Contributors: Scott Kathan, Jeffrey Osborne, Louisa Kasdon Sidell, Naomi Kooker, Jonathan Perry, Darcy Scanlon, Bree Rolfe, Kate Ledogar, Jennifer O’Brien, Donna Dudley, Lara Jardullo, Melissa Eltringham, Sara Mills-Broffman, and countless others with strong opinions of what’s hot and not in our great city.

Other magazines report on hot trends that are already spent and waning; readers of Stuff@night know that we’re all about the waxing (pun carefully planned and fully intended). We’re not about what was cool yesterday — we’re about what will be H-O-T tomorrow. We’ve unleashed our style-ravenous editors and writers with instructions to stare intently into their crystal balls and bring you the following list of 100 people, places, things, and trends that will have the town talking. Because yesterday is so, well, yesterday. This is what’s hot right now, this very instant.

Hot couple/Hotel: Jamie Bruneau & Kerri Esposito. She sells advertising for national magazines, he’s an ex-actor turned Gibson, South End realtor, and together they are one of Boston’s hottest couples, turning up at the city’s hottest parties and always looking their best. Here they hang in the Cloud Nine Suite at the new hot place to stay, Nine Zero Hotel. Finally, Boston is catching up with NYC and recognizing the need to go boutique. We love the sophisticated furnishings and the minimalist, black marble bathrooms. Check out Spire, the hotel’s hot restaurant, while you’re there. 90 Tremont Street, Boston.

Hot sip: Blue margaritas at the East Coast Grill. Chris Schlesinger’s newest book features 10 recipes for margaritas. They range from breathlessly piquant to numbing, and all are served at the East Coast Grill. The blue one leaves you with a memento of the experience — navy lips and mauve tongue that last longer than the ones you got from a blueberry Popsicle.

Hot fabric: Corduroy. This fall, it’s all about corduroy in rich colors like chocolate brown and cobalt blue. Ultra-hip scenesters are wearing vintage Lee and Levi’s cords, while fashionistas are tucking their tushes into Seven’s low-cut, slightly flared cord jeans. Keep your eyes out for corduroy-adorned accessories as well, such as handbags and wallets. Cool and sturdy!

Hot ’hood: Loft District, Washington Street, South End. Whether it’s Wilkes Passage, Laconia Lofts, the Savoy, Rollins Square, or a slew of new buildings that seem to break ground every other month, this is the place to be if you want wide-open spaces, lots of light, cityscapes, and neighbors who throw out their garbage in used Neiman Marcus shopping bags. Photo by Geoffrey Kula

Hot gym: Crunch. Ask any fitness buffs in New York, San Francisco, LA, Chicago, South Beach, or Atlanta to name the coolest place to work out, and they’ll answer, " Crunch Fitness. " Now Boston is keyed into the cool, with the opening of a Crunch in Downtown Crossing at 17 Winter Street. The company was founded on the principle of acceptance — people of all shapes, sizes, sexes, and abilities are welcome. The company is also known for its innovative fitness classes; look for the following available in early September: Cardio Striptease, Cycle Karaoke, and Disco Yoga.

Hot salon: James Joseph. The hottest salon to open locally in some time is the newly relocated James Joseph Salon at 30 Newbury. Owner William George hired the ultra-hip South End architectural firm Office dA to design the loft-style space (you may be familiar with the firm’s last project, Mantra). We especially like the hydraulic shampoo chairs with built-in shiatsu massage, and the roof deck to catch some rays while you wait. Haircuts range from $40 to $75; color runs $50 and up. Call ahead at (617) 262-7772.

Hot scene: Via Matta. It’s time to re-rent La Dolce Vita and shell out for new very-black sunglasses. Heck, even Vespas are back in style — this is the new/old cool, Italian-style. If you can score a table on the sidewalk (or close to it), you won’t even feel self-conscious saying " Ciao, baby " to your date. The food is appropriately retro as well, but make sure to order multiple courses if you’re really hungry.

Hot manager: Mehmet at 33 Restaurant. There’s just something about that South American, European, South African — oh, we don’t even know exactly where he’s from . . . does it matter? All we know is you can find him at 33. And he looks even better in person. Show up at 33 thirsty, and you’ll see why he’s the restaurant’s tall drink of water.

Hot throwback: New bohemian. The look continues from last season into fall. Less peasant, more plush velvets and supple suedes. Bring out the Janis Joplin records (again).

Hot designer: Michael Kors for men. After years of seeing the timeless, all-American Kors look coming down the runway on women, men now get a chance to sample his beautifully made clothing as well. Check it out at Saks Fifth Avenue right now. Prudential Center.

