The outdoor stacks are great instagram bait and have become somewhat of a pop-up landmark; but the less-traveled third-floor, for rare and antique books, is where they’re really making money, and where you’ll find that perfect gift to yourself or a loved one.

What more do you need to know? It’s Boston’s premier Aesop. Generous with the samples and usually brewing a refreshing tea.

A three-story boutique with an in-house atelier up top that produces a namesake label rivaling anything else on their racks. Rick, Issey, Junya, Wales Bonner, etc.—always something with a little flair. Post-2020 this was the last place in Boston you could still find Raf. A+ customer service every time.

Two words: lobster & waffle