New South End restaurant part of Washington Street redevelopment

South End Patch reported this week that owners of the building housing Mike's City Diner and Toro have entered into an agreement to develop the nearby Hite Radio and TV property into an upscale condo building with restaurant space at the street level. Located at the corner of Washington Street and Worcester Square, the proposed restaurant space would be roughly the same size as Toro.

Several residents spoke in favor of the project on Tuesday, lauding plans to store trash indoors and contain noise through modern construction materials. Another restaurant would contributed to the safety of the neighborhood by adding life to an otherwise dark stretch of sidewalk, some said.

Nearby restaurants to the site include Teranga, Seiyo, and Equator. Stella owner Evan Deluty also recently announced plans to open a Latin-themed restaurant on Washinton Street several blocks from the Hite site.

Champions now booking fantasy football draft parties

The Boston Marriott Copley Place announced today that they are accepting private dining reservations for NFL fantasy football draft parties at the hotel's Champions sports bar. Champions, a popular gathering spot for sports fans of all kinds, was recently relocated to the hotel's second level following a 2009 renovation.

Groups who book a private dining room in advance benefit from plug-in capabilities (to show laptop screen displays on surrounding televisions), as well as a dedicated waitperson.

To book a party call 617-236-5800, ext. 4791.

P.F. Chang's sees fewer diners

The Boston Globe reports today that net income at the P.F. Chang's chain, which has locations in the Prudential Center, Park Square, and Cambridgeside Galleria, was down 29% in the 2nd quarter of this year.

Au Bon Pain by Symphony closes

Universal Hub reports today that Au Bon Pain on Massachusetts Avenue in the Church Park Apartment complex near Symphony Hall has closed for good. I wonder what will go into the space, which gets a tremendous amount of food traffic. Could this closing have anything to do with the Panera that opened around corner on Huntington Avenue earlier this year?

Hubway launches today

Hubway, Boston's first ever bike-sharing program launches today with an event at City Hall Plaza with Mayor Menino. Workers have been busy over the last several weeks installing the solar-powered bike stations at locations all over the city. In all there will be 61 bike rental stations with over 600 bikes in total available in the city. The system, which is primarily sponsored by Boston-based shoe maker New Balance, will be operated by Alta Bicycle Share. You can either sign up for an annual membership on the Hubway website or a more casual 24 hour or three day membership at any of the kiosks. All trips under thirty minutes are free. The New Balance Hubway will greatly enhance bicycle transportation around Boston and will soon be launched in Cambridge, Somerville, and Brookline. Even if you already own a bike you can benefit from Hubway as it will allow you to pick up a bike in one part of the city and return it in another without have to worry about schlepping it all the way home.

Shakespeare on the Common begins tonight

The Commonwealth Shakespeare Company's annual free season on the Boston Common begins tonight with an 8pm performance of "All's Well that Ends Well." Performances run Tuesday through Saturday at 8pm, and Sundays at 7pm through August 14th. The performance, which takes place by the Parkman Bandstand on the Common, runs two hours and forty five minutes in length. There will be one matinee performance on Saturday July 30th at 2pm. The performance series is presented by the John W. Henry Family Foundation.

Jacob Wirth owner seriously injured in Saugus crash

South End Patch reports today that longtime Jacob Wirth owner W. Kevin Fitzgerald was seriously injured when his car got involved in the Saugus tanker truck crash and fire early Saturday morning, which killed the tanker driver and spilled over 11,000 gallons of fuel. Mr. Fitzgerald underwent emergency surgery for serious burns at Mass. General Hospital, where he was listed in serious condition according to the article. He is also the owner of Fitz-Inn parking which operates several lots around Boston.

National Urban League convention meeting in Boston this week

The National Urban League convention, taking place in Boston this week, is seen as an opportunity for Boston to promote itself as an excellent place to host minority conventions and visitors but also as an opportunity for the city to raise its profile as place where minorities can relocate and find economic opportunities reports The Boston Globe today.

The effort by political, business, and tourism leaders to attract conventions since the early 2000s has pumped millions of dollars into local businesses through cab fares, hotel stays, and restaurant tabs. But it has also acted as word-of-mouth marketing when visitors return home and talk about their trips.

About 6,000 attendees are expected to spend $3.3 million during the three-day conference - its theme is “Jobs Rebuild America’’ - that begins Wednesday and features Obama administration members, international executives, and magazine editors. There are officially sanctioned events, such as a comedy show featuring Sinbad on Thursday night, as well as ancillary affairs.

Descent at W Hotel looks to open soon

Descent, the new lounge at the W Boston Hotel, looks to be opening soon. The hotel website indicates that it is hiring for a variety of positions for the new underground nightspot. Part of the initial opening plan of the hotel, Descent is billed as a venue which will combine the vibe of a 1920s speakeasy with the feel of a sleek modern lounge. Famed New York City mixologist Sasha Petraske, who helped start that city's cocktail craze, will design the drinks. He has opened similar spots in W Hotels in Atlanta (Drink Shop) and D.C. (POV Bar). Descent will complement the hotel's two other happening eating/drinking venues: Market by Jean George & The W Lounge.

Uno Due Go maybe coming to Boston

A Boston location of Uno Due Go, the fast-casual restaurant concept from Boston-based Uno Chicago Grill, appears to be under construction in Downtown Crossing at the corner of Summer Street and Arch Street.

Uno Due Go features deep dish pizza, all natural flatbreads, freshly made paninis, grab and go wrapped sandwiches and salads, soups, snacks, breakfast sandwiches, coffee and a full array of beverages. The food selections contain natural and organic ingredients as much as possible and the beverages include healthy offerings, such as juices rich in antioxidants. Some locations feature beer and wine, though it is not clear if the Boston location will be one of them.

Uno Due Go was first launched in late 2008 with two locations at the Dallas Fort Worth Airport and has since expanded to Cleveland State University and a campus of the University of Wisconsin.

Harpoon Brewery to be closed this Saturday

Harpoon tweets today that its Boston brewery will be closed (as will the Vermont location) for tours this coming Saturday July 30th due to the annual company outing. I'll bet Harpoon Brewery has a fun summer outing!

Cheeseboy to open at Prudential Center today

The Cheeseboy will open its second Boston location today at the Terrace Food Court at the Shops at the Prudential Center. This will the chain's fourth location in total and five more locations are planned by the end of the year.

The new Cheeseboy embodies Inwald’s vision to offer delicious, high-quality grilled cheese sandwiches, served quickly by a friendly staff. With sandwiches starting at $2.99, Cheeseboy offers customers an affordable quick meal without compromising quality and taste, using the freshest ingredients, including all-natural, specially made breads and premium cheeses sliced on premise. Customers can order classic sandwiches or create their own by choosing from an array of breads, cheeses, fresh meats and vegetables. A variety of hearty soups, macaroni and cheese, snacks and drinks are also featured on the menu.(from the Cheeseboy press release)

Colombian Flower Parade tomorrow in Downtown Crossing

Downtown Crossing will be site for a traditional Colombian flower-bearer parade performance called "Los Silleteros de Colombia" from 12pm-2pm tomorrow on Summer Street by Macy's. The group performing Monday performed this weekend in Rhode Island and East Boston. The event is sponsored by the Downtown Boston Business Improvement District and the Colombian Consulate of Boston.

