Melrose’s Geoff Thompson has something of a dream job. As the resident beer czar (yes) for gastro-brasserie Foundry on Elm and its speakeasy sister, Saloon, the 38-year-olds makes sure your frosty pint is as well-crafted, hand-picked andinteresting as any fancy cocktail. When Thompson isn’t cherry-picking the beer program for his two Davis Square haunts, he’s digging in at everyone’s favorite secret (but really, not-so-secret) sushi join in Harvard Square. Best late night meal?
The Franklin Cafe in the South End — it’s one of the few places around townthat stillserves their full menu until 1:30 a.m.every night, and it’s alldelicious. 278 Shawmut Ave., Boston, franklincafe.com. Best meal under $5?
The pretzels at Harpoon Brewery’s Beer Hall are insanely tasty. They come in a variety of sweet and savory flavors with tons of dipping sauces — aiolis, mustards, cheese. 306 Northern Ave., Boston, harpoonbrewery.com. Best hidden gem?
I recently discovered Café Sushi in Harvard and was blown away by thequality and selection — plus, they have a huge saké list and excellent service. 1105 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, cafesushicambridge.com. Place you always take or recommend for out-of-towners?
Row 34 is a must for guests to try to avoid touristy”chowdah and lobstah” traps. Plus, their beer list is always top-notch. 383 Congress St., Boston, row34.com. Best place to catch up with friends?
Working in Davis, my go-to has to be Sligo Pub. It’s just good people all around in there, and even though the crowd has changed a bit over the years, the staff keep the dive character alive. 237 Elm St., Somerville, (617) 625-4477. Most Instagrammable restaurant in town?
Yvonne’s is the most beautiful restaurant I have ever walked into. All of the “Feasts for 2+” dishes are incredibly photogenic and tasty. 2 Winter Pl., Boston, yvonnesboston.com.