I am a big fan of Ole' and their guacamole that is prepared tableside. Considering Boston has a severe shortage of quality mexican food, Ole was an enjoyable upscale Mexican experience. The margaritas are a nice touch as well.

I, too, recently got take-out from Gennaro's and was pleasantly surprised. I took a chicken parm sandwich to go and I was impressed with the quality of the red sauce (always the most critical element). My wife got the Chicken, Broccoli and Ziti pasta in white wine sauce which was really delicious - probably one of the best I'd had in a long time. The quality and simplicity of Gennaro's reminded me of the Italian stores I frequented growing up in Northern NJ with the mom-and-pop shops. And yes, it was also very affordable.

These suggestions are excellent. Definitely laughed out loud with hiddenbostons, "So long, Belt!" comment. Forget the salad bar and side dishes, bring on the meat. Kowloon is particularly an excellent suggestion - one look at the list of "celebrities" makes it a worthwhile trip. Chuck Knoblauch "sports celebrity"? Or the two token Playmates and their pictures. Excellent!

I need your suggestions of where to have fun, get fat, and wear elastic-waist pants. I am thinking about having 10 or so of my borderline-alcoholic friends in their late-20s meet up for my birthday dinner.

One thought that came to mind was a Brazilian Churrascaria (BBQ) in Allston - am I thinking of Green Field? In DC they have Fogo de Chao on Pennsylvania Avenue which was excellent and so I am hoping Boston has something similar. Any recommendations on this place?

I also encourage other ideas too. Just remember, elastic-waist-pants-friendly, please.

Opinionatedchef: sorry it took so long to reply. I am a huge fan of Kinkead's and Colvin Run Tavern in DC run by Sibling Rivalry's Bob Kinkead. Both are highly rated in DC and very popular for special occasions.

I am dissapointed to hear your Sibling Rivalry experience did not live up to expectations - I have been dying to go. Does everyone else here feel the same way about SR or have their been good reviews?

My wife and I recently moved to the Boston region and I must thank all the contributors to Chowhound for helping us acclimate to the culinary hotspots of Boston! I must say I had one of the most pleasant dining experiences at the Navy Yard Bistro in Charlestown on Friday night. Thanks again for your tips, we chose the Navy Yard Bistro and it did not disappoint. We only wish we lived closer - the menu was simple but very enjoyable and delicious. The service was among the best we had experienced in Boston. The owner, John Moore, was very pleasant and introduced himself to our table and ended up talking to us for quite sometime. Great wine list, great food - we strongly recommend it!