Tupelo (CLOSED)

While a few southern-style options have popped up all over the Boston area, Tupelo nails the home-cooked feel more than any restaurant maybe ever. The cozy dining space, tucked away in unassuming Inman Square, offers a modest bar, dark woods and low lighting—the perfect atmosphere for the Thursday night "Date Night" menu made to share ($25 for two). The tattooed staff serves specialty cocktails in mason jars and locally brewed beers, and locals swear by hangover-curing properties of the biscuits and gravy ($9).