Dockside at Malden ***

We went just looking for dinner, and I had remembered eating at there years ago. The place was packed and various games were on the countless televisions over the bar and on smaller televisions at some of the booths. This very small and local chain fit the bill.

Hayward's Restaurant ***

The other night we were in the mood for some local grub and Hayward's fit the bill. With the diner feel, you expect and get good old family cooking! My girlfriend ordered and loved her baked haddock dinner ($12.95) with a side of vegetables and tomato soup which was the soup of the day. It was hot and juicy enough to make your mouth water.

Chow Thai Cafe *****

We decided to go into Boston for a bite, but went through Charlestown instead. After driving by my old office, I remembered a Thai restaurant I used to frequent, Thai Chow Cafe. It was night and found parking - which sometimes is not easy to find. The Cafe has a small and comfortable atmosphere such as you'd find at a Starbucks, or better yet, your living room.

The Willowtree Restaurant *

Ironically, I wrote this review before they began their renovation. I hope it's to improve the decor and possibly a better chef...

Although I'm frequently in Peabody, had grown up there, and despite driving by The Willowtree all the time, I never went in. Well, that's now changed! The decor was something out of 70's magazine dealing with woodworking.