Shy Bird, Orfano, Pagu, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because this counter-service sibling to Branch Line serves the same sugar snap pea salad as its big sister. Shy Bird also brings whole rotisserie chickens, prime beef briskets, and lamb gyros to Kendall Square. Make a Resy to score one of the few reserved seats in the house, and get comfortable with a carafe of rosé.

Because Fenway queen Tiffani Faison has expanded her culinary kingdom once again. Her new concept explores upscale yet familiar Italian-American fare in glitzy surroundings. Keep it homey with an order of Nonna’s garlic bread and rigatoni Bolognese, or indulge in a 35-day dry-aged ribeye and a stiff selection from the roving Martini cart.

For reservations, contact the restaurant at (617) 916-9600.

Because the minds behind Ganko Ittetsu Ramen have opened a haven for Japanese street food snacks. In contrast to the joint in Coolidge Corner, Gantetsu-Ya serves non-broth-based fare, including fried octopus balls and okonomiyaki.

Walk-ins only.

Because this irreverent new addition to Beacon Hill’s dining landscape now serves lunch. Plan an afternoon Resy to partake in mid-day fare including a duck confit sandwich with fennel slaw and dry-aged sirloin steak frites with green romesco.

Because the long-vacant Townsman space has been turned into a comfort food hangout helmed by a Lulu’s Allston vet. Pick at vegan pork rinds or everything-bagel-popcorn before moving on to heartier fare—like mac & cheese with house-smoked pork and Ritz cracker-crusted fried chicken.

For reservations, call the restaurant at (617) 936-3079.

Because there are only so many days of outdoor dining left on the calendar, and this Central Square destination for Japanese tapas features one of the best patios in Cambridge. Take your spot in the open air, and order the squid ink oyster bao, tempura Brussels sprouts, and curry crab croquetas.

Because the latest South End venture from the team behind Shore Leave and No Relation has debuted its weekday dinner specials. Highlights include veal schnitzel on Tuesdays, local steamers on Wednesdays, and prime rib of beef on Saturdays.  

For reservations, call the restaurant at (617) 982-6330.

Because Union Square’s premier destination for German fare is holding an Oktoberfest of its own from September 19th to October 13th. Expect live music, Weihenstephaner by the liter, and suds-soaking specials like sausage-stuffed pretzels and a 12-hour smoked turkey leg.

Because the team responsible for BISq has expanded into the taco business. At this casual new spot near Boston University, decide between fillings like beef tongue and goat stew, and leave room for churros dripping with dulce de leche. 

Walk-ins only.

Because this Chinatown spot from the Shōjō team has a new trio of boba tea cocktails. Choose a maple Bourbon milk tea, a rum matcha, or a taro mezcal, and follow it up with Maine lobster wontons and Szechuan Bolognese.