Bites Nearby: Josephs Two Restaurant

Josephs Two calls itself a place for "New England & Mediterranean countryside dining," which isn't a bad description, given that it offers a variety of fare, from clam chowder, turkey sausage, and ham and eggs, to chicken parmesan, ravioli, and pasta fagiole. Located in the hub of Waltham, at 805 Main St. it's been serving the community for almost 40 years. The name refers to the father and son who started the restaurant.

What to eat: At least half the menu is taken up by all-day breakfast dishes, with lots of choices, from eggs and homefries, omelettes, Belgian waffles and pancakes to corned beef hash and "hardy New England breakfasts," such as The Montpelier, which consists of thick-cut French toast, two eggs, ham and Vermont cheddar cheese. Lunch and dinner dishes include chicken pot pie, fish and chips, prime rib and chicken, ziti and broccoli. The soups (chicken, clam chowder, split pea, etc.) and desserts (apple pie, carrot cake, chocolate layer cake, etc.) are homemade.

The Vibe: Ultra-casual, pleasant and family oriented.

Cool factor no. 1: You're likely to find couples, retired people, Bentley and Brandeis students and regular singles eating here.

Cool factor no. 2: Customers often leave their newspapers near the front door.