Copley Square Archives - Anali's Next Amendment

Lunch at VERTS Mediterranean Grill in Copley Square

July 30, 2020August 28, 2017 by Lisa Johnson 2 Comments

This was my lunch today! I had a chicken quinoa bowl from VERTS Mediterranean Grill. It was quite good and I have some leftovers for lunch tomorrow too.

I took my food to go and brought it back to my office, but took the picture while I was still in the restaurant. While I didn’t eat inside, the space is open and airy, plus there is outdoor seating as well.

VERTS is similar to other places like b.good, where you get a bowl and decide what you want in it. They have a menu that you can choose from or you can build your own bowl.

I love this concept, because it’s a really healthy way to eat. You get a lot of vegetables, protein and a healthy carb.

The only off thing was the utensils. They only have forks — no knives or spoons. A bit odd, but maybe it’s an oversight that they’re working on correcting.

VERTS has greatly expanded in Boston over the past year and they now have three locations — this one on Boylston Street, one on Summer Street and one on Washington Street too. If there is one close to you, definitely check them out!

As I wrote about VERTS before, they are based out of Texas, with several locations in Austin, Dallas and a Houston location as well.

With all the devastating news we’re hearing about Hurricane Harvey, my heart goes out to everyone impacted. The stories are unimaginable. I hope that everyone in all their Texas locations are safe and weathering the storm.

*Updated 7/30/2020* It appears that VERTS may have closed and is possibly under new management.

+ + +
Disclosure: Food was compliments of VERTS. Thank you!

Hey Boston! Time To Shop Farmers Markets!

July 30, 2020May 27, 2017 by Lisa Johnson

Hope you’re enjoying the start to the Memorial Day weekend! Since this is the unofficial start to summer, it’s time to start thinking about summery things.

For those of us in New England, we don’t have year-round outdoor markets like those of you in different parts of the country. For us, it’s a real treat when we can start shopping outdoors for fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and other locally grown and made items.

Some area farmers markets have already opened. Copley Square’s Farmers Market, which is closest to where I’m working now, opened on May 12th and will be open until November 21st.

Take a look at the Federation of Massachusetts Farmers Markets website to find a farmers market near you and for the opening date. It doesn’t seem to be fully updated yet, but keep checking back.

Now That It’s Spring

July 30, 2020May 9, 2016 by Lisa Johnson

Warmer weather is here and after a full week of clouds, cold and rain, I am ready to enjoy the sunny warm outdoors. Yay spring!

Did you know that this past Saturday, May 7th was World Labyrinth Day? People all over the globe “Walked as One at 1” in order to generate a wave of peaceful energy.

I didn’t get to do any labyrinth walking, but it got me thinking that spring is the perfect time to renew my Life List efforts, see #82, and walk some new labyrinths.

In case you’re interested as well, The Labyrinth Society‘s labyrinth locator helps you find a labyrinth in your area. It’s fun, relaxing and a walking meditation.

Also, I am so excited that with the arrival of spring, the open markets are all finally coming back! SoWa Open Market opened May 1st.

Take a look on the Massachusetts Farmers Market website for a listing of markets and when they are open for the season.

Copley Square Farmers Market opens tomorrow and Dewey Square Farmers Market opens next week on Thursday, May 19th. Dewey Square is easiest for me to get to, since it’s right outside South Station. I cannot wait for such easy access to just picked fruits and vegetables again!

Pain D’Avignon Holiday Pop-Up at Fairmont Copley Plaza

July 30, 2020November 21, 2014 by Lisa Johnson

A few years ago, I remember hearing that one of the most amazing French bakeries was located on Cape Cod. I’ve never visited, but have always kept the name of the bakery in mind.

Then just recently I learned that this same bakery, Pain D’Avignon is having a weekly holiday pop-up at Fairmont Copley Plaza in the lobby tea court.

On Fridays, November 21, December 5, 12, & 19, 2 – 6pm and Tuesday, December 2, 5 – 7pm, they will have an array of fresh, baked goods available for purchase. I cannot wait to stop by and and finally taste how good this bread is!

If you’ve been hoping to try Pain D’Avignon’s bread too, but never made it to their Cape Cod location, now is the time to try it. The first pop-up is today!

+ + +
Photo Credit: Pain D’Avignon

Farmers Market: Copley Square in Boston

July 30, 2020October 18, 2014 by Lisa Johnson

Recently, I was in Copley Square. I thought I’d share some pictures. Above, I was facing Boylston Street looking at the fountain.

Here, I was standing on the steps of the Boston Public Library looking down Newbury Street.

I was returning a library book and happened to be there at the right time to stroll around the Copley Square Farmers Market.

Don’t these raspberries look good? I’ve never tried the yellow or orange. So many choices!

I was tempted by the rainbow carrots, but already had carrots at home, so I decided not to get them. When I saw the golden beets, I couldn’t resist. As a child, I hated beets. But over the past few years, I’ve started to warm up to them.

Last night, I roasted the golden beets. I drizzled olive oil on them. Then sprinkled some sea salt and black pepper.

I used the beet greens and walnuts to make a pesto. Then I spread the pesto on puff pastry, added some sliced red onions and the roasted beets on top. A new vegetable tart! It was really good and G loved it!

He’s been sick the past few days, so I’ve been a bit worried. His temperature is finally getting close to normal and he seems to be on the mend. I have no proof, but maybe it was the golden beets.