A charm in the harbor

In plain sight on its waterfronts (and from above), a small historic town thrives

March 28, 2010|Ami Albernaz, Globe Correspondent
(Page 3 of 3)

“Businesses run by people born and raised here have been very receptive to the newer ones,’’ says Levins, who moved to Winthrop from Cambridge about 18 years ago. “One of the things that strikes me is that the newer businesses have thrived, but the older businesses have, too.’’

If you’re in the mood to shop, in addition to Luna Boutique(3 Bartlett Road, 617-846-4644, www.lunaboutiqueonline.com), which sells jewelry, tableware, handbags, and bath and body products, there’s the small but charming Winthrop Book Depot & Cafe(11 Somerset Ave., 617-846-3099), which carries New York Times bestsellers, Oprah’s Book Club picks, paperback mysteries, and a sizable selection of children’s books and some games. Stitches by the Sea(66 Woodside Ave., 617-846-2195, www.stitchesbythesea.net) sells yarn, needlework supplies, and jewelry, and Katie’s Infants & Toddlers(32 Woodside Ave., 617-846-6010) sells clothing for little ones. (Some shops close early, so late morning or early afternoon is the best time to visit.)

If you prefer the outdoors, head to Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, site of Boston’s last remaining salt marsh. The park’s entrance is on Bennington Street in East Boston. The reservation is a peaceful oasis from the city, and a favorite spot for bird watchers (617-727-5350 or www.mass.gov/dcr/parks/metroboston/belleisle.htm).If you’re visiting between May and October, you can also arrange a kayak outing with Belle Isle Kayak Adventures, which offers marsh tours, Boston Harbor tours, kayak fishing, and other options tailored to interests and level of expertise. (Book tours a few days in advance. 617-719-2036 for hours and rates; www.belleislekayakadventures.com.)

If evening finds you still in town, head over to Cafe Rossetti’s(115 Winthrop Shore Drive, 617-539-9990), which serves superb Italian food in an unpretentious atmosphere. The restaurant, like some others in Winthrop, is BYOB; most entrees cost between $11.95 and $19.95. Or, if you’re heading out before dinner, first find a perch at the small Simon J. Donovan Beach on Pleasant Street, near the East Boston border, and engage in a local (and totally free) pastime, plane spotting.

Ami Albernaz can be reached at ami.albernaz@gmail.com.

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