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Merrimack Valley Magazine

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2021 MVMA Winners – Good Eats

July 16, 2021 by Kristin Cole

We are happy to present the winners of the 2021 Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards. This spring, the top picks in all categories were chosen by our readers via our online voting platform. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and congratulations to all the winners.

Alfresco Dining
Cobblestones of Lowell
Known for their hand-cut steaks, burgers and seafood, Cobblestones of Lowell combines comfort food with regionally inspired American fare and contemporary selections. Dining outside at Cobblestones comes with its perks — beyond the sights of downtown Lowell, there’s occasional live music and entertainment.
91 Dutton St.
Lowell, Mass.
CobblestonesOfLowell.com

American
The Loft
The Loft in North Andover has created a rustic, inviting atmosphere for enjoying food and spirits. They serve fine USDA top-choice steaks, fresh seafood, poultry, produce and are open for lunch, dinner and private celebrations.
1140 Osgood St.
North Andover, Mass.
LoftSteakAndChopHouse.com

Asian
Blue Taleh
Located in downtown Lowell, Blue Taleh offers Thai, Japanese and sushi cuisine as well as a famous martini menu. Visit them and enjoy their cocktails, traditional maki dishes, and much more.
15 Kearney Sq.
Lowell, Mass.
BlueTalehLowell.com

Butcher
Alpine Butcher
Alpine Butcher has remained in the Doyle family since its start in 1913. The beef is USDA prime, and their pork and chicken are humanely raised as well as antibiotic- and hormone-free.
963 Chelmsford St.
Lowell, Mass.
AlpineButcher.com

Coffee Shops & Café’s
Frobie’s Cafe
This family-friendly cafe brings coffee, smoothies, acai bowls, juices, breakfast sandwiches and more to the Merrimack Valley food scene. The pleasant staff and tasty treats have earned Frobie’s a loyal following since it opened in 2014.
101 Broadway Rd.
Dracut, Mass.
Frobies.com 

CSA
Farmer Dave’s
Farmer Dave’s is a farm that responsibly grows a myriad of vegetables and fruits. With their CSA programs and “pick-your-own” offerings, Farmer Dave’s is committed to keeping their community strong and healthy.
437 Parker Rd.
Dracut, Mass.
FarmerDaves.net

Frozen Treats
Sullivan Farms Ice Cream
Sullivan Farms Ice Cream in Tyngsboro is known for their variety. They offer over 50 traditional flavors and seasonal options such as Bailey’s Irish Cream and White Chocolate Caramel Latte.
176 Middlesex Rd.
Tyngsboro, Mass.
SullivanFarmsIceCream.com

 

Italian
Al Fresca Ristorante
Family-owned and run Al Fresca Ristorante brings a taste of Italy to Tewksbury. They offer homemade Italian cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and a private dining space perfect for events.
1768 Main St.
Tewksbury, Mass.
AlfrescaRistorante.com

Irish Pub
Peddler’s Daughter
The Peddler’s Daughter has locations in Nashua and Haverhill. In addition to their Irish cuisine, they are open for brunch and dinner. Plus, they offer an extensive whiskey menu.
Haverhill, Mass. & Nashua, N.H.
ThePeddlersDaughter.com

Mexican
Casa Blanca
Casa Blanca’s Mexican dishes make them a staple for Mexican authentic cuisine in the Merrimack Valley. The atmosphere is inviting, the food is fresh, and the margaritas may be some of the best in the region.
Andover, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover, North Billerica and Wilmington, Mass.
CasaBlancaMexican.com 

Middle Eastern
Jocelyn’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge
Jocelyn’s offers Lebanese and American food, a full-service bar and even a martini lounge. The menu boasts lamb, kafta and kibbee dishes, as well as a vegetarian combo appetizer plate.
355 South Broadway
Salem, N.H.
JocelynsRestaurant.com

New Restaurant
Tuscan Sea Grill & Bar
An original restaurant concept of Tuscan Brands, Tuscan Sea Grill & Bar features locally sourced seafood, a raw bar, pasta, and much more. With a waterfront location overlooking the Merrimack River, guests can enjoy harbor views and warm weather alfresco dining.
38 Rear Merrimac St.
Newburyport, Mass.
TuscanSea.com

