Bites Nearby: Arax Market

Arax is located in the middle of the three ethnic grocers on Mount Auburn Street in Watertown, between and . It has the best produce section, as well as the most extensive selection of bulk grains, honeys and teas. Otherwise, it's more a matter of personal preference or taste, since all three stores carry a good variety of prepared Middle Eastern foods, cheeses, olives, flat breads, and juice drinks.

What to eat: Like all three Middle Eastern grocers in this two-block stretch of Mount Auburn Street, Arax has an extensive olive bar and a well-stocked cheese deli with several kinds of feta and other soft cheeses. Its coolers are filled with yogurts and prepared Middle Eastern foods, such as humus, baba ganoush and other cold dishes, which can make a satisfying lunch with fresh pita or sesame ring bread. For dessert, there are more than a dozen kinds of Armenian pastries and fresh fruit.

The vibe: Friendly and cosy, with local Armenians, Italians and others shopping every day.

Cool factor no. 1: You can drop in to pick up some bread, olives and cheese -- or spend time just browsing among the many kinds of honey, oils, teas spices and bulk foods.

Cool factor no. 2: It's fine to ask for a sample of a cheese or to taste an olive or two.