Hot hairdo: Thermal hair-straightening with Paul Lemieux at Grettacole. With more than 12 years of salon work under his belt, Paul Lemieux has worked and taught all over the world, including such places as NYC’s Redken Exchange, LA’s Wella, the Sassoon Advanced Academy, and London’s Toni & Guy Academy. He recently returned from LA, where he trained with the inventors of thermal reconditioning, a state-of-the-art hair-straightening process from Japan. Grettacole owner Gretchen Monahan, pictured here (post-straightening), says, " It not only straightens curly or wavy hair, but also revitalizes damaged hair. It eliminates the need for excessive blow-drying and ironing, which over time can really fry your hair. " The results of the four-to-six-hour conditioning process last up to six months. It’s offered at the three Grettacole locations: Westin Copley Place, (617) 266-6166; Atrium Mall/Chestnut Hill, (617) 964-6998; and 95 Central Street, Wellesley, (781) 237-5201. Warning: it’s not cheap, but think of how much you pay for blow-outs!

Hot art: Mississippi’s mural. Hot damn! This gorgeous mural adorns the exterior of Mississippi’s, a catering and lunch joint in Roxbury (103 Terrace Street) that has been around, in various locations, for many years. The mural, a celebration of musicians of African descent (featuring John Coltrane, Celia Cruz, Sonny Rollins, Kenny Burrell, and Grant Green, among others), was created by Gala Graffix, a local visual-arts company specializing in art for public spaces.

Hot break-out star: Josh Ritter. That the Irish adore Josh Ritter — he’s a bona fide star there, complete with his own tribute band — should come as no surprise, as the Irish have always been more literate and appreciative of good turns of phrase than we Americans. Ritter is a 25-year-old musician with an old soul and a Somerville address, and he’s about to hit the big time. Music critics gush at his metaphoric lyricism and musical touch; women go crazy for the unkempt tangle of brown madness that adorns his head. Catch him now so you can say you saw him when . . .

Hot artist: Julie Graham. A teacher at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Graham has created panoramic paintings worth checking out at her show, running from September 4 to 30 at Chase Gallery, 129 Newbury Street.

Hot PC product: Kiehl’s Eucalyptus Body Cleanser. All profits from the sale of this fabulous Kiehl’s cleanser go to the Youth Aids foundation. And you get to stock up on samples when you buy. 112 Newbury Street, Boston.

Hot underground club: Ecko Lounge in Chinatown. Friday nights at Ecko Lounge attract an eclectic group of peeps who seek a heapin’ helping of the freshest sounds around. Two floors, two bars, and a lounge-y atmosphere housing spacious dance floors. Resident DJs G Notorious, Elyte, and Inanna spin two-step garage and hot UK dance grooves, while DJs Reazon and London Boy spin drum ’n’ bass. That’s at 43 Essex Street in Chinatown.

Hot love den: The Enormous Room. Okay, so maybe this place isn’t exactly what chef-owner Gary Strack had in mind (we remember hearing about a room that would feature obscure live entertainment, performance art, and live music, but have yet to see anything but a DJ spinning), but, to his credit, Strack has always said that he wanted to let the room evolve on its own — and it has. What has evolved is a dark, beautiful space with a lounge-y feel, and yet the whole enterprise is devoid of the pretense and attitude you can find in some of the downtown clubs that try to work the same vibe. He’s created a little slice of the Apple in our own back yard, and for this, we are grateful. You go, Gary.

Hot hook-up: Love on Lansdowne. Looking for a cutie pie, but hate the meat-market scene? Boston’s favorite online matchmakers, MakeOutClub.Com, host " Start! " on Saturday nights at Bill’s Bar. All of Boston’s rock stars have been turning out to flaunt their ink and mingle with the guest DJs, artists, and freaks. Throw in the $1.50 drafts and we’ll see you there!

Hot ingredient: Eggplant caviar. We don’t know what it is. But we see it everywhere. And we like it.

Hot help: Oh, Louis . . . On our past few trips to shopping Shangri-la, we couldn’t help but notice something that wasn’t for sale: the beautiful boys who work at Louis Boston. We already knew the girls were hot, but this year the boys seemed extra-fine. What did I spend that day?

Hot ticket: The Rolling Stones. Line up early: the Stones are starting their next tour in Boston at the FleetCenter on September 2. Remember how hard it was to get tickets last time? Mick might be a geezer, but we’re betting he’s still got a tiger in his tank, if you know what we mean.

Hot brews: Badass beers. " Squash the slosh " is what we say when it comes to beer. No one wants to have to drink 96 fluid ounces of carbo-laden beer just to catch a buzz. Our solution? Stronger beer. Quebec’s fantastic Unibroue brewery has spent the last decade perfecting perhaps the finest Belgian-style beers outside of Europe. With such varieties as the Blanche de Chambly, Trois Pistoles, Raftman, Maudite, and Fin du Monde, among others, these finely crafted and delicious brews offer something to suit everyone. But be careful; some of these puppies weigh in at an impressive nine percent alcohol. Look for them at the Wine & Cheese Cask, or ask for them wherever fine beers are sold.