Pastry Shops / Bakery
Purple Carrot Bread Co.
Every item on Purple Carrot Bread Co.’s menu is made from scratch, from hearty stews to salad dressings and condiments. Rustic breads are the heart of Purple Carrot’s menu: Country Blonde, Kalamata olive, rosemary and garlic ciabatta are among the popular offerings.
107 Merrimack St.
Lowell, Mass.
PurpleCarrotBreadCo.com

Pizza
Flatbread Company
Beginning in Amesbury in the summer of 1998, Flatbread Company has prioritized serving real food, by real people, in a real environment. They partner with farms, supporting their surrounding communities and bringing an authentic taste to their pizzas.
Multiple Locations
FlatbreadCompany.com

Seafood
Seaglass Restaurant & Lounge
Located on the shores of the Atlantic, guests at Seaglass enjoy lunch and dinner with panoramic views framed by floor-to-ceiling windows while seated at tables over the ocean. Their seafood menu celebrates the ocean’s bounty by taking the freshest fish and treating it to the creative preparation of their culinary team.
4 Oceanfront North
Salisbury, Mass.
SeaglassOceanside.com

Specialty Market
Borrelli’s Italian Deli
Established in the Merrimack Valley over 50 years ago, Borelli’s Italian Deli is known for its Italian products, including their famous sausage and cold cuts. Borelli’s also offers hot subs, paninis, salads and specialty sandwiches.
322 Merrimack St.
Methuen, Mass.
BorrellisDeli.com

Wine Shop *TIE*
Andover Classic Wines
Locally owned and operated for its entire existence, Andover Classic Wines features more than 1,800 wines from every fine wine region, over 1,100 craft beers from around the world, and hundreds of the best bourbons, scotches, whiskeys, rums, gins, tequilas and other spirts.
209 N. Main St.
Andover, Mass.
AndoverClassicWines.com

Wine ConneXtion
Boasting “excellent wines at exceptional prices” customers at Wine ConneXtion can browse their large, open, cellar-style design that helps educate their clientele on everything from the characteristics of the wine to food pairings.
117 Main St.
North Andover, Mass.
WineConnextion.com

World Cuisine
Olympia Restaurant
Olympia Restaurant has been serving the Merrimack Valley Greek cuisine since 1952. They specialize in fresh USDA Colorado lamb, traditional Greek specialties, chicken, pork, Angus steak, chops, seafood and more.
453 Market St.
Lowell, Mass.
NewOlympia.com

Stop by next week for the winners of the ‘Health & Beauty’ category.

 

The 2021 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union logo

Filed Under: MVMA Tagged With: 2021 MVMA Winners, 2021 MVMAs, Al Fresca Ristorante, Alpine Butcher, Andover Classic Wines, Blue Taleh, Borrelli’s Italian Deli, Casa Blanca, Cobblestones of Lowell, Farmer Dave's, Flatbread Company, Frobie's Cafe, Good Eats, Jocelyn's Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge, Merrimack Valley, Olympia Restaurant, Peddler's Daughter, Purple Carrot Bread Company, Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge, Sullivan Farms Ice Cream, The Loft, Tuscan Sea Grill and Bar, Wine ConneXtion

Wellness Wednesday – 6/30/21

June 30, 2021 by Kristin Cole

This weekend, freedom takes on an even more poignant meaning as we reach an important milestone: Independence Day, the first major holiday in over a year that we can celebrate mask-less, at full capacity, and with as many friends and family members as our hearts desire. It is a time for safely rejoicing and celebrating all that we have our endured over the past year. This week, Wellness Wednesday is not only going red, white and blue, but providing you with tips for enjoying happy, healthy cookouts this weekend.

Star-Spangled Fruits and Veggies

Aligning with the spirit of the holiday, this week I did a deep dive into the healthiest red, white and blue foods. Across the board, phytonutrients are the real superheroes behind both plant and human health. According to this article from Diplomat Pharmacy, “phytonutrients are chemicals that help plants thrive and defend themselves against predators,” but they also are very beneficial for humans, too. Moreover, phytonutrients provide different benefits depending on their hue.

