Worcester’s Fun & Funky Neighborhoods

By Linnea Sheldon

college-shuffle-shrews-st — College Shuffle on Shrewsbury St.

Worcester is one of those great cities that has something for everyone ~ whether you’re talking about food, clubs, entertainment, parks, special events, culture, whatever, we’ve got it ~ and here in Woo, “it” comes in all shapes, sizes, and varieties. Anyone who has lived here for more than a week can tell you that you never have to experience a dull moment ~ and for those of you who are new to the city because you’re just starting school here, A) WELCOME! and B) here’s a rundown of all the different neighborhoods and what you’ll find in them…so get some [old or new] friends together and start exploring ~ I guarantee you’ll find places in each neighborhood that’ll really catch your attention, and after a little exploring, sampling, and checking out the vibe of each, chances are you’ll wind up finding one that suits your style best. And always keep an eye out (by reading Pulse, of course!) for new businesses opening in every neighborhood ~ that’s another advantage of living in Worcester, great new hang-outs are cropping up every week!

College Shuffle on Shrewsbury St.

SHREWSBURY STREET

Shrewsbury Street is always teeming with activity ~ day or night, summer or winter. Whether you want to check out one of the many Italian restaurants the area is known for, have a latte, break a sweat, or just relax, you’ll find just the right place to do it in this neighborhood.

New in town and looking for a laid-back way to bond with your roommate? A great way to check out the area is to participate in the Annual Shrewsbury Street College Shuffle taking place Sat., Sept. 12 from noon to 3 p.m. The Colleges of Worcester Consortium and the Shrewsbury Street Merchants’ Association are partnering for the 3rd annual shuffle ~ over 20 restaurants are participating with food tastings, there will be all sorts of artists’ booths set up, there will be college performances groups entertaining the masses, and free transportation will be provided from most of the area campuses. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 the day of the event. www.cowc.org/college-student-resources/college-shuffle

For those with a sweet tooth, you will have no problem satisfying your cravings in this neighborhood. Why not stop at Sweet, an upscale pastry shop and dessert bar/lounge located at 305 Shrewsbury St. They offer amazing desserts, gelato, a full bar with designer cocktails, and an intimate setting perfect for date night, or try their Girls’ Nite Out Pastry and Wine pairing classes that are held on the third Tuesday of every month. www.sweetworcester.com

On the other end of the street be sure to check out Caffe Dolce, located at 154 Shrewsbury St. This quaint cafe serves every kind of dessert you can imagine, along with lattes, iced drinks, wines, espresso martinis, and liquor.

Not too far away is Allgos Sweets and Drinks, an upscale dessert bar and lounge. Their comfortable atmosphere is the perfect place to get together and relax over their specialized desserts and unique infused liquors. www.allgoslounge.com

In the mood for some Italian? Why not try one (or all) of the many restaurants that dot the area. The perfect setting to take your parents, try Via, Leo’s Ristorante, or Piccolo’s Restaurant for some delicious, authentic Italian dishes. www.viaitaliantable.com, www.leosristorante.net, www.piccolos157.com

Looking for something a little different? Why not try Mezcal Cantina at 166 Shrewsbury St. This is the place to go for traditional Mexican plates with the colors and flavors of the increasingly popular Southwestern U.S. cuisine. Their extensive tequila list and outdoor seating is perfect for those warm fall evenings. www.mezcalcantina.com

Head to Morocco for a taste ~ literally and figuratively! ~ of the Middle East…food, live belly dancers, great ambiance, ethnic music…a definite must for anyone who likes to be transported to far away lands while staying close to home! www.moroccoworcester.com

Craving Chinese food? Head to Red Lantern at choose something from their huge menu…and don’t forget (if you’re over 21!) to pair it with a yummy drink. The restaurant has tons of seating, a bar, and a no-rush, laid back feel, so it’s perfect for small or large groups…or even a late-night date. www.theredlantern.com

