This small bakery and sweet shop in the historic North End of Boston will draw you in with the heavenly scents that waft out into the street. Find all your favorite Italian pastries, from handmade cannolis and eclairs to sugary cookies. The real treats are the chocolates inside the glass cases: nougat and almonds, hand-made peanut butter cups and dark chocolate bars entice passersby. You won't be able to leave this confectioner empty-handed.
Appropriately situated along the Boston Harbor waterfront, this expansive gallery has the finest collection of model sailing ships in the country. Tall clipper ships compete for your attention with smaller vessels, but you should take the time to see each one up close—the detail in these new and antique models is simply amazing. Lannan Ship Model Gallery also showcases fine nautical paintings and prints, as well as nautical equipment from ships of yesteryear.
Boston Pewter Company has a stunning selection of real pewter craftsmanship. Wine glasses with ornate pewter stems are perfect for a wedding gift or your own dining room table, while delicate picture frames and exquisite jewelry are displayed on glass shelves. Quaint trinkets also include potpourri jars, jewelry boxes and candlestick holders. A selection of scrimshaw ornaments is available. A helpful staff is on hand to answer your questions and make excellent suggestions.
Rare book expert Kenneth Gloss runs this show, so you can be sure to find some rather unusual titles at Brattle Book Shop. Non-collectors enjoy this large store for the selection of inexpensive, used paperbacks. Do not leave without admiring the mural outside, which depicts various authors from Dr. Seuss to Toni Morrison.
This North End liquor store opened its doors in 2005 and is truly a gem in the neighborhood. The Wild Duck though not huge, has a good collection of beers from all over the nation, Italian liqueurs and other fine liquors.