The Red …

The phytonutrients included in red fruits and vegetables include ellagic acid and lycopene. Consuming this (natural) color, along with vitamins A and C, which are found in abundance in many red fruits and vegetables, can help fight disease and cancer, reduce inflammation, enhance the immune system, regulate hormones, and protect skin, hair and nails.

For those looking to up their vegetable intake, Healthline’s list of 11 healthy red vegetables includes beets, red bell peppers, red chile peppers, red leaf lettuce, red onions and red potatoes.

A self-described berry and cherry enthusiast, I can’t talk about red without mentioning the incredible benefits of strawberries, cherries and raspberries. Healthline considers berries “among the healthiest foods on earth” because they are packed with both fiber and antioxidants, improve blood sugar and insulin response, help reduce inflammation and cholesterol levels, and are even believed to be good for your skin. Read the full article here for more details

The best thing about berries is that there’s so many ways to consume them: in a smoothie, on top of a shortcake, as a fruit salad or even added to a green salad. So ditch the cake or cookies and get creative (and colorful) with a fruit-filled dessert this weekend.

 

White …

White foods offer their own unique benefits. According to this article, they contain chemicals that help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, are high in potassium — which promotes heart and muscle health — and contain folate, which protects the body against cancer and aids in the production of new blood cells.

An article from The Healthy lists “13 white foods that are healthier than you thought” — mushrooms, cauliflower, milk, oysters, Greek yogurt, garlic, potatoes, turnips and popcorn are all included. Yup, you read that right. Popcorn made the list because it “has a mere 30 calories per cup; oil-popped popcorn has only 35 calories per cup [and] if you lightly butter it, you’re only looking at 80 calories per cup.”

Potatoes, too, are a healthy carb that shouldn’t be omitted from your diet. They are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, thiamin, and vitamin B6, so don’t feel bad digging into that potato salad at this weekend’s cookout. Just go easy on the mayo.

… and Blue!

Continuing on our patriotic wellness journey, blue foods are also worth including in your diet. According to Fresh Baby, “the main phytonutrient [in blue foods,] anthocyanidin, helps to decrease inflammation in the body’s cells and may protect against heart disease. Blue foods also contain minerals including copper and iron, vitamins C, K, B-6, B-12, and fiber.” Their list of healthy “blue” fruit and vegetables includes blueberries, blackberries, purple potatoes and cabbage, eggplant, plums and prunes. Healthline’s list of blue foods with “powerful benefits” adds elder berries, concord grapes, and blue tomatoes.

And if you’re worried about sugar intake after reading about all these fruits, check out this previous Wellness Wednesday discussing the benefits of sugar when consumed via fruit. And if I’ve inspired you to bring some fruit to the cookouts this weekend, I strongly encourage you to try this festive fruit salad arrangement — all you need to do is cut up some fruit!

We’ve only covered three colors of the rainbow, so if you’re looking for a little more, Everyday Health offers a thorough and entertaining summary of the health benefits of foods of every color.

***

GOOD READS: COOKOUT EDITION

Whether you’re hanging out beachside or poolside, turning on the oven or firing up the grill, we want you to have a safe and exciting Independence Day weekend. Making up our good reads section this week is some great tips from around the web for both enjoying and hosting a cookout.

Healthy Cookout. Eating right doesn’t need to ruin your holiday. This article from Eat Right offers some helpful, easy tips for making your cookout foods healthier. My favorite tip? Grill your dessert!

Ultimate Guide. Hosting your first cookout? Or, hosting your first in-person get-together in over a year? Diane Garcia of Just Cook offers an “ultimate guide to hosting a summer cookout” in 2021. The article offers unique recipes and menu ideas, and tips on how to prepare food before guests arrive and how to fire up the grill during party time.

Food Inspo. Looking to spice things up with some new dishes this weekend? This article offers 50 great Independence Day recipes, with everything from appetizers to desserts. So whether you’re hosting the party or simply bringing an appetizer, there’s inspiration for everyone.

