Merrimack Street ice creamery Monkeys opened yest. and the place feels better than ever. New cupcakes look highly edible and a slew of marshmallows dipped in choc. and coconut huddle under a tiki hut. Next time the sugar rush calls, this would be a good speed dial. Sure hope that ice cream softserv machine is up and running. Seems reports of Cafe Aiello’s devolution were overplayed. Enjoyed an iced coffee (first of the season) at the Gorham St. cafe and the overall aura was positive. The barista behind the counter even came over and asked if I wanted a drink and served me. That would never happen at DD or the Bucks, never. The place looked pretty orderly. Not too many peeps tho.

Wine dins. at Cobblestones last night was tres impressive. The best vino poured came from Minnesota-turned Nappa vintners Murphy Goode. A big fat zin called liar's dice was a decent roll. The opening taste, sunny side eggs over spring asparagus w/ morell cream sauce set the evening on fire. Want to stay up on the latest food trends? Go to a wine dinner. Eggs are not just for breakfast anymore and we like it.

Mid-chowdown the tenders tossed in a cape codder made w/pomegranate vodka, the perfect break from the grape juice guzzle. You don't oft find cocktails thrown in at a wine din, but I say why not? The loose feel of the evening was vintage Cobbies. Lots of jokes and good natured imbibing. Don’t overlook this DTL mainstay it’s a fine hang.