but if most of you can't make dinner on the 23rd as an alternative

Oh, I completely missed the post about the 23rd. That works fine for me. Better than Thursday actually.

Kristin -- will you be free next Tuesday to hang out? That day's probably the best for me in your time frame. I don't work that day and I don't have any plans. Want to come hang out in lovely Northampton?

I can do dinner on Monday night the 23rd. I can organize it as well- what kind of place are we thinking of (cuisine-wise)? Also, what area is preferable? Boston, Cambridge, specific neighborhoods in either? Somerville? I'd prefer not to get too much further out than that (i.e., Brookline or whatever) because it takes me far away from the train station. The closer I am to the train, the more time I have to hang out!

Folks can post here or email me to let me know if they're in. I'll make a reservation and whatnot.

The big thing is, make sure wherever we think of going (if it's the 23rd) is open. Some places are closed on Mondays, and not necessarily just high-end ones.

I know on the Somerville front, Redbones (BBQ) or Dali (Tapas) will always get my vote.

But pretty much open to anything.

The big thing is, make sure wherever we think of going (if it's the 23rd) is open.

Yeah, I'll do my research, not to worry! (see, I had no idea that the brunch place would be closed because of the burst pipe, so not my fault!)

North End might be nice. Monday nights can be quiet at the places that are open, and there's a range of prices/styles of Italian food. Also if some folks aren't up for the whole dinner and caboodle, we can meet up for cannolis at Mikes or Modern Pasty afterward.

North End might be nice.

Ooh, hadn't thought of that. Plus, close to North Station.

I had a great meal at Taranta (which is Italian with Peruvian accents) a couple of weeks back, but it was a bit pricey. I also love Carmen, but that one's pricey AND tiny.

Taranta is really good, but I agree, pricey. However, the one time I went there on a Monday night it was really quiet, so we shouldn't have trouble getting a table!

La Summa seems well reviewed and cheap.

Is also open on Mondays.

There is also an asian cuisine/sushi place in the North End, Billy Tse's. Also looks reasonable and well regarded (at first glance).

ETA the restaurant's website: [link] and to note it also appears to be open on Mondays.

This web site has a lot of info: [link]

Warning, it does have sound, as I found out at work. I'd also recommend Antico Forno, and I'm intrigued by the menu at Terramia.

ETA this is also a really good web site for more general greater Boston info: [link]

By no means complete, but they've got some good places there.