Colombia, the second-largest flower exporter in the world, boasts a vibrant, multi-generational cultural heritage of silleteros. Passed down from parents to children, performers hoist silletas--wooden platforms containing elaborate floral arrangements--onto their shoulders. (Downtown Boston BID)

Logan Airport has busiest June on record

Boston.com reported last week that Logan Airport saw nearly 2.7 million passengers this June, the best June on record. Massport, which runs Logan Airport, said that June also marked the 24th straight month of year to year rises in passenger volume.

Panera coming to Harvard Square

The Harvard Crimson reported last week that Panera Bread will be opening this fall in Harvard Square, at the former Bob Slate Stationer store site. It will be located just steps from Au Bon Pain. Panera has opened stores this year in Boston on Boylston Street, Huntington Avenue, and the in South Bay Shopping Center. The company also recently opened a location in Porter Square.

Despite being a national chain founded in Missouri, the company has close ties to the Harvard Square community, said Panera Bread joint venture area director Gregg T. Godfrey. Ronald M. Shaich, founder and executive chairman of Panera Bread, graduated from Harvard Business School in 1978 and currently lives in Brookline.

Fire at The Burren in Somerville

Universal Hub reports today that there was small fire today at The Burren in Davis Square. The fire started in the exterior wall of the restaurant at about 4:35pm and was knocked down by 5pm. There's no word yet on if the restaurant will reopen this evening.

Bolt Bus leaves riders sweltering

Boston.com today reports that a Bolt Bus ride from New York City to Boston yesterday lacked air conditioning in the bus for the entire four-hour trip.

When BoltBus spokesman Timothy Stokes was asked in an e-mail why the air-conditioning did not work, whether anyone on the bus became seriously ill, and if the driver could have stopped more than once to give passengers some air, he responded only that the company is investigating the matter.

Cheeseboy to give away free drinks today

Cheeseboy, the to go grilled cheese spot, is giving away free large fountain drinks at its Boston and Braintree locations today with the purchase of any sandwich. This is the chain's way of helping people beat the heat as Cheeseboy pledged the free soda if the temperature topped 100 degrees this week, which it did. The nearest Cheeseboy location in Boston is at South Station.

Top Boston Restaurants on Twitter Named

BostInnovation today lists 30 restaurants in the Boston area that one should definitely follow on Twitter. It also gives you a preview of what the restaurants tweet about.

Whatever your food passion, Boston’s best restaurants are using twitter to tell their followers about specials, events and what’s on the menu. Whatever your reason is to hit that follow button, tap into your inner foodie and follow your stomach to 30 of the most actively tweeting Boston restaurants

Eddie Money performs at Hatch Shell this Saturday

Eddie Money will perform at the Hatch Shell this Saturday at 7pm as part of the 103.3 WODS Free Summer Concert Series. Eddie Money is known for hits such as "Take Me Home Tonight" and "Two Tickets to Paradise" among others.

Nine Zero Hotel avoids loan default

The Boston Business Journal reported last week that Nine Zero Hotel owner Kimpton Hotel Group recently avoided defaulting on a $24 million loan backing the hotel by modifying its debt payment structure to allow the company to make payments until 2014. The loan was scheduled to expire this past May.

Both revenue per available room and the average daily rate of the Nine Zero have fallen since Kimpton bought the property in 2006 from developer Intercontinental Real Estate Group.

The economy’s troubles and disappointing visitor traffic also have combined to depress the hotel’s value, according to recent appraisal data. Kimpton paid $72.3 million to acquire the hotel in early 2006, although a March appraisal of the property pegged its value at around half that amount, or $36.2 million.

This year however, the number of visitors to the Boston area has increased and increases are projected in the future, which should bode well for the Nine Zero Hotel.

Sports radio talk host calls out taxi drivers

The blog Son of Codman Square details a segment of 98.5 FM's Felger and Massorati show on Monday where cohost Miachael Felger took a swipe at Boston taxi drivers.

This evening on the Felger & Massaroti Show,co-host Micheal Felger complained for several minutes about Boston cab drivers as being "all Jamaican " and "not knowing the city at all". He went on to say that they "suck" and can't answer any questions a passenger may have about Boston. Co-host Tony Massaroti and whoever the guy who acts as a 3rd wheel for them added their dissatisfaction with local cabbies and indicted that "they all talk constantly on their cell phones" and despite having GPS,still get lost.

Felger should realize that a good deal of Boston cab drivers are Haitian and other races. They are not all Jamaican. And the vast majority can get you to where you want to go in the fastest way possible. While there is definitely room for cabs to improve in Boston, there is no place in our city for such a blanket statement on a specific ethnic group of people. Felger is walking a very thin line with his comments and he should be very careful in his future choice of words.

Thanks to Universal Hub for the heads up on this!

U.S. Coast Guard Tall Ship to visit Boston this weekend

The 295 foot U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Eagle, the largest tall ship flying the American flag, is scheduled to arrive at the Charlestown Navy Yard, next to the USS Constitution, this Friday, July 22, at 9 a.m. The only active square rigger in U.S. government service, the Eagle is used as a Coast Guard training ship. This year marks the 75th anniversary of its construction.

The Eagle will be open for free public tours Friday July 22nd from 1:00pm - 5:00pm, Saturday July 23rd from 1:00pm - 7:00pm, and Sunday July 24th, from 1:00pm - 7:00pm.

Constructed in 1936 by the Blohm and Voss Shipyard in Hamburg, Germany, and originally commissioned as the Horst Wessel by the German Navy, the Eagle was taken by the United States as a war reparation following World War II.

With more than 23,500 square feet of sail and six miles of rigging, the Eagle has served as a floating classroom to future Coast Guard officers since 1946, offering an at-sea leadership and professional development experience.

Construction begins on Hyatt Place in Braintree

Boston.com reports that ground was broken for the new Hyatt Place hotel in Braintree yesterday. The hotel, which was previously the Sheraton Braintree Hotel, is scheduled to open in March next year. The project will also add new retail and restaurant space.

Although the entire structure will not be torn down, parts of the castle-like adornments will be taken off and updates will be added to the existing structure.

“What we have planned for this redevelopment is really a fantastic, and much needed improvement on what this site was before,” said Richard L. Friedman, president and CEO of Carpenter & Company, in a release.

ArtROX Summer Festival this Saturday

The ArtROX Summer Festival, featuring unique works of art for sale, takes place this Saturday from 11am-6pm at the quad at Roxbury Community College. Local fabric artists, glassware artists, mixed media and other artists will have their works on display. The event is free and open to the public. Take the orange line to Roxbury Crossing.

Thanks to @DiscoverRoxury for the heads up on this!