BBQ Reading. A few years ago, our editor Doug Sparks recommended numerous books that will help you perfect your summer cookout skills, and you can check out his article here. Even if you can’t finish them before this weekend’s holiday, they’ll help you improve your grilling game all summer!

Unique Traditions. Read about some unique ways that people celebrate the Fourth of July in this interesting piece from Bloomberg. Hear from Indian-, Mexican-, Asian-Americans and more as they describe their personal celebrations as well as what the holiday means to them.

And I can’t leave you without a classic song to get ready for the weekend …

Filed Under: Health & Wellness Tagged With: cookout, festive, Fourth of July, fruits, Good Eats, Health, Independence Day, Vegetables, Wellness

2020 MVMA Winners – Good Eats (Part 1)

July 14, 2020 by Terry Suzuki

We are happy to present the winners of the 2020 Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards. This spring, the top picks in all categories were chosen by our readers via our online voting platform. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and congratulations to all the winners.

American
Burtons Grill & Bar
Burton’s Grill is the place to go for cuisine from the traditional to the innovative. Perfect for power lunches, after-work socializing and fine wine, Burton’s offers paleo, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as classic American cuisine. Additionally, their scratch kitchens are able to customize menu offerings for your dietary needs and wants. Takeout is always available and several locations feature seasonal outdoor patios.
North Andover, Peabody, Burlington, Westford and Hingham, Mass.; Nashua, N.H.
BurtonsGrill.com

Asian
Feng Shui
With fun and unusual sushi offerings such as the Red Sox Maki roll (scallop tempura, spicy mayo, tuna and avocado) and the lobster tempura roll, Feng Shui’s extensive menu offers a playful spin on Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Executive Chef Patrick Shao’s background includes work at a five-star hotel in Beijing and top chef Johnson Ping Zhu did a stint at the famed Gramercy Park Hotel in New York. Their other chefs put on a show with their onion volcanos and knife wizardry at the hibachi grills.
Chelmsford and Tyngsborough, Mass.
GoFengShui.com

Pastry Shops / Bakery
Purple Carrot Bread Co.
In April 2018, Purple Carrot Bread Co. opened its doors as a cafe and eatery on Merrimack Street in downtown Lowell. Every item on the menu is made from scratch, from hearty stews to salad dressings and condiments. Rustic breads are the heart of Purple Carrot’s menu: Country Blonde, Kalamata olive, rosemary and garlic ciabatta are among the more popular offerings. Can’t make it to Lowell? Their wares are featured at summer farmers markets throughout the Valley.
107 Merrimack St. | Lowell, Mass.
PurpleCarrotBreadCo.com

Coffee Shops & Cafes
Frobie’s Cafe
This family-friendly cafe is relatively new to the Merrimack Valley scene. The pleasant staff and tasty food and coffee have earned Frobie’s a loyal following since it opened in 2014. They offer the unexpected: cherry blossom ice cream and homemade jalapeno Sriracha cream cheese are included on their updated menu. Plus, there’s outdoor seating.
101 Broadway Rd. | Dracut, Mass.
Frobies.com

 

Italian
Al Fresca Ristorante
A family-owned and run independent restaurant serving homemade Italian cuisine and hand-crafted cocktails, Al Fresca offers a taste of Italy in Tewksbury. Al Fresca is also the perfect host for social gatherings, business functions and family events. Need a place for outdoor dining? Call for reservations — their full menu is available.
1768 Main St. | Tewksbury, Mass.
AlFrescaRistorante.com

Irish Pub
The Old Court Irish Pub & Restaurant
The Old Court is an authentic Irish pub and restaurant located in historic downtown Lowell. Since opening in February 2001, they have become an integral part of Lowell’s bustling dining and entertainment scene while retaining their unique Irish identity. Their kitchen features the best in contemporary American cuisine. They also serve traditional Irish classics including shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and fish and chips.
29-31 Central St. | Lowell, Mass.
OldCourtIrishPub.com