Funky Murphy’s isn’t too far away either. Located at 305 Shrewsbury St., this is the place to go for great food in a cool, contemporary atmosphere. It’s like a modern day Irish pub complete with entertainment seven days a week. Want to check out the place first before heading over? funkymurphys.com

The Flying Rhino Café at 278 Shrewsbury St. is another interesting stop on your route. Featuring an eclectic menu, outdoor seating, and a fun atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to start the night. www.flyingrhinocafe.com

Make sure to check out Junior’s Pizza Grille with a group of friends. They offer the freshest and highest quality ingredients, and a unique menu that offers much more than pizza. Located at 346 Shrewsbury St., their indoor/outdoor atmosphere is a great way to enjoy the sun no matter what the temperature. Be sure to check out their new addition, Junior’s Produce & Deli, right next door. www.juniorspizzagrille.com

One thing you’ll notice about all these places on Shrewsbury Street ~ everyone seems to know everyone ~ from restaurant owners to bartenders to clientele, there’s a great family feeling, a sense that you’re amongst friends no matter where you go. It’s hard to walk down the street without waving at a handful of people who just want to say hello, how’s it goin’.

Need to burn off some of this great food? You’ll scorch calories at the CrossFit Center Mass, located at 356 Shrewsbury Street. According to the website, “CrossFit is a core strength and conditioning program. The CrossFit prescription is “…constantly varied, high-intensity, functional movement.” www.crossfitcentermass.com

Into body art? While you’re in the area, why not check out the Piercing Emporium for some body modification. They are located at 400 Shrewsbury St and offer safe piercing and tattooing. www.piercingemporium.com

Get ready for your nights out at Paul Conzo Day Spa and Hair Salon at 490 Shrewsbury St. “We are dedicated to providing the finest quality services in a relaxed, caring, soothing atmosphere. We also use the highest quality professional products and offer the very best in salon and spa services.” Can’t ask for much more than that when you’ve got a special date that night, right? Some relaxation, some pampering, some va-voom! www.paulconzo.com

Finish off your look at Spoil’d over at 305 Shrewsbury St. They have all the latest trends and fabulous accessories to help you complete your look. You don’t have to go to L.A. to dress like your favorite celeb! www.shopspoild.com

Late night or early morning, the place to be is the Boulevard Diner at 155 Shrewsbury St. Dating back to 1937, the original Worcester Lunch Car Company diner serves breakfast all day, every day, as well as other Italian favorites. Meet up with your friends and just hang!

Blackstone Tap on Water St.

THE CANAL DISTRICT

The Canal District has become the place to be over recent years. There is never a lack of things to do in this neighborhood, and with CanalFest 2009 (the 4th annual), coming up on September 12, what better way to get to know the area? The event, celebrating the historic Blackstone Canal, takes place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Roxann Horton, festival Chairperson explains, “…We have taken the best from each year and expanded upon it. We know you like music, therefore we offer world class performances on the main stage and local talent on our second stage, which proved to be hugely successful last year.” Horton continues, “And let’s not forget all the additional and fun aspects of the festival which include arts, crafts and lots of food vendors, kids’ activities-including making little boats to float in the canal replica, horse-and-wagon rides, historic information, an all-day raffle and kayak rides on the canal exhibit itself.”

While you’re there, check out the Worcester Pride celebration that runs from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The Boiler Room Industrial Lounge at 70 Winter St. is one of the newest and hottest places to be in the Canal District. Owner Selim has created a club reminiscent of the best that NYC’s Chelsea neighborhood had to offer ~ beautiful people, a fantastic international vibe, the most popular DJs and bands from Worcester to New York and beyond…Want to see and be seen? This is the place ~ whether you’re inside or outside in the one-of-a-kind courtyard. Check www.myspace.com/boilerroomworcester for special nights, contents, and events.

