What’s next?

everystockphoto.com

Well, we’re not really sure.

Since summer is a typically slow time of year, we’ve been taking some time to think about what exactly we want to do with DWITC.

Where should we go with what we’ve done so far?  We’ve come up with a few ideas.

harpersbazaar.com

1.  Stay on our current course.
2.  Focus more on fashion.
3.  Focus more on dining and nightlife.
4.  Write about issues that “matter.”
5.  Combine Options 2 and 3 with issues that “matter,” since, let’s face it: Sometimes, fashion, dining and nightlife are all that matter.

We want YOUR feedback.  Got an idea and suggestion?  Send it on over to dwitc.boston@gmail.com.

We’re Almost There…

It’s icky out there today.  You deserve to be rewarded for even leaving the house, right?  Treat yourself to a fab lunch or dinner (or, if we may interject, both) at today’s Restaurant Week picks!

Lunch

boneshow.org

Clink

215 Charles Street
Boston, MA
(617) 224-4004

Starter – Chilled Yellow Tomato Soup
Main – “Tuscan” Pork Sandwich
Dessert – Peach and Blueberry Cobbler

Online Reservations

Dinner

cityvoter.com

Petit Robert

468 Commonwealth Ave.
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 375-0699

Appetizer – Mesclun Salad with Panko Crusted Goat Cheese
Entrée – Garlicky Mushroom and Tomato Risotto
Dessert – Chocolate Mousse

Online Reservations

Happy Hump Day!

Hopefully we didn’t miss you before your mid-day break!  Here are Wednesday’s winners.

Lunch

The Hungry I

boston-discovery-guide.com

71 1/2 Charles Street
Boston, MA
(617) 227-3524

First Course – Herbed Polenta
Second Course – Filet of Sole
Dessert – Pear Tarte Tartin

Sorry, online reservations are not available.

Dinner

The Blue Room

theblueroom.net

Hampshire Street & Portland Streets (in Kendall Square)
Cambridge, MA
(617) 494-9034

First Course – Duxbury Mussels
Second Course – Pozole
Dessert – Bittersweet Chocolate + Candied Ginger Poundcake

Online Reservations

Tuesday Picks

It’s true: We have, in fact, been running around whipping up cream cheese brownies.  But, we’ve also been diligently continuing our research for Boston Restaurant week.  Check out today’s winners below!

Lunch

fairbankdesign.com

OM

92 Winthrop St.
Cambridge, MA

Starter – Shrimp Lettuce Wrap
Entree – Saigon Sub
Sweet – Chai Tea Ice Cream

Online reservations

Dinner

finaledesserts.com

Finale

(Who would’ve guessed they have anything but desserts?)

1 Columbus Avenue
Boston, MA

Soups & Salad – Pear Almond Salad
Entrée     – Meat Lover’s Pizza
Plated Dessert – Molten Chocolate

Sorry, no online reservations available.

Bon appétit!

We’re not sure who else saw Julie & Julia over the weekend, nor are we sure of the typical audience reaction to it.  The DWITC response to this (in our humble opinion) fantastic film has been a three-step process:

timesunion.com

1.    Unearth the pile of Bed, Bath & Beyond coupons collecting in the kitchen.
2.    Visit Bed, Bath & Beyond to purchase the following products:
- George Foreman Grill
- Cooling rack
- Cupcake pan
- Meat thermometer
- PedEgg (optional)
3.    Download dozens of recipes and exclaim, “I really don’t want to do laundry, clean, or write this week’s blog.  I just want to drink wine and play with my new kitchen toys.”

From what we’ve heard, however, there are certain individuals who actually like to browse DWITC every day.  Therefore, instead of frittering away our hours making guacamole, we will happily do our best to continue entertaining our readers.  It’s only appropriate that, in light of this overall gastronomic theme, we honor one of the happiest times of year: Boston Restaurant Week.

We’ll be naming our top picks for participating restaurants each day this week for both lunch and dinner, along with our favorite items on the respective Pre Fixe menus.