Mexican
Casa Blanca
In 2006, the first Casa Blanca opened in North Andover. Its authentic Mexican food appealed to locals, and soon the Vargas family opened more locations throughout the Merrimack Valley. The atmosphere is inviting, the food is fresh, and the margaritas may be the best in the region. The tamales de pollo alone make Casa Blanca worth a visit, and with six locations in and around the MV, one shouldn’t be far away.
Locations throughout the Merrimack Valley.
CasaBlancaMexican.com 

Middle Eastern
Jocelyn’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge
The lamb, kafta and kibbee dishes make this Salem eatery a carnivore’s paradise. But fear not, herbivores — the vegetarian combo appetizer plate is so packed with freshness and flavor that you’ll forget it’s healthy. Jocelyn’s offers Lebanese and American food, a full-service bar and a martini lounge. Since May, they have offered outdoor seating.
355 South Broadway | Salem, N.H.
JocelynsRestaurant.com

Pizza
Tremonte Pizzeria
Tremonte Pizzeria specializes in Neapolitan thin-crust, hand-tossed pizza cooked in a stone hearth oven at over 700 degrees. They also serve burgers, wings and a variety of authentic Italian specialties. The comfortable dining environment is complemented by a wraparound bar featuring 36 beers on tap. Want something different for dessert? Try the warm apple crostata.
Lowell and Tyngsborough, Mass.
TremontePizzeria.com

Specialty Market
Butcher Boy Market
Featuring everyday favorites and hard-to-find specialty items, Butcher Boy Market has everything you need for your summer dining. While their 60-foot meat counter has all the poultry, beef, lamb, veal, pork and homemade sausages you need, you can also find baked goods, craft cheese, wines and spirits, as well as an eye-popping array of treasures for those with a sweet tooth. They’ve been around since 1955. Stop in and find out why.
1077 Osgood St. | North Andover, Mass.
ButcherBoyMarket.com

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the second half of our ‘Good Eats’ category.

 

The 2020 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Filed Under: MVMA Tagged With: 2020, Al Fresca Ristorante, Burtons Grill and Bar, Butcher Boy Market, Casa Blanca, Feng Shui, Good Eats, Jocelyn's Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge, Merrimack Valley Magazine Award, MVMA, MVMAs, Purple Carrot Bread Company, The Old Court Irish Pub and Restaurant, TreMonte Pizzeria, Winners

2019 MVMA Winners – Wine & Dine (Part 2)

July 30, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

We are happy to present the winners of the 2019 Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards. This spring, the top picks in all categories were chosen by our readers via our online voting platform. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and congratulations to all the winners.

Specialty Market
Butcher Boy Market
Break out the grill and grab an apron. Butcher Boy Market’s 60-foot meat counter has all the poultry, beef, lamb, veal, pork and homemade sausages you need. Not sure what you want? Their experienced butchers are happy to help you decide. Pick up some fresh fruit and beer for the perfect summer spread.
1077 Osgood St.  |  North Andover, Mass.
ButcherBoyMarket.com

Wine Shop
Andover Classic Wines
Whether you’re throwing a party or need to pick up wine for dinner, Andover Classic Wines can help. Shop your favorite style or vintner, or browse by country. Find a cabernet from Argentina, a riesling from Germany or a pinot from New Zealand. International beers and spirits are also on hand at this well-versed shop.
Andover, Mass.
AndoverClassicWines.com

World Cuisine
Fuse Bistro
Chef-owned Fuse prides itself on making its food from scratch, right down to the ice cream and chipotle ketchup. The creativity of the seasonal and locally-sourced menu is matched by the easygoing ambience — for many locals, the outdoor seating evokes lazy summers sipping ice-cold craft cocktails with friends.
45 Palmer St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
FuseBistro.com

New Restaurant
The Keep
The Keep has quickly rose to prominence as a go-to spot in downtown Lowell for craft beer, dinner with the family or cocktails with friends after work. Featuring beer from award-winning breweries both near and far, signature cocktails and fresh, locally sourced food served in an approachable atmosphere. The Keep also boasts an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection.
110 Gorham St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
TheKeepLowell.com

Diner
Four Sisters Owl Diner
Breakfast at this historic diner is guaranteed to start your day off right. Old favorites are given new life in Owl’s savory steak and eggs, homemade corned beef hash and creamed chipped beef on toast. Soups, salads and sandwiches make up the lunch menu. Wake up and fuel up at the Owl Diner.
244 Appleton St.  |  Lowell, Mass. 

