Editors’ Choice
Pellana Prime Steakhouse
Peabody
The Mammola family consistently excels at everything they take on, and perpetual winner Pellana is no exception. Start with a carefully crafted cocktail—their list includes a mix of classics and elegant house inventions—before moving on to the vast wine list. Custom cuts are a specialty (40-ounce tomahawk, anyone?) and they age beef in-house, of course. Service matches the high quality of the food—staff can nimbly assist with wine pairings and menu recommendations, and of course your water glass is always full.
9 Sylvan St., Peabody, 978-531-4800, pellanasteakhouse.com
Readers’ Choice
Ledger
Salem
Chef/owner Matt O’Neil has built a stellar team all the way through—the kitchen and the dining room both exude a welcoming charm backed by uncompromising food and service. Nearly everything, except the ketchup, is made in-house, from the burger buns to the charcuterie.
125 Washington St., Salem, 978-594-1908, ledgersalem.com