Hot gift:Juliska glass at Good. Hand-blown in the hills outside Prague, this beautiful glassware makes the most fantastic wedding or house gift. It references six centuries of European glass while integrating contemporary shapes and concepts, making it some of the most unique glass we’ve seen in a while. We especially like the Florence 4, a squat wine or juice glass. Find it at Good (88 Charles Street).

Hot hard-to-find CD: Si*Sé. Formed two years ago by singer Carol C and programmer/DJ U.F.Low, with Michael Mangini from Digable Planets co-producing, Si*Sé combine the vibes of electronica and live instruments. Singing in both Spanish and English, Carol C’s voice is a smoldering evocation of hip. From Spanish jams to hip-hop funk, the group’s eponymous album is very cool. It’s been popular in NYC for a while now, but the sound is just hitting Boston. You can look for the CD at Virgin and Newbury Comics, but it’s usually sold out. You’ll be the coolest kid on your block if you can find one.

Hot hang: The weekend bar scene at Sabur. Gracious host/owner Haris Jusufbegovic nurtures an incredibly diverse European scene on the bar side of his lovely and exotic Bosnian restaurant, located outside Teele Square. Greek, French, Italian, Russian, and more than a few languages that had us guessing are some of what you’ll hear amidst the raucousness of people having a good time. Sabur also features a selection of obscure Eastern European liquors to stimulate the senses. This place is smoky, loud, and boisterous — just the way we like it. And the food is amazing too.

Hot technique: It’s about brine. Especially during the current grilling season, you can’t open a food magazine without seeing multiple references to brining, which simply involves immersing meat — usually pork, poultry, or fish (lamb and beef do not benefit from brining) — in a water solution that contains salt, sugar, and other flavorings. The brining process saturates meat with moisture so that it cooks evenly and retains a nice juiciness, while also imbuing it with flavor. Restaurants have been brining for years, but home cooks are just catching on. Yum.

Hot alternative: A rosé by any other name . . . You’re out to dinner with your sweetie, and one of you is having fish, the other, beef. The inevitable question: red or white wine? More and more restaurants in New York and Boston are featuring bulked-up rosé lists. Especially in the warmer months, rosé can be a wonderfully flavorful alternative — the ones from the South of France are our faves.

Hot trend: Sipping rums Ask experienced bartenders what they see as the next drinking trend, and most will answer " rum. " Whether it’s creative rum cocktails or aged Caribbean sipping rums, you can expect to see a lot more of this sugar-based spirit at your local watering holes. For a grand preview, check out the selection at Central Square’s Rhythm & Spice.

Hot misnomer: Work-at-home consultants

You know them, you love them — heck, maybe you even are one of them. This is what people who have been laid off are calling themselves these days, and the only " consulting " they do involves checking TV Guide for the soap-opera schedule. But if it makes you feel better . . .

Hot hip-hopper: Hip-hop/downtempo producer Cozmopolis. Local producer Cozmopolis, a/k/a Michael O’Connell, has made an art form of relaxing. While most people record shop or chill out in their spare time, Cozmopolis has made it a way of life. He’s mastered the ability to stretch a relaxed vibe over everything he does, and he’s taken his fondness for crate digging from pastime to career. Cozmopolis’s work includes a solid array of relaxed yet seductive hip-hop and downtempo tracks that are heavy with atmospheric beats and intelligent samples. He’s recorded tracks for EMI, Liquid Sky (NYC), and Tone Casualties. Next month, he releases a brand- new 12-inch; in the fall, his full-length album will come out on Tone Casualties. Check him online at www.cozmopolis.com

Hot dish: Tuna niçoise at the Blue Room. Summer incarnate. Number-one tuna, seared and succulent. The finished plate looks like a still-life tribute to natural gardening — and sumptuous eating.

Hot hang: The new Grafton Street. If you haven’t been to the new Grafton Street in Harvard Square, now is the time. This place is packed with an incredibly attractive, multinational crowd; it has fantastic beers on tap, the cocktails are done up right, and the food is pretty damn good to boot. If you can’t get laid here, you can’t get laid anywhere — did we just write that?

Hot read: How to Lose Friends & Alienate People. British " hack " Toby Young’s scathing novel about his disastrous foray into the epicenter of celebrity journalism at Vanity Fair is the must-read of the commuter set. Young’s biting wit and self-deprecating humor will keep you glued to the pages as he reveals how our Hollywood-obsessed culture gets spun.

Hot food trend: Raw foods. Opinions are mixed as to whether this really is good for you, supporters say it makes them feel really good, and actor Woody Harrelson is a big proponent. No, we’re not talking about bong-hits for breakfast, but rather about the raw-foods movement. The craze is bustling in trend-happy Hollywood, where close to a dozen restaurants and cafés now specialize in foods that are never heated above 118 degrees. And no, the typical raw-foods diet does not contain carpaccio or sushi — the movement grew out of veganism, which uses no animal products at all (not even honey!). Look for a raw-foods restaurant to pop up in Boston — actually JP or Cambridge would be more likely locales — sometime this year.