Not yards away at 82 Winter St is Bocado Tapas Wine Bar. As Worcester’s first authentic Spanish Tapas Bar and Restaurant, their menu features over 40 different tapas. They also have a champagne bar, “Cava,” and both sides of the restaurant feature a very cool, hip vibe, extraordinary service, gorgeous artwork lining the walls, and live entertainment. www.bocadotapasbar.com

While getting to know the Canal District, make sure to stop in at The Emerald Isle Restaurant on Millbury St. ~ great food, karaoke, live entertainment, and they even provide free soft drinks all night for designated drivers. www.emeraldisleworc.com.

Need a little primping and pampering? Why not treat your body to some of the services at Jeffrey Roberts Salon and Spa? Located in a unique setting at 1 Kelley Square, the fun atmosphere and talented staff are sure to make your experience a pleasant one. www.jeffreyrobertsalon.com

Green St. is all about nightlife. Enjoy live entertainment at The Lucky Dog Music Hall for hard rock, prog-rock, open mic nights, comedy, a cool 70s cover band, Bar Bingo, general good-natured debauchery, and more (yup, this is the same place where the Rolling Stones played!), check out the area’s best craft beer selection at The Dive Bar, kick back and relax at the Centre Bar and Grille or the Banner Bar & Grille. You’re sure to find something going on every night of the week in this section of the city that never sleeps! www.luckydogmusic.com, thedivebarworcester.com, www.thecenterbar.com/, www.thebannerbar.com.

Over at 139 Green St., be sure to check out Block 5 Bistro Bar for some modern updates on your favorite comfort foods, as well as delicious cocktails. This is another good example of a chic restaurant and bar that knows just how to cultivate a feeling of “cool” without going overboard. www.block5bistro.com

When you’re on Green Street one night, head to Creegan’s Pub ~ pool tables and dart boards, live
entertainment, food and a terrific beer selection await you. As they say, it’s “…Where the good times flow.” www.creeganspub.com.

There are plenty of other places to check out in the area including one of Worcester’s newest vintage shops, The Nostalgia Exchange, at 19 Harrison St. Enjoy browsing for that perfect and unique item, and once you find it you will be pleasantly surprised by how affordable it is!

In the mood for Italian food (including some of the most delicious pizza around)? Head to Roma’s at 192 Harding Street ~ and just remember it’s BYOB.

The Salty Dog Saloon at One Kelly Square is a fun place to get a little (or a lot!) wild. Featuring a full bar, fun decorations, a pool table, and even a mechanical bull for those adventurous patrons, this is a great place to enjoy the college experience off-campus. www.saltydogsaloon.net

If you’re looking for a great place to get some wings in Worcester, even late night, look no further than Wings Over Worcester right in Kelley Square. With almost 20 flavors of wings, and 5 levels of heat for their Buffalo wings, as well as ribs, sandwiches, and all the fixings, you’re sure to curb your late night cravings with eat-in, take-out, and delivery. www.wingsover.com/states/MA.shtml

Blu Ultralounge & Nightclub is a fun place to party, with great entertainment that is just a little out of the ordinary. Foam parties, drag queens, and plenty of dancing ~ these are just some of the things you can expect from Blu, head over for an experience like no other. www.blu-nightclub.com

Go Bare is the newest place in town to check out for all your hair removal needs and more! Aside from all sorts of hair removal techniques, the folks at Go Bare also offer lash extensions, make-up services, teeth whitening, and even facial peels! You’ll truly walk out feeling like a million bucks ~ for a lot less! www.gobare.us

Add one part Cancun, one part Dublin, mix and what do you get? Everybody’s favorite Mexican-Irish fusion bar and restaurant, Jose Murphy’s at 97 Water Street! Featuring live music, DJs, plenty of games on the tube, and everyone’s favorite 10 cent taco night every Monday night. It’s the perfect place to get away, save some money, and hook up with friends. www.josemurphys.com

Liking the vibe on Water Street? You’ll like it even more once you stop into Fusion Lounge and Nightclub. We’ll let their tagline speak for itself: “A Promenade for dance that will captivate the hedonist and deviate the temperate. The forefront where even the self-contained take action upon enticement. Let the music, lights and moment take hold. Your Imagination is Your Only Restraint.” www.fusionworcester.com

