savory, pork bone broth, with tonkotsu, miso and tan tan on the menu, along with a vegetarian option. All can be made spicy. Sushi and donburi are also available, if you’re in the mood for more than noods. The restaurant has two more locations—one in Boston’s Back Bay (called Berklee Noodles Factory) and the other in Waltham.

Bosso Ramen Tavern

Bosso Ramen Tavern

This newish (they opened in 2022) ramen shop in Harvard square is described as a “Japanese ramen izakaya” tavern, and they serve ramen inspired by the Boso Peninsula, with a rotating menu of ramen with names like emni, meaning savory, and karami, meaning essence of spiciness. The shop also offers a variety of umami-rich small dishes like norishio fries, ponzu shishito, edamame shiro-miso hummus and sushi.

Castle Island Brewing

Castle Island Brewing

The Norwood-based brewery opened its shiny new taproom in Southie back in 2021, and, at this point, it’s safe to say that it’s a hit. They pour a mix of Castle Island’s suds (like Candlepin, their pale ale), as well as limited releases, one-offs, collaborations and some experimental beers that are in development. The last time we were in, they were pouring a sour that somehow tasted like a margarita, and it came with a spicy rim. They’ve partnered with Bardo’s Bar Pizza to serve classic bar pies (maybe the best in town) along with wings and other beer-friendly nosh. 

News (1)

Play with a dozen golden retrievers at this Vermont farm

Play with a dozen golden retrievers at this Vermont farm

There's an adorable activity taking place up north and it involves a dozen sweet dogs. Yes, you can play with 12 golden retrievers and get photos taken with them this holiday season.  Head to Jeffersonville Vermont’s Golden Dog Farm for an aww-inducing Golden Retriever Experience. For $75 a person, you can have a playdate with the farm's super friendly golden retrievers for an hour or so.  Becca and Doug Worple run the farm, and began offering the experience back in September. They told Boston.com that the response was “immediate and overwhelming” with travel Tiktokers posting about the dogs, and the farm’s own account garnering over 2 million views. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Golden Dog Farm - Vermont (@goldendogfarmvt)   The dogs don’t actually live on the farm, they come from local breeders Butternut Hill Golden Retrievers, which is owned by friends of the Worples. The breeders bring in a dozen or so dogs for the day, and they’re all friendly and ready to play and cuddle with farm guests.  Watching the retrievers leap from the back of the truck is pretty adorable, and guests can take photos and videos of the whole group.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jordana Judson | 🗽NYC + FL Content Creator (@jordanataylor)   Farm owner Becca is a professional photographer, and happy to take photos of you with the dogs, as well as selfies you take on your own. She and her husband found their way to Vermont from Oh

All the reasons to book a staycation at the Boston Harbor Hotel

All the reasons to book a staycation at the Boston Harbor Hotel

There’s not much we’re bigger fans of than a staycation in the city. Whether coming from one of the local neighborhoods, across the river from Somerville or from an outlying suburb, setting into a luxury room right in the center of it all feels so indulgent and fun. Recently, we had the opportunity to take a weekend break at the breathtaking Boston Harbor Hotel, and beyond those famous views, here’s what to expect.  History of the Boston Harbor Hotel A luxury hotel overlooking the Boston Harbor and Rose Kennedy Greenway, the Boston Harbor Hotel, part of the Rowes Wharf building, was built in 1987.  With a location that overlooks the stunning harbor on one side, with views of the Harbor Islands, East Boston and flights coming in and out of Logan airport, and spilling out onto the Greenway on the other, this hotel is all about the fantastic location. Photograph: Courtesy Boston Harbor Hotel For a romantic city getaway with your partner, it’s tough to beat being within walking distance of the North End, downtown and the theater district.  The rooms at the Boston Harbor Hotel The rooms are all luxuriously appointed with classic modern furnishings, and the hotel offers allergen and feather free floors. While we’ll always choose the harbor views, the city views many of the rooms offer are stunning as well. Sailing and history enthusiasts will enjoy all the nods to Boston’s past with history maps and seafaring art rooting the property with a true sense of the city.  Photograph: C