Hot diet: Vive la France! Finally, a diet that just says " no " to starvation and deprivation. We are all about the French diet outlined in The Fat Fallacy: Applying the French Diet to the American Lifestyle, by Will Clower, PhD. Small, whole-food-based meals and no snacking or " faux foods " (low-fat or fat-free foods) are the basics of this habit- and body-changing diet. How could you not try a diet that says " yes " to red wine, brie, and repetitive social eating?

Hot dining destinations: Rooms with a view. Live jazz, swank cocktails, and great food, all enjoyed overlooking the best views of our fair city — you can have it all at both the Top of the Hub and the Bay Tower Room. You’d be surprised how young and hip the crowds are at these hot spots. Catch you up on high.

Hot snack: Cheese and gin at Charlie’s. Late nights are where it’s at at Charlie’s Kitchen in Harvard Square. We love to sit down to an old-school grilled-cheese sandwich and a phat new-school Bombay Sapphire martini as we scope all the hot ladies at the upstairs bar. And don’t forget to check out the selections on one of the best jukeboxes around!

Hot site: Karmaloop.com. Is trudging up and down Newbury Street looking for hip duds becoming more tiresome than it’s worth? Well, Boston-based Web site Karmaloop.com has all the fashion flare of those hip urban boutiques with none of the walking, pushy salespeople, or crowded dressing rooms. Founded in 1999 by former Boston club kids, Karmaloop is dedicated to providing the best in fashion-forward streetwear, with quality clothing lines like Lithium, Triple 5 Soul, and Diesel’s 55DSL. Although it’s a Web site, customer service is highly personalized, and every day a new free CD is available with each order. Karmaloop’s commitment to grassroots ethics and its clear understanding of the youth market make it a top source for urban fashion. Check it out online at www.karmaloop.com

Hot purchase: A thrill for Phil. Masa has worked hard to establish its reputation as one of the most refreshingly inventive restaurants in the city, and no one has worked harder than former chef Phil Aviles. We say former chef because Aviles is now chef-owner of Masa. Mad congrats, Phil.

Hot waft: Calypso Homme. A subtle mix of tangerine, grapefruit, lemon tree, and black currant makes for a fantastic summer/fall scent. Ever since we started wearing it, we’ve had compliments from women and men alike. Look for Calypso’s new, larger store across the street at 114 Newbury Street in September.

Hot buns: Scones at Flour. Joanne Chang’s Flour reinvents the scone. Chang’s scones are so light and flaky that they will wipe away the recollection of the doorstoppers you can find at other places. If you’re too late for scones, don’t hesitate to order a sandwich — everything is delicious. And Chang is a sweetie.

Hot format: One-two punch. Detroit’s White Stipes were arguably the national break-out stars of the past year. Locally, duos like Mr. Airplane Man and Damon & Naomi also invest their talents in the duo format, and it’s music to our ears. The stripped-down rock-duo format allows a greater medium for musical synergy to shine, while at the same time creating a welcome sonic distinction from the traditional guitar-drum-bass format. And in the right hands, two instruments can create just as much cacophony as a full band. Less can be more.

Hot hangover helper: Brunch at Macondo. Eggs Benedict at Macondo: light and lemony hollandaise, a perfectly poached egg, and guacamole on corn bread. Add the French-press coffee, and it’s like you’re in South America.

Hot renovation: Yes, the new Ritz Carlton in the Ladder District is incredibly swank, fabulously modern, and, located among the Sports Club/LA, Blu, Jer-ne, the Loews cinema, and Salon Fontana, it’s also in its own little, self-contained world. In early October, the old Ritz on Arlington Street will re-open its doors after a $65 million renovation. And it wasn’t too shabby to start with.

Hot habit: Delicious denial. Why does an economy slow down? Because people stop spending — but we don’t remember stopping shopping, do you? It’s all about denial in the face of the floundering economy. Shop away!

Hot hair: On the up-and-up. This year, hair was all about the up-dos. Some of our favorites were the rockabilly look as done by Dellaria, and the Asian-inspired coif at DeKwa. The elegant pairing of perfectly swept-up hair and a fabulous cocktail is an art form. Plus, it shows off your neck, which is what the Japanese consider the sexiest part of a woman.

Hot night: Allston rocks. All the glam girls and beautiful boys are cramming themselves into " Love Night " every Thursday at the Common Ground in Allston. Maybe you’ve been to Mod Night, but we hear the real party is on Thursdays, with DJ Brian spinning ’80s tunes and " metal vinyl. " This is not your everyday dance club, and from the looks of the line down the block by midnight, you should definitely get there early.