And so, we’ll kick it off with a superb quote from the latest addition to our list of favorite films:

womanaroundtown.com

Paul Child: What is it you really like to do?
Julia Child:  Eat!
Paul: And you’re so good at it.
Julia:  I am.

Today’s Picks – Monday

Lunch

opentable.com

Vintage Lounge
72 Broad Street
Boston, MA

First Course – Cream of Tomato Soup
Second Course – Sun Dried Tomato Gnocchi
Third Course – Selection from the “Assorted Sorbets”

Online reservations

Dinner

Lucia Ristorante
415 Hanover Street
Boston, MA

luciaboston.com

Primi – Fagottino
Secondi – Petto di Pollo Farcito
Dolce – Torta di Nocciola Con Crema Inglesa

Online reservations

Please Excuse Our Silence

oneida.com

Things are once again shifting here at DWITC as we continue to find our niche in the social media and blogging world.  There may be a lag in updates here and there which, from what we’ve heard, isn’t a huge issue since most Bostonians flee the city in August.

For those who are staying put, we’ve done some detective work to sniff out fun things to do around here.  We figure that we’ve got your attention for one more week before restaurant week begins and DWITC is cast into the shadows of prix-fixe menus at the latest and greatest in Boston dining.

Until then, dear readers, check out what we found.

Monday, August 3

Let’s Just Be Friends

The Savant Project
1526 Tremont Street, Boston, MA
10 P.M.

facebook.com

Who knew anything was bumpin’ on a Monday night, especially in a city where everything shuts down by 2 A.M.?  Look no further than The Savant Project: A Brigham Circle restaurant and bar that keeps its doors open late on the first Monday of every month for what some might describe as the best weeknight dance party.

Come enjoy $1.50 PBRs (hey, everyone enjoys a trip down fuzzy-college-memory lane) and beats from DJ G-Blok tonight.  For more info, visit the event site.

Tuesday, August 4

Under 30 Meditation Night

Shambhala Meditation Center
646 Brookline Avenue, Brookline, MA
7 P.M.

shambhalaboston.org

It happens to the best of us: Sometimes we just forget to breathe.   That’s why places like the Shambhala Meditation Center were established:  To remind us of the importance of finding peace and compassion in our daily lives.  Join young professionals, students and other 20-something locals for the center’s Under 30 Meditation Night, taking place every Tuesday.  Om.

For more information, call (617) 734-1498 or visit www.shambhalaboston.org.

Plus…

Fashion Art Deco
District
180 Lincoln Street, Boston, MA
9 P.M.

Taste of Park Plaza
Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers
50 Park Plaza at Arlington Street, Boston, MA
6 P.M.

Wednesday, August 5

2010 Patriots Cheerleaders Swimsuit Calendar Unveiling

Ned Devine’s
1 Faneuil Hall Market Place, Boston, MA
8 P.M.

heraldinteractive.com

Okay, fellas.  We know this site has left you feeling ignored, neglected, nauseous, or all three.  So this one’s for you.

The New England Patriots Cheerleaders will be gracing the crowd at Ned Devine’s with their presence this Wednesday night to unveil their 2010 calendar.  All 29 ladies will be there to sign autographs, take pictures with fans and sell the calendars for $20.  Try not to make too much of a fool out of yourself.

Event is 21+; details are available at www.patriots.com.

And…

Come Sail Away Now: Tupelo Honey
Pier 6, Charlestown, MA
9 P.M.

Julia Child Inspired Cuisine at Julie & Julia Movie Night
Technique Restaurant @ Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts
215 First Street, Cambridge, MA 02142
Through 11 P.M.

Thursday, August 6

Hot Salsa

Club Caribe @ the Courtyard Marriott Cambridge
777 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, MA
Dance lesson at 8:30; Party at 9:45

salsaboston.com

We know: It feels like summer only began about a week ago, even though we’re well into its meteorological calendar period.  Or something.  Boston, it’s officially time to heat things up!

