Neighbours’ Cafe

Our order here is almost always the same. We go for either the deep-fried pork chop or the faintly garlic-scented deep-fried chicken, which is presented in easy-to-manage strips on a small metal rack that keeps them shatteringly crisp. This is served bento-box style (although without the actual bento box) alongside rice, a set of side dishes — including an enduringly pleasing tomato and egg situation — and soup. Like two other eateries on this list, this place is right in the heart of a bustling strip mall in Somerville. The food largely matches the setting: no-frills but very comforting. More than enough to lure us back to the east side of the city again and again and again.