Revels to host harbor cruise tonight

The Revels will host a Harbor Cruise and Sing this evening! Below is information from the Revels press release:

Enjoy a sunset cruise and “sing” around beautiful Boston Harbor, sipping your favorite spirits while singing ballads, sea songs and chanteys led by Revels music director George Emlen and musician and maritime music expert David Coffin who’ll also provide a humorous narrative about Boston Harbor and its islands.

Bring your best voices but the good news is: No Experience Required. Passengers will receive a free copy of “The Revels Book of Chanteys and Sea Songs” to use for the evening so you don’t even have to know the words!

Some of the songs we’ll be singing include “Cape Cod Girls”, “Haul Away, Joe”, “Pay Me My Money Down”, “Blow, Ye Winds, In the Morning”, and, of course - since alcohol may be purchased on board - we should likely expect a verse or two “What Shall We Do with the Drunken Sailor?” Passengers are encouraged to suggest or lead songs as well.

Boarding at Rowes Wharf begins at 6:30pm. Cruise & Sing from 7:00 - 9:00pm.
There is also a second cruise on Augst 10th . Tickets are available for purchase at www.revels.org or 617-972-8300 ext. 31. Tickets are $35 a piece.

94 Mass Ave is not closed

94 Mass Ave tweets today that they did not close, as was reported earlier. They had just closed to do some painting and to work on a new menu. They will likely reopen sometime this week. I wish 94 Mass Ave well with their new menu!

Thanks to BostonTweet for the heads up on this!

Lydia Shire tops list of "Badass Women Chefs in America"

Scampo and Towne Stove & Spirits chef Lydia Shire has been named the most baddass women chef in America by food/drink website The Daily Meal.

The original grande dame badass — a single mother with three kids by the age of 21, when she became the “salad girl” at one of Boston’s most venerable French restaurants, then took herself to a London cooking school, opened the Four Seasons Hotel dining room in L.A. (becoming the prestigious chain's first-ever female executive chef), then went home again to open her own joint, the award-winning BIBA.

This was all before she took over Locke Ober and helped open Excelsior, Scampo and Towne.

Coming in at number five was Boston chef Barbara Lynch.

Boston food truck schedule published

BostInnovation reports that the city has published the official schedule of when specific food trucks will be at each of the fifteen new food truck spots announced last week.

New Government Center Garage plan includes two hotels

The Boston Herald reports today that developer HYM Investment Group plans to redevelop the four acre Government Center Garage site near the Rose Kennedy Greenway with a seven building complex that will revitalize the surrounding neighborhood. The plan involves preserving part of the garage and building around it eight- and 45-story office buildings with 1.2 million square feet of space, two hotels (one 28 stories and the other 22, with a total of 600 rooms), three residential buildings (ranging in height from 12 to 38 stories) with 750 apartments and condos, and 50,000 square feet of retail space.

A previous plan presented by developer was opposed by neighbors as too large because it contained towers of 42 and 52 stories.

Boston is in need of more hotel rooms downtown to support the possible expansion of the Boston Convention & Exihibition Center.

Boston tourism numbers almost to prerecession levels

The Boston Globe reports today the number of visitors coming to Boston & Cambridge this year is projected to reach numbers seen before the recession.

After big drops in 2008 and 2009, Boston and Cambridge are attracting an increasing number of vacationers, and this year local tourism officials expect visitors to exceed the 20.8 million people who came to the region in 2007, just before the last recession began.

And next year should be even better, with the reopening of the Tea Party Ship and Museum and the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park, along with the bicentennials of the War of 1812 and The USS Constitution which will bring a fleet of Tall Ships to Boston over the week of July 4th.

Hotel concierges help to refute meanness study

After a recent national survey ranked Boston as the meanest city in the country, New England Cable News (NECN) reporter Greg Wayland went around the city today interviewing Bostonians and tourists about the findings of the study.

He found both residents of the city and tourists who disagreed with the results of the study.

"We had a great concierge at our hotel who just went over the top to make sure we were comfortable, found our way around, saw everything we needed to see, found good restaurants," said a California woman who was visiting the city.

Kudos to whatever hotel concierge assisted this lady and to all of those in the hospitality industry who do the same thing everyday to convey a positive image of the city to visitors and residents alike.

Borders seeks to be liquidated, meaning all stores could close

The Wall Street Journal tweets today that Borders will ask a judge on Thursday to approve a liquidation of the company beginning Friday, meaning that by September the entire company would be gone. This would mean that the only Boston location of Borders in Downtown Crossing would definitely be closed. It has been suggested that the city take over the operation of the bookstore and also a high end movie theater has looked at the site. Borders closed its other Boston store on Boylston Street in the Back Bay earlier this year.

Dore Creperie to offer crepe making classes

Dore Creperie, the recently opened pop up crepe restaurant at 1 Beacon Street, will begin offering crepe making classes this week. In each class students will have the opportunity to participate in a tasting journey through crepe history, learn how to make sweet and savory crepe batter, practice making crepes on Dore's authentic stones, and fill their crepes with an array of unique ingredients while experimenting with new crepe recipes. Whoever develops the tastiest crepe in the class will have the crepe named after them and it will featured be on the Dore menu for a week.

The classes will run Thursdays beginning July 21st at 6pm & 8pm at the restaurant. Pricing is $70 per person or $120 per couple. Registration can be done with the restaurant cashier or by emailing info@dorecreperie.com

Cambridge names Taxi Driver of the Year

Wicked Local Cambridge reports that Cambridge Taxi driver Evans Auguste was recently named the 2011 Cambridge Taxi Driver of the Year. From the press release cited in the article.

Auguste was nominated for the annual award by Robyn Culbertson, Executive Director of the Cambridge Office for Tourism. In her nomination form, Culbertson relayed a challenging experience she had on a rainy January day trying to find a cab that would accept credit cards. Robyn explained she had spoken to 14 cab drivers without finding one that would accept a credit card as payment. Then just as she was about to give up, Auguste chased her down in the rain offering his cab which accepted credit cards.

Perhaps Boston should establish such an award for its taxi drivers?

Hot Tomatoes returning to North End

Boston Restaurant Talk reports today that Hot Tomatoes is returning to the North End soon as a takeout spot. Called Hot Tomatoes Express, it will be located in the former Lyndell's Bakery space at 227 Hanover Street. Hot Tomatoes, formerly located on North Street, was the inspiration for the Upper Crust pizza chain.

Joshua Tree in Allston to become Barley Hall

Boston Restaurant Talk reported yesterday that the Joshua Tree restaurant and bar in Allston, which recently closed for renovations, will reopen with the name Barley Hall.

Patio for Parish Cafe in South End gets preliminary approval

South End Patch reported this week that the South End location of Parish Cafe received approval from the South End Landmarks Commission for a thirty seat patio along the Tremont Street side of the restaurant.

The setup would be similar, he said, to property on Boylston Street (presumably the original Parish Café or the Rattlesnake across the street, both of which have sidewalk seating and are owned by the same restaurateurs).

The patio idea was first proposed last year with the plan requiring the removal of two trees from the Tremont Street sidewalk. There's no word yet if the tree removal is still required.

