DINE
Best Burger on the North Shore is… SEE PAGE 34
FOR SHOP INFORMATION AND PRODUCT CREDITS, SEE PAGE 256
Alfresco
EDITORS’ CHOICE
1606 RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR AT THE BEAUPORT HOTEL, Gloucester
There are few prettier spots than the deck at the Beauport, overlooking Gloucester Harbor and Ten Pound Island Light. Thoughtful touches ward off the chill, like space heaters, firepits, and cozy blankets to borrow—but really, you’re here for executive chef John Welch’s menu, which puts the focus on all the best things about New England dining. The Maine native brings more than 20 years’ experience in restaurants around the country, putting the emphasis on fresh fish, local producers, and elevated takes on traditional dishes from clam chowder to lobster risotto. 55 Commercial St., Gloucester, 978-491-5090, 1606restaurant.com
READERS’ CHOICE
1606 RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR AT THE BEAUPORT HOTEL, Gloucester
Bacon
EDITORS’ CHOICE
TERESA’S PRIME, North Reading
There should be a BONS hall of fame to celebrate these slow-cooked, triple-cut slabs of pork belly, because nothing else compares when you really want to indulge. Seared fast in a Maker’s Mark Bourbon glaze, giving it a sweet, earthy crust, then topped with Luxardo cherries, a serving consists of three pieces, enough to share, especially if you’re planning to indulge in steak or pasta for dinner. 20 Elm St. (Rte. 62), North Reading, 978-276-0044, teresasprime.com
READERS’ CHOICE
RED’S KITCHEN + TAVERN, Peabody
Appetizer or dessert? Who cares? The Candied Bacon is cured and sugar-glazed in house, making the slices stiff enough to stand up in a glass and dip in the side of Nutella. Definitely one for your social media posts. Of course, if candied isn’t your thing, more traditionally prepared bacon is available at breakfast. 131 Newbury St. (Rte. 1 N), Peabody, 978-531-7337, redskitchenandtavern.com
Bakery/Bread
EDITORS’ CHOICE
A&J KING ARTISAN BAKERS, Salem
Baked goods crafted with locally grown wheat, seasonal fruits, and veggies continually attract fans at farmers' markets and at the bakery’s Central Street café. The selection changes daily, so be sure to check online to see when your favorites are available. While you’re there, consider adding a few “Neighbor Loaves” to your cart. This special donation program, launched during the pandemic to meet a growing need in the community while keeping employees on the payroll, has thus far provided more than 2,000 loaves of fresh whole-grain bread to The Salem Pantry. 48 Central St., Salem, 978-744-4881, .aajkingbakery.com
READERS’ CHOICE
A&J KING ARTISAN BAKERS, Salem
BBQ
EDITORS’ CHOICE
RUSTY CAN, Byfiield
Behind that intentionally tatty façade—tucked into an aging strip mall next to a landscaping company—hides BBQ nirvana. Owner and pit master Jim “Sully” Sullivan cuts no corners, using top-quality meat and then slow-cooking to luscious tender perfection. While you can’t go wrong with standbys like beef brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, check out the handwritten chalkboard specials, posted daily to social media, for delectable delights like a smoked super beef threeway, watermelon salad, and a selection of barrel-aged cocktails. 6 Fruit St., Byfield, 978-462-1204, rustycanbyfield.com
READERS’ CHOICE
RUSTY CAN, Byfiield
Breakfast
EDITORS’ CHOICE
SUGAR MAGNOLIAS, Gloucester
For more than a decade, diners have been flocking to Sugar Mags for crab cakes and eggs, generous omelets filled with linguica and peppers, and the sweet bread French toast. Since it’s Gloucester, of course there is lobster—get it with Hollandaise sauce for a to-die-for Eggs Benedict, or have it with herbed cream cheese in an omelet. Summer weekends see a return of the restaurant’s seasonal liquor license, so you can sip a mimosa or Bloody Mary with your