Club Caribe, a gorgeous new venue overlooking the Charles, is making quite a name for itself with its Thursday night Hot Salsa parties.  Newcomers, fret not:  Salsa dance lessons are available for $12 before the party officially begins.  For experts and the very brave, the party is only $10 to get in.  ¡Olé!

For more information, visit http://salsaboston.com/caribe.

Also see…

Paddle for Autism Awareness
Greatest Bar
262 Friend Street, Boston, MA
7 P.M.

Boston 2014 Kick-Off Rally
Estate
1 Boylston Place, Boston, MA
7 P.M.

Blues Barge
Boston Harbor Hotel
50 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA
6 P.M.

Friday, August 7

Nightcap

ImprovBoston
40 Prospect Street, Cambridge, MA
11:30 P.M.

artsboston.org

Let’s face it:  There are some wacky people in this city.  We like sick jokes, drinking beer and staying up late…and that’s just the beginning.

These things that we love will be epitomized at ImprovBoston with Nightcap, an adult-oriented evening of comedy featuring foul-mouthed puppets and, well…what more needs to be said?

For details or to purchase tickets, visit www.improvboston.com.

And check out…

Wavelengths
ICA
100 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA
7:30 P.M.

Saturday, August 8

Fashion Evolution: Now

Lenox Hotel
61 Exeter Street, Boston, MA
7:30 P.M.

bostonfashion.com

Not too long ago, the Iman Fashion Group created a “segment tribute to fashion”: Three nights to honor and exhibit fashion from Then, Now and Forever.  This Saturday, “Now” will be showcased at the Lenox Hotel with a live runway show.

Additional information is available at www.bostonfashion.com, as well as write-ups of past segment shows.

Sugar is sweet … and so are you.

botanicgardensblog.com

Bastille Day has passed, the casting call is over and August is just around the corner.  Some might think that we’re stuck in the End-Of-July Limbo: That period when summer’s not quite over, but the realization of time’s fleeting nature occurs to those who would rather remain blithely unaware of it.

To those individuals, we say: “Let them eat cake!”  Wait, that’s not right.  To those individuals, we say, “Carpe Diem!”  Summer is far from over and this week’s events go above and beyond to indicate such.  In fact, after the total rip-off that was the month of June, summer has practically just begun.  We’ve only just started to witness scorching hot days and melting ice cream cones; if we have our way, these things will continue well into September.

What’s our version of optimism?  Days full of endless ice cold drinks, sun and temperatures in the 80s until, all of a sudden, it’s time to go home for Thanksgiving.  Here’s hoping!

Monday, July 20

Lobster Land

Olives
10 City Square
Charlestown, MA
5 P.M.

toddenglish.com

Lobsters are red, winter is blue … we know which one we’d prefer.  So does chef Todd English and his crew at his Charlestown restaurant Olives, host of this week’s Lobster Land event.  Diners can receive a three-course meal for $35, headlined, no doubt, by the 1.25-pound lobster entrée.

Reservations are recommended and can be made at opentable.com.  For more information on Todd English and his many restaurants, visit http://www.toddenglish.com.

And what better way to burn off that big meal than with a …

Latin Drill Class
Extreme Dancesport Studio
288 Norfolk Street
Cambridge, MA
6:45 P.M.

Tuesday, July 21

Summer Drink Event

Finale
1306 Beacon St.
Brookline, MA
7 P.M.

finaledesserts.com

Many Bostonians drool over the menu at Finale the way a St. Bernard drools over…well, anything.  On Tuesday night, dessert enthusiasts can pair their favorite pastry with a delicious summer-themed cocktail for Finale’s special summer drink and sweet tasting.  For $19.99, patrons can enjoy a selection including the Tropical Sunset, Pink-Tini, Mixed Berry Mojito and Blueberry Hard Lemonade, each supplemented by a chef’s pre-selected dessert.

Details available at www.finaledesserts.com.

What else?

Chanel Trunk Show
Neiman Marcus
5 Copley Place
Boston, MA
10 A.M.