Stella owner plans new South End restaurant

Stella owner Evan Deluty is planning to open a Latin-themed restaurant just down Washington Street reports the South End News this week. Deluty met with neighborhood residents at meeting on July 12th to talk about his preliminary plans for the spot, which would be located at the corner of Washington Street and West Newton Street.

Though Deluty was invited to do a simple "meet and greet," question-wielding abutters took the opportunity to voice their concerns on the new business.

Some asked questions about what kind of Latin-inspired dishes would be served, but more hard-pressed inquiries arose on the type of liquor license desired, how the trash would be handled and in which way the outdoor seating would be situated.

A restaurant in this spot would be a great addition to Washington Street and further enhance the area surrounding Blackstone Park. The spot has been vacant for a while now and it is encouraging to see an established restaurant owner possibly take over the space.

South End Patch also has excellent coverage of the new restaurant.

Appleton Cafe to reopen soon

Boston.com reported this week that the Appleton Cafe on the corner of Appleton Street and Clarendon Street in the South End should reopen in the next ten days under new ownership. The name has also been shortened to Appleton Cafe from the prior Appleton Bakery and Cafe.

The menu at Appleton will also see a change, with “fresher, healthier” options, according to Shea, as well as an upgraded our espresso machine. However, Appleton’s traditional staples, like its ever-popular morning glory muffin and the meatloaf sandwich will remain on its menu.

Hotel union protest trailer outside Hyatt draws complaint

Universal Hub reports that at least one person in Boston is fed up with the hotel union protest trailer that has been parked across the street from the Hyatt Regency Boston ever since the hotel let go of its entire housekeeping staff in 2009. The person who filed the complaint with the City of Boston sympathizes with the plight of the outsourced workers but also laments the trailer's lack of a proper permit display and its drain on the city's parking meter revenues.

Trillium will soon bring farmhouse beer to Fort Point

The Boston Herald reported last week on Trillium, the new brewery coming to the Fort Point Channel neighborhood. Last week Trillium received approval from the Boston Zoning Board of Appeals to open a brewery with a storefront and tasting room.

Trillium, named after a wildflower, will start out with four ale-style beers and four seasonal offerings based on traditional beers made in farmhouses in Belgium and France. The company plans to distribute the beers to retailers, bars and restaurants.

Former IMF head visits Tanglewood

Boston.com reports today that former head of the International Monetary Fund Dominique Strauss-Kahn is at Tanglewood this weekend to take in several performances. Strauss-Kahn recently pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting a maid at an upscale New York hotel.

Strauss-Kahn, who was recently released from house arrest, was in the audience at Ozawa Hall to hear violinist Nikolaj Znaider, and is expected to return tonight to watch Kurt Masur conduct the BSO and cellist Lynn Harrell.

The Salty Pig to open Saturday

The Salty Pig (130 Dartmouth Street) will open tomorrow at 4pm in the former Six Burner space opposite Back Bay Station.

Featuring a wide range of "salty pig parts" in the form of house-cured meats and small batch, hand selected cheeses, we designed The Salty Pig's menu to be mixed and matched to create personalized charcuterie boards. The local and European cheese selections and salty pig parts rotate frequently and we use fresh, locally grown seasonal ingredients to make our wood-grilled pizza, signature salads, sandwiches and entrees. (thesaltypig.com)

Stanley Cup makes restaurant tour

The Boston Herald's Inside Track reports today on a restaurant crawl that Boston Bruins president Cam Neely took with the Stanley Cup one night recently. The Cup hit up Towne in the Back Bay, Scampo at the Liberty Hotel, nebo in the North End, and then Noir at the Charles Hotel in Cambridge.

Slate Bar and Grill coming to Financial District

Boston Restaurant Talk reports that Slate Bar and Grill will soon be taking the former Brigham's space at 109 High Street. The Brigham's closed in November of 2009.

Globe columnist calls for bike ban in Boston

The Boston Globe's Brian McGrory calls for the city of Boston to ban bicycles from the city today.

Here’s the biggest problem with urban bicyclists: Their personalities. They exude a sense of superiority as they sip vitamin water amid an afternoon breeze while I, just for argument’s sake, may be tucking into a Filet-O-Fish in the sealed confines of my car, quickly abandoning hope of finding parking near my gym.

That superiority leads them to blast through red lights and stop signs with no hesitation, swerve into traffic with the entitled expectation that everyone else will screech to a halt, glide the wrong way down streets, across sidewalks, through pedestrian malls, constantly yelling, “Watch it, dude!’’

I would hope that he is just kidding with this column. His writing does not endear many people to the Boston Globe, at a time when newspapers in this town are under increasing pressure not to lose readership. I would encourage Mr. McGrory to take a ride along the Southwest Corridor Park, Castle Island, the Esplanade, or take one of UrbanAdventours bike tours of the city. He may then change his mind.

African Festival of Boston takes place Saturday at City Hall Plaza

The African Festival of Boston returns to City Hall Plaza tomorrow from 9am-8pm reports The Boston Globe.

A year later, the African Festival of Boston is back for its second edition, with longer hours and a strong roster of under-the-radar performers with roots from Senegal to Mozambique. If last year’s event is an indication, expect a strong turnout of area Africans and their families, many sporting traditional dress and waving national flags, alongside vendors, sightseers, world-music heads, and Peace Corps returnees.

Sweet Cheeks is now on Twitter

Sweet Cheeks, the barbecue restaurant coming soon to the Fenway neighborhood, is now on Twitter. You can follow Tifani Faison's new spot @sweetcheeksq.

Lovin' Spoonfuls profile

The Boston Herald reported Tuesday on how Ashley Stanley, the founder of local hunger relief organization Lovin' Spoonfuls, has collected nearly 40,000 meals in the first year of operation.

Stanley hits up restaurants, food distributors and grocery stores, which discard thousands of pounds of food weekly in order to make room on their shelves for new inventory. That unspoiled food is picked up and brought to those that need it.

Johnny Depp to play Paul Revere in upcoming movie

The Boston Herald's Inside Track reported yesterday the Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp has been tapped to play Paul Revere in a Disney movie to produced about the historical Boston figure and his role in the American Revolution.

Hopefully, the movie scribes won’t just rely on a Google search. There’s a lot of misinformation on the midnight ride on the interwebs thanks to telegenic tourist — and possible GOP White House wannabe — Sarah Palin, who took to Boston’s Freedom Trail last month and butchered our local lore.

Firebrand Saints to open soon

Boston Restaurant Talk reports today that Firebrand Saints, a new rotisserie and sandwich restaurant, is close to opening in Kendall Square. Kendall Square has seen several new restaurants open in the last several months including Area Four and Meadhall.

Boston Herald restaurant critic's last review runs tomorrow

The Boston Herald's restaurant review Mat Schaffer will review his last restaurant for paper tomorrow. He is one of four newsroom employees that the Herald recently approved voluntary buyouts for last week. Thanks to Chris Haynes, president of CBH Communications for the heads up on this.

William Shatner coming to Hyatt Cambridge

The Boston Herald's Inside Track reports today that William Shatner will be appearing at the Hyatt Regency Cambridge on Sunday at the Official Star Trek Convention.

