Located on the first block of Newbury Street, this restaurant and bar defines sophistication. An outdoor patio holds the overflow of the lively bar scene inside. Visiting celebrities have often been spotted here. The retro décor and dim lighting set a relaxed mood for dining. Check out the unusual light fixtures as you slip into the deep, candlelit booths. Entrees include Smoked Tenderloin with a Risotto Wedge and Seared Sea Scallops with Peppercorns.

This is a favorite after-work hang out for young professionals in the Back Bay, and it can be noisy on the first floor. The second floor is quieter, despite the two pool tables. In summer, there is an outdoor roof deck, which really offers no view, but is still crowded when the weather is nice. The menu mixes typical Southwestern dishes like fajitas, quesadillas, tamales and burritos with some nice entrée salads, sandwiches, and grilled meats and fish. The margaritas and beer selections are good.

If your idea of heaven is a martini in one hand and a cigar in the other, then this The Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel bar is for you. A selection of fine cigars is available, the drink selection is excellent, and the menu features superb steaks. This lounge has the feel of an old-world bar and piano music adds to the upscale atmosphere. This is clearly a first-class establishment, so dress appropriately. The Copley Plaza Hotel staff allow jeans, but not shorts, T-shirts or sneakers.

Wood floors, brass railings and a friendly bar scene characterize Charley's Eating & Drinking Saloon, a saloon-style eatery where burgers, steaks, pastas and salads are menu mainstays. Blackened-chicken Caesar salad served with warm bread and sweet butter is a local favorite. Grilled New York sirloin, lobster quesadillas and New England clam chowder served in a bread bowl are some other popular selections. Dine al fresco on the cobblestone patio when weather permits. It is the perfect spot for a bit of Newbury Street people-watching.

A century-old Italianate structure of bronze doors and grand marble staircases, Boston Public Library was the first free public library in the nation. It holds roughly six million books and sees two million visitors annually. Priceless holdings include first edition folios by Shakespeare, original music scores by Mozart and Prokofiev, and the personal library of former President John Adams. The cool interior features murals by John Singer Sargent and a relaxing courtyard.

When you want a bite to eat and some intellectual stimulation, Trident Booksellers & Cafe is just the ticket. Looking for a book on witchcraft, dreams, Buddhism or western philosophy? These are just a handful of subjects you will come across. You will also find a wide variety of magazines, including imported editions. The store has a small dining area, overlooking Newbury Street. Try the orzata cappuccino or a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich. There are also more substantial entrees, including canelloni and pork chops. The cafe also serves beer and wine.

Settle into a deep booth in the mahogany-paneled dining room and get ready for a melt-in-your-mouth culinary experience at this old-fashioned steakhouse called Abe & Louie's. Filet mignon and porterhouse steak are standard fare. The kitchen offers a selection of cheese and sauces that may be included with your steak. Lighter entrees include a selection of poultry and fish dishes. Pick your own side dishes from a list including onion rings, asparagus and creamed spinach while you enjoy a drink from the full service bar. Seasonal outdoor seating and private dining rooms are available.

Berklee Performance Center a 1,200-seat theatre is one of Boston's premier live music venues, and there is not a bad seat in the house. The stage usually hosts jazz, folk and world music shows. There are also occasional rock and pop shows, classical performances, theater productions and comedy shows. In addition, it is home to shows by Berklee College of Music instructors and students.

Atlantic Fish Company on Boylston Street has earned first place at the city's annual Chowderfest. The atmosphere is casual and the bar is lively. Once little more than a hole-in-the wall, it is now an upscale space with warm wood trim and intimate booths. Choose from a variety of seafood entrees that are fresh and well-prepared. Fried clams, an overflowing lobster roll and blackened salmon are the seafood favorites at the Atlantic Fish Company. Chicken and steak are also available for the land lovers, however vegetarian options are sparse.

Big, loud and fun are the words to describe Champions American Sports Bar. Tourists from the Boston Marriott Copley Place and neighborhood locals come to watch sporting events on the 22 televisions or two large screens inside. If you cannot get tickets for the Red Sox or the Patriots, try this Boston sporting experience, complete with roaring crowd and memorabilia-covered walls. Buffalo wings and cheese burgers make up the standard pub menu. On weekends, look out for a rowdy, dancing crowd.