ReadBoston Young Leaders Night
Game On!
82 Lansdowne Street
Boston, MA
6 P.M.

Wednesday, July 22

Swingin’ in Mothers Rest: A free jazz concert

Mothers Rest Playground
Boylston Street Bridge, Back Bay Fens
Boston, MA  (Map)
6 P.M.

Eric Waugh - art.com

It’s no secret that we here at DWITC are fans of live music … and things that are free.  So, when we heard that there would be a free jazz show in the Back Bay Fens, we had to share our excitement.

Keeping with tradition, Berklee College of Music, the Fenway Civic Association, and ParkARTS are putting on the 11th Annual Swingin’ in Mothers Rest outdoor jazz concert.  This year’s artists include vocalist Angel and trumpeter Billy Buss.

For more information, visit http://www.berklee.edu.

Do you want more?

Boston Ski & Sports Club Rooftop Mixer
Baseball Tavern
1270 Boylston Street
Boston, MA
6 P.M.

Wine-Tasting Cruise
Come Sail Away Now
Pier 6
Charlestown, MA

Thursday, July 23

Weekly Dig Remix Issue Release Party

Redline
59 JF Kennedy Street
Cambridge, MA
10 P.M.

going.com

If you’re anything like us, then there’s nothing like a bassline and the soothing sound of a record scratching to get you going in the A.M.  Techno lovers, rejoice … and be sure to visit the launch party for the Weekly Dig’s annual DJ Issue.

Featuring what some might describe as “a sick lineup,” the evening’s entertainment will include tunes from DJ Jayceeoh, Kon and Vuitton, Mr. Matt and DJ Ghostdad.

Keeping with the theme of things we love, the event is FREE!  Read all about it at going.com.

And also read about …

Sicilian Rising Star Tasting
The Wine Bottega
341 Hanover St.
Boston, MA
6 P.M.

Friday, July 24

Annual Boston Red Sox Event

Fenway Park
4 Yawkey Way
Boston, MA
5:30 P.M.

barrypricecenter.org

Benefiting the Barry L. Price Rehabilitation Center (a.k.a. Price Center), the Annual Boston Red Sox Event is proud to bring phenomenal food, prizes and, of course, baseball to its generous patrons and donors.  The evening begins with a dinner at the Best Buy Players Club within Fenway Park, followed by a raffle and a Red Sox vs. Orioles game.

Tickets are $125 (which includes dinner and a ticket to the game) and, as noted above, benefit the Price Center for individuals with developmental disabilities.  To purchase tickets, please visit http://www.barrypricecenter.org.

And check out …

MTVU Sunblock Music Festival
Suffolk Downs
111 Waldemar Avenue
East Boston, MA
5:30 P.M.

Red Sox Wives Can & Cash Drive to benefit the Greater Boston Food Bank
Fenway Park
4 Yawkey Way
Boston, MA
5 P.M.

Saturday, July 25

MTV Boston Harbor Cruise

63 Long Wharf
Boston, MA
6 P.M.

going.com

Remember “The Real World: Boston”?  Yeah, neither do we.  But this Saturday calls for dusting off some old “Real World” DVDs and re-acquainting ourselves with the casts of previous seasons.  Case in point:  Syrus, a member of the “The Real World: Boston” cast joins with other human syndicates this weekend for the MTV Boston Harbor Cruise.

Not a bad event, really:  $30 gets you three hours of on-board entertainment, followed by a V.I.P. party at the GoodBar on State Street.  For more information, visit going.com.

For the non-MTV crowd…

3rd Annual Peace of Pie Contest
Hyde Square Task Force
365 Centre Street
Jamaica Plain, MA
2 P.M.

Ooh…it’s HOT out there!

ndesign-studio.com

What an epic first half of July.  The sun has reappeared, the Sox won three consecutive games (knock on wood) and, finally, it actually feels like summer.  Huzzah!