Hot comeback: Ample Bust. We laughed and we cried through the resurrection of Bust magazine, our favorite bitch rag. The modern feminist magazine was closed down in October 2001 by parent company Razorfish Studios (boy-owned — figures). Founders Debbie Stoller and Laurie Henzel bought back their baby in December. In April, they released the spring 2002 issue with the help of thousands of loyal readers and three raging, celeb-studded benefit parties (in New York, LA, and Austin). Now that the mag’s flaunting its largest readership ever, we hope those Razorfish boys are kicking themselves, because Bust is back, and it’s bigger than ever. And everyone loves a big bust . . .

Hot read: The road more traveled. Post Road literary journal is hot. While the hip literary world has tired of the McSweeney’s-esque take on smug post-irony, real live honest-to-goodness intelligent writing is back in vogue. And Post Road has some local flavor, as Newtonville Books owner Tim Huggins is its recommendations editor, and the latest issue features a review by local poet-around-town William Corbett.

Hot band: Not maybe, definitely. Maybe Baby are Boston’s own little roots-rock supergroup. Vocalist Jennifer Kimball, singer/guitarist Ry Cavanaugh, drummer Billy Beard, and guitarist Duke Levine are all stars in their own right. This is the kind of band that other bands pay to see — catch them while you can.

Hot book: Sarah. JT Leroy’s Alice in Wonderland –like drag-queen adventure Sarah is the hot book of the moment. Though it was published a few years ago, its buzz continues to grow, both in and out of traditional literary circles. And we just heard a movie is in the works!

Hot up-and-comer: Howie Day. Straight from the rock-and-roll hotbed of Bangor, Maine, comes the fresh-faced Howie Day, who, at a ripe age of 21, is signed to Epic Records. Look for big things from this kid — he’s the real deal.

Hot import: Fauchon and Mariage Frères at Louis Boston. We’ve always loved going to Fauchon and Mariage Frères in Paris, so we were ecstatic to see a cute corner of Louis peddling some of Mariage Frères’ fabulous teas and Fauchon’s dry goods. France is hot!

Hot sandwich: The " Blue Ginger, " the Ming Tsai–designed seared-tuna sandwich, is available at Target — er, we mean at the Parish Café. D-friggin’-licious.

Hot time: Panerai 1950 watch at Alpha Omega. Big-face watches are the trend at the moment, and the remodel of Panerai’s 1950 watch is one of the most distinctive we’ve seen. Get it while you can — it’s hard to find in the states! At all Alpha Omega locations. Call (617) 864-1227 for more information.

Hot groundbreaking: Atelier 505. We’ve heard about it for years, and now it’s finally under way. The Machado & Silvetti–designed Atelier 505 hotel brings a Todd English restaurant, a Skinner auction house, Savenor’s, a slew of theaters, luxury condos, and more to Tremont Street. Bet you wish you had bought a place on Milford Street years ago . . .

Hot ride: Silver surfing. It’s not a train, get over it, but taking the new Silver Line bus to downtown is hot right now. It’s fast, it’s cool, and it’s au courant.

Hot denim: Habit-forming. Move over, Seven Jeans; the new denim for the ladies is by Habitual. Louis Boston is the only local outpost where we’ve seen these slim, $170 jeans, so grab ’em fast. Check out Barneys in NYC and Colette in Paris if you’re out of town this fall.

Hot standard: All-American meal at Audubon. Beef is back, and in a big way. We love a nice, juicy, medium-rare burger paired with an ice-cold Sierra Nevada at Audubon Circle near Kenmore Square — buy (and eat) American!

Hot deal: Red Fez’s appetizers. The renovated Red Fez is a hot choice for the kind of appetizers that are so filling that you: a) won’t get sloppy drunk, and b) won’t need to spend money on dinner. Terrific combination plates with all the Mediterranean classics.

Hot shop for south end girls: Map. This new South End boutique carries all the hip lines for boys and now, girls! Who knew you could fit so many goodies in such a tiny space? Check it out now.

Hot dogs: Speed-y links. It’s out of your way unless you work in the wholesale-meat market, but the best hot dogs in Boston are served at a little, disreputable camper plunked down in the middle of Newmarket Square. Don’t let him skimp on the chili or the onions. And don’t think about what’s inside. Anyway, it’s kosher.

Hot morsels: Sushi at Clio. If you are ready to graduate from California rolls, then snag a seat at the new Sushi Bar at Clio. An A-triple-plus for presentation, and for selecting the perfect poisson.

Hot under-sung chef: Felino Samson at Bomboa. For all the bombast at Bomboa, the chef gets overlooked. Kudos to Felino Samson for reinventing consistency and quality at Bomboa.

Hot hand-held food: Bonfire’s fish tacos. Steak houses aren’t exactly a dime a dozen in Boston (well, not a dime, anyway), and Bonfire is the only one to have comparable fun with the non-steak side of the menu. These tacos are sort of Southwestern, sort of new wave — wherever they come from, they are really, really memorable. There are some things that Todd English can do so right.

