While the menu runs the gamut from fish chowder to chicken pot pie, prime rib is the specialty at Durgin Park (established in 1826), a loud, fun, kitschy, red-and-white-checked-tablecloth spot in Faneuil Hall that's packed with good cheer nightly. Like the crowds, the food is unpretentious. The theme here is simple, honest home cookin’. Durgin Park is on two levels. Go upstairs if you feel like sitting elbow-to-elbow at communal-style tables and sharing a wilder time, and downstairs if you need privacy and a table of your own.

Durgin Park Information:

• American menu. Lunch, dinner. Closed Dec 25. Bar. Children's menu. Casual attire. Outdoor seating.