Editors’ Choice
Teresa’s Prime
North Reading
It’s really just bacon, as advertised on the menu. And yet it’s so much more—three triple-thick slabs of slow-cooked lusciousness, seared with a sweet bourbon glaze on the outside. So rich you may want to share…or maybe not. We think a bright sparkling wine would go nicely with this indulgent app—or go all-in and try it with a glass of Maker’s Mark bourbon, since that’s what it’s marinated in.
20 Elm St. (Rte. 62), North Reading, 978-276-0044, teresasprime.com
Runner Up
Red’s Kitchen + Tavern
Peabody
Sounds weird, we know, but you have to try the Candied Bacon. Cured and glazed in-house, the slices are stiff enough to dip in the side of Nutella. Trust us.
131 Newbury St. (Rte. 1 N), Peabody, 978-531-7337, redskitchenandtavern.com
Readers’ Choice
Back Alley Bacon
Salem
This secret Wednesday night takeout pop-up keeps it weird, with a not-so-secret password (find it on Facebook) and chefs wearing pig masks. But it’s worth the intrigue to get your hands on their always-pork-based dinners.
Liberty St., Salem, backalleybacon.com