Saint to close, then re-open as new club

The Herald's Inside Track reports today the nightclub Saint at the Copley Square Hotel will close July 24th and will reopen about a month later as a different club under the same ownership.

So say buh-bye to the $10,000 private memberships as well as the Heaven, Hell and Purgatory rooms where Hollywood A-Listers, All-Star jocks and retro rockers partied with Boston’s biggest hell-raisers over the years.

Lesser, that devil, wouldn’t divulge any deets about the new space until the old one shuts down, but he said hospitality and customer service will be key at the new club.

Revere Beach Sand Sculpting Festival underway

Sand sculptors are already hard at work at the annual Revere Beach National Sand Sculpting Festival which runs through this weekend reports The Boston Globe today. Organizers expect up to 125,000 people to visit the beach on Saturday, the day the winners are announced.

The sand artists hail from across the world. Several from Canada, one from Mexico, and a woman from Portugal are competing in the invite-only contest, which is free and open to the public. Several local artists are in contention as well, including two from Revere.

Food truck rollout to be gradual

Boston.com reported yesterday that on the day the city officially launched 15 new food truck locations, nine of the fifteen new trucks were not at their designated locations. This is for a variety of reasons, but mainly because getting a food truck rolling is not an easy thing. Not too worry though, most of trucks will be on the streets sooner rather than later.

Redbones, Somerville’s renowned barbeque restaurant, was also forecasting a launch next week.

“This is all new to us, we have never run a truck before,” said Joanne Contalbi, of the restaurant’s catering department.

Thank you to Universal Hub for the heads up on this!

Food trucks food safety highlighted by I-Team report

WBZ's I-Team reports today on health code violations at several of the city's popular food trucks. Fifteen new locations of food trucks will be rolled out today on the streets of Boston. The reports mentions that Clover, Momogoose and M&M Ribs have been cited for violations, but have all since made the required changes and are now up to code.

Grilled Cheese Nation gets a passing grade as city inspectors make the rounds to make sure there aren’t any roaches or rodents on board and that the food served up doesn’t make you sick.

The i-Team looked into inspection reports in the city over the past six months and found overall the trucks look pretty good, but some had serious violations.

It's good to see the I-Team tackling the important issue of food safety but I doubt the report is going to keep many people away from the trucks if they are hungry and don't want to spend a lot of money.

Governor's veto keeps Boston cigar bar ban decision intact

Governor Deval Patrick vetoed an amendment to the new state budget that would have allowed the state to overrule local health boards' decisions on whether to ban cigar bars in communities of more than 150,000 people reports The Boston Globe today. The amendment was sponsored by two North End Legislators, Representative Aaron Michelwitz and Senator Anthony Petrucelli. The issue is a contentious one that has engendered a vigorous debate among proponents and opponents of the ban. It's critical to remember that a 2004 law banning smoking in bars and restaurants statewide excluded cigar and hookah bars. By regulation passed in 2008, cigar bars have to close by 2018, though there is a possible ten year extension period that could be granted.

Chipotle coming to historic building on The Freedom Trail

The Boston Globe reports today that Chipolte will soon open its second Boston location in the ground floor of the historic Old Corner Bookstore, Boston's oldest commercial building, located at the corner of School Street and Washington Streets. The building, which has seen many uses, is currently owned by preservation group Historic Boston Inc.

The building’s heyday was in the mid-19th century, when the presence of Ticknor & Fields made the property a gathering place for authors such as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Charles Dickens, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. The publisher churned out the first editions of many of their most celebrated works.

The presses also printed the Atlantic Monthly magazine, and the building itself anchored a corner of the city’s old Newspaper Row, on Washington Street, which The Boston Globe, the now-defunct Boston Post, and other publications called home.

There is a Boloco just several doors up School Street so people walking The Freedom Trail, along with local workers and shoppers, will now have another quick lunch option. Money from this lease will also allow the building owner to continue its preservation mission across the city.

15 new Food Truck locations to debut tomorrow

The City of Boston and Mayor Thomas Menino announced today that 15 new locations for food trucks will officially open tomorrow with a roster of food trucks rotating through the spots. The roster of trucks includes Lincoln Street Coffee on the G0, Go Fish, Roxy’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese, The Cupcakory, Redbones BBQ, Mobile Home, Savory Food, Staff Meal,The Dining Car, Grilled Cheese Nation – 2 Trucks: “Minnie” and “Cheese Force One, Kick*ss Cupcakes, The Froyo Truck, Clover Fast Food, Bon Me, and Pennypack. Each food truck will offer one healthy option on its menu that does not include fried foods, trans- fats, or high fructose corn syrup.

Boston’s Food Truck program, unlike in other cities, has designated permanent spots on city streets where food truck vendors can apply to operate. The Food Trucks will serve a variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner foods from 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. (with a 9:00 p.m. closing time in some neighborhoods.)

These trucks will be located in Back Bay, Bay Village, South End, Fenway, Kenmore/BU, Dorchester, Boston Marine Industrial Park/South Boston Waterfront, and the Charlestown Navy Yard. For a complete map of all the approved food truck locations in Boston click here. The city is also seeking more food trucks for additional locations still available.

Fort Point brewery approved by City

Universal Hub tweets that the Boston Zoning Board today approved Trillium Brewing Company's planned brewery at 369 Congress Street in the Fort Point neighborhood of Boston. The brewery's planned yearly output is 1000 barrels of beer.

Jacky's Bistro to become Petit Robert Bistro

Boston Restaurant Talk reports today that Jacky's Table in Brighton (1414 Commowealth Avenue) is going to change its name to Petit Robert Bistro on July 14th, Bastille Day.

Jacky's Table first opened in June of 2010 under the name Chez Jacky, with the name change to Jacky's Table occurring about two months later.

Other Petit Robert Bistros can be found in the South End, Kenmore Square, and Needham.

Mayor Menino celebrates anniversary

Today is the 18th anniversary of Boston Mayor Tom Menino's rise to become the Mayor of Boston reports WBZ Radio. On July 12th, 1993 he was appointed acting Mayor when then Mayor Ray Flynn gave his notice that he was leaving to become US Ambassador to the Vatican for President Clinton. Mayor Menino has been and continues to be a big supporter of Boston's hospitality and tourism industry. Thank you Mayor Menino and congratulations.

Forum to open Wednesday

This past Friday I had the pleasure of attending a preview dinner for new Back Bay restaurant Forum, located in the former Vox Populi spot at 755 Boylston Street. Upon walking in the first thing I noticed was that the bar has been relocated away from the right wall to the center of first floor. The oval shaped bar is chic and modern in appearance with multiple televisions overhead. The cocktail list is extensive with interesting names such as Suffolk County Smash among others.

