Location: Dorchester Brewing Co., 1250 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, 617-514-0900, dorchesterbrewing.com; M&M BBQ, 617-307-7674, mandmbbq.com
2. Fresh Fruit Ice Cream at Benson’s Homemade Ice Cream
When it comes to roadside ice cream stands, Benson’s is as classic as they come: a cheery blue-and-white cottage, wedged deep in a rural town, with teen servers and flavors that include both classic New England varieties (my grandfather’s favorite was frozen pudding) to downright modern (vegan mint chip). After a beach trip to Hampton or Rye, New Hampshire, we’d turn off Route 495 for the sweetest detour possible. Benson’s calling card is the flavors made from freshly picked, seasonal fruit from local farms: think black and red raspberry, Maine blueberry, peach. You won’t find those at your beachfront soft-serve joint. –Kara Baskin
Location: 181 Washington Street, Boxford, 978-352-2911, bensonsicecream.com
3. Popovers at Jordan Pond House
Crusty on the outside, warm on the inside, with a hint of salt — we could be describing a Downeast lobsterman. But no, we’re talking popovers; specifically, the puffy delights served at Acadia National Park’s Jordan Pond House. Popovers have won the hearts of hungry hikers at this rustic restaurant since 1893, when proprietor Nellie McIntire began baking them for tea time. (The original building burned down in 1979 and was rebuilt in 1982.) The hollow, egg batter-based rolls, similar to Britain’s Yorkshire pudding, are now a treasured Acadia treat. A triumph of crispy-meets-airy deliciousness, it’s best enjoyed with a generous pat of butter and a dollop of Maine-made strawberry jam. Enjoy one with tea at an outdoor table overlooking Jordan Pond, with views of the Bubble Mountains. –Diane Bair and Pamela Wright
Location: Opens May 17. 2928 Park Loop Road, Seal Harbor, Maine; 207-813-4342, jordanpondhouse.com
4. Frozen Lemonade at Del’s
Del’s frozen lemonade, simply put, is a Rhode Island staple. Heck, in the Ocean State, we proudly display Del’s tree ornaments, bibs, and pet bandanas. While