A Cook's Guide to Metro-West Boston

Russo's market has an unmatched collection of fresh produce representing many parts of the world. They have an interesting collection of Asian vegetables as well as all of your standard fare; who can beat $.50 avocados?

The store is usually packed on weekends so if you don't think you can navigate through the carnivorous hordes, check it out on a weekday.

Dewar and Co supplies many of Boston's most upscale restaurants with their meats so you know you're dealing with the best. The prices are steep, but it is always worth it.

No better place to shop for the best wines and beers on the planet. Marty's has the most knowledgeable staff on the planet and they host a number of great wine tasting events throughout the city. The location in Allston is also great.

The best cheese store on the planet. You can tell the staff what your general palette is or if you're looking for something to add to a particular dish and they know just what to get you. Excellent selection of fine meats too.

At many points in my life, I would have thought a store dedicated entirely to spices would be too good to be true. Penzeys has every spice imaginable from all corners of the globe. Where else can you find smoked paprika?

The prices are steep, but spices are an investment in your culinary future. Most of them come in different sized containers.

The online store is great as well (spices make great gifts).

When I can't make it over to Russo's, Wilson Farm is my backup for fresh produce. They always have the sweetest corn and a plethora of fresh veggies (love the free samples too).