Frozen Treats
Kimball Farm
Kimball Farm has been making ice cream for more than 75 years. With a variety of sherbet, sorbet and frozen yogurt, in addition to more than 50 flavors of ice cream, there’s something for everyone. Vanilla ice cream is a traditional crowd favorite, particularly in hot fudge sundaes, banana splits, and the Kimball Special — three softball-size scoops of ice cream, three toppings, marshmallow, whipped cream and nuts.
Carlisle, Lancaster and Westford, Mass.; Jaffrey, N.H.
KimballFarm.com

Alfresco Dining
The Deck
The Deck is located at historic Bridge Marina, the oldest marina on the Merrimack River, and offers delicious drinks and a simple, refined menu. The food is freshly prepared each day from scratch to deliver a unique and tasty experience and the waterview is one of the best in the region. After a recent expansion, there is now a second-floor roofed lounge area.
179R Bridge Rd.  |  Salisbury, Mass.
TheDeckSalisbury.com

Caterers
Two Chefs Are Better Than One
Two Chefs Are Better Than One Catering can create an ideal menu for any wedding or celebration, whether it’s a quaint family gathering or an extravagant gala with hundreds of guests. Let Two Chefs worry about the details while you enjoy your special day. Work with their event coordinators to customize a list of options that meets all your needs and desires.
Lowell, Mass.
TwoChefsFood.com

Seafood
Seaglass Restaurant and Lounge
The panoramic ocean views at this casual upscale restaurant make it an ideal destination for a simple night out or a big celebration. Seaglass offers a wide selection of surf and turf entrees and local seasonal specials. Stop by Sundays for Seaglass’s Brunch by the Sea and enjoy a bloody mary with your water view.
4 Oceanfront North  |  Salisbury, Mass.
SeaglassOceanside.com

 

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the second half of our ‘Wine & Dine’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Filed Under: Food & Drink, MVMA Tagged With: 2019, Andover Classic Wines, Awards, Butcher Boy Market, Congrats, Four Sisters Owl Diner, Fuse Bistro, Good Eats, Hooked Seafood, Kimball Farm, MVMA, MVMAs, ReadersChoice, The Deck, The Keep, Two Chefs Are Better Than One, wine & dine, Winners

2019 MVMA Winners – Wine & Dine (Part 1)

July 23, 2019 by Merrimack Valley Magazine Leave a Comment

We are happy to present the winners of the 2019 Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards. This spring, the top picks in all categories were chosen by our readers via our online voting platform. Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote and congratulations to all the winners.

American
Burtons Grill & Bar
Burton’s Grill is the place to go for cuisine from the traditional to the innovative. Perfect for power lunches, after-work socializing and fine wine, Burton’s offers paleo, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as classic American cuisine. Takeout is always available and several locations feature seasonal outdoor patios.
North Andover, Peabody, Burlington, Westford and Hingham, Mass.; Nashua, N.H.
BurtonsGrill.com

Asian
Fusion House Restaurant
The emphasis in on fusion at this cozy Methuen eatery. The scope of the dishes is wide: the many choices include sushi, pad thai, and Polynesian-style Chinese favorites. Wash it all down with one of their classic cocktails.
301 Merrimack St.  |  Methuen, Mass.
FusionHouseRestaurant.com

Pastry Shops/Bakery
Purple Carrot Bread Company
In April 2018, Purple Carrot Bread Co. opened its doors as a cafe and eatery on Merrimack Street in downtown Lowell. Every item on the menu is made from scratch, from hearty stews to salad dressings and condiments. Rustic breads are the heart of Purple Carrot’s menu: Country Blonde, Kalamata olive, rosemary and garlic ciabatta are among the more popular offerings.
107 Merrimack St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
PurpleCarrotBreadCo.com

