Co-owners Mel and Tom opened this East Boston gem using recycled salvaged product from the old building which was formerly the home of Aronson's Dry Goods. The duo successfully modernized the spot with solar lighting and heat while preserving the charm of the up-and-coming neighborhood. Designed to showcase the work of local painters, scultors and poets, 303 Cafe offers breakfast, lunch and dinner with vegan offerings as well as Columbian-inspired musts like their authentic empanada ($3) and pastelle ($4) coupled with a tasty chorizo-encrusted salmon ($13) and a yummy blood orange chicken picatta ($13.50). 303 Cafe is a beacon of light that should re-energize East Boston's dining scene.

Old school bakery that makes fresh bread daily. The only thing they don't make themselves is the sfogliatelle. Everything in that place seems to cost just $0.25 cents, which is totally cool. They also make a good cannoli.

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There's not much in the immediate area along the lines of small sit-down restaurants. I wouldn't say it's worth making a special trip for this cafe-style joint, but it's a decent place and they don't mind if you bring the kids. Reasonable prices, good food, and busy on the weekends. Beer and wine available.

The enjoyably chaotic atmosphere is the closest you might be able come to a classic Mexican taqueria - loud music, cramped environment (just 10 seats), high energy and quick, good food. Pupusas ($1.50), Tacos ($1.50 ea), Chicken Platter ($8.50), or the Mountain Man Platter - the most expensive item on the menu ($10.50) reserved for the only most macho among us. Recently featured as one of the best tacos in Boston by the Boston Globe: "The carne asada taco starts as a double layer of soft, warm corn tortillas stuff ed with the best part of a grilled steak - the smoky, salty crust. The lightly charred meat is incredibly moist and comes adorned with the bare minimum of toppings: a spoonful of fresh onions, cilantro, and tomato sauce"

Owners Miles and Joyce serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and provide personalized friendly service. Over 20 flavors of ice cream available. This place used to be American Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop.

Your basic Dunkin' Donuts, nothing too surprising here.

This is your usual greasy neighborhood chinese joint. Nothing out of the usual here - PuPu Platter ($17), Lo Mein, Curry, Sweet and Sour, Szechuan, Combination Plates. Credit card for counter purchases only.

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