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In This Issue:
Mission Hill: A Blend of Culture, Cuisine and Compelling Stories
Mission Hill prides itself on its history of rich culture and traditions, diverse businesses and tightknit sense of community. Learn more about some of the area’s many offerings in this insert, and stay tuned to BWHPikeNotes.org for a complete list of Mission Hill area businesses.
Jonathan Chamber used to walk through the nearby streets of Mission Hill on his way to BWH, where he was a Security officer. On those walks, he began to dream about opening a restaurant in the neighborhood that would serve the food he grew up loving.
After six years at BWH, Chamber did just that. In 2004, he opened Flames, a restaurant specializing in Caribbean food, as well as Southern comfort food with a Caribbean twist.
"I thought, ‘What better place to open a restaurant than Mission Hill?'" said Chamber, who was born in Jamaica. "We have everything here-the people, the passion for food, a strong sense of community and good neighbors."
Flames is among many eateries, shops and services you'll find just steps away from BWH's main campus. The vibrant neighborhood of Mission Hill and its local businesses have a history of blending good food, culture and customer service.
"What I love about Mission Hill is that it still has that neighborhood feel," said Richard Rouse, executive director of Mission Hill Main Streets, a local organization that promotes the revitalization of the Mission Hill commercial district. "It has that feel because of the rich cultures represented. Mission Hill has a history of diversity dating back many years, and we're very fortunate to be able to continue that tradition."
In every direction you look, from Tremont Street, near Roxbury Crossing, to One Brigham Circle and the area of Huntington Avenue adjacent to BWH, you get a sense of the diversity of the people who live, work and own businesses in the area.
When it comes to food, there are many quick and convenient options that will keep foodies happy, from Asian and Indian food to Mexican, Central American and Italian. If you're willing to walk a few blocks, you'll find authentic Puerto Rican food past the Mission Church, as well as an array of sub and pizza shops that college students and BWHers alike call the best in town. You'll also find several local coffee shops and pubs that are popular post-work gathering spots.
"It doesn't matter what mood you're in; there is a place for you to go," said Matt Postal, owner of Lilly's Pasta Express on Tremont Street. The shop, which opened about two years ago, specializes in handmade pasta and Italian dishes.
Lest you think Mission Hill is only a place for foodies, it's important to note that the area also offers dry cleaning services, nail salons, health fitness centers, auto repair shops and other businesses. Behind every shop is a business owner who is passionate about the area, said Braden Armstrong, co-owner of the Green T Coffee Shop, which opened early this year.
"What makes Mission Hill a strong business area is that all of us believe in the neighborhood," said Braden.