Coffee Shops & Cafes
Brew’d Awakening Coffeehaus
With free WiFi, compostable cups, outdoor seating and custom-roasted beans, what more could you ask for in a local coffee shop? Find all this and more at Brew’d Awakening Coffeehaus. Offering Equal Exchange fair trade coffees and three in-house roasts, Brew’d Awakening is a great place to do some work, chat with friends or just sit and sip.
61 Market St.  |  Lowell, Mass.
BrewdAwakening.com 

Italian
Tuscan Kitchen
Inspired by owner Joe Faro’s travels throughout Italy, Tuscan Kitchen’s authentic Italian cuisine makes you feel as though you’ve stepped right into the boot. Tuck into a Fichi pizza with figs, rosemary, burrata and prosciutto, or go for the traditional rigatoni alla Bolognese. Want something lighter? They also offer delicious salads and meat dishes.
Burlington, Mass.; Salem, N.H.
TuscanBrands.com/Kitchen

Irish Pub
The Irish Cottage
The Irish Cottage bills itself as Methuen’s first authentic Irish restaurant and pub and features great food, drinks and music, all served up with a heaping of traditional Irish atmosphere. Enjoy watching sporting events on their numerous TVS while you chow down on classics such as corned beef and cabbage, cottage pie and Guinness beef stew. Every Saturday night at 7 p.m., The Irish Cottage features live Irish music.
17 Branch St.  |  Methuen, Mass.
TheIrishCottagePub.com

Mexican
Cafe Azteca
Ready for some authentic Mexican food? Look no further than Cafe Azteca. The restaurant’s owners, the Guerrero family, draw inspiration from their annual trips to visit family in Mexico, bringing back new recipes and colorful Mexican decor. Enjoy their delicious selection of margaritas while awaiting your tamales and tostadas.
180 Common St.  |  Lawrence, Mass.
Cafe-Azteca.com

Middle Eastern
Jocelyn’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge
The lamb, kafta and kibbee dishes make this Salem eatery a carnivore’s paradise. Fear not, herbivores — the vegetarian combo appetizer plate is so packed with freshness and flavor that you’ll forget it’s healthy. Jocelyn’s offers Lebanese and American food, a full-service bar and even a martini lounge.
355 South Broadway  |  Salem, N.H.
JocelynsRestaurant.com

Pizza
Tripoli Bakery
It all started with Italian breads and pastries. Luckily for us, in 1944 the Zappala family started making pizza, and one of the best pizzerias around was born. Now you can enjoy beach pizza and pick up some traditional Italian cookies and cannoli for later. Tripoli also offers specialty cakes and their signature fresh breads.
Lawrence, North Andover, Methuen, Salisbury, Mass.; Seabrook, N.H.
TripoliBakery.com

 

 

 

Stop by next week for the winners in the second half of our ‘Wine & Dine’ category.

The 2019 MVMAs are sponsored by:

Filed Under: Food & Drink, MVMA Tagged With: 2019, 2019MVMAs, american, asian, bakery, Brew’d Awakening Coffeehaus, Burtons Grill and Bar, Cafe Azteca, Coffee Shops & Cafes, Food, Fusion House Restaurant, Good Eats, Irish Pub, Italian, Jocelyn's Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge, Merrimack Valley Magazine Awards, Mexican, Middle Eastern, MVMAs, Pastry Shops, Piza, Purple Carrot Bread Company, The Irish Cottage, Tripoli Bakery, Tuscan Kitchen, Wine and Dine

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Eight Great Things To Do This Weekend (Thursdays)
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Orangetheory Methuen is celebrating it’s one year anniversary with an
Open House, Saturday June 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Join your friends and neighbors to learn more about the fastest growing workout sensation in the nation. Tour the studio. Meet the coaches. Enter to win a 10 pack of classes. The first 20 people who sign up for a free class at the event will receive a free bonus class, no obligation. 

Click here to learn more! 

Click here to schedule your FREE CLASS in Chelmsford @DrumHill / (978) 577-5901
Click here to schedule your FREE CLASS in Methuen @The Loop / (978) 620-5850

*Free Class for first-time visitors and local residents only.