Upstairs we were seated next to the Boylston Street facing windows and the feeling couldn't be more different from Vox. To begin with some of the tables are where the upstairs bar once was. I loved the view of the dining room from our table and also the grand view you have onto the activity of Boylston Street below. Almost at the same height as diners at the Mandarin's L'Espalier and Sel de la Terre across the street allowing you to peer into their dining experiences. The food did not disappoint as well. The bread came with three kinds of dipping options, a sweet butter, a bean dip, and a spicy oil dip. I tried several of appetizers including the spicy tuna tartare, the scallops cerviche, and the paella. However I was blown away by the BLT Soup. It is a creamy tomato soap with bacon bits mixed in topped with a dollop of creamed lettuce puree (similar in appearance to guacamole but with a much more airy texture). The soup was so good I asked for extra bread to enjoy every last bit of it. For the entree course I had the scallops which were perfectly cooked and placed above a tasty sauce that included corn and chorizo. We also shared our dessert plates, the most memorable being the one containing almond ice cream.

Forum is set to open Wednesday at 5pm and is operated by the group also behind Noche in the South End, The Federal in Beacon Hill, and The Tap in Fanieuil Hall.

Joanne Chang to appear at farmers market today

Flour Bakery and Myers & Chang owner Joanne Chang will be at the Dewey Square farmers market today from 12-1:30pm to sign copies of her Flour cookbook. The market is located near South Station on the Rose Kennedy Greenway.

Bill Russell statue to be located at City Hall Plaza

Boston.com reports today that the Bill Russell statue, first proposed by President Obama in February, will be located on City Hall Plaza near Congress Street, not far from Planet Fitness. Three artists will compete to design the statue which will be revealed next spring.

Russell’s basketball success -- in 1964, Russell was part of the NBA’s first all-black starting five, along with Sam Jones, K.C. Jones, Willie Naulls, and Tom “Satch” Sanders -- was matched by his leadership off the court.

He was at the National Mall in Washington in 1963 for the Rev. Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Dream” speech, the Globe reported earlier this year. Russell refused to play in games held in cities where his teammates faced discrimination, and he became the first black coach in the NBA when he took over the Celtics in 1966.

Jon Crellin heading to Boston Harbor Hotel

The Boston Courant reports in its July 8th edition that former Fairmont Copley Plaza general manager Jon Crellin will return to Boston become the managing director at the Boston Harbor Hotel later this month. Crellin has been the general manager of the Fairmont Hamilton Princess hotel in Bermuda for the past five years.

"The hotel industry has seen both evolutionary and cataclysmic changes over the years," Crellin tells The Courant. "Successful hoteliers understand that such basics as service, attitude and quality never change."

MBTA looks to sell station naming rights

The Boston Business Journal reports today that the MBTA is seriously exploring selling naming rights for its stations. The naming rights proposal would require that any corporate names be blended with the existing station names.

According to a request for proposals published on the website of MBTA real estate arm Transit Realty, the T is accepting bids for “naming rights consulting services” - a two-year contract “to assist in the monetization of the Naming Rights potential of the MBTA’s assets.”

The T hopes the naming rights proposal could bring as much as $150 million to the cash strapped transit agency.
Thanks to @universalhub for the heads up on this!

Avery Bar review

MC Slim JB reviews the recently opened Avery Bar at The Ritz Carlton for Stuff Magazine.

Hotel bars occupy a special place in the life of a city, serving as versatile venues for all sorts of encounters. You're probably not going to settle into one for the course of an evening as you might at your local pub or favorite craft-cocktail bar, but they are useful rendezvous points for grabbing a pop and a snack before heading somewhere else, and good spots for a nightcap and something sweet at the end of an evening. The bar at any Ritz-Carlton hotel combines several elements that magnify its usefulness as such: a great central location, a tony clientele, and a reputation for swankiness so storied it inspired the term "ritzy."

Blue Inc to open tonight

Grubstreet Boston reports that Blue Inc is definitely opening tonight. The restaurant, from chef Jason Santos (of Hell's Kitchen and Gargoyles) is opening in the former Lobby spot on Broad Street near the Rose Kennedy Greenway.

Martha's Vineyard town could lose dry status

The Boston Herald reports today that the town of West Tisbury could soon authorize the sale of beer and wine at restaurants in the long time dry town on Martha's Vineyard. If the state approves, the proposed change could be voted on by town residents at their annual town meeting.

Greenway fountains bring life to park, city

The Boston Globe reported yesterday on the positive impact the fountains of the Rose Kennedy Greenway have had on the park area and the psyche of the city in general.

From a vantage at the stone benches near the fountain’s edge, where jets of water leap into the air in ever-changing patterns before drifting down in a cooling mist, the city felt brand new.

Families were there. It was a romantic backdrop for hand-holding couples, a soothing retreat for even the most harried, head-down urbanites. When a chorus of screams erupted from children playing in the water, even drivers stuck at the nearby traffic light could not help but grin.

Herald approves buyout for its restaurant critic

The Boston Globe reports today that the Boston Herald has approved voluntary buyout packages for several of its newsroom employees, including arts editor Larry Katz and food reviewer Mat Schaeffer.

Last month, the Herald offered voluntary buyouts to all 385 employees, who had until July 1 to apply. Members of the Newspaper Guild of Greater Boston, the union that represents Herald newsroom employees, were offered severance of two weeks of salary for every year of service. Employees approved for a buyout would leave the paper by July 15.

I always enjoyed reading Mr. Schaeffer's work. I hope this does not mean the Boston Herald will stop reviewing restaurants.

Ted to film Saturday at Hatch Shell with Norah Jones

Ted, the Seth MacFarlane directed movie starring Mark Walhberg and Mila Kunis, will film a concert scene tomorrow evening at the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. Performing will be Grammy Award winning singer Norah Jones. Extras are needed for the shooting, which will take place between 7pm and 3am. Ted has been filming around Boston for the past several months with scenes being shot at various locations including Charlie's Sandwiche Shoppe, The Midtown Hotel, Lucky's Lounge, Davis Square, The New England Aquarium and Gaslight in the South End.

Hyatt to host Special Olympics fundraiser

Boston.com reports that the Hyatt Regency Boston will host a fund raising event on July 22nd and 23rd in which 100 participants will rappel 22 stories down the side of the hotel to raise money for the Special Olympics.

Wearing industrial harnesses, these fearless philanthropists will rappel down the building at One Avenue de Lafayette, each raising at least $1,000 to support the organization. They will descend from 1 – 4 p.m. on July 22 and 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on July 23.

The fundraiser was made possible through a collaboration between the nonprofit organization, the hotel, the Downtown Boston Business Improvement District, and Over the Edge, a Canadian special events company that organizes rappelling adventures for nonprofits across the country.

Mandarin condo goes for a record $13.2 million

The Boston Globe and The Boston Herald report today that a penthouse condominium at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel & Residences in the Back Bay has sold for $13.2 million, the highest price ever paid for a condominium in the city. And it hasn't ever been built out or lived in since the Mandarin opened in 2008.
From the Herald:

The biggest sale — at $13.2 million — was an 8,000-square-foot penthouse with four garage parking spaces and 3,000 square feet of terraces. This 14th floor residence has floor-to-ceiling windows and a 360-degree view of the Boston skyline, Cambridge and the Charles River.

From the Globe:

And living at the Mandarin brings resort-level amenities, including a chef and a spa, and concierge and housekeeping services. Mandarin Oriental, which owns and operates luxury hotels around the world, also provides upkeep and maintenance of common areas.

