Flour Bakery + Cafe

"For a quick, delicious sandwich, treat, or coffee, head to this excellent mini-chain (with eight locations in total) that serves great breakfast and lunch options, including a warming miso tofu noodle bowl, avocado toast with cotija cheese, and the absolute best sticky buns in Boston (and maybe on the East Coast). With kid-friendly vibes, this is a great place to eat in or grab a coffee and a bright, flavorful lunch to take to the Esplanade for an impromptu hang. photo credit: Tina Picz" - Tanya Edwards

"The thing about being a known entity applies to Flour, too. And, judging by the lines in this place every day from 12-2, there aren’t a lot of people we need to tell Flour about. But if you’re someone who’s been wondering if waiting in line is worth it, we’re here to tell you that it absolutely is. They have a large regular selection of sandwiches, salads, and bowls that are really good. This is also a place where it’s really hard to pass by the dessert case without stopping, so do yourself a favor and don’t even try to." - dan secatore

"Sure, go to Flour for the sticky buns, but stay for the fiery hot chocolate. The rich beverage brings the fire with some chile powder and cayenne pepper accents. Also keep an eye out for specials, like a white hot chocolate. There are nine locations around Boston and Cambridge." - Dana Hatic, Rachel Leah Blumenthal

"In the midst of piles of croissants, cookies, brownies, and all manner of pastries, Flour Bakery + Cafe — which has eight locations around Boston and Cambridge — also has a selection of pies available whole or by the slice, with varieties including chocolate cream, coconut cream, and lemon meringue." - Dana Hatic