Globe Corner Blogs

Okay, so some people blog about things of greater consequence — vacations or…beer — but unfortunately I lead a relatively boring life, so here are some of the places in Boston to get that ultimate cheap street food: the humble burrito. This is more for the newcomer or visitor to Boston than a resident, so I will not be listing any of the national chains (eat local folks). A further note, if you’re from the West Coast or elsewhere you may have the idea that Mexican food on the East Coast is terrible, which might or might not be true, you’re just going to have to deal either way. Also be warned, these are my picks, no one else’s.

1) El Pelon: El Pelon Taqueria, 92 Peterborough St. (between Jersey and Kilmarnock Sts.), in the Fenway is one of my all-time favorite burrito places outside of the West Coast or Southwest. Nothing is better on a summer afternoon than hitting up El Pelon before heading over to Fenway Park to watch the Sox. Lines can be long, especially on game days, but they move fast, and if you move faster you can snag a seat. Very good salsa and fresh ingredients. I’ve been told the fish tacos are very good, and they’re on my list for next time. Pelon has the added benefit of being significantly cheaper (and more filling) than anything comparable you’ll find inside the Park or on the nearby Yawkey Way, so you have more cash for beer and peanuts.

2) Anna’s Taqueria: Anna’s, at various locations throughout the city, is right behind Fenway Park on the list of places I consider my church.

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Round Ireland with a Fridge by Tony Hawks

In no particular order, these are some of my favorite books currently in the store:

1. Round Ireland with a Fridge, by Tony Hawks. Man gets drunk in a pub, man makes silly bet with buddy that he can hitchhike around Ireland accompanied by a mini-fridge (that’s right, a mini-fridge). Hilarity ensues, along with a bizarre and unexpected national celebrity. See the fridge surf; see the fridge blessed by nuns. Great beach read, or even anywhere else where breaking into fits of uncontrollable giggles is considered acceptable. Funnier than a drunk monkey. (Sorry PETA.)

2. Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight: An African Childhood, by Alexandra Fuller. A beautifully written, challenging memoir of Fuller’s childhood in Africa in the last years of the white regime in Rhodesia and its transformation after independence into Zimbabwe. Unsparing in her examination of the racism that underlay her childhood as well as the tragedies and triumphs of her family, she shows the flawed humanity of all involved. One of the best personal narratives I’ve read in quite some time. Continue Reading »