City Scout: Boston

City Scout is a blog series where we invite our savviest Brass babes to share their favorite, lesser-known spots in their local city or town. Our first City Scout is Kendal Kelly who lives in Boston.

My spot for early release on a summer Friday.

Daedalus. Two words: Roof. Deck. One of my Harvard Square favorites, Daedalus is housed in what used to be a greenhouse, with bars on both floors. It’s not right along Mass Ave, so most of the tourists never even notice this place. With gorgeous views of the surrounding Harvard buildings (I’m a sucker for red brick), their roof deck is a great place to unwind on a summer Friday but is also one of my consistently favorite spots for outdoor brunch on Sundays.

My Sunday afternoon go-to for a group of friends, rain or shine.

Met Back Bay has hosted many a sweaty post-BAA 5K/10K race brunch for my crew of friends because let’s be honest, nothing rehydrates you better than a custom Bloody Mary. I definitely recommend booking ahead, as with any Newbury Street establishment, the wait will be long if you try to chance it. Some of fave items on the menu: the Cap’t Crunch French Toast & California Hen House Hash. The food is super filling, so I recommend wearing pants with some stretch!

My absolute favorite, but underappreciated, restaurant.

Yankee Lobster. This little joint started out decades ago as a fish market (which it still is today) but also serves as a great casual dining spot when you get a lobster craving. My dad is now a die hard fan and demands a trip whenever my folks are in town. It doesn’t have the same ambiance that you’ll get at my other fave local establishment, The Barking Crab, but you’ll pay about a quarter of the price. I’m a casual gal so I happen to like drinking my Harpoon from a plastic cup. Bonus perk: Yankee’s proximity to the Blue Hills Pavilion means free live music if you snag patio seating on a performance night.  

When I need to get my exercise on I head here.

Aircraft Aerial Arts. The lovely folks at this Somerville studio make your dream of running away to the circus a reality. This is adult playtime that builds some serious muscles. As much as I love my yoga and barre classes, holding up my entire body weight on the silks, trapeze, and lycra is the only way I truly disconnect from my daily stresses and focus on what is happening right in front of me. Even if you don’t want the commitment of signing up for their typical 8-week sessions, I recommend everyone try a one-time “taster” class – or even book a private lesson for you & some friends, which is what I did for my 27th birthday.

If I’m looking to get pampered or an awesome blow-out, this is where I go.

MZ Skincare. I’ve struggled with skin issues for most of my life (#geneticlottery), but I always leave feeling amazing after getting a facial at MZ. Owned by badass Brazilian native, Marianne Zullas, this little gem is tucked away in Chestnut Hill. I’ve been seeing esthetician Josh Taylor there for several years, and even though I’ve moved to the other side of the river, this place is worth the trek. Best part? I always leave smelling like a bomb dot com aromatherapy candle.

Love where you live and want to share your favorite spots? Email us to be considered for a City Scout post.