Right down the street from Fusion is Blackstone Tap ~ basically the definition of “something for everyone:” Full bar, lottery, live music, pool table, Golden Tee, late night kitchen, an outdoor smoking and drinking patio, plasma TVs, and…no cover charge EVER. www.blackstonetap.com

DL Fitness Studios will get you out of the school workout center and into a fun and exciting workout routine that will help you build muscles you didn’t even know you had. Pole Dancing is the feature at this studio, but other classes offered include boot camp and hip hop. For those who dread breaking a sweat, this may be just the chance to get your mind off the exercise and just let loose and enjoy! www.dlfitnessstudios.com

HIGHLAND STREET

Highland St. hosts some of the best college hangouts in the area, with both WPI and Becker College just steps away. It’s a funky place to chill, especially with Elm Park right there ~ Elm Park is the first public park in the US, FYI, and every summer and fall hosts art instillations and outdoor concerts. It’s a great place to relax, walk, people-and-dog-watch, and take pix.

Tortilla Sam’s has been a late night favorite of the college crowd for years, with their affordable menu, late night hours, and BYOB status, it’s bound to stay a favorite for years to come. And those of you who like your hot sauce HOT, you’ll be in your glory!

With two tattoo parlors in the area, Miller Cotton’s Tattoos at 146 Highland St, and Mom & Pop Tattoo and Piercing at 157 Highland St., this is the place to go to fulfill those rebellious urges.

Looking for some tasty treats (and we mean tasty ~ the desserts here are amazing!), a great coffee menu, and even some vegan/gluten free eats, check out The Bean Counter. The free wireless access makes this a great place to get away from the roomies and get some work done as well! It’s a pretty good place for a cazh first date, too! www.myspace.com/the_beancounter

Boomers Sub and Deli is another great place to grab a cheap, delicious meal. This shop isn’t just for the college kids, you’ll find all sorts so people lined up to order their favorite super-sized sandwiches ~ and their legendary onion rings! www.boomerssubanddeli.com

Looking for a place to bring the ‘rents that will really impress? Look no further than The Sole Proprietor. The restaurant is one of the most popular and elegant (but without a stuffy feeling) in the area for a reason ~ top-of-the-line seafood, service, and ambiance. The bar is fantastic, too, and attracts everyone from singles to couples to power brokers. www.thesole.com

How about a little window shopping? The Futon Company (with a cool inventory for dorm room and homes alike) and Unique Boutik (with some of the best vintage clothing and accessories around!) are perfect distractions from the hustle and bustle of Highland. Just bring your wallets because you’re sure to find something you just can’t live without! www.futonco.net

GREENDALE

The Greendale area is a popular area for shopping, playing some pool, grabbing a drink, and breaking a sweat.

Jillian’s Worcester is located at 315 Grove St. This is the place to be for evening entertainment. Whether you want to play some pool, grab a drink, play some darts, or maybe let loose in their game room, you’re sure to have a great time, meet some great people, and leave wanting more. Check the schedule for popular local bands, special girls’ nights, and even the big UFC fights. www.jilliansbillards.com
With some of the best gyms around you’re sure to find just the right one to lose those freshman 15. Perhaps one of the most well-known gyms around, Gold’s Gym at 40 Millbrook St. in Worcester, will not disappoint with a great group class schedule, knowledgeable trainers, and wide array of exercise equipment. www.goldsgym.com

Worcester Fitness on Grove St. also offers a state of the art facility with an experienced and knowledgeable staff. Established in 1978, this club has something for everyone. www.worcesterfitness.com. Workout World, located at the Greendale Mall, allows you to run your errands at the same location that you log your workouts. So convenient you won’t be able to think of an excuse not to go!

