Dusk Lounge brings upscale Mediterranean to Mass Ave

• First things first: there are no meat-free "mains."
• Yes, but: It doesn't matter because most of the small plates and sides are veg-friendly and so, so good.

What to order: The artisan flatbread ($19) with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, feta and ricotta and topped with peppery arugula was probably my favorite bite.

• It had great depth of flavor and texture and totally works as a main.
• The cauliflower steak ($24) was nicely grilled and served over a delicious dijon sauce. Pair it with the indulgent whipped feta ($13) or the hummus trio ($18) for a hearty meal. Both come with hot, pillowy pita.
• While the classic was good, the pesto hummus was a surprise favorite.
• Pro tip: Skip the falafel. While I usually love it, this one was too soft in the middle and a bit of a miss among all the other hits.

The vibe: This luxe spot is unrecognizable from its former life as an awkwardly laid out sports bar.

• A gorgeous stone bar is flanked by built-in fire towers. A wood ceiling installation adds warmth and intimacy to the space that's been reimagined as a high-end date night and special occasion restaurant.
• It also transforms into a lounge after dark and has an appropriately solid cocktail menu.

If you go: 409 Mass Ave.

• Open 4-11pm Monday-Thursday, 4pm-midnight Friday and Saturday and 4-9pm Sunday.
• The basement-level bar is open 6pm-midnight Sunday-Wednesday and 6pm-2am Thursday-Saturday.