Well, here I am -- the Pal of Fat Guy who's been lured into speaking her mind on said subject. Unfortunately, the number of inexpensive restaurants in Boston is not as high as I would like it to be. It seems that the high-end places are just as expensive as New York City's finest, and the lower-end places are often reduced to take-out-only operations. In other words, there ain't a lot of satisfying middle ground. That said, here's what I like that won't break your bank: For Barbeque, there is Red Bones in Somerville. This is a funky and fun restaurant with good bbq ribs, chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, an excellent beer selection, and a pretty friendly crowd. It's very popular, as you might imagine, so be prepared to wait. But the food is good, and you'll have fun there. If you want to splurge, I am a fan of Chez Henri, which is a bistro with some occasional Cuban dishes on the menu. Now, entrees can run more than ฤ, but they have a three-course prix fixe for ิ that is well worth the dough. Like most Boston restaurants, this isn't particularly dressy, and it has a very fun bar area that is actually preferable to the dining room. Plus, good mojitos. East Coast Grill has a great brunch, with loads of food for around บ a person (including this tasty duck tamale thing) -- plus a make-your-own bloody Mary bar and fresh oysters from around the world. Jumbo Seafood in Boston's Chinatown is great spot -- it's where the chefs and local foodies go to eat Chinese. Chau Chow City is also very good, and serves dim sum. Ultimately, to me, the best inexpensive restaurant in Boston is the Franklin Cafe. Now, this does get back to what the word "inexpensive" means to you -- but the entrees run about บ for good things like perfectly rare grilled tuna with mashed potatoes and other New American staples. I love the Franklin; the only problem is, so does everyone else, and there are only about 8 tables in the place. But it's in a prime South End locale, good for barhopping before or after, and it's the best deal for the best food in that town, to my mind. Oh, and one more thing: I love Emma's Pizza, in Cambridge. Right near Kendall Square. Delicious stuff, great husband and wife team who own the place. And you can sit down and eat and everything. Don't miss it. Good luck, and please post a full report of your findings upon your return. Love, Pal of Fat Guy