Looking for something a little different? Why not try the Mixed Martial Arts Training Center over at 230 Brooks St. This 5000 sq. ft. state of the art training center offers over 1500 sq. feet of open mat space, an MMA training cage, boxing center complete with ring, and a members’ lounge where you can cool down or catch a fight. www.myspace.com/massfightclub

A little short on cash? Head over to the Goodwill on Park Ave./Gold Star Blvd to grab some cheap threads and household items ~ you’ll be supporting the Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries while you’re at it. www.goodwillmass.org

When you’re done, grab a bite at New England Roast Beef at 33 Park Ave. Their delicious menu is chock full of insanely large and creative sandwiched (with some great New England name!) and is sure to offer something for everyone. Give it a try, you’ll thank us later.

If you ever find yourself looking for culture with a twist ~ weapons and fighting techniques included! ~ check out Higgins Armory Museum at 100 Barber Ave. This is the only museum in the Northeast devoted to the study and display of arms and armory. www.higgins.org

Really into art? Check out the Worcester Art Museum. The museum is a gem in the heart of the city. Its collections include European and North American painting, prints, photographs and drawings; Asian art, Greek and Roman sculpture and mosaics and Contemporary art. The Museum Cafe, Museum Shop, and available art classes will round out your cultural experience. www.worcesterart.org

If you’re in a metal, rock, punk, or prog-rock band, friends with someone who is, a fan of those kinds of music, or simply someone who likes a great place to hang with friends, then Ralph’s Diner (yes, they serve burgers and chili, not just great music) is probably the place for you. Most local, and many out-of-state, bands consider it home ~ experience the insanely wide variety of people, the music, the drinks, and the general come-on-in-and-join-the-family vibe and you will too. 148 Grove St.,www,ralphsrockdiner.com, www.myspace.com/ralphsdiner

Sharks hockey Downtown at the DCU Center

DOWNTOWN

If you find yourself in Downtown Worcester, don’t worry, be happy, there is more to do here than we’ve seen in years.

Longtime favorite Coney Island is the place to go for dogs and atmosphere. You can’t say you’ve been to or live in Worcester if you haven’t experienced “a dog.” Get a permanent reminder of your time in Worcester over at the Port of Worcester Tattoos, located at 4 Quinsigamond Ave. www.myspace.com/powtattoo

Want a little more history? Visit Mechanics Hall at 321 Main St. for some amazing live performances ~ classical, jazz, blues, ballet, to name just a few ~ in a beautiful setting. The Hall is listed on National Register of Historic Places and is truly one of the most breathtaking venues around. www.mechanicshall.org

For a wide variety of events, the DCU Center (formerly the Centrum) has been the place to be for over 25 years. You can check out a variety of sporting events, performances from your favorite artists, as well as family shows and conventions. www.dcucenter.com

The newly opened Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts is another must-see. Re-opened in 2008, the historic theatre has been busy hosting Broadway tours, nationally recognized performers, and family shows, all in a breath-taking setting you’ll be talking about for days. www.thehanovertheatre.org

Looking for a venue that’s a little more laid back? Look no further than Tammany Hall, at 43 Pleasant St. Known for their live music and refreshing beverages, Tammany attracts all ages ~ and a great variety of bands, too, from ska to metal and everything in between. www.tammanyhalllive.com

If you’re interested in something a little less casual and a little more “gonna meet a hottie tonight,” head upstairs to Red 1888 for dancing and drinks in a fun and elegant setting. www.myspace.com/clubred1888

Irish Times/The Mansion is always hopping ~ four floors of live music, food, DJs, bars, and just plain old fun. It’s a (244) Main Street mainstay, and for good reason. www.myspace.com/irishtimesworcester

The Raven Music Hall isn’t too far away at 258 Pleasant St. It’s one of the newest places in town to check out live music and grab a cold beer. It’s a truly great rock room and has started attracting both the best in local bands and some major national acts, too. The owners have some pretty impressive music industry connections and it shows. Hanging out at The Raven feels very CBGB-ish ~ so for those of you really into the rock scene, definitely stop in on the weekends. www.myspace.com/theravenmusichall

