The curious title of the Davis Square eatery refers to a Thai table condiment that is essentially chili flakes, salt and fish oil. The restaurant adds it to most everything it serves. And talk about spicy – we’re talking new levels of just what four chilis mean.

Local folks don’t generally get fired up about hotel restaurants, for fair reasons, but the Sheraton Commander’s Nubar makes for good dining for anyone.

Yakitori Totto is a spare yet cozy Japanese cafe specializing in yakitori and boasting a distinct, late-night izakaya vibe in Assembly Row, an urban super mall that can feel commercial and big box.

Now that the new year is upon us and folks will want to eat healthier, can we talk kimchi and quinoa? There’s an excellent option at Revival Cafe in Alewife.

Pagu is back to the core business of fine Spanish-Asian fusion feeding, with dishes such as a tangy hamachi sashimi appetizer, sublime spicy knife-cut noodles entree, brilliantly contrasting Black Sesame Tofu and smart cocktails.

Charlie’s Kitchen opened in the 1950s and hasn’t changed much along the way – but still will make you a grilled cheese with lobster, salt-and-pepper fries, chicken kebab with rice pilaf or some burgers that come on brioche buns.

This traditional lobster casserole of rich, succulent meat with a hint of cheese and bread soaked in butter filled an intense craving – and came with a popover.

The wine selection and knowledge behind the bar at Spoke remains top-shelf, while the food has just become more eclectic and nuanced since its opening in 2013.

Between the CambridgeSide mall and Kendall Square, Lily P’s is where you can lob cornhole beanbags, listen to bluegrass and nosh on buttermilk-battered fried chicken.

Little Crepe is back in business after a pandemic shutdown, and with an emphasis on service and community engagement – crepes, community and coffee, if you will.