traveldk.com

This sleek, modern lounge has quickly made a name for itself among cocktail aficionados for its addictive espresso martini.

Although this McKim, Mead, and White-designed building went up in 1895, the Boston Public Library was actually founded in 1848 and is the oldest publiclyfunded library in the country. The interior’s Greco-Roman style cues lavish use of marble, and John Singer Sargent’s powerful “Judaism and Christianity” mural sequence clearly illustrates how highly public education was valued when the library was constructed. Guided tours offer insight into the building’s architecture and history.

Bustling Brasserie Jo captures the savoir faire of 1940s Paris. Hearty French classics like steak roquefort are immensely satisfying.

A beer drinker’s paradise, Bukowski counts 100 varieties of suds. Its primary patrons are a professional crowd during the day and young hipsters at night.

Surrounded by lush greenery, Charley’s patio feels remarkably secluded despite its prime Newbury Street frontage. Simple bar staples like burgers, chicken wings, and massive salads attract a raucous after-work crowd.

While believers head for the Romanesque-Byzantine basilica, the library (entered from Massachusetts Avenue) emphasizes inspirational facets of the founder’s life rather than church doctrine of the power of faith over sin and disease. The Mapparium, a walkthrough stained glass globe with 1935 political boundaries, remains the most popular exhibit. Peer into the newsroom of the Christian Science Monitor. Outside, a 670 ft- (204-m) long reflecting pool designed by I. M. Pei is lined with begonias, marigolds, and columbines.

Ciao Bella is a favorite stop for star athletes, who come for the hearty portions of no-frills Italian cuisine and the sizzling alfresco scene.

Chef Ken Oringer presides over the grand Eliot Hotel’s claim to culinary fame. Luxurious entrées complement the richly appointed dining room.

With its leafy pedestrian mall and belle époque -inspired architecture, Commonwealth Avenue aptly deserves its comparison to les rues parisiennes . A morning jog on the mall is a popular pastime, as is the occasional picnic or afternoon snooze on a bench. Highlights include Boston’s first Baptist church (110 Clarendon; closed to non-worshipers) and the pedestrian mall’s stately statues, including the William Lloyd Garrison bronze, sculpted by local artist Anne Whitney.

Check your inhibitions at this subterranean boutique’s door. While male anatomy-shaped ketchup dispensers deserve a laugh, some of the sex toys toward the back might sooner merit a wince.