Bostonians have been posting hilarious videos about the bust of a snowstorm

Bostonians have been posting hilarious videos about the bust of a snowstorm

We never thought we’d see the day when the mayor of Boston would apologize for the lack of snow in the city, but here we are. Tuesday, February 13 was supposed to see Boston covered in at least eight inches of fluffy white snow, but instead there was barely a sprinkle across town. Mayor Michelle Wu declared a snow emergency on Monday, however that ended up seeming pretty unnecessary.  Mayor Wu apologized for calling a snow emergency In an appearance on GBH’s “Boston Public Radio” late Tuesday, she explained, “I will take being overprepared than underprepared every single time, but it does come with a lot of disruption and inconvenience for families and people trying to get to their jobs.” She added, “So it’s really unfortunate, but we are glad to be safe, rather than sorry.” Mayor Wu explained how the decision to call a snow emergency is made While a bad call on a snow day can be a pain for everyone, the mayor did explain how city officials  arrived at the decision. There was a major change in the storm’s track late on Monday, which is difficult to predict.  “I think it goes to show not only is our climate changing in general that we haven’t had a significant snowstorm now in more than two years, but also the predictability of the weather — every storm can change so quickly on its path, the projections, the amounts,” Wu said.  The mayor acknowledged that keeping the citizens of Boston, especially children, is a big factor.  “It’s basically a calculation of, how likely are we

25 best snow day food & drink specials in Boston

25 best snow day food & drink specials in Boston

Brace yourself Boston, we’ve got another winter storm watch coming and this one looks like it might actually pack some punch. As of Monday morning, Boston is predicted to receive between eight and 12 inches of snow on Tuesday.  How much snow is Boston getting?  It’s looking to be the biggest snowstorm of the year, and the biggest since the winter of 2021-2022, when Boston was walloped by nearly two feet of snow on January 29, 2022. Most of the state is looking at a foot or more of snow, excepting, as always, the northwest corner of the state, the southeastern corner of the state, and the Cape and Islands. Where to drink and dine when it’s snowing in Boston So, what to do when you’re stuck in the city and it’s snowing? Walk your bundled up self to the closest eating and drinking establishment for some warm food and warming cocktails – that’s what we’ll be doing. We found the spots around town that are going to be open, and are planning on serving specials like prix-fixe dinners, free clam chowder and $1 chicken tenders. Who needs spring with specials like these? Anoush’ella Courtesy Cold days call for warming drinks and sweet bites, those are the rules. Good thing Anoush’ella will be doing their tahini hot chocolate with a sesame cookie for just $5 on Tuesday, February 13.  Atlántico Courtesy Chef Michael Serpa and the Atlántico team will be serving complimentary patatas bravas with any bottle of wine any time it snows.  Bambara Kitchen and Bar The restaurant at the Kimpto

Jamie Bissonette cooking up three new hotspots in Downtown Crossing

Jamie Bissonette cooking up three new hotspots in Downtown Crossing

Following the surprise split last year of chefs Ken Oringer and Jamie Bissonnette, who brought Boston some of its most beloved restaurants – Coppa, Toro and Little Donkey – many of us were left wondering what was next for Bissonnette. Oringer is still running the restaurants, plus the somewhat recently opened Faccia a Faccia.  We now have our answer, and for restaurant lovers, it sounds like great news. Bissonnette has partnered with experienced Boston restaurateurs Andy Cartin and Babak Bina to form a new restaurant group called BCB3, according to a press release. Here’s what to expect from Jamie Bissonnette’s new restaurants Coming in March, the group will launch three new spots in Downtown Crossing at 11 Temple Place. First, there will be a modern Korean restaurant called Somaek, then a spirit forward listening bar and a subterranean sushi restaurant called Sushi @ Temple Records. The group says they have even more planned for later this year, but details aren’t available yet.  Bissonnette says these new spots are a passion for the group “We’re intentionally leading off BCB3 by introducing passion projects to Boston,” he explained in a statement. “Between my history in the kitchen, Andy’s inventive work in the beverage space and Babak’s passion for restaurant design and development, we’ve put a lot of energy and excitement into ideating new spaces that showcase who we are as both individuals and as a collective. We’re looking forward to bringing bold and spirited bar and r

