For a quick, delicious sandwich, treat, or coffee, head to this excellent mini-chain (with eight locations in total) that serves great breakfast and lunch options, including a warming miso tofu noodle bowl, avocado toast with cotija cheese, and the absolute best sticky buns in Boston (and maybe on the East Coast). With kid-friendly vibes, this is a great place to eat in or grab a coffee and a bright, flavorful lunch to take to the Esplanade for an impromptu hang.

photo credit: Tina Picz