Hot foodie heaven: Caffe Umbra. The best new all-around bistro in the South End is Laura Brennan’s Caffe Umbra. Great basics, a perfect roast chicken, and a very of-the-moment combination of a what’s-for-dinner and chichi place. Fair prices, great service, and truly outstanding food.

Hot mane: Shellee Mendes at James Joseph Salon. Locks need a lift? Go see the hair-extensions diva. Beautiful, smart, and talented, Shellee will give you the hairstyle of your dreams. And extensions are a healthy way to add body, texture, color, volume, and length without harming your hair. The results are amazing and look natural, but they come with this warning: extensions can be addictive!

Hot cool-down: Ambrosia. It’s so cool that the air conditioning is almost an afterthought. Fresh from a good re-do, Ambrosia is hipper and less self-conscious than before. An inventive-but-not cloying, summery menu of Asian- and Indian-laced entrées.

Hot heel: Here, kitty, kitty, kitty. Women, be tortured by stiletto-induced back pain no more! Kitten-heeled shoes are sexy and comfy enough for long disco nights. A sweet little one-to-two-inch kitten heel adds just enough angle to flex your calf without breaking your back. Meow!

Hot ingredient: Ponzu. What started as a Japanese dipping sauce is now threatening to take over the planet! You’ve seen it everywhere, in every application: ponzu glazes, ponzu vinaigrettes, ponzu marinades, ponzu reductions, etc. It’s crossed over from Asian restaurants to, well, everywhere. Delicious though it may be, beware! Ponzu lurks . . .

Hot Sox: Johnny Damon. Both fans of the game of baseball and fans of hot men in tight pants are thrilled with new Red Sox centerfielder Johnny Damon. The guy is a gold-glove-caliber centerfielder, he’s one of the best lead-off men in baseball, and he’s rock-solid in the community, in the clubhouse, and, yes, in the torso. We’re glad to have you, Johnny.

Hot event: Playboy event at the Place. On Thursday, August 22, the taking-downtown-by-storm nightclub the Place kicks it up another notch by hosting the Playboy Scramble Party. From 5 to 10 p.m., the VIP party heats up with luscious Playmates, the local " Girls of Golf, " and a generally raging good time. From 10 to closing, the party opens to the drooling public. Call (781) 721-5869 for more information about VIP-sponsorship levels; proceeds from the bash benefit local organizations that work with breast-cancer survivors.

Hot read: Our Band Could Be Your Life by Michael Azerrad. Thirteen bands: Black Flag, the Minutemen, Mission of Burma, Minor Threat, Hüsker Dü, the Replacements, Sonic Youth, Butthole Surfers, Big Black, Dinosaur Jr., Fugazi, Mudhoney, and Beat Happening. One author, Michael Azerrad, who got all the key players to dish. One book, chock full of tales of debauchery, infighting, and the DIY perseverance that energized the indie-rock revolution. A must-read for fans of music that matters.

Hot salad: Caesar salad at Limbo. We’ve sampled caesar salads all over the Commonwealth, but this one stopped us in our tracks. Grilled romaine lettuce! In a word: delicious. With just the right amount of dressing, paired with the perfect glass of wine, in a beautiful, sophisticated space. We can’t wait to go back. Limbo, 49 Temple Place, Boston.

Hot hour: Powder Hour at Beauty Mark. Every Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m., Beauty Mark (92 B Pickney Street, Beacon Hill) will host its very own after-work, pre-date Powder Hour(s). If you purchase a mere $15 worth of the shop’s fantastic beauty products, you get to kick back and be made up by the expert staff. Drinks and food will be served, dahlings, lest you fall prey to hunger and thirst.

Hot (and we do mean hot) site: Nerve.com. Too innocent for XXX Monthly, but too wild for Cosmo or Playboy? Check out the online ’zine Nerve (www.nerve.com) for what its editors call a compromise between literary erotica and hard-core porn. This fearless and honest Web site examines and honors one of America’s favorite pastimes and artistic endeavors: sex. It goes beyond the clichés to feature personal essays and works of fiction on topics that can make you blush and get you off at the same time. The articles and columns are entertaining (ranging from a man’s unhealthy obsession with both women’s underwear and garden tools to a girl’s summer-camp discovery of public masturbation) and the photography is, um, stimulating. There is also a personals section to meet other sex-lovers in your area. Whether you’re horny, bored, or just in need of some good sex tips, check out Nerve and be prepared to spend hours searching through the site (our advice: keep a box of Kleenex handy).

Hot organ: Chicken hearts. As American diners became more and more adventurous, it was only a matter of time before something like chicken hearts started appearing on menus. Heck, Chris Schlesinger has a recipe for Buffalo chicken hearts in one of his books, and now Union Square’s Macondo serves a little plate with one skewer of grilled chicken livers and one skewer of grilled chicken hearts, an appetizer that is very popular with the Latin crowd (and aspiring veterinarians). We can think of no better dish to help one get over being jilted by a lover — you can actually eat the chicken’s heart.

