Sure, everyone loves to hear about hot new restaurants, but equally intriguing are sleepers – those lesser-known gems that folks in-the-know like to keep to themselves in order to keep the crowds at bay. Whether it’s a cozy little corner, an out-of-the-way swingin’ spot or just a friendly place with fantastic food, the sleepers on the following list can help rouse you out of the dining doldrums.
On the list: Shanti
319 Western Ave., Cambridge; 617-576-6672
Some places may get by on their good looks, but this Central Square Italian certainly doesn’t – and who cares because it serves “out-of-this-world pasta,” panini, thin-crust pizza and big sandwiches proffered by the nice-guy chef-owner.
1721C Washington St.; 617-447-2183
Nothing is lost in translation at this sushi bar on Washington Street offering maki, sashimi, nigiri and cheap tabs (for the South End); its adjoining wine shop is convenient for BYO.
1111 Dorchester Ave.; 617-929-3900
It’s all shanti (peace), love and happiness at this date-friendly, dimly lit Dorchester Indian, which also features Bangladeshi and Pakistani dishes and a wonderful welcome.
690A Washington St., Brookline; 617-277-8221
It’s not faster than a speeding bullet, but this smaller-than-a-shoebox Brookline Asian fusioner, whose owner was a chef at FuGaKyu, is a super deal just the same.
121 Exchange St., Malden; 781-321-5559
Remember when you wished there were a jewel of a French-Italian restaurant just a short walk from the Malden T stop, where the chef-owner personally prepares your meal from a regularly changing menu? Well, it’s actually been here for years, so go ahead and make a reservation.
– Jeff Freier