There’s been some debate over the level of travel this summer, too.  Are people coming, going, or both?  Well, our once-again beautiful city has devised a brilliant plan to ensure those who must stay put still have a great time.  Most locals can’t recall quite as much celebration around Bastille Day, for example; but this year, restaurants, bars and hotels galore are reveling in the 1789 storming of a French prison.

Anyone who falls into a coma at the mere mention of history, however, can rest assured that there’s more to enjoy this week than Parisian observations.  So relax, read on and pick an event, any event, from the smorgasbord below.

Monday, July 13

Casting Call: America’s Biggest Asshole

Boston Casting
129 Braintree Street, Allston, MA
Through 4 P.M.

udoj.wordpress.com

Not be a traitor to our own kind, but a good chunk of Boston’s population can be identified as, er, less than pleasant at times.  It’s no wonder, then, that producers for a new reality TV series, “America’s Biggest Asshole,” are coming to town to seek out … well, the title speaks for itself.

Through 4 P.M. today (and on Wednesday, 6-9 P.M.), those with the charisma of a rabid pit bull can stop by the offices of Boston Casting in Allston.  Be sure to bring a photo, a bio and your grating personality.  For more information, visit bostoncasting.com.

In the mood for something a bit more charming?  Take a look at…

Tall Ships Celebration
Sel de la Terre
255 State Street, Boston, MA
Through 10 P.M.

Tuesday, July 14

The Official Bastille Day Party

Liberty Hotel
215 Charles Street, Boston, MA
9:00 P.M.

timesunion.com

As Bastille Day commemorates the liberation of thousands who were unfairly imprisoned, it’s only appropriate that Boston’s official celebration of the holiday takes place at the Liberty Hotel.  Every level of the gorgeous interior will be busting at the seams with French food and drink, as well as music from New York DJ Jean Michel.

Details available at frenchlib.org.

Also check out…

Bastille Day at the Beehive
541 Tremont Street, Boston, MA
5:00 P.M.

And for anyone playing hooky that day…

Back to the Beaches
Spectacle Island
Boston Harbor
10 A.M.

Wednesday, July 15

Dinner to Support Local Farmers

EVOO
118 Beacon Street, Somerville, MA
6:00 P.M.

peteandjensbackyardbirds.com

Sure, all the “cool” kids will be lining up at the movies to see the new Harry Potter flick, but what of us who don’t care much for wizardry?  We’ll all be heading to EVOO in Somerville for a fantastic dinner to support all things “Seasonal, Local, Sustainable.”  Owners from the local organic farm Pete and Jen’s Backyard Birds are partnering with EVOO chef Peter McCarthy to bring a delicious, eco-friendly meal to gastro-conscious patrons.

Seating is limited to 35, so be sure to get a reservation ASAP.  More information available on Boston.com.

Also see…

Concerts in the Courtyard: King Sunny Adé and his African Beats
MFA
465 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA
7:30 P.M.

Boston Landmarks Orchestra Festival: Opening Night
Hatch Shell
10 Storrow Drive, Boston, MA
7:00 P.M.

Thursday, July 16

Golden Ticket Giveaway

TD Garden
100 Legends Way, Boston, MA
12:00 P.M.

moneybegreen.com

We can’t think of anyone who doesn’t love the tale of Willy Wonka and his little friend Charlie.  Local executives seem to love it so much, in fact, that they’re bringing the story to life with their very own Golden Ticket Giveaway.

To celebrate the TD Garden’s recent re-naming/re-branding, thousands of limited-edition chocolate bars will be available at the venue this Thursday at noon.  Five of the chocolate bars will contain golden tickets, entitling the winner to an exclusive tour of the facility with “numerous surprises.”

For more information, visit tdgarden.com.

And there’s more…

17th Annual Block Party, Take II
José McIntyre’s
160 Milk Street, Boston, MA
5:00 P.M.

Fashionably Late with Laura Kacyvenski & Catalina de la Torre
Liberty Hotel
215 Charles Street, Boston, MA
8:00 P.M.