Hot tweak: Digging deep. There are few things in life more pleasurable than a good massage, especially when one is really needed. Basic massage, however, generally concentrates on the muscle tissue alone, and for some people, this is not enough. That’s why a form of structural integration called Rolfing (in honor of its inventor, Dr. Ida P. Rolf) is taking the country by storm. As was the case with Pilates, the general public is only now catching on to a method of body therapy that professional dancers have used for decades. Perhaps one reason for the lag in Rolfing’s mainstream acceptance is that the technique can be a little painful, since it involves manipulating the connective tissues that join muscle to bone. Talk about deep! One person we’ve talked to claims to have gained a full inch in height after 10 sessions. Rolfing is now available at the Sports Club/LA.

Hot trend: Spoken-word events. The good news is that the Earfull reading series, a joint collaboration among Newtonville Books, Q. Division, and the Kendall Café that combines author readings with live music, is coming back this fall. This reflects the recent surge in such events: open mikes, performance art, poetry slams, and storytelling are just some of the spoken-word blips on the literary radar screen. And they don’t just happen in bookstore basements, either; these events are going down on street corners, in rock clubs, in cinemas, dramatic theaters, and more. Check ’em out.

Hot artist: Warner’s warped world. The term " comic book " usually inspires images of Spider-Man and 13-year-old boys arguing about superpowers, but for local illustrator Dan Warner, these stereotypes don’t quite fit. In Warner’s comics, trendy bars, one-night stands, working stiffs, sexy chicks, and drunken antics replace superheroes and evil villains. A MassArt graduate, the artist has flexed his illustration skills all over the city, in venues ranging from hip women’s-clothing stores to Editorial Humor. These days, he’s working on his slick, slice-of-life comic series Cocopiazo. The first issue, " A Bright Sunny Day, " is available at all local comic shops.

Hot femcee: Cathy Cathodic invents herself. For local MC (or " femcee, " as she puts it) Cathy Cathodic, the political is personal. With her debut album, Cathodic asserts herself as one of the most honest, sincere, and refreshing MCs that Boston has to offer. Her emotionally charged lyrics — about everything from one-night stands to self-respect — expertly overlay solid beats provided by local producers Hand Cancel and Earthrok. Originally from Buffalo, New York, Cathodic quickly found her place in the Boston scene by playing everywhere from the Milky Way to the Middle East. She currently lends her vocal and rhyme stylings to the jazz outfit Treetonik. Check her out online at www.cathycathodic.com.

Hot shop: Buckaroo’s Mercantile. According to proprietor and alterna-crafter Brooks Morris, Buckaroo’s is a " modern variety store selling retro designs and products that entertain even the most jaded shopper. " The shop features local clothing designers, regional handmade whatsy-whosits, genuine and repro ’50s kitchen items and furniture, and Morris’s own various creations. Where else can you find Audrey Hepburn snow globes, Jesus action figures, and Krispy Kreme halter tops all under one roof? One-stop shopping for modern minds!

Hot pub:Somers-time. Boston’s " Dean of Irish Taverns, " John J. Somers, has augmented his empire with the addition of the lively Kennedy’s Mid-Town pub at 42 Province Street. Kennedy’s is the most upscale of Somers’s joints, as it offers a great selection of ports, single-malt Scotches, wines, and cognacs, all in an elegant, classy setting. As swank as the place looks, we love the fact that they don’t look at you funny if you order a Guinness.

Hot flicks: Video Balagan. The Balagan experimental-film and -video series begins again in September, and will take place on alternate Thursdays in the Video Screening Room of the Coolidge Corner Theatre. Balagan features films and filmmakers whose works are " uncompromised by the constraints of mainstream media, " and which " do not fit into the traditional genres of the film industry. " Last season’s topics included " It’s Not Easy Being Green: An Unusual Look at Our Environment, " " Anti-music Videos, " " Handmade Films, " and a directors’ showcase with a special appearance by Hal Hartley. Visit www.coolidge.org/balagan for more info.

Hot trend: Burlesque mania! Coney Island is everywhere you look these days — that is the price we’ve paid for the burlesque revival. Strippers, jugglers, and all manner of vaudevillians are showing up in the most unlikely places — rock clubs, comedy clubs, fundraisers, TV and the movies, and just plain old parties. In Boston, the Burlesque Revival Association (BRA, natch) has been leading the way by presenting and sponsoring events in all corners of the city, and we love it. You go, girls.

Hot idea: Sharing the road. Stuck in traffic? Just imagine if all those drivers were riding bikes! Every bike on the road is " One Less Car " reducing traffic, noise, and pollution. Support bike riders by driving responsibly, checking the driver’s-side mirror before opening the door, and remembering that bikers have the same rights as motorists. Bike riders, in turn, should not let the giddy sense of wild-pedaling freedom incite them to dart in and out of traffic and through red lights. And cyclists, remember, wearing a helmet ensures that you will live to ride another day — the helmet hair is well worth that price.

