Guess I haven't been paying close enough attention to developments up north. Months ago Manhattan on Pearl, one of the best reasons to venture to Nashua, closed on Pearl Street and no one told me! But the news isn’t all bad. Seems martinis and small plates live on at this nicely turned out space now Stella Blu. Run by a bunch of deadheads-turned-engineers-turned-restauarteurs, the hip little urban spot has upped the ante by hiring Bill Bailey in the kitch. The chef learned at Ming Tsai’s elbow at Blue Ginger in Wellesley and no doubt Asian tapas are his forte. If pulled pork sliders, lobster mac n' cheese spring rolls and duck rangoons w/grilled pineapple salsa tells you anything, he’s loosened the fusion reigns. The menu is broken into four categories, Little Italy, Latin Quarter, Asian and American w/ prices btw $4 and $10. At the bar you'll find wine — 40 by the glass — is emphasized, but owner Greg Steven said his mixologist Jarred knows how to concoct. If you go try the Stella Blu, a berry vodka, blueberry muddled, prosecco-topped refresher. Alfreso dining is on the way.

Got plans tonight? The Taste of Chelmsford, featuring 18 local restaurants like Gibbet Hill and Feng Shui, is at the Radisson. $25, 7 to 10 p.m.