The Mandarin Oriental opened in 2008 with 50 condos on its upper floors - all of which were sold or under agreement before construction was complete. It is home to many of Boston’s boldface names, including car-dealer Herb Chambers and Celtics part-owner Robert Epstein.

Boston Landmarks Orchestra free concert series begins tonight at Hatch Shell

The Boston Landmarks Orchestra begins its annual free summer series of concerts tonight at 7pm at the Hatch Shell on the Charles River Esplanade. Tonight's program is entitled Heavenly Mozart and includes Mozart's Magic Flute Overture, Exsultate jubilate, and his Mass in C Minor. The concert will feature the talents of soprano Kristen Watson, soprano Dominique Labelle, tenor Ryan Turner, and bass Robert Honeysucker in collaboration with the New World Chorale, Holly Krafka, Director. The free concerts series continues every Wednesday evening until August 13th.

Last week The Boston Globe reported on how the orchestra is continuing on after the passing of its founder Charles Ansbacher last September. New director Christopher Wilkins is now spearheading the vision that Ansbacher so powerfully personified.

He recognizes the challenges, but explained that, unlike most other orchestras in the country, there is no need to agonize about or rethink Landmarks’ core mission. “I think we’re very clear about what we are: We believe in great music and the greatest possible access for all citizens.’’ And access, he continued, means not just putting on free concerts. “Free is great, and it’s a beautiful symbol and a wonderful gift to the city. But we need to be proactive in engaging all of Greater Boston.’’

Today in celebration of the opening night of series, every $10 you donate to the Boston Landmarks Orchestra via text will be matched 9 to 1 by the Free for All Concert Fund! Visit landmarksorchestra.org for more information.

How to get the most from your hotel concierge

USA Today has an excellent article today on how hotel guests can better utilize the services of the concierge during their stay. The article makes many valid points, especially the ones about contacting the concierge before you arrive and knowing a bit about what you like to do before looking for suggestions.

Guests should not simply ask, "What should I do today?"

"When people open up about their personal interests, then we can find things that suit them," Battaglia says.

Concierges encourage guests to contact them anywhere from a few days to a few weeks prior to arrival to start planning. Don't show up at 7 p.m. and ask for an 8 p.m. table at the hot new restaurant. With advance notice, Baker says, "if for some reason we can't get you in, we have so many other options lined up that we'll be able to get something scheduled that you do love."

This article is very timely as comes out as the international Les Clefs d'Or Congress of the top concierges in North America meets in Boston this week.




Thanks to @HotelCommonwealth for the heads up on this!

Adam Sandler movie filming at Fairmont Copley Plaza

The Adam Sandler movie "I Hate You, Dad" is filming at The Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel tonight, reports onlocationvacations.com. The scene they are filming involves Adam Sandler's stunt double jumping from the sixth floor. They have also recreated the front desk of the hotel in a part of the lobby adjacent to where the actual guests check in. I can only wonder if Fairmont Copley Canine Ambassador Catie Copley will get a cameo? The Fairmont Copley Plaza has been the backdrop for several other movies shot in Boston, including The Firm and Bride Wars.

CBS alters Boston's fireworks broadcast to showcase local landmarks.

Boston.com reports today that CBS did indeed alter images of the Fourth of July fireworks display broadcast this week to make it appear that fireworks were shooting off behind Fenway Park, the State House and Faneuil Hall Marketplace, something physically impossible given the location of fireworks barge. Despite no comments from broadcaster CBS, the show's executive producer Boston philanthropist David Mugar was very open about what was done.

Mugar said the added images were above board because the show was entertainment and not news. He said it was no different than TV drama producer David E. Kelley using scenes from his native Boston in his show “Boston Legal’’ but shooting the bulk of each episode on a studio set in Hollywood.

“Absolutely, we’re proud to show scenes from our city,’’ Mugar said. “It’s often only shown in film or in sporting matches. We were able to highlight great places in Boston, historical places with direct ties to the Fourth. So we think it was a good thing.’’

Some however, like Florida media critic Eric Deggans, say the altering of live broadcast could call into question the credibility of CBS.

“It is an ethical issue, and to say it’s not because the show was aired through CBS Entertainment is to imply that the entertainment side of CBS has no ethics,’’ Deggans said. “I think - especially in today’s media environment - the most important commandment for media is to not mislead the viewer. . . . If you’re a viewer who doesn’t know Boston, you’re getting a picture of the layout of the city that doesn’t exist.’’

I'm not sure where I come down on this as the show is great exposure for Boston to the rest of the country, however it would great if the producers and CBS were as dedicated to broadcasting the entire concert to the nation as they are to altering the fireworks display to highlight Boston landmarks. The Boston Pops stands for itself as a representation of the city and should be allowed to be showcased to the entire country for more than thirty minutes.

Joshua Tree in Allston closes for renovations

Boston.com reports today that The Joshua Tree bar/restaurant in Allston is now closed for renovations which should last four-six weeks. The restaurant plans to reopen in mid August.

The employee, who asked not to be identified further, said there will be new televisions, a new menu and a new kitchen, but the bar's owner and capacity will not change. The restaurant is currently in the process of hiring a new general manager, he said.

Thanks to @universalhub for the heads up this!

Dig previews proposed Fort Point brewery

The Weekly Dig has a preview of the Trillium Brewing Company brewery proposed for the Fort Point neighborhood of Boston, complete with image renderings of the building.

Trillium will be a proper farmhouse brewery, says Tetreault. He plans on starting a hop farm, using barley from local farmers through the Valley Malt malthouse, and incorporating seasonal ingredients in all of their beers

Trillium has a July 12th hearing before the City's Zoning Board of Appeals to determine if they can proceed with the proposed brewery. Letters of support for the proposed brewery, which could help them immensely at the hearing, can be sent to jc@ trilliumbrewing.com

Ming Tsai and Todd English coming to Prudential Center this weekend

Celebrity chefs Todd English and Ming Tsai will be at the Prudential Center this Saturday and Sunday as part of the Macy's Culinary Council Food Truck Tour. The Macy's Food Truck will be at the Prudential Plaza on Boylston Street with Ming Tsai on Saturday from 11am-3pm and on Sunday with Todd English from 12pm-4pm. From Macy's first ever food truck, the chefs will cook up free gourmet cuisine to serve at curbside. Donations will be accepted at the trucks to benefit Feeding America, the nation's largest domestic hunger relief group. For every dollar donated, seven meals can be provided to the hungry.

Second Boston location of Smith and Wollensky to open in August

Smith and Wollensky is eyeing an August opening for its location at the new Atlantic Wharf complex along Boston's waterfront. This location, the second for Smith and Wollensky in Boston, will feature an extensive outdoor dining and bar area overlooking the Fort Point Channel. The Atlantic Wharf complex, which is being developed by Prudential Center and Hancock Tower owner Boston Properties, will include offices, loft styles residences, a new home for the Boston Society of Architects, and a restaurant called Trade by celebrity chef Jody Adams.

