Massachusetts Best Bargains 2010
No Red Lobster THE OTHER BROTHER DARRYL’S, Otis It may look small, but this fish market has a deservedly outsized reputation for providing landlocked Berkshirites with exceptionally fresh seafood at wholesale prices. They also do a brisk takeout business. Claim an outdoor table, select a live lobster to be steamed while you wait, and in […]
No Red Lobster
THE OTHER BROTHER DARRYL’S, Otis
It may look small, but this fish market has a deservedly outsized reputation for providing landlocked Berkshirites with exceptionally fresh seafood at wholesale prices. They also do a brisk takeout business. Claim an outdoor table, select a live lobster to be steamed while you wait, and in short order you’ll be dining on shellfish alfresco–simple, yet so delicious. Market prices vary. 276 North Main Rd. (Route 8). 800-635-6746, 413-269-7611; otherbrotherdarryls.com
Fast Food
ANTONIO’S PIZZA, Amherst
Like a jazz artist improvising on an old musical standard, this local institution riffs creatively on the nature of the Italian pie. Besides pepperoni, mushroom, pesto, Hawaiian, and other familiar flavors, you’ll also find playful combinations such as buffalo chicken bleu cheese, tortellini, black-bean taco, and rosemary potato bacon–more than 40 varieties in all. Slices: from $2. 31 North Pleasant St. 413-253-0808
Lone Star Dining
TEXAS BBQ COMPANY, Northborough
In the region around Texas’s state capital, beef is undisputed king of the barbeque pit. And the cut of steer most suited for showing off the dry-rub, slow-smoked Hill Country style is brisket. See for yourself at this small roadhouse, whose perfectly juicy, flavorful, fork-tender meat is priced to save you more than just a round trip to Austin. Sandwiches: from $7.49. Entrees: from $10.99. 309 Main St. (Route 20). 877-698-9227, 508-393-4742; texasbbqco.com
Knit-Nacks
EILEEN FISHER OUTLET, Burlington
It used to be that if you wanted to find a bargain on this designer’s simple, elegant, and versatile jerseys, sweaters, and cardigans, you had to travel some distance. No longer: Eastern Massachusetts now boasts an outlet store to cater to your love of fine linen, silk, cashmere, and wool. Wayside Commons, 6 Wayside Road. 781-685-9962; eileenfisher.com
Deep-Fried Delight
SABINO’S RESTAURANT & FAMILY PIZZARIA, Hyannis
Most Cape visitors drive by this little roadside eatery with nary a second glance. If only they knew what they’re missing: savory deep-fried Brazilian pasties–turnovers made to order with a rich variety of fillings stuffed within an incredibly light, flaky crust. Try the house special #1, packed with shredded chicken, hearts of palm, and corn. From $8. 55 Iyannough Road. 508-778-8380
