Bites Nearby: The New Landing

Located in the lower section of Waltham's Moody Street, offers hearty, American-style sandwiches, burgers, entrees and appetizers. It's not Weight Watchers fare, but the food is fresh and not just bar food.

Chef Mike Centola revamped the restaurant's menu in February with new dishes such as pita bread pizzas ("pizzettes"). There's also a "build a burger," offering in which customers choose from hamburger, turkey, veggie or grilled chicken. A list of different cheeses, sauteed onions and roasted peppers are also available as additions. ($7.99).

A suggested dish: We tried one of their popular grilled chicken sandwiches, which is really another variation on the burger idea. This one came with melted mozarella cheese, pesto, red onion, tomato and romaine lettuce on a lightly toasted bun. All the sandwiches and wraps also come with a side of French fries, onion rings, sweet-potato fries or a salad ($8.99).

The sandwich was quite substantial and tasted fresh, with a large medallion of grilled chicken and just the right amount of pesto. The romaine lettuce was crunchy and the red onion not too hot. Simple yet satisfying. We chose the side of sweet potato fries, which were creamy and tasted like real potatoes.

The vibe: A pub-like atmosphere, with pulsing music and plenty of young couples and singles.

Cool factor No. 1: The dining room is open until 10:30 p.m. five days a week and until 11 p.m. on weekends.

Cool factor No. 2: Don't forget to ask for a wedge of fresh lemon or lime for your iced-tea – or as a garnish for a dish. 

Know of a dish we should try in Watertown or Waltham? Let us know in the comments section below or email charlie.breitrose@patch.com.