Colonnade Hotel brings back Frosty Fridays “pay the temperature” deal

Colonnade Hotel brings back Frosty Fridays “pay the temperature” deal

If it seems like this gloomy winter will never end, there’s one upside: A staycation deal that might brighten your weekend.  The Colonnade Hotel, right on Huntington Avenue in the Back Bay, is celebrating the return of their Frosty Fridays deal this winter. Get in a little staycation for less with this fun offer that sets your Friday night stay at the temperature.  Courtesy The colder it is, the more you’ll save What does that mean? It’s all about last minute plans. If you book a two-night stay, after 5pm on a Friday night, you'll pay the outside temperature that Friday night as determined by the National Weather Service, followed by a regular room rate for Saturday night. So, if it's 10 degrees outside, that’s a $10 room rate! And, it’s a deal even if it’s 40 degrees out (where else can you get a luxe room in the heart of Back Back for $40?).  Courtesy Perfect for a romantic getaway or a girlfriend's weekend, you’ll also get overnight parking for one car in the onsite garage (typically $55 per night), a 20% off coupon for onsite restaurant, LUCIE drink + dine and late check-out at 2pm. This offer runs through the end of March, and you can book your room and get more information at the Colonnade’s website.  Things to do in Boston in the winter Not sure what to do during your staycation? Try dinner one of Boston’s most romantic restaurants, try a warming hot cocktail at one of our best bars or spend the day in one of our world class museums. Looking to actually get out of

Massachusetts ranked as 11th best state for singles, new study shows

Massachusetts ranked as 11th best state for singles, new study shows

  With Valentine’s Day upon us, we have good news for Hub based singles looking for love: Your chances are better than in 39 other states. Personal-finance website WalletHub just released its report on 2024's Best & Worst States for Singles, and Massachusetts rates high (despite what Reneé Rapp says).  The study compared the 50 states across 29 key indicators of dating-friendliness. The data set ranges from the share of single adults to online-dating opportunities to restaurants per capita. How did Massachusetts rank? Massachusetts was ranked in 11th place with a score of 55.40. The best state for singles was Florida with a total score of 66.92. The worst state for singles was West Virginia for a score of 35.59. How did Massachusetts score across the board? In order to identify the best and worst states for singles, WalletHub compared the 50 states with three factors in mind: Dating economics, dating opportunities and romance and fun.  Massachusetts was in 4rd place for dating economics, and 48th for dating opportunities and, excitingly, 13th for romance and fun.  For calculating dating economics, the study looked at prices for beer and wine, Starbucks caffe lattes, movie costs, salon costs, household income, unemployment rates and more, while the dating opportunities set looked at the metrics of single adults, online and mobile dating opportunities and openness to relationships.  Romance and fun, our personal favorite part of dating, looked at the number of restaurants and a

Where to watch the Super Bowl in Boston

Where to watch the Super Bowl in Boston

The Super Bowl is here, and while the Patriots aren’t playing this year, watching the game is always a great time!  If you’re looking to go out and watch the game, or just the halftime performance from R&B icon Usher, there are bars and restaurants offering specials so you can eat and drink your way through the sadness of the end of the Belichick era. When is Super Bowl 58? The big game will be played at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday, February 11, 2024. The game will be between two yet-to-be-decided teams: the playoff winners from the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). This will be the first Super Bowl held in Nevada. Last year, Super Bowl 57 was between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs, with the Chiefs winning 38-35. Who is performing at the Super Bowl halftime show? Eight-time Grammy-winning singer Usher will headline the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show. "It's an honor of a lifetime to finally check a Super Bowl performance off my bucket list. I can't wait to bring the world a show unlike anything else they've seen from me before," the singer said in a statement. In one of the announcement videos, playing off the singer's song "Confessions, Pt. II," Kim Kardashian calls Usher to let him know he's the halftime headliner. Where can I watch the Super Bowl in Boston? If you’d like to get off your couch and enjoy a Super Bowl party, Boston has you covered. Bars and restaurants around the Hub are offering

You could win free coffee for a year from Alltown Fresh

You could win free coffee for a year from Alltown Fresh

We take coffee seriously, and free coffee is even better! Alltown Fresh, the convenience store and market with locations around New England, is giving 16 lucky winners all the coffee they can drink for a year. That will perk anyone up, even in this freezing weather. How to win a year of free coffee If you’re a regular at the market, you’ll be entered for a chance to win their “bean-to-cup” hot or iced coffee for a year. All you have to do is enter your registered phone number or pay with their mobile app at check-out. Or place your order online using the store's mobile app between January 1-31, 2024. Where to find Alltown Fresh locations in New England Not sure where you can find Alltown Fresh? They’re all over Massachusetts, with locations in Ayer, Easton, Hopkinton, Hudson, Marlboro and Plymouth. You can also find them in New Hampshire in Manchester and two locations in Nashua, and if you’re heading south, try a Connecticut location. You’ll find stores in Bolton, Hamden, Middlebury and Waterbury. Alltown Fresh opened their first market and takeaway location in Plymouth back in 2019. They’re celebrating the fifth anniversary of their stores this year, and each shop offers fresh food choices like baked bread, organic produce and ready to eat meals. Their coffee is brewed in small batches and meets the the Specialty Coffee Association’s (SCA) Golden Cup Standard. Sign up for a loyalty account Not a member of the Alltown Fresh loyalty program? It’s easy to sign up. Just downloa

