Hello Kitty Macarons, Fried Chicken & Champagne Thursday, and More Updates

Seasonal Reopenings

In addition to the previously reported reopening of Dairy Joy, now celebrating its 57th season in Weston (331 North Ave.), there are some more seasonal reopenings on the horizon. Riversbend reopens today in the Essex Marina (35 Dodge St., Essex); it’s the restaurant’s second season, and it has undergone some renovations. The menu’s new as well. On Martha’s Vineyard, Garde East reopens on May 11 at the Vineyard Haven Marina (52 Beach Rd.) Chef Robert Sisca was previously executive chef and partner at Bistro du Midi in Boston’s Back Bay.

Cute Alert

The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is making a one-day return to Somerville’s Assembly Row. Catch it on Saturday, May 13, parked across from the movie theatre from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The truck will be selling Hello Kitty-themed cookie sets, a rainbow macaron box (with a “surprise Sanrio character design,” per a press release), a four-pack of mini cakes, mugs, t-shirts, bow headbands, and even bottles of water shaped like bows.

Provided

‘Grit Over Glass’

Bisnow talks real estate with Ken Oringer (Uni, Toro, Coppa, Little Donkey). “I don’t usually want to have a shiny new building with glass windows,” Oringer tells Bisnow. “I get inspired by things that have a little more grit and character.”

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

Trendwatch

Wondering where to find every new poke spot opening in the Boston area? Or Thai-style ice cream rolls, sushi burritos, or fast-casual Mediterranean food? We’ve been using our “storystream” tool to organize all of our coverage of a variety of very specific food items, and you can find all of those storystreams right here. Bookmark that page to keep an eye on Cajun-style seafood, loukoumades, and more.

Rachel Leah Blumenthal/Eater

One Thing You Should Eat (and Drink) Today

River Bar (661 Assembly Row, Somerville) knows how to celebrate Thursday evenings. The end of the week is so close, and what you really need is a giant plate of fried chicken, a biscuit and butter, corn on the cob, and a glass of champagne. $30 for the food; champagne prices vary. Bring a friend or just dive in by yourself; you won’t leave hungry. Bonus: Patio season is here (well, some days), and River Bar’s got a great one.

Rachel Leah Blumenthal for Eater

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Correction: This article originally stated that River Bar’s champagne and chicken deal was $30, inclusive of the champagne, but the champagne is priced separately.