Naked Pizza eyes JP for next Boston location

Universal Hub reports that Naked Pizza, which has locations in Brookline and Brighton, is eyeing Jamaica Plain as a possible spot for its next Boston shop.

Boston-Tel Aviv direct flight push gains momentum

Universal Hub reports on a campaign to bring direct flights between Boston and Israel is gaining momentum. A group advocating for direct service now has a Facebook page highlighting their cause. A push for a direct Boston-Tel Aviv flight was made by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick on a recent trade mission to Israel. It was also recently announced that Boston will have a direct flight to Tokyo beginning next spring.

Top hotel concierges meeting in Boston this week

The Boston Globe today reports today on the international Les Clefs d'Or conference taking place in Boston this week. Three hundred of the world' best hotel concierges will gather at an interesting time in profession's history.

In a world overflowing with information about restaurants, walking tours, and shoe stores, the hotel concierge is a throwback to a simpler time. Some say smart phones and Wi-Fi are making concierges less relevant, and some hotels have even created digital concierges via YouTube videos, iPhone apps, and online chats.

But for the 300 members of the elite concierge association Les Clefs d’Or (“keys of gold’’ in French) gathering in Boston tomorrow, the human touch is more important than ever. Concierges filter the information overload online and deliver customer service that computers cannot, like finding a dentist in the middle of the night or filling a bathtub with champagne.

The article also explores the fact that younger guests may be less likely to use a concierge because of their increased familiarization with technology. However technology has its limits.

But an app cannot pull off the perfect marriage proposal. A few years ago, Goff, 31, set the stage in the glass pavilion behind the Boston Harbor Hotel with $5,000 worth of orchids and white roses, candles in hurricane vases, and rose petals. He arranged for a limo stocked with champagne and dinner at Tresca in the North End. When the groom-to-be popped the question, Goff was there taking pictures.

Tourists soak up Fouth of July in Boston

The Boston Globe reports today on how visitors to Boston enjoyed celebrating the Fourth of July holiday where it all began.

“Here, I feel more connected to the holiday as Independence Day, as opposed to the Fourth of July,’’ Galli said. “I feel like I’m more in touch with the history and the reason for the celebration. In Jersey, July Fourth is a picnic.’’

Meekin and Galli, who brought their children on their trip, have watched the Boston Pops Independence Day concert on the television for years. They decided this would be the year to see the festivities live.

The Globe also reports on how thousands enjoyed the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular at the Esplanade last night.

“Just unbelievable,’’ said Rick Keith, 59, a tourist from Winter Park, Fla., who spent much of the show mouthing the word “Wow,’’ marveling at a scene that was never this vivid or dramatic on his TV at home.

“Now I have to come back. . . . This is just phenomenal, the atmosphere, the historical significance.’’

One arrest in stabbing near Back Bay hotels

Universal Hub reports today that a Lynn man was arrested today in connection with a double stabbing on Huntington Avenue near several Back Bay hotels after the fireworks last night. It turns out that the stabbing occurred further down Huntington Avenue, though where is not specified in the report. One of the victims, who is in critical condition, fell out of the cab at corner of Huntington Avenue and Harcourt where police responded.

Blue Inc to open this week, The Salty Pig to follow next week

Grubstreet Boston reported last week that The Salty Pig (from the group behind Coda & Canary Square) is set to open next Wednesday July 13th. It will be on Dartmouth Street in the former Six Burner spot opposite Copley Place. In addition, Blue Inc, from Jason Santos is set to open on the Rose Kennedy Greenway on Friday. Both restaurants sound very exciting!
Thanks to Boston Restaurant Talk for the update on The Salty Pig.

Cakeology returns to Food Network next week

Cakeology, set to open later this month at 45 Province Street in Downtown Crossing, reports on its blog that the company will appear again on the Food Network's Cupcake Wars show next Tuesday July 12th at 8pm.

Stabbing near Back Bay hotels tonight

Universal Hub reports that one person was stabbed in the back and one person was slashed in the face shortly after the fireworks in Boston last evening outside 116 Huntington Avenue, near the corner of Harcourt Avenue. This is just across the street from the Marriott Copley hotel and a short walk from the Colonnade and Copley Square Hotels. Lucca Back Bay also occupies the ground level of the 116 Huntington building. Police captured three suspects in the South End a short time later at the corner of West Newton and Tremont Street.

Gordon Ramsay to return to Davide this Tuesday

Gordon Ramsey of Fox's Kitchen Nightmares will return to Davide in the North End today for a taping of the show in which he checks in on how they are doing after his initial makeover of the restaurant earlier this year. This original episode aired in February and the episode filmed today will air in the fall.

Pedicab company markets tours through new Groupon concept

Boston Pedicab is one of many small businesses using a new online discount coupon program from Groupon called Groupon Now reports The Boston Herald today. Boston Pedicab general manager Justin Bruce tells the Herald about the reasoning behind the move, which markets the company's tours.

He recently turned to an alternative, Groupon Now, which allows bargain hunters to shop for deals in their area that they can immediately use. He doesn’t get the wide exposure provided by a traditional Groupon offer or other discount sites, but he has a better chance of getting traffic during slow times.

"MBTA Musical review

The Boston Herald reviewed ImprovBoston's hilarious new show "MBTA Musical" yesterday. I can't wait to see it.

It’s clear that everyone on stage is having a good time, and the mood is infectious. “T” is brimming with jokes that are likely to elicit at least a chuckle, and often a full-out guffaw, from anyone who has ever suffered under the yolk of our fair public transportation system — in other words, everyone in the audience.

Inside look at the largest cruise ship to visit Boston

The Boston Globe has an up close look today at how the 2,200 passenger cruise ship Norwegian Dawn spends its time in Boston during its weekly port of call at the newly renovated Black Falcon Cruise Terminal.

The few hours that Norwegian Dawn is docked here are crunch time for the ship’s 1,073 crew members, providing a glimpse of what it takes to succeed in one of the fastest growing segments of the state’s tourism industry. Over the course of a season that stretches from April to October, some 16 cruise lines carrying more than 300,000 passengers stop in Boston, pumping more than $22 million into the local economy. Making it all happen is an international cast of sailors, hoteliers, chefs, kitchen workers, housekeepers, and more.

Next year Carnival Cruises will begin cruising from Boston to Canada with a 3,000 passenger ship.

Flour will be closed on July 4th

Joanne Chang tweets today that all Flour Bakery locations (South End, Fort Point, and Central Square) as well as Myers & Chang will be closed on Monday July 4th. The South End Flour location on Washington Street will be closed all next week for renovations as well.

James Taylor shows at Tanglewood boost the BSO

The Boston Globe today calls James Taylor a "guardian angel" of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. This will mark Taylor's 5th year of doing Fourth of July weekend shows at the BSO's summer home. Every year he draws thousands to the hallowed grounds, bringing millions in revenue to the Symphony, which is especially welcome in these times.

Serving as patron saint to a classical-music enterprise may be an unexpected role for a self-described troubadour. But Taylor, now 63, makes his home in the Berkshires, and understands that the BSO is the anchor for a regionwide community of artistic enterprises.