There are some great places that have popped up near the new courthouse as well. The Armsby Abbey at 144 Main St. has been open for just over a year now, and their drink menu, beer selection, and fresh, local ingredients has given them quite a reputation for flavor and quality. Their menu changes with the season, and their brunch is one of the best around. www.armsbyabbey.com

Just a block away you’ll find the slightly odd, but always entertaining, Dr. Gozno’s and his Uncommon Condiments. This local treasure, once so hard to get your hands on, is now readily available seven days a week under one roof at 122 Main Street. www.drgonzos.com

Another new addition to the downtown area is 55 Pearl Restaurant, located in the historic Bull Mansion. With its breathtaking interior and ample outdoor seating, along with a creative and deliciously prepared and presented menu, 55 Pearl is certainly counted as one of the city’s finest dining establishments. The reasonable prices are another bonus ~ for such high quality of food in a such a beautiful setting you would expect to pay a lot more. www.55pearl.com

Club Universe on Park Ave.

PARK AVENUE

Park Avenue has long been known for its college hangouts. Cheap bars such as Leitrim’s and the Blarney Stone have been a mainstay of the college crowd for years, and we don’t see that changing in the near future. “If it ain’t broke…” www.myspace.com/leitrimpub

Miraculous Creations at 458 Park Ave. has been serving those who want something a little different for years. Stop in for piercings, tattoos, and other creative body art. www.miraculouscreations.com

That’s Entertainment is another fun and off beat destination to visit when you’ve got some time to kill. It’s everyone’s favorite stop for comic books, collectibles, games, toys, and so much more;young and old alike will have no problem spending hours browsing the racks. www.thatse.com

Another fun hangout that won’t cost you a dime is Elm Park. Walk the paths, picnic by the water, check out some live music or art displays (during the summer and early fall, the park plays host to concerts series and artists’ installations, so definitely stop by for some fresh air and a dose of outdoor culture) or just people/dog watch ~ whatever you do here you’ll enjoy the reprieve from the bustle of city life.

For some cheap and tasty treats check out Blue Jean’s Pizza. Their late night menu is perfect for the after hours crowd. Stop by after a drink at Leitrim’s or call for delivery and just wait at home. www.bluejeanspizza.com

Baba’s Sushi at 309 Park Ave. quickly made a name for itself when they came on the scene a couple years ago, and for good reason. Their sushi is delicious, the intimate setting is perfect for date night, and the location is easy to get to from all around the city. www.babasushi.com

In the mood for sushi? Plan to indulge in the finest around at Haiku at 258 Park Ave. And Chef Kenzo also prepares a full lunch and dinner menu for those of you aren’t addicted to sushi. Right next door you’ll find one of El Basha’s three locations ~ if you love Middle Eastern cuisine, you’ll want to try everything on the menu, from appetizer to entrée. El Basha is family-owned and strikes that perfect balance between a casual and elegant atmosphere. Bring your appetite, the portions are generous and the food is delicious. www.haiku.com, www.elbasharestaurant.com.

Mahoney’s, right on the border of the Clark U campus, is just what a neighborhood bar should be ~ it’s laid back, serves great bar food, always has the game on, and always makes you feel welcome. It’s the perfect place to grab a cold one (soda or beer!) after work or to usher in the weekend.

Leitrim’s pretty much defines a great college bar, too. It’s the kind of place where the staff remembers to wish longtime patrons a happy birthday, there’s always a cool contest or live performance going on, and you’re pretty much guaranteed to run into someone you know any night of the week. No need to get all dressed up, just come hang with your friends.

