Yasir used to have a reputation. This was when Sound Bites was tiny and on the weekends people would queue twenty deep to have his excellent omelettes and exquisite "Better Than Home" home fries. Because it was so busy, Yasir would yell at you if he thought you were being slow in eating or paying.
"There are people waiting for your table! Don't be rude! They are hungry!"
It was always a little stressful eating there, but the home fries were so good.
Then, one day, I was working at this company in the suburbs that had failed and we were all laid off. Filled with despair, I drove back to the city and got lunch at Sound Bites while I figured out what to do next. Because it wasn't the weekend, there were no crowds, and Yasir came over after I ordered and asked, "What is wrong? You look so sad."
"I was just laid off. Everybody was. I don't know what I will do now."
And he just put his hand on my shoulder and said, "Here, my friend, today don't worry about your bill. I will help you. You will be ok."
And I appreciated that. I ate and as I left, Yasir said, "This one time only. Next time, you pay for lunch. Because next time you will have a job. I know this."
Sound Bites is bigger now. The food is just as good. Yasir doesn't yell anymore. His heart is just as big.
Find your way with 128 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Genki Ya Boston is the best vegetarian/vegan sushi restaurant because they have options! No more sad cucumber rolls. Here you can even get brown rice...
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Boston Burger Company is a restaurant known for more than just its insane burgers — how about The King Behemoth freak frappe milkshake with... bacon?
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Don’t miss Schlesinger Library on Harvard’s campus, a hidden gem in Boston, for an enriching experience of women’s works. Look for original manuscripts!
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Union Park, located near downtown, was designed in the mid-19th century, inspired by English-style residential squares. Come for a tranquil retreat!
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Sip of Joy, a cozy family-run café in South End, blends Turkish and American flavors, offering flawless coffee, pastries, and a peaceful retreat.
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Arlington Street Church in Boston houses the world's largest themed collection of Tiffany stained glass windows — an unmistakeble artistic marvel.
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The Harvard Museum of Natural History's Glass Flowers exhibit showcases 4,300 stunning glass plant models, crafted by the Blaschkas between 1887 and 1936.
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Step into Boston’s Puppet Free Library on Newbury Street, where over 200 vibrant puppets await, spreading joy through lending since 1976.
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Rouvalis Flowers in Beacon Hill charms every season with stunning blooms, dried arrangements, and gifts — perfect for adding beauty to any Boston day.
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Cacao in Boston, run by a Dominican couple, offers rich hot chocolate, spicy cocoa, and delightful truffles — sweet haven for reading or writing.
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Escape the rush at Zuzu’s Petals in Cambridge’s Inman Square — a cozy, screen-free haven for fondue, wine, conversation, and homemade delights.
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Gypsy Place in Cambridge offers a bohemian vibe, fresh juices, vegan treats, and great coffee. Try the Azurite Bowl or Tiger’s Eye Truffles for a delicious energy boost!
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128 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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