Friday, July 17

Talking Taste

ICA
100 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA
6:30 P.M.

icaboston.org

Join the Institute of Contemporary Arts (ICA) for yet another installment of Talking Taste: a monthly exhibition of some of Boston’s best and brightest chefs.

This month, Colin Lynch and John Gertsen will take over.  Lynch, whose career kicked off at No. 9 Park, joins forces with the restaurant’s “dangerous” bartender Gertsen for a fierce combination of food and drink.

Dinner is free with museum admission.  Details on the event and the chefs are available at icaboston.org.

Saturday, July 18

Boston Firefighter’s Burn Foundation Firefighter Cook-Off

Fenway Park State Street Pavilion
20 Yawkey Way, Boston, MA
4:00 P.M.

BFFBF.org

Picture this: It’s a hot, summer day in Boston and, in the temple of Fenway Park, dozens of firefighters are cooking up savory dishes.  Ladies?

It can all be yours this Saturday afternoon/evening at the Firefighter Cook-Off.  In addition to tasty bites…and cooks… the event will feature live entertainment, auctions (silent and live), a raffle and a cash bar.  What’s best?  While you’re drooling, you’ll be benefiting a great cause: Proceeds from the event will go to The Boston Firefighter’s Local 718 Burn Foundation.

Tickets are $50 and a limited number will be available at the door.  Questions?  Visit BFFBF.org or contact Kait at Red Arrow Communications.

You might also like…

Boston Rhythm Fest
Westin Copley Place
10 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA
7:00 P.M.

Johnny Cupcakes Presents: The Goonies
Coolidge Corner Theatre
290 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA
11:45 P.M.

3rd Annual VIP Platinum Boat Cruise
Boston Seaport Boat Charters
290 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA
10:00 P.M.

A Duck Could Be Somebody’s Mother

So… I bet anyone who’s ever thought, “Wow, I really wish that guy would stop yelling at me” during an Oxi-Clean commercial feels pretty bad right now.

We’re all supposed to be feeling festive; Independence Day is looming.   But instead, the celebrity deaths, bi-polar weather and poor economy have us all feeling like this woman:

bravotv.com

Well, no matter.  The city of Boston has planned numerous events to ensure that we all cheer up for the holiday weekend.  There are so many kick-ass things going on that we didn’t even bother mentioning the drab hours of Monday-Wednesday.  Rather, we encourage our readers to take a healthy approach to life during that time.  Get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water and eat your whole grains; come Thursday night and the dawn of an incredibly fun-packed weekend, you’ll be glad you did.  We can only hope that its arrival will have us feeling more like this:

holdensmith.com

Thursday, July 2

Baci & Abbracci Party

Rocca
500 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA
10 P.M.

msn.com

Described in the ‘08-‘09 Zagat guide as having cuisine “prepared with an expert touch,” South End gem Rocca is quickly becoming one of the city’s hottest places to dine and party.  Case in point: This Thursday, Rocca kicks off the holiday weekend with the glam Baci & Abbracci Party, featuring music from DJ Francesco Spagna and TMG. Guests are advised to leave their egos at the door; hosts are summing up the event with the simple words, “No cover, no attitude, no dress code, and no anchovies.”

Capacity is limited, so get on the list now by emailing rocca.parties@gmail.com.

Also check out…

Fashionably Late with designer Jennifer Reale
Liberty Hotel
215 Charles Street, Boston, MA
8 P.M.

Pre-Independence Day Bash
Kings
50 Dalton Street, Boston, MA
9 P.M.

Jazz in July
Ivy
49 Temple Place, Boston, MA
5:30 P.M.

Illumina Records Pre-4th of July Bash
Oliver’s @ The Cask n’ Flagon
62 Brookline Avenue, Boston, MA
7 P.M.

Friday, July 3

Movies By Moonlight

Boston Harbor Hotel
70 Rowes Wharf on Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA
7 P.M.

boston.com

Few would argue that there is a more romantic spot in this city than the Boston Harbor Hotel’s sweeping archway by the water.  The hotel has, once again, outdone itself and added entertainment to the spectacular view with its Summer in the City series.  This Friday, the hotel will play Dark Victory, a 1939 classic starring Bette Davis and Humphrey Bogart.