Club Universe is the latest addition to Park Ave’s bar and nightclub scene. Newly renovated and under new management, Club Universe offers something foreveryone, from the young(18+) to the young at heart. Featuring 4 pool tables, 2 bars, an awesome dance floor, 15 plasmas, outdoor patio seating, live DJs and great drinks, Club U is where the party’s at. www.clubuniverseworcester.com

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, check out the Living Earth right around the corner. At 232 Chandler St. This health food grocery, a city staple for years, offers specialty foods and organic and all natural products that are socially and environmentally conscious. The vegan and vegetarian selection is also one of the best around. The attached restaurant EVO has all the same principles and products, but in restaurant form. www.lefoods.com

The Salvation Army (technically right OFF Park Ave) is another terrific place to do some thrifting and support a good cause at the same time. It’s just a quick jaunt down Cambridge St. and has a large furniture department and clothing section. Prices are extremely low and there are some great finds to be found ~ make sure to stop by on Wednesdays, when almost everything is ? off! www.use.salvationarmy.org

Another Worcester gem that is technically right OFF Park Ave (at 118 Cambridge Street) is Unholy Grail Tattoo and Art Studio. Opened the same year that tattooing was legalized in MA, Unholy Grail Tattoo and Art Studio specializes in custom tattoos (in an extremely safe, welcoming, and spotless environment) that are some of the finest you’ll see anywhere ~ from the brightest colors or black wash to realistic photo tattoo work to traditional Japanese style tattoos, surrealist and abstract styles, color or black wash, and even permanent make-up, the professionals at Unholy Grail provide not only exceptional service, but also exceptional results that blend your style with their artistic expertise. So check out Unholy Grail at www.myspace.com/unholygrailtattoo and then go see Hector, Chloe Vanessa, and Madison in person.

WEST SIDE

Over on the West Side you’ll find many gems in and amongst all the residential areas. The West Side Steak & BBQ at 2 Richmond Ave. is quickly becoming a local favorite. The family run business offers great food at reasonable prices.

Get daring and try some Russian specialties at Moscow Nights at 808 Pleasant St. This food is the real thing and will add some exotic to your diet!

The area also boasts one of the most unique floral shops around. Locally owned Sprout, at 118 A June St., offers beautiful bouquets and arrangements and hard to find flowers, with the service and quality you deserve. www.sprout-flowers.com

Nancy Chang offers Asian favorites prepared with a healthy flair. The unique setting and casual dining atmosphere is perfect for all occasions. Try the lunch buffet, too. Not hungry? Grab a fun drink at the bar and catch a game! www.nancychang.com

Over at 126 Post Salon you can get all your primping done in a fun and upscale setting. The excellent service and experienced stylists will give you just the look you’re going for, or help you find a style that suits you. www.postsalonspa.com

Pho 2000 just opened in Worcester at 1394 Main St. and it is definitely is a welcome addition to the Worcester food scene. While there are plenty of great places around town to grab some delicious Vietnamese food, Pho 2000 can hold their own.

Looking for a delicious ending to the perfect meal, or maybe just a light lunch? Head on over to On the Rise Baking at 78 Brownell St. Their delicious desserts, perfect lattes, and new lunch menu will really hit the spot. This is the place to go, too, if you are looking to order a special occasion cake ~ owner Elizabeth is a true artist and can even accommodate gluten and wheat-free requests! www.ontherisebaking.com

If you’re looking for some cheap threads or an affordable way to furnish your dorm or apartment, Savers is the place for you. This thrift store at 50 Mill St. doesn’t just offer good deals to the shoppers, they also donate a portion of their sales to charities. www.savers.com

The moral of this story is that there is SO much to do in Worcester that you really have to just get out there and start getting to know the area. We’ve given you some great places to start, but they’re just that, places to START. Definitely make an effort to try them all once ~ and then keep your eyes and ears open for suggestions from folks who’ve been part of the Worcester scene for a while ~ they’ll have some cool ideas of where you can hang, too. Enjoy the process of getting to know YOUR city ~ along the way, you’ll find the hip clubs, bars, boutiques, and spas that fit your vibe and will become part of your life here ~ but never hesitate to try somewhere new, too! One of the benefits of neighborhoods like Shrewsbury Street, The Canal District, and Highland Street, too, is that they’re great for waling ~ so just find a spot for the car and then head out on foot. We guarantee it, soon you’ll love so many places around here that your biggest problem will be how to fit them all into your weekends and spare time!