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.

This is such a beautiful restaurant, with elegant tables, an open kitchen and a fireplace. There's a bit of faux exposed brick and decoration, and I can guarantee that there isn't a bad seat in the house. Anywhere you sit would be a great spot. I was greeted by this tiny little girl, who offered me a menu and graciously asked me where I would like to sit. She knew the ropes, young as she was, and gave me the sweetest smile as she ran around the restaurant to find me a table. There were plenty of adults to assist, of course. Charming place with a lot of character. Try their Latin breakfasts. Pork rind with corn cake for $2.50, fried cheese ball ($1) or Colombian Sausage ($2.50). Maybe you're after some Red Snapper ($15) or Flank Steak ($11). They also serve roasted chicken and burgers.

Your basic Dunkin' Donuts, nothing too surprising here.

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.

A neighborhood essential, this is a tiny little joint attached to a convenience store. You get into a cafeteria-type of line with your tray, order, pay, then sit down and play Keno with the rest of the Easties. Greatest Steak and Cheese ($6.50) or Chicken Parm ($10.50) of your life, and you can get a glass of cheap red wine to boot. Call ahead for take out, no delivery. This merchant is a participant in the Boston Community Changeprogram, which donates a portion of your purchase to a charity of your choice.

Quirky little diner with a Disney-themed mural on the wall. People especially love the dinosaur. Very casual and a great place to go when you need your comfort food. The only crazy thing about this place, is that there are no stalls in the bathroom, just two toilets side by side with no divider. I suppose that's perfect if you need to bring a friend and hold their hand, but otherwise is rather strange. Other than that, this place is the bees knees. Breakfast is served all day, prices are reasonable, and you should definitely pick this place rather than Denny's or IHOP. Donna herself is there to take your order, and her kids might be helping out as well. Try the banana pancakes.

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Tiny little pupuseria sporting all of the usuals - huevos ($6), typical plates, burritos ($5), tacos ($1.75), pupusas ($1.50 each) and more. Treat yourself to some Whole Fried Bass, which goes for ($11), and some Salvadoran chocolate ($2).

A great bakery for the commuter crowd, this place is open early. The smell of fresh baked goods wafts through the neighborhood. Try the Empinadas (hand held meat pie) for a snack anytime.