Hot band: Jr. Corduroy. Like Wheat before them, Boston-based Jr. Corduroy are making a name for themselves with their heartfelt brand of low-key, reflective indie rock. Their new disc, I Don’t Want to Be Around When You’re Gone for Good, is getting airplay all around the country. Check them out at the Middle East on August 30.

Hot organization: Somerville Arts Council. This group creates real opportunities for artists and brings art out into the community. Its never-ending workload includes: producing the annual ArtBeat multimedia festival in Davis Square; giving grants to groups and individual artists; coordinating the Art Without Walls visual and performance art staged throughout Somerville; running the Illuminations Tour of Christmas-lit houses; running the Switchbox Project, which commissions local artists to paint switchboxes; and producing the Windows Art Project, which allows artists to create installations in the windows of Davis Square businesses. Check out www.somervilleartscouncil.org

Hot boom: Union Square, Somerville. If Davis Square was supposed to be the Paris of the 1990s, then Union Square is the — you know, we’ve always hated those comparisons. What Union Square is is a neighborhood on the rise. Aside from old favorites like the incomparable Irish pub Tir Na Nog, Eat, and the Neighborhood Restaurant, the past year has seen restaurants like Paul Sussman’s Macondo and the terrific Independent settle into ’hood. And there’s talk of extending the Green Line from Lechmere to Union Square in the next few years — right, just as soon as the Big Dig is finished . . .

Hot pour: Martinis at Abe & Louie’s. They’re served in those huge martini glasses, they’re delicious, they’re ice-cold, and they are only $7.50 for a cocktail that’s really the size of two. We hesitate to publish this in fear of a price hike! Oh yeah, and the steaks are pretty nice too.

Hot Rasta vibration: John Brown’s Body. Quite simply, John Brown’s Body are one of the finest roots-reggae outfits in the country, and we’re lucky that they call Boston home. Frontman Kevin Kinsella is a dynamic stage presence and an outstanding vocalist, and the band’s mixed-race make-up and conscious lyrics help them spread a positive vibe wherever they play. Irie, mon.

Hot rising star: Blake branches out. Former Stuff@night cover girl Blake Hazard is coming into her own as a musician. Now married to Jack Drag mastermind John Dragonetti, Hazard has just released a fantastic new disc, Little Airplane (Kimchee), which could be the one that launches her nationally. The album features an intoxicating mix of alterna-country, electronic pop, and atmospheric jazz, and it is creating a buzz on a local scene. Pick it up, and check her out.

Hot concept: Volunteering. Have some time on your hands? Subtract a few TV shows — now do you have some time? Volunteering is a great way to get out into the world, meet people, network, and challenge your abilities. Even we can’t subsist on a steady diet of fabulous meals, excessive cocktailing, and gymnastic sex — our soul needs nurturing too. Visit www.volunteermatch.org to explore your new world of options. Recent possibilities: advice counselor for Elder Wisdom Circle; aid to stray pets in need; bike-a-thon for Bikes Not Bombs; meal servers at the Pine Street Inn; and computer helper at Mushawum Park. And these are just a few of the 600-plus choices for the Greater Boston area. If it feels good, do it.

Hot trend: Brown beverages with fine food. The good folks at the Harpoon Brewery have made it their mission to convince diners that their fine beers are suitable accompaniments to haute cuisine — it doesn’t always have to be about wine. And local chefs agree; here is just a partial sampling of restaurants offering Harpoon products: Blu, Bomboa, Chez Henri, Cuchi Cuchi, Dalí, Dish, Figs, the Four Seasons, Grill 23, Hamersley’s, Jer-ne, Les Zygomates, L’Espalier, Mantra, Masa, No. 9 Park, Olives, Prezza, Rialto, Sage, Sel de la Terre, the Federalist, Tremont 647, and Via Matta — you get the picture. Now get the beer.

Hot series: CRASHarts. CRASHarts, a new division of the nonprofit World Music organization, presents cutting-edge, contemporary performing arts. A few upcoming highlights from its fall line-up: Laurie Anderson at Sanders Theatre on September 28; the Master Dancers of Bali at the Sanders Theatre on October 4; Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters at the Somerville Theatre on October 26; the Philip Glass Ensemble at the Orpheum Theatre on November 2; and Vincente Amigo at Berklee on November 23. Visit www.CRASHarts.org for more information.

Hot caffeine mainline: Oleana overdose. This is the coffee to end all coffees — the Turkish demitasse at Oleana. Think thick, sandy mud, smooth on the palate, with a surprising, velvety finish. Be careful; this sucker will keep you up all night long.

Issue Date: August 13 - 27, 2002