Can’t make it this week?  Movies By Moonlight occurs every Friday night through September 4.  For more information, have a look at the hotel’s Summer in the City information guide.

You might also like…

Boston Pops Preview Concert
DCR Hatch Memorial Shell
10 Storrow Drive, Boston, MA
8:30 P.M.

Pirate Booty Boat Party
Rowes Wharf
70 Rowes Wharf Boston, MA
6 P.M.

Boston Harborfest – Party on the Plaza
City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA
6 P.M.

Saturday, July 4

Dancing on the Charles

Marsh Post 442 @ the American Legion Bridge
1 Gerrys Landing Road, Cambridge, MA (map)
1 P.M. – 1 A.M.

soulclap.us

We have to admit that $20 for a 12-hour party is a pretty good deal, especially when that party takes place right next to the Charles and comes equipped with food, outdoor games and a lineup of at least 10 DJs.  That’s just what Dancing on the Charles (DOTC) had in mind for this 4th of July.  And since they’ve got tents, the event will go on rain or shine.

Event is 21+.  For more information, visit www.dancingonthecharles.com.

In addition to the fireworks, you should also see…

Margarita’s Mystery Cruise
Mystery Café @ Boston Harbor Cruises
One Long Wharf, Boston, MA
7 P.M.

Sunday, July 5

28th Annual Chowderfest

City Hall Plaza, Boston, MA
11 A.M.

bostonharborfest.com

Ugh.  Head … hurts.  Well, peel yourself out of bed and drag your Bostonian butt over to City Hall Plaza for the 28th Annual Chowderfest.  This year’s competitors include Boston Beer Works, House of Blues and Sauciety.

The even runs until 6 P.M., so those who are feeling a bit, um, under the weather will have all afternoon to show up.  Maybe all that thick chowda will make ya head feel betta!

For more information and special offers, visit http://www.bostonharborfest.com/chowderfest.html.

Archfrenemies

Dear Nature,

blogspot.com

Certain language is avoided here on DWITC.   The use of such terms as “fark” and “crap” are more likely to be seen than their alternatives.  However, your recent conduct has caused some less-than-preferable behavior and events.  Cruises, outdoor parties and other annual traditions have been cancelled due to your indiscretion; more local residents are seen every day with facial expressions indicating an inner monologue of, “If I left right now, I could hang myself from the Zakim Bridge before rush hour.”

So, Nature, because you have created such grief, the profanity embargo has been lifted and we will hesitate no longer to say:  You need to get the fuck over yourself and act like it’s June, asshole.

We know you’ll take our advice.  After all, if your course of action continues as it has at present, it will make us want to CUT A BITCH.  In the meantime, however, we’ll continue featuring both indoor and outdoor events, ones that would be better with a big yellow thing protruding from the sky, but can still go on without it.  Because, really, at the end of the day, we’re still Red Sox fans.  We’ve been through worse than a little rain.

XOXO,
Dirty Water in the City

Monday, June 22

National Pollinator Week Celebration

Miel
510 Atlantic Avenue, Boston, MA
5 P.M.

intercontinentalboston.com

Pollination is a process crucial to our ecosystem; in fact, the Pollinator Partnership estimates that honeybees alone “pollinate products amounting to $20 billion annually in the U.S.”  That’s why they, along with birds, bats, butterflies, moths and other insects are being honored for their work as pollinators through June 28.

Miel at the waterfront’s Intercontinental Hotel kicks off the weeklong celebration tonight with a special ‘Taste of Miel’ menu that brings together the taste of honey (which is what the restaurant’s name means in French) with other culinary samplings from Provence.

The prix fixe menu is $38 per person, or $56 per person with a wine pairing.  For more information, visit Miel’s official website.

