Editors’ Choice
Sea Level Oyster Bar, Salem
Standout Qualities: Oysters, clams, fresh fish, and pizzas, along with specialty cocktails, are offered in a casual setting with stunning views of Salem Harbor, so you can gab and sip with your best ladies against a beautiful backdrop.
What’s Unique: The restaurant has two bars—one downstairs and one up—for all your libation needs.
Fun Fact: Sea Level doesn’t take itself too seriously. The staff wears fun t-shirts with sayings like “Stop, drop, lobster roll” and “Want to see my mussels?”
94 Wharf St., 978-741-0555, sealeveloysterbar.com
Readers’ Choice
Tin Bucket, Reading
Standout Qualities: Paint, create, and celebrate at this creative space with classes and parties for adults and children.
What’s Unique: Tin Bucket is a one-stop shop for all your get-together needs—from craft nights to sip and knits, paint parties, book clubs, art classes, and, yes, even shopping.
Fun Fact: Owner Pam Keating named her store Tin Bucket after a fictional store her children created in their yard while playing.
12 Woburn St., Reading, 781-439-9051, tinbucketshop.com