Boston is a culturally rich city, combining old and new influences for a thriving small business scene.
Walk the cobblestone streets of the North End, and you'll discover the most authentic cannolis outside of Italy. Slurp back a freshly shucked oyster at the oldest restaurant in America, just a few blocks from Faneuil Hall.
Or if you're looking to escape the frigid temperatures, stay inside and check out Beantown's up-and-coming online startups.
It's just a wicked cool place to be.
Allston Pudding
Online, based in Boston
What it is: A music blog that champions local artists
Why it's cool: Run by fans and musicians, Allston Pudding highlights local music. It supports artists who may not receive their proper radio play or publicity, but who definitely deserve your attention.
These trendy curators of all things awesome got creative in their fundraising efforts after the Boston Marathon tragedy by releasing a 130-track mixtape, which can be downloaded with a donation to The One Fund.
The Bacon Truck
Follow them on Twitter for Boston locations
What it is: A food truck that sells all things bacon
Why it's cool: Started by a couple of guys who've been friends since high school, the adorable, cartoon-illustrated Bacon Truck maintains its rights to "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Bacon."
The Bacon Truck's bacon is prepared and smoked right there in Boston, and the menu features a variety of delicious, bacon-laden sandwiches and bacon-starring desserts, including the simple-yet-decadent Nutella-covered bacon.
Ball & Buck
144B Newbury Street
What it is: A men's hunting-themed clothing store that takes the pain out of shopping
Why it's cool: It's a well-known fact that many men hate shopping, so Ball & Buck treat their customers to a stress-relieving shopping experience with no-frills, hunting-inspired products, and exceptional customer service. Customers can kill two birds with one stone by getting their hair cut at the barbershop at the back of the store.
Ball & Buck also hosts occasional partnership events with other local businesses, so try to plan your visit on a day where they might have meat, oysters, and beer available to customers.
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