Boston Tea Stop

I spent many years in and around Boston. Not because I went to school at Harvard or MIT (although sometimes it feels like I have) but because I spent 4-5 years of my life as a college recruiter for an Investment Bank. Boston, Chicago, Philly, New Hampshire, and Montreal were some of my regular destinations.

As you’ve probably guessed I adore tea so I automatically look for a great tea spot wherever I am - lucky for me Boston is FILLED with tea cafes. Boston Tea Stop just happens to be my favorite so here’s my review. Ask any local college kid walking around - they’ve got the best bubble tea ( or ‘boba’  as its called) in the neighborhood. Way better than Lollicup. Its also really conveniently located in Harvard Square.

The taro slush is great and the black tea with rose flower and lychee jelly is a deliciously different beverage but perhaps my personal favorite is the hot green apple tea. Its sooooo gooood and perfect when you’re wandering around the area in early December waiting for your Internship presentation begins. They also serve dumplings (which I haven’t had) and mochi ice cream (which I have had).

In summation: if you love tea and/or bubble tea, and you’re in Boston. GO HERE!

54 JFK STREET
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 945-0017

Eating my Mantra

I’ve been to a lot of restaurants in Boston but the one that sticks out the most is Mantra. It has a French- Indian theme but likes to focus on New England ingredients. Confusing? Not really - its actually pretty delicious.

Positives: Out of all the food fusions in the world, French-Indian has to be one of my favorites. The cumin dusted Long Island duck breast is delightful; as is the goat cheese and potato tikki. I rather enjoy the atmosphere which is sexy without being too dark (unless I’m dining at Dans Le Noir I do NOT like eating in the dark). Its also conveniently located between the Theater District and the Downtown Crossing.

 Negatives: I dont know if its just me (and please correct me if you think otherwise) but I always get a ‘corporate’ feel when I walk into Mantra. Now, this probably has to do with the fact that I use to throw events here when I worked for Morgan Stanley…but I don’t know…maybe it has some validity. This place also tends to be a little too trendy for my liking and can be swarmed with college kids…but thats anywhere in Boston right? 

 
Mantra
52 Temple Pl
Boston, MA 02111-1332
(617) 542-8111
http://www.mantrarestaurant.com/