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Stop by Golden Temple on Christmas Eve without a reservation and you’re likely to be relegated to the bar well past dinner time at this incredibly popular institution in the upscale Jewish neighbourhood of Brookline. Of course, that’s not so bad considering the Golden Temple’s novel- length cocktail menu and the bright, modern decor that invites people watching. The faithful worship the atmosphere as much as the food at the Temple, which consists largely of traditional Cantonese favourites and the city’s best black bean sauce. Valet parking is available and encouraged since odds are the fortunes won’t be on your side when it comes to finding a spot on the street.
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Anything goes, last orders: 1.45am Jumbo Seafood is distinctive for being at the top of nearly every list of Chinatown favourites. Naturally, seafood is the star of the show in this authentic Hong Kong restaurant near the Chinatown Gate. From eels to lobsters to crabs, the ocean- dwellers at Jumbo Seafood are the freshest you’ll find anywhere and dishes such as steamed jumbo scallops with ginger and scallions go well with the eatery’s inexpensive beer and wine offerings, which are served until 2am. Furnishings are spare though, so concentrate on the creatures of the sea.
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A favourite of the after-work crowd, Peking Tom’s is one of Boston’s newest and hottest restaurants thanks to its lively bar scene and innovative menu. Chef Marc Orfaly, who serves up sophisticated French cuisine down the street at Pigalle, indulges his whimsy at Peking Tom’s by serving up Cantonese dishes with a twist such as chicken and mango fried rice and sashimi alongside a drink selection that includes Mai Tais and Kumquat Martinis. At dessert, the chocolate and pineapple rangoon is a must-have. Critics decry the roar of the crowd, which is audible even in the dining room, but then, fans don’t flock here for solitude and contemplation.
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Boston’s version of the trendy Chinese food chain is especially popular with theatregoers hungry for a pre-show fix. Waits can be long, but prices are reasonable and service is as fast and reliable as one would expect from a chain restaurant eager to turn tables. Spring rolls, lettuce wraps, fried rice and other Anglicised favourites are greasy, guilty pleasures and PF Chang’s extensive wine list contains more than 50 selections. However, anyone looking for an authentic experience need only walk a few blocks to Chinatown.
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