Federal government is banning hilarious highway signs

Federal government is banning hilarious highway signs

One of our favorite ways to stay entertained in traffic is disappearing, thanks to the U.S. Federal Highway Administration. The agency has given states two years to implement all the changes outlined in its new 1,100-page manual released last month, including rules that spell out how signs and other traffic control devices are regulated. The Associated Press is reporting that administration officials say electronic signs with pop culture references, local jokes and obscure meanings will be banned in 2026 because they are distracting to drivers and can be misunderstood. What are the famous lighted signs in Massachusetts?  The most famous locally is probably “Use Yah Blinkah,” which inspired a contest for more clever signs back in 2014.  The winners were “Make yah Ma proud, wear yah seatbelt,” to encourage belt use, “Keep Calm and Drive On,” to prevent road rage, and “Put down the phone! Your LOLs and OMGs can wait,” to fight distracted driving.  Our neighbors to the south in Rhode Island got in on the fun, running a “Go Pats! Cheer em’ on but don’t tie one on” sign back in 2019.  While the CT DOT was pre-treating roads for no reason, the RI DOT was busy coming up with creative highway signs! pic.twitter.com/fbdF0utsDg — eweather (@Eweather13) January 13, 2019   Do other states have funny highway signs? Other states had fun with their lighted signs as well, like “Visiting in-laws? Slow down, get there late,” from Ohio; “Don’t drive Star Spangled Hammered,” from Pennsylvania

Jerod Mayo to replace Bill Belichick as the Patriots coach

Jerod Mayo to replace Bill Belichick as the Patriots coach

Just one day after parting ways with Bill Belichick, the New England Patriots have given the nod to Jerod Mayo to take over as head coach. ESPN reports that Mayo will be formally introduced at a news conference next week, making him the 15th head coach in Pats history. He will also be the youngest coach in the NFL at 37 years old. He is also the first Black coach in Patriots history. However, his young age doesn’t mean he’s inexperienced. Mayo was a linebacker for the Patriots from 2008 to 2015 after being selected in the first round of the draft out of Tennessee. He joined the Patriots coaching staff in 2019 and has been working as inside linebackers coach ever since.  ESPN reports that the team’s players are extremely supportive of Mayo stepping into the role, writing that when news of Belichick leaving broke, one defender said in a text: "I hope they give it to Mayo. He deserves it." Mayo spent his entire career playing football for the Patriots, leading the team in tackles each of his first five seasons. He was part of one Super Bowl championship team, in 2014, although limited to six games that season because of a leg injury. In December, Mayo expressed his interest in the head coach job to CBS News Boston, saying, “Hopefully, as you guys all know, one day I want to be a head coach. Where that is, I don’t know.” He also was very clear he wanted to coach in New England, and expressed his love for the Patriots fans, saying, “But at the same time, I would say I have a lot o

Bill Belichick is no longer the coach of the Patriots

Bill Belichick is no longer the coach of the Patriots

We can’t say we didn’t see it coming, but we’re sad to see the coach who brought us six Super Bowl wins go. After leading the New England Patriots to six Super Bowl rings and the most successful run in the history of the NFL, Bill Belichick will reportedly no longer be coaching the team according to a post on X (formerly Twitter) from ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Mike Reiss. Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots are expected to part ways today after a remarkable 24 seasons together, ending an unmatched run in NFL history that included six Super Bowl titles, league sources tell me and @MikeReiss. pic.twitter.com/IcibaPpA4S — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 11, 2024   Belichick and Patriots owner Robert Kraft reportedly met this week following the conclusion of a 4-13 season (Belichick’s worst in his 24 season New England tenure). The talks, per the full report on ESPN, were said to “have no conflict, no disagreement, and in the end, productive talks resulted in a mutual decision that left both sides comfortable and at ease.” The sports network also reported that Belichick, who has another year on his contract, will be leaving without the Pats looking for him to compensate them for leaving early. At 71, he’s reportedly interested in continuing his coaching career. League sources say he is expected to draw interest from at least some of the other seven NFL teams that have head-coaching vacancies, such as the Atlanta Falcons. The Pats are now looking for their first n