And also check out…

The 10th Annual Doug Flutie, Jr. Celebrity Golf Classic Pre-Party
Hard Rock Café
22-24 Clinton Street, Boston, MA

Tuesday, June 23

Comics Against Cancer

Somerville Theatre
55 Davis Square, Somerville, MA
8 P.M.

comicsagainstcancer.org

Join Gail Baker, author of Cancer is a Bitch and a lineup of eight other funny guys/gals for an evening of comedy for a cause.  The show is the first major fundraising event for the self-described “grassroots organization” Comics Against Cancer; proceeds benefit the AstraZeneca Hope Lodge Center.

Tickets are $20-$30, available through Ticketmaster.

Wednesday, June 24

American Brewery Lofts Open House

American Brewery Lofts Courtyard
251 Heath Street, Jamaica Plain, MA
5 P.M.

americanbrewerylofts.com

Seeing as Boston is the home to such beer pioneers as Samuel Adams and the Harpoon company, it was only a matter of time before someone thought of using a brewery as a home, too.  The Procaccianti Group and Commonwealth Ventures would like to introduce their latest development: the American Brewery Lofts, what is sure to be the latest in upscale, chic urban living.

Join the developers and other brains behind the community on Wednesday night for a free open house, complete with food, drinks and a D.J.  For more information, visit www.americanbrewerylofts.com.

Also see…

A Globe of Small Bites cooking class
Haley House Café
12 Dade Street, Roxbury, MA
6:30 P.M.

Thursday, June 25

“Surf’s Up” at The Reef’s Finally Summer Beach Party and Live Blue Fashion Show

The Reef in the New England Aquarium Plaza
One Central Wharf, Boston, MA
5:30 P.M.

neaq.org

Free appetizers, refreshing cocktails, live music and fashion … there’ll be a little something for everyone at The Reef come Thursday night.  Clothing and accessories will be showcased from Faneuil Hall’s Sun Spot, where all items are made from organic materials. Fashion Boston contributor Lisa Pierpont will serve as the event’s emcee, also featuring entertainment from Mix 98.7.

Of note …

New England Clambake
Long Wharf
Boston, MA, 02110
6:30 P.M.

Friday, June 26

The Phantom Gourmet BBQ Beach Party

Suffolk Downs
111 Waldemar Avenue, East Boston, MA
11 A.M. – 11 P.M.

phantomgourmet.com

Grillin’ rockstars from Texas to Australia will be stopping in to Eastie for the Phantom Gourmet’s annual BBQ Beach Party.  In addition to good, smokin’ eats from the BBQ stars themselves, joints like Upper Crust, Strega and Fuddruckers will be providing snacks and desserts, as well.  Add a couple of beer gardens and mechanical bulls to the equation and, well, you’ve got yourself a party.

Tickets are available online or at such local retailers as iParty, Upper Crust and Tedeschi Food Shops for $5 in advance.  Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $11.  For more information, visit http://bbq.phantomgourmet.com.

And have a look at …

Cambridge City Dance Party
795 Mass Ave., in front of Cambridge City Hall
7 P.M.
FREE!

And…

Talking Taste
ICA
100 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA
6:30 P.M.
FREE with museum admission!

Saturday, June 27

Rock and Blues Cruise

Boston Harbor Cruise terminal at Long Wharf
Boston, MA, 02110
Cruise 1 – 5:30 P.M.
Cruise 2 – 9:30 P.M.

rockandbluescruise.com

Ahoy, music enthusiasts!  Rock & Blues Concert Cruises returns for another weekend at sea, this time with Cambridge’s own Ryan Montbleau Band.  Cruises typically are three hours long and do not have reserved seating, making for a fantastic night of mingling.

Check out the Bon Voyage pre-parties at nearby spot The Landing, starting at 3:30 and 7:30 P.M., respectively.  Keep a close eye on the time, though; from what we’ve heard, you don’t want to miss the boat.

Tickets are $27, available at www.rockandbluescruise.com.

Check out music from the Ryan Montbleau Band here.