The Everyday Joe

Buff's Pub, 317 Washington St., Newton, MA

Across from the Crown Plaza and some office buildings, there isn't anything that special about Buff's.  But the food is good, and instead of going through the madness of the MASS-Pike, it's worth it to shoot over and grab a quick bite.

The locals seem to like it - it was packed from 5.30 until I left, and everyone seemed to know each other - and the food is good, but there are two things about the place that almost made me pass on a review:  they only take cash, and the attitude is kind of cold.

The service was fast though, so if you don't care to have anyone really give two hoots that you are alive, Buff's will fill the bill.  And remember to stop at the ATM next door before they present a bill to you.

Sea Witch Restaurant and Oyster Bar, Rt 1 North, Peabody, MA

Since I stopped in for lunch, I didn't go too crazy at the Sea Witch, opting for the fish and chips and a half dozen oysters on the half shell.   But the meal was great, the atmosphere very old school New England fish house, and the service good.

The strange man who decided to sit in the next booth past mine, facing me, in an otherwise empty restaurant (I get up early and often eat lunch around 11 - 11.30 to beat the rush, or wait until later for the same reason) made the experience a bit surreal.  

Fish House and Grill, 184 Cambridge St., Burlington, MA

In a strip mall, behind a gas station, is a nice place to get a quick lunch or dinner.  Not cheap, but not expensive either, the Fish House and Grill has some good things going for it.

The first is selection - a wide variety of fish, fresh lobster, the ubiquitous steak tips of New England - no iced tea, which is always a disappointment - and a casual atmosphere.

I had the swordfish and steak tips, with rice and sauteed snow peas.  It was all good, served hot and fast, and while it's pretty no frils on the service end - order at the counter and they bring it to you at the table - it was a good, filling dinner for about 20 bucks.

Hilltop Steakhouse, US Rte 1 South, Saugus, MA

It has a gaudy sign.  It's 'famous'.  It's massive.  And it's got a good steak.

Hilltop Steakhouse has had it's tumult over the years, and some people I asked told me it's not what it used to be (but getting better all the time), but if you are North of Boston, stop in for a really good steak, a hearty salad, and some great service.