The Second Glass

This Moroccan restaurant completely rocks. Be prepared to drop some cash here, but it’s worth it for the tasty tagines and the smoky hookah lounge that really feels a lot like an opium den, not that we’ve ever been in one. Low lighting, thick curtains, pillows everywhere, Arabian art, and contemporary middle-eastern music together create an authentic atmosphere. Occasional belly dancers come out of the woodwork and are just as hot and exotic-looking as the waitresses.Deliciousness on Tangierino’s menu is separated into “traditional” and “contemporary” categories, and we highly recommend trying both. Start with the disintegrating tuna tartar- layers of succulent yellowfi n tuna, crab meat and rice, honeyed mango, avocado, and goat cheese mousse… wowza! Entrees are harder to choose, though the traditional Sultan’s Kadra is hard to turn down with its za’atar-spiced tender fi let of lamb, cheese-fi lled eggplant, shiitake mushrooms, poached fi gs, caramelized apricots, and rosemary reduction.

Even if you’re not eating, this place deserves a lengthy visit to its sweet-smelling Casbah Lounge. One of the only establishments in Boston with an indoor smoking license, this is a space that will appeal to your debaucherous inner child. They’ve also got great sangria and a solid wine list.

83 Main St. Charlestown | 617-242-6009 | www.tangierino.com