Low-Cal Specials at Haru

• Haru is making it easier for you to keep that resolution to get rid of some of that winter weight AND the one to indulge yourself every once in a while. Check out their new low-cal Shiso Slim skinny cocktail ($6), a blend of Voli lemon vodka, St. Germain, pink grapefruit and yuzu juices, muddled shiso leaf and a splash of soda. And if you need a little nibble, try their Haru-style Sashimi ($15), a carb-free flight of tuna, salmon and yellowtail. Both are available through January and February. 

Nuovo You at Via Matta

• Speaking of a New Year and a new you, Via Matta is teaming up with a neighborhood spa to offer you some helpful tips on staying healthy. Make plans for Nuovo You on January 17, starting with a Core Fusion class at Exhale at 4:15p. After you’re done, Via Matta will be hosting a food tasting workshop from 6-7p. It’s a day of learning about the mind-body connection and how a healthy diet can make all the difference. The cost for Exhale members is $25 ($45 for non-members), and reservations can be made at 617-532-7012.
  

Cooking Class with Lydia Shire

• Towne Stove and Spirits’ Lydia Shire is hosting several hands-on three-hour cooking classes this month, with the next one happening on January 17. The theme is “Explore Asia” and comes complete with a delicious lunch including handmade scallion pancakes, salmon belly appetizers, steamed pork buns, and more. Plus, you’ll also receive a $50 gift card for your next visit to Towne and a homemade catalogue of select recipes. Reserve your spot by calling 617-391-2489.

Dancing with the Devil at Zocalo

• Lovers of spicy foods, get ready – Zocalo is hosting Dancing with the Devil on January 17, a celebration of the world’s hottest Mexican foods. From 5-10p, guests can sample from a $38, three-course pre fixe menu, offering feisty choices like Chile en Nogada (roasted chile poblano stuffed with beef picadillo on almond puree). A special cocktail menu will also be available, with options like the hot-hot-hot Hell’s Manhattan (Jim Beam Devil’s Cut, chipotle infused sweet vermouth, and hellfire bitters) and the cool Cucumber Margarita (Tres Generations reposade tequila, muddled cucumber, fresh lime juice, and orange liquor). Make reservations if you dare at 617-456-7849.

OTHERside Not Closing

• Hipsters, rejoice! As we had reported several months back, Newbury Street’s The OTHERside Café was in danger of closing after a furniture store was looking to move into the space. As it turns out, our sources have discovered that the deal fell through and the OTHERside will be staying open for business! To celebrate, head over there on Sunday at 9p for their weekly Movie Night – check out their Facebook page that day to find out what they’ll be showing.