I’ve spent my entire life in New England.. central Massachusetts if we’re getting technical.. and found some awesome spots along the way. I’ve always preferred one of  a kind shops and restaurants and avoid chains if at all possible! Luckily for me, central Massachusetts’ local businesses have exploded over the last ten years and there are so many great places to choose from.

Here are my top picks lately..

The best coffee shop: Birchtree Bread Company located on Green Street in Worcester, MA. They make some of the best lattes around (my favorite is their maple latte) and also serve delicious breakfast and lunch. Their vibe is amazing, they support so many other local businesses, they have live music on weekends and a large seating area… but be ready to wait in a long line because this spot has become very popular… for good reason!

The best breakfast: C’est La Vie located on Main Street in Northborough, MA. This cozy spot is homey, French inspired and the fragrance from their crepes will make your mouth water as you walk in the door. Delicious coffee, crepes, omelets (that aren’t greasy… I hate greasy omelets), and the most amazing creme brûlée French toast… you MUST try this when you visit!

The best lunch: I have two favorite places lately. Atlantic Poke located on Boston Turnpike in Shrewsbury, MA. This restaurant recently opened and is a great place for a quick and healthy lunch. They serve custom poke bowls ready in minutes and filled with so many clean and delicious ingredients. The Vin Bin located in Marlborough and Southborough, MA. A more traditional take on lunch, they serve a wide variety of unique sandwiches, soups and salads and have a cute wine shop to browse.

The best dinner: One Eleven Chophouse located on Shrewsbury Street in Worcester, MA.  If you’re looking for a spot to celebrate a milestone, birthday, anniversary or just a nice restaurant for dinner.. this place is the best in Worcester. The service is ALWAYS on point and the steaks are some of the best I’ve ever tasted (even compared to Boston and New York City steakhouses). If you’re looking for a more affordable option, they even have a bar menu that is delicious!

The best sushi: Yama Zakura located on West Main Street in Northborough, MA. A small spot with the best sushi I’ve ever eaten. I’ve been told California sushi is the best… wrong. We have the best sushi in the small town of Northborough. If you like lobster, try the lobster bomb roll.. it’s amazing.

The best pizza: Volturno located in Framingham and Worcester, MA. Italian inspired pizza with the softest and most delicious crust ever. They also have a beautiful (and tasty) charcuterie board.

The best appetizers: Bourbons located on Beacon Street in Framingham, MA. The first time I went to this place, I thought I was in the wrong spot. It’s in a parking lot and looks a little sketchy.. but wait until you get inside.. you’ll feel like you stepped back in prohibition times. Of course, as you can probably tell from the name, they have delicious drinks but I go for the appetizers.. because, well.. candied bacon. Need I say more? They have a large selection of apps (a couple with candied bacon) and all of them are amazing.

What are your favorite local spots? I’d love to try them!